Kilkenny Observer 24 April 2026

Milk prices: good moos

Tirlán commits to fixed cost for the next three months

In a departure from industry norms, Tirlán has committed to a fixed milk price for the next three months, a move it says is designed to offer sta bility to suppliers entering the critical peak production period.

The processor announced a total price of 37.08c/L for March milk supplies and pledged to maintain this level through April and May, sub

ject to unforeseen events.

The decision comes as dairy farmers face a “cost price squeeze” driven by interna tional conflict and high input costs.

Tirlán Chairperson John Murphy said the board chose to set a price ahead of cur rent market returns to provide “welcome clarity and confi dence” for members.

The March price includes

Portrait of the artist as a young woman

Kilkenny artist Aurianna Hanlon – a 16-years old student at Loreto Secondary School – has been chosen overall winner of this year’s 72nd Texaco Children’s Art Competition, taking first prize in the senior 16-18 years age category.

Her winning work, for which she receives a prize of €1,500, is entitled ‘Falling Up’ and is a striking selfportrait created using acrylic paint.

Chairperson of the judging panel, Irish visual artist Pauline O’Connell described Aurianna’s artwork as “an ambitious and compelling self-portrait that challenges perspective and draws the viewer into a shared space, demonstrating both technical control and emotional depth”.

“An exceptional painting that is well deserving of first place.”

Pictured are Aurianna (in pink) with sister Seraphina (14) and parents Eden and Gareth.

a base of 36.58c/L a 1c/L in crease from February and a 0.5c/L sustainability payment.

Tirlán also confirmed it would continue to absorb the impact of VAT rate changes for the remainder of the year and offer a support package featuring rebates on feed and cereal.

While the ICMSA welcomed the sentiment behind Tirlán’s price certainty, the organisa

tion warned that the figure re mains insufficient.

ICMSA Dairy Committee Chairperson Noel Murphy pointed out that the “stability price” is currently below the cost of production on all dairy farms.

Mr Murphy noted that the conflict in the Middle East is exacerbating financial pres sures, stating that the global market is “beating dairy farm

ers” through increased fuel and fertiliser costs.

He called for the immedi ate introduction of an EU Voluntary Reduction Scheme to help rebalance the market and stem “runaway losses” on farms.

Elsewhere, householders are facing paying much more for electricity due to price rises from suppliers and higher network charges, according

Garda’s children targeted online

A Garda’s address and the school his children attend were posted online by per sons involved in the recent fuel blockades, the annual Garda Representative Asso ciation (GRA) conference in Westport, Co Mayo, has been told.

The Garda involved was policing the blockade on the Whitegate oil refinery in east Cork, but is based in Water ford, the conference heard.

The GRA’s general secretary Ronan Slevin said members in the south east were iden tified online, “identified who they were, where they were stationed, where they’re liv ing, where their kids go to school. You can’t get much more detailed than that”.

He said it happened on re peated days over the protest and the week after.

“It’s very hard to have confi

dence in your policing when you realise any actions you take in line with ensuring the safety of the public and the State, that your family are going to be threatened, your children identified,” Garda Slevin said.

He said the GRA would welcome the Garda Com missioner’s support in pur suing these individuals who threaten Gardaí and bring prosecutions against them

through the courts.

Detective Garda Niall Hodgins, GRA Vice Presi dent, called for stronger laws to protect Gardaí from such.

People awee using online tools to attack gardaí “for their own self indulgent views”.

The identities of their mem bers were outed online and circulated. They went viral.

But it went further than that.

“It goes to identifying mem

bers’ private stuff with re gards to their families, where they may live. And indeed, it goes as far as to identify who their children may be. To tar get any public servant in this manner is completely outra geous. And we need tools to deal with this phenomenon.

“Media manipulation has gone on for many, many years. And we would feel that our legislators may be be hind in this particular area.”

to Energy

who has warned that electricity prices could be in creased by suppliers by be tween 4% and 9%.

This would see an annual increase of between €68 and €153, according to calcula tions based on the average household electricity costing €1,700 a year.

Our City one of the 7 Wonders of Ireland !

Kilkenny City has been highly praised as one of the Seven Wonders of Ireland 2026 by Condé Nast Traveller for its culture.

Visit Kilkenny’s Tourism Officer Martina Comerford said Kilkenny was “honoured” to be featured. The city was “proud to be a destination where world‑class festivals thrive alongside centuries‑old heritage”.

Condé Nast Traveller has named its seven wonders of Ireland for 2026, featuring some “less instantly recognisable places to visit”. Among the spots highlighted are Waterford’s Greenway and Copper Coast, Fermanagh’s Lakelands, northwest Donegal, Tory Island and Newgrange. Waterford was praised for having “some of the most beautiful beaches”. empty and underrated Tax cuts ‘on the table’ for Budget

Income tax cuts are firmly on the table for the budget after Public Expenditure Minister Jack Chambers signalled a softening of Fianna Fáil’s stance on supports for workers. Mr Chambers, who was previously more cautious, said personal taxation measures would be a “priority” as last year’s budget “didn’t give workers a break”.

Minister Darragh O’Brien

PHOTO: Mark Condren

Kilkenny literary winners poetic touch

Two talented Kilkenny residents were honoured at this year’s Annual Literary Awards. Daniel Butler and Simon Bourke, both from Johnswell, received joint third prize in the poetry competition among a highly competi tive field of entries.

Daniel, a third year student on the BA (Hons) in English & History, received the award for his poem en titled, ‘Black Jacket I’m Too Big For’, and Simon, who recently completed the Cer tificate in Creative Writing (Fiction), was awarded for his piece, ‘Shampoo’.

Carlow College St Patrick’s was hosting its 14th awards in VISUAL, an event which gathers together in the college literary for a night to recog nise and celebrate the creative writing talent of its students with awards presented for best in prose and poetry writing in the past year.

This year’s awards were presented by the poet Molly Twomey, author of Raised Among Vultures (2022) and Chic to be Sad (2025), an awardee of Arts Council and Ireland Chair of Poetry bursaries. Lecturer in English and Creative Writing Dr Derek Coyle commented on “how dynamic and alive the writing scene is in the South East, and that Carlow College is committed to fostering that talent and to helping writers develop and hone their skills”.

The following Awards were presented in the categories of Poetry and Prose: Poetry Winners:

1 Ann J. Irwin: ‘The Drawer of

Hidden Things’;

2 Aaron Doyle (Kildare): ‘Terms and Conditions’;

3 Daniel Butler (Kilkenny): ‘Black Jacket I’m Too Big For’;

My visit to Lourdes with Rise and Shine

The Rise and Shine Trust, formerly The Irish Pilgrimage Trust, is an independent, self-funding, national, inclusive, and volunteer-led charity that provides supported pilgrimage holidays to guests with additional needs and respite to their families. In particular, their Easter pilgrimage to Lourdes is a week-long life-changing holiday packed with festivities, friendship, and fun. Starting in the early 1970s, the Trust now brings over 400 young people with additional needs on a special holiday to Lourdes every Easter. Rise and Shine is made up of many groups based across Ireland, including the Kilkenny / Carlow section of the Trust known as Group 174. In my case, I recently travelled to Lourdes with Group 94 from Enniscorthy, where I made my first visit to the town as a guest with the group.

Structure and Events:

Groups within Rise and Shine consist of guests, carers, a nurse, group leader, and Priest. The guests are the stars of the show; they’re amusing, friendly, talented, and each are unique in their own way. The carers help their guests with their individual needs and, along with the rest of the group staff, offer guests encouragement, comfort, and companionship, while facilitating the pilgrimage to ensure their guests have the best experience possible.

During the pilgrimage to Lourdes, the groups share an amazing fun filled week together. This includes playing games in the park, bowling, fancy-dress parties, pizza nights, singing and dancing, large celebrations of Mass full of music and colour, the candlelight procession, lighting our own candles, guided tours and visits to Hosanna House, the Grotto and its surroundings. My Group 94 took part in all of these activities, which were great fun and wonderful experiences for all.

Doyle

Reflection:

Guests and volunteers within Rise and Shine often describe this pilgrimage to Lourdes as a wonderful, fun, and life-changing experience, and having had the pleasure of experiencing this pilgrimage for myself, I also agree. This pilgrimage to Lourdes has been an unforgettable and uplifting experience, one I’ll treasure dearly, and I’d strongly recommend this pilgrimage to anyone who gets the opportunity to do it. I am grateful to have visited Lourdes, for the Rise and Shine Trust, and I’d like to say a special thanks to Enniscorthy’s Group 94 for being a lovely and inspiring group, for the kindness and support from staff, and for making my dream to visit Lourdes come true.

Simon Bourke (Kilkenny): ‘Shampoo’. Prose Winners: Margaret Levingstone: ‘On The Edge’;

2 Polly Chapman (Wexford): ‘The Understory’; 3 Joy Redmond (Wexford): ‘The Beachcombers’ and ‘Lover’.

Molly Twomey commended the entrants on the high standard of their work and encouraged all participants to keep persevering and working hard at refining and improving their craft.

During the Q & A she mentioned the importance of reading, how so many of her poems grow out of a response to other poems and poets that she has been reading. The poems she read from her latest collection Chic To Be Sad were powerfully personal, exploring the type of pressures young women experience in today’s society around body image and appearance, among other things.

Carlow College has a long, proud history of supporting students to succeed in their studies and future careers.

The college also has a number of long established international partners.

The college currently offers Level 7 and 8 degree programmes in Arts & Humanities; English & History; Applied Social Studies (Professional Social Care); and Social, Political and Community Studies – with three new undergraduate degrees launching in 2022, including a B.A. (Hons) in Philosophy, Politics & Sociology. Furthermore, the college offers Level 9 programmes in Social Care and Irish Regional History.

Daniel Butler reads his winning entry at the awards. Inset, Simon Bourke receives his awards from poet Molly Twomey

Michael

One in two people hit by home repair scams

More than one in two people (53%) have been affected by home repair or contractor scams, according to new research by Aviva Insurance Ireland DAC (Aviva).

The most common issues include rogue or unregistered tradespeople (16%), contractors who take upfront deposits and disappear (14%) and scams following storm related damage (13%). These

findings highlight the scale and sophistication of risks facing households in Ireland.

The Aviva study, conducted among 1,000 adults across Ireland, examines the types of scams people encounter, how confident they feel in recognising them, and the steps they take to reduce their exposure.

Aviva reports that these trends mirror what is hap-

Power cost may yet throughgo the roof

Householders face paying much more for electricity due to price rises from suppliers and higher network charges, according to Energy Minister Darragh O’Brien who has warned that electricity prices could be increased by suppliers by between 4% and 9%.

This would see an annual increase of between €68 and €153, according to calculations based on the average household electricity costing €1,700 a year.

And think-tank the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) quoted figures from the regulator in a study last week warning that annual household bills may rise by up to €106 a year in the next four years. This rise would be due to higher network tariffs.

Network charges are imposed on electricity bills to cover the cost of building, maintaining and operating the national power grid, covering the likes of poles, wires and substations.

Network costs have risen in recent years, particularly in 2022 and 2023, as the procurement of emergency generation was financed by increased network charges, the ESRI said. These increases in cost have been small, relative to the impact of rising fuel prices, but future network investments will increase costs to consumers. The ESRI paper quoted the energy regulator, the Commission for the Regulation of

Utilities (CRU): “The CRU predicts that annual household bills may rise by €59-€106 by 2029/30.”

Senior lecturer at University College Cork, Dr Paul Deane questioned if network charges would rise by as much as predicted.

He said network charges were only one component of electricity bills, pointing out that other components of bills could go down, reducing overall costs.

Dr Deane said the average annual increase in network charges could be as low as €6 a year, up to €16 a year if a high investment in the network is needed.

But he said it was reasonable of Mr O’Brien to see pricing on bills going up by under 10%.

“We are not going to see increases like we saw during the Russian energy crisis or we are seeing with petrol and diesel prices,” he said.

Daragh Cassidy, of pricecomparison site Bonkers. ie, said wholesale gas prices, used for much of the electricity generated in this country, remained relatively subdued. He agreed with the minister that prices could rise by up to 9pc, adding around €150 to average annual bills.

Electric Ireland, the largest supplier in the market, still has a price freeze in place, Mr Cassidy said. But he said it was possible it would be one of the first to raise prices, with the freeze due to end soon.

Biomethane ‘concerns’

Biomethane industry needs Government commitment and swift action, according to the Irish Bioenergy Association (IrBEA) which is concerned following the publication of

Commission opinion which deemed that the Government’s proposed additional multiplier for indigenous biomethane in the Renewable Heat Obligation (RHO) Scheme was incompatible with internal market rules.

pening on the ground, with increased calls and claims relating to rogue tradespeople. These cases include poor quality or incomplete work resulting in further damage, as well as customers losing money after paying for deposits for jobs never started. This aligns with national Garda data, which shows a 43% rise in ‘bogus tradespeople’ incidents in 2025 compared with

the previous year.

Scam activity often spikes at moments of vulnerability – particularly after bad weather, when homeowners need immediate repairs. According to the Aviva survey, this urgency creates opportunities for rogue operators to exploit.

Additional issues reported include fake or inflated invoices (10%) and bogus

emergency repair workers (10%), both commonly linked to initial contact from unregistered traders.

Digital threats are also increasing. At least 1 in 10 (10%) have experienced cyber scams connected to home improvements, including invoice redirection fraud where payment details are intercepted or altered.

A further 11% report hacked

or targeted smart home devices, showing that households face risks both online and at the doorstep.

Confidence is high – but not universal

While a majority (86%) of people believe they can recognise a scam, 14% say they cannot – leaving a substantial number vulnerable to increasingly convincing tactics.

Law & Order : new partners

Kilkenny based law firm Poe

Kiely Hogan Lanigan Solicitors LLP has welcomed two new partners, Aileen Gittens and Cathy Power. The appointments strengthen the firm’s leadership and legal expertise in surrogacy and immigration law, and property law.

Aileen Gittens has been promoted to Partner at the firm’s ‘Surrogacy, Pathways to Parenthood and Immigration’ department. She will work alongside Annette Hickey as the firm’s established surrogacy practice expands to meet growing client needs.

Since joining Poe Kiely

Hogan Lanigan in 2023, Gittens has been instrumental in advising clients pursuing international and domestic surrogacy on all aspects of the Irish legal process. Having also established the firm’s Immigration department, which she continues to lead, her experience now combines specialist immigration and citizenship law expertise with expertise in surrogacy and donor-assisted human reproduction law.

A native of County Carlow, Aileen Gittens worked as a solicitor in Dublin for a number of years prior to joining the firm.

Cathy Power has been promoted to Partner in the firm’s Property Department. Since joining the firm in 2024, Cathy has been centrally involved in wideranging and high value real estate and property transactions, as well as the property aspects of commercial transactions. These include acquisitions and disposals, development schemes, restructuring, secured finance, residential and agricultural conveyancing and commercial leasing.

From Kilkenny, Cathy trained and worked with a leading Dublin commercial law firm and subsequently

In addition, Julie McEvoy has been promoted to Senior Associate, recognising her expertise and contribution to the firm.

Originally from Co. Laois, Julie practices in the area of general litigation, specialising in medical negligence, personal injuries, and commercial litigation.

* Pictured above, from left: Senior Associate Julie McEvoy, Partner Cathy Power, Managing Partner John Hickey, and Partner Aileen Gittens

Flavoured vape restrictions ‘pose risk’

Responsible Vaping Ireland (RVI), the national association representing more than 3,300 independent vape retailers, has raised serious concerns following the publication of the Public Health (Tobacco Products and Nicotine Inhaling Products) (Amendment) Bill 2026. While RVI supports measures to protect children from access to nicotine products, the organisation warns that the proposed flavour restrictions risk reversing gains in smoking cessation.

The Bill, being debated in

the Dáil, includes a near-total ban on flavours for nicotine inhaling products, only allowing ‘Tobacco’ and ‘Unflavoured’ unless additional names are specified by the minister in future regulations. RVI warns this approach could unintentionally push adult vapers back to smoking and increase cross-border purchases from Northern Ireland, where flavours remain freely available, potentially fuelling an illicit market.

An RVI spokesperson said: “Banning most flavoured

vapes ignores the evidence that flavours play a vital role in helping adults quit smoking. Restricting these options risks driving ex-smokers back to cigarettes and undermining public health.”

The Bill introduces additional measures including:

• Prohibition of advertising nicotine inhaling products (ie. vapes) and nicotine consumption products (ie. nicotine pouches), including online and in-store signage promoting the products.

• Requirements that devices

and components be a prescribed colour and free from graphics or imagery that could appeal to children.

• Restrictions on visible sales, ensuring nicotine inhaling products are kept in closed containers, except in businesses specialising in these products.

Healthy Ireland 2025 found that 50% of all e-cigarette users are ex-smokers, and nearly 23,000 Irish adults successfully quit smoking with the help of vapes in 2024.

worked in Carlow before moving to Poe Kiely Hogan Lanigan.

Anzac Day to rememberedbe in Kilkenny by Great War Memorial committee

“They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun and in the morning We will remember them.”

These words are from the pen of poet Laurence Binyon, written in 1914 dealing with Patriotism and sacrifice. The poem, titled ‘For the fallen’ memorializes soldiers who died in battle World War 1. It acknowledges the profound loss of soldiers lives while also emphasising the nobility of their sacrifices. These words will have a special meaning on April 26 at 3pm when ‘The Kilkenny Great War Memorial committee’ meet to remember Anzac day. Each year in April, Australians and New Zealanders come together to honour all who served and died in all wars, conflicts and peacekeeping missions.

The Ambassadors from Australia and Türkiye as well as the Deputy head of mission from the New Zealand Embassy will be in attendance as well as the Cathaoirleach's and Mayor’s from the counties of Carlow, Tipperary, Waterford, Wexford and Kilkenny. An Honour Guard and the Irish and United Nations Veterans Associations will also be present. The ceremony will consist of prayer, poetry, music, wreath laying, Last Post and Reveille, flag raising and the National anthems of Australia, New Zealand and Türkiye. Refreshments will be served directly after the ceremony at the Home Rule Club on John’s Quay.

ANZAC stands for “Australian and New Zealand Army Corps” and is one of the most important national

celebrations across Australia and New Zealand.

A soldier pays tribute

A Maori soldier stands in the Apex trenches, 30 November 1915

Australian Infantrymen and light horsemen in a trench on Walkers Ridge, Gallipoli. The light horseman smoking in the background and the soldier in the foreground were father and son, 11 Trooper Andrew Powell Yeates, 9th Light Horse, aged 54 and 1103 Private James August Yeates, 3rd Australian General Hospital (AGH)

The Fact Of The Matter

Paul

Hopkins

Lessons for the future in our classrooms

The exceptionally high level of engagement in the national Primary School Survey, with more than 200,000 parents and guardians submitting responses, alongside strong participation from school staff and boards of management, surprised even Minister for Education Hildegarde Naughton.

This significant response marks an important step in ensuring that parents and school communities are central to shaping the future direction of primary education.

As children head back to class after the Easter break, the department will be continuing detailed analysis of the survey data and preparing finalised, school-specific results for each of the more than 3,200 primary schools that took part.

Preliminary findings indicate that 60% of parents

in denominational schools wish to retain that ethos, while 73% of parents in the 276 singlesex primary schools favour a move to coeducation. And 87% of parents in English-medium schools support maintaining English as the primary language of teaching. While these figures provide a national overview, it is the preferences within each school community that will determine future direction. Demand for change, or continuity, will, naturally, vary from school to school. For example, that 40% want no religious involvement – no surprise here, given our growing secularisation –could be challenging going forward, given that not every town or county has, for example, an Educate Together school. Few, in fact. Also, taking religion out of primary schools is moving at “nought miles an hour”,

as only one school has removed Catholic patronage in two years. Children are sitting at the back of the classroom as their fellow pupils prepare for Communion and Confirmation due to the “fundamentally flawed” official process, according to Social Democrats TD Jen Cummins. For the last two years, the number of schools switching to a multi-denominational ethos has stagnated as the Government slows down its response to taking religion out of schools, focusing on other important matters like the shortage of teachers and SNAs and dilapidated rural classrooms.

We must bear in mind that, in some communities, there is a strong desire to maintain existing traditions and ethos. In others, there is a clear desire for change, whether in relation to school type or structure. And these

choices must be accommodated.

Meanwhile, shorter school days and more breaks for students are being recommended by a Dáil committee, which has looked to move the our education system towards a model more akin to Finland.

Members of the Dáil Education Committee say Irish curriculums are “overloaded” and must be reduced, with schools “encouraged to focus on nature and outdoor activities”. A report was compiled after committee members recently visited Finland for a study of its education system, with further suggested reforms around school meals, food education and language teaching.

The report notes Finland’s curriculum has fewer subjects, allows for shorter days and breaks of 15 minutes between lessons. “It allows students to learn –holisti-

cally within shorter spaces of time. It values their recreational time too and the need to reflect and recharge at regular periods during the day,” the report says.

Primary pupils typically spend four to five hours in school in Finland and, while the Dáil committee stops short of calling for a similar school day here, it recommends “serious consideration is given to reducing the overload in the primary and post-primary curriculum”.

The committee’s report also says there needs to be significant reforms around the availability of counselling and therapeutic supports in schools. It calls for a pilot scheme currently offering counselling services to a limited number of schools to be expanded nationwide.

There has been talk and debate the past 40 years about shaking up our school and exam systems. What

lessons there might be, are yet to be learnt.

That said, a good education is much broader than mere schooling. As Mark Twain put it: “I have never let my schooling interfere with my education.”

But here’s something to bear in mind, as you have watched your children in relative carefree mode over Easter: in the developing world a staggering 130 million children — one in 15 — are not in school, with 70% of these being girls, according to Unicef.

This is shocking, given that education improves lives, strengthens families and helps break the cycle of poverty in even the world’s most impoverished communities.

As Nelson Mandela once noted: “Education is the most powerful weapon that you can use to change the world.”

Leas Ceann Comhairle welcomes playground funding for Carlow and Kilkenny

Leas Ceann Comhairle and Fianna Fáil

TD for Carlow-Kilkenny John McGuinness has warmly welcomed the allocation of funding under the Department of Rural and Community Development’s Playground Refurbishment Grant Scheme, which will see important investment in play facilities across both counties.

Under the latest round of funding, €20,516 has been awarded to Carlow County Council for the installation of a multi-use games area (MUGA) in Tullow Town Park, while Kilkenny County Council will receive €17,415 for improvements to Graiguenamanagh Playground in 2026.

Welcoming the announcement, Deputy McGuinness said:

“This is very positive news for communities in both Carlow and Kilkenny. These investments will ensure that children and families have access to safe, modern and inclusive play spaces in their local areas.

“The funding for Tullow Town Park will provide a fantastic new multi-use games area, creating opportunities for young people to stay active and engaged. Similarly, the

planned improvements in Graiguenamanagh will enhance an already valued community amenity and make it more accessible and enjoyable for all.”

The Deputy highlighted the importance of continued investment in local infrastructure:

“Playgrounds are at the heart of our communities. They are vital spaces for children’s development, social interaction and wellbeing. This funding demonstrates the Government’s ongoing commitment to supporting families and strengthening local communities.

“I will continue to work to ensure that Carlow and Kilkenny receive their fair share of funding for community and recreational projects.”

The Playground Refurbishment Grant Scheme is administered by the Department of Rural and Community Development and provides targeted support to local authorities to upgrade and enhance playground facilities nationwide.

Breakfast of champions who care for children

Morning time is such a juggle - making the children's lunches while trying to ensure that they eat breakfast, getting yourself ready while reminding your other half of the day’s activities, munching on a mouthful of cereal while brushing someone’s hair.

It’s not exactly the dream start to the day.

Wouldn’t it be nice to take a breath and carve out a little time to have a chat over your tea and toast, rather than just issuing a list of instructions to anyone who happens to be in the kitchen?

This May, Childline by

Govt not fast enough on fossil fuels, says survey

An Ireland Thinks poll has found 56% of Irish people think the “Government is not doing enough fast enough to cut Ireland’s reliance on fossil fuels”, compared with just 21% who think the Government is doing “too much, too fast”.

The poll, commissioned on behalf of the Environmental Pillar to mark Earth Day on April 22, asked whether the Government was doing enough to deliver its commitment in the Programme for Government “to take decisive action to radically reduce our reliance on expensive imported fossil fuels”.

Commenting on the poll results, Karen Ciesielski, Coordinator, Environmental Pillar said:   “The recent hikes in fuel prices have highlighted the social, environmental and economic vulnerabilities of Ireland’s over-reliance on fossil fuels. It’s clear a majority of people want more decisive Government action to get Ireland off fossil fuels.

“The Government should convene the five pillars of social dialogue urgently to discuss how to support a fair, fast and funded transition away from fossil fuels.”

The 56% majority in the poll includes 62% of Sinn Fein voters, 48% of Independent voters, 51% of Fine Gael voters and 44% of Fianna Fáil voters. The only party a majority of whose voters think the Government is doing too much to get off fossil fuels is Independent Ireland at 55%.

While just over 40% of Ireland’s electricity comes from renewables, adding transport and heating 80% of our energy still comes from imported fossil fuels, compared to an EU average closer to 50%.

Jerry Mac Evilly, Campaigns Director in Friends of the Earth and Environmental Pillar member, said:“For the second time in four years

ISPCC is calling on families, creches, schools, clubs and workplaces throughout the country to take time for breakfast – to sit, listen and enjoy each other’s company while supporting Ireland’s only 24/7 listening service for children and teenagers nationwide.

Children turn to Childline staff and volunteers to talk about family relationships, mental and emotional health and sexual abuse. Many of these callers are repeat contacts who in their darkest moments have then asked for help with suicide ideation.

Please help Childline by

hosting your own breakfast so they can continue to be there for every child who needs them.

Register your school, creche, club or workplace and we’ll send you a fun Breakfast event pack with bunting, balloons, posters and well-being cards. These

have been designed by therapeutic experts at Childline and work as conversation starter cards to encourage check-ins with the children and young people in your life.

*Learn more about ISPCC’s Breakfast initiative, email breakfast@ispcc.ie

fossil fuel prices are causing social, economic and political upheaval in Ireland. The Government’s response has been to spend €750 million to subsidise fossil fuels. Where is the emergency spending plan to help get us off fossil fuels?

“We need more public transport, school buses for everyone who wants them, safe routes to school for walking and cycling, solar for all with battery storage, a scrappage scheme for oil boilers.

“Instead, the Government is prioritising data centres for Big Tech, allowing them to build gas-fired power plants and planning to build a new LNG terminal to import more fossil gas. All of that would lock us in to dirty, expensive fossil fuels for years to come."

Ireland must invest wisely now in climate action, nature restoration, creating a fairer tax system and providing for a just and equal society. The climate and biodiversity crises are interlinked and Ireland also must dramatically increase funding for nature restoration —across peatlands, farmlands, rivers, woodlands, coastal and marine environments, including the passing of Marine Protected Areas legislation. Not only would MPA legislation ensure that vital habitats are protected, it would provide certainty and clarity for Offshore Renewable Energy – providing a win for nature and energy generation and security.

The Environmental Pillar has written to the Taoiseach calling on the Government to convene the five Pillars of social dialogue, employers, unions, farmers, environmentalists, and social NGOs to “to address the social and economic challenges arising from the escalating costs of energy and living while ensuring that solutions are rooted in environmental sustainability”.

The dogs in the

street need

Kilkenny

After many years based in Co. Tipperary, PAWS Animal Rescue has reached the difficult decision that its current site is no longer suitable for the long-term care of the dogs it rescues.

The land at the existing location has become increasingly waterlogged, creating challenging conditions for the day-to-day work of caring for the animals. As a result, the organisation has begun searching for a new base in Co. Kilkenny that will allow the rescue

to continue its work safely and sustainably.

PAWS Animal Rescue is seeking a property with existing dog kennels and accommodation on site, ideally through a lease agreement with the option to purchase in the future once funds allow.

The charity emphasises that it cannot enter competitive bidding situations on the open market.

“As a charity, every donation we receive must go first and foremost towards the dogs and their care,”

a spokesperson said. “We simply cannot justify spending supporters’ contributions in property bidding wars.”

The rescue is particularly interested in properties such as:

An existing boarding kennels business where the owner may be retiring; a smallholding or farmyard with kennel buildings already in place; or a property with established kennels and a small house or cottage on site

On-site accommodation

is essential, as rescue work is a 24-hour commitment, and the dogs must never be left unattended.

The organisation hopes that somewhere in Kilkenny there may be a suitable property currently unused that could provide a future home for the rescue.

“For many dogs, we are their last chance,” the spokesperson said.

“With the right place, we can keep giving them the care, safety and second chances they deserve,” the spokesperson said.

State Aid exemptions must shield farmers

Sinn Féin MEP for Ireland

South Kathleen Funchion has called on the Government to make full use of State Aid exemptions to support farmers through the price shock on fertilisers, ahead of the European Commission Fertiliser Action Plan.

Speaking from Kilkenny MEP Funchion has said:“The current skyrocketing of fertiliser prices due to the US war on Iran in the Middle East

has put additional pressure on farming, and threatens incomes on many farms.

“State Aid rules for the fertiliser sector have already been relaxed, with further exemptions expected.

"The Commission is also planning to widen the state aid exemptions for agriculture, allowing member states to give direct support to farmers," she said.

"The Irish Government

must set out an immediate response plan to make the most of State Aid exemptions and to mitigate the increased prices to protect farm incomes."

The European Commission would also be publishing a Fertiliser Action Plan in coming months and, although it would be welcome to have Commission action to tackle the many issues around fertilisers, includ-

ing the over-reliance on imports, farmers should be given certainty now from the Government rather than wait months in an already highly tumultuous global atmosphere for European action.

“Farmers must be shielded from the worst extremes of the fallout from geopolitical instability, and it is first and foremost the role of the Irish government at home to do so," she said.

As I See It Marianne Heron

Facing up to the anti-ageing industry

When people make remarks about your appearance it’s hard to know how to take them sometimes.

Like the former colleague I hadn’t seen for ages who commented: “I’m glad to see you haven’t had any work done.” Did she mean to congratulate me for not having a facelift or did she mean that I looked obviously wrinkly?

Enough to make me start thinking and lifting –not my face – but the lid on the ballooning anti-ageing industry.

I am not the only one, with programmes like Kathryn Thomas’ Young Forever: The Death Of Ageing, examining the lengths people are prepared to go to look younger or prolong life, which aired on RTE this month.

Nothing wrong with wanting to look your best.

But some of the fashionable trends in fillers and surgery don’t make me want to try to undo the effects of gravity and

the loss of collagen. Thomas admits to being a fan of Botox and has had biannual Botox injections for nearly a decade. After a bit of research, no, I didn’t try having my face injected with Botulinum Toxin, a diluted poison which temporarily blocks nerve signals to muscles which cause wrinkles. I can’t say I am a convert, particularly given the largely unregulated nature of some aspects of the industry. It’s possible to take a one-day course in an aesthetic training agency here and the next day give Botox injections to fill tear troughs or lips or whatever. Treatments don’t come cheap, starting at €350 at a centre near me for a 45minute session. And it seems Irish customers are happy with the results, with the Botox boom here having grown fourfold since 2019.

Employees at AbbVie’s West-

port, Co. Mayo plant, which is the global manufacturing hub for the world’s entire supply of Botox, must be pretty happy too. The plant, where profits grew by 25% last year, employs more than 1,600.

Enthusiasm for some treatments can go too far though, like the appearance of a woman I saw in a hairdressers’ in Italy whose filled lips pouted further than her nose in profile. “Americana,” said my stylist, as though that explained everything. Perhaps it does, the global anti-ageing market, where America is the biggest consumer, is expected to reach $80bn by the next decade.

Face-lifts used to involve travel, to the US perhaps or to South Africa where ‘scalpel safaris’ were popular (you came back with a tan and tales of the Big Five, looking fantastic after the post-op bruises have faded). Now there are a number of cosmet-

Let’s get focused for your exams

Are you studying for exams and struggling to retain what you are learning? This is a common problem that many students experience. There may be several reasons why this is happening. Start with a healthy diet and include complex carbohydrates, fruit and vegetables, nuts and seeds. Include meat, fish and dairy if you are not vegan or vegetarian. Reduce all sugars and processed foods.

Healthy sleep can support energy, mood, and even your memory. Aim for at least 8 hours per night.

Hydration is crucial, drink plenty of fluids, preferably water, but herbal teas are ok too. Lack of hydration can affect memory, contributes to tiredness, and can cause headaches which could put you off your study. Gentle exercise is good in general but is very important to get some time away from the desk and move a little. It is good for you to keep in touch with your friends and not isolate yourself during intense study periods. You could check out Focus Complex by Revive Active. It’s a supplement from an Irish brand, Revive Active which has been scientifically formulated to support cognitive function. There are two supplements in the one pack, a daily cognitive

supplement with 15 active ingredients plus Omega-3 DHA & EPA. I love that they paired the Omega Oils with the botanical herbals and vitamins for optimal benefit. The combination of L-Theanine, Bacopa Monnieri, LCholine Bitartrate alongside the Omega Oils work well together helping you to feel calm and focused so your brain can work more efficiently. You take one Focus capsule and one Omega- 3 capsule in the morning with food. It’s great that younger students from age 15 -17 can take it too, and only have to take every second day.

If you are not sleeping and the usual sleep hygiene tips haven’t helped you could consider Sleep Capsules by Revive Active, I have tried them and they worked very well for me. It contains Chamomile a relaxing and calming herb, Magnesium Bisclyinate to support the nervous system, and Montmorency Cherries, a combination that works together to help you unwind and relax. A good night sleep could be a game changer and is worth working towards achieving. Hopefully these tips will help you, I wish you all the best of luck in your exams.

ic surgery clinics in Ireland. A deep plane facelift which involves ‘gently repositioning and tightening underlying

“Lengths people go to look younger ...

face structure and removing excess skin’ is available at the Eden Clinic. The procedure is done under local anaesthetic, no hospital stay required, 10-14 days off work afterwards is advised, costs €8,500, or you could have a Blepharoplasty (eyelift ) for € 2,000. Some people still travel for nips and tucks, where, in the Czech Republic for instance, prices are about half the Irish rate.

The French have a saying ‘Il faut souffrire pour etre belle’ (beauty is pain), a sometimes dangerous affair we have been flirting with for centuries from the use of toxic lead-based cosmetics for a pale complexion to deadly Nightshade taken for a wide-eyed look. While I have no argument with treatment that helps men and women look and feel better, it’s worrying that some people are turning to fillers and surgery at increasingly younger ages.

As a woman working in fitness, and as someone who has spent years helping women of different ages and stages, I have become increasingly passionate about the need for spaces that truly support women’s health and wellbeing.

That is why I created The Well in Thomastown — a women’s only fitness and Pilates studio built around the belief that exercise should feel supportive, enjoyable and sustainable.

Too often, movement is made to feel extreme, intimidating or all-consuming. For many women, that simply is not what they need. What so many women actually need is a welcoming environment, good coaching, and a way of moving that feels realistic enough to keep coming back to.

At The Well, myself and my team are passionate about helping women find exactly that. We know women’s needs are different, and that exercise can play such an important role in supporting both physical and mental health. It can improve strength, bone health, heart health, mobility, energy, confidence and overall wellbeing, and it matters at every age and every stage. For us, it is not about chasing perfection. It is about helping women build a consistent approach to movement that adds to their life rather than takes from it. At The Well, that might look like strength classes, HIIT, Pilates, cycle classes, or time spent in our recovery space and sauna.

Promoting age anxiety to the point that teenagers in the bloom of youth are using fillers is unacceptable.

Maybe social media – home to selfies and influencers –has a tendency to make us trade too much on our looks, rather than having a holistic view of ourselves as people. It’s personality that gives that inner glow which is attractive in a way that treatments can’t create. We now talk about biological age – how well you are wearing physiologically – and the good news is that you can be a decade or two younger than your chronological age, helped by exercise, diet and sleep and regimes that don’t cost a cent.

We are living longer now, a shame to blight that gift of longevity with prejudice about how ageing looks. I like the quote by US architect Frank Lloyd Wright: “The longer I live, the more beautiful life becomes.”

A fresh approach to women’s fitness

CLAIR WHITTY

Sinn Féin TD Aengus Ó Snodaigh has brought a Bill before the Dáil to provide legal protection for the síneadh fada as it is used in the Irish names of people and there is also a possibility — arising from a precedent set by a case in Belgium —  that the matter could be resolved when that precedent is implemented in cases which are currently being brought by Irish language activists.

The inability of different public bodies within the State, as well as several other well known companies to cope with the ‘síneadh fada’ within their systems has long been challenged by Irish speakers, given the status of Irish as the official language according to the Constitution.

Now, however, a number of cases being considered by the Data Protection Commission may, due to a ruling in a Belgian court on the issue of what are known as diacritical marks, lead to a legal obligation to correctly record names while legislation is also being considered by the Dáil which would have the same effect.

The most high profile challenge to the State on the síneadh fada came almost 19 years ago when Gaeltacht filmmaker Ciarán Ó Cofaigh was in hospital and discovered that this own name was being misspelled on his medical charts.  He felt it was an infringement of his rights and sought rectification under Article 16 of the General Data Protection Regulation(GDPR).

“They are a central, functional element of a person’s proper name,” he said at the time. “My name without a fada isn’t my name.”

While ill, Ó Cofaigh initiated a case against the Health Service Executive on the grounds that the sínte fada in his name were not reflected in his record on its computer system.

Under  Article 16 of GDPR, a person can request that an authority which holds data relating to them correct that data where it is inaccurate.

Ó Cofaigh made a complaint to the Data Protection Commission (DPC) in Ireland, but the ruling made by the DPC was that there had been no interference with his fundamental rights. Those of us who speak and use languages that have diacritic marks (including Irish Gaelic), it’s really a frustrating situation.

Most American registries, including the American Kennel Club and most DMVs, don’t allow diacritic marks (also sometimes called ‘accent marks’). You typically can’t put them on birth certificates.

Diacritic marks aren’t just there for decoration. They supply a lot of information about the word in question, including how certain letters should be pronounced and often which syllables should be emphasised.

Fada, fada ... in Ireland

A Bill before the Dáil aims to provide legal protection for old friend, the síneadh fada

In most languages that use them, a letter with a diacritic mark is considered to be a different letter from its unmarked equivalent, while words that are supposed to have diacritic marks and don’t are considered to be misspelled.

Also, in many languages (and Irish is one), sometimes the only difference between one word and another is the presence and placement of that little mark.

Irish Gaelic only has one diacritic mark: the síneadh fada (SHEEN-oo FAH-duh), or ‘long accent’. It’s also known in linguistic circles as an ‘acute accent’. Most Irish speakers and learners simply refer to it as a fada. The fada is a right-slanting line placed over a vowel (as in the í in síneadh, above). It indicates that the vowel is to be pronounced ‘long’. In the Munster dialect, a syllable with a long vowel is typically emphasised (in other dialects, emphasis is

HOW TO FIND THAT FADA

The fada is a diacritic mark in Irish. It’s the little right slanting line just placed above the letter ‘o’ here in Lón. It can be added to any vowel. However it is not just an addition to the letter. It is a different letter in it’s own right. Thus the difference between the two words. Next time you want to eat lunch – make sure you use Lón. This means lunch. If you use Lon, you’ll be eating a blackbird.

Omitting a fada is more than a grammatical mistake. A missing fada can completely change the meaning of a word.

To get a fada on the keyboard hold down the ‘Alt-Gr ‘ key and press any vowel at the same time. You’ll get a fada on the letter. If you can’t see a key on your keyboard that says ‘Alt-Gr’, it is usually the ‘ALT’ key on the right side of the space bar.

typically on the first syllable, regardless of accents).

Does the reluctance to embrace the fada point to something deeper with how Ireland grapples with its own language?

Labour MEP Aodhán Ó Ríordáin says that Abroad, people spell his name cor-

rectly because “they copy and paste the name that I provide for them”.

But in Dublin, he was recently provided with a nameplate that said Aodhan O’Riordain.

“The one country that I have a difficulty with the spelling of my name, in -

cluding the fadas, is Ireland. And I find that deeply, deeply infuriating.

“The corporate sector, state agencies, and that should be an awful lot more receptive to people being able to use a proper form of their name.”

He thinks the island has traditionally “had a difficult relationship with the Irish language”.

Academic Caoimhín de Barra agrees. The historian and author said that when Ireland was set up as an independent State in 1922, “its raison d’être was that Ireland was different`– different language different culture, different State”. Irish was once spoken right across the island but by the 19th Century had become the minority language, superseded by English.

That process was a long one kicked off by the Anglo-Norman invasion almost 900 years ago and featured a number of events and factors – plantation,

economic upheaval, the Famine – that fill many a history module syllabus.

But when it came to reviving the language, de Barra argues that the fledgling State did not do enough.

“They set it up in schools and didn’t do much more than that but language shift is more complicated.

“The Irish State assumed that the people would revive the language, the Irish people assumed that the Government would revive the language – and nobody revived the language.”

This translates to the fadason-forms issue, he said, as an “indifference” that has often been “the position of the Government”.

Now, he said: “We are part of the English- speaking world whether we like it or not, and all the kind of indifference and sometimes hostility to foreign languages comes out so if there’s an accent it just gets left off.”

Opinion

Why Arts income lottery is far too sketchy Your Money & You

When the Basic Income for the Arts (BIA) pilot launched in 2022, it felt like a genuine breakthrough. Ireland, a country that has long punched above its weight culturally but struggled to support the people who created the art, would give 2,000 professional artists €325 a week for three and a half years. No strings attached beyond a basic eligibility test. The goal was clear: to stabilise precarious careers, protect mental health, keep talent in the country, and enrich public life through more creative work.

The results were impressive. Recipients reported real career progression and significantly improved wellbeing. A costbenefit analysis commissioned by the Department of Culture found that for every euro spent, society gained €1.39 back through increased public engagement with the Arts, higher tax revenue, and reduced welfare costs. Minister for Culture Patrick O’Donovan

John Ellis

was right to call it a “groundbreaking scheme” when he made the programme permanent in Budget 2026. Yet, the very design that made the pilot simple is now revealing serious flaws. The random lottery system used to choose recipients, drawn anonymously from thousands of applicants to guarantee geographic, gender and artistic balance, has created exactly the opposite of the fairness it was meant to deliver. It has split the artistic community into a lucky minority and an excluded majority. Artists who contacted the Department of Culture under freedom-of-information requests described the outcome in stark terms. One wrote that the pilot had caused “segregation in the artistic community”. Another highlighted the unfairness of a working artist holding down full-time non-Arts employment while watching a housemate on BIA appear to step back from cre-

ative practice entirely.

The lack of meaningful performance monitoring during the pilot, they argued, allowed some to treat the payment as an unconditional top-up rather than genuine support for active artistic work.

The department has promised annual audits, surveys and evidence of output, with the threat of repayment for those who cannot demonstrate continued professional practice. Yet, the core problem remains the lottery itself.

As my cousin Catherine Barron, a professional visual artist, points out, monitoring artistic output is genuinely difficult. Creative work is not a production line. Artists develop at quite different rates. Many take two or three years (sometimes longer) to produce a body of work, and experimental research, reflection, failure and artistic block are hard to evidence. Ireland already has a meritbased system through the Arts

Council for bursaries and other projects.

Random selection may avoid accusations of favouritism or elitism, but it cannot distinguish between the struggling full-time professional who needs the safety net most and the artist who already has other income or is less committed. Nor does it reward or incentivise the very dedication

‘€325 a week for three and a half years...

the scheme claims to foster.

The result is an unlevel playing field that leaves many of the sector’s most dedicated voices still juggling work shifts or teaching jobs while a randomly chosen neighbour gets three years of breathing space.

The objectives of the BIA remain sound. A well-designed basic income could deliver real benefits: more collaborations, more exhibitions, and more opportunities for the public to experience Art that reflects contemporary Ireland in all its diversity. But a lottery is too blunt an instrument for such a delicate task.

The government now has the chance to learn from the pilot.

With applications for the 20262029 round now open and the scheme made permanent, the priority must be reforming the selection process.

A rolling annual system, letting 2,000 artists leave the scheme each year and bringing in 2,000 new ones, would give more people a fairer shot

instead of locking artists out for three years at a time.

Expanding the number of places beyond 2,000 as budgets allow would reduce the artificial scarcity that fuels division and the uncomfortable sense of an elite within the community. Greater trust in artists, combined with a public register of recipients and audits run by those who understand the creative process, would also help weed out any chancers “while respecting the unpredictable nature of artistic work”. We, the public, who ultimately fund the scheme, deserve to see it work as intended not as a lucky dip that divides the arts community, but as a stable platform that lifts it. The BIA is too important an idea to be undermined by poor design. Reforming it now, while the pilot’s lessons are still fresh, would turn a promising experiment into a genuinely worldleading policy. john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633

Celebrating 60 years of Rothe House

Photos: Vicky Comerford

This past Friday, Parliament Street felt a little more vibrant than usual. While Rothe House has been standing since 1594, last week marked a milestone of a different era: the 60th anniversary of its opening to the public. It is hard to imagine today, when strolling through the meticulously restored build

members of the Kilkenny Archaeological Society (KAS). In y stepped in to save the property from dereliction, embarking on a restoration project that was, at the time, radical and unfashionable.

Many in attendance at last week’s event had been at the opening in 1966, others were the children and grandchildren of the craftspeople and committee. The guest of honour was Senator Malcolm Noonan who spoke of the importance of Rothe House and congratulated all who have kept it going over the last 6 decades.

Rothe House Trust also launched a new Five Year Strategy at the event which

looks forward to a continued period of growth and community engagement. Central to the anniversary is the new free exhibition, "Rothe House 1966-2026: The Restoration." For anyone who calls Kilkenny home, this is a must-see, telling the inspiring 20th-century story of how a community pulled together to save its own history. A touching video captures the recollections of local people, and the exhibition displays archival material, letters and photographs.

The "Rothe House 19662026: The Restoration" exhibition is now open to the public. Admission to the exhibition is free and is open 10am - 5pm daily.

Anne Lannon, President Kilkenny Archaeological Society, Cllr John Coonan, Ann Mulrooney, Chair Rothe House Trust, Valerie O’ Sullivan, Manager of Rothe House, Cllr Fidelis Doherty.

Margaret and Maeve Kearney, granddaughters of Margaret ‘Daisy’ Phelan

Alan Slattery, Cllr John Coonan, Senator Malcolm Noonan, Ann Mulrooney, Chair Rothe House Trust

Strawberries thrive when grown in raised beds or hanging baskets, keeping fruit clean and off the ground. A simple approach that helps protect your crop - because strawberries are a true Irish garden favourite

By the Horticulturists at Tirlán CountryLife

planning, you can create a space that looks beautiful while supporting biodiversity.

At Tirlán CountryLife, we love helping gardeners create thriving, diverse gardens. Here are our top five essentials to focus on this spring.

1. Edibles – Fruit & Herbs Edible plants are not only practical but also bring structure and seasonal interest to your garden. Fruit trees, bushes, and herbs provide colour, fragrance, and, of course, delicious harvests.

Top picks: Apples, pears, plums, blackcurrants, and herbs like

5 Spring essentials thriving, di

Based in Tirlán CountryLife Ballyhale, Mary Brennan and the horticultural team bring real expertise to the shop floor, always on hand to offer advice, answer questions, and help you make the right choice for your garden.

heights and bloom times to create depth and a continuous display. Tirlán experts can help you plan planting schemes that combine structure, colour, and seasonal rhythm.

3. Something for the Bees – No-Mow Zones & Pollinator-Friendly Plants

Supporting pollinators helps your garden thrive and benefits the wider ecosystem. Leaving small areas of lawn unmown and planting nectarrich flowers attracts bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects.

Early bloomers: Crocuses, hellebores, and lungwort provide essential spring food. Wildlife-friendly natives: Hawthorn, buddleia, and wildflowers encourage pollinators throughout the season.

Tip: A dedicated pollinator patch doesn’t have to take up much space and adds natural texture and interest to your garden. Tirlán CountryLife can suggest species that are both pollinator-friendly and visually appealing.

4. A Statement Tree

A central focal tree adds structure, scale, and yearround interest. Choosing the right specimen ensures it complements surrounding planting rather than dominating it.

Top choices:

• Davidia involucrata (Handkerchief Tree) –spectacular spring flowers.

• Acer davidii ‘Viper’ (Snake Bark Maple) – textured bark adds winter interest.

• Cercis canadensis ‘Heart of Gold’ (Eastern Redbud) – brilliant foliage and spring blooms.

Tip: Position your statement tree where it can be admired and provide structure without overcrowding other plants. Tirlán horticulturists are happy to advise on species selection, placement, and care for lasting impact.

5. Water Feature – Wildlife & Visual Appeal

Even a small pond, birdbath, or mini wetland can transform a garden. Water attracts birds, amphibians, and insects while adding movement and seasonal interest.

Tip: Choose a location that receives a mix of sun and shade, and keep the feature proportionate to the space.

Tirlán CountryLife can advise on low-maintenance designs that enhance wildlife and complement your garden aesthetic.

Bring It All Together

By combining these five essentials you can create a garden that is diverse, resilient, and visually rewarding. Thoughtful planning ensures that your plants complement each other, support wildlife, and continue to develop beautifully year after year.

Visit Tirlán CountryLife Ballyhale or Castlecomer for Expert Advice

Whether you’re planting fruit, flowers, pollinator patches, or a statement tree, Tirlán CountryLife is here to help. Pop in to one of our stores or explore our range online at Tirláncountrylife.ie for guidance, quality plants, and everything you need to make this spring your garden’s best yet.

sentials for a verse garden

Kilkenny County Council praises employee Brian Hayes’ leadership in Disability Rights

When Brian Hayes walks into a government meeting, he is not there as an observer. He is there to make sure people with intellectual disabilities are heard at the highest levels of decision-making.

Brian, Chair of the National Platform of Self-Advocates, has recently been appointed to lead the Disabled Persons Organisation (DPO) Group under the Department of Children, Equality and Disability. The group is designed to give organisations run by disabled people a direct and ongoing role in shaping national policy.

In his work, Brian has already been part of highlevel discussions with senior decision-makers, including attending meetings with the Taoiseach and Government Ministers, where he brings forward the lived experience of people with intellectual disabilities.

For Brian, the appointment is part of a much bigger mission, “What we are working for is justice, not charity,” he said.

The National Platform of Self-Advocates is Ireland’s only national organisation run by and for people with intellectual disabilities. Its members speak for themselves, rather than relying on professionals or service providers to represent their views.

Over more than a decade as Chair, Brian has helped grow the organisation from a small grassroots movement into a national body with over 1,000 members. In that time, he has brought their experiences into key policy discussions, including work with the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission and contributions to government con-

sultations on personalised budgets and employment supports.

He has also played a role in shaping Ireland’s newly published National Human Rights Strategy for Disabled People (2025–2030), working directly with officials to ensure the voices of people with intellectual disabilities were reflected in the final document.

Brian also acknowledged the support of his employer, Kilkenny County Council, “The flexibility of my role in work has been key to attending meetings and carrying out my advocacy work at a national level.”

His new role chairing the DPO Group marks a sig nificant step forward for the wider disability rights move ment. Unlike one-off consultations, the group is intended to provide a structured and ongoing channel between the Government and Disabled Persons Organisations. That work often happens behind closed doors, in long meetings and detailed policy dis cussions. But Brian believes it is essen tial, commenting, “People need someone in those rooms who under stands their lives from the inside.”

As Ireland continues to reform its approach to disability services, the shift from charitybased mod-

els to rights-based policy remains a central issue.

For Brian and the National Platform, the goal is clear: a system in which people with intellectual disabilities are recognised not as recipients of care but as full citizens with equal rights. And with a seat at the table, including at the highest levels of Government, he intends to make that case heard.

Lar Power, Chief Executive of Kilkenny County Council stated: “Brian’s appointment is a testament to his leadership and lived experience, and we are extremely proud to have him as part of the

Launch of the Strategy

Brian Hayes pictured in Kilkenny County Council

Opinion

Lady Lavery, my dad and the paranormal Furthermore Gerry Moran

“Everyone, almost without exception, had some kind of ‘spiritual’ or paranormal experience, and was able to talk about it there.”

I am quoting my fellow columnist Judith Ashton, The Kilkenny Observer, March 27 last. Judith was working at the first Mind Body Spirit Festival in 1977 at Olympia in London where she addressed hundreds of people many of whom spoke about their ‘spiritual’ or paranormal experience, often for the first time.

Now you’d never find yours truly at a Mind Body Spirit Festival (beer festival, yes) as it’s not quite my scene. That said, many years ago, I held a séance in my house late one night when I brought a few drinking buddies home after the pub had closed. Not exactly the brightest idea I ever had and for sure not the best of times to try and make contact with the ‘spirit world’

especially when spirits had been consumed by some of the company.

Suffice to say that no contact was made with the other world – with the neighbours, yes, thanks to the loud laughing and guffawing of my guests, who weren’t taking proceedings seriously, and I eventually had to cast them out into the darkness.

Be that as it may, I did have a paranormal experience back in December 1972. It’s Tuesday, I am asleep in my flat which I am sharing with an old school friend, Christy Murray. It’s maybe one or two in the morning and I am awoken by a slight pressure on the back of my hand. I open my eyes, look up and see a lady hovering a few feet above me; she looks for all the world like Lady Lavery on the old £50 note (for those of you who remember) her face, sad and forlorn looking, enclosed in a headscarf.

I am not shocked or scared just a little puzzled and perplexed. Wide awake now, I look up at this image for several seconds half expecting it to disappear or fade away. It didn’t. That’s when I reached up to touch this face gazing down on me. Then it vanished.

Believing this to be a message or omen of some sort I leapt from my bed. shook Christy from his sleep, explained what had happened and how I thought this was some kind of warning or other. We methodically check taps and all things electrical that might cause fire or flood. (Christy will verify this – and if he doesn’t I’ll never play the ukulele with him again. But that’s for another day). I genuinely felt something was not right but finding nothing amiss we went back to sleep and I forgot all about it. The following Sunday night

I am watching television in that same flat when my brother phones to say our dad has had a massive stroke and we need to head home to Kilkenny immediately. Our father was in a coma when we arrived late that Sunday night; he never regained consciousness and died the following Sunday.

I made no connection between my father’s death and that ‘apparition’, for want of better word. It was only when talking to my mother and asking if there had been any signs or warnings of my dad’s impending stroke that she recalled he’d had a profuse nose bleed that Tuesday night of my ‘visitation’, a sure sign that all was not well with Jim Moran.

In hindsight I reckon the Lady Lavery episode was the warning I always felt it was but I was checking in the

wrong place; having inspected the flat that night from top to bottom it never occurred to me to check things out at home. Not, of course, that it would have made any difference but one never knows. And that, for what it’s worth is Gerry Moran’s paranormal experience.

Oh, an interesting postscript, some years later I’m back home in Kilkenny when, late one night, that same lady appeared once again in my bedroom just a few days before my uncle, my father’s brother, passed away! Make of it all what you will.

Choices Shape Your Future

By Judith Ashton

Loneliness and the bus keep communities connected

Loneliness, social isolation and the war in the middle East. Everything is connected. We are all inter-dependent and I always think of Edward Norton Lorenz’s “Butterfly Effect” or Chaos Theory. A small action like a butterfly flapping its wings in one place can cause massive eruptions in another part of the world. If a butterfly can have an impact, how much more could a Middle Eastern war disrupt our lives?

We must all come to terms with the fossil fuel crisis and the pump price hikes and look to ways to reshape our lives in the future. This crisis is focussing us all on renewable, sustainable energies and away from our reliance on oil. We need to quickly switch to new energy sources.

Last week I went to Mullinavat for a packed community meeting regarding the proposed withdrawal of Expressway Bus Route 4: Waterford to Dublin Airport via Mullinavat, Ballyhale, Thomastown, Gowran,

Royal Oak, Leighlinbridge, Bagnelstown ,Carlow. There had been rumours of this back in January according to one participant. Apparently, it is an uneconomic service. As I pointed out at the Mullinavat meeting: the decision to pull this route was made months ago before Trump kicked off and surely with the ever-increasing price of fuel, NOW is the time to embrace a fully functioning public bus service. Sustainable rural transport is crucial right now, for so many reasons. For many people, this route it is an essential lifeline beyond their rural communities; and it was sobering and impactful to hear from so many individuals just how much their lives depend on Expressway Bus No.4. Stories were told of the potential disruption to education by students travelling to colleges in Waterford or Carlow; for others, Expressway Bus 4 is essential for getting to

work, school, hospital, the airport, for social outings and recreational activities. A man who goes to the Thomastown Men’s Shed twice a week relies on this bus to connect with others socially. A 16-year-old expressed concern that if the service is discontinued, she will be stuck in Mullinavat on weekends with no way to visit friends. Powerful stories indeed!

J. McHugh PhD (Maynooth) and Christopher Swader PhD (Lund) in a research paper for The European Commissions Joint Research Centre Feb 2025; concluded that Ireland has highest levels of loneliness of all European countries. They cite many factors that are responsible for their findings including : aging, migration and social infrastructure.

“With respect to rurality, improving transport and opportunities for social connection in rural areas would alleviate loneliness associated with rurality. Given the high proportion of Irish people living rurally

and in low density areas, it is worth considering the role of geography in loneliness and how best to mitigate it. Transport is critical for those living in low density rural areas to remain physically connected and to ensure social connectedness.”

Unsurprisingly, their research investigates loneliness as a major public health issue and a risk factor

“Every bus route is a lifeline connecting communities

for higher rates of all -cause early mortality, functional decline, cardiovascular issues, depression, suicidality, stress and poor sleep.

To quote Hildegard Naughton, “Loneliness and isolation affect all people of all ages and from all walks of life. The negative effect on physical and mental health issues cannot be underestimated.

Ireland had a loneliness problem before the Middle East war; (exacerbated by Covid,) and it will be increased by reduction in rural transport lifelines.

Is a new Cork to Limerick motorway starting in 2027 estimated cost of €1 billion plus really necessary given the world situation? Surely governments need to invest in the most efficient sustainable, public, transport links?

Building healthy communities requires meeting the needs of all individuals and focusing on broad goals that prioritise both mental and physical

well-being. By making smart investments at the grassroots level, future expenses for health, education and social services can be reduced, while also encouraging young people to stay in their communities and preventing the loss of talent to other countries.

At every level—mind, body, and spirit—connection and well-being are fundamental needs for everyone and physical transport connectivity: Expressway Bus Route 4 is an essential part of life here in the S.E. Every single decision we make has consequences. Every decision we have ever made leads us to our present reality. Major decisions shouldn’t be made hastily since they impact many areas of our lives and are hard to undo if outcomes are negative.

Please write to: National Transport Authority, Haymarket House, Smithfield, Dublin 4 re why this is such an important issue.

Minister Jerry Buttimer officially opens N77 Ballyragget road safety Improvement Scheme

More than 300 children in Ireland are currently waiting for life-changing wishes as Make-A-Wish Ireland launches Wish Week 2026, supported by its4women, calling on communities across the country to come together and help meet growing demand. The figure comes as the charity continues to expand its reach, granting 229 wishes in 2025, its highest number to date, made possible through

the generosity of the Irish public and corporate partners.

The nationwide fundraising campaign will run from Saturday, April 11th to Friday, April 17th, with a dedicated Donation Day on Friday, April 17th, when volunteers will be out in force in towns, shopping centres and communities across Ireland.

Now in its 18th year, Wish Week will shine a light on the power of a wish, bringing

communities together to support children living with critical medical conditions and their families.

In 2025, Wish Week raised €245,000, helping Make-AWish Ireland increase the number of wishes delivered from 200 to 229. This year, the charity is aiming to raise €265,000 to continue growing the number of wishes granted annually.

Make-A-Wish Ireland has

granted over 3,600 wishes since 1992, creating moments of joy, strength and hope for children living with life-threatening illnesses.

Paddy Deegan Kilkenny

Senior Hurler and Make-AWish GPA Ambassador said:

"I'm very proud to be a MakeA-Wish Ambassador. The work they do for sick children in Kilkenny and the rest of the country is incredible. They have collections all across the country for Wish Week 2026. Any support from the public at these locations or through online donations would be incredible and will help to grant magical wishes in the region during 2026."

David Burns, Head of Fundraising at Make-A-Wish Ireland, said: “Wish Week is a moment for communities across Ireland to come together and make a real difference. A wish can bring hope, strength and joy to a child and their family during incredibly difficult times. Thanks to the generosity of the public and partners like its4women, we were able to increase the number of wishes granted last year, but with over 300 children currently waiting, the need has never been greater. We are asking people to

support their local volunteers, donate what they can, and help us reach even more children this year.”

Kerry Beckett, Marketing Manager at its4women, said:

“Over the past year, our partnership with Make-AWish has shown us just how powerful a single wish can be. We’ve seen first-hand the joy and lasting impact these moments create for children and their families, and it’s something we’re incredibly proud to support. As we come on board once again for Wish Week 2026, we’re excited to help build on that momentum and reach even more children in need. We would encourage everyone to get involved, whether by donating or spreading the word, and be part of making more wishes come true.”

Make-A-Wish Ireland receives no government funding and relies entirely on public donations and corporate support, such as its4women, to continue to provide vital services for families. Wishes are delivered as an integral part of a child’s treatment journey, helping to improve emotional wellbeing, create lasting family memories, and give children something positive to focus on during challenging times.

Photo courtesy of EGIS

Representatives of Kilkenny County Council, Catherine Calllaghan TD, Minister Jerry Buttimer

Major breakthrough resolves Castlecomer, Clogh, Moneenroe water crisis

Uisce Éireann announces a solution for Castlecomer Water Supply

Uisce Éireann announced a major breakthrough in resolving Castlecomer’s ,Clogh and Moneenroe’s long-standing water supply issues at briefing this week

For years, businesses and residents of Castlecomer and surrounding areas have struggled with poor water quality, limited supply, and halted development due to these constraints.

At a briefing this week in Kilkenny County Council, Uisce Éireann management, led by John Dempsey, revealed a preferred solution for the area. After a comprehensive review, they confirmed a plan to supply water from the Radestown via the Muckalee reservoir. This

solution, first proposed by Cllr Pat Fitzpatrick and supported by his colleagues Cllr John Brennan and Cllr Maurice Shortall, will provide a sustainable water source for the next 100 years. It will allow for critical future development in the Castlecomer area including, housing, businesses to expand with new businesses coming to the area and greater opportunities for the local community, sporting organizations and schools.

While the exact route is still under discussion as to whether the pipeline will run via Gossy Brennan’s on road or through land, the decision marks a turning point. This is a critical step

for the area ensuring adequate water quality, pressure, and volume to support its future growth.

Cllr Fitzpatrick, together with his colleagues, Cllrs Brennan and Shortall, who have championed this cause, warmly welcomed the news. "As a Cllr, I’m excited about the opportunity to see more homes and businesses allowed to flourish in Castlecomer. This will provide a great opportunity for the local community and future development in the area's Cllr Fitzpatrick said”.

Uisce Eireann must now engage with residents and landowners along the route and proceed to planning and deliver this solution as quickly as possible

Castlecomer, a place of strong community spirit

The One Stop Business Centre

The One Stop Business Centre in Castlecomer, Co.

Kilkenny is a lively, downto-earth hub where business ideas get a proper chance to take off. Located just outside Castlecomer on the Kilkenny Road, it offers a mix of office and light industrial spaces suited to everyone from enthusiastic start-ups and solo entrepreneurs to growing small businesses and hands-on light manufacturing teams. One of its biggest strengths is its location. It’s close enough to Kilkenny city, Carlow, Portlaoise, and even Dublin for meetings, deliveries, and networking, but far enough

away to escape the traffic, noise, and general rush of bigger urban areas. The Kilkenny Ring Road is only about ten minutes away, and Dublin is just over an hour down the road, making it surprisingly well connected without the daily hassle. Inside, the centre keeps things practical and flexible. There’s plenty of parking (no city-centre parking stress here), useful on-site facilities, and a range of unit sizes that can grow alongside your business. It’s the kind of place where you can start small, test ideas, and expand without having to uproot everything later. There’s also a friendly, informal community feel

throughout the centre. Different businesses work side by side, often exchanging advice, contacts, and the occasional bit of encouragement over a quick chat in the corridor or car park.

Overall, it’s a straightforward, welcoming base where businesses can focus on getting things done, growing at their own pace, and enjoying a more relaxed working environment.

Comer goes to Hollywood Comer Goes to Hollywood is set to bring a sparkle of glamour, laughter and a whole lot of local fun to Castlecomer!

Hosted by Erin’s Own GAA, LGFA and Camogie Club, this lively community fundraiser

takes place in the Avalon House Hotel on 3rd May, and promises a night where Hollywood meets homegrown talent in the best possible way.

Local performers will step into the spotlight to recreate iconic scenes from famous movies and TV shows, adding their own comedic twists, dramatic flair and plenty of Castlecomer charm. Expect big laughs, surprise moments, catchy music and maybe even a few “Oscar-worthy” performances from familiar faces you didn’t know were so dramatic!

The event isn’t just about entertainment—it’s about bringing the community together in a joyful celebration

of sport, creativity and teamwork. All funds raised go directly towards supporting Erin’s Own club and helping players of all ages continue to thrive and enjoy their games.

Over the years, Comer Goes to Hollywood has become a much-loved highlight on the local calendar, and this year looks set to be bigger and brighter than ever. So dust off your imaginary red carpet outfit, gather your friends and family, and get ready for a feelgood night full of fun, laughter and local pride in Castlecomer!

Road Resurfacing Works and Drainage Update

Cllr. John Brennan commended the road

resurfacing works, drainage works, and updates. He reiterated to the public that the following roads in the Castlecomer Municipal District were included. Road surfacing and drainage works commenced on Monday, the 16th of March, and are scheduled to continue until December 31st, 2026. Road works include: Massford Bridge to Moneenroe, Maryville Castlecomer, Chapel Lane Moneenroe, Castlewarren to Freneystown, and Knocknadogue. Works are partially complete, and ongoing progress is in place regarding the road resurfacing and drainage.

By Gerry Cody

The Kilkenny Observer recently attended a book launch for Clogh Writers group. Talk on the night was about how wonderful the town of Castlecomer had developed in so many areas.

One such venue was the Castlecomer mines museum. And of course one cannot mention the mines without speaking about Seamus Walsh. At the time of his death, news spread quickly around the north Kilkenny town of Castlecomer and indeed the county of Kilkenny. A poet, tour guide, historian and promoter of The Comer mines, he was certainly one in a million.

Seamus was the epitome of a Renaissance man, a gifted story teller and writer, a poet, a musician and singer. He made it one of his life’s ambitions to make sure the stories of the miners were kept alive. His books “In the Shadow of the Mines” and “Coal in the Blood” will provide a window into the lives of coalminers for future generations to come, a wonderful gift. He was instrumental in making the dream of having a coal mining museum

Seamus Walsh left a wonderful legacy

John Delaney and Seamus Walsh at The Deerpark Mines Seamus Walsh at a stopping point on the way to the mines where miners stopped for a prayer each morning

in Castlecomer a reality. He gathered artefacts and information, as well as being one of the leading fundraisers and advocates of the project.

Of course, we are so thankful for the years of volunteer service that he gave to the park, he was a member of the Discovery Park Board for many years. He attended meetings and gave of his time so generously. Another event he cared deeply about was the annual National Heritage Week tour of the Deerpark Mine. Each summer he would take people to visit the mine and paint a vivid picture of a day working at the mines. As usual people were hanging on every word, he brought you back in time and could put you in the shoes of those miners.

When Seamus died, Castlecomer lost one of its best sons, but thanks to his talents and passion we have so much to remember him

and keep his spirit with us.

Deerpark is of course where the coalmines were situated and although I had the comfort of travelling by car, I wondered about the boys and men who walked the two miles, day and night in all kinds of weather to spend eight to ten hours in the darkness of the mines.

No more than myself, if you were not down the mines, you cannot understand what it meant.

A lot of the time the work space was in an area that was five feet high and maybe three feet wide. Think about that. Think of the air circulating. Or lack of. Think of the coal dust. Think of the possibility of the roof collapsing - a fear in the minds of every miner, every day.

Apart from the misery, one cannot but mention the camaraderie of the miners.

Also, the fact that at that time, with the population of ‘Comer at 1,200, 600 worked at the mines. Boys and men

A Gathering of Miners

By Seamus Walsh

As we gather here in silence

Sure I’m thinking of the times Where men for generations worked In this lonesome dark wet mines. We see the tears roll down their face When we hear sad stories told Where men lay down upon their sides To hammer out the coal The miners knew no other way

had a wonderful bond of friendship. Perhaps if you grew up in the family of miners you might be able to accept that life. Perhaps it was a passage from childhood to manhood and to bring home the weekly wage and like other men, to put your wage on the table was so important.

From boyhood to manhood. The history left to Castlecomer, Kilkenny and indeed the country is to be treasured. An incredible story, so richly told by Seamus.

That he has left behind a wonderful legacy is something we must be eternally grateful for.

Seamus published two books on the mines: ‘In the shadow of the mines’ and ‘Coal in the blood’.

Both books provide a window into the lives of coalminers for future generations to come.

We reprint one of his best loved poems.

As they went to dig so deep

To hack and slave beneath the clay

And to earn their daily keep

The miners in the bath house now

Washing the black dust from their skin

But the water cannot wash the dust

That lies so deep within

So as we gather here in silence

Let’s keep thinking of the times

When our fathers sons and brothers Were part of the Deerpark mines.

Cllr Pat Fitzpatick on the Miners' Bridge in Castlecomer

The bridge was recently renamed the Miners' Bridge, a name proposed by Cllr Fitzpatrick and Cllr Brennan as a tribute to the town's coal-mining heritage

Part one

Callan’s ancient mariners

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

Looking over the Big Bridge in Callan today, you can admire the scenic beauty of the Moat, or the rolling green sward of the historic meadow.

But you won’t see a single boat navigating the serene or choppy waters of the King’s River. How different from the scene that would have greeted an onlooker from the same vantage point in the early decades of the twentieth century.

Local newspaper correspondent Peter Roughan recalled a time when boats of all shapes and sizes sailed or sped along the surface of the Calm Avonree. This was mainly in the first two decades of the century.

He observed that the ‘navigation logs’ of Callan showed long voyages from Ivy Lodge to Katie Cass’s orchard. He noted: “There were some lovely apple wharves in between: Ivy Lodge in the extreme north, then Hayden’s below the Turning Hole, Mrs. Martin’s below the Lane, the Friar’s next, and below that we had Dr. Shee’s, and the last

post of all was Cass’s.”

When Jimmy Somers bought the Adelphi Hotel, he noticed a reference to local man Tommy Walsh in the Title Deeds. Tommy had been one of Callan’s Ancient Mariners. Jimmy had acquired “a house with two bars”, according to Peter Roughan. The second bar was situated behind the old dispensary.

A garden gate opened on to a few steps that led to the river, where Tommy kept his flat-bottomed boat tied up. Though he treasured his worthy vessel, Tommy complained that he rarely had enough “high water” at the Adelphi Bar to give the boat a proper send-off.

On Sunday evenings, he sailed as far as Katie Cass’s orchard. He rarely ventured further, and used to joke that while he liked eating baker’s bread, he was a bit nervous of Baker’s Weir.

Before Tommy Walsh, Johnny Maher had also caught the nautical craze. His boat was one of the first to take to the water, in about 1905. Johnny had his vessel anchored on the South Side of the bridge, opposite to where Tommy’ boat lay at rest in later years. When not on active service, the boat could be found bobbing in the water at the bot-

tom of the stone steps leading down to the river. The steps were part of the Bridge House property.

There was an iron gate at the top of this little stone stairway. Johnny Maher invited locals to come sailing and “View Callan from the river”, always a happy prospect in those quiet days before motorised traffic.

In later years, Vincent Lanigan opened a jetty for business at the end of Clothiers Lane, at the steppingstones. He berthed his “liner” there, as he called it. His boat had seen service on the River Suir near Carrick.

What came to be known as “Lanigan’s Wharf” was ideal for the purpose, Vincent explained, as it was easy to haul the boat on to dry land, and yet leave adequate space for James Nolan’s horse and cart to get past with barrels of water for the steam engine in the saw mills of West Street. Vincent relied on scores of bare-footed helpers to push his boat into deep water between the land and Friary Bridge. After that, it was plain sailing all the way for “Captain Lanigan”.

Peter Roughan also wrote of Callan’s “Three men in a boat”: Bob Townsend, Joe McLean, and Josie Mahoney, who all lived in Bridge Street.

They launched a craft called the Old Glory on the river. They shared the berthing facilities on Clothier’s Lane with other boats. This boat was the pride of Callan, and the adventurous trio boasted that it was the last word in comfort, better in many respects, they claimed, than the Queen Mary.

Joe was the navigator, Josie the oar man, and Bob served as tour guide on river trips organised for the locals and visitors to town. He pointed out the various places of interest between the wharf and Baker’s Mill, which was as far as the craft could safely venture.

Whenever the boat set out on Sunday evenings, the lads had to be sure to have it back in dock in time for the weekly meeting of the Holy Family group in the Big Chapel.

One Indian summer’s day in 1912, the Old Glory almost came to grief against a boulder in the river. Bob and the two Joes, to settle a bet, had decided to explore some of Callan’s uncharted waters. The brave trio had to splash into the river, and work hard for several hours to manhandle the boat over the obstructing rock.

The boat sailed on, and the lads were full of cheer, their

soggy clothes drying under a blazing sun. They cruised at a leisurely pace by the hospital field, past the workhouse septic tank, and neatly rounded Poulshawn, before moving in the direction of Cahill’s Flats.

Josie Mahony’s skill as an oarsman was unequalled in Callan.

But there was more trouble ahead. Shortly after passing the Flats, the Old Glory nosedived into a mud-bank on the north side of the river at the “Little Osiery”. The mariners had to abandon ship and get the craft on to dry land. Once ashore, they had to push and drag the boat overland to Mahony’s shed at Goatsbridge.

Next morning, the lads arranged for the boat to be transported back to “drydock” at the bottom of Clothiers Lane.

The Butler brothers of Minauns also had a boat on the river. William (later Colonel Butler) and Joe were an adventurous pair who loved taking to the water.

The nearest “shipping yard” to Callan was, it seems, at James Cahill’s of Kilbricken.

The three Cahills, Jack, Tom, and Ned built a boat, ably assisted in its construction by their nephew, Dottie Stapleton, who doubled up as designer and gaffer in the

“yard.”

The boat was a sturdy craft, made of staves and tarred canvas. It served its purpose well for a few weeks, until a few curious Callan lads turned up in the Kilbricken shipyard one day to see if the Cahills would let them have a trip in their boat. T.B. Cahill considered their request for a minute or two, and said heartily: “of course lads, we’ll take her out tomorrow.”

Tom Cahill and the Callan thrill seekers sat into the craft. T.B. joked that he felt like the “Admiral of the Fleet” as the boat sailed along the King’s River. His distinguished guests that day were Willie Joe Lanigan and the Pollard brothers, Dick and Jack.

But disaster struck when the boat’s canvass bottom was ripped apart by stones. The boat filled up with water and the four lads were forced to abandon ship. They had to leg it back to Callan, drenched to the skin.

As they ascended Baker’s Hill on their way into town, they had some harsh observations to make on the stricken vessel, the shipyard in Kilbricken, and the suitability or otherwise of the King’s River for pleasure cruises. Their exact comments have not been recorded.

The Callan River in 1916

The river today from the Big Bridge

Green Street Callan in 1900s

Kilkenny woman walks 236km to honour loved ones and support COPD community

A member of COPD Support Ireland’s Kilkenny branch has gone above and beyond a nationwide walking challenge, completing an incredible 236 kilometres during the month of March.

The initiative, organised by RIP. ie, encouraged participants across Ireland to walk 20 kilometres throughout March 2026 to honour loved ones, support local charities, and celebrate the strength of community.

Inspired by the challenge, Kilkenny resident Nellie Doherty set herself the goal of not only taking part but exceeding expectations. By the end of the month, Nellie had walked an impressive 236 kilometres, dedicating her achievement to all past members of the local COPD group who have passed away.

COPD Support, Ireland’s Kilkenny group is committed to improving the quality of life for people living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease through regular, guided exercise and community support.

The group meets every Tuesday at 2pm for a one-hour session at Loughboy Community Centre (behind St. Fiacre’s Church). Sessions are led by fully qualified local trainer Gina Prónay-Zakar and focus’s on improving cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, bone health, mobility, and overall well being in a safe and supportive environment.

New members are always welcome. Anyone interested in joining the group can contact James Cox by phone or text on 086 353 5424.

About COPD Support Ireland: COPD Support Ireland is a charity set up to support all those living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). They are Ireland’s

only national COPD support and advocacy body, bringing together local support groups from around the country, to help those living with, and caring for someone with, COPD. COPD Support Ireland was founded in 2013 by patients working with the support of the Irish Thoracic Society, COPD National Clinical Programme, and health care professionals.

About RIP.ie Remembers RIP.ie is a trusted platform that brings compassionate communities together in times of loss, and in 2026 they proudly celebrated their 20th year. To mark this milestone, they invited their community to take part in a meaningful nationwide event — a 20km walk during March 2026. This shared journey offered

an opportunity to honour loved ones, support local charities, and celebrate the strength of community. By turning remembrance into a real-world experience, shared grief becomes shared purpose, fostering healing and unity. For every charity registrant, a square foot of native woodland will be planted, creating a living legacy of remembrance.

Nellie's fundraising page: https://ripremembers.rip.ie/fundraiser/ND67721088

Homes & Gardens

Emergency planning for the home

HOME SMART

Home emergencies rarely arrive with much warning. A burst pipe, power cut, storm damage or local flooding can quickly turn an ordinary day into a stressful one, which is why being prepared matters.

According to AXA Insurance, one of the best places to start is with a simple household emergency plan. Every home should have a clear plan for leaving the property quickly, including a meeting point and arrangements for children, pets or vulnerable family members. It’s also important that everyone in the house knows how to turn off the water, electricity and gas if needed.

A well-stocked emergency kit can also make a real difference.

The insurance company recommends keeping essentials such as a torch, spare batteries, a power bank, first aid supplies, bottled water, non-perishable food, blankets, warm clothing and basic tools in an easy-to-reach place. Important documents, including insurance papers and identification, should also be stored safely in a waterproof folder.

Power cuts are among the most common household disruptions, particularly during severe weather. In those situations, torches are safer than candles, while fully charged phones and power banks can help families stay connected. Having a written list of emergency contact numbers is also useful if devices run low on charge.

If storms are forecast, it’s obviously a good idea to secure bins, garden furniture and loose outdoor items, trim back overhanging branches, and check gutters, drains and roof tiles. In areas at risk of flooding, AXA says it’s wise to keep an eye on local alerts, move valuables and electrical items off the floor, and keep waterproof clothing and ready-to-eat food close at hand.

Regular maintenance can help prevent many emergencies before they start. Checking boilers, inspecting pipes, testing smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and keeping gutters clear are all simple steps that can save time, money and stress.

It’s also important to review your insurance cover regularly so they know exactly what protection is in place if the unexpected happens.

Quick fix for scuffed walls

HOME HACK

Garden homes can be rented out

HOMES

The Government’s decision to allow garden homes to be rented out privately may offer fresh possibilities for some Kilkenny homeowners as the search for practical housing solutions continues. Under the proposals, modular units of up to 45 square metres built in back gardens will no longer require planning permission. At a time when housing supply remains under pressure in Kilkenny and across the country, the move is being seen by the Government as a way to

increase accommodation options.

The change marks a shift in position after earlier discussions around limiting such units to family use or linking them to the Rent-a-Room Relief scheme.

Housing charity Threshold has raised concerns, warning that “substandard” garden units could be rented out without proper inspections and that they should be reserved for carers or family members.

Speaking on Monday, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said the Government now believes

the units should be open to private rental. “We believe they should be available for rent, we’ve reached an accommodation on that, and that will be the proposal,” he said.

He said the move was aimed at increasing housing supply and offering more flexibility. “It is about supply, it’s about alleviating pressures on the housing sector.

“Our population is growing, we are part of the European Union, many people come from the European Union to work in Ireland in many of the technology companies and

Bring a garden corner to life

GARDEN NOTES

our health services and so on. “So having a variety of accommodation options, I think, is important and makes sense.”

Asked what had changed, Mr Martin said the Government needed to be “practical”, adding that parents would be unlikely to spend “up to €80,000 if it couldn’t be used” for private rental once a son or daughter had moved out. Housing Minister James Browne said the units would be built to a high standard. “I mean, these will be of a very high standard, and abide by building regulations.”

A simple but effective home hack to remove light marks and smudges from painted walls, doors, and skirting boards is to use a little warm water and a mild detergent. It’s an easy way to freshen up busy areas such as hallways, kitchens and children’s rooms without repainting. Start by dusting the wall, then dip a soft sponge or cloth into warm, soapy water and gently wipe the marked area. Work carefully and avoid anything abrasive, as harsh scrubbing can damage the paint finish. It is always best to test a hidden patch first, especially on matt or older paint. This trick is inexpensive, quick and uses products you already have at home. Paint brands including Dulux and Benjamin Moore recommend gentle cleaning methods like these, so it’s a practical, source-backed way to keep walls looking fresh and well cared for.

Not every garden project has to involve a major makeover or a big budget. Sometimes, the simplest ideas can have the biggest impact - and creating a gravel seating corner is one of them.

It’s practical and can turn an underused patch of garden into a space you will actually enjoy.

Choose a sunny or sheltered corner with enough room for a small bistro table, bench or pair of chairs. Start by marking out the area with a hose or string. A square or rectangular shape is easiest to lay out, but a soft curve can work better in a more relaxed style garden. Clear the ground well, removing weeds, grass and large

stones. Dig down a few inches, then level the area as evenly as possible. Laying a weed membrane will help keep maintenance to a minimum and give the finished space a neater look.

Next comes the fun part. Add a layer of decorative gravel, choosing a shade that suits your garden style and the colour of your planting. Pale stone can brighten a dark corner, while golden or grey gravel often looks more natural. Edge the space with brick, timber, stone or metal for a more polished finish. Once the base is in place, add your seating and soften the look with pots or planters. Lavender, rosemary, salvia or small grasses all work well and add movement and colour

Freepik

Freepik

Zinkevych

Tairseach- standing mouth of

This wonderful exhibition opened at the The Tea ‘Tairseach: Standing at the Mouth of the World', is a new exhibition by Kilkenny-based artists Vicki O' Donoghue and Mary Doyle Burke. In the mystical spaces between the visible and invisible, both artists explore profound approaching their local environments with curious hearts and open minds, creating work

An Exhibition by Vicki O'Donoghue & Mary

Left: Left Vicki O'Donoghue Below: Mary Doyle Burke

The Dynamism of Herd Mentality 60 x 90cm, Oil on canvas, Vicki O'Donoghue

'Embracing the Gobbins', Oil on Canvas, Vicki O'Donoghue, Exhibition Image

standing at the of the world

that meditates on thresholds where the physical world meets something deeper, older and sacred.

O' Donoghue's paintings emerge from sustained walking across the mountainside. Her vivid, abstracted imagery draws from cave sites and ancient symbols, beasts and herds that speak to collective consciousness and primal instincts. Through gestural marks and contrasting colours, she explores herd mentality in polarisation with individualism, interrogating contemporary life while reaching back to more primordial forms of being. Her work exposes the tension between conformity and divergence, a dynamic that sits at the heart of our fractured relationship with the environment.

Doyle Burke's practice is rooted in a shamanistic engagement with Kilkenny's ancient bogs. Working with bio-materials, handmade dyes and bog matter, she positions the bog as a collaborator, friend and guide. Her sculptural and painting processes are shaped by meditative trances beginning in the bog and taking full form in the studio, tapping into intergenerational memory and the cyclical rhythms that bind human and ecological experience.

Together, both artists dance on the edges of sacred thresholds, sensing portals within the landscape. Their work invites us to perceive wider realities beyond what immediately appears. Caves and bogs hold millennia of geological memory, offering a recalibration of scale and challenging what we think we know. Both artists model ways of being with landscape that are attentive, reverent and transformative, helping us rediscover long-forgotten sacred pathways and knowledge we have barely begun to reclaim.

The exhibition is curated by Shannon Carroll and is kindly supported by Kilkenny County Council and Creative Ireland. It is presented as part of the Kilkenny County Council Arts Office Programme. The exhibition continues until Saturday May 2nd. For further enquiries, please contact: Shannon Carroll[shannonmariacarroll@ gmail.com] [0866681100]

St. Canice’s Catholic Parish, Kilkenny, to host National Vocations Sunday Televised Mass

St. Canice’s Catholic Parish in Kilkenny will host this year’s Vocations Sunday Televised Mass, broadcast live at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, April 26th.

The Mass will be celebrated by Bishop Phonsie Cullinan, Chair of the Council for Vocations, and he will be assisted by Fr. Willie Purcell, National Vocations Coordinator and Parish Priest of St. Canice’s Parish.

Seminarians from St. Patrick’s College, Maynooth, religious from the Diocese of Ossory, and many individuals involved in vocations promotion will join the celebration, together with the parish community of St. Canice’s and the wider diocesan family.

Vocations Sunday is an annual moment of prayer and encouragement for vocations to the priesthood, diaconate, and religious life.

This year’s televised celebration offers the faithful across the country an opportunity to participate from home and unite in prayer for those discerning a call to serve the Church.

Speaking to the Kilkenny Observer, Bishop Ger Nash said that St. Canice’s Parish is honoured to welcome the national broadcast and to support the ongoing mission of fostering and promoting vocations.

“It's a great privilege as Apostolic Administrator to welcome the Mass for Vocations Sunday here to St Canice's Church in the historic heart of Kilkenny City. It is also a privilege to welcome all you who will join the Parish of St Canice’s from your own homes and who will pray along with us courtesy of RTE and Scratch films”, said Bishop Nash. The Bishop continued: “St. Canice's is a beautiful church and I hope that

as you all, parishioners and TV viewers lift your hearts to God in praise, that you will be enriched by the experience”. Bishop Ger said that they were praying for vocations on this Good Shepherd Sunday and that it is good to be aware that all vocations are interlinked, based on our common Baptism.

So the first prayer is that every person will recognise their own calling, their own vocation and that from a living, praying Christian Community, men and women will chose the path of committing their whole lives to Christ and to the service of Christ’s people. Concluding his chat with The Observer Bishop Ger said “Prayer is the foundation of our relationship with God and in this Vocation Sunday’s prayers, we ask the Holy Spirit to fill the heart and minds of people in our country, that they may respond generously to what the Spirit asks of them.

The vocations office team, Fr Willie Purcell, Bishop Cullinan.and Carol King

A Sense of Impermanence or Flux 50 x 50cm, Oil on canvas, Vicki O'Donoghue

Food & Drink

Roasted Rhubarb, Feta and Hot Honey Couscous Salad

RECIPE

This colourful salad strikes that lovely balance between sweet, salty and sharp. Roasted rhubarb brings a soft tartness, the feta adds creaminess and a drizzle of hot honey pulls everything together. It works well as a light lunch, an interesting side dish, or part of a spring table spread when you want something a little different from the usual leafy salad.

Ingredients

• 200g couscous

• 250ml hot ve getable stock

• 4 stalks rhubarb, trimmed and cut into short lengths

• 1 r ed onion, finely sliced

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp honey

• 100g feta

• 50g r ocket

• 2 tbsp pumpkin seeds

For the hot honey dressing:

• 2 tbsp runny honey

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• A small pinc h of chilli flakes

• Salt and black pepper

Method

Preheat the oven to 200C/fan 180C/gas 6. Place the rhubarb in a small roasting tin with the sliced red onion. Drizzle over the olive oil and honey, season lightly and roast for 12 to 15 minutes until the rhubarb is just tender but still holding its shape. Set aside to cool slightly.

Put the couscous into a large bowl and pour over the hot vegetable stock. Cover with a plate or clean tea towel and leave for 10 minutes. Once the stock has been absorbed, fluff the couscous with a fork to separate the grains.

To make the dressing, whisk together the honey, olive oil, lemon juice, chilli flakes, salt and black pepper. Taste and adjust if needed.

Toast the pumpkin seeds in a dry frying pan for two to three minutes until they begin to pop. Remove from the heat.

To assemble, stir half the dressing through the couscous. Gently fold in the roasted rhubarb and onion, then add the rocket. Crumble over the feta and scatter with the toasted pumpkin seeds. Spoon over the remaining dressing just before serving.

This is best served slightly warm or at room temperature. It is a good one for lunch guests, and it looks as impressive as it tastes, with very little effort involved.

Rising costs continue to bite

BUSINESS

Food and drink businesses across Kilkenny are still under pressure as rising costs continue to eat into margins and leave many operators walking a fine line between keeping prices competitive and keeping the books balanced.

From cafés and takeaways to restaurants and pubs serving food, the challenge is a familiar one: higher bills, cautious customers and little room for manoeuvre.

The latest figures from the

Central Statistics Office show consumer prices in Ireland were 3.6 per cent higher in March 2026 than a year earlier, the highest annual inflation rate since January 2024. Food and non-alcoholic beverages were 2.3 per cent higher than a year earlier, while housing, water, electricity, gas and other fuels rose by 7.2 per cent.

For independent businesses in Kilkenny, those increases are being felt in day-to-day running costs, from energy and ingredients to transport and general overheads. At the

same time, many customers are still watching their spending and thinking twice before eating out or adding extras to the bill.

Bord Bia said the Irish hospitality and foodservice market reached a record €10.4 billion in 2025, but said that much of that growth was driven by inflation and higher menu prices rather than a major increase in demand. Its research also found that menu prices were 26 per cent higher than in 2020, while many businesses continued to face profitability pressures.

That picture is likely to feel very familiar to food businesses in Kilkenny, many of which are working hard to protect quality, hold on to regular customers and remain a valued part of local town and village life. For many, the months ahead will be about resilience, value and staying one step ahead of rising costs. They will be hoping for a busy summer season to help offset rising expenses, with local support and steady footfall likely to be crucial for businesses across the county.

Kilkenny bakers rise to the challenge

BAKING

Home bakers across Co. Kilkenny are being invited to preheat the ovens and put their best bakes forward as Gala Retail launches its 2026 search for Ireland’s Best Baker and Junior Baker of the Year.

Run in partnership with Virgin Media Television, the competition is back after drawing hundreds of entries last year from talented bakers around the country. This year, Gala is encouraging Kilkenny’s star bakers to get involved for a chance to showcase their skills on a national stage, win a share of €2,500 in cash prizes and feature on Ireland AM.

The live bake-off final takes place on May 28, with finalists judged by well-known food writer and baking expert Catherine Leyden alongside TV presenter Cassie Stokes. With more than 230 stores nationwide, Gala says the

competition is all about celebrating local talent, creativity and community spirit. The 2026 search is also supported by O’Brien Ingredients, which has been supplying bakers across Ireland for more than 60 years.

Entries can be made in six categories: cupcakes, muffins, scones,

a

or

breads, tarts and traybakes. Bakers must submit

recipe along with a photo

video of their creation. The overall winner will receive €1,500, while the Junior Baker of the Year title, open to 12 to 16-year-olds, comes

Pictured at the launch of Ireland’s Best Baker 2026 are judges Catherine Leyden and Cassie Stokes and Gary Desmond, CEO Gala Retail

Drazen Zigic

Metal up your weekend

What’s On

MUSIC

A new live event celebrating metal music and its fan c ulture will come to Kilkenny on Saturday night, with Look Who’s Talking Metal set to take over Ryan’s on April 25. The show brings together two established podcast hosts for what is being described as Ireland’s first touring metal talk show.

Ric hie Duhig, founder and host of The Metal Cell Podcast, and Letty Sharp, host of The Smashing Skull Sessions,

have joined forces to create a live format that combines music, conversation and audience interaction. The pair aim t o shine a light on metal culture in Ireland and beyond, while creating a night that is as ent ertaining as it is loud.

The Kilkenny date will run from 7pm to 11.30pm at Ryan’s, and promises a mix of discussion, storytelling and live performance. Organisers say the goal is to make each stop on the tour an unforgettable experience for fans,

with plent y of humour, energy and behind-the-scenes ins ight from the world of metal.

There will also be a strong local element to the night’s entertainment. Necrotized are set to provide support with a blast of death metal, while Chemical Addiction will perform a special, exclusive acoustic set.

The event is expected to appeal not only to dedicated metal fans, but also to those curious about a music scene known for its loyalty, passion

CONCERT

Classical music fans can enjoy an afternoon of chamber music in Thomastown Concert Hall this weekend when the Pircorlino Trio presents a programme featuring works by György Ligeti and Johannes Brahms.

The concert takes place on Sunday, April 26, from 4pm to 6pm, at Station Road, Thomastown, and will focus on two major pieces written for horn, violin and piano.

The programme opens with Ligeti’s Trio for Violin, Horn and Piano, composed in 1982 and first performed the following year during the 150Year Brahms Celebration in Hamburg. The work carries the subtitle Hommage à Brahms,

although Ligeti himself made clear that it was not a straightforward tribute. Instead, he suggested that the connection lay more in attitude than imitation, with the piece reflecting a certain formal restraint while maintaining his own distinctive voice.

It will be paired with Brahms’ Trio in E flat major, Op. 40, one of the best-loved works in the chamber repertoire. Brahms composed the piece in 1865 while staying in Baden-Baden, in the scenic surroundings of Germany’s Black Forest. The music is often associated with nature and is admired for the way it blends warmth, reflection, melancholy and drama. Together, the two works offer audiences a chance to hear a fascinating musical dialogue

and sense of community. By bringing podcasting and live performance together, Look Who’s Talking Metal offers something a little different from the usual gig format.

With a late-night slot, live music and an emphasis on audience connection, the show looks set to deliver plenty of volume and atmosphere in the city centre.

For Kilkenny’s metal fans, the message is simple - bring your friends, bring your enthusiasm, and get ready to make some noise.

across more than a century, linking one of the Romantic era’s great composers with one of the 20th century’s most inventive musical

Your picks for this week

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

What to Watch: The Three Urns looks like a decent cinema pick at IMC Kilkenny. The new Irish film stars Ci aran Hinds and Stephen Dillane and follows a man coming home to scatter his wife’s ashes, only for the trip to take a strange turn. It sounds like the kind of story that mixes dark humour with something more reflective, which should make it a g ood option for anyone after something a little different.

What t o Read: Barry Cummins’ Buried Secrets looks like a strong local-interest read this week. Newly out this month, the book revisits the murder of Tina Satchwell and the long, troubling mystery that gripped Ireland before the case was solved. For readers who like true crime with c areful reporting and an Irish focus, this paperback should prove a compelling pick for quiet evenings, weekend reading and bookclub conversations over the next few days.

What to Stream: Criminal Record on Apple TV+ is a good option if you are after a proper drama. The London-set crime series follows two detectives working the same case from very differ ent angles, and the new season has just arrived. It is more serious than easy-going, but that is part of the appeal. A solid pick for anyone who likes crime stories that unfold slowly, feel grounded, and keep the tension going.

What to Listen To: Ailbhe Reddy’s Kiss Big is a strong Irish album to spend time with right now. Released earlier this year, it has a warm, thoughtful sound that suits a proper listen to rather than just as background noise. If you want something home grown that feels personal, well made and easy to settle into, this is a good choice for the car, the kitchen or a quiet afternoon at home this weekend.

What t o Play: Tides of Tomorrow is one of the newer g ames landing on Xbox and could be worth a look if you fancy trying something different. It has a sci-fi setting and se ems to be aiming for something a bit more imaginative than the usual run of se quels and familiar titles. For anyone in the mood for a fresh game over the weekend, this feels like one to keep in mind.

Metal podcast hosts Richi Duhig and Letty Sharp

Community & GAA Notes

Kilkenny GAA clubs and Community news

CLARA CAMOGIE

A depleted Clara outfit lost out to a determined Windgap side in Clara on. This was a really hard fought game from start to finish and gave full entertainment value to the decent attendance. Scores were hard to come by in the first half as defenders on both sides were on top. Both teams scored four times, but Windgap grabbed a goal to lead 1-3 to 0-4 at the break. Mary O Connell got three of the Clara points while her sister Margaret got the other one. Windgap were first to score in the second half but five Mary O Connell points in a row gave Clara a two point lead, and with the wind at their backs they looked to be in a good position to push on for the win. But two Windgap frees in a row tied the game and buoyed by this they kicked on to score another 1-2 to take control. Aisling Nolan replied with a Clara point but it was Windgap that closed out the scoring with another point. 2-9 to 0-10 was how it ended. Best for Clara here were the regular starters like the Glynn sisters Aoife and Gráinne, the Nolan sisters Aisling and Rebecca, the O Connell sisters Mary and Margaret and Aisling Curtis. But fringe players like Katie O Connell, Anna Walpole and Lucy Kealy in defence, Siobhan Treacy in midfield and Emma Corr, Moya Kelly, Róisín Kealy and Amelia Ryan in attack battled like tigers to give the Clara girls a real chance of securing victory here. Aoife Treacy and Katelyn Shortall brought the fight when introduced also.

Team - Aoife Glynn, Katie O Connell, Gráinne Glynn, Anna Walpole. Lucy Kealy, Aisling Curtis, Aisling Nolan 0-1. Siobhan Treacy, Rebecca Nolan. Moya Kelly, Mary O Connell 0-8, 0-4f, 0-1 x45, Emma Corr. Amelia Ryan, Margaret O Connell 0-1, Róisín Kealy. Subs used Aoife Treacy, Katelyn Shortall.

COUNTY SCENE

Well, done to the Clara girls that helped Kilkenny U23s to a 3-13 to 2-9 victory over Cork in Freshford on Sunday. The Ryan twins Katie and Keara started at full back and wing forward respectively, with Keara contributing three points to the win. Lucy Boyd added a goal when introduced while Laoise Nolan and the injured duo of Rachel Whelan and Grace Barcoe were also part of the panel.

UPCOMING CLARA FIXTURES

Friday 24th

- Senior Camogie V Thomastown, 19.00 in Clara.Junior Hurling V Naomh Brid, 19.00 in Clara. - U14 Football V Tullogher Rosbercon, Shield SF, 19.00 in Tullogher.

Remember to support our sponsors, Langton’s who sponsor our Senior Hurling team, Freshco who sponsor our Senior Camogie team and Lyrath Estate who support our Juvenile Hurling and Camogie teams.

CLUB LOTTO

The Lotto results for 14th April were as follows, the numbers drawn were 14, 16, 20. There was no lotto winner. The €30 Lucky dip went to James McGarry, Olivia O Keeffe, Michael Foley, Ger Prendergast and Esme, Pippa and Harry Ryan.

O’LOUGHLIN GAELS

JUVENILE HURLERS TRAVEL TO GALWAY

Well, done to O’Loughlin Gaels Under 12 and Under 10 boys who travelled to Galway on Saturday to support Kilkenny and the club’s senior players Paddy, Mikey, Jordan and Luke. The groups were hosted by Clarinbridge and Athenry for challenge games and were shown great hospitality. They then travelled on to Pearse Stadium for the Kilkenny Galway game. Unfortunately, Kilkenny didn’t get the result we were hoping for but at least the boys had some great fun during the day and made some great memories. Thanks to all coaches involved for organising the day.

PEDAL TO THE SEA

O’Loughlin Gaels’s have organised Pedal to The Sea again. On May 1st a group of over thirty intrepid cyclists will depart St. John’s Park and cycle to Dungarvan Co. Waterford, returning the following day. The aim is to raise funds for the continuing development of the Club and also for the Dillon Quirke Foundation.

In recent years St. John’s Park has undergone some major facilities upgrades and plans are in place to continue development to sustain the club’s future

and keep in line with best practices. Since 2019 various works have included extending the dressing rooms, providing Gym facilities, refurbishing the bar and lounge. In 2024 new Floodlights were commissioned, accessible supporters bay created and perimeter fencing upgraded. In 2025 works were completed on the new Astroturf, Wall ball and New Dressing Rooms are next on the list. In 2024 a 10 year plan was announced to complete 2 new pitches and associated works at Dunmore. The Club looks to resource these developments by way of sponsorship, membership and fun fundraising events and anyone wishing to help can contact any member of the club executive.

If you would like to support the Pedal to the Sea cyclists and also the Dillon Quirke Foundation please use the link below. https://www.idonate.ie/ crowdfunder/oloughlingaelsgaacamogiehand

CLUB LOTTO

There was no winner of O’Loughlin Gaels club lotto dated April 14th. The numbers drawn were 10, 11, 22 and 28. The bonus number was 25. Play Now at www.oloughlingaels.com.

The winners of the Promotors Draw were: 1. Ollie O’Driscoll c/o D O’Driscoll. 2. Rose Hayes c/o B Maher. 3. Cailin Greene c/o P Greene. 4. Theresa Bourke c/o JJ Cullen. 5. Chris Goulding c/o D O’Driscoll. 6. Emma Deegan c/o Ml O’Halloran. 7. Murty Bambrick c/o P Greene. 8. Olivia Geoghegan c/o Online. 9. John Brennan c/o Online. 10. Josephine Kelly c/o Online. Thank you for your continued support.

NATIONAL TITLE FOR HAYLEY

Congratulations from all in O’Loughlin Gaels to Under 14 camogie player Hayley Hawe on her fantastic achievement, winning the 39kg Boxing All Ireland at the national finals last week. Well, done Hayley on a great achievement.

The dates for O’Loughlin Gaels Summer Camp have been released. Week 1 will begin on Monday 27th July and run to Friday 31st July. Week 2 will run from Tuesday August 4th to Friday August 7th. Watch out for flyers with details etc which will be distributed to schools and at training in the coming weeks.

KILKENNY BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT

Kilkenny Bereavement Support invite you to a talk “Suicide Bereavement, From Heartbreak to Hope” Thursday 30th April 7.00pm in Newpark Hotel, Kilkenny. Admission free, booking on www. eventbrite.ie recommended. Speakers Christy Kenneally is a novelist, poet and broadcaster and Dr. Linda Finnegan a clinical psychologist and psychotherapist will address how a death by Suicide can devastate the lives of those left behind. From ‘Heartbreak to Hope’ will address the Shock, Pain, Anger and Sadness that are part of the bereaved’ s new reality. From ‘Heartbreak to Hope’ is also for any person who wants to help someone bereaved by suicide, but who doesn’t know what to say or not to say, what to do or how to be.

COMMUNITY GAMES CHESS

The first St John’s chess team representing Kilkenny in the Cairn Community games travelled to Wexford to take on the Wexford champions. The team consisted of Charlie Walker, Ryan Chadwick, Theo Doherty, Joshua Gandesha, Hafi Rahman and Andrew Coogan. They did brilliantly and learned a lot on the night. Unfortunately, they lost 3-2 with 2 stalemates but will be back next year.

ATHLETICS FINALS

The St John’s athletics finals take place in O’ Loughlin’s St. John’s Park on Sundays 26th of April at 2.15pm. €2 entry fee per athlete on the day.

NOTES

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

FRESHFORD

DARTS

Freshford and district league darts are now in its final stages. The B league final was held on Friday night last in Kavanagh’s with Mc Grath’s taking on Seanie’s of Tullaroan. The Tullaroan side took a 3-1 lead but the local side put in a great comeback to pull it back to 4-4 and bring it to the final game which the Tullaroan side coming out eventual winners on a 5-4 scoreline after some great darts and finishing. Man of the match could have gone to a number of players, but it was Ethan Hayes who took the award on the night.

The A semi final will take place tonight (Friday) with Kavanagh’s taking on Killeen’s in Farrells. The C league final takes place on Saturday evening in Seanie’s with Killeen’s taking on Connolly’s at 9.45pm

The A final takes place on 1st May in Connolly’s of Tullaroan with Seanie’s taking on the winners of the Kavanagh’s v Killeen’s game.

The John McGrath Cup final will be held on Sunday next with Farrell’s taking on Seanie’s of Tullaroan in McGrath’s.

CITIZEN SCIENCE WORKSHOPS

Nore Vision are running a series of free Citizen Science Workshops on the River Nuenna, and the first one begins on Tuesday 28th April in the Millenium Park Freshford at 6:45pm. The workshops aim to use the rivers and streams of the Nore catchment as a ‘living lab’ to gather information on water quality and biodiversity. Participants will be trained in mapping, kick sampling, invasive species, plant

SUMMER CAMP

O’Loughlin Gaels Under 10 team who travelled to Galway last weekend as guests of the Clarinbridge and Athenry clubs before travelling on to Pearse Stadium to support Kilkenny.

O’Loughlin Gaels Under 12 team who travelled to Galway last weekend as guests of the Clarinbridge and Athenry clubs before travelling on to Pearse Stadium to support Kilkenny.

identification, habitat surveying and biodiversity recording and is it hoped that with the knowledge gained, participants will go on to become Nore Vision Citizen Scientists. People can participate in as many workshops as they like but are encouraged to sign up to all six. To register for the first event on 28th April, and to get details of upcoming workshops, check the Nore Vision website, norevision.ie or call 086 4183595.

BABY BOY

Congratulations to Liam and Jennifer Cullen, Woodview on the birth of their baby boy recently.

MARTIN O’SHEA RIP

The people of Freshford and Gathabawn were saddened to hear of the death last week of Martin O’Shea late of Balleen Gathabawn. He was predeceased by his wife Bridget.

Although he was in his mid nineties Martin was out and about until recently. A quiet and good living gentleman he was well known and respected in the area. Funeral mass took place in Gathabawn church on Saturday followed by burial in at Lachtains cemetery Freshford.

He is mourned by his daughter Margaret, his grandchildren, son in law, brother, sister, nephews, nieces and extended family to whom sympathy is extended.

LOTTO

There was no jackpot winner in last week’s draw. Numbers drawn were 5,6,22,32. The lucky dip winners were Olive Dalton €50 and D. Ryan and Trish Quinn €25 each. Tickets are €2 and can be purchased online through Clubzap or from any member of the committee. Be in to win.

BORD NA NOG

It was a busy weekend for St Lachtains juveniles as the season continues to pick up pace. Well, done to Michael Ryan and Joey Nolan who played during halftime of the Kilkenny V Galway Leinster Championship game.

The u10s and u12 hurling teams played matches against Kilnadearma from Leitrim before travelling on to support the Kilkenny senior side. The boys played 3 competitive games and were well looked after by their hosts.

While the boys headed west to Galway the u12 camogie girls headed east to Croke Park for a round of Go Games and they gave a great account of themselves and had a great day out.

The u8 boys travelled to Graiguenamanagh on Sunday morning for Go Games and also gave a great account of themselves playing four matches against Graiguenamanagh and Barrow Rangers.

At Pairc Lachtain the u16s defeated Naas in the A league last week in Freshford on a scoreline of 2-14 to 0-12. The minor hurlers beat Clara in RoinnB league in Clara by 7-18 to 3-9 Meanwhile the u 14 footballers took on Galmoy/ Windgap on Friday evening in Pairc Lachtain and the boys fought hard and came out on top and won on score of 5-8 to 3-6

The junior B hurlers lost their second league game to Danesfort on Friday evening at Danesfort on score of 2-15 to 0-17.

The u 14 footballers take on Bennettsbridge in the quarter final of the championship in Bennettsbridge on Friday evening at 6.30 pm.

The junior c hurling league sees St Lachtains face Carrigeen on Friday evening in Pairc Lachtain at 7pm. While in the u 16 A league St Lachtains take on John Lockes in Callan on Monday evening next at 7pm. You can check the club’s social media page for all the latest fixtures and results.

KILKENNY U19

Local lad Cian Donnelly was part of Kilkenny u19 development team who were defeated by Dublin last week.

DEATH

Mrs Mary Cuggy (nee O’Donnell) who died in Dublin last week was originally from Freshford. Interment took place in St Lachtains cemetery Freshford on Thursday (23rd April) afternoon.

SYMPATHY

Sympathy is extended to Mrs O’Shea Chapel Street and all her family on the death last week of her son in law Edmund Grace late of Gaulstown, Tullaroan. Funeral mass took place in Tullaroan church on Saturday morning last followed by burial in Tullaroan cemetery.

SOCCER

Freshford Town Jnr side have finished their league games for this season and will remain in the same division for next season.

In the underage section the u13 girls were beaten by Callan in the cup on Score of 3-0. The u13 boys had a 2-0 win over Deen Celtic with goals from Cian Grant and Tom Dalton. The u 12 boys lost 4-3 to Evergreen with goals scored by Jack Costelloe and

Tom Campion SPLIT THE POT

This month’s proceeds from Split the pot go to St Lachtain’s Bord na nOg. Last week’s winner was Sean Kennedy Jnr. who won €200. Tickets are just €2 and can be purchased in any of the local pubs or businesses.

MASS TIMES

Mass in St Lachtains church on Tuesday and Friday morning at 9.30am. Mass on Sunday morning at 11am. Mass in Tulla Church every third Saturday evening.

PENALTY KINGS OF KILKENNY

A special and exciting day is planned for May 31st at the Sportsfield in Woodview, promising fun, competition, and celebration for all ages. The highlight of the day will be a thrilling team event, where participants are invited to put their skills to the test. If you think you and your friends have what it takes, come along and prove it. Teams of five can enter at a cost of €100, with the chance to compete for a fantastic top prize of €1,000, as well as the prestigious Gerry O’Reilly Cup.

The event will also mark the grand opening of the brand-new Astra Turf pitch, a major addition to the facilities and a significant milestone for the community. Proceedings will kick off at 12pm, and there will be plenty to keep everyone entertained throughout the day.

Alongside the competition, there will be a lively atmosphere with a BBQ, music, games, and lots of fun activities for all to enjoy. It promises to be a family-friendly occasion, bringing together players, supporters, and the wider community.

Special guests are expected to attend, adding to the excitement of the day, and there will also be a range of special prizes up for grabs. It’s an event not to be missed, so be sure to come along and be part of a memorable day in Woodview.

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.

PILGRIMAGE

The Ossory pilgrimage to Lourdes will take place 25th to 30th May. 5 nights from €995 per person. All bookings through Joe Walsh tours on 01 2410800 or online at pilgrimage/group-diocesan-pilgrimages or by post to JWT Harcourt Street Dublin 2. Assisted pilgrims should contact Fr O’Connor on 0872517766.

OUTREACH CENTRE

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

BRIDGE

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

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

MABS

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

JAMES STEPHENS GAA AND CAMOGIE CLUB

MINOR HURLING

The minor hurlers just about retained their unbeaten run in the 2026 Minor “A” league campaign when battling to claim a hard earned 0-15 to 1-12 draw against John Locke’s on their home ground in Callan. Having conceded a late goal, the Village players showed commendable spirit to fire over the last three scores in the closing minutes of a competitive fixture for a well deserved share of the league points. They now await the results of the final round of games in the “B” division to determine who they will meet in the quarter final of the league.

DOGGIE NIGHT

Thanks to the welcome change in the weather, a bumper crowd of club supporters across all ages enjoyed the club’s annual “Going To The Dogs” night on Friday evening in the Kilkenny Greyhound track. While the serious punters concentrated on the difficult task of finding winners the younger generation enjoyed revelling in the side attractions. The feature event of the evening, the George Leahy Memorial race, sponsored by the Leahy family and worth €2,500 to the winner was won by the Co. Carlow entry, Mission Control. Our thanks to Anthony Morrisson and Tony Scanlon along with Jill Roberts, Marie Adams and Seamus Maguire for organising the hugely successful outing.

SOCIAL CAMOGIE / MOTHERS AND OTHERS

The committee of the Social Camogie and Mothers and Others would like to let you know that the sessions start back on Thursday 23rd. April from 7:30 to 8:30pm at Pairc Sheamuis Stiophán, Kells Road, R95HF98. Whether you’ve never picked up a hurley or you’re looking to get back into it, this is the perfect space to enjoy camogie in a relaxed, social setting. No experience is needed. Come join us for fun, fitness and fresh air. For more information Call Norah 087-9431800 or Maz 083-3921464

LEINSTER SENIOR HURLING

It was a disappointing trip to the west for the Kilkenny senior hurlers, clubmen Cian Kenny and Ed McDermott as they fell to a heavy 3-25 to 1-16 defeat at the hands of the Tribesmen in the first round of the Leinster Senior hurling championship on Saturday afternoon. With only six days to their 2nd round fixture against neighbours Wexford, manager Derek Lyng and his playing panel face the serious challenge of regrouping for what will be a win at all costs fixture if they are to remain in contention to retain the Leinster title on Saturday evening next 25th April in UPMC Nowlan Park.

LEINSTER MINOR HURLING

It was a better day for the Kilkenny minor hurlers on Saturday as they comfortably accounted for Westmeath, 4-18 to 0-14 on their own turf in Clonkill in the first round of the Leinster Minor championship campaign. Playing their part in the win were club players Henry Phelan at wing back, and Ruairi Power and Brion Walsh in the full forward line. Paddy Purcell and Jack Mulcahy are on the extended panel while clubman Stephen Morgan is a member of Gordon Byrne’s management team.

WEDDED BLISS

Congratulations to Diarmuid Cody and his fiancee Jessica O’Dwyer on their marriage on Friday last in Clonakilty, Co. Cork. The happy occasion saw the coming together of two James Stephens and Kilkenny sporting dynasties with a proud hurling record going back three generations of their families. After exchanging their vows and the celebration of Mass in the Sacred Heart Church, Clonakilty the wedding party travelled to the Fern Hill House Hotel, for the traditional wedding breakfast after which they settled into an evening of music, dance and family chats to celebrate the happy occasion. We send our wishes to Diarmuid and Jessica for a long and happy life together.

BONUS BALL

The April Bonus Ball number following the weekend’s National Lotto draw was 24. The lucky winners were Gavin Costigan and Brian Sheeran who will each receive a cheque for €500 in the coming days. The next draw will take place on 16th May. Our thanks to all who continue to support the valuable

club fundraiser.

JUNIOR VOLUNTEERS

The Kilkenny Recreation and Sports Partnership is seeking junior volunteers (aged 15 to 17) to support its inclusive Summer Camps for children with additional needs which take place across July 2026 in Kilkenny city. Under the guidance of Activity Leaders, volunteers will help create fun in a safe and supportive environment encouraging children to engage fully in a variety of sporting activities. For participants this is a rewarding and worthwhile experience. Also, ALONE is seeking Befriending Volunteers to provide companionship to older folk in their community. Volunteers will be asked to commit 1 HOUR per week offering social contact and basic practical support encouraging people to stay connected to the local community. For further detail email www.volunteerkilkenny.ie.

LOTTO (CRANNCHUR)

Na huimhreacha don seachtain seo caite na 1, 17, 24, 30. Ni raibh aon buaiteoir. An duaischiste don seachtain seo na €5,000. Na mion duaisneanna €40: Martina, Sean Murray, Joe Pattisson, Terry O’Rourke and Harry McIntyre

BENNETTSBRIDGE

SOUTHEAST WOODTURNERS

Southeast Woodturners gather in Bennettsbridge on the third Saturday of each month. Established over 35 years ago, the Chapter is part of the Irish Woodturners Guild, the chapter brings together beginners, experienced turners, and the odd curious visitor for demonstrations, shared learning, and the friendly exchange of skills that help keep the wonderful craft alive and thriving.

This month’s challenge was one that touched many of us deeply. We set out to make wig stands, simple pieces, but full of meaning, all to be donated to Southeast Cancer support services. The response from members was incredible. Every stand carried a bit of its maker’s heart and seeing them all lined up together was a reminder of what a community can do when it puts its hands and goodwill to work. We’re always delighted to welcome new members. If you’ve ever wondered what woodturning is about, or if you’d simply like to drop in, have a look, enjoy a cup of tea and a friendly chat, you’ll find an open door and a warm group waiting for you. The late PJ Ryan was a valued member of the group for many years and is remembered fondly. To view some recent projects, visit their new Facebook page Southeast Chapter Woodturners. For more information, you can contact Michael or Martina on 0879157861.

IRISH DANCING

Sofia Khodabacksh took home 3 world medals from the world dancing championship last week. Sofia won gold in her reel securing first place from 134 competitors. She also won medals for her hornpipe and championship.

MASS TIMES

Bennettsbridge, Wednesday 10.30am. Friday 10.30am. Sunday 10,30am. Tullaherin Saturday 8pm FIRST COMMUNION PREPARATION MASS

Preparation Mass was held on Sunday last. There was a full attendance of children who will make their First Holy Communion on Saturday, 2nd May at 11am.

GATHERING GROUP

Members of the Gathering Group spent an enjoyable day out, beginning with a delicious breakfast in Gowran Park, followed by an afternoon trip to the Arboretum Garden Centre.

LOTTO RESULTS

The results for were as follows for the 13th April draw. There was no winner of the jackpot. The numbers drawn were 8, 9, 13, 27. Consolation Prizes, De Bally Boys, Kay Galway, BB, Margaret O’Donnell, BB, Eileen Phelan, Millennium Court, Alan Forde, Gowran Road, The jackpot still there folks!

CARDS

Results for 7th April; First Prize Marty Hanlon/ Toddy Skehan, Lar Gibbons/Michael Fitzpatrick (10 Games). Table Prize Pat O’Neill/Bridget Cottrell. 14th April First Prize Lar Gibbons/Michael Kenneally (14 Games). Second Prize Tommy Hayes/Bridget Murphy (11 games). Table Prize Brendan O’Connell/ Ger Cormican

KILKENNY VOLUNTEER CENTRE

The Kilkenny Volunteer Centre has a lot of options if you are interested in getting involved. Down Syndrome Kilkenny is seeking volunteer marshals to support the “Saddle Up for Down Syndrome” cycle event on Sunday 26th April. Volunteers will be based at Danesfort GAA Club and along routes across Kilkenny from 8am to 2pm.

Community & GAA Notes

Kilkenny Local Area Integration Team is seeking volunteers to support Africa Day on Sunday 24th May 2026 at The Parade, Kilkenny. Africa Day is an annual celebration of African cultures, heritage, and diversity, featuring music, dance, food, and familyfriendly activities.

Kilkenny Recreation and Sports Partnership (KRSP) is seeking Junior Volunteers (aged 15–17) to support its Inclusive Summer Camps for children with additional needs, taking place across July 2026 in Kilkenny City. Under the guidance of Activity Leaders, volunteers will help create a fun, safe, and supportive environment, encouraging children to engage fully in activities.

The Rivers Trust is inviting people to take part in the Big River Watch between 24th and 30th April 2026. This citizen science initiative helps build a picture of river health across Ireland. Participants spend just 15 minutes by a local river observing wildlife and noting any signs of pollution using the free Big River Watch app.

ALONE is seeking Visitation Support and Befriending Volunteers to provide companionship to older people in the community. Volunteers commit to approx. 1 hour per week.

ALONE is seeking Telephone Support and Befriending Volunteers to provide regular phone calls to older people. Volunteers commit to at least 1 hour per week.

These are just some of the areas needing volunteers. If you find a volunteering role that interests you, visit our site to register or apply www.volunteerkilkenny.ie or contact us by info@volunteerkilkenny.ie.

EAST END SOCCER

Some East End supporters were present at the match when Ireland secured a 1–0 win over Poland in the Women’s World Cup qualifiers. There were smiles all round from the local contingent. U14s, East End 6-0 Kilkenny United. A Great win for our U14s to finish their league campaign. A strong performance and a big result away to Kilkenny United. The girls have been an absolute pleasure to coach all year and it’s great to see them finish the season on a high. Goalscorers, Ellie Killian, 5 Lucy Fitzgerald 1.

U12 CAMOGIE PLAY CROKE PARK

The green and yellow of Bennettsbridge descended on Croke Park when the school U12 Camogie team were selected to attend an Allianz Pitch Rewards Day in Croke Park. They played two games against Mountrath, Co Laois and St. Ursula’s NS, Waterford. They were superbly supported by their classmates from 4th, 5th and 6th classes, school staff and by the many parents who travelled to see them play.

GAA

Intercounty Games: Hard luck to David Blanchfield and the Kilkenny seniors who lost out to Galway

last Saturday in Salthill. Well, done to Jamie Walsh and the Kilkenny minors who defeated Westmeath in the opening round of the Leinster minor championship. Best wishes to both lads in their upcoming games against Wexford and Galway

Membership 2026: Membership for the coming season is now open and can be paid to any committee member or online via clubspot. For non-playing members the membership remains at 40 euro. Adult players membership is 150 euro and student players 100 euro. Early payment would be greatly appreciated as the bills for 2026 start to come in. Underage Games: Our under 14 footballers had a great win over Castlecomer to claim the Roinn B League title last Friday night. They now play Freshford in the championship next Friday evening at home. Bennettsbridge minors defeated Cloneen at home last Wednesday evening. Our under 16s played Gowran on Monday last. Please see the

Supporters from East End were in Dublin to watch Ireland.

The green and yellow of Bennettsbridge descended on Croke Park.

East End U14s.

Section of crowd at a recent demonstration hosted by the Southeast Chapter Woodturners in Bennettsbridge.

Sofia Khodabacksh.

Kilkenny GAA website for fixtures and changes. Best of luck to all teams.

Bennettsbridge Limestone: Bennettsbridge Gaa club would like to thank Eoin O’Carroll and all at Bennettsbridge Limestone for their ongoing support as main club sponsor again this year. Croke Park Visit: Our under 10 boys and girls recently had a day out in Croke Park, playing a game and touring the dressing rooms and presentation area. It was a very enjoyable experience for all. Signage Campaign: Bennettsbridge GAA club continues to promote the Pitch signage campaign. There are still places available and many thanks to all the business owners who have supported so far. If interested, please contact Alan Flynn or Alan Morrissey.

Split the Pot:Well done to Eddie Ryan who won 78 euro, Carmel Forde, 30 euro and Luke Dowling 20 euro. The draw can also now be entered online on the club spot app under fundraising. Thanks again for the support.

GRAIGUENAMANAGH

HIGHVIEW ATHLETIC

Well, done to our U11 Red team who qualified for the Jagger Wenyss Bowl final after a hard fought victory over Bridge Utd Blue on Wednesday evening in Harristown. In windy conditions both teams found chances hard to come by early on, but Highview took the lead midway through the half with Jack Bolger finishing off a well worked counterattack. With the wind at their backs in the 2nd half Bridge began to get a foothold in the game and equalised early on. The Highview lads dug deep, and a strong defensive display kept them in the game. With the clock ticking towards extra time Highview won a free kick on the edge of the box and James O’Carroll stepped up and produced a goal worthy of winning any game.

DUISKE COLLEGE

Our 2nd year students took a trip to Sheilbaggin for an exciting day of adventure. They started off the day with some surfing lessons before tackling some great waves on the Wexford coast. Next up after a bite to eat was high rope climbing which every student showed their bravery and team work to help each other along the way. To finish off the day our students experienced some man made caving which was enjoyed by all. Big thank you to Mr. Cuddihy and Ms Stafford who accompanied the students on the trip and gator Ms. Hayles for organizing it.

GRAIGFEST

Get ready for the biggest and best Graiguefest yet! Graiguefest 2026 takes place on August 7th, 8th and 9th, with a full weekend of music, camping and great atmosphere in Graiguenamanagh. This year we are expanding the camping options. As well as campervans, caravans and tents are now welcome too. Camping Weekend Tickets are €75 per motorhome, caravan or tent. Early Bird Weekend Music Passes are €30 per person. This covers Saturday and Sunday in the Hub. Music in the Meadows Friday night is Free. All camping will be based in The Meadows: Field 1: Motorhomes. Field 2: Caravans. Field 3: Tents. Please note that, as with all festivals, there will be limited EHU available in The Meadows and this will be reserved for medical requirements only. The festival itself will take place in The Hub, with: Friday in The Meadows featuring Men in Black and Mean Streets. Saturday at The Hub with 80s bands and DJs. Sunday at The Hub with folk bands and DJs. Tickets available now at gr8events.ie/graiguefest26

LOCAL LOTTO

The numbers drawn were 5,17,18,25, there was no winner of the jackpot. Consolation prizes of €30 went to, Orla Kehoe (online). Mary McGrath (online). Ben and Luke Lawlor. Colin Ryan (online). Bridie Doyle.

ROWING CLUB

Graiguenamanagh Recreational Regatta 2026: What a day. Could not have gone better. The weather and conditions were with us, the supporters were roaring, the burgers and treats were filling, and the racers were on that river, putting on amazing performances. Thank you so much to the club for organising, to the juniors for coxing, to the adults and parents for feeding everyone. And a big thank you to the club that attended; Athlone, Fermoy, Phoenix, Alltech, Carlow, New Ross, Neptune, and to our own Graiguenamanagh rowers.

The winners included: Men’s Novice Quad: Alltech. Men’s Experienced Quad: Graiguenamanagh. Women’s Novice Quad: Carlow. Women’s Experienced Quad: Graiguenamanagh. Mixed Novice Quad: Fermoy. Mixed Experienced Quad: Graigue-

namanagh

CAMOGIE CLUB

The Graiguenamanagh Camogie Club U15 team travelled to Thomastown to take part in their Club Feile Competition. They played Dunnamaggin Camogie Club (draw) and Lisdowney Camogie Club (win) to progress to the semi-final where they overcame Conahy Camogie Club to meet Thomastown Camogie Club in their final. The Graiguenamanagh girls were a force to be reckoned with and came away with a fantastic win. They will now proceed to represent Kilkenny Camogie in the Feile Nationals in June.

The Club is very proud of this team. Every girl put in a huge effort in all the games to secure their place in the final. Thanks to their management team for the fantastic coaching and encouragement. We are also very grateful to all the supporters who cheered them along.

Thanks to the Kilkenny Camogie County Board representative, Tom Egan who presented the Cup to Katie and Ruby (joint captains) and well done to all the Clubs for taking part today. It was fantastic to see so many girls enjoying the games.

GORESBRIDGE PAULSTOWN

CHURCH SERVICES/EVENTS

Weekday Masses: Goresbridge at 10am on Wednesday; Paulstown on Tuesday and Thursday:

TALKING THE TALK

Cupla Focal is an Irish language conversation circle that meets every Friday in the Goodly Barrow Cafe. It offers a relaxed, friendly space to practice speaking Irish, build confidence, and connect with others interested in the language, from beginners to fluent speakers, through casual conversation and shared learning.

SHOP LOCAL

Tucked into the heart of Oaklawns, the local everyday shop in Paulstown is a true community gem. Always convenient and welcoming, it offers everything you might need, from fresh groceries to household essentials. The friendly atmosphere makes every visit a pleasant experience, with staff who greet customers warmly and are always ready to help. Whether you are picking up a quick snack or doing a small shop, it never feels rushed or impersonal. Its accessibility and reliability make it an important part of daily life for residents, providing both quality goods and a genuine sense of neighbourly connection. It also offers you a chance to pick up your free copy of the Kilkenny Observer.

SCOIL BHRÍDE (GORESBRIDGE)

The Parent’s Association is holding a fund raising event on Sunday 26th April at the Kilkenny Dog Track. The track opens at 7pm with the first race at 7.30pm. Entrance: €10 per adult and children are free. All admission tickets are entered into a draw for €100 cash prize. Donations can also be made via GoFundMe. This will be a fun filled night for all the community.

SPLIT THE POT

Split the Pot In aid of Goresbridge Rural Development is also online. Simply scan the QR code or go

to lottoraiser.ie

STROKE SUPPORT

Meetings the both the Kilkenny and the Carlow Stroke Support Groups are open to Stroke survivors and carers. The Carlow meeting takes place every second Friday of the month in St Dympna’s Hospital, Carlow from 2pm to 4pm. For further information text/call Lynda 087 7814697.

KILMANAGH

ACTIVE LADIES GROUP

On Monday next, 27th April, we will be hosting a talk by Manicle Property Insurance Claims. All you ever needed to know about taking out adequate household and business insurance will be covered. Also how to make a successful claim, help with claims etc. will be discussed. There will be plenty of time for questions. Please come along at 7pm to Naomh Aodhan Community Centre, Killmanagh, R95 YT25. Refreshments will be served on the night. All are welcome.

FUND RAISING QUIZ

Friends of Milo Hennessy are organising a Sports Quiz Night in his memory, in partnership with members of his family and Graigue Ballycallan GAA Club. This event is being held to raise funds for the Irish Lung Fibrosis Association, whose work is focused on supporting families, healthcare professionals and doing research into new medications to halt the progression of the disease. It takes place in The Pound, Ballycallan on Saturday, April 25th at 8.30pm. A great night’s entertainment is assured, and all are welcome.

SOCCER NEWS

Well, done to River Rangers who captured the K and DL Division Two title last weekend, for the first time since 2004. It’s a fitting reward after an exciting season, for all the players, management and associates. Here’s to next season in Division One. Once more, congratulations to all.

FIXTURES

Saturday, April 25th: U17 Schoolboys League: River Rangers v Highview Ath. U13 Schoolboys League; Evergreen v River Rangers. Sunday, April 26th: Ken and Michael Byrne Cup; St Johns v River Rangers. Tuesday, April 28th: U16 Schoolboys League: Thomastown Utd v River Rangers.

CAMOGIE

This year St Brigids Camogie Club is celebrating its 50th anniversary. On Friday, May 1st at 7.30pm in Tom Ryall Park, players, supporters and the wider community, will gather to mark this importance occasion. All are welcome, see you there.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

Down Syndrome Kilkenny is seeking volunteer marshals to support the “Saddle Up for Down Syndrome” cycle event on Sunday 26th April. Volunteers will be based at Danesfort GAA Club and along routes across Kilkenny from 8am to 2pm, assisting with traffic flow and guiding cyclists on three routes. Refreshments will be provided on the day. This is a fun and rewarding opportunity to support a great cause and help make a difference in the community.

ALONE is seeking National Support & Referral Line Volunteers to support older people across Ireland. Volunteers commit to a minimum of one 2-hour shift per week, providing a listening ear, information, and support via phone. This role involves responding to calls, signposting services, and supporting older people in a friendly and professional manner. Full training will be provided. For lots more volunteering roles, visit our site to register or apply at www.volunteerkilkenny.ie or contact us by info@volunteerkilkenny.ie. If you are an organization in need of volunteers, please get in touch to see how we can support you too.

RUNNING CLUB

With the arrival of summertime and the lengthening evenings, the Running Club activities have returned to Kilmanagh village. On Tuesdays at 7pm, the weekly Club Run takes place. This is a friendly and supportive group, where all fitness levels are welcome. Walk, run or jog at your own place, and new members are always welcome. On Thursdays at 7pm, the Walk and Talk take place. This is a relaxed and supportive space dedicated to movement, conversation and mental well-being. Fresh air and friendly faces, and all are welcome.

LOTTO RESULTS

Results for 13th April. Numbers drawn were 2; 9; 22; 26. There was no winner. Lucky Dip winners were Mary Maher, Dama; Michael Luby, Tullaroan and Anna Drohan. Sellers prizes went to Mary O’Connor and Pat Comerford. Jackpot next week will be €8200.

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.

BALLYRAGGET BALLYOUSKILL

NEW MASS TIMES

Mass in St Patrick’s Church Ballyragget will now be celebrated every Sunday morning at 9.30am. Weekday masses will be celebrated on Tuesdays Jenkinstown 7.30pm, Wednesday and Thursday Ballyragget 10am and Lisdowney Friday 7.30pm.

FUN RUN

Scoil Naomh Fiachra, Clontibrid will host a fun run on Sunday, 26th April. Registration begins at 10:30am, with the event starting at 11am. Participants can choose between 3km and 6km distances, suitable for walking or running. Enjoy a community atmosphere, with a raffle and refreshments available on the day for all attendees. Everyone is welcome to come along and join.

LIGHT UP THE NIGHT PRESENTATION

Light Up The Night returns with a special evening celebrating community spirit and generosity. A presentation of funds raised from the New Year’s Eve “Light Up The Night Truck and Tractor Run” will take place in the Canon Malone Hall, Ballyragget, on Friday 24th April at 8pm. This event recognises the support and effort of everyone involved in making the run such a success. It promises to be a warm and welcoming gathering, bringing people together

The green and yellow of Bennettsbridge descended on Croke Park.

Community & GAA Notes

once again. All are very welcome to attend and share in the occasion.

TABLE QUIZ

A table quiz will take place on Saturday, 25th April at 9:30pm in the Wheel Inn, Ballyouskill. Teams of four can enter at €40 per table. There will also be a raffle on the night, adding to the fun and excitement. All proceeds from the event will go toward supporting a local girl who is preparing to compete in the Special Olympics Ireland Summer Games 2026 with the Kilkenny branch. Your support would be greatly appreciated for this very worthwhile cause.

MULLINAVAT

VAT PAK

The Marian Hall in Strangsmill was full to capacity last Friday night for the great performance of Betwixt and Between by the Vat Pak Drama Group. The play, written by Michael J. Ginnelly, told the story of the Carmody family who had unexpectedly come into significant money. They decided to conceal their good fortune which set in train a chain of increasingly absurd lies and consequences. Well, done to the cast PJ Power, Martina Knox, Grace Kent, Frank Keane, Susan Henry, Seán Walsh, Tom McDonald and Teresa Dollard. Well, done also to director Biddy Madigan who was well supported by Catherine Bolger, Catriona Cunningham, Pat Mulhearn, Susan Madigan, Sinéad Grace Madigan and John Woods. The performances ensured a hugely enjoyable night for everyone.

It was the first major community event in the Marian Hall and the local Committee deserve great credit for the way the hall was presented and for the arrangements in place so that everyone could be accommodated in comfort. The Vat Pak Drama Group would like to acknowledge with thanks the support received from Kilkenny County Council under its Community Events Grant Scheme.

LISTERLIN VILLAGE IMPROVEMENT SCHEME

A Part VIII planning process for Village Improvement Works in Listerlin has started. Details are available on the Council website and at the Area Office in Ferrybank until 1st May. Submissions can be made online or in writing to Mary Mulholland, Director of Services, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny before 15th May.

SOUTH KILKENNY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

The Society will host a lecture by Dr. Siobhán Doyle, Memories and Memorabilia, Telling GAA Stories through Objects, in the Parish Hall, Mullinavat at 8.00pm on Friday, 24th April. Admission is €5 for non-members,

TULLOGHER/ROSBERCON

The Vintage and Classic Club will host a vintage show at the Parish Centre, Rosbercon from 12 noon on Sunday, 26th April. Cost for adults is €5 (children free). Please contact PJ (087 7982118) and Liz (087 6372733) for more details.

ROUTE 4

Bus Éireann announced its intention to cease operations on the Waterford- Dublin via Carlow (Route 4) service form 24th May. The National Transport

annual Go Fund Me page for donations towards the cost of maintenance of the facilities and amenities at the complex area. It will enable the volunteers and the CE and TUS workers to maintain the high standards of the grounds, pitches, walkways and riverbank of which everyone is justifiably proud.

TABLE QUIZ SERIES

After the great success of the series of monthly table quizzes in the Fox’s Den which finished on the last Monday of March it has been decided to organise another series from October 26 to March ’27. A number of groups have already asked for a date to be reserved for them. Please contact Tomás Breathnach to be included in the rota.

Authority, following a report on the impact along the decision on the corridor and surrounding areas, has determined that the withdrawal of the service will move the level of service away from the standards set in the Connecting Ireland Programme. The Authority considers that a public service obligation (PSO) is needed on the Carlow-Waterford section of the route to ensure the continued provision of an appropriate level of public transport connectivity along the corridor. A recommendation has been made to take the necessary steps to put in place appropriate service interventions to address the identified service gaps and to support the delivery of national public transport policy objectives.

WATERFORD-KILKENNY GARDA YOUTH AWARDS

Nominations are now open for the 2026 Waterford–Kilkenny Garda Youth Awards! Entries will be accepted until 30th April 2026, and the awards ceremony will take place on 20th May 2026 at the Tower Hotel in Waterford City. These awards celebrate young people who make a real difference in the lives of their families, friends and communities. Many of these young role models work quietly in the background, but their positive impact is felt by everyone around them. People can nominate someone aged 13–21 who deserves recognition. For more information email: wk.GardaYouthAwards@ garda.ie

KILMACOW

RESURFACING WORKS IN KILMACOW

Kilkenny County Council intends to resurface the L3401 from the Fox’s Den in the Upper Street to the turn off for Ballinearla (L7431) in the Lower Street between Tuesday 5th May and Friday, 8th May.  Diversions will be in place for the duration of the works along the R448 (old N9) and the L3403 from Murray’s Cross.  Local access may be restricted.

KILMACOW SPRING CLEAN

Well, done to all who participated in the Annual Spring Clean which was held in Kilmacow on Sunday (19th April). Over forty people were involved in the clean up with most of the townlands covered, including Ullid, Narabane, Upper Street, Sports Complex, Dunkitt, Grannagh, Miltown, Ballykeoghan, Lower Greenville, Greenville, Molum, Skeard, Parkereid, Strangsmill, Knockhouse and Dangan. The amount of rubbish collected this year, fifty bags, was significantly up on the previous year. Among the items collected was a bag of clementine oranges, a bicycle, a pin striped suit, a clothes horse, work boots and car bumpers. A special word of thanks to Michael Kinsella and Kathleen Williams for the collection and storage of the collected material. Also, thanks to Kilkenny County Council and An Taisce for their support. The collected material is due for collection during the week.

KILMACOW LOTTO

The winning numbers in last week’s lotto were 3, 10, 16, and 19. There were three Match 3 winners.

GO FUND ME

Kilmacow Community Complex has opened its

BINGO

Mooncoin Parish Hall hosts Bingo every Monday night, including bank holidays. Doors open at 7.30pm with ‘eyes down’ at 8.00pm. All support welcome.

CAMOGIE AND LADIES GAELIC FOOTBALL

Kilmacow Camogie and Ladies Gaelic Football Association will hold a Gear Swap from 7.00–7.30pm on Thursday, 23rd April in the Sports Complex. Donations of good quality, safe and usable items are very welcome, including helmets, hurleys, football boots, shin guards, playing gear, green skorts, training tops and other suitable equipment. Club volunteers will be collecting gear from 6.30–7.30pm on Tuesday 21st April during Camogie training.

LGFA NURSERY PROGRAMME (GIRLS 4–6 YEARS)

The LGFA Nursery Programme has now commenced, and the club would be delighted to welcome any girls aged 4–6 years who would like to give it a try. Training takes place 6.30–7.15pm every Thursday evening in the Complex, with a focus on fun, games and making new friends. New players are always very welcome.

AHEAD OF THE GAME WORKSHOP

Kilmacow Camogie and LGFA will host the “Ahead of the Game” mental wellbeing workshops for U14, U16 and Minor players, along with their parents and coaches, on Monday 13th May in the Barrow Room of the Community Centre. The Players Workshop will run from 7–8pm, followed by the Parents and Coaches Workshop from 8–9pm. This important programme supports young people and their support networks in understanding mental fitness and how to seek help when needed.

FERRYBANK

FERRYBANK LIBRARY

At 12 noon on Saturday, 25th April the library will host Storytime and Craft when children can enjoy stories read by staff and fun craft activity. For more information, please contact Ferrybank Library at 051 897200 or email ferrybank@kilkennylibrary.ie.

NEIGHBOURHOOD PARK

Well, done to the Parks Department of Kilkenny County Council for their recent work in installing a new Communication Board in the Neighbourhood Park in Ferrybank. It will be of great assistance to children who are non-verbal or with limited speech and it will also be of great benefit to parents and guardians too.

FERRYBANK RESIDENTS’ COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

A meeting of Ferrybank Residents Community Development Group will be held in the Hillsfield Centre from 2.00pm to 3.00pm on Wednesday, 29th April. New members welcome. If you’d like to be kept informed of forthcoming meetings or you would like to find out more about our group, email ferrybankcn@gmail.com

JOHNSTOWN

CONFIRMATION

Congratulations to the 34 children from St. Kieran’s N.S., Johnstown and St. Michael’s N.S., Crosspatrick who made their confirmation in St. Kieran’s Church, Johnstown at the weekend. The sacrament was administered by Fr. Eamon O’Gorman, P.P. Very well done to Miss Leahy and Mr. Martin and the teachers at both schools, the parents and the younger school friends who helped with the beautiful singing accompanied by Eddie Cullinane, Noirin Ryan and Breda Campion

SYMPATHY

Sympathy is extended to the Quinlan families who have been bereaved by the death of Brigid Engleby, nee Quinlan, in her 95th year in Washington, Tune/ wear, North East England. Funeral Mass was celebrated in the Church of our Lady, Washington. ST. KIERAN’S N.S

An open day for new students in September 2026 will be held on Friday April 24th from 1.30 to

Betwixt & Between on stage in the Marian Hall.

Volunteers assemble at the Church Gates for the Annual Spring Clean in Kilmacow.

New Communicaiton Board recently installed in the Neigbourhood Park in Ferrybank.

2.30pm.

FENIANS H.C.

A big shout out to the U10 and U8 teams who will have the thrilling opportunity to play in Nowlan Park at half time during the Kilkenny vs Wexford hurling match on Saturday, April 25th. A fantastic experience awaits all young players involved.

LIBRARY

A flower arranging demonstration with Eva Holmes will take place in the Library on Friday, May 8th, from 2:30pm to 4:30pm. This enjoyable and creative session is perfect for anyone interested in floral design, from beginners to enthusiasts. For more information or to book your place, please contact 056 7794182.

URLINGFORD COMMUNITY CENTRE

A supportive and practical movement session “ Strong through Menopause” specifically for women navigating menopause and perimenopause will be held on April 30th at 6.30pm. Contact Suzanne on 086 8239279.

SPA UNITED AFC

Weekly results: Junior league division 1 Castlewarren Celtic 3 Spa 0, U17 girls league division 1 Thomastown 1 Spa 2, U14 girls league division 1 Spa 2 Freebooters 3, Spa 0 Evergreen 1, U14 boys league division 1A Spa 3 Freshford 0, U13 boys league division 1ASpa 1 Callan 1, U13 boys league division 2A Callan 1 Spa 1, U12 boys league division 1 Spa 0 Southend 1, Freebooters 3 Spa 0. The U10’s wrapped up their season with an away game against Freshford.

SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO

The winning numbers were 5,8,10,25. There was no jackpot winner, the two match threes winners were Shane Keegan and Anne Mulhall, who are both in the money now.

MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE

The Mill Family Resource Centre continues to provide a wide range of supports, services, and activities for individuals and families within the local community. The Centre is a welcoming and inclusive space, offering opportunities for learning, wellbeing, and social connection for people of all ages.

One of the upcoming opportunities available is the Local Training Initiative (L.T.I.) Programme. This free L.T.I. course will be starting soon and includes Driving Theory and Driving Lessons, providing participants with valuable life skills that can support employment and independence. Anyone interested in applying is encouraged to call into the Centre or make contact directly for further details and application information.

The Centre also offers weekly Maths Grinds, which are currently taking place on-site. These grinds are suitable for students preparing for the Junior Certificate as well as 5th year students and provide additional support to help build confidence and understanding in mathematics. Parents and students seeking more information are invited to contact the Centre for times, availability, and fees. A variety of essential community services are available through the Mill Family Resource Centre. These include the provision of Senior Alert Alarms, which offer peace of mind and safety for older members of the community, as well as clothes donations for those in need. The Centre also facilitates a Youth Club, community allotments, and the Cois Nore Advice Clinic, ensuring access to practical advice and supports close to home. Counselling services are available for both adults and teenagers, offering a confidential and supportive environment. Counselling supports include bereavement counselling, addiction support, and general counselling, helping individuals navigate life’s challenges with professional guidance. In addition, Play Therapy is available for young people aged 4 years and over, providing a child-centred approach to emotional wellbeing and development.

The Centre’s Active Retirement Group meets every Thursday from 2pm to 4pm. This group offers a relaxed and social setting where members can enjoy activities, conversation, and companionship. New members are always welcome, and the group continues to grow as a valued part of the Centre’s weekly programme.

The Youth Club has now returned and takes place every Wednesday from 5pm to 6.30pm. It is open to boys and girls aged 8 to 12 years, and new members are always encouraged to join. The club provides a safe, fun, and supervised space for young people to socialise, take part in activities, and build friendships. For further details, please contact Sue at the Centre.

Community gardening is also supported through the Centre’s allotments, with free beds available in

the polytunnels for anyone interested in growing their own produce. The cost is just €15 per year, making it an affordable and rewarding activity. Those interested should get in touch with the Centre. Finally, there is an open invitation to any men interested in setting up a Men’s Shed in the area. This initiative would provide a valuable social and practical outlet, and anyone interested is asked to contact Sue at the Mill Family Resource Centre on 056 883 8466.

For more information on any of the services or activities available, please contact the Centre directly. You should call in it’s fantastic.

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 Eucharist on Monday 27th April at 10am in Gortnahoe Church.

CASHEL AND EMLY ARCHDIOCESAN

The pilgrimage to Lourdes will take place from June 12th, (five nights) led by Archbishop Kieran O’Reilly. For information and booking contact Joe Walsh Tours @ 01 2410800. Assisted pilgrims contact Fr Joe Tynan, 087 2225445, New Helpers contact Jacqueline 089 4913351. Email lourdespilgrimage@cashel-emly.ie

PATRICK FEENEY IN CONCERT

On Saturday April 25th in Bóthar na Naomh Church, Thurles at 8pm. Ticket Donation: €30. Proceeds towards Cathedral Reroofing Project. Tickets available from Thurles Parish Centre (0504 22229), Bookworm, Liberty Square (0504 22257) and Holycross Parish Office (0504 43124).

ARTS GROUP

Expressive Arts Group for Children A fun arts and crafts group encouraging creativity and selfexpression for children. Starting soon on Thursday evenings in Glengoole Hall. For information or to register interest please contact: Chloe – 086 121 6343

DANCE CLASSES

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

PILATES WITH RUTH

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

GORTNAHOE BINGO

Bingo will continue this Saturday evening at 4.00pm with doors opening from 3.00pm and will continue each Saturday evening at the same time. Over €2,660 in prize money on offer including a special €500 game. New support is always appreciated.

SPLIT THE POT

Congratulations to Gearoid O’Mahoney, Grangewho won €253 in the Split the Pot draw last Sunday. Envelopes are available in Cahill’s Gortnahoe, Hogans Grange, Mary Willie’s, Gortnahoe Hall and any member of the committee, you can also Revolut to 0876777220. Split the Pot for April is in aid of Kilcooley Way. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated.

IN OUR HANDS’

Preserving our cathedral is a fundraising campaign that we hope will encourage people to support the reroofing project by donating towards the cost of the slates. Estimated cost is €2.5m. Let us preserve our sacred Cathedral, protect its rich history and ensure it continues to inspire for generations to come! For more information visit http://www. inourhandsthurles.ie. Thanks to all who have purchased slates since the beginning of Phase 2 Fundraising venture. Total raised to date €1,412,933. MAY ROCHFORD RIP

The death has occurred of May Rochford (née Tuohy), Glebe House, Fennor, Gortnahoe and formerly Bridgetown, Killaloe, Co. Clare. May passed away peacefully in the loving care of nurses and staff at Padro Pio Nursing Home Holycross, in the presence of her family. Predeceased by her husband Seamus, her parents Martin and Mary, brother Pajoe and sister Cathy (Pearse). Sadly, missed and remembered with love by her family, Marie, Colette, Caroline and Patrick, son-in-law Melvin, daughterin-law Katrina, adored grandchildren Seán, James, Thérése, Sarah and Grace, sisters-in-law Carmel

and Mary, brother-in-law Vincent, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and a wide circle of friends. May reposed at Doyle’s funeral home, Urlingford followed by removal to the Church of the Sacred Heart, Gortnahoe. Requiem Mass took place last followed by interment in Fennor Cemetery. May she rest in peace.

MURT DUGGAN RIP

The death has occurred of Murt Duggan MRCVS, Beloved husband of Margaret and loving father to Brian, Tomás and Maria. Murt will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by his family, His adored grandchildren Mia, Lauren, Jack, John, Faye, Sally and Tom. Daughters-in-law Helena and Lucy and son-in-law Damien. Also sadly missed by his brother Tom and sister Mary. Predeceased by his parents Tom and Molly, brother Paddy, sisters Joan and Sally and baby daughter Angela Mary. Murt reposed at his residence. Removal from his home took place to The Church Of The Assumption, Ballingarry for Funeral Mass followed by burial in the Old Church Cemetery, Ballingarry. May he rest in peace.

ANNE HEALY RIP

The death has occurred of Anne Healy (nee Gilmartin), Mill Road, Ballynonty. Anne passed away peacefully at home on 8th April surrounded by her loving family. Predeceased by her beloved husband Sean, her parents Hannah and Michael, her brothers Jack and Michael and her sister Maureen. Anne will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her daughter Miriam and her sons Seamus, Derek, Paul, John and Damien, her son in law Jim, her daughters in law Michelle, Ann-Marie, Helen, Katrina and Niamh, her brother in law and sisters in law, her adored grandchildren and great grandchildren, her nieces and nephews, her extended family, her kind neighbours and her wide circle of friends. Anne reposed at O’Connell’s Funeral Home, Killenaule. Funeral Mass took place in St. Mary’s Church, Killenaule followed by burial in Crosscannon Cemetery. May she rest in peace.

CONAHY

HURLING

The junior B hurlers lost out to Piltown in their first outing of the year in the opening round of the JJ Kavanagh and Sons Junior B League on Friday last in Piltown. Conahy managed to lead by 1-7 to 0-9 at half-time thanks to a goal from Bill Murphy. However, the home side were by far the stronger side in the second half, and Piltown were deserving winners in the end by 3-15 to 2-10, with a late Conahy goal from Sean Brennan being some consolation.

TEAM: Padraic Delaney, Frank Gunner, Padraig Gunner, Conor Hennessy, Darragh Horgan, Paddy Mullan, Harry O’Mahony, John Kennedy, Darren Cuddihy, Jack Rhatigan, Sean Brennan, Rob Ring, Billy Mulhall, Bill Murphy, Ben Duggan, J.P. Gamble, Daniel Mooney, Tommy Mulhall.

Both the junior and junior E sides are in action this coming weekend. The junior hurlers have their first competitive game of the year when they host John Lockes (Callan) on Sunday at 11.00 in Jenkinstown in the Michael Lyng Motors Division 4 League. The junior E hurlers travel to Dunnamaggin on Friday for a 7.00 throw in for their second game in the JJ Kavanagh and Sons Junior E League.

CAMOGIE

Conahy Shamrocks intermediate camogie girls lost out to a strong Dicksboro side in the Intermediate Summer League in Palmerstown on Friday night last.

The under-16 girls enjoyed better luck when they defeated Kilmacow in the Under-16 Summer League on Thursday night last. Some great scores saw the Conahy girls win out by 6-9 to 3-3.

The under-12 girls had a memorable day last Saturday when they were fortunate to travel to play in Croke Park as part of the Camán to Croker Day. The girls played three games as part of their visit and performed very well. Well, done to all the girls involved.

The under-15 girls were in action in the County Féile competition in Thomastown on Sunday. The girls performed very well but were defeated by a strong Graignamanagh side in the semi-final. Well done to all involved.

GAA CLUB LOTTO

The numbers drawn in the most recent GAA Lotto draw were 2, 21 and 32. There was no winner of the €4,500 jackpot so the consolation prize winners of €30 each were Brian Hennessy; Teilo Maher; Lucy Egan; Tim, Rose and Annie Joyce; and Fiona, Jenny and Peter Long. The promoter prize winners were John McGrath, Kay Phelan and Anne Downey. Many thanks to everyone who continues to support the GAA Club Lotto.

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, Friday at 9.30a.m. Vigil - Saturday at 8.00p.m.; Sunday at 10.00a.m. Stoneyford: Vigil - Saturday at 6.30p.m.

PRAY FOR

Anniversary Mass: Paddy Farrell, Kyleva. Mass in Hugginstown Church on Sunday 26th. April at 11.00a.m.

ROTA (FOURTH SUNDAY OF EASTER)

Readers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Catherina Roche. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Catherine Dwyer. Sunday 10.00a.m. Noreen Kenneally. Eucharistic Ministers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Barbara Smolen. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Marion Barron. Sunday 10.00a.m. Ann Power.

CONFIRMATION 2026

Confirmation will be celebrated for pupils of Monroe and Newmarket Schools on Saturday 25th. April in Hugginstown Church at 10.00a.m.

Confirmation will be celebrated for pupils of Stoneyford School on Saturday 25th. April in Stoneyford Church at 12.00Noon

TRÓCAIRE COLLECTION

We ask that all Trócaire Contributions be returned as soon as possible please.

CEMETERY MASSES

Mass will be celebrated in Calvary Cemetery on Friday 5th. June at 8.00p.m. Mass will be celebrated in Stoneyford Cemetery on Friday 3rd. July at 8.00p.m. Mass will be celebrated in Hugginstown Cemetery on Saturday 4th. July at 8.00p.m.

LOTTO

Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. Draw: Monday 13th. April 2026. Numbers: 21; 02; 13; 16. There was no winner of First 3 Numbers Drawn. There was no Jackpot winner: The €30.00. winners were Conor Shortall “On-Line”: J. O’Neill, Danganbeg; Frank Creaney, Sheepstown; “4 of Us.” c/o James Irish. Tammy Williams c/o J. Irish. 3 x €15.00 (Sellers): Deirdre Rohan; James Irish; Fred Malzard.

CONFERENCE ON STROKES

The 5th. National Conference on Stroke, organised by the South Tipperary Stroke Communication Group, will take place at the Cashel Palace Hotel, Cashel, Co. Tipperary, on Monday April 27th. commencing at 10:00a.m, with entry for viewing of support stands at 9:30am. Speakers include Professor Ronán Collins, Clinical Lead Irish National Stroke Programme, Dr. Patrick Nicholson, Consultant Neurointerventional Radiologist at Beacon Hospital, and a number of other speakers including stroke survivors. Admission is free but is by registration on Eventbrite. Please search for 2026 National Conference on Stroke.

EASTER OFFERINGS

Envelopes for the Easter Offering Collection are available at the Church Porch. Please take one and return it with your offering during the Easter Season. This offering is for the support of the priests of the Parish and the Diocese. (To donate directly.) Use IBAN: IE19 AIBK 9330 9000 0561 20 (BIC: AIBKIE2D). All Parish Property and Accounts are registered under the (Diocese of Ossory, Reg. Charity No. 20015831)

SOUTH KILKENNY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

A Lecture on ‘Memories and Memorabilia: Telling GAA Stories through Objects’ The Speaker will be Dr Siobhán Doyle. Date: Friday, 24th. April 2026 at 8.00p.m. Venue: Mullinavat Parish Hall (opposite St. Beacon’s Church) DOWN SYNDROME

Down Syndrome Kilkenny is seeking volunteer marshals to support the “Saddle Up for Down Syndrome” cycle event on Sunday 26th. April. Volunteers will be based at Danesfort GAA Club and along routes across Kilkenny from 8.00a.m. to 2.00p.m, assisting with traffic flow and guiding cyclists on three routes. Refreshments will be provided on the day. This is a fun and rewarding opportunity to support a great cause and help make a difference.

Hurlng matters - Preview

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY

EDITOR

Leinster GAA Senior Hurling Championship 2026

Round 2

Kilkenny vs Wexford

UPMC Nowlan Park

Tomorrow, 6:30pm

We move on to round 2 of the 2026 Leinster

GAA Senior Hurling Championship, and it’s simple from here on in; there is no room for anymore slip ups following last weekend’s repeat demolition in Salthill. Having suffered a horrible 17-point defeat in the league fixture, supporters were hoping for better fortune in the opening provincial encounter, but if losing by two less points is progress, the Noreside faithful could be in for further punishment in both Leinster and All-Ireland competition. A black card for Mikey Carey on 33 minutes, with the additional punishment of a penalty coupled with a straight red for Thomastown’s John Donnelly in the opening exchanges of the second half made a difficult assignment impossible and when Galway outscored their visitors 1-6 to 0-3 in the third quarter, the result was never in doubt.

Now that Salthill is in the rearview mirror, Derek Lyng and his management team will have needed to instill some belief and confidence into their panel during the last week ahead of a crucial game with Wexford. They will be hoping that the supposed home comforts of UPMC Nowlan Park can spark the team into producing a reaction that will breath some much-needed life into this Cats team. The defending provincial champions know that another defeat could see their aspirations of a seventh-straight Bob O’Keefe Cup also end up in the rearview mirror. Speaking to the assembled Media in Pearse Stadium, the Kilkenny boss was very clear:

“As far as I’m concerned now, this is game one. It’s over, we’ve lost it. It is more or less knockout for us now, and we have to face up to that. We need a quick turnaround next weekend.”

“Sport is a confidence game; there is no doubt. It’s nothing unusual. These things can happen, and it’s about character and how you turn that around as well. That is going to be asked of us and rightly so. I’m confident I know what is in the dressing room. I know they’re going to be hurting.”

Tomorrow’s visit of Wexford is the first of what Emerald’s clubman Lyng has called ‘knockout games’ and the Cats need to bounce back straight away. The Yellowbellies got the better of Kilkenny in round five of Leinster last season, and the Marble City side cannot allow that to happen tomorrow. For the past few years, it was almost unthinkable, but should Lyng’s charges not claim a 78th provincial

No room for error as Yellowbellies come to town

Lyng seeks response after Galway defeat

title on the first weekend in June, they could be looking at an extremely tricky All-Ireland quarter final against one of Munster’s big guns. Saturday’s opponents got their campaign underway with a win over Brian Dowling’s Kildare in Cedral St Conleth’s Park, and

needed a big performance from their talisman, Lee Chin whose 1-12 went a long way to ensuring his side claimed maximum points on the opening weekend. The Faythe Harriers man was in great form, and despite coming in for plenty of attention, both on and off the ball,

the former All-Star’s class was there to see. Keith Rossiter’s side played in 1B of the National League this year, and finished third, on points difference behind the Dubs and table-toppers Clare. Running up four wins from their six games, wasn’t enough to propel them back to 1A, but the Slaneysiders can be a match for many teams on their day. In Mark Fanning, they have a very experienced netminder, who normally chips in with a score or two from long range placed balls and is a great presence behind his defence. The spine of the rearguard

is usually provided by Conor Foley on the edge of the square and Richie Lawlor in the ‘6’ jersey. Flanking the talented Lawlor should be Damien Reck and Diarmuid O’Leary, both like to roam forward and join the attack when permitted. In the midfield zone, Shelmalier’s Conor Hearne will be hoping to get on top in his battle with the likes of Cian Kenny and Jordan Molloy. Hearne’s clubmate Ross Banville did well in the Newbridge win, notching 2 points in a lively performance. With the likes of Jack O’Connor and Liam Ryan sitting out the league fixtures, we saw the former

Hurling matters - Preview

make his first appearance of the season in the game against the Lilywhites. The St Martin’s clubman who was instrumental in his side defeating Shamrocks Ballyhale in the Leinster Club championship is the intercounty captain and a class

act. O’Connor, who tied the knot just before Christmas with former Kilkenny Camogie star, Grace Walsh will no doubt want to secure bragging rights in the household when he leads his side in UPMC

Nowlan Park. One player new to the senior setup this season is Simon Roche. The Oulart-the-Ballagh clubman had an impressive league campaign, hitting 1-51 and will

hope to keep his place for the clash with the Cats tomorrow.

For Kilkenny, one player that won’t be involved on Saturday is John Donnelly. The Thomastown clubman’s challenge on Galway skipper Darren Morrissey in the early stages of the second half resulted in referee Colm Lyons showing the former Cats captain a red card, no complaints on Noreside, but it continues Donnelly’s stuttering form of 2026. It will be interesting to see who comes in for Donnelly, as the Cats definitely need someone pulling the strings on the ‘40. One such player who could excel here is Adrian Mullen. The former All-Star has undergone a couple of surgeries since he was last in action, on the nasty thumb injury sustained when on Leinster duty last November and on both troublesome groins that have curtailed his involvement at all levels of hurling over the last 12 months. Speaking recently, the flame-haired stickman is hopeful that he will play some part in this season’s provincial series.

Goals are so important and this Kilkenny side needs to rediscover their ‘major’ touch. They coughed up two or three chances in the latest defeat to Galway and really need to be raising more green flags if they are to get back to competing at the business end. Gearoid Dunne, who came in to start ahead of Tom Phelan, was one player that didn’t take his goal chance, while Jordan Molloy fired over when under seemed likely. Again, TJ top scored for his side, but only Eoin hit more than one score from the rest of the team. A real lack of fluidity and threat from those in black and amber and this needs to change sharpish.

A response is required from the Cats tomorrow, to ensure that we get back on track in terms of provincial defence. The Supporters need to get out and get behind the team in numbers and bring the noise; the players need to give them something to shout about and believe in, but it all starts with the players, tomorrow evening we need them to believe and more

Jordan Molloy and David Blanchfield - will hope to bounce back at home

Cian Kenny will hope to win midfield battle

Derek Lyng will need to get his side up for Wexford challenge

Planning notices

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Patrick O’Brien am applying to Kilkenny County Council for planning permission for development at Ballyoskill, Attanagh, Co. Kilkenny, in the townland of Ballyoskill.

The development will consist of the following: (1) Carry out significant renovation / refurbishment & alteration works to the existing abandoned derelict dwelling. (2) Part demolition and reconstruction, including raising wall plate & ridgeline to existing single storey side annexe and change of use of same from shed to residential use as part of the main dwelling. (3) Construction of a new single storey extension to the rear of the dwelling. (4) Construction of a new single storey out-building to include domestic garage, home office & hobby room. (5) Installation of a new on-site sewage treatment system, including all associated site development works.

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

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Kells Sports Centre T/A Kells Handball Club, hereby intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Planning Permission for the construction of a part two-storey and part single storey extension to the side of our existing clubhouse building and all associated site works at Kells Handball Club, Kells, Co. Kilkenny R95 AY82.

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

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

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

NOTICE OF SIGNIFICANT FURTHER INFORMATION/REVISED PLANS.

I, Liam Kehoe, in relation to a Notice of Further Information Request received from the Planning Authority on my planning application, planning reference 2560258, for planning permission for development at Pennyfeather Lane, Kilkenny. The development will consist of: (a) clearance works on a 0.034ha site including the demolition of an existing single storey building; (b) the construction of a four storey hostel with setback 4th-floor level and plantroom at roof level, comprising of a reception area, toilet facilities, 13 No. bedrooms with a mix of ensuites and off-suite facilities, communal kitchen/dining/ living areas and staff facilities; (c) bicycle parking spaces; (d) communal open space (e) landscaping (f) drainage works and connection to services and (g) all associated site development works to facilitate the development. The proposed development site is located within the Patrick Street Architectural Conservation Area.

I, hereby give notice that Significant Further Information/Revised Plans 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 and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

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

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

Planning Permission sought for demolition of single storey rear detached youth service buildings, construction of three storey rear extension for youth activities and associated office use, alterations to existing Desart Hall building and ancillary related works at Desart Hall, Lower New Street. Applicant: Ossory Youth Services Ltd.

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

Architects: BLUETT & O’DONOGHUE www.boda.ie

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Must promise publication of prayer. D.McC.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Must promise publication of prayer. M.M.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Must promise publication of prayer. B.ON.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.M.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. B.ON.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.B.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Must promise publication of prayer. M.B.L.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Must promise publication of prayer. A.B.