Food in ation has dropped to its lowest level in 10 months but prices are still rising in the double digits, according to research group Kantar. A survey of more than 30,000 products in Irish supermarkets revealed that shoppers paid 12.8% more for these goods in the 12 weeks to August 6, compared with the same period last year. is was down 1.9% from
the gure reported by Kantar last month, while August marks the third month in a row where there has been a dip in grocery price in ation. As in ation continues to decline, shoppers are noticing some price cuts on supermarket shelves.
“Compared to May 2023, when grocery in ation hit its highest peak of 16.5%, we are starting to see a slight decline
Universities have received almost 30,000 more applications than they have beds from students for on-campus accommodation in the upcoming academic year.
With little or no availability in the private rented market, it points to a severe student accommodation crisis when the new college year gets under way next month.
ere are three applications for every student bed on university campuses, according to gures supplied by the colleges to the Department of Further and Higher Education.
Meanwhile, Minister for Further and Higher Education Simon Harris and Minister for Housing Darragh O’Brien have announced their joint plan to develop design standards for Purpose Built Student Accommodation (PBSA) in Ireland.
in average prices on essential lines,” Business Development Director Emer Healy said.
Consumers are now spending 36c less on butter, milk and cheese combined, Kantar reported.
“ e average increase in the household weekly grocery shop is €9.10 compared to last year, well below the extra €17.80 shoppers would have paid if they bought the same
items 12 months ago based on the current rate of in ation,” Ms Healy said.
Meanwhile, households are paying almost €1,000 more every year for their electricity than the European average.
New gures indicate electricity prices here are the highest in Europe, €900 a year more compared with the EU average.
Bills here are 80% higher
than the European Union average, according to the Household Energy Price Index.
Its latest survey shows electricity prices here are the highest of the 32 capitals surveyed.
“Dublin and London are the most expensive cities for household customers in Europe, followed by Prague, Riga and Berlin,” a press re-
lease issued with the index said. e Household Energy Price Index shows that the cost in this country of a unit of electricity is 47.12c per kilowatt hour (kWh), when taxes are included. is is almost twice the European Union average of 26.34c
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Hot on the heels of the Eris Covid variant, which is currently being blamed for a rise in cases, here comes another Omicron o -shoot now dubbed the “real deal”. Scientists are now on alert for the latest variant, BA.2.86, to emerge. It has sparked concern because it has a lot of mutations in its spike protein, the part of the virus which fastens on to human cells and causes infection.
A case has yet to be con rmed in Ireland but it was found in the UK last week so if previous patterns are anything to go by, particularly due to the holiday season, it may already be here too.
e Irish Council for Social Housing (ICSH) has announced that two housing projects in Kilkenny have been shortlisted for the prestigious ICSH Allianz Community Housing Awards. e Irish Council for Social Housing (ICSH) has announced that both projects are shortlisted in the regen -
eration category. e biennial awards recognise excellence across various di erent categories of public housing delivery by both local authorities and Approved Housing Bodies (AHBs)
CEO of the ICSH Donal McManus said: “ e quality of entries for the 2023 Com -
munity Housing Awards is of the highest standard yet. I was particularly impressed by the innovation shown across the regeneration category.
“Choosing which projects to shortlist was a di cult task and speaks to the dedication of all those working across housing associations
and local authorities as they deliver much needed homes across the country.”
Projects shortlisted for the ICSH Allianz Community Housing Awards are also competing in the ICSH Public Choice Award. is category gives members of the public an opportunity to support a shortlisted project.
ese are the 11th Biennial National Community Housing Awards which were rst established in 2003.
e public can vote for their favourite project at www. icsh.ie from early October.
e winners will be announced at the ICSH Conference in Wexford on October 18-19.
e nalists for Blas na hÉireann, e Irish Food Awards, 2023 have been announced with seven entries from Kilkenny. e countdown is now on for the return of the awards weekend to Dingle. e three-day event will take place from ursday, September 28 to Saturday 30.
e nalists shortlisted from Co. Kilkenny across a range of di erent categories are Callan Bacon, Eurospar Kilkenny, Goatsbridge Fish Processors Ltd, Highbank Orchards, Lekker food collection, Lisduggan Farm Foods and Outdoor Herbalist.
Full story Page 4
e nalists for Blas na hÉireann, e Irish Food Awards, 2023 have been announced and the countdown is now on for the return of the awards weekend to Dingle. e three-day event will take place from ursday, September 28 to Saturday 30.
e nalists shortlisted from Co. Kilkenny across a range of di erent categories are Callan Bacon, Eurospar Kilkenny, Goatsbridge Fish Processors Ltd, Highbank Orchards, Lekker food collection, Lisduggan Farm Foods [pictured] and Outdoor Herbalist.
After the joyous reunion of last year’s in-person event for the rst time in two years, the excitement is already building and the Blas team are hard at work preparing for the arrival of food and drink producers across Ireland to celebrate the very best of Irish.
Now in its 16th year, Blas na hÉireann saw its highest entries from across all categories along with many new producers entering the awards for the rst time this year. During the judging, which took place over June and July, more than 3,000 entries were judged, the highest on record.
Speaking as the nalists were announced, Blas na hÉireann Chairperson Artie
Cli ord said: “After last year’s success, we are thrilled to be back again. e Blas village and Eat Ireland in a Day tents were a fantastic addition and created brilliant awareness for the nalists and winners to both the public and key industry people.
“Seeing so many new producers enter this year is testament to the fantastic produce Ireland has to o er and I am looking forward to celebrating past and new nalists and winners again this year.” is year’s Blas na hÉireann awards in Dingle will see the return of last year’s new additions including the Eat Ireland in a Day tent and the Blas Village where the 2023 nalists will get the opportunity to showcase their products, engage with customers and meet key industry buyers.
With over 3,000 products entered in this year’s Blas na hÉireann, making it as analist is a huge achievement and one to be very proud of. e competition ramps up year on year, meaning those producers who are short listed as nalists really are the crème de la crème of Irish food and drink.
Tributes are being paid to a Kilkenny man who died following a drowning incident abroad.
Paul Carroll, who was in his mid 40s, and was living in Osaka, Japan died two weeks ago. It remains unclear where the incident took place.
The father-of-two was originally from Desart, Cuffesgrange, 12kms from
Kilkenny city. A spokesperson for the Department of Foreign A airs has said it is aware of the case and has been liaising with the Carroll family.
“ e Department of Foreign A airs is aware of the case and is providing consular assistance. As with all consular cases, the department does not comment on the details of any speci c case,” the
As households grapple with a cost-of-living crisis, there are hopes that consumers could see their energy bills fall in coming months as the market gets a shake-up from a new entrant.
Newcomer Yuno Energy is promising it could save customers more than €500 a year on their electricity bills by closely monitoring their energy usage at home.
Consumer groups are hoping it will force rivals to cut their prices, providing some respite for consumers struggling with higher bills for everything from energy to food.
Daragh Cassidy, Head of Communications with price comparison site bonkers. ie, said the launch of a new energy provider was good news for consumers. He said he hoped the fresh competition would force other providers to cut their prices in coming weeks.
“Most households should be able to save a few hundred euro on their annual electricity bill with Yuno,” he said.
“An Electric Ireland customer on standard rates with a 24-hour meter and who uses an average amount of electricity would save around €260 over the year by moving to Yuno’s xed tari for example.
Bord Gáis Energy’s customers would save even more.”
Yuno Energy customers receive a bill at the start of the month for their expected usage over the coming month.
e predicted bill is based on
spokesperson added.
Mr Carroll is predeceased by his parents Paul and Maureen.
A death notice on rip.ie reads: “Passed away due to a drowning accident on Saturday, August 12th, 2023.
“Deeply regretted by his sorrowing wife Tomomi, son Luke, daughter Maria, sisters Angela, Geraldine and Noreen, brother-in-
law Louis, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins and extended family and friends in Japan, neighbours and a large circle of friends worldwide.”
Callan CBS Secondary School paid tribute to Mr Carroll. In a statement they said that they were “so sad” to hear of the “passing past pupil Paul Carroll rip (class of 95-96). Sincere sympa-
thies to his family in Japan and here in Ireland. Ar dheis Dé a anam.”
While another close friend added: “Our sincere condolences to Tomomi, Luke, Maria, Angela, Geraldine, Noreen and Louis. We are heartbroken at the loss of Paul.
“His larger than life personality, bear hugs and the most wonderful smile will
be missed by us. He never missed a happy birthday message, nor a greeting and message for any other occasion.
“His love for his wife and children was obvious for us all to see and the love for travel and adventure that he has given them. He is resting in the arms of his Mam and Dad now who he so greatly missed.”
their previous energy usage.
As the month progresses, customers with a smart meter can accurately determine through a Yuno Energy app how much electricity they’re using and adjust their energy consumption accordingly to try to ensure they don’t spend more than what their predicted energy bill was for the month.
Yuno Energy has insisted that the unit rate it is o ering for its electricity is the cheapest in the market, at 38.04 cents per kilowatt hour, including Vat.
It also says that customers without a smart meter can still sign up for the service and the rm will then contact the ESB to request a smart meter for their home.
e new provider is part of the same group that owns Prepaypower, which operates a di erent service model.
Launched in 2010, Prepaypower allows customers to buy electricity credit at any time. at credit is then used to pay for their electricity as they consume it.
Prepaypower has more than 175,000 electricity customers and about 60,000 gas customers. It employs more than 400 people.
Prepaypower founder and chief executive Cathal Fay told the Irish Independent that Yuno Energy is being backed with a multi-million-euro investment, including a major publicity campaign.
This Sunday, August 27, around 50 members will be travelling to Kilkenny from Bradford in Yorkshire on Tour. Hot Aire! is an exciting concert band with trumpets, saxophones, clarinets, flutes, trombones… and more! They look forward to welcoming enthusiastic audi -
ences at three concerts, which will be great fun and entertaining for all the family. Their repertoire includes music from theatre, films and popular music.
On Monday, August 28 they will perform a one hour concert in the grounds of Kilkenny
Castle, starting at 2.00 pm.
Tuesday, August 29 sees another one hour concert at 11.00 am on the Bandstand at Bray seafront.
Thursday,August 31 at 8.00pm will see a joint evening concert with St Patrick’s and Reed Band at St Patrick’s Catholic Church in Kilkenny.
Hot Aire! love to go on musical tours to gain cultural experiences. Previous tours have included Valkenburg, Holland, Germany, Belgium, Orkney and The Isle of Wight. Their Musical Director is Stephen Bradnum. www.hotaire.org
Fianna Fáil MEP Billy Kelleher has said that the current mandate given to the European Central Bank (ECB) in terms of price stability and the 2% in ation rule may no longer be t for purpose.
Mr Kelleher, a member of the European Parliament’s Economics and Monetary A airs (ECON) Committee, was commenting ahead of the Parliament’s return this week.
“At present, Article 127 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union
(TFEU) states quite clearly that the ECB’ primary objective is to maintain price stability. What this means, in essence, is the need to maintain in ation across the Eurozone at, or as close to, 2%.
“What we have seen over the past 18 months is the ECB increasing rates to force down in ation. It’s the only tool that they have as it’s their primary objective.
“Ultimately ECB decision makers are making macroeconomic decisions without really understanding the
pressure they are forcing onto families and workers,” he said.
“Homeowners and businesses cannot absorb any more interest rate rises. It’s severely damaging their ability to live, grow and prosper.”
Mr Kelleher said we faced the very real risk of killing the Eurozone economy by putting it into recession in an e ort to curb in ation that is caused, in a large part, by external issues that the Eurozone really cannot control.
“ e ECB needs other mechanisms and tools in its arsenal. It also needs to move away from its sole objective of price stability and place more emphasis on economic growth, jobs and the e ects its decisions will have on families and workers.
“Treaty change may be required. I know we are all scarred by European referenda in Ireland but the alternative is signi cantly worse, especially if we run the risk of a recession and growing Euroscepticism,” he said.
Weather trouble ahead as El Niño to stick around
Striking re ghters in left their picket line last week to come to the aid of a young woman who had a suspected heart attack. Despite being ‘o the run’, the re ghters immediately responded to the call.
Fire ghters around the country are involved in a drawn-out strike action where 50% of re stations are withdrawing their service on a rotating basis in a dispute over pay and conditions.
In Kilkenny and Carlow, this means that means that certain town and villages are ‘o the run’ for calls every second day and the opposite for every other town or village.
e part-time re ghters in coming to that woman’s aid did the right thing. Instinctively. at goes without me having to say it. But I say it, and I’ll say it again. ey did the right thing. Instinctively.
ose on the frontline
looking after us – our local re ghters, our paramedics, our nurses, our carers – do so, day in and day out, tirelessly and sel essly because that is what they do. Instinctively. ey are made of better stu than you or me.
ey are heroes. And for too long, down the years, we have undervalued them, and underpaid them, and taken them for granted.
Rather, we should honour and reward the tremendous sacri ces made by those we increasingly have come to call our rst responders. Everyday they work to make our communities stronger and safer, and look after us when ill and in time of need. ey do so quietly, in the way they serve their community and the strength they show.
Being a hero isn’t about the uniform you wear or how strong you are; it’s about having a heart to serve people. Our re ghters and
paramedics and nurses are special people with special qualities, not least empathy and understanding – and sel essness
eir work hours are often long and unpredictable. Fireghters can’t control when a re starts; they just have to stop it. Every day, they put their safety on the line for the rest of us. ey run into dangerous situations, so we don’t have to, sometimes risking their lives in the process.
Another quality that sets rst responders apart is their commitment to people when o duty. Not only do they have the skill and sel essness to save somebody from a dangerous situation, but they also have the compassion to help them after the fact.
ere are plenty of rst responders whose acts of kindness in their personal lives have had a signi cant impact on others.
I know this on a personal
level but rather stay mute on the matter.
However, here’s another story. My cousin Mark Hopkins, a week older than me, recently visited from Los
Angeles and he and his wife
Heike stayed in an airbnb near me and we had a wonderful 10 days together. He retired as Captain of the LA Fire Department at 55 after more than 30 years as a fulltime rst responder.
One evening we were sitting on the patio, looking out towards the mountains, shooting the breeze over a couple of Jemmies. Our conversation covered a multitude of sins, including getting old and retirement, and on how life had been good or otherwise to us both.
“You must have seen a lot of heartache and devastation in your years as a reman,” I suggested. “ e death and devastation. e broken bodies.”
He took a sip from his glass and momentarily re ected, looking out to the mountains. “Indeed,” he said,” and I could never really talk about it to Heike or the kids
growing up.
“But do you know there were so many lives, so many, that my unit and I, thankfully, saved down the years. at’s the good side of the job. at makes it all the worth while doing.”
He paused, took another sip of his whiskey, and was, again, momentarily lost in his thoughts. He composed himself, turned to me and said: “But you know it’s not the many you save down the years that stay with you but rather the ones you didn’t manage to save. ere was a little boy once, just fouryears-old. We managed to get his family out from the blaze safely. But he ... he I could not reach. Could not save. “ at was many years ago. But there’s not a day goes by but I think of him...”
* At time of going to print the reserve fire servcies have called o their strike
Fine Gael MEP for Ireland South, Deirdre Clune has welcomed new EU rules designed to curb potentially harmful practices carried out through online service providers and large social media platforms such as Amazon, TikTok and Facebook.
MEP Clune, a Member of the European Parliament’s Internal Market & Consumer Protection Committee said, “on the 25th August, the EU Digital Services Act (DSA) will come into force, compelling large internet service providers and social media companies to open up their systems to EU scrutiny and prove that they’re taking
signi cant steps to ensure they are protecting users online.
" ese new rules will empower consumers by giving them the right to opt-out from recommendation systems based on pro ling, while online platforms will be obliged to label all ads and inform users on who is promoting them", MEP Clune added.
By the end of this month, digital platforms with over 45 million users in the European Union will have to comply with the new rules.
“ ese changes will greatly enhance digital transparency and accountability and
the DSA is a welcome move towards harmonizing standards for online service providers across Europe.
" e rst practical test for online service providers and social media companies will be to submit an annual assessment of the major impact of their design, algorithms, advertising and terms of services on a range of societal issues.
“ e coming into force of the DSA marks a major milestone in placing stronger safeguards for these online players in terms of risk management, tackling disinformation, transparency and content moderation”, MEP Clune concluded.
“Rather the ones you didn’t save that stay with you...
Mep Clune - new eu rules to enhance online safety coming into force
Irish exports to the Arab world reached €1.46 billion for the rst half of 2023 with notable increases in exports to Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Morocco and Tunisia. e CEO of the Arab Irish Chamber of Commerce, Ahmad Younis said that, while Ireland was trading strongly with the Middle East and Gulf, “it’s a region that is still un-
derexploited in terms of the opportunities for Irish businesses”.
e Arab world comprises 22 countries, many of which are experiencing rapidly growing economies, and populations. Countries such as Saudi Arabia are investing billions of dollars in infrastructure, urban development and
A Kilkenny man has drowned in Norway while deep sea diving. Daniel O’ Brien, who was 33-yearsold, was originally from Graiguenamanagh, Co Kilkenny.'
Mr O’Brien was a former member of the Air Corps and worked as an aviation engineer. The highly experienced water sportsman had successfully rowed across the Atlantic Ocean. He was known to be a “self-effacing man about his amazing sporting achievements,” a local person who knew him well said.
The Department of Foreign Affairs has been contacted for comment.
Mourners attending the funeral of Daniel O'Brien were asked to wear 'bright colours' to help celebrate his life.
Emotional tributes have been flooding in for Daniel O'Brien, from St. Mullins Road, Graiguenamanagh.
The death of the deepsea diver has shocked the local community, who have been rallying in support of his family.
One person offering condolences wrote: "So sorry to hear the unbelievably tragic news about Daniel. We were all so fond of him when Mam minded him all those years ago. There was something so special about
Daniel, that lovely glint in his eye."
Daniel is survived by his heartbroken parents, Pauline and Fiachra, brothers Tommy and Ciaran, partner Ingvill, grandmother Brigid, Pauline's partner Michael, Fiachra's partner Esther, sister-inlaw Amy, aunts, uncles, cousins and a wide circle of friends and relations.
Another person wrote that his "outstanding character" and care for others left an "everlasting impression" on them.
"I met Danny through the kayaking club at college. He always knew how to brighten up my day. I had many a crazy day with him that I’ll never forget, and still remember how I would drive him nuts by swimming every time I went kayaking with him," one tribute read.
Daniel's reposing tookplace at his residence on Sunday, August 20.
The removal took place on Monday, August 21, to Duiske Abbey, Graiguenamanagh, arriving for funeral mass at 10am, followed by cremation at Mount Jerome Crematorium, Harold's Cross, Dublin.
"To help celebrate Daniel's life, those attending the funeral are asked to wear bright colours," his RIP death notice asks.
tourism and, with trade agreements with the EU making access to these markets easier than ever before, the potential for Irish businesses to tap into these markets is signi cant.
In addition to merchandise, the Arab Irish Chamber of Commerce estimates that trade in services, worth an estimated €4 billion in 2022, will
meet if not exceed the overall value of goods exported to the Arab states this year.
On the back of the latest export gures, Ahmad Younis outlined details of an Arab Irish conference, which will take place at the Mansion House in Dublin on September 13. “Whether you are already doing business there
or looking to expand your operation beyond Ireland, the Arab Irish Business Forum is a must-attend event for any Irish business.
"It will feature an experienced line-up of speakers from the Arab states alongside business leaders from Ireland who can o er unique insight into their experiences with the
A recent Retirement Pulse survey conducted by Standard Life found lower levels of pension and retirement planning in Leinster and Dublin when compared to the national average. e results revealed that people in the province and city are more likely to be nancially unprepared for retirement (46%), in comparison to the national average of 43% and in comparison, to Munster (42%) and Connacht / Ulster (35%).
Perhaps as a result, retirees in Leinster report comparatively lower levels of happiness, with 75% indicating overall happiness in retirement, in contrast to Connacht/Ulster and
Munster with 93% and 94% respectively.
More generally, ndings from Standard Life’s latest Retirement Pulse indicate varying degrees of knowledge nationally on pensions and retirement. Most signi cantly, the survey results illustrated a lack of knowledge surrounding auto-enrolment with over 70% of respondents stating they were unaware of or lacking information on the government scheme.
Findings also show diverging opinions regarding the ideal age to commence pension contributions. On average, pension holders started contributing to their pensions at 28 years old,
whereas non-retired adults without a pension believe that 31 is a suitable age to begin. ere is also a generational split when it came to the opinion on when is the best time to start a pension, with Millennials believing 31.8 years old is a good age to start, two years older than the younger Gen Z who report 29.8 years old to be a good age.
Broadly, the sentiment towards pensions remains strong, with nearly threequarters (73%) of respondents viewing having a pension to be essential.
Almost 8 in 10 (78%) workers say an employer’s contribution towards their pension is a very important
region and its oportunities.”
“Traditionally, Irish businesses and senior executives with expertise in sectors such as technology, aviation, infrastructure and tourism have done very well in the Arab world,” said Ahmad Younis. * Registration is open now at www.arabirishbusinessforum.ie
factor when considering a new job. Almost four in ten (38%) of those working and without a pension plan on starting one at some point in the future.
e Government’s planned automatic retirement savings scheme aims to increase pension coverage amongst an estimated 750,000 workers currently with no form of occupational pension coverage. However, the Standard Life Retirement Pulse found that awareness amongst those whom the scheme aims to target is low with 46% of those working, without a pension claiming to be completely unaware of the plan.
Contractors are urging the Government to put a National Contingency Plan in place to allow for an extension of the period for slurry spreading from October 1 to October 15, 2023 due to ongoing di cult harvesting conditions.
Ongoing poor weather in 2023 is proving to be a dicult silage and cereal harvest-
ing and, after weeks of heavy rainfall, agricultural contractors have requested the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage of Ireland, Darragh O’Brien, TD and Minister for Agriculture, Food, and the Marine, Mr Charlie McConalogue, TD, to extend the period for slurry spreading to October 15, 2023, as the deadline dates
will be impossible to achieve due to ongoing poor harvesting for grass silage and tillage crops.
e Association of Farm Contractors in Ireland (FCI), the national association representing Agricultural & Forestry Contractors in Ireland, has written to both ministers requesting that they immediately use the powers available
to them under SI 113 of 2022, to extend the period for slurry spreading from October 1 to October 15, 2023, against the background of approved scienti c criteria.
FCI is looking for the Ministers to put a National Contingency Plan in place now, rather than waiting until the end of September.
is National Contingency
Plan will allow farmers to plan their workload in conjunction with their agricultural contractors, where the priorities remain to maintain environmental safety as well as the safety of agricultural contractor employees who in the absence of such a plan will simply not be able to achieve the work objectives of their farming clients.
is will allow for the completion of the crop harvests, grass, maize and cereals. It will then allow for full utilisation of excess organic slurry nutrients that are now being produced on livestock farms as animals are being housed earlier than usual or have been held back for later applications, due to unprecedented wet weather.
It’s been a case of goodbye tracksuits and trainers and hello o ce wear recently as Working From O ce morphs into hybrid working. And dress code at work now depends on the type of employment, casual for creatives and IT types or suits for professionals. But suppose you don’t have a choice and you have to wear the same gear as your coworkers?
At a time of year when we are thinking about the backto-school kind, uniforms and appearance have hit the headlines. Uniforms are required wear for the forces and they represent the distinctive public image of organisations from airlines to post o ce workers and I have to say there is something about a uniform which can confer authority and respect.
But what happens when the wearers object to their uniform or an organisation takes exception to a member’s appearance? An Aer Lingus cabin crew member has kicked up over the requirement to wear medium or high heels with the Kenmare green and navy uniforms, designed by Louise Kennedy. Women cabin crew can come down to earth while in the air but once back on ground the heels have to go on. e Labour Court decided that the rule was “unfavourable on grounds of gender”. Sensible decision: male cabin crew don’t have to enhance their shapely legs with heels. Besides stomping miles to and from departure gates in heels is hard on the feet especially if you have been on them all day. At least the frogs’ legs look
wasn’t involved – remember back in the day when Aer Lingus Hostesses were required to wear green tights?
e complainant had a few other gripes like handbags for female sta , not big enough to hold documents or nightwear whereas male colleagues are issued with satchels. When requirements about uniforms don’t take the comfort and practicality into account they need to change. But rules about uniforms can get set in stone and are hard to alter – look at how long it has taken for some schools to allow girls to wear trousers instead of skirts. Successful airline uniform designs can be truly iconic, like the beige pinstripe suits for Emirates female cabin crew worn with a distinctive carmine pillbox hat with a draped veil. e uniform
was commissioned from an English uniform company whereas airlines often use designers like Pierre Balmain who created the gorgeous sarongs for Singapore Airlines hostesses.
e Labour Court decision here does underscore the need to be aware of equality and gender stereotyping when it comes to uniforms, so perhaps we are heading towards unisex wear. A pity in some ways to lose the appeal of feminine and masculine appearance, we haven’t heard from guys complaining that they ought be allowed to wear skirts. Not yet anyway.
How far should bosses be allowed to go with rules about physical appearance when it comes to things like hairstyles, beards or makeup? is question became an issue for three Gardai
cadets attending Templemore who were suspended from training and told that they must have the tattoos on their arms removed.
Currently the Gardai rules for appearance require that tattoos shouldn’t be visible. Previously the long sleeves of the old uniform would have kept body inking hidden but the shortsleeved T-shirts of the new Garda uniform leave them exposed. Tough on the recruits who will now have to undergo expensive laser treatment to remove the designs.
Maybe this rule is a bit old school and it’s time for a rethink given the recruitment crisis. Besides tattoos have lost their stigma, with around a third of young people have some form of body art. Last year the force, which has conserva-
tive rules about hair length and colours, relented on the issue of now fashionable beards, which are permitted provided they are kept trim. But, while those in uniform are chipping away at the rules there is a trend for an increasing number of workers to opt for uniforms independently. Shortlisted for the EQ Entrepreneur of the year husband and wife team Rosie Connolly and Paul Quinn spotted a gap in the market four years ago. e pair say 4th ARQ (their fourth baby and ARQ means home) is a brand of lifestyle uniforms with a mission to make people feel their best and look great in tune with a fashion paradigm that has shifted.
Something to be said for the uniform look after all, especially if you get to choose it yourself.
is time of year, many of you, not me I have to say, will be training for a marathon. I am sure that you will have a good training program in place and won’t need advice from me about that. But maybe these tips could be helpful for some of you. For example, you might be experiencing achy or sore joints when running. If so, the main supplements that I think of are Omega 3 oils, Turmeric, and Glucosamine. Eskimo Omega 3 sh Oil is one of our
customer’s favourites. Liquid is preferrable but you can also get a one-a-day extra strength capsule. To help keep in ammation in check you can take turmeric powder or you can get it in capsule form, or you can you get it in supplements such as Zincu ex. It contains Turmeric and Ginger, two natural anti-in ammatory herbs.
With Glucosamine which may help prevent further deterioration of the joints, there’s lots of supplements to choose from. You could choose a supplement with Glucosamine only or you could look at Revive Active Joint Complex. is is a comprehensive super supplement
with Glucosamine, Collagen, MSM and other nutrients to support bone and joint health in a one-a-day powder sachet. Or if you prefer tablets there’s Nature’s Aid Glucosamine Complex.
Viridian Sport Electorlyte Mix is a perfect blend of mineral of salts to help you rehydrate after intensive training. Simply add to your bottle of water when needed.
I know that cramps can be a problem for some of you. Even if you already take Magnesium, it could be handy to have a bottle of Better You Magnesium Spray Oil with you to massage into your legs if they cramp up after a run. A popular supplement is Ashwagandha. One Nutrition is my go-to brand. Ashwagandha supports energy levels, helps the body copes with stress, and it can help build muscle.
Lactic Acid build up can be a cause of sore and aching muscles. Active Edge Montmorency Cherry Juice has been traditionally used to help runners and cyclists recover after training.
For minor injuries have a tube of A.Vogel Arnica Gel to hand . It’s perfect for muscle and tendon pain and bruises too.
e best of luck to all running a marathon this year.
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Kilkenny Amateur eatre Society (KATS) have a treat in store for the people of the south east. ey are bringing their rst feature length to e Watergate eatre stage in four years, their last outing being Bram Stoker's Dracula in 2019. ey are clearly no strangers to provocative plays. is time, it is none other than 'Eclipsed', written by Patricia Burke Brogan
KATS can proudly boast to being Kilkenny’s oldest amateur theatre group, having been established in 1986 by Michael Casey. Now, nearing their anniversary, Kats continue their long-standing tradition of entertaining thousands of people.
Since those early years, KATS have performed farcical comedies like 'Noises O ', e Odd Couple to big American dramas such as Arthur Miller's e Crucible.
In more recent years KATS have brought to the Watergate stage Roddy Doyle’s, hilarious War, the psychological rollercoaster One Flew Over e Cuckoo's Nest, the acclaimed e Elephant Man and the disturbing but entertaining A Clockwork Orange. is year they have embarked on the portrayal of a dark side of Irish history with 'Eclipsed'. ree years in the making, this play in its completion is all the more satisfying.
Originally proposed by then-committee-member
Niall O'Riordan and set to be directed by him, four weeks prior to it's initial staging, we had to abandon ship due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In February 2023, the current committee decided to reignite the production, with Delia Lowery taking on the role of director. It is no easy feat rehearsing and putting a show, especially over the summer holidays, when holiday plans and prior commitments are
abundant. It's a credit to the group assembled to be producing such a quality production.
Patricia Burke-Brogan was born in Kildysart, Southwest Co. Clare in 1926. She passed away last September, 2022, at a nursing home in Galway. In the 1960’s at 21 years young, motivated by concern for the poor and underprivileged, she joined the Sisters of Mercy (Galway) to help the poor as a postulant nun. She was put to work in the Foster Street Magdalene laundry in Galway. After a brief time there, she left the order and turned to art and writing. First she wrote a short story, then the play Eclipsed in the 1980’s and later highlighting the plight of the women in the laundry in her 2014 book, Memoir with Grykes and Turloughs.
Eclipsed was a depiction of life in the laundry based on her own experiences. It was fundamental in highlighting the treatment of women in Ireland and the secrets that we as a nation chose to hide behind. ere is a cast of 9 strong women. e penitents Brigid Murphy, Nellie-Nora Langan (junior and senior), Cathy McNamara, Mandy Prendervile, and orphan Juliet Mannion. Mother Victoria is the nun in charge with the postulate, Sister Virgina.
e play itself was met with resistance when it was rst performed in 1992, with protesting groups admonishing Patricia and sending her hate mail. However, a small edgling Galway theatre company called Punchbag eatre Company took the play on and stood up brave in the face of those who wished the secrets to stay buried. Infact, on their tour of Ireland they performed Eclipsed in Cleeres in Kilkenny. John Cleere kindly shared the newspaper clipping with KATS when he heard it was being brought back to Kilkenny.
Paula Drohan, who plays Mother Victoria in this production was actually a member of the audience herself.
“I have seen much theatre down through the years and have been part of numerous shows and plays also but I can honestly say that this is one of the plays that has stayed with me on an emotional level and impacted me hugely. I was a young woman when I saw the production in Cleere’s and was horried and upset that what was being depicted on stage had happened in our country but also I was made keenly aware of how resilience and humour can get us all through the most di cult of situations.
Eclipsed has stayed on my radar down through the years. It was my chosen play for a Fishamble directing course that I participated in and I had the privilege of directing local actresses Anne O’Keefe and Treasa Ni Bhreanainn in an excerpt from the play for that course. I had been in touch with Patricia Burke Brogan a number of years ago regarding staging the play in Kilkenny. Now it is nally happening and I am delighted to be part of it.
Let us never forget what happened or how institutions, be they secular or religious can become dangerously corrupt and powerful”
We know from media coverage, that there's history of the brutal imprisonment of these women. ere is a rash assumption that all were committed to the laundries for being an unmarried mother or for breaking strict moral codes, but it wasn’t just single pregnant women who were signed in. Women who were deemed too “fast” or a little bit “slow” or even those who were a burden to their family were also con ned within the walls. e women worked without pay in these institutions run by the all-important church in collusion with the State and we, the public were complicit in the laundries survival.
It wasn't until February 2013, when Enda Kenny delivered an emotional apology in the Dáil on behalf of the State to the Magdalene Laundry survivors when a compensation fund was announced.
Payments have been made for their years of unpaid work in the laundries. e fund was also used to pay for counselling services, medical treatment and other welfare measures for the women who su ered in the Magdalene Laundries.
Ireland’s rst such institution, the Magdalene Asylum for Penitent Females in
Dublin, was founded by the Protestant Church of Ireland in 1765. Since then, an estimated 300,000 women are thought to have passed through the laundries in total, at least 10,000 of them since 1922. Despite a large number of survivors, the laundries went unchallenged until the 1990s.
e importance of the play 'Eclipsed' cannot be underestimated. ough it retells a tale of a bygone era in Ireland, it is still relevant today.
It seems as though the misogyny that our mothers and grandmothers had to face has an awkward habit or rearing it's head. A recent video that re-emerged on social media "Mens opinons on women working 1990-Ireland" showcases the casual sexism most men seemed to have. "Women in the kitchen? It's the way of the world ", "women are only t for kitchens," a man says, "making beds and babies, that's all women are t for." Since then, we have had to have di cult, but necessary conversations, about women's roles at home and in society, to consent.
e Paddy Jackson trial dominated the news in Ireland not so long ago. Dividing the country, the evidence had been sexually explicit, and had been debated heatedly, and in great detail, at bus stops, in hairdressers, shops and bars and around dinner tables. e #MeToo movement was in full ow, and women from all over the island of Ireland were telling painful stories of sexual humiliations at the hands of men.
And not only that, the news of Aisling Murphy stormed through the country not so long ago also. Women openly discussed their fear for their safety just walking down the street. But there is still hope, our country and the world came together holding vigils saying no to this behaviour. Standing up for fellow people on public transport being subjected to abuse.
e recent box o ce hit Barbie also showed men, women, husbands, sons and daughters, attending to celebrate women's empowerment. Acknowledging the sky's the limit to what women can do. at both women and men are individuals, neither to be boxed in by societal expectation or gender assigned roles.
Eclipsed is no di erent. Each of the magdelenes in this play go on a journey and none of them is the same at the end. Overcoming their past, standing in the face of adversity and governance with a tenacity and conviction that is admirable.
Proving that even within the con nes of a magdelene laundry, strong women will always nd ways of empowering themselves and each other.
31st of August
the 2nd of September 7.30pm nightly
Ifac, Ireland’s farming, food, and agribusiness specialist professional services rm, has welcomed the new grant to incentivise succession planning on farms.
e top accountancy rm welcomes this month’s announcement by Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue of the launch of the new Succession Planning Advice Grant.
Succession Planning Advice Grant is a scheme speci cally aimed at encouraging best practice in intergenerational land transfer in order to address, among other things, signi cant generational imbalances in farming.
e grant is to encourage and support farmers aged 60 years and above to seek succession planning advice by contributing up to 50% of vouched legal, accounting and advisory costs, subject to a maximum payment of €1,500.
Marty Murphy, Head of Tax with ifac, said: “ is is a very welcome move for the future of Irish farming and rural communities. e new grant is to encourage farmers aged 60 years and above to seek succession planning advice, potentially helping many farm families to avoid future nancial hardship.
“We would urge older farmers to take up this incentive and seek professional advice on how to best safeguard their own nancial security while also looking after the next generation and securing a viable future for their farm.”
Succession planning is important in every business, so it’s worrying that it is neglected on so many Irish farms. Research conducted for ifac’s 2023 annual Farm Report found that 64% of farmers surveyed don’t have a successor in place, and 90% have little or no understanding of the Fair Deal nursing home scheme.
“While inheritance and succession can be a thorny subject, it’s crucial that farmers plan ahead, taking into account both their own aspirations and those of the next generation. e Succession Planning Advice Grant is a welcome initiative and an important support for older
farmers< said Mr Murphy. Family circumstances di er, and every case is unique, which is why it’s so important to obtain professional advice. Getting the timing of a transfer of farm ownership wrong or failing to take advantage of relevant tax-saving opportunities can lead to signi cant hardship,” said Marty.
Making
When planning for succession, it is also important that farmers make a Will. Once in place, Succession Plans and Wills then need to be reviewed at least once a year and updated when necessary.
How to apply for the Succession Planning Advice
Grant
e Succession Planning
Advice Grant opens for applications on the 19th of September 2023 and will cover up to 50% of vouched legal, accounting and advisory succession planning advice costs, subject to a maximum payment of €1,500.
To apply, farmers must be aged 60 years and above, farming at least three hectares of land, and farming for a minimum of two years before making their application. e grant does not apply to farmers currently in a succession farm partnership.
A free guide to Farm Succession is available for download from ifac.ie. For further information on succession and/or to discuss your situation, please get in touch with your local ifac o ce. Ifac has been at the heart of agriculture and food since 1975, providing a quality service and expert advice to its farming, food, and agribusiness clients across the country. Ifac has over 30 locations nationwide and 500 people serving 22,000 clients.
For further information about ifac contact Sarah on 085 853 5647 or at sarahd@cclinic.ie.
Applications may be submitted all year round, but payments will be made in Tranches. This year’s application will open on the 19th of September 19, 2023 and closes on December 31, 2023.
Tranche 1 payment will be in the first quarter of 2024. Payments will issue in Quarter 1 of the following year after application up till 2027. Only fully completed applications with the following documents will be processed. The following must be submitted:
• Completed checklist
• Completed application form
• Proof of Age
• Proof of Address
• Copies of all invoices claimed
• Proof of payment for all invoices
Farmers who fear having insu cient fodder for winter are reminded that they can still withdraw from the Straw Incorporation Measure (SIM).
Senator Tim Lombard said that some farmers who are currently chopping straw are worried that they won’t have enough for fodder and bedding due to the “substantial rainfall” in July.
e senator said that from having conversations with farmers in recent days, many were not aware that there was an exception for justi ed cases.
“While the SIM has been bene cial to farmers in previous years, the heavy rain we’ve had this summer has changed the situation for some who may need to decrease the amount of straw
they chop and incorporate,” he said.
“Farmers I’ve spoken to tell me that yields are back as much as three round bales per acre. As a result, they may need to keep more parcels for feed rather than chopping.”
e terms and conditions of the scheme outlined by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) state that “in duly justi ed
cases, withdrawals and reductions may be considered if the applicant has not been noti ed of an issue with their application or noti ed of an inspection”.
Farmers can submit an amendment on the department’s website, by stating that straw is required for feed.
SIM is a payment for chopping straw and incorporating it into the soil.
Payment rates under the SIM are €250/ha for barley, wheat, oats and rye, and €150/ ha for oilseed rape.
Payments are subject to a minimum application of 5ha and a maximum application of 40ha. e indicative annual allocation for the scheme under the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) Strategic Plan is €10 million.
Over 70,000ha have been
applied for under SIM this year.
“ is year’s applicant gures greatly exceed the target of incorporating 55,000ha of straw set out for 2030 in the government’s Climate Action Plan, so there is room for those who need to withdraw to do so while staying within our climate targets,” Senator Lombard said.
We have all heard the horror stories about people receiving hefty phone bills after a trip to the sun. Tens of thousands being billed for downloading and streaming fees. To combat this, a scheme called ‘Roam Like At Home was put in place and the EU renewed the scheme for another 10 years late last year.
e scheme was to lapse on June 30 last but legislation, a follow-up to the 2017 Elimination of Roaming Surcharges was agreed between Parliament and Council, meaning we the consumers would continue to be able to use our mobile phones when travelling abroad in the EU with no additional fees on top of what we already pay at home.
In addition, we will now enjoy the same quality and speed of mobile connection abroad as at home as roaming providers will be obliged to o er the same
roaming quality to that provided domestically, if the same conditions are available on the network of the visiting country. For example, it will be illegal to reduce the quality of roaming services by switching the connection from 4G to 3G.
Travellers and people with disabilities will have access to emergency services without any additional charge – whether by call or text message, including the transmission of caller location information. Operators will also have to provide information about the European emergency number 112 with the same rate for calls, texts and data in the EU applying to what we now have in Ireland.
You still need to be on your toes as EU roaming data allowance is considerably lower, so you may have to fork out if you exceed it and ying to a non-EU destina-
tion could still come with a hefty roaming tag.
Eoin Clarke commercial director of Switcher.ie said:
“ e recent EU Roam Like At Home rules will be a respite for many holiday-goers, but it still helps to keep streaming, gaming and Googlemapping to a minimum as data allowance is considerably lower.
“Sky-high charges are more likely in far -lung destinations like Asia, the US and Australia, where charges for calls to home can be over €2 a minute and using the internet can cost more than €5 per MB: though the exact amount depends on your provider and location.”
In order to avoid post holiday blues remember the following:
* Check your data limits if you’re paying for a roaming bundle. It may still have fair usage limits lower than at home, and your provider can apply a data cap . Always
check what the fair usage is and set a cap if required.
* Use an eSim, a virtual SIM card that is preinstalled in most newer smartphones. Apps like the GoMo World allows customers to use their eSIM to connect to networks in 160 countries, including the US, Canada and Aus-
tralia, starting at €3.99 for a mobile plan.
* If your current plan has a low data limit, consider switching to a no-contract, one month SIM with bigger roaming allowances before you head overseas. For example Eir Mobile’s Connect 30 Day plan with 30GB of data for €14.99 a month.
* Who uses voicemail anymore? Maybe you do but receiving voicemail while abroad can cost you even if you don’t listen to it! Switch it o for the duration of your holiday.
* If you’re ying outside the EU consider a ‘pay-asyou-go local SIM when you arrive. You can avail of local deals like unlimited data, calls and texts and while use text, don’t use WhatsApp. If you’re in the EU, because of your lower data limit, always text.
* Switch o your data roaming and use WiFi wher-
ever possible. Connect to free WiFi spots wherever you are but be careful when connecting to public WiFi connection; basic communication only, no online banking or sending sensitive emails.
* If you’re in a far- ung destination and you’re worried about going over your limit, turn o data roaming or turn on aeroplane mode to remind you to limit your usage and disable all app updates as they can swallow large amounts of data in the background.
It’s easy to see how costs could quickly add up when you consider that 1MB of data is only enough to browse one website, Google maps could use 5MB and an hour on Spotify could use 10MB. You could use up your data very fast if you’re not connected to WiFi.
john@ellis nancial.ie 086 8362622
There is a good chance El Niño conditions will remain strong for the next six months. This year’s El Niño may drive ocean temperatures to “substantially exceed” those recorded during the last strong event in early 2016, scientists have warned.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) latest El Niño update also says there is a more than 95% chance the event will last through to February 2024, with far-reaching climate impacts.
“El Niño is anticipated to continue through the Northern Hemisphere winter,” NOAA staff wrote in the update. “Our global climate models are predicting that the warmer-thanaverage Pacifc Ocean conditions will not only last through the winter, but continue to increase.”
Scientists officially announced the onset of El Niño in early June. El Niño is an ocean-warming event that typically occurs every two to seven years in the central and eastern Pacific, driving air temperatures up around the globe.
Its strongest climate impacts are usually felt during the Northern Hemisphere’s winter and early spring, bringing more rain and storms across the southern US, southeastern South America, the Horn of Africa and eastern Asia. In other parts of the world, such as southeastern Africa and Indonesia, El Niño leads to drier conditions and may increase the risk of drought.
To track El Niño’s progress, scientists measured sea surface temperatures in the eastcentral tropical Pacific Ocean. Abnormally high temperatures seem to conErm early predictions that this year’s event could be a big one. Atmospheric conditions are also consistent with a long-lasting El Niño, according to NOAA.
“El Niño is a coupled phenomenon, meaning the
changes we see in the ocean surface temperatures must be matched by changes in the atmospheric patterns above the tropical Pacific,” the update said. More rain and clouds over the central Pacific, as well as weak pressure in the east and reduced trade wind activity in the west, suggest “the system is engaged and that these conditions will last through the winter,” staM added.
The effects of El Niño are felt globally, but don’t affect different regions in the same way.
(Image credit: NOAA Climate. gov)
Sea surface temperatures in
the east-central tropical PaciEc exceeded the long-term average for 1991 to 2020 by 1.8 degrees Fahrenheit (1 degree Celsius) throughout the month of July. Temperatures from May to July — a three-month average called the Oceanic Niño Index — were also 1.4 F (0.8 C) higher than usual and marked the second warmerthan-average Oceanic Niño Index in a row.
“We need to see Eve consecutive three-month averages above this threshold before these periods will be considered a historical ‘El Niño episode,’” the update said. “Two is
a good start.”
There is “a good chance” the Oceanic Niño Index will match or exceed the threshold for a “strong” El Niño, the update added.
And forecasters are now confident the event will remain strong through to next year, although this doesn’t necessarily equate to strong impacts locally, they noted El Niño affects global weather patterns, as well as the Atlantic and Pacific hurricane seasons. The event usually dampens hurricanes over the Atlantic Ocean, but this year’s sizzling water temperatures
could mitigate this dampening effect , according to NOAA’s Climate Prediction Centre.
While a hurricane update in May predicted a 30% chance of higher activity over the Atlantic, the latest forecast said there is a 60% chance of an “above normal season,” with up to 21 named storms and Eve major hurricanes.
Sea surface temperatures in the east-central tropical Pacific exceeded the long-term average for 1991 to 2020 by 1.8 degrees Fahrenheit (1 degree Celsius) throughout the month of July. Temperatures from
May to July — a three-month average called the Oceanic Niño Index — were also 1.4 F (0.8 C) higher than usual and marked the second warmerthan-average Oceanic Niño Index in a row.
“We need to see Eve consecutive three-month averages above this threshold before these periods will be considered a historical ‘El Niño episode,’” the update said. “Two is a good start.”
There is “a good chance” the Oceanic Niño Index will match or exceed the threshold for a “strong” El Niño, the update added.
Since it seems like algorithms are everywhere and doing everything, many people have grown confused about what this software does. Are you using algorithms every time you pull out your Android phone? Almost certainly.
So, what do these algorithms do? A quick tech lesson will make everything clear. Here’s what algorithms do behind the scenes and why they’re important.
A computer algorithm is a set of instructions that tell computers how to handle and interpret data. Still, that’s vague. Algorithm instructions can range from simple algorithms, like automatically sorting sets of numbers into larger and smaller categories, to complex algorithms, like the Google search engine algorithm that analyses data about websites
and ranks them in the search order. No matter how complex,
the algorithm still does the same thing. It takes a set of data and follows a careful
process to turn that data into useful results for human users.
The instructions for the algorithm are written in code and typically include significant amounts of math, if/then formulas, and other tools that make a bunch of information make sense. That’s why creating an algorithm can take a lot of work and involves many parts.
An algorithm uses math and coding to solve problems and turn data into usable information. But let’s dig a little deeper. One model for algorithms suggests that they should have five core characteristics to meet the definition:
An algorithm must be a clearly described process, with each step in its instructions laying out precisely what it does to reach the endpoint.
An algorithm takes data from somewhere, so it gets
inputs. That data needs to be labeled or defined so that the algorithm can understand it and categorise it.
The algorithm provides an output or the result of its calculations. The output value is the purpose of the algorithm, the information that can be used to make decisions (both automated and nonautomated decisions).
Finallly, an algorithm must be created to have a stopping point. This is the point where it stops working until it’s started again. If a process constantly works in an endless loop, it isn’t technically an algorithm, although it may do similar things.
Also, an algorithm should work in the practical world. Algorithms aren’t only mathematical theories. They are tools that produce real results when put into practice.
Tinos
While nearby Mykonos is a magnet for hedonists, Tinos attracts pilgrims to the Panagia Evangelistria (pictured above), Greece’s holiest shrine. Some of the devout approach the hilltop church from the port on their knees along a carpeted path.
Tinos is also one the most beautiful and least touristy islands in the Cyclades, where Pyrgos, Volax, and dozens of other pretty villages are nestled into valleys and clefts in barren mountainsides.
Paths that connect these whitewashed settlements wind past elaborate dovecotes and cross boulder- strewn, thyme-scented elds, making the island a walker’s paradise. Treks lead to secluded beaches and up Mount Tsiknias, a 2,400-foot-high summit that is allegedly the haunt of Boreas, god of the north wind. He makes his presence known when the summertime meltemi blows; fortunately, shady village squares provide welcome refuge from the winds.
Skyros
Travellers who go to the trouble to reach this remote outpost of the Sporades are met with one of the most remarkable sights in Greece— the spectacle of the white cubical houses of Skyros Town (pictured above) toppling down a steep mountainside. Far below is a string of beautiful sand beaches, backed by the low-key resort towns of Magazia and Molos.
Bordered by fragrant pine forests, additional stretches of sand ring the northern end of the cinch- waisted island, while the south is rocky, desolate, and hauntingly beautiful. Adding to the island’s otherworldly aura: the diminutive Syrian ponies you might see grazing alongside sheep and goats. According to legend, these sturdy little
Museu Nacional D’Art De Catalunya (MNAC)
e Museum of Catalan Art, on the side of the Montjuïc hill visible from nearly everywhere in Barcelona, deserves its lofty and dominant position. After all, this is where 1,000 years of Catalan history is told through art, from the 10th century to the 20th. Split into various departments, there is Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Modern art, as well as photography, drawings, prints, posters, and the Catalan numismatic (coins and medals) exhibit.
ere may not be many artists you recognize immediately by name, but you will recognize some of the art. e — or my — general ignorance about Catalan art certainly makes visiting this museum a worthwhile learning experience.
Due to the thousands of exhibits and the many rooms, you can easily spend hours here, but if you time it right,
beasts pulled the chariot of Achilles to the Trojan War.
Leros is link in the Dodecanese chain ticks just about all the boxes for a Greek escape: sandy beaches, pretty villages, seaside tavernas, windmills, and even an imposing
medieval castle. Despite these assets, few of the crowds who descend on nearby Kos and Rhodes nd their way to Leros —which only adds to the island’s appeal. Goats may be your only company on isolated beaches. Shady taverna terraces in the hilly old capital of Platanos are
well suited to lingering over a co ee and pastry. e hilltop castle is a relic of the Crusader Knights of St. John, who landed here in the 13th century. Another big presence was former Italian dictator Benito Mussolini; he made Leros his Eastern Mediterranean base and left behind the town of
Folegandros
When it comes to spectacular scenery, little Folegandros matches Santorini with spectacular cli s and a picture-perfect main town, Chora—a blaze of white houses perched high above the blue sea. Similarities with Santorini end there, though, because Folegandros has none of the high-end luxury, nightlife, or crowds that characterize some of the island’s more famous Cycladic neighbors. Age-old donkey paths cross the isle’s rock-strewn interior, arriving at beaches tucked into coves beneath the cli s. Back in town, Chora’s three interlocking squares serve as theatrical settings for relaxed evening meals.
Lesbos
e third-largest Greek island (after Crete and Evia) is tucked up against Turkey in the far eastern Aegean Sea, far o the typical island-hopping circuit. Lesbos made headlines in 2015 with the arrival of thousands of Middle Eastern refugees, but for the most part islanders go about their business here as they have for centuries, harvesting olives (nine million trees grow on Lesbos), shing, and making ouzo.
Lakki, where villas, the striking municipal cinema, and other landmarks are designed in an icy Italian Rationalist style. Most accommodations on the island are in the nice little beach towns of Panteli and Alinda. A stay in either puts many other sights an easy stroll away.
walk by a nearly 20-foot-tall wooden KAWS sculpture titled Final Days. It nearly lls the Gothic courtyard, contrasting but also working rather well with its historic surroundings.
Inside, exhibits range from Salvador Dali to Yayoi Kusama, Andy Warhol to Banksy, and Damien Hirst to Takashi Murakami. With rooms downstairs as well as upstairs, it o ers a fun and comprehensive look at art from the last century as well as this century.
is being an independent museum, the price of tickets is a little steep, and there is no free entry to be had, but they do o er the occasional discount, so keep an eye out on their website.
Aside from an authentic Greek island experience, Lesbos o ers great swaths of forests, soaring mountains, uncrowded beaches (including the 5.5-mile stretch of sand at Vatera), hot springs, a petri ed forest, and salt marshes frequented by amingos. Travellers settle into appealing seaside towns such as castle-topped Molyvos and beach-skirting Skala Eresou, where the ancient poet Sappho wrote verse that made the island’s name forever associated with erotic love between women.
spread over three stories and indeed ve adjoining properties, showing you quite how proli c Picasso was throughout his career, with this museum being only one of many. ere are others in places such as Paris, Antibes in France, his birthplace of Malaga in Spain, and Munster in Germany.
you can get in for free and return again at a later stage.
Every Saturday after 3pm and every rst Sunday of the month, the museum o ers free entry.
Sister museum of Moco
Amsterdam, Moco Barcelona opened its doors in the middle of the pandemic in 2021. It was the new star on the Firmament of Barcelona I had not visited. So, a couple of months ago, when I found myself in Barcelona again, it was my rst port of call.
Located in a 16th-century city palace, practically next door to the Picasso Museum in the old quarter of El Born (more on that below), Moco Barcelona houses a collection of modern and contemporary art. Before you even enter the exhibition rooms, you’ll
Museu Picasso
Now, here is a name we all know: Pablo Picasso. Right next to Moco Barcelona, the beautiful historic setting of the Picasso Museum alone is worth the visit. ere are some 4,300 exhibits
But, together with the Paris one, this is the favourite due to its lovely setting and the sheer volume of works on display. Picasso himself kept donating works to this museum in his lifetime. Take a close look at his paintings depicting Barcelona as it was when he lived there between 1895 and 1904. He lived in the very neighbourhood where the museum is today.
e museum is popular and gets busy, with the best time slot being right after opening. at said, if you are on a budget, entrance is free on the rst Sunday of the month and on ursdays between 6pm and 9:30pm.
ere are three things that people of my generation know for sure. One: we know for sure where we were when President John Fitzgerald Kennedy, the 35th President of the United States was assassinated (he had visited Ireland a short ve months prior to the assassination).
Two: we know for sure where we were when Packie Bonner saved and David O’Leary scored.
And three: we know for sure where we were when Elvis Presley, the King of Rock & Roll, died all of 46 years ago on August 16, 1977.
A few of us were walking out of the CBS secondary school after an evening of study for the famous County Council Scholarship when Lar Hunt, one of the nicest teachers to walk this earth, came rushing towards us, saying: “Boys, boys, President Kennedy has
e Kilkenny County Council
Arts O ce is delighted to announce the publication of its 23rd issue of the ever-popular Kilkenny Poetry Broadsheet. e aim of the publication is to give local writers a platform for their work. Being published since 2002, it continues to be a much sought after and well-loved platform for writers to expose their work to the public.
e Broadsheet was successfully launched during the Arts Festival, in the Parade Tower by Poet in Residence for the Kilkenny Arts Festival, Kwame Dawes, Broadsheet editor and poet, Afric McGlinchey and Arts
O cer, Mary Butler.
is year over one hundred poems were submitted by fty-eight poets for consideration, with twelve poems by twelve poets selected.
Poets selected for publication included:
Noel Howley, Canice
Kenealy, Mia King, Alice Bennett, Darren Ca rey, Nuala Roche, Mike Watss, Breda Joyce, Anne Mac Darby Beck, Paddy Doyle, Eamonn Dono-
been assassinated.”
We looked at Lar somewhat puzzled until he realised that we didn’t know what ‘assassinated’ meant. “Boys,” he said, “President Kennedy has been shot dead.” We walked slowly, silently, home that night suddenly aware that there was a big, bad world out there.
I was in Cleere’s Bar glued to the television, biting my nails, when Packie Bonner saved against Romania’s Timofte. And when David O’Leary scored, the pub, quite literally, erupted. I have never known such exhilaration, such unbridled joy at a sporting event (apart from Kilkenny winning four-in-a-row) before or since.
I have never hugged so many men in my life and I have never kissed so many women. None of them my wife! August 16, 1977. I am sipping a co ee on the patio of my sister’s house in Nicosia, the
capital of Cyprus. My sister Eadie works here with the United Nations and invited me, her younger brother, over for a holiday. I am listening to the BBC World Service on the radio when I hear some Elvis Presley songs being played. Rather unusual, I am thinking, for the BBC World Service to be playing popular music! And then, in a wonderful, plummy British accent, a voice reminded us that Elvis Aaron Presley had died at his Graceland Mansion in Memphis, Tennessee, at the age of 42. I was shocked and saddened.
I became an Elvis Presley fan because of my older sisters. I rst got to like his music thanks to my oldest sister Frances who listened religiously to the Top 20 on Radio Luxemburg every Sunday night which regularly featured Elvis Presley hits. I listened in too and got to like his music.
Frances also subscribed to the fanzine Elvis Monthly which I surreptitiously dipped into out of boyish curiosity which further enhanced my appreciation of Elvis and made me envious of his to-
die-for hairstyle. My second eldest sister, Mary, may not have been quite as ardent a fan of Elvis as her older sister Frances but she found herself going out with a fellow who was a huge Elvis fan and who had acquired a serious collection of Elvis LPs. He very graciously loaned me those LPs. If I liked the music of Elvis Presley previously I liked it even more now, loved it actually, as I practically wore out the turntable of our radiogram listening to Heartbreak Hotel, Hound Dog, Blue Suede Shoes, Jail House Rock to name but a few. When he and my sister parted ways I secretly hoped that he would forget about the Elvis LPs he had loaned me. He didn’t. And who could blame him. And then there was my late, third sister, Eadie, whose house I was staying in, in
Nicosia on that sad August 16, 1977. Eadie and myself, being the youngest of ve, were quite close in age and were more into the Beatles and the Rolling Stones than Elvis. Compared to our more conservative siblings, including our oldest brother John, Eadie and I grew up with one leg in the Legion of Mary, so to speak, and one leg in faded, denim bellbottoms. But there was no avoiding, no escaping Elvis in our house and Eadie, like me, succumbed to the infectious, vibrant melodies of Mr. Presley.
I nished my co ee and phoned Eadie, at work in the UN, with the tragic news of Elvis’s death when who should sidle up to me but her pet poodle, a loveable, jet black, curly haired mutt who answered to the name of Elvie, my sister’s female version of Elvis!
van and Emily Murtagh.
Poet Afric McGlinchey was this year’s editor and she had the tough yet enjoyable task of selecting poems for publication. Afric stated that, each of the 105 poems she received o ered its own unique expression of the human spirit. ere were poems about the small things that
make life magical: trees and pigs and birds and owers and bogs, about individual moments. She was heartwarmed by poems describing familial relationships, particularly elegies to fathers and grandfathers and she was glad to see poems written in the Irish language too.
Mary Butler, Arts O cerwas ‘delighted with the launch of the Broadsheet and it continues to be a beloved annual event by participants and audiences alike. We were delighted to have Kwame Dawes and Afric with us to launch the publication and its always a pleasure to hear each poet recite their poem’ e Kilkenny Poetry Broadsheet Issue 23 is available free of charge from the libraries across the county and you can also call the Poetry Phone on FREE PHONE 1800 272 994 to hear the poems recited.
For further information on this or other Arts O ce projects contact the Arts O ce on 056-7794547 or email deirdre.southey@ kilkennycoco.ie
“I became an Elvis fan because of my older sisters...
sometimes on one foot to avoid getting a splinter from the oorboards, and she’d lash out at whichever girl was giving her grief.
“She’d hit us on the head, the hands, the shoulders, the back…any part of us that she could reach with the heel. And by God it hurt. Many of us were covered in heel marks from that shoe. She was some bitch, that one.” A female teacher in another primary school in the Callan district had a habit of grabbing girls by the hair and literally tearing it out. Girls with embarrassing bald patches abounded in the school. Each evening they went home with tufts of hair in their schoolbags. Eventually, the mother of one girl complained to the parish priest, who asked the teacher to desist from the practise.
ere were, of course, both religious and lay teachers who opted not to avail of corporal punishment.
ese far-seeing educators in Callan and elsewhere realised that beating the living daylights out of children and teenagers wouldn’t necessarily advance their education and might even impede it. ey refrained on principle from accepting the “weapons” their superiors o ered them to control and regulate their classes.
I have decided not to name these enlightened teachers, as to do so would identify by a process of elimination the ones who did “get physical” in the classroom!
e majority of past pupils of Callan schools seem, from what I have been able to gauge from speaking to a cross-section of then, to forgive their teachers. Or they at least downplay the severity of the punishment.
At the various commemorative functions organised by former pupils over the years, many of them have joked about the slaps and beatings the nuns, brothers, or lay
teachers gave them.
“Sure the divil a harm it ever did us” is a common refrain one hears at these get-togethers. A few past pupils are less magnanimous, and their trips down memory lane take them to a place they would sooner forget than forgive.
To again quote Sean Holden’s comment on life in the 1930s and 1940s: “Di erent times, boy... di erent times.”
(What happened in the industrial schools and Magdalene Laundries was on another level altogether. I deal with Ireland’s institutional era in a novel titled Escape from Grievous Faults.)
e Academy School
Choir Callan 1937
Back: J. Woodgate, J. Lyons, Billy Roche, D. O’ Sullivan, Martin Lynch, Ned Lyons.
Middle row: Tom Kearney, Peter Fennelly, P. Morrissey, M. Roche.
Front: M. Bergin, Billy Bergin, J. Fitzgerald.
BY JOHN FITZGERALDContinuing the story of corporal punishment in an Irish town in the 1930s and 40s: I also interviewed Jimmy Walsh of Mill Street, Callan. Jimmy told me he was punished severely by a nun at the local convent.
In addition to words of praise for some of the nuns, he had a vivid image of the day in 1940 when a Mercy Sister reprimanded him for some minor weakness in his homework. She gave him a
hiding he never forgot. She ogged him on the legs, and as he tried to dodge her blows, she proclaimed triumphantly: “I’ll make you dance…I’ll make you dance!”
When he got home, local woman Sally Holden was sitting by the reside chatting to his mother. Seeing Jimmy trudge disconsolately into the house, she turned to Mrs. Walsh with a worried look and asked: “What are all those blue marks on his legs?”
Jimmy explained that such chastisement was common at all levels of schooling at the time. At the Academy in Green Street, the lay teachers struck him and the other pupils with sticks, leathers, and sts. e boys had a
serious dislike of a teacher who’d sown coins into his leather to enhance its punishment potential.
e girls were disciplined too. I spoke to a woman who attended a national school within Callan parish in the 1940s. Her teacher resorted to slapping with a long hazel stick at the slightest provocation. Any failure drew a sharp rebuke, followed by however many slaps she deemed appropriate.
But it wasn’t the slaps the girls feared most, according to this former pupil: e teacher in question also used the heel of one of her shoes to beat the pupils. e woman recalled: “She’d tear around the classroom with a shoe in her hand, hopping
Millions to
face starvation and look death in the eyes’ following Russia’s decision to withdraw from a key humanitarian accord puts tens of millions of people at risk of acute food crisis around the world.
Fadumo Abdi has been hungry for months now. She’s already lost one child to starvation and she doesn’t know if her surviving children will make it to the end of the year.
Having recently relocated to a camp for internally displaced persons (IDPs), near Mogadishu after fleeing the droughtand war-ravaged areas of south-central Somalia, Fadumo has lost almost everything. She came to the capital hoping to find steady work, to figure out a way to ensure her children have a future.
“When we arrived here, there were no services or support,” Fadumo, a slender woman draped in a dark green hijab and brown dress, told Rolling Stone during a visit to her camp. “The only help we got was from fellow IDPs, who gave us sticks and sheets to assemble a makeshift tent. But that was all.”
“Getting access to food and water for my children is out of the question,” she said.
Veteran aid workers say hundreds of thousands of people are already “looking death in the eyes,” with 48 million facing an acute food crisis across East Africa this year.
Perched on a wooden stool in that tent, Fadumo has little time to worry about current events elsewhere in the world. She has her hands full trying to keep her two sons – eight-yearold Imran and seven-year-old Ahmed, who sit beside her on a torn mat that covers only a portion of the dirt floor – alive. It’s already been more than a day since their last meagre meal, often just a few scraps of food shared by her neighbours in the camp. In any case, she’s never been outside of Somalia.
Fadumo doesn’t know that Russia recently pulled out of a key humanitarian agreement to allow grain and other foodstuffs to trickle out of Ukrainian ports. She doesn’t know that the resulting reduction in food shipments, volatility in commodity markets and rising prices for wheat mean even less humanitarian aid for mil-
According to US media reports, The Department of Justice is looking to kick off Donald Trump’s 2020 election meddling trial on as soon as January 2, next just days shy of the January. 6 Capitol riot’s three-year anniversary.
“The Government proposes that trial begin on January 2, 2024, and estimates that the case will take no longer than four to six weeks,” prosecutors wrote in a filing submitted to Washington DC’s District Court.
Prosecutors propose beginning jury selection on December 11, 2023, with a break between selection and the official start of the trial for the December holidays.
lions of refugees around the globe.
“More than 80% of food imports in Somalia and East Africa were already coming from Ukraine and Russia even before the war,” Shashwat Saraf, the regional emergency director for East Africa at the International Rescue Committee (IRC), told Rolling Stone by phone from Nairobi. “Over the past year, Somalia, Ethiopia and Kenya are coming out of one of the worst drought
periods in years. The dependence on food imports has only increased since the war in Ukraine started.”
But the amount of food aid being delivered has been decreasing.
Fadumo and people like her – from Sudan, to Yemen, to Afghanistan, to Haiti – are caught in the crossfire of the invasion launched by Russian President Vladimir Putin, their lives endangered by it as surely as any resident of Bakhmut or Zapor-
izhzhia.
Fadumo and her children may die in Somalia, casualties of the war in Ukraine.
At the beginning of the war, Russia seized three of Ukraine’s five biggest ports – Mariupol, Yuzhny and Berdyansk – and attempted to seize the other two: Odesa and Chornomorsk, only miles apart on Ukraine’s southwestern Black Sea coast. That attempt failed, and port facilities in Odesa oblast, or province, remain in Ukrainian
hands. But with the beleaguered Russian Black Sea Fleet essentially unchallenged in open water, the only safe passage through the blockade for commercial vessels has been with Russian co-operation.
Ukraine was the world’s third-largest exporter of corn and fifth-largest exporter of wheat in 2021, according to data from the USDA’s Foreign Agricultural Service, which monitors global food trade. Since the invasion, the coun-
The Government also wrote that they expect the discovery phase of the trial will be “substantially complete in advance of the court’s hearing on August 28, 2023”. The August hearing will serve to finalise the dates and logistical proceedings of the case.
Should the Government’s proposed timeline be accepted, Trump’s trial would overlap with both the 2024 Iowa caucuses and a second civil defamation lawsuit brought against the former president by author E. Jean Carroll. They are both set to begin on January 15, 2024.
But a trial date won’t be the first major ruling handed down by Judge Tanya S. Chutkan.
Representatives for Trump and
try’s total agricultural exports have plummeted 65%, with some exports – like planting seeds and dairy – collapsing entirely.
But Ukrainian farmers are still working. Harvests continue to roll in: agriculture accounted for 41 percent of Ukraine’s exports before the war, and employs 14% of the country’s workforce. Millions of tons of Ukrainian grain have accumulated in silos around the Black Sea.
the Justice Department will appear in court to discuss a protective order requested by the DOJ against the former president. The order would limit Trump’s ability to publicly discuss evidence made available to him through the discovery phase of the trial.
The department moved to rein in the former president after he launched a barrage of attacks against prosecutors and Judge Chutkan following his most recent arrest and arraignment. Despite attempts from his attorneys to soften the scope of the order and delay a decision from the judge, Trump promised supporters at a campaign rally that he would keep discussing the case in public — consequences be damned.
about 2 miles South of Kilkenny City.
It is now far removed from when it was a major thoroughfare.
e grand views of the country side, Kilkenny city and the ancient cemetery gives the observer the impression of what was a very important site.
e modern word Outrath, comes from Outeraghi into Ought and pre xed to Rath.
Translated into Upper Rath because of its relative situation in the locality with High Rath.
Although situated on opposite sides of the River Nore were one time connected by a road.
e bosheen that now leads from the Waterford road by the churchyard of Outrath and directly onto the Bohertounish road, down through Loughboy, Patrick Street (Upper)down New Street ( e Cool)Walkin Street and into Kilkenny city.
But at one time it took a course through Raggetsland into Warrington, down the Bennetts bridge road to Maddoxtown where it forded the river Nore at Colles Marble Works then directly to Highrath Castle, at which point it joined with the High road to Dublin.
e public road by Garrydu , Freestone Hill and the chapel of Pit did not enter Kilkenny but ran directly to Highrath Castle thence to Maddoxtown, forded the river, ran onto Outrath thence by Inchiholohan, Dama, Golden eld, Ballinamara, and Tubridbritain into Munster.
construction from the coming of the railway to Kilkenny.
It was by the Bohertounish road that Cromwell entered Kilkenny, after taking Gowran.
He set up camp at Outrath from where he could survey the surrounding countryside and city. Tradition holds that he pounded the castle and city walls with cannon re, but this is unlikely from such a distance.
e summit of this hill is popularly known as Cromwells Hill.
Cannon were set up in St. Patricks church grounds from where he attacked the Castle and city walls.
After the Battle of the Boyne, King William camped at (Cannon Hill) Bennettsbridge and wrote his famous address to Kilkenny Corporation.
e great highway from Leighlin bridge, Gowran to Bennetts bridge, Burnchurch, Ballymack, Mullinahone into Munster was the route that William took to Limerick.
• e ‘Cross Keys’ mentioned in this article as the departure point for the stagecoach was a tavern situated where Argos is now. It would later change its name to ‘ e Coach and horse’
• Fennels Hill is where Altamount is now.
• * You will note the di erent spellings of the Aughmalogue bridge. e spelling varies depending on which book or records you read.
SOURCES: Kilkenny by John Hogan, 1884.
is week e Kilkenny
Observer welcomes ‘Cois Ceim’ with a very interesting tale of the journey from Dublin to Kilkenny.
With thanks to e Saturday Walkers Club
In ancient times a pathway ran from the ford over the Barrow at Leighlin Bridge by Shankill Castle through the village of Garrydu to Highrath Castle then over the river Nore to Outrath and down into Kilkenny.
When the course of this pathway was interrupted by the construction of the mills at Maddoxtown its continuation by Highrath was useless.
About this time the portion of the road from the railway crossing at Highrath down by Aughmolog was opened up as an approach road for the rst time conducted into the city of Kilkenny.
Fortunately we are in a position to establish the precise date of its opening.
In the year 1731 an Act was passed in the Irish Parliament for the repairing of the road leading from Kilcullen through the towns of Castledermot, Caherlough, and Laughlin Bridge and from thence to the city of Kilkenny.
e Act goes on to describe the hollow ways and of the many and heavy waggons frequently passing through same have made same ruinous and bad, and impassable in Winter.
e Act then proceeds that for the Surveying, Ordering,
and keeping in repair the said Highway or road, one hundred and ninety peers and gentlemen are appointed trustees.
Any ve or more of them can appoint and authorise or cause to be erected one or more gates, turn pikes on any part of the roads and also a toll house.
As this Act formed the Charter upon the turn pike system was rst introduced into County Kilkenny. is Act was passed in 1731 and the object of it was immediately entrusted to William Colles of Millmount for execution.
e works must have been carried on with Great Spirit for the Dublin road appears at least to have been t for travelling by the year 1737. For it appears from an advertisement in an old Dublin newspaper “Pue’s Occurrences” January 1737
John Walsh who keeps the Kilkenny Stagecoach gives notice that he will set out from Dublin and Kilkenny at 7 o’clock in the morning on every Monday and ursday during the Summer and run through in two days (accidents excepted). Twenty pounds of weight of luggage will be allowed for every person and one penny per pound to be paid for every pound over.
e perils of travelling to Dublin about this time were well preserved in local traditions and gossip.
ere were people who would tell you that they remember persons making their wills before venturing on a journey to the capital.
John Walsh’s stage coach mentioned earlier seems to have been identical with the coach named “Fly Diligence” which started from the “Cross Keys” in High Street. is was a vehicle of celebrity as it was the only means of conveyance from Dublin to Kilkenny during the latter half of the 18th Century.
John Banim the Kilkenny novelist left a record of the Diligence.
“In those days it was thought no waste of time or energy if the Diligence accomplished a journey of sixty Irish miles in forty hours, from or to the Metropolis”.
Days before his departure a tender gloom shaded his domestic circle machine.
Upon the doomed morning not only members of the family but friends escorted to the
side of the machine, and there tearful and embraces were interchanged.
e scene on the return of the Diligence from Dublin, upon a hill outside the town (Fennel’s Hill,) many persons were assembled hoping to catch along the distant road a sight of the Diligence.
It was late on a winters evening but su cient light still remained.
ey had been assembled since before three o’clock, and had now strained their eyes more than an hour but without a promise of the expected object.
“ e group descended the hill and returned to the city in despair and it was not until the following evening the Diligence arrived in town. It’s entrance through the streets as described by John Banim, at length there appeared an avaunt courier in the person of the town fool running and jumping towards the Cross Keys and ourishing a stick over his head crying out “we have her home at last” she is our own darling Dilly.”
Around the corner of the Parade two helpers trotted on bareheaded before the horses.
e driver who was enthroned in the huge box seat told how much he was satis ed with the unusual spirit of this approach to the Cross Keys.
e expectant townspeople gathered around demanding to know if their friends were safe.
Amid renewed cheers the passengers alighted from the coach.
e well-known village of Outrath (1867) is situated
e high road from that point by Lyrath and Aughmalogue into Kilkenny is a modern
e Journal of the South East of Ireland Archaeological Society 1867
TU Dublin estimates the monthly cost for students living away from home to be €1,566, with an annual total of €14,094. Rent constitutes the largest portion of this cost at €685 per month, followed by utilities, food, travel, and other expenses. For students living at home, the monthly cost of living is projected to be €701, resulting in an annual total of €6,309. e cost of utilities, food, travel, and other expenses contributed to this estimate.
Here are the credit union's tried-and-tested tips to make that student budget stretch beyond the necessities!
Budget like a pro
Most students have no student budget or nancial plan! We know there’s nothing remotely interesting or exciting about budgeting, but you can’t ignore the advantages. Put just one hour aside of your hectic social life and focus
on the task. You can thank us later when you’ve enough extra cash to sip on a cocktail or craft beer instead of making do with what you’re sure can double as drain cleaner. Write down all sources of money coming in for the month. Next, write down all money going out, starting with the substantial items like rent, travel, books and utility bills. en look at the money you spend on co ees, groceries, eating out, social life and more. Once you have everything written down, you can see clearly where you can cut back, spend less and have a little extra at the end of the month. Shop around for your utilities and subscriptions; many phone and subscription services provide free trials and half-price contracts, while mobile phone companies have loyalty deals. It's important to cancel subscriptions you are no longer using, as they all add up.
Learn how to cook
Why spend all of your student budget on take-aways and college restaurants? You’ll quickly nd out you won’t have much change left for anything else. Of course, you could opt to live on a diet of frozen pizza and instant noodles, but this will soon have you looking and feeling malnourished. You’ll be coughing up (excuse the pun) for expensive vitamins and supplements, especially during busier times or exams. Instead, why not feast on your cheap yet nutritious culinary creations?
ere are tons of free, student budget-friendly, quick and easy dinner recipes on the internet. Many will focus on staple ingredients you can get cheaply in your local supermarket.
Shop like a ninja
We all know the urban myth about the ultimate penny-
pincher who’s been banned from the local supermarket for stalking employees around the store while they discount food. While we’re not suggesting you morph into the campus miser, there is some method to this madness.
ere’s no harm doing a little asking around to nd out when your local shops/supermarkets reduce their prices. If you can make an e ort to shop at that time and take advantage of the discounts, you could be stocking your freezer with premium quality goods despite being on a student budget!
ere are a few more hacks to saving big on your grocery bill. Always shop with a list. Most supermarkets now will provide portable price-checkers, never shop without one if you can! Buy for the full week. Buy staples such as pasta, rice, cereal etc. in bulk. Don’t be fooled by two-for-one deals that will actually cost more money. Devise a rota for your housemates for laundry powder and toilet paper so the cost is spread evenly. Buy supermarket own-brand, but check out markets for fruit and veg as you can often nd better quality and cheaper prices. And never shop on an empty stomach!
Become a coupon/student discount scavenger
During your rst week or two on campus you will nd
coupons red at you from all angles. Take them all. Take two. You never know when they will come in handy. Keep your eyes peeled for coupons everywhere. Sign up for ALL loyalty cards. You will bene t from discounts, vouchers and special o ers in supermarkets. Use your student card absolutely everywhere you can. Unsure whether somewhere o ers a student discount? Don’t hesitate to ask!
Vintage King (or Queen)
Many students cut spending on clothes in order to cope with costs during the college year. ere is nothing wrong with this and it’s good to see some forgoing new clothes to try and stick to a student budget. But that doesn’t mean you can’t treat yourself a little every now and again. Vintage clothes have never been so popular, so why not take full advantage of the bargains? You can look e ortlessly on-trend for a couple of euros. Flea markets and kilo sales are your best friend while in college.
Do NOT get a credit card
We know you’re too intelligent to do this anyway while on a student budget, so we won’t labour the point.
Gourmet co ee x for less
A takeaway co ee ve-daysa-week turns into a pretty ex-
pensive habit. Do your best to limit the habit. Instead, spend a few euros on a small French press, then grab yourself a bag of a ordable ground co ee beans during your weekly shop. Bring your freshly-made brew into campus in your keep-cup – and do your bit for the environment while getting your ca eine x.
Be strategic about joining clubs and socs
Joining college clubs and societies (socs) is an amazing way to broaden your horizons, meet like-minded people and develop your athletic, creative or academic skills. While it’s an important aspect of student life, if you want to be strategic about it, you can suss out the biggest and most popular clubs and socs and ensure you join up. ey will usually have the biggest budgets for parties, trips and the like. You’ll have a top social life without having to delve too deep into your student budget.
If you want more detailed tips on budgeting for student life, or if you need additional nancial assistance to help cope with college costs, talk to your local credit union, who’ll be more than happy to help!
Unsure about why a credit union loan is better than the others? Talk to them to nd out the range of bene ts that come with a credit union loan!
Waterford College of Further Education (WCFE) is delighted to announce changes to fees for its PLC programmes. Following a decision taken by Waterford and Wexford Education and Training Board (WWETB), WCFE will be eliminating fees for PLC students, and introducing kit rental and a course contribution instead. ese changes will be implemented from September 2023, ensuring that students enrolling in courses for the next academic year can bene t from the new structure.
“I am absolutely delighted that WCFE is in a position to eliminate fees for PLC students from September," Noreen Reilly, Principal of WCFE stated. "As a college committed to providing high-quality and accessible education, we strive to create an environment where students can thrive and reach their full potential. e decision to eliminate fees and introduce a course contribution and kit rental programme aligns perfectly with our mission to make education more a ordable and
accessible to all."
e implementation of the fee changes involves replacing the existing fee structure with a nominal course contribution of €200 for students across all courses. is course contribution will help to cover operational costs while signi cantly reducing the nancial burden on students. Additionally, certain courses will require students to rent kits instead of purchasing them, further alleviating the nancial strain associated with expensive equipment or materials. On completion of the courses where kits are rented, students will be reimbursed the rental costs.
Noreen continues, "At WCFE, we believe that education should not be hindered by nancial constraints. By reducing the nancial burden on students, we aim to open doors of opportunity and empower students from all walks of life to pursue their educational aspirations. is initiative will enable a wider range of students to access the education and skills they need to succeed
in their chosen careers."
Looking to the future, Noreen expresses her hopes and plans for WCFE, saying, "Our vision for WCFE is to continue to be a leading college that prepares students for the challenges and opportunities of the modern world. We will continue to innovate, improve our programmes, and provide outstanding support services to meet the evolving needs of our students. Our aim is to create
an environment where students can thrive academically, develop practical skills, and gain the con dence to pursue successful careers."
WCFE is committed to supporting students beyond the classroom. e college o ers comprehensive student support services to address the diverse needs of students. ese services may include academic support, study skills workshops, mental health counselling, dis-
ability support, and access to learning resources. e goal is to ensure that students have the necessary support to overcome challenges and reach their full potential.
WCFE also o ers dedicated guidance counselling services, where trained professionals assist students in making informed decisions about their academic and career paths. ese counsellors provide personalised guidance, helping
students explore their interests, set goals, and develop plans for their future.
Recognising the importance of digital access, WCFE operates a laptop loan scheme. is initiative allows students who may not have access to personal computers to borrow laptops for their coursework and online learning. By providing access to technology, WCFE ensures that students have the necessary tools to engage effectively with their studies and stay connected in an increasingly digital world.
WCFE is a further education college under the umbrella of WWETB. All PLC programmes operating throughout WWETB centres and colleges will bene t from the decision to abolish PLC fees. In Waterford, this includes PLC programmes that operate within Dungarvan College – Coláiste Dhún Gharbhán.
WCFE are welcoming applications for the September 2023 academic year. For more information visit www.wcfe.ie, or call the o ce on 051 874053.
“This course is an excellent grounding in creative media production and an excellent progression route to higher levels of education”, says Gareth Hanlon, the course Coordinator. “Last year 90% of our learners received their full level 5 QQI major award.”
The course is very practical from day one, with the first video creations happening in the first week. Drama, comedy, music and podcasting workshops are peppered throughout the programme. Learners can also expect a number of road trips to exhibitions, film festivals and college open days.
The student centred team at YIFM work with each learner to define their personal projects, which will include video, audio, photography and design. Where possible, other students help you with productions, photography and other creative services. You feed into their portfolios and they into yours. It’s like a creative family scenario, “we even have a wellbeing officer on the team” to ensure learners have their best experience.
to create social media content as part of their work experience module.
“With commitment, learners will build a significant portfolio, and a solid foundation in the Adobe Creative Suite, including Premiere Pro, Photoshop and InDesign”, explains Gareth. The feedback we get from our students is excellent, one student in particular, forwarded this message to the staff upon completion of the course: “Thank you all so much guys the best year I’ve ever had”.
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Explaining the entry requirements, Gareth states, “You must be over 16 yrs (and up to 35 yrs). It is usually Level 4 or equivalent to join us, however, the real requirement is a passion for creative media, film making, photography or graphic design.”
Also, there is generally payment for attending the course. You will need to be signed on to Intreo, on Disability payment or be an early school leaver to qualify. There is also assistance with travel costs where appropriate.
Young Irish Filmmakers are opening registration for their CREATIVE MEDIA PRODUCTION course which is starting this September.
This practical full time course is aimed at anyone interested in exploring a future in the creative industries. Students work on projects including film, photography, graphic design,
podcasting and much more as they build their skills and develop a portfolio. With a QQI level 5 award on completion, this course qualification can be used for college applications or entry into the creative sector. Registrations are now open on our website and if you like what you see, you can sign up for this in demand course at
The Kilkenny City based course runs full time for 44 weeks and begins in September 2023. The course is a full time foundation in all things media. Every September, 20 creative people aged 16+, sign up for 44 weeks of learning through practical creative projects involving community groups, local festivals and even working with local businesses
B2 Level of English is required for entry onto this course.
Places go fast, to be on the list, go to Fetchcourses.ie or visit YIFM.COM/
For further details about the course contact course coordinator Gareth Hanlon on gareth@yifm.com or call 05677 64677.
Kilkenny is about to play host to over 80 musicians and music lovers from Texas who will roll into town for almost two weeks of live music, kicking o in Billy Byrnes, John Street, on August 28th. Not only will the city be treated to some incredible Texas music, every gig is free!
e Texas Tornado Tour has made Kilkenny a stop on their calendar every year since 2018, however, this year the Marble City will be more than just s stop, it will be their base and main destination for their entire trip.
e tour consists of some of the nest country artists in Texas who will take the stage in various venues throughout Kilkenny City. Here are the dates and venues so far –
Tuesday August 29th –
Billy Byrnes – John Street – 7pm
Nine artists will take the stage in Billy Byrnes for the opening night including Jeremiah Herrin who is an Americana artist from North Texas. His music is the sound of bluegrass with a heavy in uence of southern rock. Jeremiah has been in uenced by bands such as e Boxcars, e Steeldrivers and ZZ Top. His songwriting will capture you as it always tells a story. You can't help but hear the bluegrass in uence in his writing. Also on the bill is Randy Brown, Mike Mancy, Austin Allsup, Je Grossman, Mike Stanley, Steve Helmes, Billy Don Burns and Ben McPherson.
Wednesday August 30th
– An Poc Fada – Rose Inn Street – 7pm is night will feature ve fantastic artists including the legendary Billy Don Burns. Billy Don Burns is a true Country Music Warrior. He wears his battle scars with honour, depicting the stories of his life in his songs with brutal and beautiful honesty. He’s respected far and wide for his long career in songwriting and performing. BDB is one of the few remaining original outlaw country music singer/songwriters, and is in his 53rd year in the business. His songs have been recorded by many of the old greats like Willie Nelson, Johnny Paycheck, Mel Tillis, Sammy Kershaw. And, by many of the new guys like Cody Jinks, Colter Wall, Whitey Morgan and more. BDB has made several appearances on the Grand Ole Opry. When his "Desperate Men" album went to #1 on the Americana chart, replacing Johnny Cash who had been there for 14 weeks, Billy Don received a handwritten note; "Congratulations! You deserve it. I'll be happy to move out of the #1 spot and let you have it. I been there. Done that." - Johnny Cash
His current album features country music legends Cody Jinks and Shooter Jennings. Joining Billy on the line up is
ursday August 31st – Set
eatre – John Street is night is considered the main event for the Texas group as they will feature many of the artists on the trip backed by the incredible JC All Stars Band.
Many of the artists are veterans who take part in the Rock e Troops programme which o ers healing through songwriting and music. ey will write songs here in Kilkenny and perform them on the night in Set eatre.
Also on the line up are some incredible Texas artists including Randy Brown
who has been a Texas singer, songwriter, musician and showman for over thirty years. is troubadour can entertain a crowd like no other. Randy has made a huge impact on the hearts of music lovers not only in Texas but worldwide. Hugely popular on the Texas music scene, Randy is no stranger to Kilkenny and is looking forward to returning to entertain the Marble City.
Friday September 1st –Ryans Bar
e JC All Stars are due to rock Ryans on September 1st
with an impressive line-up of guest artists including Steve Helms from Cleburne, Texas, who has enjoyed the success of 24 radio singles, gaining him huge popularity throughout the USA.
Austin Allsup is also on the line up for the Ryans show. Austin was a finalist in the American Voice contest, performing to over 6 million people on live television, gaining him a huge following throughout America.
Austin has a new album coming out in the coming months. Also on the bill is Mike Mancy, Ben McPherson, Billy Don Burns and Jeremiah Herrin.
Saturday September 2nd– The Barrel Yard at The Smithwick’s Experience –5pm Local band, e presidents are due to hit the stage at the
Barrel Yard on September 2nd and they will be joined by a selection of Texas artists for a jam session. is promises to be a party with e
Presidents classic rock cover songs and a tinge of Texas from our visitors.
More gigs to be announced next week.
Who remembers sitting in on a Saturday night as the family gathered around the TV to watch Bruce Forsyth’s ‘ e Generation Game’? We watched as the di erent generations of the family played a game for small prizes on a TV whose signal would slip in and out of grainy focus depending on the weather outside as we used the BBC aerial on the chimney. No high de nition in those days!
How times have changed. As soon as a senior uses the immortal words of “in my day…”, that’s the signal for this generation to turn up the volume on their iPad. e iPad they are ‘entitled’ to have. Not earn, but entitled to have! As is their entitlement to have an iPhone 5 or 6 or whatever number is the top of the range. I am sorry to say, we created a generation of ‘we are entitled’. We can all remember, not that long ago I may add, where
if you wanted something, you worked for it. You did some household chores for pocket money, got a summer job or went to work for the local farmer picking the spuds from the cold mucky elds. You then saved the few pounds, shillings and pence, and then you went to the store and purchased what you had worked hard to get. You really felt proud of your achievements and valued your new gift to yourself! In my case it was a 45 Single from Sherwood’s on High Street. Unfortunately, that part of family life has come and gone. How many young sons and
daughters have a list of daily jobs to do with the reward of pocket money at the weekend?
Very few I would guess. Now when our little Johnny and Mary want something, they ask and they receive. Why? Because they believe they are entitled to have everything that are top shelf products.
“I’ll only wear Nike!” or “my friends parents bought her an Apple iPhone!”
Who’s to blame? We are!
Over the last number of years, we have created a society where we have only winners and no losers. We now feel that we can’t let Johnny or Mary feel left out. We must give a
medal to all who competed. erefore, nishing last is as good as those who worked hard to nish rst. We reward them for their failure, but we have decided that’s ok. e young person who nished last is now being thought to believe that even in failure they are entitled to reward. e competitor who nished rst will in time realise, “why am I pushing myself? I would be entitled to more if I nished behind Johnny who was rewarded for his lack of e ort.” is now has transcended into our daily lives. I may be wrong, and I am sure many who read this will
disagree with this conclusion, but we have created a generation in our society who now believe they are entitled. We are entitled to a house, we are entitled to schools, medical services, childcare, and the list goes on. ey are no longer working towards attaining their life's dreams. In some cases, the items listed above are required to be universally available. In other cases, we have to teach our next generation that they will get what they wish for by putting in the e ort. Our political parties can’t be ignored here either. ey sell what they believe will get
them into power, regardless of the cost to the country. ey create the impression of entitlement, but forget to tell us how we, as a country, are going to pay for it in the future, more than likely when they are out of government and back on the opposition benches. ere is no FREE entitlements. ey have to be paid for in our taxes. Some of the political parties are like ‘ e Late Late Show’ if it was being presented by Dana. ere are ‘all kinds of everything for everyone in the audience’.
We should reward e ort rather than putting failure on the same step of the ladder to success. e last generations worked for what they wanted and what they needed. ey strived for success for their loved ones to bene t from. I am so sad to have to say, this current generation is now being misled into the belief that you are entitled to whatever you wish for, and if you are not up to scratch, we will reward you for your lack of e ort.
Imagine ‘ e Generation Game’ and the Murphy family wins with the most points, then Bruce announces “and for the Kelly family who didn’t get an answer right, don’t worry you are going to receive the same prizes as the excellent Murphy family, because we don’t want you to feel as if you are di erent, or not as good as the actually winners of the Generation Game!”
Photos for Thomastown launch by ‘Aidona’ photography
This year’s Alternative Kilkenny Arts festival (AKA) saw a wealth of local talent exhibit their fantastic art and skilled craftsmanship across Kilkenny and Thomastown.
Pat Shortall is one such talent who launched his third book of poetry, Words for the Curious Mind, in the Ormonde College and in Thomastown Concert Hall during the festival. The Kilkenny Observer attended both launches. The preliminary launch of the book took place in the Ormond College on August 12th and was attended by Mayor Joe Malone, Monsignor Ryan, Councillor Pat Fitzpatrick
as well as many of Pat’s friends, family, neighbours, and contributors to his CRKC radio show, Sunday Serendipity. The event was hosted by Pat’s daughter, Catherine Cronin, who recalled how her
father’s love of nature and words fostered a great delight in poetry in her from a young age.
Catherine was particularly grateful and touched by how Pat had dedicated his latest book to her and her siblings, Patrick and Mags.
Pat’s friend, Kevin Curry, gave a warm introduction to the main launch of the book in Thomastown on the evening of August 17th. Indeed, Pat acknowledges that Mr. Curry has been instrumental in the editorial process for this book. Friends and poetry enthusiasts were in attendance including Councillor David Fitzgerald. Tributes were paid to the late Pat Shortis, for whom Pat wrote a poem in his new collection. This piece was read by Ger Cody and was a real highlight of Attendees to these events were treated to recitations from other readers, including Kathleen Curran, Carolyn Dunne, Margaret Holohan, Angela Kiernan, Ivan Cronin, Brendan Corcoran, Ailish Burke, Mags Shortall, Leisha Thomas, Catherine Murphy, Teresa Ryan and Donal Croghan. The Mayor
the night. supported both
launches in his attendance and spoke of Pat’s passion for poetry and contribution to the local arts community.
Councillor Fitzpatrick
also offered praise in his enthusiastic comments to the audience at the Ormonde College launch.
Pat spoke at both occasions and, on
Wednesday, read a particularly moving poem called, “Safe in my mind” which is dedicated to his mother, Annie, who passed away when he was
6-years-old. He also offered his sincere gratitude to those in attendance; his fellow Ormonde College exhibitors, his Sunday Serendipity community,
the AKA festival, those who helped out at the launch including, his sister-inlaw, Kathleen, son-inlaw, Ivan, Ber and Billy Phelan, Dina Bambrick, his
nieces, Brenda O’Sullivan and Mary Kelly, and his wonderful wife Gerardine.
Words for the Curious Mind is the final instalment in Pat’s trilogy of poetry
books. It takes readers on a journey through Pat’s love of nature, Kilkenny, people, and storytelling. His keen eye makes the ordinary seem unexpected
and beautiful all at once in poems that are open to everyone. Pat’s book rewards the curious mind with an understanding of the sadness, but, ultimately,
the humour of life. His poem, “These Cannot be”, is a list of things that coexist and are interdependent: ‘Child without Play’, ‘Up without down’, ‘Life without
loss’, etcetera. One could happily add, ‘Pat Shortall without poetry’ to that list.
Copies of the book can be purchased by phoning Gerardine on 085 7895320
Rás na mBan, is Ireland's top bike race for women, attracting riders from all over USA, Oceania, Africa and Asia. In the 2022 Rás, Team Ireland’s Lara Gillespie sprinted to victory in the opening stage of Rás na mBan, leading home a large bunch into Callan. Gillespie’s win was the rst for an Irish rider since Olivia Dillon’s success in 2014. is year, Marine Lenehan will be in the starting lineup, taking on her rst Rás. Marine, grew up in Wicklow, and moved to France when she was 5. Now back living in Wicklow, she is riding with Team Dan Morrissey Pac-
timo squad, a Carlow-based team. Marine, a very talented young athlete, previously a hurdler and a triathlete, has just won a silver medal in the World Championships and is the current GranFondo European Champion. She's preparing for her rst international stage race at Rás na mBan.
Yvonne Doran, omastown, will also be lining up for the Rás. Yvonne is a seasoned Rás na mBan rider and has had three top ve nishes under her belt this year in the National Series.
Yvonne came to the sport later in life, “I did a charity cycle with work and from
that, I went on to do the Tour de Kilkenny, a great event by Marble City Cyclers. I was asked would I consider racing and it just spiralled from there! It’s a sport that’s not out of anyone’s reach. It’s like a community, you meet other women and there’s a real social element and you get to know everyone. I was really wowed by the Rás, there is huge organisation behind it and the atmosphere is incredible with the international teams, all the languages, cultures and accents, the road closures and the amazing nish outside the Castle. It’s astounding the number of Kilkenny
riders who have competed at that level; Mia Gri n, Jane Cullen and Elizabeth Kent and this comes down to having the Rás here, it’s an accolade to ride the Rás”
As amateurs, Marine and Yvonne juggle their professional lives whilst keeping up with the demands of competing and preparing for the Rás. Both riders will be hoping to complete the six stages of the event, 400km of racing over ve days. e rst stage nish in Callan on Wednesday evening, includes two laps of a 13km nish circuit which will o er spectators at the nish line three chances
to see the riders during the day. e day two race to Inistioge includes a grippy and spectacular conclusion at Woodstock, with an expected nish at 1.45pm.
Day three moves to the Slieve Bloom mountains for the ‘Queen of the Mountains Stage’ and will be followed by another tough day of racing with a nish at Tramore on Saturday.
On hearing con rmation of the line-up for Rás na mBan this year, Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr. Michael Doyle, said: "We are thrilled to welcome Rás na mBan back to Kilkenny for its 17th edition this September. It's an honour to have such an event on our home turf, and we are particularly proud to see Irish and local riders making their mark in the lineup.
e participation of Marine Lenehan and Yvonne Doran showcases the incredible talent that the region has to o er. eir dedication to balancing their professional lives with their passion for cycling is truly inspiring. We extend our heartfelt support to all the riders as they take on the challenging stages ahead. Kilkenny is ready to cheer them on every pedal of the way."
e nal day of the race moves back to Kilkenny on Sunday, the 10th, for two
stages. In the morning, with a 9.00a.m. start, the riders will face individual 2.5km time trials, starting out on e Parade and completing a technical route with sharp cornering along by Canal Walk and around the walls of the Castle against the watch. e nal stage of the week is the hugely popular circuit race in Kilkenny City Centre, the fastest stage of the week, approximately an hour and fteen minutes of high-octane city centre racing after which the champion of Rás na mBan 2023 will be crowned. is is fantastic opportunity to get out and show some home town support for the two riders.
Mayor of Kilkenny City, Cllr. Joe Malone, welcomed the announcement of the lineup by saying: "As the Mayor of Kilkenny City, I am delighted to see Rás na mBan returning to our vibrant city once again. is event not only brings excitement and energy to our streets but also celebrates the dedication of women cyclists from Ireland and around the world. I encourage everyone to come out and support these remarkable athletes as they race towards victory in this prestigious competition particularly our local athletes, Marine Lenehan and Yvonne Doran."
Arts Week saw the publication of two little gems from writers whose work transcends all social divides (real or imagined), appealing to just about anyone who enjoys a little recreational word-play.
Judy Rhatigan and Peter Brabazon launched their books halfway through the hectic seven days of celebration and creativity in the county.
Judy chose the Book and Co ee Shop in William Street, Kilkenny, for the occasion.
e café is run by critically acclaimed novelist Marion O’ Neill. It’s is a little Aladdin’s Cave of literary treasures and part of Kilkenny’s thriving intellectual hub.
On any day of the week you’ll nd a few of the Marble City’s weighty makers and shakers sipping their co ees or lattes, sharing ideas or catching up on the latest comings and goings in a city that’s shaping up to be the Arts Mecca of the South East.
What an apt setting for the launch of e Raggedy Bush Poems. Judy Rhatigan’s book is a heartwarming collection that takes up, in a sense, where her 2019 memoir
Beyond the Briary Wood left o . She plumbs the depths of memory to retrieve those precious images and wordpictures that accumulated over the decades of her deeply ful lling life, creating a symphony of graphic evocation that pulls gently but compellingly at the heartstrings.
To appreciate the wondrous world of yesteryear to which she reaches out across time and space, just close your eyes and try to forget about our hi-tech consumer society, moving at breakneck speed, with gadgets of all sorts buzzing and ashing, and the art of conversation increasingly backed into a corner- or silenced- by a tidal wave of I phones and so-called smart devices.
Instead, think of that Other Ireland where picking blackberries or a visit to the cinema was a special treat, or tending to a garden (Judy’s one is work of art in itself), or painting a landscape under a pre-Climate Change summer sky, all the owers blooming and the hedges sagging with fruit; or calling into a small shop where you’d have time for a chat.
Or threshing day, when community spirit surged as neighbors and friends pooled their e orts, all helping each other at harvest time in an age when few homes had a house phone, let alone anything more sophisticated, when gossip was con ned to the pubs and street corners and social media was undreamt of. It is to that “other country” as the past has been called, that Judy takes us in her poetry.
All the poems are infused with a passionate love of
nature and in fact, long before the biodiversity crisis was mulled (and without the bene t of a crystal ball), Judy wrote: “Now they must replenish the earth. Leave the bogs to the frogs, the hedges to the birds, the woods to reseed themselves, streams to ow with watercress, and green mosses to shelter bugs and slugs…”
Judy. ey took turns eulogizing her poetry.
with a moving guitar tribute to Judy.
and ancient street corners that city dwellers and visitors will readily identity.
It wasn’t plain sailing for him, and he earned every cent of the modest takings that accrued to him over the nine months. His account sparkles with humour. Penny Lane was a killer to sing, he laments, and he got “pennies” for his e orts.
On some days he had to compete for space and an audience with, for example, brass bands, tour guides, Jehovah’s Witnesses, sausage dogs, and Defence Force personnel rattling charity collection buckets.
He played in the foulest of weather. Standing dutifully in hail storms, lashing rain, and howling winds, he belted out the tunes, nimbly alternating between guitars, mandolin and harmonica as the elements conspired to undo his heroic renditions.
Undaunted, he sang on even when a grumpy fellow inadvertently kicked his little cap containing a few cent into a puddle of water. Nothing could quell his musical zeal… whether he sang his own compositions or the songs of John Denver, the Beatles, Bob Dylan or e Water boys.
the story of what happened when he took to the streets to entertain.
Peter had in mind a kind of social experiment. He wanted to test human reactions to his performances in the unregulated and unpredictable milieu of the wide open urbane spaces, away from his familiar cozy indoor stage settings or the resides of the many pubs he’s played in.
e book title was inspired by the idea of a gestation period. After the nine months he expected that there might be a “delivery” of sorts, perhaps a decisive result of his experiment… or an “aha” moment that he could then write or sing about, or maybe incorporate into a future poem.
Reading of his exploits is a pleasure for anyone familiar with the Kilkenny streetscape. He busked at places like the olsel Arch, in the Butterslip, and on all the medieval lanes
Peter launched his book at Fennelly’s of Callan, the internationally renowned, multi-award winning arts café. He also sang some of his favourite numbers and recited the haunting tale of the Martian who landed at Ballydehob.
Partly disguised as a piece of black comedic verse, it hinted at the distrust and suspicion that so often greets newcomers or perceived “outsiders”…not just in Ireland but anywhere that human beings are confronted or challenged with the unknown or the unfamiliar.
Fennelly’s courtyard lled up quickly and there was barely standing room for an audience that got to hear the talented author sing in the converted former farmyard that has been likened to a lm set in lavish online reviews. It was one of many such events scheduled for Fennelly’s. Some topnotch entertainers will play there over the coming weeks.
9 Months a-Busking is on sale (at ve euro) in Callan at Joe Lyons’s fruit and veg shop and may soon be available elsewhere.
e
cream of Kilkenny’s literati and glitterati turned out in force to show their support for
Pillars of the artistic community such as Ger Cody, actor Brendan Corcoran, Mary Cradock, Joe Murray, Ger Mullally, and of course Judy’s illustrious husband, Jimmy, whose portrayal of poet Patrick Kavanagh in Geo Rose’s Where Old Ghosts Meet is a legendary and a must-see event for all drama lovers. Actor/singer Joe Murray concluded the launch
e Raggedy Bush Poems is on sale at all Kilkenny book shops.
Singer Peter Brabazon is another Poet of the People who’s tried his hand at writing prose, having penned two books of poetry.
If you’ve ever wondered what life as a busker might be like, do pick up his book on the subject. In 9 Months a-busking the author relates
Total time: 2 hrs and 30 mins
Serves: 6
Gordon Ramsay’s version of the classic steak dish – a showstopping centrepiece on a special occasion.
Ingredients
• a good beef llet (preferably Aberdeen Angus) of around 1kg/2lb 4oz
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 250g/9oz chestnut mushroom, include some wild ones if you like
• 50g/2oz butter
• 1 large sprig fresh thyme
• 100ml/3.5 oz dry white wine
• 12 slices prosciutto
• 500g/1lb 2oz pack pu pastry, thawed if frozen
• a little our, for dusting
• 2 egg yolks beaten with 1 tsp water
Method STEP 1
Heat oven to 220C/fan 200C/gas 7.
STEP 2
Sit the 1kg beef llet on a roasting tray, brush with 1 tbsp olive oil and season with pepper, then roast for 15 mins for medium-rare or 20 mins for medium. When the beef is cooked to your liking, remove from the oven to cool, then chill in the fridge for about 20 mins.
STEP 3
While the beef is cooling, chop 250g chestnut (and wild, if you like) mushrooms as nely as possible so they have the texture of coarse breadcrumbs. You can use a food processor to do this, but make sure you pulse-chop the mushrooms so they don’t become a slurry.
STEP 4
Heat 2 tbsp of the olive oil and 50g butter in a large pan and fry the mushrooms on a medium heat, with 1 large sprig fresh thyme, for about 10 mins stirring often, until you have a softened mixture.
STEP 5
Season the mushroom mixture, pour over 100ml dry white wine and cook for about 10 mins until all the wine has been absorbed. e mixture should hold its shape when stirred.
STEP 6
Remove the mushroom duxelle from the pan to cool and discard the thyme.
STEP 7
Overlap two pieces of cling lm over
a large chopping board. Lay 12 slices prosciutto on the cling lm, slightly overlapping, in a double row.
STEP 8
Spread half the duxelles over the prosciutto, then sit the llet on it and spread the remaining duxelles over.
STEP 9
Use the cling lm’s edges to draw the prosciutto around the llet, then roll it into a sausage shape, twisting the ends of cling lm to tighten it as you go.
STEP 10
Chill the llet while you roll out the pastry.
STEP 11
Dust your work surface with a little our. Roll out a third of the 500g pack
of pu pastry to a 18 x 30cm strip and place on a non-stick baking sheet.
STEP 12
Roll out the remainder of the 500g pack of pu pastry to about 28 x 36cm.
STEP 13
Unravel the llet from the cling lm and sit it in the centre of the smaller strip of pastry.
STEP 14
Beat the 2 egg yolks with 1 tsp water and brush the pastry’s edges, and the top and sides of the wrapped llet.
STEP 15
Using a rolling pin, carefully lift and drape the larger piece of pastry over the llet, pressing well into the sides.
Trim the joins to about a 4cm rim. Seal the rim with the edge of a fork or spoon handle.
STEP 17
Glaze all over with more egg yolk and, using the back of a knife, mark the beef Wellington with long diagonal lines taking care not to cut into the pastry.
STEP 18
Chill for at least 30 mins and up to 24 hrs. Heat oven to 200C/fan 180C/gas 6.
STEP 19
Brush the Wellington with a little more egg yolk and cook until golden and crisp – 20-25 mins for mediumrare beef, 30 mins for medium. Allow to stand for 10 mins before serving in thick slices.
Prep: 25 mins
Cook: 10 mins
Plus chilling
Serves: 8
Quick and simple to make, this raspberry tiramisu is perfect as an indulgent summer centrepiece.
Ingredients
•6 egg yolks
•175g caster sugar
•300ml pot double cream
•2 x 250g tubs mascarpone
•1 tbsp vanilla extract
•150ml marsala or sweet wine
•24 sponge ngers
•350g raspberry
•icing sugar, to dust
Method
STEP 1
Place a heatproof bowl over a pan of simmering water with the egg yolks and the sugar in, whisk until pale, creamy and doubled in volume. Remove from the heat and whisk for another 1 min until cool.
STEP 2
In another bowl beat the cream, mascarpone and vanilla until
combined, thick and creamy. Fold or very gently whisk this mixture into the creamy yolks.
STEP 3
Dip half the sponge ngers into the marsala and arrange over the bottom of a serving dish. Pour over half of the creamy mixture, then top with most of the raspberries. Repeat the layers, then nish by dotting over the remaining raspberries. Cover and chill for at least 2 hrs.
STEP 4
Dust the tiramisu with icing sugar just before serving in big bowls.
e Net ix miniseries Painkiller dramatises the very real opioid crisis that has a icted the United States since the 1990s, and spends a great deal of screen-time on those who started it all: the Sackler family, whose company Purdue Pharma pushed OxyContin into the hands of doctors — and subsequently patients— with a greater focus on increasing their pro ts than on the drug’s highly addictive properties.
Several real-life members of the Sackler family are portrayed in the show, including the brothers Arthur (Clark Gregg), Mortimer (John Rothman) and Raymond (Sam Anderson), who co-founded the family empire. Raymond’s son,
Richard Sackler, is played by Matthew Broderick. It was Richard Sackler who played a pivotal role in developing OxyContin and securing FDA approval, and he is the member of the family that appears most prominently in Painkiller.
e Sacklers have been described as simultaneously “the worst drug dealers in history” and the “most evil family in America,” and, yet despite facing multiple law suits, Painkiller ends with nobody in the family facing legal consequences for their role in the crisis that has cost approximately 300,000 overdose deaths.
Arthur Sackler died of a heart attack in 1987, years before the invention of OxyContin. Despite that
fact, he appears in Painkiller as a manifestation of his nephew Richard’s subconscious.
Mortimer and Raymond Sackler both lived into their 90s. Mortimer renounced his US citizenship in the 1970s and lived exclusively in Switzerland until his death in 2010 at the age of 93. Raymond enjoyed a reputation as a billionaire and philanthropist, despite his associations with Purdue, and died of a heart attack at 97 in 2017.
Richard Sackler stepped down from his role as President of Purdue in 2003, but remained on the company’s board. He has since distanced himself from the company and its legacy, taking a teaching position
at Rockefeller University. He currently lives in Austin, Texas.
In 2022, Sackler and his son David attended a virtual hearing as part of Purdue’s ongoing bankruptcy proceedings, and were required to listen to a series of two dozen statements given by people whose lives had been personally a ected by the opioid crisis that the company started.
e legacy of the Sacklers has continued to be tainted; the family were longtime donors to a number of cultural institutions and universities, many of which have now scrubbed the Sackler name from various buildings and collections and begun to refuse new donations.
Net ix is delivering one of the best rom-coms we’ve seen in quite a while, and it’s premiering in less than a month. It stars e White Lotus season two fan favourite, Haley Lu Richardson, and Bohemian Rhapsody breakout Ben Hardy. e movie?
Love at First Sight [pictured], based on the critically acclaimed book e Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight, by Jennifer E. Smith. e lm may not have the most original title, but don’t let that deter you. e same goes for the premise, which is pretty simple in theory: Hadley (Richardson) and Oliver (Hardy) begin to fall in love on their ight from New York to London but accidentally lose each other at customs.
e odds of ever nding one another again seems impossible, but fate may have a
1. Informer Starring Nabhaan Rizwan, Jessica Raine and Paddy Considine, Informer is a tense thriller about a second-generation British Pakistani who is coerced into working as an informant for a counter-terrorism unit. Exploring themes around identity and family, the series feels like a forgotten gem from the BBC. One season, six episodes, its is streaming on Net ix and Amazon Prime.
2. Unforgotten
e most underrated drama on British TV, Unforgotten is head and shoulders above the neverending mass of crime dramas populating our screens. Nicola Walker and Sanjeev Bhaskar bring charm and natural chemistry as the lead detectives Cassie and Sunny, but it’s the smartly-plotted cold case mysteries that are this show’s trump card. Four seasons, with rst three on Net ix.
3. Bodyguard
Keeley Hawes played Home Secretary Julia Montague and Game of rones’ Richard Madden starred as her Personal Protection O cer, David Budd, in this enthralling and addictive thriller.
Each episode reveals further complexities in the pair’s professional and personal relationships as they nd themselves at the heart of a web of intrigue that involves the security services and the police as well as politicians and civil servants within Westminster itself. e explosive nale was watched by over 19 million viewers here and across the water and everyone has been desperately hoping for a second season ever since, Covid permitting. On Net ix
4. e Missing
way of intervening. Add in o -the-charts adorable chemistry between Richardson and Hardy, a smart screenplay by Katie Lovejoy (To All the Boys: Always and Forever), and London as a backdrop, and you have all the ingredients for success.
“ e script lifted my spirits,” director Vanessa Caswill tells Glamour. “It’s fun, it’s playful, it’s heartwarming. It felt like really good medicine.”
e Statistical Probability of Love at First Sight by Jennifer E. Smith, which was rst published in 2013 by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers. e New York Times called it “a gorgeous, heartwarming reminder of the power of fate.”.
e entire lm was shot on location in London from late 2020 to early 2021.
e Missing creators Harry and Jack Williams are masters of crime mysteries and e Missing is the duo’s nest hour.
Season 1’s story about a missing boy starring James Nesbitt as the desperate father is fantastic, however, it was season 2 that took the show to another level.
Starring David Morrissey, Keeley Hawes and Roger Allam, the mystery about a girl going missing in Germany is brilliantly crafted.
Tcheky Karyo’s standout performances in both series as French detective Julien Baptiste even earned him a 2019 spin-o , Baptiste, which is also available on Amazon Prime.
5. Marcella
Despite marriage woes, a tragic loss, memory blackouts and her struggles as a mum, a London detective, Anna Friel as Marcella Backland, excels at what she does best; catching killers. Streaming on Net ix with three seasons.
Michael O’Leary
Champion Linford Christie.
e World Athletics Championships takes centre stage this week in Budapest in Hungary, and the Hungarian Captial City bring back wonderful memories for Sonia O'Sullivan who won Double Gold in both e 5000 and 10,000 metres at e European Championships 25 years ago in 1998.
Unfortunately, Kilkenny City
Harriers Athlete Cliodhna Manning is not in Hungary this week, having had to pull out of the 4 x 400 metres squad after pulling up injured in the 400 metres at the recent National Championships in Santry.
Another Athlete who has wonderful memories of 1998 is Emily Maher from Hugginstown
who won Double Gold in both The 100 and 200 Metres at The World Youth Olympics in Moscow. Emily won her rst Gold in e 100 Metres in a time of 11.92 seconds, before doubling up in e 200 Metres in 24.17 seconds to complete a most memorable double. When she returned to Ireland, she enjoyed a most memorable homecoming with hundreds upon hundreds thronging Hugginstown to celebrate her wonderful acheivements.
Emily showed great promise at underage winning a host of National Titles, and she was coached by former Olympic and World
e Hugginstown native competed in The Sydney Olympics in 2000 and she was part of The 4 x 400 metre relay Team, and in the subsequent years she competed in European and World Championships.
A great highlight for her came in 2005 when she was part of The Ireland Team that won a Bronze Medal in the 4 x 100 metres Relay Team at The World University Games in Turkey. Also part of that Relay Team was Former World Indoor Champion and European Outdoor Medalist Derval O'Rourke.
Unfortunately for Emily, injuries plagued her throughout her career that restricted her potential and she never got to compete in another Olympics. However, Emily can look back on such a joyous occassion 25 years on with memories that will last a lifetime, and in which the people of Hugginstown will never forget. She put sprinting on the map in Ireland, and she was the rst to acheive Double Gold in a World Youth Olympics. Her success came as part of a Golden Period for Irish Athletics as Irish Sport Competitors had started enjoying success on e International stage.
A lot of the time we say we don’t have time to work on our health or our tness. I often try to give tactics and strategies to help with these things but sometimes we need our mind set and perspective altered. With that in mind I want you to imagine you’re 17 years old and your parents give you your rst car. ey also give you simple instructions. ere is one small hitch: You only get one car—you can never get another. Never. No trade-ins, no trade-ups. Nothing. Ask yourself, how would you maintain that car?
My guess is you would be meticulous. Frequent oil changes, proper fuel and maintenance.
Now imagine if your parents also told you none of the replacement parts for this car would ever work as well as the original parts. Not only that, the replacement parts would be expensive to install and cause you to have decreased
use of your car for the rest of the car’s useful life. In other words, the car would continue to run, but not at the same speed and with the e ciency you were used to.
Would we put a lot of time and e ort into maintenance if that were the case?
After reading the above example, ask yourself another question. Why is the human body di erent?
Why do we act as if we don’t care about the one body we were given? Same deal. You only get one body. No returns or trade-ins. Sure, we can replace parts, but it’s a lot of work and it hurts. Besides, the stu they put in never works as well as the original ‘factory’ parts. e replacement knee or hip doesn’t give the same feel and performance as the original. ink about it. One body. You determine the mileage? You set the maintenance plan? No refunds, no warranties, no do-overs?
How about this perspective?
One of my clients is a very successful businessman. He often is asked to speak to groups. One thing he tells every group is you’re going to spend time and money on your health.
e truth is the process can be a proactive one or a reactive
one. Money spent on your health can take the form of Sports Pilates to keep you injury free and healthy. It can be spent going to physiotherapists to make sure you keep yourself healthy and x your niggles before they become a problem. It can be spent working out and keeping t. Or it can be money spent on cardiologists, anesthesiologists and orthopedic surgeons replacing hips, knees or whatever else goes wrong. Either way, you will spend money. e same goes for time. You can go to the gym or to the doctor’s o ce. It’s up to you. Either way, you will spend time.
Some people say they hate to exercise. Try sitting in the emergency room for a few hours and then get back to me. Working out may not seem so bad. Much like a car, a little preventative maintenance can go a long way. However, in so many ways, the body is better than a car. With some hard work you can turn back the odometer on the body.
Do yourself a favor—spend some time on preventative maintenance, it beats the heck out of the alternative.
TUESDAY MORNING BRIDGE
Open Bridge every Tuesday morning during summer months at 10.30 a.m. Non-members welcome.
Results Tuesday August 8th
1st Prize – Mary O'Reilly & Margaret Mullins
2nd Prize – Christine Leonowicz & Anne Treacy
Results Tuesday August 15th
1st Prize – Phil O'Reilly & Mary Fitzpatrick
2nd Prize – Anna Collins & Mary Walsh
3rd Prize – Paul & Catherine Brady
WEDNESDAY EVENING BRIDGE
Open Bridge every Wednesday evening during summer months at 7.30 p.m. Non-members welcome.
Results Wednesday August 9th
1st Prize – Peter Ryan & Pat Hickey
2nd Prize – Michael O'Brien & Catherine Dore
3rd Prize – Eileen Brennan & Margaret Barron
Results Wednesday August 16th
1st Prize – Kathleen O'Shaughnessy & Kathleen Ferguson
2nd Prize – Ann O'Shaughnessy & Noreen Grogan
3rd Prize – Catherine Walsh & Betty O’Connor
CLARA
CLUB LOTTO
No Jackpot winner on 15th August, next jackpot is €4600. Numbers drawn were 6, 12 and 13. Luck dip winners, Caroline Cli ord, Marty Moseley, S and T C/O Connolly’s, Conor O’Shea, Phil Hogan - each get €30. Be in to win and thanks to all for your support.
Clara and Tullaroan braved Storm Betty on Friday evening in Urlingford and served up as decent a game as anyone could expect under appalling conditions.
Clara opened with the breeze and had a paltry six points on the board by hal ime. Chris Bolger, Martin O Connell and Lester Ryan had registered from play while Matt Kenny had struck two long range frees and Dara Glynn had added a 65. Tullaroan had 1-8 on the board by then, all but two points of it coming from play.
When Tullaroan added three early second half points a heavy defeat looked imminent but suddenly the scores dried up and Tullaroan started to find it di icult to cope with the Clara sweeper Shane Staunton. A goal by Dara Glynn a er he fielded a high ball sent in by Peter Nolan gave Clara some hope and when Dara repeated the trick three minutes later, this time driving the sliotar high into the top corner, the deficit was back to two and the game was back in the melting pot. Liam Ryan then added two points and Clara were back level with about seven minutes of normal time remaining. However they crucially hit a couple of their nine wides around this time also when taking the lead might have proved to be a huge psychological boost.
Tullaroan were far less wasteful and had only three wides in the entire game. Their county man Mossy Keoghan eased the pressure they were feeling by putting them back in front and Gearoid Dunne added a real peach from the sideline. These scores re-energised them and they finished stronger to prevail 1-16 to 2-8. Clara really missed the strong running of Paul Cody on a night that warranted ball carrying.
Team - Kevin Nolan, Conor Cody, Jack Langton, Paddy Ryan. Matt Kenny 0-2f, Shane Staunton, David Langton. Lester Ryan 0-1, Conor O Shea. John Murphy, Martin O Connell 0-1, Liam Ryan 0-2. Dara Glynn 2-1, 0-1 x 65, Joe Connolly, Chris Bolger 0–1. Subs used Peter Nolan, Sean O Shea, Harry Boyle.
CLUB LOTTO
There was no winner of club lotto August 15th. Numbers Drawn were 6, 7, 15, 23 Bonus 16. Play Now at www. oloughlingaels.com/lotto. Promotors draw. 1. Anthony Hanne. 2. David Goulding C/o Dan O’Driscoll. 3. Sean Hickey C/o Mary Deegan.4. Esther and Lorraine Maher. 5. Ollie Lennon C/o Aidan Fogarty. 6. Michael Dreeling C/o Padraig Leydon. 7. Siún Doyle C/o E Doyle. 8. Willie O’Neill C/o Online. 9. Brian Hogan C/o Online. 10. Regina Ryan C/o Online. Thank you for your continued support TEAM NEWS.
Well done to the senior hurlers, a good win for them a er a sticky encounter against Mullinavat. The going was so in Hugginstown and it was di icult for either team to build any momentum, but a 50th minute goal from Owen Wall got things moving for the Gaels and the city side finished out stronger. A five point win was well deserved on the day, and a two week break now will be welcomed by all players.
It was disappointment in the end for our intermediates who had a real opportunity to bag league points against Carrickshock on Sunday. Unfortunately a late rally by the winners nipped them at the finish. Good news for our intermediate Camogie Team who had a first round win away to Danesfort on Sunday. Great e ort by all, lovely hurling.
The best of luck to all O’Loughlin GaelsTeams for the coming week. All fixtures will be updated on the club’s social media regularly. Support Your Club
FAMILY RACE NIGHT
This is hugely important to help us complete our development goals. Our new floodlights are almost done and our next projects include wall ball and astro turf area, dressing rooms and ancillary facilities. It needs a massive push by members, players and supporters to get these jobs done and help drive our young Gaels to be the greatest. Get your tickets through juvenile players and mentors, adult players and club administrators before tonight and enjoy a great evening out.
JOHNSWELL ROAD HURLING
It’s back and it’s on September 2nd. It’s a brilliant a ernoon of family fun, healthy rivalries and all round
good craic. Get along, bring the kids and enjoy a great a ernoon.
LEAVING CERT
We wish all our members waiting on state examination results this week the very best of luck. Enjoy the celebrations with your family and friends and well done to you all.
B
Having completed their eleven match league programme, topping the league table, the clubs U-17 hurlers qualified to meet the runners up Dunnamaggin in MW Hire Dunmore Park on Monday evening, 14th August to decide the destination of the 2023 Minor hurling League title. A er Ed Lauho opened with a point in the 5th minute James Stephens began to dominate proceedings and when Bill McDermott finished to the Dunnamaggin net from a precision Zac Scanlon pass in the 10th minute the Village had built a 1-03 to 0-02 lead. A second Bill McDermott goal in the 16th minute gave James Stephens a 2-04 to 0-05 advantage and signaled an impressive run of scores totalling 1-07 which included an impressive goal strike on the run from Jacob Breslin. With that, the dye was cast for Dunnamaggin who could only respond with two points to leave the scoreboard reading 3-11 to 0-07 at hal ime. To their credit the Dunnamaggin lads fought bravely throughout the 2nd half and bagged two quality goals for their e orts but still the James Stephens forwards kept countering with a flow of points to keep safely in front and retain the league title with an impressive score of 3-22 to 2-11. Credit to Joe Murray and the management for their use of the full panel giving game time to players over the long league programme, but as they are well aware the championship is all that counts at the season’s end.
SENIOR HURLING
Despite dire weather conditions Friday evenings 3rd league/championship fixture between Bennettsbridge and James Stephens went ahead with the sizeable loyal supporters of both clubs treated to a robust contest with little opportunity for players to display their skills in dreadful playing conditions, no fault of the excellently prepared Danesfort grounds. Facing into the gale and sheets of rain throughout the first 30 minutes the James Stephens defence put up stern resistance against a hail of Bennettsbridge attacks with full backs Shane Donohoe, Luke Murphy and Adam O’Connor stoutly protecting netminder Gavin Costigan who was only called on once to smother a near certain ‘Bridge goal attempt in the early minutes of the game. The half back line of Niall Delaney, Niall Brassil and Diarmuid Cody and his replacement through injury, David Hennessy, were equally e ective in the tackle, depriving their opponents of many promising scoring opportunities.
The huge work rate of Cian Kenny who covered acres of ground in defence and in attack, with the help of midfielder Willie Spencer, contributed positively in keeping James Stephens within range at half time. From rare attacks the James Stephens scores came from Tadhg O’Dwyer who slipped a few tackles to score a point in the 3rd minute and a similar excellent score from Ross Whelan in the 22nd minute helped the city team’s cause. Within 7 minutes of the restart James Stephens, now benefiting from the stormy conditions had levelled the game at 0-07 each. Two excellent points on the run from team captain Luke Scanlon followed to push The Village into a 0-09 to 0-07 lead in the 9th minute and seemingly looking good for a positive result with 20 minutes le to play. However, stalemate followed for the next 7/8 minutes until Eoin Guilfoyle pointed from a free in the 16th minute but ‘The Bridge levelled again with a point in the 20th minute. Strangely, from there the James Stephens forwards lost their way somewhat, failing to win or hold possession, handing the initiative to their opponents and piling pressure on an already overworked Village defence. Again, Eoin Guilfoyle pointed from a placed ball in the 25th minute but the spirited ‘Bridge men knocked over a levelling point in the 31st minute for a share of the league points. Village players and mentors will be disappointed with the loss of two league points but in the circumstances a fair result, however it is surely questionable as to whether this fixture should have been played with realistic concerns for the health and safety of the players and loyal supporters following multiple advance warnings from Met Eireann of the pending arrival of Storm Betty with accompanying gale force winds and torrential rain.
On Saturday a ernoon in Pairc Sheamuis Stiophain the James Stephens senior camogie team made their debut
appearance in the 2023 senior league/championship campaign and followed up with a well-earned draw against an experienced Windgap team. Appropriately, county star Niamh Deely slotted over the crucial point in the 35th minute from a neat Sophie O’Dwyer pass to draw the game at 1-14 each in a high class fixture. In the opening half, Windgap playing with a strong wind advantage, exerted strong pressure on The Village girls but received strong resistance from a tight marking defence in which all three full backs, Cady Boyle, Emma Ga ney and Hannah Larkin excelled in front of a confident Tara Murphy in goal. A dominant display by Hannah Scott at wingback was backed up with equally impressive performances from Aoife Cantwell and Jenny Leahy. Emily Smith and Michelle Teehan worked tirelessly at midfield with support from Anna Doheny throughout a stamina draining fixture. A goal finish by Rachel Leahy in the 8th minute following a patient build up was a vital factor in minimising the point scoring threat from the Windgap girls. Points by Emma Manogue (13 min) and Michelle (19mins) brought the sides level at 0-05 to 1-02 before the Denise Gaule inspired Windgap team responded with three long range scores having failed to find a weakness in the Village backline. A well taken point by Caoimhe Moran in the 29th minute was countered by a similar score for Windgap to give the visitors a 0-09 to 1-03 lead at the break. On the turn over the roving Emma Manogue feeding o breaking balls tapped over two points inside 5 minutes to give a strong indication of a Village fight back, but the determined Windgap girls resisted with three unanswered points to marginally increase their grip on the game at 0-12 to 1-05. A further 3 points from Sophie O’Dwyer, and one each from Emma Manogue
(9mins) and Niamh Deely brought the sides level at 1-10 to 0-13 as the game entered the final 10 minutes. In the 21st minute Windgap scrambled a goal from a goalmouth melee, in which goalkeeper Tara Murphy was injured necessitating prolonged treatment. Fired up, the James Stephens girls launched a stream of attacks which forced fouls out of the hard pressed Windgap defenders and which sharpshooter Sophie O’Dwyer converted with ease to leave just a single score between the teams as the game entered added time. In a tension filled final few minutes Niamh Deely secured the welldeserved equalising point in the 35th minute for a share of the points in the club’s historic first senior camogie championship outing. Well done to all involved.
The August Bonus Ball number is 27 following the weekend’s national Lotto draw. The lucky winners were David Hennessy and David Mulcahy who will each collect a cheque for €500. Congratulations to both winners and again thanks to all who continue to support the fundraiser.
Fortunate with a pleasant run of Autumn weather the 200 plus aspiring James Stephens hurling and camogie players from 5 to 13 enjoyed a fun filled week of Gaelic games coaching in Pairc Sheamuis Stiophain under the supervision of GPO, Nathan Culleton and his team. On Tuesday the young stars togged out in their club and county colours received a surprise visit from renowned Kilkenny Kitman, Rackard Cody who brought along the Bob O’Kee e Cup for a photo session. Kilkenny and club star Cian Kenny made an appearance and no doubt passed on a few useful tips to the young camp participants.
LOTTO
Last week’s numbers were 5 :11 : 23 ; 25. There was no winner. Next week’s jackpot will be €7,200. The consolation winners were Killian McGlynn, Noreen O’Brien, Bronagh O’Hara, Donal O’Kee e and Tom Keane.
GOWRAN PITCH AND PUTT
Well done to prizewinners Tomàs,Conor Michael,Jack and Harry and to all who played in Bagenalstown in the CKW Regional Board U16 Strokeplay. Well done to host club Bagenalstown and the CKW Board for organising and running the event.
INTERMEDIATES SUFFER DEFEAT TO MOONOIN
Disappointment for The Young Irelands Intermediates who su ered a defeat 2-20 to 0-14 against Mooncoin in Ballyhale last Sunday. Mooncoin inflicted serious damage in the opening quarter as they led 2-6 to 0-2 at the midway point of the first-half, and they maintained that dominance a erwards. Young Irelands now have a two week break before resuming with their remaining League matches against St. Martins on 2nd September followed by their concluding Group game against Fenians on 9th September.
U-19S STORM THEIR WAY TO VICTORY AFTER EXTRA-TIME FOLLOWING EPIC BATTLE
On a beautiful summer evening in Gowran last Tuesday, The Young Irelands U-19s prevailed following an epic battle against a gallant Danesfort who fought it out right to the very end to win 3-29 to 2-25 a er extra-time. It was a momumental e ort by the Young Irelands contingent with every single one of their players involved playing their part at various stages, as they qualified for a Semi-Final showdown away to Tullogher-Rosbercon.
Jim Conlon’s first goal was a superb individual strike and that gave Young Irelands a 1-1 to 0-1 lead, but by the midway point of the first-half Danesfort replied to draw level. 1-2 to 0-5.
The Gowran lads outscored Danesfort 1-6 to 1-5 during the Second Quarter with Jim Conlon pouncing to score a Second goal.
They led 2-8 to 1-10 at half-time as Cian Phelan was on target with 0-5(0-3 frees). Danesfort replied and by the 40th minute they led 1-15 to 2-10, but Young Irelands enjoyed a glorious spell between the 40th and 50th minutes to lead 2-17 to 1-16 entering the final 10 minutes.
However, Danesfort displayed great fighting spirit and a goal narrowed the advantage to just the minimum (2-17 to 2-16) and buoyed on by that goal they took the lead with just a few minutes le . 2-19 to 2-18.
Time was running out in this absorbing thriller, but Young Irelands were awarded a free as they had a chance to rescue this contest. However, Paddy Langton stepped up to the mark superbly in the most pressurising of situations, as he superbly struck over a long distance free from midfield near the sideline for the equaliser. 2-19 each.
Killian Carey appeared to have given Young Irelands the winner as he pointed a free in stoppage time, but Danesfort responded with a levelling free to force extratime as it ended 2-20 each at the end of normal time. A Thomas Langton goal put Young Irelands on their way (3-21 to 2-21), while Paddy Langton pointed another free to stretch their advantage to 4 points, and they maintained that 4 point at half-time of extra-time (3-24 to 2-23) with Paddy and Ben Phelan adding further points. Danesfort pointed a free early in the Second period of extra-time, before Young Irelands took control to outscore Danesfort 0-5 to 0-1 for the remainder of the contest.
YOUNG IRELANDS: Tim Brennan, Charlie Brennan, Bobbie Brennan (0-1), Charlie Fitzgerald, Jake Byrne, Paddy Langton (0-7 0-4 frees 0-1’65), David Langton, Ben Phelan(0-3), Luke Phelan, Thomas Langton(1-2), Padraig Naddy (0-4), Jim Conlon (2-0), Michael Keating (0-1), Cian Phelan (0-8 0-5 frees), Diarmuid Langton(0-1).
SUBS: Killian Carey 0-2(frees), Kieran Timmins
JUNIORS AGONIZINGLY LOSE QUARTER-FINAL
There was heartbreak for The Young Irelands Junior A Team in Gowran, as they lost out by a solitary point (1-16 to 1-15) to Graigue-Ballycallan in a thrilling contest that came to life following a poor first-half. Graigue-Ballycallan led 1-6 to 0-7 at half-time with the goal coming three minutes at the end of First-Half injury time and it was hugely significant.
They led 1-10 to 0-10 before the Gowran Men replied with a brilliantly taken goal by substitute Daniel Manning in the 41st minute to level matters (1-10 each), before Dylan Carey pointed a free from an acute angle to regain the lead. 1-11 to 1-10.
The Teams were level at 1-12 each entering the final quarter, and Graigue-Ballycallan outscored Young Irelands 0-4 to 0-1 between the 45th and 55th minutes to build up a three point lead(1-16 to 1-13), before The Gowran Men fought tooth and nail to the finishing line but in vain. Jimmy Lennon pointed from long range in the 49th minute and he pointed in a similar manner in
the 55th minute to narrow the gap to two points (1-16 to 1-14), and Young Irelands dominated possession over the closing minutes in an attempt to retrieve the situation.
However, it wasn’t to be and having come so close to grabbing a goal at the expense of a ‘65 that was pointed by Paddy Langton, time ran out and Young Irelands Junior season ended with an agonizing solitary point defeat.
Young Irelands Team: Jason Brennan, Martin Carter, Emmet Byrne(Captain), Charlie Fitzgerald, Bobby Brennan, Paddy Langton(0-2 0-1 free 0-1’65), Sean Middleton, Jimmy Lennon(0-2), Ben Phelan(0-2), Sean Kehoe(0-1), Gavin Manning, Paddy Brennan, Conor Fizpatrick, Dylan Carey (0-8 0-5 frees), Diarmuid Langton, Subs: Daniel Manning (1-0), Kevin Quinlan.
SENIOR GIRLS BEGIN WITH NARROW WIN
Young Irelands Senior Camogie Girls began their League campaign with a hard fought 2-6 to 1-8 win against Barrow Rangers in Paulstown last Saturday.
The Gowran girls now play Tullaroan in Gowran next Sunday Morning at 11.30am, a er The Sash defeated the defending Senior Champions Thomastown 1-16 to 1-15 last Sunday Morning
YOUNG IRELANDS HEALTHY CLUB FAMILY FUN DAY
Young Irelands Healthy Club Family Fun Day takes place this coming Saturday 26th August in Young Irelands
GAA Grounds. There is lots of fun for the whole family including Face Painting, Music, Games, with a Fruit Stand and BBQ also. The action gets underway at 1.30pm with The Rounders competition starting from 2pm. Also, there is a Bucket Collection in Aid of Teac
Tom
DANNY AND TONY COMBINE TO WIN TRAMORE
OPENER
Danny and Tony Mullins combined to win the opening race of the Tramore Festival as Rotten Row ran out a 6.5 length winner of The Three Ireland Rated Novice Steeplechase at odds of 8/1. Rotten Row ran again in the featured race on Sunday where he ran a fine race under a big weight to finish 4th.
ART EXHIBITION
The Bennettsbridge 2023 collection mounted by the BB Art Group drew to a close on Sunday. All agreed it was the most successful of their exhibitions to date. A good number of sales were made and the visitor’s book bore evidence to the amount of visitors who came to view. The collection reflected the di erent styles of artists and the end result was a colourful display. Thanks to all who worked so hard to put it together. The artists are grateful to their many helpers including Margaret Nolan who was a great help in organising schedules in the hall. Special mention to our marvellous tutor, Julie Moorhouse for her continued support over the years. The artists are now looking forward to the future and hopefully a new collection in 2024.
SYMPATHY
Sympathy is extended to the family of Dr. Aileen Beirne, Castlecomer Road, Kilkenny, formerly of Croghan, Boyle, Co Roscommon. Some parishioners will remember Dr. Beirne who lived for some years on the Station Road in Bennettsbridge. She had many good friends and enjoyed the social life in the parish. Aileen died in her 96th year, a er a long, happy and healthy life in the loving care of her family and sta of Abbeyhaven Care and Nursing Home, Boyle, Co Roscommon.
Aileen will be missed deeply by her brothers Joe and Pat, sisters-in-law Maeve and Mary, nieces Laura, Angela, Sallyann, Karen, Nola and Anne and nephews David, John, Graham, Nick, Niall and Gary, and their respective partners. Also by her grand nieces and nephews Anna, Lilly, Ethel, Niamh, Ruth and Eva, Mathew, Jack and William, neighbours and friends.
Aileen is pre-deceased by her brothers Sean and Frank, sisters-in-law Betty and Ethel. Requiem Mass was celebrated in St John’s Church, Kilkenny on Sunday and a erwards removal took place to Lakeland’s Crematorium, Cavan
CHURCH NEWS
MASS TIMES
Weekday mass times. Wednesday 10.30am. Friday 10.30am. Weekend Masses. Tullaherin Saturday 8pm. Bennettsbridge Sunday 10.30am
LOTTO
Results 14/08/23. No winner of Jackpot. Numbers, 1, 11, 25, 28. Jackpot now €2,350.00.
Consolation Prizes. Camille c/o Aine Murphy, Suzie c/o Olive Morrin, Mary Cassin, Bishopslough, John Kinsella, Bal-lyreddin, Bronze/Belle c/o Olive Morrin.
CLUB HURLING
The senior hurlers fought out a 10 point each draw versus James Stephens in the third round of the St Canice’s Credit Union senior league. The weather in Danesfort was dire and both teams deserve credit for their endeavours in such conditions. Bennettsbridge led
by 4 points at half time a er playing with the elements. It didn’t look enough of a lead and indeed the village led by two points with 5 minutes le . However Bennettsbridge scored the last two points to get a deserved share of the points. Best of luck to our minors who play Barrow Rangers away in the championship first round next Monday.
FIELD DAY
Many thanks to all who attended this year’s field day in the GAA grounds last Sunday. It was well attended and huge thanks must go to all the volunteers who helped out on the day. Events included hurling and camogie games, Wheel of Fortune, Dog Show, Bric-a-Brac sale, Cake Sale and lots of other activities. Great credit must go to Andrea Kelly for putting in huge work in the organisation of the day.
SPLIT THE POT
The next draw takes place today at 6 pm at the clubhouse. The draw can be played online using club force. Please see the club Facebook page for details. Thanks again for the continued support.
CATHEDRAL DRAW
Money for the Cathedral Draw for August will be collected next weekend 26/27th. As this is the last draw of the current year, many thanks to all the parishioners who have supported the draw and who have been loyal supporters since the fund raising began.
BAPTISM
The faith community welcomes baby Estelle, daughter of Ailish Delaney and Michael Martin at her recent baptism in St. Kieran’s Church.
ST. ANNE’S CAMOGIE CLUB
A golf classic at Rathdowney GC on Saurdayt next August 26th. Team of four €120. First prize confined to GUI members, 2nd,3rd,4th and 5th prizes. Contact John on 0876119596.
ST. KIERAN’S HALL 500 CLUB DRAW
The first draw will take place on Saturday evening August 26th. Cost is €10 per month for 6 months with five prizes each month. The proceeds of this draw go to the upkeep and maintenance of the hall, which is currently undergoing essential upgrading. The hall is a vital asset in the community and it is hoped the draw will be well supported. Tickets can be got from Morrisseys and Sharkeys shops, Peter Norton, Michael Quinlan, Evelyn Sweeney, Kevin Murphy, Mary Garrett Mary Mc Cabe, Brendan O’Gorman, Marguerite Dermody and the Paddocks Vet. Clinic, or by Revolut to @ marytoqgs.
NIGHT CLASSES
The following classes are on o er at Colaiste Mhuire beginning September 25th. Autocad- computer aided design €90, Solid works- computer aided design €90, Art €70, Interior Design €70 and Patchwork €70. All classes from 7.30 to 9.30pm and for 6 weeks. No enrolment evening, contact info@colaistemhuirekk.ie or 0568831135 for queries/payment of fees.
SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO.
Winning numbers 14,20,23,27 two match threes Pippa Virgo and Mary Nolan.
EMERALDS URLINGFORD AND GRAINE LOTTO
August 14th prize fund was: €14,200. Jackpot: €12,200. Numbers drawn: 4, 15, 20, 26, bonus no 5. No winner and no match three winner. Five lucky dips of €20 each: Colm Kelleher, Sean Norton, Aiden Curran, Statia Broderick, James Leahy. Promoters prize: Post O ice.
MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE
Counselling Services: Low cost counselling services, includes one-to-one, family and teens, aged 12+. General Counselling: Bereavement, stress, anxiety and depression. Other counselling services available: Drug, substance and gambling addictions. Play therapy is now also available. Age 5+. Please contact Sue for more information or to make an appointment. Defibrillator, Please note that there is a defibrillator located in the Mill Family Resource Centre if and when it may be required.
Senior Alert: If you need to apply for a Personal Alarm, please contact Sue or Josephine.
Appeal for Clothes Donations: Any clothes donations would be greatly appreciated in aid of our counselling services. Donations can be le into the Centre, please call before dropping o . Contact number for the Centre 056 8838466.
URLINGFORD FUNDING SUCCESS
Kilkenny Local Community Development Committee recently allocated a number of grants to the County. The Communities Support Fund is supported through the Department of Rural and Community Development’s Community Enhancement Programme. Cllr Michael McCarthy, a member of the LCDC, congratulated all involved for their voluntary community work. Successful local applications were: Mill Family Resource
Centre €4,635; Urlingford Town Development €1,000; Clomantagh Squash Club €12,000; Urlingford & Graine Community Alert €1,000; Urlingford Town Team €375.
SET DANCING
Has finished for the Summer months. Dancing will resume in October.
URLINGFORD ARMS SPLIT THE POT
This week’s winner of Split the Pot is Ann Marie Vallely, Thomastown who will receive €1,065. Congrats Ann Marie, on behalf of Urlingford Lawn Green Bowls!
Tickets €2 on sale in participating businesses in town or Revolut 086 269 0300 or 087 161 3426 with proceeds this week going to Urlingford Lawn Green Bowls. Thanks to everyone for their continued support.
GRAINE CARDS
Graine progressive 25 card game will resume on Wednesday, September 6th at 8.30pm in Graine hall, and every Wednesday night therea er. All are welcome.
KILKENNY MOTOR CLUB
Classic and Vintage Show and Family Fun day on Sunday, August 27th at St James’ Park (R95 AP92). Admission is €5.
Dog show; book stall; brick-a-brack and many more novelty events. Presentations for Best Car, Tractor and Motorbike. Free admission and complimentary refreshments for all classic and vintage vehicles. Music entertainment, great family day out. Details: www.kilkennymotorclub.com / 087 944 1900 (Eamonn).
URLINGFORD / GRAINE DEFIBRILLATOR GROUP
In case of emergency, call: 085 2726396.
URLINGFORD NEWS
Anyone wishing to submit news items, club events, announcements etc can do so by emailing urlingfordnotes@gmail.com. If you have any photos you wish to include, please forward them to the email address.
EUCHARISTIC ADORATION
Glengoole Wednesday 11am to 2pm, Gortnahoe
Thursday 11am to 1pm
DIOCESAN APPOINTMENTS
We welcome Archbishop Kieran O’Reilly’s appointment of Fr James Walton as our new Parish Priest of Gortnahoe Glengoole. A native of Cappagh, Ballingarry, we wish him every blessing and happiness as he takes up his new role this Saturday, 26th August.
VOCATIONS
2023 is the year for vocations to the priesthood. Leaflets are le in the church and anyone interested in having a chat or would like to find out more information, please contact Fr. Joe Walsh of the Thurles parish.
TUESDAY BRIDGE
Bridge is being played each Tuesday night in Gortnahoe Hall at 7.30pm. If you would like to join or find out more information please contact this number 089 4349106
GORTNAHOE BINGO
Bingo continues this Saturday night at 7.00pm with doors opening from 6.00pm and will continue each Saturday night at the same time. Over €2,660 in prize money on o er including a special €500 game. We look forward to the many visitors and family members home with their family, it will be a great nights entertainment for all.
SPLIT THE POT
Congratulations to last weekend’s winner, Michaela Phelan from Inchorourke, who won €406 in the Split the Pot draw. Envelopes are available at the usual outlets. Split the Pot for the month of August will be in support of the Gortnahoe Juvenile Club. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated.
SALLY KELLY RIP
The death has occurred of Sally Kelly (nee Long), Grange Castle, Grange, Barna, Thurles, Co. Tipperary, August 12th. 2023, suddenly but peacefully at St. Luke’s Hospital Kilkenny surrounded by her family. Predeceased by her parents Hugh and Josie, brother Eamon, and sisters Mary and baby Patricia. Deeply regretted by her heartbroken husband Jackie, loving family, Yvonne, John, Finbarr and Joanne, son-in-law Stephen, daughter-in-law Emma, grandchildren, brothers Jimmy-Joe, Tommy and Hugh, sisters Josephine, Noreen and Alice, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family and a wide circle of friends. Sally reposed at Doyle’s funeral home, Urlingford, last Tuesday evening. Removal took place last Wednesday morning to the Church of St. Oliver and St. Patrick, Glengoole for Requiem Mass. Interment took place afterwards in the adjoining cemetery.
CATHERINE GRACE RIP
The death has occurred of Catherine (Kitty) Grace, (née Bartley), 34 St. Mary’s Avenue, Urlingford, Co. Kilkenny, formerly Rathbeg, Gortnahoe, Co. Tipperary August 13th, peacefully at home surrounded by her loving family. Predeceased by her husband Sean, great grandson Mark, and her brothers and Sisters. Deeply regretted by her adoring family Joan, Michael, Margie, John-Joe and Veronica, sons-in-law Bryn, Andy and
Stephen, daughters-in-law Nancy and Jane, grandchildren Mark, Stephanie, Orla, William, Lisa, Michael, Tadgh, Grace, Andrew, Megan, Luke, Elizabeth and Shaun, great grandchildren, sister Nellie (McEnery), brother-in-law Joe Bergin, sisters-in-law Teresa and Maureen Bartley, extended family, neighbours and a close circle of friends. Catherine reposed at her residence last Tuesday. Removal took place last Wednesday morning to the Church of the Assumption, Urlingford, for Requiem Mass. Interment took place in the Mill Cemetery.
ST. PATRICK GAA
The junior side travelled to Mullinavat on Wednesday evening in the quarterfinal of the championship it was a high scoring game with both teams on 4-19 a er extra time. The match went to penalties and St Patrick’s came out on top. They will next face Dicksboro in the semi final. The Junior side were in action against Kilmacow on Sunday they started well early and the match ended on a scoreline of 1-23 to 0-15. They will next face Tullogher on Sunday.
CABARET
This Sunday August 27th Ballyragget/Ballyouskill
Lourdes Invalid Fund is having a Cabaret in the Wheel Inn Pub, Ballyouskill. Music by Wicklow Man, costing 6€ a ticket. Tickets are on sale from any of the Committee members or usual outlets. Your support of this local charity would be greatly appreciate.
The intermediate hurlers su ered late heartbreak when they were narrowly defeated by Lisdowney in their latest game of the Michael Lyng Motors Intermediate League in Ballyragget on Friday night last. It looked like Conahy were heading for a first league win until a late Lisdowney goal and point gave them a 2-11 to 1-12 win.
The Fenians (Johnstown) are Conahy’s next opponents in the league on Friday week, September 1st at 7.00 p.m. in Urlingford.
The senior camogie girls made the ideal start to the campaign in the Michael Lyng Motors Senior League/ Championship when they defeated St. Brigid’s in Tom Ryall Park on Saturday evening last. It was a tough game all through with some big tackles from both sides. The key score of the game came in the first half when Emma Mulhall scored a fine goal for Conahy. The home side still led by 0-9 to 1-4 at the break, but Conahy were well on top in the second half, with Emma Mulhall and Ellen Gunner scoring some great points. It was a nerve wracking finish, but Conahy held on for a 1-12 to 0-13 victory. They will now face Windgap in their next outing on this Saturday a ernoon at 2.00 p.m. in Windgap.
TEAM: Ruth Phelan, Ciara Brennan, Orlaith Walsh, Amy Morrissey, Shannon Feehan, Roisín Phelan, Meadbh Walsh, Katie Brennan, Katie Brennan, Aisling Maher, Ellen Gunner, Emily Murphy, Amy Brennan, Emma Mulhall, Sofia Kerr. Subs.: Molly O’Dornan, Caoimhe Hennessy.
DEVELOPMENT FUNDRAISER
Conahy Shamrocks GAA Club have launched a major development fundraiser, and are seeking the support of everyone in the community to ensure its success. The club are aiming to undertake a significant upgrade to the facilities in the Polo Grounds, which will initially see the increase of parking facilities, an extra entrance/ exit point to ensure safe access to the grounds, and the provision of an astroturf playing pitch and ball wall. This will come at a significant cost, and while the club are seeking National Lottery funding to assist with this, it must also fundraise a large portion of the cost. The fundraiser will involve a ticket draw, with the winner receiving a new Hyundai Tucson car or €35,000 in cash. Tickets for the draw will be €25 each, or three for €65, or five for €100. The club is appealing in particular to all GAA club members, parents of children involved in Bórd na nÓg activities and parents/player members of Conahy Camogie club to assist as much as possible with this fundraising draw, either in buying or selling as many tickets as possible. Tickets have and will continue to be given to club members to sell amongst their friends and relations. A website that will allow the purchase of tickets for the draw will be live in the coming weeks, and the draw will also actively be promoted on social media platforms. All support would be greatly appreciated for what will be a development to benefit both young and old in the community.
CLUB LOTTO
The numbers drawn in the Conahy Shamrocks GAA Club Lotto were 11, 18 and 31. There was no jackpot winner so the consolation prize winners were Mary Flynn, Ann Burke, Ann Conroy, Rita Bergin and Padraic Hally. The promoters’ prize winners were Margaret Buggy, Peter Mulhall and Seamus Óg Brennan. This week’s jackpot now increases to €4,700.
The ABBA tribute band “Abbaesque” will play in Conahy Shamrocks GAA Club House on Saturday, October 6th, not September 30th as previously advertised. Details on tickets, etc., will be publicised in the coming days.
MASS TIMES
Aghaviller Parish, Hugginstown: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 9.30a.m. VigilSaturday 26th. at 8.00p.m. Sunday 27th. at 10.00a.m. Stoneyford: Wednesday 23rd. at 7.00p.m. VigilSaturday 26th. at 6.30p.m
Anniversary Mass. Joseph and Philip Murphy: Mass in Stoneyford Church on Saturday 26th. at 6.30p.m. Ned and Stasia Power, Mass in Hugginstown Church on Saturday 26th. at 8.00p.m.
FIRST ANNIVERSARY MASS
Bishop Niall Coll will celebrate the First Anniversary Mass for Bishop Seamus Freeman on this Sunday 20th August in St Mary’s Cathedral at 5.30 p.m.
ROTA
Rota for next week-end, 26th/27th August. (Twenty- First Sunday of Ordinary Time)
Readers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Tony Roche. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m John Barron. Sunday 10.00a.m. Noreen Kenneally. Eucharistic Ministers, Stoneyford, Saturday 6.30p.m. Kitty Wallace. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Mary Cahill. Sunday 10.00a.m. Kay Power.
LOTTO
Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. Draw: Monday 14th. August 2023 Numbers: 23; 30;
10; 14. No Winner First 3 Numbers Drawn. No Jackpot Winner. €30.00. Winners: Éabha Carroll, Harristown, Michael Irish, Hugginstown, Katie Grace, Stoneyford; Matty O’Shea, Boolyglass, Robert Finnegan, Stoneyford. 3 x €15.00 (Sellers): Teresa Fitzgerald, Breda O’Meara, Peter Hoyne.
The Aghaviller/Carrickshock G. A.A. Lotto Committee wish to advise all our patrons, that from Monday 4th. September the cost of a Lotto Ticket will rise to €2.00. We thank all for their ongoing support of this essential Parish and Club fundraiser.
STONEYFORD TEXT ALERT A.G.M
Stoneyford Text Alert group will hold their A.G.M. in Stoneyford Community Centre on Wednesday 6th September at 8.00p.m. and everyone is invited to attend. New members can join on the night. The subscription for the year is €10.00 per mobile phone number.
THE POOR CLARES
The Poor Clares, Galway are hosting a Monastic Experience Day on Saturday 26th. August from 10.00a.m. to 5.00p.m. The Day is designed to help young women who are exploring the possibility of a religious vocation to find out more about the Poor Clare way of life. If you would like to attend the day you can book a place at vocations@poorclares.ie
SOUTH KILKENNY HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Heritage Week 2023 Event: A Mystery Tour of Mooncoin will take place on this Sunday August 20th. Starting point and time: Main gate Parish Church Mooncoin, at 2.30p.m. All are very welcome.
AFTER SCHOOL CARE
A er School Care Program will begin in Newmarket School in September. The person in charge has years of experience as a childminder and is looking forward to working with the children in the school. For further information please contact: Phone: 056 776 8919
SAFEGUARDING CONTACTS
Diocesan Designated Liaison Person: Ms. Kathleen Sherry Tel: 087 100 0232. Aghaviller Parish Representatives are: Teresa Broderick and Carmel O’Toole.
STONEYFORD SCHOOL
S N Chiaráin Naofa are currently recruiting for 2 x School Transport Escorts for our ASD Class Students. The bus escort will accompany and support pupils with Autism on a mini bus from their home to and from school. The bus escort must be available in the mornings and a ernoons, five days per week for the school year. The bus escort is responsible for the safety of the children on board the bus/taxi and will be required to provide pupil care needs including, but not limited to, assisting the children getting on and o the bus/taxi, securing appropriate seat belts, etc. No o icial qualifications are needed, however, good communication skills and experience of caring for/working with children with additional needs is desirable. The post is approximately 20 hours per week. The bus escort should be available daily, in the mornings from 7.00a.m. to 9.00a.m and in the a ernoons from 1:30p.m. to 3:30p.m. The bus escort will meet the bus driver each morning and a ernoon at Stoneyford School. Appointment is subject to Garda Vetting requirements, occupational health check and verification of references. For further details contact mkieran@stoneyfordns.ie
BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE
Erins Own 0-10
Glenmore 1-17
Glenmore made it 3 from 3 with a comprehensive victory over Erins Own in absolutely horrendous conditions at St John’s Park last Friday night. Storm Betty arrived and to many Gaels surprise, xtures were given the go-ahead after early evening pitch inspections. Hurling 1, Storm Betty 0. Credit to all sides who gave their all on Friday evening – it was certainly very testing for all players and o cials.
e men from Castlecomer got the scoreboard moving with a lovely e ort from play by dangerman Jack Buggy from just inside the Glenmore ‘65. e league leaders were level in the 3rd minute when a well-worked sideline cut from Dean Croke to Alan Murphy resulted in the County man striking over a lovely, curled e ort o his right side.
Cathal Beirne, who has looked very lively this season, then nudged his side in front when he broke away from his marker before sending over a nice e ort from out on the left side.
Dean Croke then won a good free after taking a lovely catch from a long Mikey Kirwan restart which gave Glenmore a free about 25 yards out to the right of the posts. Alan Murphy struck the placed ball hard and lower than usual, due to the elements and the umpire signaled a point, but in truth it looked like it took a touch on the way through and had gone behind for a ‘65. From the restart, Richie Hennessey broke the ball
down to Alan Murphy who played a measured pass in the direction of Ian Byrne. e Kilkenny Panelist diverted the pass to the supporting Ger Aylward who red over a wonderful score from tight to the right sideline, despite the conditions.
Eoin Murphy then ri ed over another cracking score from play, close to the right sideline to make it 0-5 to 0-1 with almost 10 minutes played. ere was a brief lull in the scoring as conditions appeared to worsen, but Jack Buggy got a much-needed score for the ‘Comer side from the placed ball on seventeen minutes. Alan Murphy then collected a brace of frees with Jack Buggy responding for Sean Dempsey’s charges. e nal score of a testing rst half came from an Alan Murphy placed ball to leave the half-time scoreline, Erins Own 0-3, Glenmore 0-10.
When the second half got underway, the rst score came from Erins Own wing-back John
Dowd. The next two scores were shared by free takers, Alan Murphy and Jack Buggy. Two of Glenmore’s young stars, Cathal Beirne and Ian Byrne then tagged on points from play to cement Bob Aylward’s sides dominance at the home of O’Loughlin’s. ‘Comer sub Eoin Brennan then emerged from a ruck to swivel and take a pot shot which
split the posts. Eoin Murphy then slotted over a ‘21 free after referee Conor Everard played a good advantage initially but brought play for an earlier infringement. Jack Buggy then split the posts from play to try and breathe life into the ‘Comer challenge. Ger Aylward then saw his name go into the referee’s book
before 3 excellent points from play from Dean Croke and Cathal Beirne (2). Erins Own managed to hit two points on the bounce, but they really needed majors to try and set up a grandstand finish. Then came the only major of the game. A Long restart by Mikey Kirwan was superably caught by Alan Murphy who popped a pass
to Dean Croke who in turn found the on-running Ian Byrne. Byrne took another few strides before dispatching a great strike beyond Sean Buggy in the ‘Comer goal. Jack Buggy replied with a quality point from play, but it was too little too late as ref Conor Everard sounded the long whistle. Final score, Erins Own 0-10, Glenmore 1-17.
So, the first 3 rounds of the 2023 St. Canice’s Credit Union Senior Hurling League-Championship have been completed. What have we learned as we approach the business end of the Kilkenny club season?
Well, let’s start with Group A, and the current leaders Glenmore. Bob Aylward’s men have looked mightily impressive in their outings so far this season. With 3 wins on the bounce, the Pairc na Ratha based side have a perfect record, with victories recorded over Erins Own, James Stephens and big guns, Shamrocks Ballyhale. That’s not a bad record to have going into round four.
Their most recent win, last Friday’s victory over Erins Own, achieved in horrendous conditions at the home of O’Loughlin’s showed us that they can adapt to whatever is thrown at them. They hit a really decent total during storm Betty and showed plenty of grit, fight and determination in a game where the elements battering St Johns Park were a real leveler.
Glenmore have hit 4-55 during the first 3 rounds and have a scoring difference of +14. As usual, the ‘Murphy Clan’ has been driving everything forward for their club with Eoin, Alan and Shane, all very prominent in their sides desire to show that they are very much a senior club in the County. When you throw in Aylward’s Ger and Eoin, rising stars Cathal Beirne, Ian Byrne and Dean Croke, and you can begin to see how things are building nicely in the south of Kilkenny.
Three sides are locked on the 3-point marker, with James Stephens, Bennettsbridge and current champions Shamrocks Ballyhale all scrambling to remain on Glenmore’s tails. Tim Dooley’s charges are the only one of this trio that hasn’t faced Bob Aylward’s men as yet, but the other two sides will testify that the current leaders are a real threat.
Shamrocks got their first win of the campaign with a close victory over Graigue Ballycallen last weekend. Pat Hoban’s top trio of TJ, Eoin Cody and Adrian Mullen contributed all but 3 points of their sides 2-21 total. The Shamrocks are bidding for a 6th consecutive County title, and you get the feeling that with so many of last year’s panel missing, this trio of wonderful hurlers will need to keep producing the goods if they are to reach the pinnacle again.
Group games remaining against the ‘Bridge and The Village will tell us everything about this illustrious club’s chances this season. By the way, Hoban’s men are currently the top scorers in Group A.
Brian Cody’s Village outfit are ticking along somewhat under the radar. An opening round win over GBC was followed up by a 1-point defeat to Glenmore in a hugely entertaining encounter in Thomastown, while storm Betty was the winner when James Stephens clashed with Bennettsbridge in Danesfort last weekend. The men from Castlecomer and Shamrocks Ballyhale await.
Tim Dooley’s Bennettsbridge side are the joint lowest scorers in Group A, along with Erins Own and will know that an indifferent start so far will be tested with matches against Shamrocks and Glenmore remaining.
In Group B, it’s Dicksboro that are setting the pace at the break. Like Glenmore, Michael Walsh’s charges have a perfect record after 3 rounds of games having secured wins over Clara O’Loughlin’s and last time out, an emphatic win over Willie Coogan’s Danesfort. The men from Palmerstown have been very consistent so far and look to be harnessing underage success and blending this into the senior ranks. Boro’s final group game, a clash with Tullaroan scheduled for Ballyragget is sure to be an exciting encounter. The men in maroon are the top scorers at senior level this season. Make no mistake, Dicksboro are determined to have a big say in where the Tom Walsh Cup ends up.
Talking of Tullaroan, Ken Coogan’s charges have also been in decent form so far this campaign. They recovered from an opening round defeat to O’Loughlin’s with victories over Mullinavat and Clara. Their round 2 win over the Vegas Boys saw them hit an impressive 6-21 and they appear to have a strong spine through their team with Captain Paul Buggy between the sticks, Tommy & Padraig Walsh, Mossy Keoghan and Shane Walsh providing a strong core to this Sash side and will look at keep entertaining in their next two outings.
Brian Hogan will be expecting his O’Loughlin’s side to finish the group strongly, with upcoming games against Clara and Danesfort. Having begun with a comprehensive win over The Sash, they came up short in the city derby, going down by 3 points to Michael Walsh’s ‘Boro side. Hogan will look to his leaders, Mikey Butler, Paddy Deegan and Huw Lawlor to drive them on, knowing that the likes of Mark Bergin, Eoin O’Shea and the emerging duo of David Fogarty and Jordan Molloy are all capable of excelling.
I, Clare Sealey intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Retention Planning Permission to retain existing garage and all associated site development works at Huntstown, Tullaroan, Co. Kilkenny, R95 V067.
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.
I Aidan Kelly Agricultural Design & Planning Services (085 7466211, www.adps.ie) intends to apply to Kilkenny County Council on behalf of my clients Deirdre and Ger Dalton. Permission for Construct slatted loose shed with underground effluent tank and manure area and all associated site works at MountLoftus, Goresbridge, Co. Kilkenny.
The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9.00 a.m. - 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. - 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application.
O Holy St. Anthony gentlest of Saints, your love for God and charity for His creatures, made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers. Encouraged by this thought, I implore you to obtain for me (request).
O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms. The gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. Amen M.M.
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.R.
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. P.ON.
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. P.ON.
Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours. This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).
Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.
Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never been known to fail. Must promise publication of prayer. C.B.
Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours.
This time I ask you this special one (mention favour).
Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen.
Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never been known to fail.
Must promise publication of prayer. M.D.
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.
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.
