Kilkenny Observer 25th February 2022

EVERY FRIDAY

The Kilkenny

Observer FREE EDITION

Friday 25 February 2022

Oh, Dear, Dear...

How the new normal is costing us dearly  Paul Hopkins, page 8

Tel: 056 777 1463 E: sales@kilkennyobserver.ie W: kilkennyobserver.ie

In The Shadows How women in fear need to be on guard  Marianne Heron, page 12

Wednesday 16th March Abbeyfolk 8pm

Thursday 17th March

Cleere’s listing Wed 16th March

The BonnyMen 8.30pm €15

Friday 18th March Seo Linn 8.30pm €15

Sunday 20th March Inni-k 8.00pm €15

All tickets @cleeres.com

THE KILFORD ARMS HOTEL JOHN STREET, KILKENNY T: 056-7761018 F: 056-7761128 E: INFO@KILFORDARMS.IE

Trad Sessions with Anthony Mc Auley & Friends 6pm The Raglan Rogues 8pm Thomas Jackman 9pm Roisin Dubh 10pm

Friday 18th March

Trad Sessions with Anthony McAuley & Friends 6pm The Raglan Rogues 8pm Accousticats 10pm

Saturday 19th March

Trad Sessions with Anthony Mc Auley & Friends 6pm The Raglan Rogues & Guests 8pm Roisin Dubh 10pm

Sunday 20th March

Trad Sessions with Anthony McAuley & Friends 6pm Generation 5 6.30pm Thomas Jackman 10pm

Ryan’s Bar 3 Friary St, Kilkenny

Beer Garden Now Open 056 776 2281

St Patrick’s Festival Gig Guide

The Kilford Arms Hotel, City Centre NO.1 for Food, Drink, Accommodation & Entertainment in Kilkenny

• Thursday 17th March - Michael Walsh The Kilford has got it all and • Saturday 19th March - Michael Kavanagh then some more ‘Enjoy’ • Sunday 20th March - John Travers

WED 16TH MARCH TRAD/FOLK Oisin Mac Cinnéide & Friends 6pm -8pm BLUES/ COUNTRY Back Door Blues 10pm

FRI 18TH MARCH TRAD/FOLK Whiskers of Lichen 6pm -8pm ROCK N ROLL Groove Republic 10pm

THU 17TH MARCH TRAD/FOLK Whiskers of Lichen 4pm - 6pm ROCK N ROLL Banjaxed 10pm

SAT 19TH TRAD/FOLK Whiskers of Lichen 6pm-8pm BLUES/COUNTRY/SOUL The Ben Reel Band 10pm

SUN 20TH ROCK N ROLL Oracle Villa From 8pm

The Home of Great Music

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 25 February 2022

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 25 February 2022

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EVERY FRIDAY

The Kilkenny

Observer

Carey probe goes on FURTHER investigations into a number of alleged fraud incidents relating to the activities of an asset management company, allegedly owned by Kilkenny woman Caitriona Carey, are being carried out by Gardai.

The former Irish hockey international and Kilkenny camogie player was the subject of a RTE PrimeTime Investigates programme which included interviews with

a number of people who claimed to have paid over large sums of money to her company Careysfort Assets Estates.

It is alleged that Ms Carey promised to help people save their homes after their mortgages became distressed by offering to buy debt from their lenders at a discounted rate.

People were asked to pay upfront deposits to take part in the scheme.

RTE Investigates interviewed a number of people who say that the businesswoman conned them out of thousands of euro.

Ms Carey has a conviction under the Theft and Fraud Offences Act dating from February 2020, for the theft of €6,948 and for forging a cheque from a Kilkenny hairdresser who had hired her as his accountant.

The Garda National Bureau

is now involved in the investigation.

Within two years, around €400,000 from clients of Careysfort Asset Estates was paid into the company account and, as of last month, just €488.10 remained, with nothing left to repay any of those who gave deposits to Ms Carey’s firm.

The biggest spend using funds from the company account came on July 21, 2020,

when money from the account was used to buy a BMW at a cost of €55,226.

Money in the account was used to fund a lavish lifestyle, including Swiss ski holidays, a trip to Florida and multiple spending sprees at high-end boutiques and outlets.

At least 15 people have complained about Carey to Gardaí after they handed over large sums of money to her company.

Byrne steps down

He’s off to NYC! Kilkenny County Council Leas-Cathaoirleach Michael McCarthy will be travelling to New York City for St Patrick’s Day at the invitation of the Kilkenny Association.

Cathaoirleach, Fine Gael Councillor Fidelis Doherty has opted not to travel for personal reasons.

Care Leaver activists Shannon Joyce and Nicole Wynne with Minister for Children Roderic O’Gorman at the launch of Tusla National Fostering Week 2022.

The aim of National Fostering Week is to raise awareness of fostering and recruit new carers across Ireland

Internet slowdown The rollout of high-speed broadband to 679 rural primary schools, including Kilkenny, will now not be completed until the middle of next year.

Full story, Page 22 PHOTO: Marc O’Sullivan

Poverty the new normal One in four women violated

EVERY FRIDAY

Almost all remaining Covid health restrictions from Monday, February 28. Mask wearing in schools, in retail settings and on public transport will be voluntary, but they will still be required in health care.

Covid Upate, Page 14

Kilkenny County Council Chief Executive Colette Byrne has announced that she will not seek to renew her contract with the local authority and will be stepping down from her role at the end of her current term.

Loving homes needed

ONE quarter of families in Ireland are worried about not being able to provide food for their children, with more than half of parents reducing their spending on other essential items and leisure activities.

New research shows how food poverty has become a major concern for Irish parents who have admitted feeling stressed, guilty and embarrassed as they struggle with rising costs.

A survey of 1,130 adults showed that 51% of parents have cut back on spending in other areas including gas, electric-

The masks are off!

ity, loan repayments and medical bills so they can afford to buy food. This rose to nearly two-thirds (62%) among those not working, including homemakers.

A total of 36%) of parents reduced spending on clothing, 26% on household bills and 17% cut back on medical appointments or supplies.

The research — by Amárach on behalf of Barnardos and Aldi Ireland — gives an insight into how the pandemic and cost of living is impacting families.

Comment: Paul Hopkins, Page 8

The Kilkenny

Observer UNIT 7, FRIARY STREET, KILKENNY, R95 VHY7

MORE than one in four women in the world have experienced domestic violence in their lifetimes, according to a study.

The study, in The Lancet medical journal, used statistics from the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) global database on the prevalence of violence against women from before the coronavirus pandemic, 2000 to 2018.

It found that 27% of those women who are aged 15 to 49 had experi-

enced physical or sexual violence by intimate and long-term partners.

Claudia Garcia-Moreno, a WHO researcher, said: “The numbers are alarming and the pandemic exacerbated issues leading to intimate partner violence such as isolation, depression and anxiety, and alcohol use, as well as reducing access to support services.”

Opinion: Marianne Heron, Page 12

INSIDE

Paul Hopkins............... P8 Marianne Heron.......P12 John Ellis ...................P16 Health & Science......P18 Travel & Leisure.......P19 Gerry Cody .............24-26 Food & Drink ............P32 TV & Streaming .......P33 Picture Special .... P34-35 Sport ...................... P44-48

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GETTING IN TOUCH WITH THE TEAM

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Feed the birds... and help your garden GARDENING enthusiasts and vegetable growers in Kilkenny are being encouraged to feed their local bird populations in the coming weeks to ensure they are around in summer to play a vital role in pest control.

Bird expert Patrick Croke says that several common bird species are invaluable for eating the kinds of caterpillars, moths and larvae that can ruin a gardener’s year.

“For gardeners and farmers, birds are helpers, not pests – in fact, they play an important role in balancing the local ecosystem,” says the Technical Officer with Connecting To Nature, a new Irish company that specialises in all-year-round bird food as well as wild flower seed.

“When insect populations rise in summer time, birds swoop in like the cavalry and feast on them,” says Patrick.

“In fact according to the Smithsonian’s Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, birds reduce the pest insect population by almost 30% – and can significantly reduce the need for insecticide, which can be a good thing.

“But the birds won’t magically appear – making the effort to invite them in at this time of year will pay dividends in the summer,” he says.

“It’s also important to be sure we are feeding the birds the right food for the time of year that match the requirements of their lifecycle.

“As we move from winter

towards spring we need to start moving from the fatbased food we were feeding them in winter to one that is more protein-heavy,” says Mr Croke

“We will shortly be entering the mating season, and they will require good proteins to grow good feathers and eggs.

“Connecting to Nature’s Robin and Songbirds Seed

Mix, which contains mealworms and fruit, offers the perfect blend of the right nutrients that those birds need now as the mating season approaches.

“The robins and song birds in particular are vital to controlling the kinds of insects that can be found in many commonly grown vegetables and flowers,” he says.

Connecting To Nature is the brainchild of Julie Power, whose family has been in the seed business for six generations, and it aims to improve our feelings of wellness.

“The World Economic Forum has published research that the happiest Europeans are those who see the most bird species in their day-to-day life,” says Julie.

“Studies have shown that greater bird biodiversity can make people more joyful.

Feeding birds is a very good way of feeling closer to nature and bringing wildlife closer to you, and Ireland has a wonderful array of small wild birds that you can feed.

“You don’t have to be in the countryside to connect with nature, all you have to do is create an environment that consistently attracts birds and bees,” she says.

“After the experience of Covid lockdowns, we have a new awareness of the mental health benefits of connecting to nature, a renewed interest in our living world and improving our gardens for the benefit and love of wildlife,” Julie concludes.

The Wine Centre, Kilkenny has won Leinster off-licence of the year 2022!

THE National Off-Licence Association (NOffLA) has announced the winners of its annual Off-Licence of the Year Awards which is now in its twenty-sixth year – and The Wine Centre, Kilkenny has been crowned Leinster Off-Licence of the Year, 2022!

NOffLA was established in 1991, and represents independent specialist off-

licences across Ireland, with the sector representing close to 6,000 jobs. The Awards recognise and showcase the excellence of independent off-licences and highlight retailers that offer exceptional service to customers and demonstrate excellence in retail standards.

Judging for the Awards involves an examination

of over 100 aspects of each entrant’s business with the process being tweaked this year to align with the Government’s Covid-19 guidelines.

Dante, store manager was quick to praise the team at The Wine Centre ‘We are delighted to have won Leinster off-licence of the year!

We have a small, dedicated and extremely hard-working team here at The Wine Centre, and this award hopefully goes some way to recognising that.’

The Wine Centre first opened its doors on John Street in 1965 and has been renowned for their dedication to customer service and excellence in product selection ever since. They provide personalised, specialist advice and expertise to customers, whatever the budget.

One of the key differences between The Wine Centre and other off licences and supermarkets, is the depth of knowledge of its staff and an extensive collection of award winning brands from around the world covering wine, spirits and craft beer – as well as exclusive products you won’t find anywhere else that are available both in-store & online via their webstore at www.thewinecentre.ie

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We are each €47,233 in debt EVERY person in the country is in debt to the tune of €47,233 following the news that the State took on an additional €33 billion in debt over the two years of the pandemic, according to a new report from the Department of Finance.

The national debt stood at €237 billion at the end of last year.

This equates to €47,233 for

every person in the country and is described in the report as “one of the highest in the world”.

Speaking at the launch of the fifth Annual Report on Public Debt in Ireland 2021, the Minister for Finance Paschal Donohoe said he believes the public finances “can absorb the recent level shift in public borrowing.”

On the question of possible sanctions against Russia over the Ukraine saga, the Minister said this would be discussed at the Ecofin and Eurogroup meeting in Paris.

He said he was getting ‘feedback’ from companies in Ireland concerned over what form sanctions might take but he said: ‘We have an obligation to respond back propor-

tionately but the cause of this is the actions by Russia.’

On the national debt, the Minister said that “as the economic recovery gains traction, it will be necessary to slow down, and subsequently stop, adding to our public debt.”

The report shows how Ireland’s national debt rose from 95% of Gross National Income GNI just before the pandemic

Great line-up as Kilkenny finally goes live again!

THE Government have rejected former EU commissioner Phil Hogan’s suggestion that he has a case for redress over Golfgate.

The Taoiseach and Tánaiste — whom former mCarlow/Kilkenny TD Mr Hogan called on to ‘address’ the issues he has raised — poured cold water on Mr Hogan’s claim that he had been humiliated and treated like a criminal.

In an interview with the Irish Independent, Mr Hogan implied he had been targeted by a political and ‘media mob’ after he attended the infamous Oireachtas Golf Society event in Galway in 2020.

He has also now alleged he was asked to resign by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and indicated that he would likely seek compensation.

Asked in Berlin if he accepted Mr Hogan had been treated like a criminal, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said: “I don’t believe so.”

But he added: “He’s paid a very heavy price for the situation. He was a diligent and effective commissioner.

“There was a context — in terms of where the public were, in terms of adherence to the guidance, and the spirit of the Covid-19 guidance.”

The Taoiseach said he hadn’t read the interview with Mr Hogan. But he said: “It’s a matter between the Commission and Phil Hogan.”

Tánaiste Leo Varadkar said the Golfgate dinner should have been cancelled as soon as the Taoiseach announced a ‘rule of six’ to the nation some days previously.

“The whole thing is regrettable, not just for Mr Hogan, but for everybody involved.”

Mr Varadkar said he would have “sympathy” for anyone adversely affected by what happened, and refused to comment on possible action

by Mr Hogan against the European Commission over the loss of his job as trade commissioner.

“I assume he’ll get legal advice. And on top of that legal advice, he’ll make a decision as to whether he wants to take a case against the European Commission or not.”

E.coli pollutes drinking water Thousands of people across the country have been drinking water from rural supplies contaminated with E.coli, latest inspection results show.

Many more may also be at risk of illness as the supplies they use in workplaces, care settings, schools and holiday accommodation have not been regularly inspected.

In some cases, officials believe, supplies are not even formally registered and may

TO FILL

never be independently inspected.

Just under 3,000 people were served by those affected schemes.

E.coli can cause serious stomach problems with severe vomiting and diarrhoea that can be dangerous, especially for children, older people and the medically vulnerable.

Its presence in water sources is usually caused by animal faeces from farm livestock.

to 106% of GNI at the end of last year.

The report details how approximately €30 billion was spent on supports during the pandemic.

This broke down as €4.5 billion in health, €2.6bn in business supports, €9.8bn in income support and €9.1bn in labour market, with €4bn defined as ‘other’ spending.

Ireland’s expenditure on pandemic-related supports was approximately four times’ the EU average as a percentage of national income.

However, as the economy continued to grow strongly, in the past two years, debt as a percentage of GNI* rose by 12% compared to a euro area average of 15%, accroding to the report.

Golfgate: Hogan’s case for redress is rejected by the Taoiseach

THE Government have rejected former EU commissioner Phil Hogan’s suggestion that he has a case for redress over Golfgate.

The Taoiseach and Tánaiste — whom former mCarlow/Kilkenny TD Mr Hogan called on to ‘address’ the issues he has raised — poured cold water on Mr Hogan’s claim that he had been humiliated and treated like a criminal.

In an interview with the Irish Independent, Mr Hogan implied he had been targeted by a political and ‘media mob’ after

he attended the infamous Oireachtas Golf Society event in Galway in 2020.

He has also now alleged he was asked to resign by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and indicated that he would likely seek compensation.

Asked in Berlin if he accepted Mr Hogan had been treated like a criminal, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said: “I don’t believe so.”

But he added: “He’s paid a very heavy price for the situation. He was a diligent and effective commissioner.

“There was a context — in terms of where the public were, in terms of adherence to the guidance, and the spirit of the Covid-19 guidance.”

The Taoiseach said he hadn’t read the interview with Mr Hogan. But he said: “It’s a matter between the Commission and Phil Hogan.”

Tánaiste Leo Varadkar said the Golfgate dinner should have been cancelled as soon as the Taoiseach announced a ‘rule of six’ to the nation some days previously.

“The whole thing is re-

grettable, not just for Mr Hogan, but for everybody involved.”

Mr Varadkar said he would have “sympathy” for anyone adversely affected by what happened, and refused to comment on possible action by Mr Hogan against the European Commission over the loss of his job as trade commissioner.

“I assume he’ll get legal advice. And on top of that legal advice, he’ll make a decision as to whether he wants to take a case against the European Commission or not.”

We all spent €357 shopping on the internet!

SHOPPERS on Irish websites spent on average 40% more last year than in 2020 as the total value of purchases rose to €503 from €357 for each person, according to Paypal’s Retail Trends & Spends Study.

The spend on websites within Ireland was also more than the €329 spent buying goods on international sites, accord-

ing to the survey of over 1,000 consumers.

Female respondents spent “considerably more” on Irish websites, with an estimated annual spend of €534, compared with €351 spent by male shoppers, the study found.

In terms of geography, Wicklow consumers spent the most with websites in Ireland, with

an average of €972 in purchases last year.

Carlow came in second place with a spend of €915, with Meath third, racking up €819 in spending.

People in Monaghan spent €773 while those in Offaly averaged €634, finishing off the top five counties in this regard.

While over three quarters

of consumers surveyed spent money on international websites last year, people from Carlow spent the most money on international sites, with an average of €678.

This was followed by Wicklow with €561 and then Offaly (€508), Longford (€450) and Kildare (€425) round out the top five.

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News Opinion

The Fact Of The Matter PAUL HOPKINS

How the new normal is costing us dearly Welcome to the New Normal.

That is the year of the rising prices. Electricity, gas, heating oil, petrol, diesel, secondhand cars, rents, flights, alcohol, childcare fees, health insurance, food and property prices are the big risers.

This year will be one of the most expensive in a long time as we struggle with these escalating prices. The Government’s attempts — the one-off €200 fuel payback, the temporary 20% drop in public transport tickets, school buses, a one-off increase in the welfare fuel allowance, the drug refund threshold and other bits and bobs — fall well short and are a mere ‘sticking-plaster’, as the Opposition has called the €500m. package. Mind, you, the Opposition has suggested nowt better.

Inflation, which has been upward since the last Budget, will hit the average household

for at least €2,000 this year.

Energy costs are rising by 29%, with home-heating oil up 52%; petrol and diesel prices up by a third in a year.

The Government spent some €35bn to nurse the health system and economy through two years of the pandemic: an additional €500m cost-ofliving package seems paltry by comparison. But, as the fella says, the money has to come from somewhere.

The European Commission says the hikes are to keep coming. Prices here are to rise by up to 5% this year, well above the EU average, and will stay high before falling back to 2.5% next year.

Statistically, middle-income families are being hardest hit.

These are the ones paying some of the dearest mortgages in Europe, or rents that have doubled in the past decade.

And they are being brought to their knees by some of the

most expensive, and rising, creche costs in the West.

According to a new poll on behalf of Vincent de Paul (SVP), the number of people struggling financially has doubled since before the pandemic, from 9% to 18% — one in six of us.

House-keeping costs are 78% above the European average, according to Eurostat.

Rural dwellers are feeling the financial pinch more than most as they heavily depend on their cars.

That 2.5% inflation figure for next year is a little too optimistic for we cannot predict where the Ukraine crisis will lead and the continued flow of Russian oil and, also, the course of the pandemic and the future of work, travel and the fate for commercial property demand and prices. Add into that murky mix Government charges, such as stamp

duty, carbon tax and VAT, and it all adds hundreds of euro more to the cost of living. It’s no wonder middle-income families feel the pressure, not to mention our educated young looking for a future here when escalating rents only serve to derail our promising graduates.

It’s hard to know the exact number of us now facing a tough time. The poor are easy to assess, the hard-hit not so. The Central Statistics Office (CSO) suggests the any one with a weekly income of €275.73 or less is living in poverty and say that 15.9% or roughly one in six of all workers is poor and one in 10 retirees likewise.

As of Christmas Day last there were 250,956 children on record as poor.

And another thing: politicians talking about our minimum hourly wage being among the highest in Europe

is utter nonsense unless addressed comparatively.

There is, however, some light further down the tunnel.

The Central Bank sees Covid spending falling to €6.8bn this year, with a small deficit by year end of just €3.8bn, or 1.5% of GDP, helped some-

‘The money has to come from somewhere...

”

what by a carry-over from last year’s unexpected strong tax performance. By 2023, the Central Bank sees a €3.5bn surplus instead.

As I said above, the €500m. cost of living package has had to come from somewhere.

Dare I suggest, our politicians, perhaps, have been looking at this ‘unspent money’ of 2023 and what they can do with it now. That said, €500m spent out of €3.5bn still leaves a great lot of cold currency that could aid this pandemic of the new poor much more than mere sticking-plaster.

Surely, our politicians’ — indeed our collective — imagination could do better to grapple with poverty and those in real need. Indeed, what happened to our Constitution cherishing every man, woman and child?

Maybe the economists know better. Maybe I am missing something here…

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€272,638 awarded in local development funding KILKENNY’S Local Community Development Committee has received an allocation of €272,638, with 30% of the funding ring-fenced for small grants of €1,000 or less and 70% for medium grants to a maximum of €5,000 and large grants to a maximum of €20,000.

The funding breakdown is: • A total of 14 small grants averaging €1,000 per grant • 31 medium grants averag-

ing €5,000, • 17 large grants were allocated to projects across the county totalling €272,638 The Communities Activities Fund is supported through Department of Rural and Community Development’s Community Enhancement Programme.

The Community Activities Fund (CAF) provides grants

to community groups to help with non-pay running costs such as utility bills, also necessary repairs and improvements to facilities, purchase equipment etc.

Some examples of the 62 projects supported in Kilkenny include: • Contribution towards utility bills, insurance costs etc • Purchase training equipment

• Additional lighting for outdoor recreational areas • Construction of an outdoor enclosed space at Bishop Birch Place • Redesign of refuge garden and playground at Amber Women’s Refuge Centre • Repair works at Windgap grotto • Upgrade works at SPA Development Community Hall Project.

The full list of projects supported is available on www. kilkennycoco.ie.

Following the allocation of the Grants, Declan Gibbons, LCDC Chairperson, said: “The CEP grant, both small and medium, has made significant impact for communities in providing crucial services, facilities, programmes and supports that they would otherwise not be able to provide.”

Last call for our schools to build a future for everyone SENIOR cycle students and schools have less than two weeks to one month to enter the CIF Build the Future – Schools Challenge,’ which can be entered via www.cif.ie/ cifchallenge. The deadline for entries is March 1.

The Construction Industry Federation (CIF) in association with Sherry FitzGerald has opened this competition, its second year, which is aimed at Transition Year students. The competition is a team-based project where students work together to design a residential housing development help address sustainability, climate change, solve the housing crisis and showcase innovation in construction.

The submitted designs will need to be eco-friendly, and affordable.

This competition is designed to address the growing skill shortage identified by CIF, from the Expert Group from the National Skills Council. Their recent report shows that there is an alarming shortage of skills within the construction sector.

For example, to achieve an annual average of 33,000 over the decade, housing completions would need to ramp up from the current annual output of approximately 20,000 in 2020, to 33,000 by 2025, before peaking at around 40,000 at the end of the decade.

This will require an additional 27,500 additional workers across all levels from architects,

plumbers, electricians to carpenters and joiners.

The winning team will present their designs at the Ireland Skills Live Event in the RDS. In addition, they will receive a day’s “Construction Experience” provided by Technical University Dublin and a TOPCON Complete construction package to include most up to date laser equipment and a half day instruction, as well as a prize for each of the team members.

The second team selected will also present their design at Ireland Skills Live Event in RDS in March 2022 and a TOPCON Construction package to include the latest equipment plus a half day’s instruction with individual prizes for each team member.

The third team selected will also present their design at Ireland Skills Live Event in RDS in March 2022 and receive TOPCON measuring equipment, along with a prize for each team member.

All entries and team members will receive a certificate of merit in recognition of their work.

This programme was developed by the CIF in collaboration with TUI, the Techno Teachers Association Ireland, the Engineering Technology Teachers Association and the Institute of Guidance Counsellors. This programme is designed to complement current teaching and career guidance principles.

When we are driven to scrap that old banger of ours...

A Red C poll conducted for Elves, the compliance scheme for End-of-Life Vehicles in Ireland (www.elves.ie) has revealed that the factor most important to a majority of motorists, when scrapping a car, is making sure they have legally

ended their responsibility for their old car, with 56% of motorists choosing this over taking the highest price offered.

Up to 30% of people have scrapped a car, 19% within the last 10 years, with 56% male and 44% female.

Remote hub the new buzzword as major investment announced THERE are now plans to open a further 200 remote working hubs across the country to compliment the now 200 remote stations across the country.

Speaking at a remote working hub in Drogheda, Co Louth Social Protection Heather Humphreys said the average cost of using the hubs was between €15-20 a day.

Workers can now book an office or desk space in their local hub through an app called ‘Connected Hubs’.

The Minister said the Government was looking at plans at subsidising hubs,

adding that this would be announced shortly.

She announced €5m. in funding which she said would be used to build capacity and improve existing remote facilities.

Ms Humphreys said that old and derelict buildings had been repurposed into hubs, including former banks, cinemas, Garda stations, convents and train stations.

She also said she was confident the target of 400 hubs would be met before 2025.

However, concerns had been raised about the cost of using remote hubs.

John Barry, who is a Member of ISME’s National Council, said some businesses would not be able to afford to pay between €20 and €30 a day.

He said: “Small employers will not be keen to take on that cost but the pressure will come on small employers I think that is a concern small companies will have if they are going to do hub working.”

CR Robotics, which designed a robot to help people living with dementia keep their independence, is one of many companies using the Mill Enterprise Hub

in Drogheda Co Louth.

Candace Lafleur, Managing Director CR Robotics explained why her company uses the facility.

“We had a huge office in Dundalk at first and that’s where we did all our development work and then once everyone had to work from home we did that quite happily.

“But honestly we all got tired of having so many robots running around our house so we needed somewhere that we could meet and we all kind of missed working together,” said Candace Lafleur.

Big journey on the road to electric cars A KEY environmental policy to have almost a million electric vehicles (EVs) on the road by 2030 will be a huge challenge unless the Government incentivises and supports dealing with the oldest polluting cars, while exponentially increasing the charging infrastructure nationwide.

That’s according to a new report a by Arup and economist Jim Power on reducing light fleet carbon emissions to achieve Government targets. The independent report which was commissioned for The Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) said that, in order to deal with this older legacy fleet, help would be re-

quired for those with the least economic capacity to make the biggest change.

This requireed more investment, not just at the top end of the market, to remain fair and equitable if Ireland is to provide all commuters with viable transport options.

According to the report, of equal importance was the urgent need to create a secondhand electric vehicle fleet.

The age profile of the national fleet has led to the continued use of older polluting vehicles.

Analysis within the report shows that removal of all these cars and replacing them with EVs would reduce carbon

emissions by 875,000 tonnes which is the equivalent of planting over 1.1 billion trees which would almost cover the entirety of Co Kilkenny.

While the Government was leading the way by currently requiring all their fleets to be replaced with electric vehicles, this could be expedited by requiring a turn over every two or three years. Ireland, which is a right-hand drive market, has a slower and smaller supply chain than most other European markets, with around 120,000 new car sales a year (pre-Covid-19) and an average car fleet age of nine years (2021).

With the majority of motor-

ists being used vehicle buyers there is currently three times as many used vehicles being sold as new vehicles, with an insignificant secondhand electric vehicle market.

The creation of this secondary market can only happen via a vibrant overall new car market.

The ambition to sell nearly a million electric vehicles by 2030 is extremely challenging.

Supply disruptions wrought

by Covid-19, Brexit and the global chip supply shortage, combined with potential rare mineral shortages keeping battery prices high, has further delayed the availability of electric vehicles.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 25 February 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 25 February 2022

Opinion

Primal scream: how can we keep ourselves safe?

AS I SEE IT MARIANNE HERON

Talking with a group of women friends last week our conversation turns to self- protection. The topic was triggered by the recent spate of horrific robberies of elderly people and violent attacks on women. It’s a really serious issue but protecting yourself in a way that isn’t either illegal, dangerous or just plain foolhardy turns out to be a head scratching subject.

A lot of the advice around is about prevention. Keeping a watchful eye on things through Neighbourhood Watch in urban areas and Community Alert in rural areas is one approach involving two-way communication between the community and the Gardai about suspicious or anti- social behaviour in the area. But suppose you are about to be robbed or attacked?

How about zapping the attacker or robber and incapacitating them?

While this may work in Nordic noir thrillers, defensive weapons like tasers, stun guns or even pepper sprays are illegal here in Ireland although there a plenty of

devices offered on line.

Googling local self-defence organisations later, I find pictures of wall-to-wall males in martial arts outfits and

can’t quite imagine flinging them onto an EVA foam mat.

More likely I will be flung.

Someone suggested using a really loud sound device

Liquid versus tablets CLAIR WHITTY

MANY of you can’t swallow large tablets or capsules and are always on the lookout for alternatives to them.

Floradix Liquid Iron is an iron supplement many of you are familiar with. It occurred to me that you might not know that there are other fantastic Floradix liquid supplements, so I thought this week I would tell you about some of them. I like these products because not only have they been around for years but they’re effective and contain natural ingredients.

For example, if you’re stressed think about Neurobalance this contains Ashwagandha.

A herb I talk a lot about too.

Ashwagandha is commonly

used for energy, stressful, and anxiety. Typical times would be around exams, house buying, stressful times like we have just been through, going back to work, or travel. These are all times that you might find the benefits of Ashwagandha. It’s combined with Lemon Balm and Rosemary, so you have an ideal mixture to help with stress and anxiety, helping you to feel good again. Some of you can’t swallow tablets so Neurobalance could be ideal for you.

Floradix Immune Support contains vitamin C, D, B12, B6, selenium, zinc and a herbal extract with echinacea for the normal function of the immune system. This is great mix of herbs, vitamins, and antioxidants all in one formula and is ideal if you don’t want to buy all of these separately. It’s easy to take and will get into

the system quickly.

Floradix Gallexier Aperitif and digestive aid is a really nice option to support digestion. It contains artichoke, dandelion, turmeric and other bitter herbs.

Bitter herbs help stimulate the digestive system which can reduce bloating and digestive discomfort.

Floradix Liquid Magnesium is a great option again for people who don’t like powder forms or large tablets. It can ease sore muscles, improve energy, help sleep problems, and reduce the symptoms of restless legs.

Some of the other products in the Floradix range include B Complex, Calcium, Saludynam which contains a lovely mix of calcium, magnesium, and zinc, an ideal choice for healthy bones and teeth. And Kindervital, which is a pleasant tasting multivitamin for kids.

Floradix use only the best available ingredients and are excellent quality. I think it is worth checking out the Floradix range of liquid supplements.

Why not call in to see at Market Cross Shopping Centre.

Phone: 056 7764538 Email: info@naturalhealthstore.ie Shop online at www.naturalhealthstore.ie

handy when worn as a deterrent, loud enough to discombobulate an attacker or alert people nearby.

Sirens may be effective and

all right to use so long as they emit safe sound. But sonic devices or powerful amplifiers capable to sending sound over long distances can cause hearing loss, others can cause nausea or discomfort and while you might want to inflict this on the assailant you don’t want to be affected yourself. Again, there are lots of devices advertised on the internet.

There were 21,265 burglaries here in 2016, many while homeowners were out but one guesstimate suggests that in around 15,000 cases people encountered the robbers.

There are a variety measures that could keep people safer from attack when at home like inexpensive, readily available door viewers, chain locks, door jammers.

Home and personal alarms are more costly deterrents and only effective so long as someone answers them promptly. But offensive weapons including sap (reinforced) gloves, Kusarigama and Ninja Shuriken ( Japanese ball and chain weapon and throwing star in case you wondered,)are out.

CCTV cameras are quite an effective deterrent and there are some relatively inexpensive types suitable for home use. One bright spark suggested putting up a notice saying “Smile you are on camera” to put off robbers.

Other ideas to prevent burglary that came up in the conversation ranged from dog deterrents, not necessarily a four-legged friend but alternatives like a Beware Of The Dog notice, a barking dog recording and even a large bone by the front door to indicate the presence of a hound.

Various subterfuges that come up in the discussion include: pretending to have an epileptic fit, threatening the rascals with a convincing toy gun, keeping a small sum of money hidden to give to thieves in the hope they will be satisfied.

One of the worrying things to emerge is the fact that several of us have been attacked or followed. There are local places where the women thought it wasn’t safe to walk alone, including a beauty spot where there have been attempted attacks.

Having public spaces with CCTN cameras and lighting would certainly help. Fingal County Councillors recently announced a move to consult with women in North County Dublin about ways to make public spaces safer. Let’s hope more councils follow suit.

My own suggestion in time of danger is to scream at the top of your lungs, primal maybe but it certainly scared off two hooded youths who were intent on robbing me.

Return to the office not all bad ANDREW MCDONALD HYPNOTHERAPIST

IN every negative, there is a positive. For many people the plus point of covid lockdown and restrictions was being able to work from home.

More time with families or for leisure activities, no need to endure the challenges of travelling. If that hasn’t already come to an abrupt end for everyone, the move back to the office isn’t far away now.

If you were one of those who got used to remote working, how do you feel about returning to the workplace? Excited to soon be mixing with colleagues again? Or anxious about having to dress up and leave the safety of your home?

The flexibility and freedom of working from your home will be hard to give up for many. The thought of losing them is bound to increase worrying.

That said, there have been reports of WFH (Working From Home) burnout, people feeling

under pressure to endure longer working hours and a difficulty in separating work and pleasure. All of that has a detrimental effect on mental health.

Returning to the office may, therefore, not be all bad!

As social creatures, humans crave contact with others. That is likely to be another plus point of returning to the workplace.

What should you do if you’re struggling with the anxiety of that return to normality though? The first thing experts suggest is to familiarise yourself with the health and safety policies in your workplace. These should cover important issues such as keeping workers safe during a pandemic and managing stress caused by work and the office environment.

Another important task is getting back into a routine. Facing into a long day at the office when you haven’t slept properly is particularly unpleasant.

Getting back into the rhythm of going to bed at a suitable time will help as will avoiding caffeine in the hours before putting your head down for

the night.

Believe it or not, physical exercise is great for reducing stress! Even walking for 15 minutes can make a big difference.

So can meditation. Just remember to be selfcompassionate and avoid overdoing it.

Even though it may be difficult if the return to the office is looming like a dark shadow, try to focus on the positives. Getting back to the workplace means meeting with colleagues again, some of whom may be your friends. Escaping from the house was in itself a goal for many during the most restrictive periods of lockdown! Talking is proven to be extremely effective in dealing with stress and seeing others again is an opportunity to do just this.

Always remember that if stress and anxiety become unbearable or stay with you for a longer period of time, you should ask your GP or another health professional for support. It isn’t weak to ask for help. In fact, admitting you’re struggling is the bravest thing you can do.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 25 February 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 25 February 2022

Covid Update

CONVINCING evidence that increased Vitamin D levels can help Covid-19 patients reduce the risk of serious illness or death, has been put together by scientists in Israel.

Researchers from Bar Ilan University and the Galilee Medical Centre say that the vitamin has such a strong impact on disease severity that they can predict how people would fare if infected based on nothing more than their ages and Vitamin D levels.

Lacking Vitamin D significantly increases danger levels, they concluded in newly peer-reviewed research published in the journal PLOS One. The study is based on research conducted during Israel’s first two waves of the virus, before vaccines were widely available, and doctors emphasised that vitamin supplements were not a substitute for vaccines, but rather a way to keep immunity levels from falling.

Vitamin D deficiency is endemic across the Middle East, including in Israel, where nearly four in five people are low on the vitamin, according to one study from 2011. By taking supplements before infection, though, the researchers in the new Israeli study found that patients could avoid the worst effects of the disease.

“We found it remarkable, and striking, to see the difference in the chances of becoming a severe patient when you are lacking in Vitamin D compared to when you’re not,” said Dr Amiel Dror, a Galilee Medical Centre physician and Bar Ilan researcher who was part of the team behind the study.

He noted that his study was conducted pre-Omicron, but said that the coronavirus doesn’t change fundamentally enough between variants to negate vitamin D effectiveness.

“What we’re seeing when vitamin D helps people with THE BA.2 virus — a subvariant of the Omicron coronavirus variant — isn’t just spreading faster than its distant cousin; it may also cause more severe disease and appears capable of thwarting some of the key weapons we have against Covid-19, new research suggests.

New lab experiments from Japan show that BA.2 may have features that make it as capable of causing serious illness as with older variants of Covid-19, including Delta.

And, like Omicron, it appears to largely escape the immunity created by vaccines. A booster shot restores protection, making illness after infection about 74% less likely.

BA.2 is also resistant to some treatments.

“It might be, from a human’s

Vitamin D has a big say in warding off Covid COVID infections is a result of its effectiveness in bolstering the immune systems to deal with viral pathogens that attack the respiratory system,” he told The Times of Israel.

“This is equally relevant for Omicron as it was for previous variants.”

Health authorities in Israel and several other countries have recommended Vitamin D supplements in response to the coronavirus pandemic, though data on its effectiveness has been sparse until now.

In June last year, researchers published preliminary findings showing that 26% of coronavirus patients died if they were Vitamin D deficient soon before hospitalisation, compared to 3% who had normal levels of Vitamin D. They also determined that

hospitalised patients who were Vitamin D deficient were 14 times more likely, on average, to end up in severe or critical condition than others.

While the scientific community recognised the importance of the results, questions arose as to whether recent health conditions among the patients might have been skewing the results.

The possibility was raised that patients could have been suffering from conditions that both reduce Vitamin D levels and increase vulnerability to serious illness from Covid-19, meaning the vitamin deficiency would be a symptom rather than a contributing factor in disease severity.

To rule out that possibility, Dror’s team delved deeper into the data, examining each

of its patients’ Vitamin D levels over the two-year stretch before coronavirus infection.

They found that the strong correlation between sufficient Vitamin D levels and ability to fight the coronavirus still held, and the level of increased danger in their preliminary findings remained almost identical.

“We checked a range of timeframes, and found that wherever you look over the two years before infection, the correlation between Vitamin D and disease severity is extremely strong,” Dror said.

“Because this study gets such a good picture of patients’ Vitamin D levels, by looking at a wide timeframe instead of just the time around hospitalisation, it offers much stronger support than anything seen so far

emphasising the importance of boosting vitamin D levels during the pandemic,” he said.

A flood of dubious claims about natural remedies to

distinct from the most recent pandemic virus as the Alpha, Beta, Gamma and Delta variants were from each other.

Kei Sato, a researcher at the University of Tokyo who conducted the study, argues that

these findings prove that BA.2 should not be considered a type of Omicron and that it needs to be more closely monitored. “Establishing a method to detect BA.2 specifically would be the first thing”

‘Remarkable, and striking, to see the difference . .

the coronavirus, including a theory that Israelis had immunised themselves with lemons and baking soda, have left some skeptical about claims of vitamins warding off the virus.

But Dror insisted that his team’s research showed that the importance of Vitamin D was not based on incomplete or flawed data.

“People should learn from this that studies pointing to the importance of taking vitamin D are very reliable, and aren’t based on skewed data,” he said. “And it emphasises the value of everyone taking a vitamin D supplement during the pandemic, which, consumed in sensible amounts in accordance with official advice, doesn’t have any downside.”

Omicron variant ‘a cause for concern’ perspective, a worse virus than BA.1 and might be able to transmit better and cause worse disease,” says Dr Daniel Rhoads, section head of microbiology at the Cleveland Clinic in Ohio.

BA.2 is highly mutated compared with the original Covidcausing virus that emerged in Wuhan, China. It also has dozens of gene changes that are different from the original Omicron strain, making it as

many countries need to do, he said.

Mixed real-world data on subvariant’s severity BA.2 is about 30% to 50% more contagious than Omicron.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 25 February 2022

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News

Prendergast inaugural Chair of South East University WIT, the Waterford Institute of Technology, welcomed the announcement of the appointment of Prof. Patrick Prendergast as the incoming Chair of the new South East Technological University (SETU). The announcement was made by the Minster for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Simon Harris TD, on a recent visit to the institute.

Prof. Patrick Prendergast served as President and Provost of Trinity College Dublin from 2011 to 2021. His experience includes development of global partnerships, research, innovation, and university advancement where he led Trinity’s first comprehensive fundraising campaign ‘Inspiring Generations’ to exceed its €400m target.

He served on the Board of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology for eight years. He is also Chair of the Board of Science Gallery International, a network of nine galleries on four continents, and of the Douglas Hyde Gallery of Contemporary Art. Speaking in Waterford Minister Harris said: “I have formally granted designation status to the fifth technological university in the State.

“This is the first university presence in the region and marks a truly historic moment in higher education for staff,

‘Fundraising campaign Inspiring Generations to exceed its €400m target...

students, regional stakeholders and local communities in the South East.

“I am also thrilled to announce that Dr Patrick Prendergast will be the University’s first Chairperson, and that he will be joined on the Governing Board by Jim Bergin and Ruth Beadle.

“I want to wish Dr Prendergast, Mr Bergin and Ms Beadle the very best in their roles.

Having an inaugural governing board with such vast and invaluable experience will be of huge benefit to the Techno-

logical University as it embarks on this new journey,” the Minister said.

The President of WIT, Professor Willie Donnelly, said: “We are delighted with the announcement that Prof Prendergast has been appointed as the first Chair of the new South East Technological University.

“Prof. Prendergast’s served as President and Provost of Trinity College Dublin for ten years and his standing in the academic and research community is extraordinarily high.

His appointment is a real dec-

Light, hope ... and solidarity for our women AMBER’S One Million Stars ‘LOVE’ star installation launched recently in Market Cross Shopping Centre. The ‘LOVE’ installation, which contains thousands of stars woven by individual weavers and weaving groups in Kilkenny, will be at Market Cross until the summer. This follows the project’s successful partnership with Yulefest Kilkenny late last year when hundreds of additional stars were woven and added to the installation by local star weavers.

Locals are urged to register as a star weaver at www. onemillionstarsireland.ie, weave a star and tie their stars to LOVE at Market Cross. An online tutorial on how to weave stars is available on the website. Stars can be woven

in any weatherproof material and weavers can choose to personalise their stars with their name or a message.

Amber Women’s Refuge, in partnership with Market Cross Shopping Centre and with the support of the public. aims to add an additional 1,000 stars to LOVE throughout its display at the Centre.

Each eight-point star represents light, hope and solidarity against domestic, sexual and gender based violence, while promoting the project’s eight points of healthy love within relationships.

Amber’s ’LOVE’ installation is designed to spread love and hope for a future free from violence and abuse for all in our community.

Siobhan McQuillan, Project Lead, Amber One Million

Women’s aid: Siobhan McQuillan, Project Lead, Amber’s One Million Stars Ireland with Lesley Cleere, Manager, Market Cross Shopping Centre, and Lisa Morris, Manager, Amber Women’s Refuge

laration of ambition by SETU and a sign that the new university, building on the work of WIT and our partner institution Institute of Technology Carlow, will seek an enhanced impact on the South East region, nationally and internationally.

“On behalf of the WIT community, we congratulate Prof Prendergast and we very much look forward to working with him in the months ahead as we prepare for establishment day,” Mr Donnelly said.

The Chair of WIT, Jim Moore,

said: “I join with the staff, students and outgoing governing body members of WIT in congratulating Prof. Prendergast on his appointment as the first Chair of the new technological university. I know Prof. Prendergast shares the ambitions the WIT governing body has had over many years for the enhancement of higher education in the South East better to serve the people of the region.

“I look forward to working with Prof. Prendergast in the transition to the new university and along with our congratula-

”

tions we offer our full support for the work ahead.”

The Chair was appointed through a competitive process

by Minister Harris, with a view to convening the first governing body once the university is established on 1 May 2022.

The Minister also announced Ms Ruth Beadle, Head of Insulins Manufacturing Cluster at Sanofi and Mr Jim Bergin, CEO of Glanbia Ireland, as SETU governing body appointees.

The Governing Body will also include staff and student representatives as well as other members from industry and social, educational and cultural partners from across the region.

Star’s Ireland said: “We are so grateful to Lesley Cleere and her team in Market Cross for the opportunity to display ‘LOVE’ for the coming months. Market Cross is a wonderful high traffic location for us to spread the project’s message and continue raising awareness of the issue of domestic, sexual and gender based violence.

“We would urge our customers and visitors to weave stars to help the project reach its one million stars goal and to use ‘LOVE’ as a way to start conversations about safety, respect, consent and healthy relationships.” said Lesley Cleere, Manager, Market Cross Shopping Centre.

Founded in 2019, the project was brought to Ireland and is being directed here by Art Therapist Siobhan McQuillan and Amber Women’s Refuge.

There are now star weaving communities in 18 counties across Ireland, who collectively have already woven 100,000 stars to end violence in Ireland. The youngest star weaver is five years of age, the eldest is 89. * www.onemillionstarsireland.ie

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 25 February 2022

Your Money

The Italian job the job for you... and en-suite bathroom.

• The first floor includes a living room, kitchen, working space, bathroom and mezzanine bedroom with a king-size bed.

• The upper floor includes an additional living space with a queen-size sofa bed.

BY JOHN ELLIS FINANCIAL ADVISOR

HAVE you an adventurous spirit with a passion for hospitality? Would you like to live rent free for a year in the Italian sunshine? Have you the flexibility to live and work remotely? Can you commit to contributing to the life of a small Sicilian village? Want a second chance? If the answer is yes, yes, yes, yes and yes, maybe you are the person Airbnb are looking for!

You could be the one afforded an opportunity to relocate for one year with your family, partner, or friend and move into a uniquely restored house in the village of Sambuca on the island of Sicily.

You will take up residence beginning June 30 for one year.

If you are successful you not only live rent-free but can keep any earnings received from hosting on Airbnb.

You will not be the only one to benefit from this competition as, according to Airbnb, the project aims to boost tourism and bring new temporary residents to Sambuca as part of a wider commitment to support rural communi-

ties and cultural heritage in Europe.

Travel trends have changed due to the pandemic, giving potential economic benefits for rural communities. According to a Report by Oxford Economics, November 2021, in Q3 2019 just four Italian cities accounted for over 26% of all travel: Rome, Venice, Milan, and Florence. In Q3 2021, however, those same

four cities accounted for under 17% of travel and one of the top visited areas in Italy was Sicily.

Airbnb aims to support this demand by working with villages like Sambuca, to help restore them to their former glory.

Leonardo Ciaccio, Mayor of Sambuca di Sicilia, said: “The beauty of this campaign is that it gives a second chance not

Live performance support scheme to boost Kilkenny festivals!

Iarla Ó Lionaird and Mary Butler Arts Officer Kilkenny County Council.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL’S ARTS OFFICE IS SET TO GIVE A MAJOR BOOST TO TWO FESTIVALS THIS MARCH BY PROGRAMMING AMAZING MUSICAL TALENT, DAY AND NIGHT LOCALS and visitors to Kilkenny will be spoiled for choice from March 15th to 20th with a host of live performances nightly in the magnificent Medieval Mile Museum and daily at the Festival Bandstand located in the City’s Canal Square by the banks of the River Nore under the shadow of Kilkenny Castle.

Once again, Kilkenny

County Council has taken an innovative approach and is capitalising on the City’s busy festivals to host a superb range of in-person music events and utilising government resources to provide much needed employment for performers and musicians who were hardest hit by Covid.

The impact of programming live music during key events

already proved to be a great success during Kilkenny’s Yulefest and Kilkenny Day, lifting local audience’s spirits and easing us all out of lockdown.

There’s a buzz on the streets, and excitement in the air as medieval Kilkenny springs to life with the return of Kilkenny TradFest and St Patrick’s Festival, with the programme for both greatly enhanced thanks

just to an abandoned heritage home in the heart of our village — it’s also a second chance to the person who moves into it.”

The house you will be staying in is a picturesque three-story traditional home , which was made famous thanks to its ‘One Euro House’ campaign.

What is truly special about this house is that it has been given a complete makeover.

Airbnb worked with Studio Didea, an Italian architectural firm, to transform the home.

They used materials and colours in harmony with the local landscape.

The house is over three floors, with plenty of room to work remotely and Host on Airbnb.

• The ground floor comprises a small living room, master bedroom with king-size bed

to The Local Live Performance Support Scheme (LLPSS) - a Government funded scheme, administered through local authorities which aims to support artists and performers.

Speaking about the scheme, Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Fidelis Doherty commented “The Local Live Performance Support Scheme aims to support live performances, create local employment for artists, performers and musicians and I am delighted to see the allocation to Kilkenny County Council utilised so wisely and in such an engaging way as it enhances the music offering of our March festivals”.

Adding to the Kilkenny Tradfest programme, ‘The Medieval Mile Museum Music Series’ will take place over five nights at the City’s most recently completed heritage conservation and re -development project; the landmark Medieval Mile Museum, operated by Kilkenny Civic Trust. (Formally St. Mary’s Church, the museum was shortlisted for the 2019 Mies van der Rohe Architectural Award, as well as being highly commended in the 2018 RIAI awards.)

This series will give music lovers a wonderful, unique experience to enjoy magnificent music in a spectacular setting.

The five headline performances in the series, all in aid of Amber Women’s Refuge, feature exciting blends of fiddle and guitar music from

husband and wife folk duo Zoë Conway and John Mc Intyre, songs from sean-nós tradition by the uniquely talented Iarla Ó Lionáird and Steve Cooney; Ireland’s most renowned Irish button accordionist Mairtin O’Connor, along with Cathal Hayden and Seamie O Dowd as well as award-winning folk singer Aoife Scott from the renowned Black family, Wexford Harmonica players Pip & John Murphy, trad virtuoso Kevin Burke, formally of the Bothy Band and also The Goodman Trio, featuring acclaimed uileann piper Mick O’Brien, multi-instrumentalist Emer Mayock and the renowned fiddle player Aoife Ní Bhriain.

The fabulously talented trio will perform the music of Cannon James Goodman. (A native Dingle man, Goodman compiled more than 2,000 Irish tunes, now held in Trinity College Library).

Mary Butler, Arts Officer for Kilkenny County Council said “It is fantastic to have the support of the LLPS funding (Local Live Performance Scheme) from the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media to deliver this superb music series as part of the 2022 Kilkenny TradFest festival, which returns to the city after a long two year gap.

Some of Ireland’s best known traditional performers feature in this programme of concerts are we are delighted to welcome all of these amazing musicians to Kilkenny to celebrate St Patrick’s Festival

If you are successful you choose the bedroom that best suits your needs with the second bedroom to be listed on Airbnb. You may bring your partner, friend, or family (maximum of two adults and two children in total).

To enter, must be over 18, available to move to Sambuca for at least three consecutive months starting from June 30 and be able to speak conversational English (Italian a plus!).

If selected you will be given the opportunity to take part in a mentorship program: learning Italian and attending Italian cooking classes. But you will need to demonstrate a commitment to hosting one room in the house for a minimum of nine months.

To apply, visit airbnb. com/1eurohouse and complete the application form.

Before applying, carefully read the Selection Terms available on the website.

John@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633 with us through the magic of live performance once more.”

Commenting on the return of the Festival Bandstand, Mayor of Kilkenny City Mayor Cllr Andrew Mc Guinness said “Hosting local musical talent of all ages and genres on a public stage is something that is very close to my heart and I am thrilled to see that the Bandstand is back for Kilkenny’s St. Patricks Festival.

I have been an advocaat of such initiatives for many years and know the importance of giving musicians the opportunity to perform to live audiences particularly given the major challenges of the past two year.”

The Bandstand programme of daily live performances will include some of Kilkenny’s most talented Irish traditional and folk musicians. With performance from Burnchurch, Tulua Trad, The Savage Trad Family as well energetic and vibrant ceili dance performances by Striolan Ceilí Band, as well as the emerging local Trad group Tír Na Nóg; Comhaltas Croabh Osraí, plus many more.

Events continue into the evening with a range of great music and fire performances Brazilian Drumming band Maracatu Ile Brihante Folk Duo Luan Parle and Clive Barnes and a special concert from Kila screened on our outdoor cinema sized screen and extraordinary fire performances from Rogu.

Kilkenny is the place to be 15th to 20th March.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 25 February 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 25 February 2022

Science & Wellbeing THE global medical world is a step closer to making a multi-cancer early detection (MCED) test, that can detect over 50 types of cancer, available to select candidates: those who are age 50 and older, asymptomatic, and considered high risk for the disease.

Findings from the third and final phase of the Circulating Cell-free Genome Atlas (CCGA) study have been published in the journal Annals of Oncology.

Study findings confirm that the test is proficient in detecting and classifying cell-free DNA (cfDNA), or tumour byproducts deposited in the bloodstream of a person with cancer. The test can also identify the site of the originating tumour, even in patients with no cancerrelated symptoms.

Eric A. Klein, MD, first author of the paper and Chairman Emeritus of the Glickman Urological & Kidney Institute, says these findings corroborate those of a previous CCGA sub-study but on a larger scale and with an independent validation set. He says these results set the stage for a new cancer screening paradigm.

“With the multi-cancer early detection tests, we have the opportunity to diagnose and treat cancer earlier. Used alongside other screening modalities, this could significantly reduce cancer- related deaths,” he says. For some high-mortality cancers – including liver, pancreatic and esophegal – this is the first screening test available.

Currently, only five cancer screening tests are available for patients in the Western world; this includes tests for prostate, lung, breast, colorectal and cervical cancers. They each have limitations, including varying levels of invasiveness, discrepancies in use across clinical practice and high false1. Margarine Your skin is the largest organ in your body, and everything you eat affects it. Most margarines, especially the solid kind, have trans fats.

They raise your ‘bad’ cholesterol, lower your ‘good’ kind, and create inflammation throughout your body.

Inflammation is linked to heart disease and stroke, two conditions that can give you an aged appearance.

2. Sodas and Energy Drinks The more sodas and energy drinks you consume, the quicker the cells in your tissues age. In addition to the fizz, they have more calories and added sugar — seven to 10 teaspoons in 12 ounces — than any other beverage.

Combined with the bacteria in your mouth, that sugar also forms acid that wears down your tooth enamel and causes decay. Other cons include weight gain and a higher risk of stroke and dementia.

3. Frozen Dinners

Simple new blood test may now detect up to 50 cancers

positive rates, which can lead to over-diagnosis and excess treatment.The promise of this new testing is raising hopes that a new paradigm is afoot.

It can detect the presence of circulating cfDNA through a single blood draw and is particularly effective when it comes to identifying more lethal and later-stage cancers, believed to have more cfDNA.

However, this also underscores the importance of combining the MCED with existing screening tests until further refinements are made. “Prostate cancer, for example, sheds comparatively less DNA than other tumours, making it less likely to be detected by the test,” explains Dr. Klein, a urologic oncologist.

How does it work? A ge-

7 foods that can age you badly

nomic sequencing technology elucidates methylation, or chemical changes in the DNA that control gene expression, coupled with a machine learning application that systematically identifies patterns of irregularities in the DNA indicative of cancer.

These patterns provide evidence as to where the cancer originated and can help further diagnostic testing.

‘Remarkable, and striking, to see the difference . .

The MCED test is now available in the US by prescription only.

The study evaluated the performance of the test in two cohorts: individuals already diagnosed with cancer (2,823) and those without a cancer diagnosis (1,254). It detected cancer signals from more than 50 types of cancer across all four stages of disease.

One frozen dinner can pack in half the sodium of a healthy daily diet. When you have too much salt, it causes you to drink more than normal and flood your kidneys. Any extra water will move to places in your body that have less salt, like your face and hands. That’s what makes you look puffy.

4.Processed Meats Processed meats, like bacon, sausage, ham, and deli cuts, are smoked, cured, or salted so they’ll last longer without going bad. It’s what makes them both delicious and dangerous. The sodium and chemical preservatives cause inflammation that can wear your body down inside and out. A little inflammation is good: It helps your cells heal. Too much can cause heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

5. Fried Foods Free radicals are unstable molecules that damage other molecules in your cells and add years to your skin.

The test’s overall sensitivity across cancer types and stages was 51.5%; sensitivity increased with each stage – the more advanced the disease, the more sensitive the test.

The average rate of sensitivity in cancers stages I – III was 67.6% in 12 pre-specified cancers (anal, bladder, bowel, esophegal, stomach, head and neck, liver and bile-duct, lung, lymphoma, ovarian, pancreatic, and cancers associated with white blood cells), which account for almost two-thirds of cancerrelated deaths in the West The test’s specificity (also known as false-positive rate) was 99.5%, meaning that it found a false signal for cancer in only 0.5% of those tested.

In 88.7% of cases, the test correctly identifies the tissue in which the cancer was located, which could help decrease the time to diagnosis and allow physicians to facilitate treatment with greater efficiency.

Dr Klein says the team is satisfied with the promising findings; they are hopeful that this technology could be extrapolated as a tool for cancer screening at a population level.

An update is expected soon.

You can find free radicals in fried foods like like chips and doughnuts.

6. Baked Goods Just because they’re not fried doesn’t mean are good. Baked goods like biscuits and cakes are high in artery-clogging fat that put on the pounds. They also don’t skimp on sugar, which can cause diabetes, high blood pressure, and tooth decay (among other things). Inflammation is another reason to skip them.

The more inflammation you have, the higher your chances of arthritis, depression, Alzheimer’s, and some cancers.

7. Caffeine Caffeine is a diuretic: it stimulates your brain and your need to urinate.

This can cause dehydration. When you don’t have enough water, your skin stops releasing toxins. The backup makes you more prone to dry skin, psoriasis, and wrinkles.

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Travel & Leisure 1. GREEN ELEPHANT HOSTEL & SPA: MAASTRICHT, THE NETHERLANDS Winner of Hostelworld’s ‘Best New Hostel’ award last year, this is more than just a hostel; it’s a state of being — from the healthy juice at check-in and their vegan-friendly restaurant Serendipity to the interior Urban Forest and meditation room, you’ll be hard-pressed not to feel extremely chilled here. Dorm beds start at €30 a night and private rooms from €50.

Jabbed, boosted: so how safe is it to travel now?

2. WELLNESS HOSTEL 4000: SAASFEE, SWITZERLAND Wellness Hostel 4000 was the first of its kind in the world when it opened in 2014. This Hostelling International hostel in the glacier village of SaasFee shows swathes of ingenuity by combining low prices with luxurious modern wellness and fitness facilities. The sleek contemporary architecture matched with magnificent views of the mountains is beaten only by the 20,450 square-foot spa, featuring a Finnish sauna, bio-soft sauna, herbal steam bath, whirlpool, footbath, navel stone, hydromassage showers, and freezing fog. You’ll be fully catered to here with a fresh and regional menu at Bistro 4000, or lighter bites served in the hostel’s lavish lounge.

3. WELLNESS HOSTEL 3000: LAAX, SWITZERLAND Another incredible offering from Hostelling International, Wellness Hostel 3000 opened its doors in December 2020, ready to wow guests with views of majestic mountain peaks, with many rooms boasting a panorama of the 9,840 foot-high Alps. The spa area invites you to pamper yourself in the sauna, fire bath, herbal steam bath, adventure showers, sound room, and Kneipp pool. Skateboarders and snowboarders will be impressed by the largest halfpipe in the world found in the local ski area. Expect to pay 55 Swiss Francs ( €60) a night for a dorm bed.

4. WOODAH BOUTIQUE HOSTEL: COPENHAGEN, DENMARK This gorgeous boutique hostel is a prime destination for lovers of Danish design, rejuvenating yoga, and healthy food, with hygge vibes on tap. Winning Kayak’s Hostel of the Year in 2020, the Woodah Boutique Hostel aims to become the Soho House of the hostel world, and they’re not far off.

From decadent soft furnishings and dedicated, personalised service, you’ll soon see that their little hidden gem goes way beyond the idea of a traditional hostel. At €40 euros a night for a dorm bed, you’ll be loathed to stay anywhere else in town after.

5. SPA HOSTEL KUNNONPAIKKA: KUOPIO, FINLAND Nowhere does wellness quite like Finland, a country with saunas in its DNA and an overarching love of nature. A great example of these values can be found at the Spa Hostel Kunnonpaikka in rural Kuopio, built on the banks of Siilinsalmi Lake, where a stay in one of the bright but cozy dorms gives you

7 European hostels that feel like a luxury hotel access to a gym, hot tubs, seven indoor pools, and a range of saunas. You can also rent bikes, canoes, and snowshoes to enjoy the terrain, whether it’s snowcovered or sun-drenched. Prices start at around €100 for the whole four-bed dorm room.

6. CAVELAND KARTERADOS: SANTORINI, GREECE A boutique hostel with a wellness ethos, Caveland Karterados is a complex of cave houses and terraces where you can join the owners for yoga classes, healthy food, and relaxation by their gorgeous pool, which is one of

the biggest on the island. The surrounding fragrant gardens have amazing views and scents with lemon, pomegranate, orange, pear, vanilla, and pistachio trees growing, while the homespun interiors are furnished with refurbished antique and local furniture, perfecting the boho shabby chic vibe.

Caveland offers dorm beds, single beds, and private double rooms and is a five-minute drive from Fira 7. WAKE UP WELLNESS HOSTEL: BRNO, CZECH REPUBLIC

The Wake Up Wellness Hostel is a chic yet friendly property, just minutes from Brno’s central station and the charming old town. There’s one mode operandi here; to soothe guests with a disarmingly serene stay in one of the thoughtfully designed, elegant dorm rooms with the comRest beds and tastiest breakfast around. The adjoining spa offers authentic Thai massages that use aromatherapy oils to relax your mind, body, and soul.

Your only complaint will be you couldn’t stay longer.

MILLIONS of people globally are now vaccinated, boosted and newly recovered from Covid-19 infections caused by the omicron variant.

They have what some outside the medical community have labeled ‘super immunity’. And many are ready to see the world again.

However, medical experts disagree about the level and length of protection jabs and booster or having had the bug confers.

Risks of severe illness for vaccinated and recovered people are “low and ... unlikely to get lower,” said Dale Fisher, group chief of medicine at Singapore’s National University Health System.

For these people, travel risks are now more about inconvenience than health, he said.

Immunised travellers can still get sick during their trips, he said, or have their trips canceled upon testing positive for a pre-flight test.

Fisher said travelling isn’t the Covid risk that it once was, because of how prevalent the Omicron variant is today, he said.

“There’s nothing magical about travel; you’re not more likely to get [Covid] because you travel unless you’re going from a very low endemic area to a very high endemic area,” he said. But “there’s not many low endemic areas left in the world.”

Some argue that vaccinations plus recovery provide more protection, Fisher said. However, he added, “you’re very well protected after two doses” of a vaccine, too.

People shouldn’t let their guards down just yet, said Dr Patrice Harris, former president of the American Medical Association.

“We are seeing hospitalisations reduced, but listen, we are still seeing 2,400 deaths per day in this country,” she said during an interview with CNBC Travel last week. “We are not at the end of this pandemic yet.”

That doesn’t mean she discourages travel — Harris said she’s planning two trips to Europe this year. But she does recommend that people rely on “tried-and-true evidence-based practices,” such as vaccines, testing, masks, ventilation and social distancing.

Dr Harris said people who are immunocompromised, or around others who are, should exercise more caution. Even though she’s vaccinated and boosted, she’s still careful for the sake of her 87-year-old father, she said.

People who are generally healthy, have had three doses of a vaccine and recovered from omicron should feel secure to travel, said Stefanos Kales, a professor at Harvard Medical School.

“Unless you really have some serious condition or some serious concern, and you want to travel, absolutely you should travel,” he said. “You should feel quite comfortable because what else, you know, is going to protect you better?”

“Let’s face it ... it just really looks like [Covid] is not going to go away ever completely,” he said.

“We have other coronaviruses, some of them are cold viruses and ... as bothersome as colds are we haven’t found the magic bullet for those or a vaccine. But in general, we live our lives despite them.”

Prof. Kales believes it is time to “move on” from the pandemic.

“I think it’s time to ... treat this as if we would have treated the flu or a cold,” he said.

Professor Cyrille Cohen, head of the immunotherapy laboratory at Israel’s BarIlan University, said it’s too early to say that vaccinated and recovered people are fully protected.

Like Prof. Harris, he’s concerned about the threat of new variants. He said until the situation stabilises, “I do believe that we still need to feel humble and cautious.”

Travellers could be infected with a new variant — one that hasn’t been detected yet. “That’s how it started for a lot of people back in 2020,” he said.

People with so-called ‘super immunity’ may experience less severe disease, he said. “But it is so dependent on the type of variant” that may emerge.

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Much More Than Words THIS WEEK, in our look at the recently published book of poetry and prose by The Kilkenny Involvement Centre and The Recovery College, we feature work from Pat Shortall, Dave Thompson and Derek Walsh.

If ever a book deserved the award for ‘The Perfect Title’ surely that accolade must go to a new compilation of poetry Much More Than Words.

Indeed its very title describes comprehensively the diversity of the treasures to be discovered within its covers.

This volume of carefully crafted poems, interspersed with prose and enhanced with well-chosen

Pat Shortall

images, is the second collection produced by The Involvement Centre Kilkenny and the first in a joint venture with The Recovery College.

The Kilkenny Observer Newspaper is delighted to promote the work of The Involvement Centre and The Recovery College, and so, will publish a selection of their work over the coming months.

Dave Thompson

‘Much More Than Words’ can be purchased at the following Kilkenny outlets: Bargain Books, The Butterslip Khans Bookshop, James’ Street & The Book Centre, High Street.

Price: €10

Derek Walsh

To Each his Own

Emergence

Clout or cudgeon

I saw your photograph in the Irish Times.

The stuff you wrote to win that award was way beyond me.

I thought it unusual though, that you’ve taken to wearing a cap.

I don’t wear my cap like that – back to front.

Listen son, the only time you would wear a cap in that fashion Is, if you were hand-milking one of our cows.

Your head would be rigid against her large monochrome belly your body in tune with her every vibrating tremor and pulsate.

Aye, your cap back-to-front, would then be intelligent.

Her soiled tail would swish against your cheek As you squeeze in their turn, the extended teats of her udder’s nectar.

Aware and anxious you would be, as at any moment she would likely raise a hind leg.

She not being a placid madam, she could, unannounced, kick out at your sterile pail.

Perhaps, cause you to tumble from the woodworm infested, three-legged stool.

There you’d be, prostrate in the cow-house gutter As the remaining impatient incarcerated Friesians wonder, what’s keeping you? And you grovelling with embarrassment realising the wastage of the jewelled unpasteurised creaminess, as it streams through yesterday’s barley-straw bedding.

Picking up the empty receptacle, you would be sorely tempted to give her a kick of your own, And immediately, at least five teeth-clenching profanities fill your mind, you loudly, use them all.

She would turn her unruffled head towards you as if to respond.

Totally oblivious to her wrong doing, she would continue to chew her bubble-gum cud not yet completely satisfied. ’Tis not writing rhymes that would occupy the brain beneath that incorrectly donned cap, You would not be in any state to pose for snap-shots either.

But I suppose, you, mixing in fancy social circles would be more familiar with the procedure on how to wear your cap. Mr. Poet.

I emerge from a dream into uncertain darkness, a blue light: my charger a red light: alarm-clock.

I cling to coffee, and begin to gently narrate each step, to show myself that life’s blank paper isn’t wrapped around a void, there is movement, and matter, the matter of things.

There is also the Great Tensing of the body, to place it in the past or present it to the future.

I unload the plates from the dishwasher and proceed to place them on poles and spin them; as many as I can before slamming the door.

The day is still defrosting, cracking an eye.

I notice, deep in the muted distance, two lights (blue and red), that dance along in silence for another man’s emergency.

To be sure the way it went, The ultimate password is single digit one Put always cast tow and faulted foster star No light of John- but indeed mid lesson and froth And the guardian take a light side of the froth And take no heed of the booming trade Those with money cannot hold onto it The esteem for the thick And plenty to the eyes red felt Up here is no need to order The order is in the digestion and the Cavalry is in the Clouds person.

Pat Shortall

Dave Thompson

Derek Walsh

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Feature News

A moment of Reflection.

Having placed the Pyx underneath the altar, Bishop Denis Nulty engages in a moment of prayer.

Mr Bergin, (principal), and students from CBS primary school attended the presentation of relics at St Marys Cathedral.

Restoration and relics OVER the decades St Mary’s Cathedral has seen several significant changes.

In the 1890s Bishop Brownrigg oversaw the first change since the opening of the Cathedral in 1857: the addition of new seating, the positioning of the High Altar in the Apse, the building of the Chapter House and the new sacristy, brought a new life to St Mary’s.

In the early 1930s Bishop

Collier was responsible for restoring the fabric of the building which had suffered significantly from the weather. He also blessed a new cathedral organ in 1939.

Bishop Birch also left an impact on the building when he reordered the sanctuary in keeping with the liturgical changes of the Vatican Council.

In 2010 Bishop Freeman began the present work

beginning with restoring the mosaics, the stations of the Cross and developing the Blessed Sacrament Chapel beneath the cathedral.

Bishop Farrell progressed this phase of work before his translation to Dublin.

Bishop Farrell engaged the services of a liturgical architect from Dublin. Mr Paul O’Daly, to work with local architect, Mr Brian Dunlop and over the past

two months the work has been undertaken.

On Tuesday 15th February Bishop Nulty, the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Ossory, presided over the Deposition of Relics in the Sanctuary. The relics of the saints have traditionally been placed in the altar. In 1857 Bishop Walsh placed the relics of SS Cosmos and Damien in the High Altar. In 2021 Bishop Nulty placed the

Dervla O’Shea with students from The Presentation Secondary school who attended the Deposition of relics at St Mary’s Cathedral

relics of St Oliver Plunkett, Blessed Edmund Rice, Venerable Nano Nagle in a chamber beneath where the new altar will sit.

The relics were placed in a silver pyx which was presented to Bishop Nulty

by Sr Ena Kennedy of the Convent of Mercy, Callan.

The pyx was used by her uncle, Fr Laurence Murphy, late PP of Urlingford, who was ordained in St Mary’s

Cathedral in June 1933. A medal of Catherine McAuley, founder of the Mercy Sisters, was placed in the pyx.

Michael and Agneza Morkzycka presented the relics of St Oliver Plunkett to Bishop Nulty. St Oliver Plunkett was ordained in Rome in 1654 and returned to Ireland as Archbishop of Armagh in 1669. He was martyred at Tyburn on 1 July 1681.

Fr Richard Scriven presents the photo of Ragheed Ganni to Bishop Nulty

Fr Richard Scriven (St Mary’s) Bishop Nulty, and Fr Dan Carroll pictured at St Mary’s Cathedral

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Feature

Donald Mc Donald places the Altar stone.

Teacher Olivia Collins with students from Presentation Primary school with Bishop Nulty at St Mary’s Cathedral

at St Mary’s Cathedral Sr Nuala O’Horan of the Presentation Sisters brought forward a relic of Nano Nagle, founder of the Presentation Sisters. Nagle sent two sisters to Kilkenny in 1800 and they set up a school for poor of the city.

Brother Christy Carroll from the Christian Brothers in Callan brought a relic of Blessed Edmund Rice.

Rice, a native of Callan, founded his teaching order

Br Christy O’ Carroll (CBS Callan) presents the relics of Blessed Edmund Ignatius Rice

in Waterford and opened a school in Kilkenny in 1860 and later in Callan in 1868.

Fr Richard Scriven presented Bishop Nulty with the memorial card of Father Ragheed Ganni, a martyr of the Iraq Church, martyred in June 2001 – Ragheed was a regular visitor to Kilkenny from the Irish College in Rome and visited the cathedral many times.

Alan O’Beirne presented

Bishop Nulty with a St Bridgids Cross. The cross was made by Sean O’ hUiginn from The Rower with rushes from the bank of the river Nore. Bridgid was a native of Kildare from Bishops Nulty’s diocese of Kildare and Leighlin.

After the relics were formerly presented Bishop Nulty assembled them in the Pyx and then placed them in the floor of the

Sr Nuala of The Presentation Sisters presented the relics of Nano Nagle

sanctuary. Mr Joe Maher, formerly Clerk of Works of the Diocese, presented Bishop Nulty with an Altar Stone made of Kilkenny marble. Donal McDonald, stonemason, placed the stone in the floor of the sanctuary. Donal has worked in the cathedral over many years and is presently restoring the black and white tiles of the centre aisle.

Students from Presentation Secondary School, CBS Secondary School, Presentation Primary School, Scoil Iognaid de Rís Primary School were joined by students from St Kieran’s College on the day.

Bishop Nulty in particular welcomed the students from the Presentation and Rice Schools on the day that relics of the founders

Bishop Nulty accepts the altar stone from Joe Maher

of their schools were being placed in the sanctuary.

The work continues now and a new altar will be installed in the Cathedral.

The work of renowed stonemason, Thomas Glendon, the altar is made from Combe Bruin limestone. A new ambo and baptismal font will also be installed in the sanctuary.

The work is scheduled to be concluded in March

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News

Judge: ‘Sell cow to feed your kids or go to jail’ A CATTLE dealer with €6,700 in arrears on his child maintenance payments has been told by a judge to “sell a cow or go to jail”.

At the Family Law Court, Judge Mary Larkin issued the ultimatum to the father

of the two children at the centre of the arrears dispute. The man told Judge Larkin he has fallen into arrears on his child maintenance payments of €100 a week, which he could not afford.

Judge Larkin said that the court order was made in 2019 concerning the €100 a week. The cattle dealer said: “Back then, I was buying a lot more cattle — with this online, I only have half the work and farmers are do-

ing the sales at home themselves over the phone.”

Judge Larkin told him: “You have got to pay up — borrow money or sell stock.

Sell a cow or go to jail…the issue is that you’re not doing what you are supposed

to do. It is much easier for me to send you to jail and then I bet the money will turn up in the morning.”

Judge Larkin said: “The awful thing about it is that you will stay in jail until it is paid.”

Ex-soldier gets 10 years jail for rape and death threats A KILDARE former soldier has been sent to prison for 10 years for raping a woman on multiple occasions and threatening to kill or cause her serious harm.

Niall Kennedy (31) of Standhouse Lawns, Newbridge in Co Kildare, had denied the charges, but was found guilty of 12 counts of rape on 11 different occasions in August 2017.

He was also convicted of harassment on multiple occasions between February and August 2017 and of making threats to kill or cause serious harm to the woman, once in June 2017 and twice in August 2017.

Gardaí have paid tribute to the woman’s courage in proceeding with the case against Kennedy.

Kennedy was found to be a violent, abusive, coercive and controlling man who on numerous occasions raped, sexually demeaned and threatened to kill a young woman between June and August of 2017.

He followed her, turned up outside her work, home and when she was with her family and friends or out socialising.

He monitored her, insisting she sent photos of her location when she took her grandmother to hospital and to keep her phone on so he could hear everything when she collected a male friend at the airport, and

turned up at the terminal.

He also sent an indecent image to the victim’s mother.

He called the victim abusive names, physically subdued and demeaned her and forced her into sex acts against her will.

When she tried to get away from him, he made so-called “bargains and deals” for sex, which he never kept and threatened to harm her new partner. He followed her to Rathfarnham Garda Station and laughed at her when she said she went to gardaí.

“No matter what I did it was never going to be right,” she said, “I could never escape.”

The woman said Kennedy had turned her into “a broken person”.

She had been “reduced to living in fear”, she said, and was “a shell of her former self.”

She said he has had “a very damaging effect” on her relationships and friends.”

She also said she found it particularly stressful when he was out on bail because she “feared retaliation.”

Kennedy denied the charges but was found guilty by a jury last December.

He has shown no remorse, which the victim has described as “hurtful.”

However, she said, she is “no longer a victim, but a survivor.”

Phones should be a lot easier to fix, says Clune IRELAND South MEP Deirdre Clune is looking to make it easier for people in Kilkenny to fix their phones.

Ms Clune is a member of the European Parliament’s Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety, which is putting forward measures to make portable batteries in appliances easy and safe to remove and replace.

A recent Eurobarometer poll found that 77% of consumers would rather repair their devices

than replace them, but the cost of fixing problems is often cited as a major obstacle.

MEP Clune said: “This Battery Directive is a good step forward in strengthening consumer’s ‘right to repair’, to help them save money and also to reduce waste.

“On a wider scale, the Battery Directive aligns with the proposals outlined in the EU’s Circular Economy Action Plan. If adopted, these would require manufacturers to make products more durable and repairable.”

Love and care is all it takes for you to foster a child...

THE child and family agency Tulsa has launched its National Fostering Week, its fostering awareness and recruitment campaign.

Now in its third year, the campaign focuses on the need to recruit carers for older children in communities across Ireland. A local placement will ensure a young person can maintain important connections with their friends, sports, school, and community, and reach their full potential.Across Ireland 3,984 foster carers currently open their homes to 5,265 children. In Kilkenny, Carlow, and South Tipperary, there are currently 306 children in foster care.

Foster carers play a critical role in the child protection system and ultimately a key role in the wellbeing of young people. Kate Duggan, National Director of

Services and Integration, Tusla said: “Tusla foster carers provide a safe, secure and stable home environment for the most vulnerable in our society. Right now, there are children and young people in your community who may need a safe place to live. A local placement will ensure they can maintain connections with their friends, sports, school and community. “If you have been considering fostering, we would urge you to have another think about the positive difference you would make in the life of children and young people in your community,” she said.Minister for Children, Disability, Equality and Integration Roderic O’Gorman TD said: “We all share an ambition for children in care to thrive and to reach their poten-

tial. For most children in care, this is best achieved through foster care and the committed care these children receive from foster carers, in a family setting.

Ireland can be proud of the fact that over 90% of all children in care, reside in foster care, a figure that compares favourably with our European neighbours.

“I would like to take this opportunity to again recognise and acknowledge the work of foster carers. They have made this achievement possible, through their committed care of these children. I would encourage anyone who is considering becoming a foster carer to contact Tusla on the details provided and to make that first step in improving the wellbeing and happiness of some of our most vulnerable children.”

Tusla Care Leaver, Shannon Joyce said: “I first went into relative foster care with my younger brother and sister when I was seven years old. I stayed with my family until summer 2021. My whole experience of foster care has been a rollercoaster to say the least. I’ve met so many people and heard so many stories throughout the years.

I wouldn’t change a thing!

I’m so happy that I can take all the experiences I have had and all the lessons I have learned and use them to be the best role model and mentor I can be for the young people I teach. Fostering can be an amazingly positive experience for the carers, and children.” *If it’s something you are feeling drawn to you can learn more about it on fostering.ie

Tradfest is back... and it’s alive, alive-o!

KILKENNY TradFest is thrilled to announce its return with live, in-person performances and an extended programme, including a brand new music series of concerts at the stunning Medieval Mile Museum, made possible by the Local Live Public Performance Scheme from and administered by Kilkenny Arts Office.

The 2022 invited musicians are so excited to be back performing, and to create the

thrill and energy of live music; so come join us, book your tickets and look forward to the return and magic of live music once again!

Special concerts and headline acts of the TradFest programme represent the very best of Irish traditional music and the 2022 line-up includes Paul Brady, The Kilfenora Ceili Band, Iarla Ó Lionáird & Steve Cooney, Máirtín O’Connor Cathal Hayden &

Séamie O’Dowd, Inni-K, Seo Linn, The Bonny men, Kevin Burke & The Goodman Trio, Zoe Conway & John McIntyre, Pip & John Murphy, The Peter Browne Trio, Aoife Scott & Band, George Murphy & The Rising Sons and more!

There is an extensive Music Trail in Kilkenny’s finest pubs – such a great way to enjoy a superb array of FREE live music sessions and sing-alongs with everything from trad to

folk and ballads and more besides! The Trail brings the medieval streets of Kilkenny to life as locals and visitors nip in and out to hear great music.

Kilkenny TradFest was established in 2013, it is organised by Kilkenny City Vintners sponsored by Bulmers, and is supported by Kilkenny County Council. It takes place alongside the ever expanding and very exciting St Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny each year.

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Feature WEEK THREE Kilkenny is home to the most famous cats in the world. For over two hundred years, people everywhere have heard of the fierce Kilkenny Cats.

They are part of our history; part of our DNA. They reflect Kilkenny in all its glorious past, its developing present and exciting future.

In week three, local author Donal Cadogan and illustrator Gemma Aloisi share their unique view of Kilkenny’s history and culture, as seen and told by its magnificent and ever-present Kilkenny Cats.

This week we meet Malice,Ratty, and Statia.

These are taken from their recent illustrated children’s book We are Kilkenny Cats!

The Dame, the Black Death and the statutes of Kilkenny Malice – The Witch’s Familiar One of the richest women in Kilkenny, in its early years, was Dame Alice Kyteler. She was the daughter of a banker and, when he died, Alice inherited all of his wealth. She liked her pleasures and she found herself a black cat, which she called Malice.

Alice married a rich man and he died. She inherited his money also. She married another rich man… and he died. She married a third and fourth rich man. They all died.

Each time Alice inherited her late husband’s fortune. People began to think Alice might have had a hand in seeing her four husbands out of this world.

Suspicion arose that she had used magic. Because she had a black cat many people thought she was a witch. But it was only Malice, the cat. They asked the bishop of Ossory to investigate and he was sure that Alice was the head of a group of witches in Kilkenny. He held a trial, which Alice did not attend. He found her guilty. Wisely, Alice and Malice fled in the night and left for England.

Sadly, her maid Petronella was not so lucky. She was tortured and confessed to being a witch and said that Malice was not a cat but a devil in disguise. Now all our family are little devils from time to time but nothing more than that.

Petronella was dragged to the middle of the town where a pole was driven into the ground.

She was tied to it and bundles of dry sticks were built up around her feet. The sticks were set alight and poor Petronella was burnt as a witch.

We never saw Malice again and to this day no one knows where she might be.

Alice Kyteler’s house is still in Kilkenny today and has a statue to Alice inside for all to see. Sadly, Malice has been forgotten. Such is a cat’s fate in life.

Ratty – The Plague Cat In 1348 people began to get very sick in Kilkenny and across Europe and Asia. Boils would appear on the bodies and these oozed blood. Also the sufferer would have splitting headaches.

After a few days of agony, the person would die but by that time other people in the house would have started to get the

boils. This plague became known as the Black Death.

One of the few records, from someone alive at the time, is a book written by Friar John Clyn in St Francis Abbey in Kilkenny.

People thought the disease travelled in the air. Some people went on pilgrimages to pray to be saved but this just meant they were with large groups of people for long periods and many caught the disease while praying.

Friar John noticed that people could catch the plague just by touching someone. It actually travelled by fleas brought into the house on the back of rats. At that time, my ancestor Ratty was the best rat catcher

in Leinster and he lived in Kilkenny. But no one asked him to deal with the problem. Thus he missed his opportunity to save many lives. Had people known that the rats were the source of the problem, then Ratty would have become the most famous cat ever in Kilkenny.

The rats lived in the stone and wooden houses of those who lived in the towns. The native Irish lived in sod huts that they rebuilt every few years. Thus the people in the towns died in much bigger numbers that those in the country.

The plague lasted over three years and almost 200 million people across the world died

during it. Whole families and towns were wiped out and the world would never be the same again. And all because they never asked Ratty.

Statia – A Legal Cat Kilkenny was an important place in Ireland to the Normans, or English as they were now known. They held their parliaments here many times to set laws. Unlike today, only lords, knights and bishops sat in parliament. No Irish, no ordinary people, no ladies and no cats.

The Gaelic Irish had different laws and customs. As time went on, the Normans in Ireland began to live more like the Irish.

They married Irish girls and spoke Irish. It was just easier and the king was in England, far away.

Eventually, he noticed that his Irish subjects were less and less English. They had become more Irish than the Irish themselves. As a result they were paying less attention to him. He sent his son Lionel, the Duke of Clarence, to put an end to this sort of thing.

Lionel came to Kilkenny with a set of laws and a cat called Statia. The laws became known as the Statutes of Kilkenny and were to put an end to the English becoming Irish. Statia was to help him see that the laws were followed.

In 1367, Lionel called a big parliament in Kilkenny and had all the lords agree to the new laws. These were very strict. No English could marry an Irish person. If they did, they would lose their lands and rank. They were not to speak Irish and not use Irish names.

Horses were to be ridden and clothes were to be worn the English way. Irish Brehon Law was no longer to be followed and only laws from England mattered. Most shockingly, hurling, which the Irish played, was to stop immediately and everyone was to learn archery, as the king needed archers in his armies.

Everyone ignored the new laws. The English went on marrying into the Irish families, becoming less English and playing hurling. Poor Statia died soon after. She did not like being ignored. Cats like attention, even Kilkenny ones.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 25 February 2022

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Community Community Group

Are yah right there Michael are yah right

ARE yah right there Michael?

Oh yes Michael was that great old steam engine and all the passengers were wondering would they be home before the night. Now our seniors have been wondering will they get to the new issuing of driv-

ers license before the night.

Up to recently if you needed to get a senior’s driver’s license you could pop in to the centre and get it renewed, but along came the virus from hell and suddenly everything is done on line, yes on the

internet, the cloud the place where no seniors have gone before as Captain James T Kirk might say. For sometime now the clerks have been watching the clocks and turning away our seniors from the hatch because they were a few minutes

late for their drivers license renewals, they probably forgot that one day, if they are lucky, they will be of that age group, or maybe it slipped their minds that their parents could be next in line. Now I have heard it said, that the clock

outside the hatch is slow, the one to clock in by, and the one in the office is fast by fifteen minutes, to clock out by. Oh yes never to be late and first out the door in the evening to avoid the traffic of the rest of the workers who clock out at the ‘same time’ Now going on line sounds so easy for the younger generation. It has become second nature to do everything with just two thumbs! If Darwin has his way a couple of generations down the road we will only have a thumb and one digit finger to pick your ….. I’ll leave that to your imagination.

Now I remember the celebratory pint of the black stuff when I figured out how to use the remote control! And two weeks later when the better half bought a new microwave with the digital numbers board instead of the usual knob, I was making my hot milk all day every day I was so proud of myself with my new found digital know how.

Moving to this conversation to a more serious note. Every thing now seems to have to be done on line. Press 1 for blah 2 for blah blah and 3 for three more blah blah blahs …. Banking on line, and now when you go to the shop for a few messages its ‘make sure there is nothing on the basket tray’ Gone is the personal interaction. No chit chat at the counter. For years when we

went to the local corner shop, we got the news of the day, the gossip of what was happening to all our friends and foe alike, sport, even the weather! But Now? If you want that news, go to your phone and press 1 for weather! Or google it? Well, for years my local corner shop was my google and I suppose my ‘internet news.

All our seniors live in houses who have the standard TV stations and are not signed up to the Sky, or Virgin media player. Having to live on €258 a week is tight enough without having to fork out at least €25 for WIFI, to have the privilege of paying all our bills through internet banking.

Is it really a giant leap forward to have everything on line? with a faceless autogenerated voice that if you ask the wrong question, they say sorry can you ask that question again or press 2 for assistance… and on and on it goes?

A shop with no people to chat to, in some cases the only person you might actual meet that day. Then home to watch silly repeats on daytime TV. Was it not better when we actually spoke to each other, had a chat when we went to the shop, when we went to buy some thing at the mart we shook hands, cash changed hands and in some cases we even made new friends, Time to go , Are yah right there Michael are Yah right

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 25 February 2022

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Runners up Virginia and Chris Phelan from Waterford at the Best Dressed Style Event at the Red Mills Race Day at Gowran Park

Winner Megan Conlon from Thomastown, Kilkenny at the Best Dressed Style Event at the Red Mills Race Day at Gowran Park

Red Mills Race Day onto a winner in the fashion stakes!

Red Mills Race Day returned with a bang on Feb 19th, with fashion, flutters, and fun guaranteed!

Marietta Doran and Deric Hartigan at the Best Dressed Style Event at the Red Mills Race Day at Gowran Park

R

ed Mills Race Day returned with a bang on Feb 19th, with fashion, flutters, and fun guaranteed!

After two years, Red Mills Race R ace Day’s return on the 19th of Feb was truly a turn-up for the books. With record crowds, it’s safe to say that the public was keen to return to Gowran Park for this hotly anticipated event. To celebrate the long-awaited return, all tickets were provided completely free of charge to all

racegoers, and attendees returned the favour by bringing style and flair to all proceedings.

With the public off and running in the fashion stakes, Marietta Doran, stylist and presenter, was well-placed to present a host of fashion shows on the day, showcasing the latest in racing style from Connolly’s Red Mills. With a popup shop in the style marquee bursting with must-have items from the Red Mills Store, there was something for everyone.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 25 February 2022

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Robyn Comerford, Olivia Mahony and Orla Morrissey at the Best Dressed Style Event at the Red Mills Race Day at Gowran Park

No race day is complete without a little sartorial competition, which is why Connolly’s Red Mills hosted their biggest Best-Dressed competition yet, with several fully virtual categories, as well as in-person Best-Dressed competition with amazing prizes from Mount Juliet Estate, Dubarry, the Lord Bagenal Hotel and many more.

All finalists were presented before the

fabulous Marietta and her fellow judge, celeb broadcaster and all-round man of style, Deric Hartigan, who had their work cut out for them.

After fierce deliberation, the top prize of an incredible stay at the Manor House at Mount Juliet Estate, complete with dinner in the Michelin starred Lady Helen restaurant, champagne on arrival and a horse-riding

excursion went to the very deserving Megan Conlon from Thomastown County Kilkenny, who wowed the judges with her Chanel inspired suit which was borrowed from her sister, and matching hat and boots.

All proceeds from the day went to the Irish Injured Jockeys, to help support the vital work they do in providing support and care for jockeys, past, and present, as well as

their families.

All of our winners on the day shared an amazing eye for detail, as well as an unmistakeable elegance, and each of them took real care to reflect the hope the excitement of the day and the celebration of a return to racing in their outfits!

Check out redmillsstore.ie to shop some of our hottest looks from the day!

Ella Carroll and Lauren Grace at the Best Dressed Style Event at the Red Mills Race Day at Gowran Park

Jane Davis and Ailsih Durkin at the Best Dressed Style Event at the Red Mills Race Day at Gowran Park

Richard Connolly & Siobhan McWeeney Connolly at the Best Dressed Style Event at the Red Mills Race Day at Gowran Park

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 25 February 2022

Food & Drink

Dine Me Come

With

Sweet & sour prawns Preparation and cooking time Prep: 15 mins Cook: 15 mins Serves: 4

Breakfast super-shake

This smoothie is high in natural fats and sugar - ideal if you need some fuel for intense exercise.

Ingredients • 100ml full-fat milk • 2 tbsp natural yogurt • 1 banana • 150g frozen fruits of the forest • 50g blueberries • 1 tbsp chia seeds • ½ tsp cinnamon • 1 tbsp goji berries • 1 tsp mixed seeds • 1 tsp honey (ideally Manuka) Method STEP 1 Put the ingredients in a blender and blitz until smooth.

Pour into a glass and enjoy

Transform prawns into a takeaway treat – sweet and sour prawns – in less time than it would take to have it delivered.

Alternatively, try with chicken or pork, if you prefer.

Ingredients • 300g raw king prawns • 2 tbsp soy sauce • 40g cornflour • sunflower oil, for deep-frying • handful of coriander leaves, roughly chopped • cooked rice, to serve

For the sauce • 1 red onion, roughly chopped • 2 red peppers, deseeded and roughly chopped • 2 garlic cloves, finely grated • thumb-sized piece of ginger, finely grated • 1 tbsp golden caster sugar • 100ml malt vinegar • 2 tbsp soy sauce • 2 tbsp tomato ketchup Method STEP 1 Tip the prawns in a bowl and mix with the soy, then set aside for a few minutes. Stir in the cornflour.

STEP 2 Heat the oil in a wok aover a high heat to a depth of 3-4cm. When it’s shimmering

Turmeric smoothie bowl

Full of warming and nourishing ingredients, this creamy breakfast bowl can be ready in just 10 minutes and serves 2.

or a cooking thermometer reads 170C, fry the prawns in batches for about 2 mins until crisp and golden, turning them with a slotted spoon halfway through. Carefully lift onto a plate using the slotted spoon. Turn off the heat. Leave the pan for a few minutes to cool down.

STEP 3 Carefully pour all but 1 tbsp oil from the wok – keep the remainder for use in another recipe or discard.

STEP 3 Put the wok back on a high heat. When the oil is shimmering, carefully add the onion and peppers, and stir-fry for 1 min. Add the garlic and ginger, and continue to cook for 30 seconds, then scatter over the sugar and pour in the vinegar. Turn up the heat and boil for 2 mins.

Stir in the soy and ketchup to make a thick, glossy sauce. When you’re ready to serve, tip the prawns back into the pan and stir to coat in the sauce. Scatter over the chopped coriander and serve with cooked rice on the side.

Great banana overnight oats Rustle up these easy overnight oats made with bananas, nut butter and almonds for a tasty breakfast. Prepped the night before, they’re ideal for busy mornings.

Ingredients • 2 bananas, peeled • 100g porridge oats • ¼ tsp ground cinnamon, plus a pinch to serve • 1 tbsp maple syrup • 300ml milk of your choice, plus a splash • 2 tbsp peanut or almond butter, plus extra to serve • 2 tbsp flaked or chopped almonds • 2-4 tbsp natural yogurt, to serve (optional)

Method STEP 1 Mash 1 banana in a bowl with a fork until smooth. Stir in the oats, cinnamon, maple syrup, milk and peanut butter. Mix well, then cover and chill overnight.

STEP 2 The next morning, stir the porridge, adding another splash of milk if the mixture is quite stiff. Divide between two bowls. Slice the remaining banana and scatter this over the porridge, drizzle with more nut butter and sprinkle over the almonds. Top with spoonfuls of yogurt, if using, and sprinkle with a pinch more cinnamon before serving.

Ingredients • 10cm/4in fresh turmeric , or 2 tsp ground turmeric • 3 tbsp coconut milk yogurt (we used Co Yo), or the cream skimmed from the top of canned coconut milk • 50g gluten-free oats • 1 tbsp cashew butter (or a handful of cashews) • 2 bananas , peeled and roughly chopped • ½ tsp ground cinnamon • 1 tbsp chia seeds or chopped nuts, to serve Method STEP 1 Peel the turmeric root, if using, and grate. Put all ingredients in a blender a with 600ml water and blend until smooth. Serve in a bowl with chia seeds or some chopped nuts sprinkled over.

Green breakfast smoothie Blitz healthy ingredients for an energy-boosting breakfast. Using unsweetened brown rice milk fortified with calcium and vitamins makes it more nutritious. Serves 2.

Ingredients • 1 handful spinach (about 50g/2oz), roughly chopped • 100g broccoli florets, roughly chopped • 2 celery sticks • 4 tbsp desiccated coconut • 1 banana • 300ml rice milk (good dairy alternative - we used one from Rude Health) • ¼ tsp spirulina or 1 scoop of greens powder or vegan protein powder (optional) Method STEP 1 Whizz 300ml water and the ingredients in a blender until smooth.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 25 February 2022

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Advertisement TV & Streaming

The erotic Tom Cruise classic on Netflix now

5

to watch right now on Netflix

An Aaron Sorkin drama based on a true story? The Trial of the Chicago 7 lives up to its pedigree, following the real-life trial of a group of anti-Vietnam War protestors charged with conspiracy to incite riots. With a stellar ensemble cast, including Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Eddie Redmayne, Sacha Baron Cohen and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, The Trial of the Chicago 7 is both topical and full of compelling theatrical energy.

This sports drama from 2019 marked the second occasion director Steven Soderbergh used an iPhone to shoot a feature film (the first was 2018’s Unsane). High Flying Bird tells the story of a sports agent facing the chop unless he pulls off a company-saving plan in 72 hours. Capturing the high tensions of professional sports through a unique shooting style, High Flying Bird is a fascinating piece put together with expert direction, editing and performances.

AN icon in the action film genre, Tom Cruise is celebrated for his daring nature and ability to perform his own stunts. With his largerthan-life performances and enigmatic persona, the actor has made the last few decades of his career memorable with some brilliant blockbusters that cement his legacy.

From high-strung action films to dark, complex psychological dramas with acclaimed auteurs, Cruise’s boyish charm and prolific acting skills have helped him traverse a wide variety of genres.

Synonymous with the Mis-

sion: Impossible film franchise, which is one of the highest-grossing film franchises of all time, Cruise is well-known for other films, including Knight And Day, Jack Reacher, Jerry Maguire, War Of The Worlds, Minority Report, Edge Of Tomorrow, Collateral, A Few Good Men, Risky Business, Top Gun among dozens of others.

Of the various films in his career, and among the multiple filmmakers he has worked with, Cruise’s best collaborations remain with his then-wife Nicole Kidman and the legendary auteur Stanley Kubrick in the film Eyes Wide Shut.

Kubrick always wanted to make a sex comedy with a “wide and sombre streak” and ended up making this film that abounds in bizarre sequences. After much persuasion, he convinced thencouple Nicole Kidman and Tom Cruise to star as the lead actors in this film. Always a perfectionist, Kubrick even convinced them not to take up any other project till they finished shooting the film.

Based on Arthur Schnitzler’s 1926 novella, Traumnovelle, it seems like an erotic fever dream that plays out like a sensual and surreal odyssey of sex,

tumultuous marriages, nudity and obsession against a burgeoning landscape of jealousy and insecurities.

It stars Cruise as William Harford, a doctor in New York City, and Kidman as his wife, Alice. They attend an opulent Christmas party, after which they discuss their sexual fetishes and fantasies.

Soon, William is drawn to bizarre orgies where, despite being masked, he is recognised. This poses a significant threat to him and his family, who cannot escape it no matter how hard they try.

Watch Eyes Wide Shut on Netflix now.

Eternals a Marvel hit for Disney + THE Disney+ streaming service has been steadily establishing itself as a powerhouse since its launch in 2019. It didn’t take long for originals and new additions on Disney’s service to start standing toe-to-toe (and sometimes beating) the likes of films over at Netflix. New Pixar and Marvel Studios movies have been especially successful once added to Disney+, a trend that has continued with the latest MCU instalment.

Streaming ratings for February once again dominated

by Disney+. Encanto is the biggest streaming hit of the month, racking up 1.5 billion streaming minutes during that span. In third place, behind Amazon’s Hotel Transylvania sequel and ahead of all Netflix titles, is Marvel’s Eternals.

Eternals was added to the Disney+ streaming roster in January and instantly made an impact. While it couldn’t

catch Encanto, Eternals was streamed for a total of 557 million that first week, not far behind Hotel Transylvania: Transformania (595 million minutes). There was a much bigger gap between Eternals and the biggest Netflix film on the list. Brazen, released in January, was streamed for 374 million minutes, nearly 200 million behind Eternals.

Eternals will probably stick around in the streaming Top 10 for a

couple of weeks, but it will be a while before Marvel Studios has another new film on Disney+. Spider-Man: No Way Home wasn’t released by Disney and Marvel, so it doesn’t follow the same streaming path as its MCU counterparts. Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness is the next feature film from Marvel Studios, which will end up on Disney+ 45 days after its theatrical debut in May.

A movie about divorce might not sound like the best viewing experience, but Noah Baumbach’s Marriage Story is a journey you’ll want to take.

Scarlett Johansson and Adam Driver give two of the best performances of their careers as Nicole and Charlie, a couple who embark on the emotionally and logistically complicated legal processes involved in prying a partnership apart. Painted with an emotional complexity that includes poignantly funny moments along with the painful ones, this is happy-sad at its best.

Set primarily in Vatican City, this biographical drama follows Pope Benedict XVI and Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio in the aftermath of the Vatican leaks scandal. It’s as fascinating as it sounds. The Two Popes carves up a slice of real-life drama with a first-class two-hander featuring Jonathan Pryce and Anthony Hopkins.

Alfonso Cuaron’s semi-autobiographical snapshot of the Colonia Roma neighbourhood of Mexico City tells a small story with staggering prowess.

Let Cuaron steer you through the ups and downs of a live-in housekeeper of a middle-class family. His lens captures intricately beautiful scenes in an album that quietly envelopes you with wonder and grace.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 25 February 2022

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Picture special John Mulherne

Mick Power

Alana Dragic

Eva Grazyfete

t u o b A nny Out &

WITH

Da t Lahar

Alex O’Donovan

Spring has arrived

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Picture special

Eddie Byrne Anthony and Conor Ryan

Peter Bergin

Brian Hogan

Eddie Cahill

Podge Keane

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Feature

Kings of The Kilburn High Road author speaks of his admiration for Mick Lally, his work with Red Kettle and his Thomastown roots As Lake Productions prepare to stage ‘The Kings of the Kilburn High Road’, The Kilkenny Observer met up with Dublin author, Jimmy Murphy to hear memories of his first production of ‘Kings’ with Red Kettle Theatre Company, his admiration for Galway actor Mick Lally and his Thomastown roots.

WE met in O’Riada’s bar in Parliament Street.

Jimmy Murphy, author of numerous plays, winner of many awards, member of Aosdána, and all round nice bloke.

Murphy smiles when he hears that Lake productions are presenting ‘The Kings’ in Thomastown.

“It’s sort of stange,” he says. “My great grandfather William Murphy was from Thomastown and moved to the heart of Camden Street in 1902. Unfortunately the census only goes back to 1904, so apart from knowing that he comes from Thomastown that’s all the information we have. Chances are we still have relatives there and hopefully we might learn of some relations. It’s a sort of coming home in a way, for me” FIRST PRODUCTION Jimmy remembers back to 2000 when he started rehearsals for ‘Kings’ in St Otteran’s Hospital in Waterford.

He admits that while rehearsals for all new plays are exciting the particular one with Red Kettle was especially special.

“You have to remember that Red Kettle was an acclaimed company and very much on top of their game. Apart from the fact that I respected their work and admired them” Jimmy recalls meeting Red Kettle Artistic Director Jim Nolan, and after sending a script of his newly written play ‘The Kings’ the word came back that The Waterford crew were looking at staging his play.

“I was over the moon to be honest and not long after that I got word that Mick Lally was to take part.

Long before his Glenroe days I would have seen Mick in various Druid productions, and although it is very hard for me to get star struck , Lally was different, and if truth be told I was in awe of him.”

Jimmy recalls that anyone who ever met Mick Lally would agree that there was something unique about his personality.

“You could sit for hours listening to him talk about books, poetry, music and politics,” said Murphy.

The last farewell as The Kings say farewell to Jackie Flavin.

Cast members of ‘The Kings of The Kilburn High Road’ which opens at Thomastown Community Hall on March 17. From left: Michael Hayes, Eoghan Fingleton,Derek Dooley, Declan Taylor and Alan Grant. ( Photo: Ken McGuire)

A MIRROR IMAGE OF THE PLAY “In a way, our rehearsal schedule mirrored the actors in the play. We would get the early train from Heuston on a Monday morning to Waterford, stay in digs and return home to Dublin on Friday.”

It is then that the Dublin author speaks of his roots.

“On our journey home from Waterford, when the train stopped in Kilkenny, I would think of my great grandfather William Murphy, who emigrated in 1902 from Thomastown to Dublin. You’d wonder what family he left behind and what relations I might still have there”, the playwright mused.

As it was a first outing for his play, we ask if it was his ideas or those of Red Kettle that took shape.

Mick Lally

“To be honest, as the weeks went by I watched in amazement as the characters I dreamt up began to emerge, and while the other actors had done incredible work on their parts, what excited me most was the Jap Kavanagh that Mick had started to inhabit.

Gruff, effin and blinding, racist, violent but all with a dignity that made the complex character”.

So Lally was a favourable choice in the role of Jap Kavanagh, we queried.

Author Jimmy Murphy

“Oh, make no mistake about it” gushed Murphy, “Lally was set to astonish audiences on opening night”.

NIGHTMARE SCENARIO AN ACTORS NIGHTMARE Jimmy then recalls the heartache of when things took a turn for the worse.

“Everything was in place.

The set built; posters designed; tickets sold and the first preview only twenty four hours away and disaster struck just as

Sean Lawlor

we were about to start the dress rehearsal” Murphy remembers noticing a dramatic change in Mick Lally’s appearance and how people were concerned about his health.

“We were to discover that Mick had pneumonia and was taken to hospital straight away.

With the preview only a night away Red Kettle and Jimmy Murphy were faced with a dilemma.

“We were to discover that Mick had pneumonia

and was taken to hospital straight away.

We suggest to Murphy that it is every director’s nightmare.

“Ah yes. It was frightening.

Naturally our first thoughts were with Mick and his family. It was eventually decided to postpone the opening night for two weeks to see if we could recast and maybe salvage the production.

Eventually, Sean Lawlor was flown in from Los Angeles, and somehow managed to learn the lines in those two week. It was an astonishing performance

by Sean and the play went on to be a success and it still finds an audience today.”

We remind Jimmy that sadly Mick Lally and Sean Lawlor have passed on since then.

“Indeed,” say’s Murphy.

“A terrible loss to both families, but to the theatre world also”.

“We have also seen the demise of Red Kettle Theatre Company”, continues Jimmy. “It was sinful when that happened.

I was gutted for Jim Nolan and his team at Red Kettle who had put blood sweat and tears into growing the theatre company. Sinful.”

Our final question to Jimmy is to give us his best memory from the first outing of ‘Kings’ back in 2000.

“I suppose there is a special place in my heart for the late Mick Lally, and his character of Jap, the greatest performance never seen” As we leave O’Riada’s on Parliament Street we ask Jimmy if we can expect to see him cheering on the Thomastown hurling team in the year ahead. “You’d never know he answered.

Let’s see what comes out of the genealogy wood work” Lake Productions present The Kings of The Kilburn High Road at the Thomastown Community Hall from March 17 for six performances .

Cast includes Michael Hayes, Eoghan Fingleton, Alan Grant , Declan Taylor and Derek Dooley.Director is Ger Cody Booking on Eventbrite

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 25 February 2022

Community & GAA Notes

Kilkenny GAA clubs and Community news

SENIOR FOOTBALL Clara kicked off their 2022 Football League campaign with what looked like a tricky away assignment to county champions Thomastown on Friday night.

The game was played in atrocious conditions in the aftermath of Storm Eunice but a strong Clara team showed up for the meeting. They began the game with the aid of the elements and led at half time by 1-7 to 0-1. Impressively, all six forwards had scored by then, as well as midfielder Alan Coleman and right half back Liam Ryan, who got the first point of the game. The goal was crucial as it was the last score of the half, courtesy of Kevin Nolan, and gave Clara a decent cushion at the interval.

When Thomastown began the second half with an unanswered goal and two points the gap was down to four with 23 minutes still to play. They then lost one of their better forwards Tucker Hanrahan through injury and a few minutes later they lost their full back as well. Having used their only substitute they had to play out the rest of the game with 14 men. Clara took advantage and cleverly carried the ball against the wind and forced two penalties. James Nolan expertly despatched the first one after his brother Peter was fouled and he crashed the second one off the crossbar. However Thomastown could only manage one pointed free thereafter and Clara closed out the scoring with a close range goal by substitute Sean O Shea and a fine point by Kevin Nolan.

Brian Prendergast made a couple of fine saves to keep Thomastown at bay. 3-8 to 1-4 was how it finished. The lads are away to Danesfort next Friday week.

Team - Brian Prendergast, Dara Glynn, Jack Langton, Conor O Shea. Liam Ryan 0-1, David Langton, Killian Phelan. Ciarán Prendergast, Alan Coleman 0-1. Peter Nolan 0-1, Joe Connolly 0-1, Jason Byrne 0-1. James Nolan 1-1, penalty and free, Kevin Nolan 1-1, Tom Ryan 0-1. Subs used James Casey, Sean O Shea 1-0, Evan Whearty, Paul Murphy.

FITZGIBBON SUCCESS Congratulations to Shane Staunton who won a Fitzgibbon title on Saturday as University of Limerick beat NUIG in dramatic fashion at IT Carlow. Just as they had done in the semi final against IT Carlow, UL scored a last second goal to take the title. Shane came on as a second half substitute and never put a foot wrong in their victory. Well done Shane!

Well done also to Conor Cody, who captained St. Kieran’s College to a three point win over Gort in Cappamore on Saturday. Conor was very solid at wing back throughout. They now go forward to meet Harty Cup champions Tulla in the All Ireland semi final. Good luck to Conor and the team in that.

HANDBALL Hard luck to Rory Glynn who was beaten in the Leinster U17 handball final in O’ Loughlins on Sunday. Rory was beaten by a more experienced Conor Horan of Wexford.

Conor was Leinster champion U15 two years ago and has a strong handball pedigree behind him. He took the first game on a 21-5 score but Rory rallied to go 10-6 up in the second game. However Conor regrouped and his greater array of shots saw him ease through 21-10.

There were some outstanding rallies in the match. Well done to both players.

SAINT PATRICK’S DAY St. Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny will return to the streets this year for a 6-day festival from the 15th-20th of March. The centre of the festival will be the return of the in-person Parade through the streets of Kilkenny city. Community groups, organisations and creatives are invited to submit an entry to the Parade which will

Rory Glynn (left) runner up in Leinster U17 handball final, pictured with Leinster Juvenile Fixtures Secretary Gerry Murphy and champion Conor Horan of Wexford.

take place at 1.30pm on Thursday the 17th of March. To complete an application form or to find out more about this years festival visit: www.stpatricksfestivalkilkenny. com/ KVC Kilkenny Volunteer Centre is a support service which aims to match anyone interested in Volunteering with local not for profit organisations who engage Volunteers. Our Volunteering Development Officer is available to discuss all things volunteering with anyone interested in finding out more. We also offer support , guidance , an opportunity to network , training and a Garda Vetting service for our registered organisations. We are delighted to now be able to offer appointments to anyone wishing to avail of our services. Please contact us on info@volunteerkilkenny.ie or Call 0892584946 to make an apppointment to discuss your needs. Again thank you all so much for your continued support .

CLUB LOTTO There was no winner of this week’s Club Lotto (February 15th). Numbers drawn were 9, 22, 25, 28, Bonus 19. Next week’s Top Prize will be €6,200 ( February 2nd). Play Now at www.oloughlingaels.com/lotto Promotors Draw. Súin Doyle c/o Eamonn Doyle. Caelan Greene c/o Paddy Green.Joe Scanlon c/o Neil Loy. Pauline Cleere c/o Kevin Cleere. Margaret Cummins c/o Michael Nolan. Rose Hayes c/o Paddy Greene. Sinead Carroll c/o Neil Loy. Michael Holohan c/o Online. Oisín Murphy c/o Online. Marina Tyrrell c/o online Thank you for your continued support. Lotto Sponsors : Perfecto Print AWARDS NIGHT Friday 9pm Medals Presentation and Social Evening for our Winning Teams since 2019 - All Welcome. Junior County Final. Junior League Final. Junior Section B. Kevin Fennelly Cup. Junior B winners. U21 winners 2019. Intermediate Gaelic Football 2021.Camogie U22 winners 2021.PLEASE COME ALONG AND SUPPORT OUR PLAYERS AS THE SEASON BEGINS. ALL-IRELAND CHAMPS Well done to Jack Kearns and Odhrán Lawlor (1-2) helping Marino Institute of Education to their first Higher Education Championships All-Ireland win beating St. Mary’s of Belfast at Carlow IT on Sunday afternoon.

PLAYER NEWS Good news for Alex Sheridan and Mark Holohan who were part of the successful St. Kierans College Team that beat Gort in the All-Ireland Qtr Final. The St Kieran’s College effort rolls on in two weeks time to the semifinal.

Best of luck to Aoife Shealy and Loreto Junior Team as they attempt to win next weekends All-Ireland camogie final. Lovely hurling Best of luck to the 3 O’Loughlin Gaels , Jack, Evan and Daniel as they compete in the Leinster IABA Boxing Championships over the coming days representing Marble City Boxing Club .

EASTER CAMP 2022 Easter Camp is back this April 18th to 22nd. Forms and details are being distributed to the schools this week. For information contact Mark at 087 299 5892 or Stephen at 085 718 1325. Lovely Hurling.

GAEILUILOCHLAINN ABU Scoláirí na hArdteiste, Deiseanna iontacha d’ullmhúchán agus cleachtadh don bhéaltriail ar siúl i dTobar Eoin go luath. Na dearmad tá 40% de na marcanna ag dul don bhéaltriail® LEAVING CERT STUDENTS Don’t miss out on two great opportunities to prepare

Proud cousins (centre) with the Fergal Maher Cup, flanked by fellow players Jack O’Connell, Glenmore and Ciaran Mullins, Danesfort.

Jack, Evan and Daniel, Marble City Boxing Club

for you Irish Leaving Cert Oral Exam worth 40% of your overall marks! An intensive preparation course this midterm, covering all elements of the Irish Oral Exam.

The Super Session - Practise session providing students with 3 complete Irish Oral Exams plus feedback .Bígí linn i nGaeltacht Thobair Eoin! Join us in the newest Irish Hub in Kilkenny, Johnswell!”Beatha Teanga, í a labhairt!”Contact 0876673302/ tobarnagaeilge@yahoo. com for more details.

EMERALDS GAA CLUB Mega Bingo: Every Sunday, 4pm at Urlingford GAA pitch.

Gates open at 3pm. Single books and one sheet €10; Double books and two sheets €15. Extra jackpot sheet €3 or two for €5. Please support.

EMERALDS URLINGFORD AND GRAINE LOTTO February 14th prize fund was: €6,600. Jackpot: €4,600.

Numbers drawn: 5, 7, 10, 29, bonus no 8. No winner and two match three winners: Shane Clancy, R. Guilfoyle.

Promoters prize: Fitz’s. Five lucky dips of €20 each: Martin Hayde, Killian & Nesa, B. Neary, Pauline Marshall, Sean Norton. Next draw takes place on Monday, February 21th in the Clubrooms. Results next week.

MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE LTI Pathway to Employment course QQI Level 4: LTI is recruiting for the new programme 2022. If anyone is interested in completing this full-time course, please contact the Centre for an expression of interest form.

BTEI Healthcare Course QQI Level 5: Healthcare QQI Level 5 course places available for new programme starting September 2022. If interested in completing this course you can contact the Centre.

SENIOR ALERT If you need to apply for a personal alarm, please contact Sue or Josephine in the Centre.

COUNSELLING SERVICES Our 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 addiction. Please contact Sue in the Centre for more information or to make an appointment.

Appeal for Clothes Donations: Any clothes donations would be appreciated in aid of the Centre’s counselling services. Donations can be left into the Centre, please call before dropping off. Contact number for the Centre 056 8838466.

URLINGFORD ARMS SPLIT THE POT This week’s winner of Split the Pot was Tracy Moriarty who won €390.Congrats Tracy!Tickets €2 on sale in participating businesses in town and is in aid of Urlingord National School Parents’ Association for next week’s draw. Be in it to win it!!

KILKENNY VOLUNTEER CENTRE Is a support service which aims to match anyone interested in volunteering with local, not for profit organisations who engage volunteers.Our volunteering development officer is available to discuss all things volunteering with anyone interested in finding out more.We also offer support, guidance, an opportunity to network, training and a Garda vetting service for our registered organisations.We are delighted to be able to offer appointments to anyone wishing to avail of our services. Please contact us on info@volunteerkilkenny. ie or call 089 2584946 to make an apppointment to discuss your needs.

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.

FRESHFORD SQUASH Two local men Pat Morrissey and Noel Walsh took part in the Leinster Master Squash tournament recently in Dublin. Pat was beaten in his first game by Kevin Moore of Fitzwilliam Dublin on a 3-2 score. Pat was forced to withdraw later on, due to injury. Noel Walsh was beaten

by John Hurley in his first game by 3-1 and went on to beat Jamie Barret of Mayo in his next game on a 3-2 score line, but then lost his next game. Noel finished in 6th place overall. Their next tournament is The Irish Nations in Fitzwilliam Dublin on the 4th March.

DANNY CULLETON RIP Local people were saddened to hear of the death of the late Danny Culleton, Rathduff, Ballyragget last weekend. Although he had been unwell recently his passing caused widespread shock and regret. Danny was a widely known and respected gentleman in the village and the surrounding areas and was co-founder and co-manager of BC Manufacturing Enterprises Ltd., in Freshford for many years. Funeral mass took place on Monday morning in St.Patricks Church Ballyragget followed by burial in St.Finnan’s Cemetery Ballyragget.

He is mourned by his wife, sons, daughter, grandchildren, brother, sister nephews, nieces and extended family to whom sincere sympathy is extended. He will sadly missed by his family, his friends, neighbours and workmates.

TAKE AWAY AWARD Best wishes are extended to our local Takeaway Brennans Sisters in the village, who are finalists in the Yes Chef Takeaway awards. The winners will be announced at the Gala Dinner to be held at Raddison Blu Hotel Athlone this week. They are wished all the very best from all their customers and everyone in the area.

ROAD SAFETY CLLR Michael McCarthy says that a pole is now in place to accommodate a new Feeder Speedback Sign on the Ballyragget Road at Bohergloss, Freshford. This should lead to increased safety for Road users and residents of Bohergloss. These are a welcome addition to the Road safety measures in the Village and thanks is due to the Area Engineer and his staff for their help BIRTHDAY BOY Special birthday wishes go out to Michael Burke Kilkenny Road Freshford who celebrated his 21st birthday last week. Michael who is a member of Freshford Town soccer team and also St.Lachtains hurling panel celebrated his coming of age at a party with family and friends in Kavanaghs bar on Saturday night last.

PLAYGROUND NEWS The Freshford Playground Committee got some bad news last week. Unfortunately there has been an appeal lodged to An Bord Pleanala regarding the Playground and the Committee now have to wait a further six months before they know if they can proceed.

SOCCER Freshford Town had no games at the weekend. The Junior game on Sunday was called off due to the weather conditions as was the U10 game on Saturday.

In their previous game the Junior side had another good win when they defeated one of the table toppers River Rangers on a 3-1 scoreline.

In the schoolboys section, recently the U15 boys were beaten by Dean Celtic on a 4-1 scoreline. Cian Donnelly scoring the Freshford goal. .The training sessions for U8s continue each Saturday morning (weather permitting) from 12noon to 1pm at the Sportfield at Woodview. All boys from 5 to 8 years old are welcome so go along and join up.

MACRA NA FEIRME Macra na Feirme are looking to establish a new club in the Freshford area. Macra na Feirme is an organisation for young people between the ages of 17 and 35 who are interested in getting involved in sports, travel, drama, debating or just want to meet new people and have some fun. To be a member of Macra you must join a Macra club in your area. This will open the door to new fiends and new activities. There are hundreds of clubs across Ireland bursting with activity who always welcome a new face. For more information please contact Training and Development Officer – Michael Wall on 0868359891 or email him at mwall@macra.ie GAA AGM St.Lachtains Bord na nOg AGM will be held on Friday evening next the 25th Feb at 7:30pm in the Clubrooms.

All are Welcome especially Parents/Guardians/Coaches.

If at all possible the Club ask can one parent from each family attend.

The Clubs shop is open and 2022 range is soon to be

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 25 February 2022

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Community & GAA Notes uploaded onto the O’Neills club shop. Details can be found on St.Lachtains Social media pages or by O’Neills sportswear& searching for St.Lachtains Gaa. PARISH NEWS Attendance at indoor settings are now back to full capacity and attendance at Mass almost back to normal here to. Mass in the Parish Church each Wednesday morning at 9.30am and on Sunday morning at 11am. wiith Mass in Tulla church on Saturday evenings at 7.30pm. Some Safety measures remain in place which includes wearing of masks, sanitising and you have the option to be seated without any seating restrictions in the top and middle section of the church or with seating restrictions elsewhere.

This year is the 1400 year celebration of St.Lachtain and it is fast approaching beginning with a special liturgical celebration at 3pm on March 19th when we will be joining with our Church of Ireland Brother and sisters on that special day. Further details will be published nearer to that date.

The Stations of the Cross in the Church have now been completely refurbished. Help to complete this special project of restoration through donation or contriubution is more than welcome . Yours also very welcome to sponsor a station either as a family or with a group The sum involved is €2,000 per station.

This month the safeguarding reps are competing their Safeguarding training and refresher courses. This in service is important in maintaining the safeguarding standards in the Parish especially for vulnerable and for children.

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

MASS CARDS Special printed parish cards are available at the Parish Office or from Annette at Tulla Church signed by Monsignor Kennedy. You can contact the Parish office on 056 8832843 or by email – freshfordd@ossory.ie.

Contact Mongr Kieron Kennedy COMMUNITY ALERT Freshford/Threecastles Community alert group remind you again that the annual text alert scheme membership is now due. It cost just 10euro per phone number and you can pay membership to any committee member. If unsure or for more information please call Jacinta on 0877658671 or Anna on 0858277965.New members are always very welcome and the group wish to thank you all for your continued support. With winter here and the dark evenings and nights you are reminded to take care of yourself and take care of your elderly neighbours or friends.

PILGRIMAGE Pilgrimage to Lourdes will be held from 9th to 13th May 2022. Staying at 4 star Hotel Astrid the trip costd €645 pps (single room supplement payable). Accompanied by spiritual director. Includes return direct flights from Dublin to Tarbes, coach transfers breakfast lunch and dinner each day, full religious programme, services of a Marian pilgrimage guide, mass daily and spiritual activities, all taxes and travel insurance. For more details contact C.Flynn on 089 4638769.

HELP FOR ALL Are you struggling with anxiety or depression or finding life difficult or feeling isolated at this time GROW is there to help you. Their Mental Health support Groups are free and confidential and open to all no referral or booking is needed. For more information on same you can contact Mary on 087 284342.

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

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

DUNNAMAGGIN Dunnamaggin Development Group: A Flower Arranging course is starting early next month (March) in the Old School. Spaces are limited so please share with family and friends who you think might be interested. Please direct message on our facebook page to book your place or call Joan on 087 9320371. Our next Community Gathering which consists of tea and coffee and a chat with friends and neighbours for the adults and a children’s corner with juice and crayons and colouring books will take place next Sunday the 27th of February for 11.30am to 1pm. Looking forward to seeing you all

there. Our AGM will take place on Sunday March 13th as part of that week’s Community Gathering at which The Vision for Dunnamaggin will be launched. We encourage everyone to come along and see the outcome of the consultations that have taken place over the last twelve months despite Covid-19. The monthly markets will return to Madge’s Garden in April and continue until December.

KELLS HANDBALL CLUB Girls U15 Doubles Leinster Final - Mia O Connell/Jenny Saunders (Kilkenny) defeated Dublin in St Brigid’s in the first final of the Leinster 40x20 Juvenile Championships the Kells/Windgap pair defeated Dublin in two games Congratulations to both girls on a fantastic achievement.

Results from the Leinster Juvenile 40x20 Championship Semi Finals Boys U12 Doubles - Steve Hoyne/Mattie Corr (KK) dft Laois. Boys U13 Singles - Conor Manogue (KK) dft Laois.

Boys U13 Doubles - Jake O’Neill/Jack Egan (KK) dft Laois Boys U14 Doubles - Matty Murphy/Andrew Brennan (KK) received a walkover from Laois. Boys U16 Doubles - John Hayes/Cathal Buckley dft Laois. Well done to all on their semi final wins, brilliant achievement to reach a Leinster final DUNNA DASH Dunna Dash is BACK Sunday March 6th. Dunna Dash isn’t just for runners, it’s the perfect chance to get on your walking shoes, grab a friend and get out the door for a stroll or power walk around our scenic Dunnamaggin loop!! Registration at St Leonard’s NS at 11am.

Adults €10, Children €5, Families €20. Prizes for first male, female and juvenile. This year will see the return of the “Kiddies 1km Dash” for school children from 3rd class down and will start at 11.45am. All children will receive a medal for this event. The main Dunna Dash will start at 12 noon. Refreshments afterwards in the school.

SAINT JOSEPH’S HOME A fundraising raffle in aid of St.Joseph’s Care Home, Kilmoganny. Tickets three for €5, available from Mary Moylan, Denise Kirwan, Jackie Kennelly and will be in local shops.

KILMOGANNY TIDY TOWNS Kilmoganny Tidy Towns will participate in the National Spring Clean from Friday 4th March to Sunday 6th March. Meeting each morning at 11 am at the St Eoghans Church. Please come along to volunteer and be part of this litter pick. Tell your neighbours and friends to join in. All bags, gloves and pickers will be provided. If you have any questions please contact Lorraine Moore on 0876414147.

DUNNAMAGGIN LADIES FOOTHBALL CLUB LIDL STAMP REWARDS FOR LGFA CLUBS are back!!!

Please support Dunnamaggin LGFC when shopping in Lidl.

Congratulations to Élena Byrne who was honoured with an award at the National Volunteers Awards this evening for her work with Kilkenny and Dunnamaggin LGFA ! Congratulations and thoroughly deserved LOCAL LOTTO Weekly Draw: Winning Numbers for February 13th : 10, 34, 35 (No Winner.) Winners of Draw for 5 x €30. - Mags and Shane ( Mags Cahill ),Jim Dog ( Pat Comerford ),Kathleen Hayes ( John Hayes ),Anthony Martin ( Helen F Martin ),Mary Doherty ( Joan Phelan ) Jackpot for week of February 21st € 5,650. Venue Townsend’s Dunnamaggin at 9pm. All welcome KILKENNY VOLUNTEER CENTRE Kilkenny Volunteer Centre is a support service which aims to match anyone interested in Volunteering with local not for profit organisations who engage Volunteers. Our Volunteering Development Officer is available to discuss all things volunteering with anyone interested in finding out more. We also offer support , guidance , an opportunity to network, training and a Garda Vetting service for our registered organisations. We are delighted to now be able to offer appointments to anyone wishing to avail of our services. Please contact us on info@volunteerkilkenny.ie or Call 0892584946 to make an apppointment to discuss your needs.

SAINT PATRICK’S FESTIVAL St. Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny will return to the streets this year for a six-day festival from the 15th-20th of March. The centre of the festival will be the return of the in-person Parade through the streets of Kilkenny city. Community groups, organisations and creatives are invited to submit an entry to the Parade which will take place at 1.30pm on Thursday the 17th of March. To complete an application form or to find out more about this year’s festival visit: www.stpatricksfestivalkilkenny. com/

GOWRAN BINGO Bingo in Gowran Parish Hall on Thursdays at 8.30pm.

MOLLY’S TEA ROOM Molly’s Tea Room has a selection of party food available for catering for your special events. Call 056 772 6718 if you would like to place an order.

COMMUNITY ALERTS Subscriptions for Gowran and Dungarvan Community Alerts Are Due Final reminder: Subscriptions for Gowran and Dungarvan Community Alerts are due.

This is the final week to pay your annual subscriptions for the Gowan and Dungarvan Community Alerts which are due by 28th February. €10 per mobile number.

How to Join/Pay. If you were a subscriber in 2021 you can pay online at www.communityalerts.ie.

If you’d prefer to pay ‘off-line’ or if you are new to this group and want to join, just take a dedicated envelope from Pat Hennessey’s Garage or Billy Carroll’s Pharmacy, complete it and drop it back to either locations. Feel free to take an extra envelope for a neighbour you feel might like to join the community alerts group.

GOWRAN AC The National Intermediate, Master, Juvenile B and Relays Cross Country Championships were held in Castlelyons, Fermoy recently. Gowran AC sent a team of 25 athletes to compete, with ages ranging from U11 through to over 70’s.

In the men’s intermediate race, Gowran finished as the 6th top club. Dean Rowe, Shane Noonan, and Johan Muller were also on the Kilkenny County team that finished in 3rd place. John Coady finished just behind Johan.

The juvenile races were categorised based on 2021 ages.

Emily O’Keeffe came 3rd in U11’s out of 113 runners, and part of a Gowran team that came 3rd overall. Four of the Gowran U11 girls made up the county team of six that came 2nd. Joining Emily on the county team was Heidi Ryan, Mia Kennedy and Kate Mulrooney.

MJ Carroll in the boys U11, earned an individual medal for his 9th place finish. He was part of county Kilkenny team that came 3rd.

Tómas Carroll finished strongly to climb up to finish 14th, leading home a Gowran trio to include Luke Kelly and Matthew Duggan, who were part of the county team that came 3rd.

Lucy Coomey ran well in the large field of girls U15’s to finish 24th, and was part of the county team that came 2nd. Lucy was running up an age making her result even more impressive.

In the Over 70’s category, Marty Kelly returned to competitive action, and he ran steadfast as always completing the 4km in 22 mins.

In the relays, Gowran sent a strong team in the boys U12’s and finished 4th. They were always in the running throughout the race.

Results - U11-U15 was the All Ireland B cross county championship: U11 girls (1km) – 3rd placed club, 2nd placed county* 3 Emily O’Keeffe*, 22 Heidi Ryan*, also well placed were Mia Kennedy*, Kate Mulrooney* and Laura Beatty. U11 boys (1km) – 10th placed club, 3rd placed county* 9th MJ Carroll*, also well placed were Milo Geraghty, Sean Farrell, Rory Treacy, and Ned Og Kelly. U13 boys (1.5km) – 3rd placed county* with all 3 Gowran runners on the county team.

14th Tomas Carroll*, also well placed were Luke Kelly*, and Matthew Duggan*.

U15 girls (2.5km) – 2nd placed county*,24 Lucy Coomey* The National (A) relays: U12 Boys 4 X 500m – 4th placed club.The four boys all ran well and finished a close 4th. They were always within reach of a medal throughout the race. Well done to Darragh Carroll, Evan Ryan, David Timmins, and Aaron Carrigan.

Mens: National Intermediate (8km) – 6th placed club, 3rd placed county* With some excellent performances, Gowran finished as the 6th top club. Gowran had 7 athletes competing, which was the joint largest club represented. The club was lead home by 18 Dean Rowe*, 35 Shane Noonan*, 46 Johan Muller*, followed just behind by 48 John Coady, followed by Matt Ryan. Well done to Niall and Mick for all the work with the seniors group this cross country season.

Masters Over 35 (7km): In the men’s over 55, David Farrell ran well in the massive field of 211.

Masters Over 65 (4km): In the over 70’s Marty Kelly was back doing what he does, and ran the 4Km in 22 mins, a fair achievement.

Well done to St. Nicholas AC on hosting a well-run event. We know from our own experience the work that goes into hosting a national event.

THE KILKENNY COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL The festival will take place in Gowran Park on Sunday 3rd July featuring a host of top-class Country Singers.

Performing on the day will be Mike Denver, Cliona Hagan, Robert Mizzell, Trudi Lalor, Jimmy and Claudia

Buckley with backing band The Conquerors. Tickets now on Sale and for further information, check out kilkennycountrymusicfestival.ie or email kkcountrymusic@gmail.com SEAN NOS WORKSHOP The dancing workshop will take place with Laura Ganley on March 6th from 2pm to 4pm at Ionad Dara, Goresbridge. Entry is €10. For more information, please contact Majella on 086 354 3539.

KILKENNY VOLUNTEER CENTRE Kilkenny Volunteer Centre is a support service which aims to match anyone interested in Volunteering with local not for profit organisations who engage Volunteers. The Volunteering Development Officer is available to discuss all things volunteering with anyone interested in finding out more.

They also offer support, guidance, an opportunity to network, training and a Garda Vetting service for our registered organisations. They are delighted to now be able to offer appointments to anyone wishing to avail of our services. Please contact us info@volunteerkilkenny.ie or call 0892584946 to make an appointment to discuss your needs.

SPORTS ROUND UP --- MICHAEL O’LEARY STEFFI STARS AS DCU STROLL TO ASHBOURNE GLORY Congratulations to Steffi Fitzgerald who played a prominent role as DCU strolled to their very first Ashbourne Cup Camogie title as they defeated their Dublin counterparts UCD 1-14 to 0-5 in WIT Sports campus last Sunday week.

Two of Young Irelands most loyal servants, Steffi’s Grandmother Peggy Fitzgerald and her Grandfather Paddy Treacy were in attendance to celebrate their Granddaughter’s triumph in what was a historic victory for the Dublin College.

Unfortunately, there was disappointment for Steffi’s sister Tiffany who was part of the NUIG Team that lost the Purcell Cup Final, but there was better fortune for another Young Irelands Camogie Player Mia Murphy who was part of the UCC Panel that won the Fr. Meagher Cup Final.

CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL PREVIEW A Cheltenham Festival Preview takes place in Gowran Park this coming Friday night, 25th February. Guaranteed fun night, with some of racings best known personalities, including Patrick Mullins, Jamie Codd and Sean Flanigan. Fun spot prizes and auction on the night.

CLUB LOTTO Dicksboro GAA Club LOTTO Results Feb 17th. Nos:11– 31– 10– 23Jackpot: €7,900 not won.

Draw Prizes – €50: Elsie Buggy c/o online. €25 each Pam Cahill c/o Tommy Hackett €25 each Mary Deegan c/o P and J Cody. €25 each Michael Trait c/o online Co op draw ticket Siobhan Gorman c/o online.

Promotors prize Jim Murphy New weeks draw €8,050 24th of February 2022 FOOTBALL Our Senior Footballers got their season off to a winning start on Saturday in Palmerstown. Played in windy conditions, our lads ran out deserving winners versus Kilmoganny. 6-09 to 2-04.

Our 13 Footballers A and B Teams had great wins on Sunday morning versus O Loughlin Gaels and Blacks and Whites. Both games were played in very tough conditions in James Park.

HURLING U21 Hurling Final. The very best of luck to the Dicksboro U21 Team and Management as they face Shamrocks Ballyhale this coming Saturday in Callan at 2pm.

PALMERSTOWN CLUBHOUSE Dicksboro Clubhouse Bar has reopened, Thursday from 8.30pm and every Thursday going forward. Thursday nights is Lotto Draw and Cards Night. All are welcome out for a social drink, a chat and if there is interest, a beginners cards table. We are offering a particular welcome to all of our senior citizens members, it’s been a difficult past two years and we would be delighted to see you out to the club for a chat. We have a selection of non-alcoholic beers, barista coffee and all the usuals.

We look forward to seeing you all CLUB REGISTER 2022 We are delighted to announce that Registration for Dicksboro GAA and Camogie Club for 2022 is now open. There are a number of ways for existing and new members to register with the club ; Click on the link below ( For existing members enter your e mail address to retrieve all details from last year’s registration process ). Go to the membership page on Clubs App and sign up,https://dicksborogaa.com/membership_signup

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

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Hurling matters

Sport

Paddy Deegan

Billy Ryan has looked lively

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Allianz Hurling League Roinn 1B Kilkenny vs Laois Sunday February 27th, UPMC Nowlan Park, 2pm

Kilkenny will take to the UPMC Nowlan Park turf on Sunday, looking to bounce back from their injury-time defeat to Tipperary, when they face-off against Laois in round 3 of the Allianz Hurling league.

Brian Cody will be eager to see his charges dust themselves off and get back to winning ways against a team that has lost both games in their campaign to date.

While the game in Thurles a couple of weeks ago, wasn’t high on quality, it was certainly a very entertaining affair, and while Colm Bonnar’s team won by the minimum, the result could have gone the other way, or even a share of the spoils.

The victory in round 1 over Antrim was no walk in the park either, but the Cats held on to claim full points at UPMC Nowlan Park, against Darren Gleeson’s battling Saffrons.

The early rounds of the league, historically, are the training ground for counties. They get to blood new players, try some out in different positions and generally have a blank canvas with which to experiment. This year however, is a little different, as the championship comes hot on the heels of the Allianz league. If you suffer a bad league campaign, it can be very difficult to re-group quickly and build any momentum for the business part of the season.

Winter hurling, and yes, it is very much still winter, can be very unpredictable. Conditions underfoot on many pitches will test the best of hurlers, but put that together with the weather elements and one never knows what the outcome might be at the end of many games!

Let’s take a look at Sunday’s opponents, Laois.

As we said earlier, The O’Moore County have started this year’s league with two defeats.

Their opening day defeat, at home to Tipp saw Cheddars men battle well, but come up 4 points short at the long whistle. It’s worth noting that Laois played the last 25 minutes of that game with 14 men, having had Paddy Purcell redcarded following an off the ball incident with Craig Morgan. Six points behind and a man down, that could have spelt disaster, but to their credit, Laois dug in and ensured that Tipp had to work hard to claim the points.

Stephen ‘Picky’ Maher was again the main contributor of scores, hitting 8 points, including 5 from frees. Enda Rowland finished with 1-3, and was unlucky when his late free from the ‘21 was tipped over by Tipp keeper Hogan. There was also a very impressive cameo from James Keyes, who notched 0-3 from the bench.

How Laois battled against Tipp wouldn’t be indicative of what would happen in their round 2 match with Waterford in Walsh Park.

Cheddar’s charges suffered a heavy 33-point defeat to the Deise men, who don’t forget, fielded without any of their Ballygunner contingent. Enda Rowland would see his net breached some SEVEN times as a four-goal salvo in the four minutes leading up to halftime, proved to be Laois’s undoing. Despite playing with wind advantage in the first-half,

Kilkenny seek home comforts Laois next up for Cody’s Cats

Brian Cody will want to get back to winning ways

The Nowlan Park faithful will hope to on their feet on Sunday!

the O’Moore County found themselves 5-12 to 0-11 down at the short whistle, with 4-5 of Waterford’s half-time score coming in the last 8 minutes of the opening period.

Once again, Laois saw an improbable task turn into an impossible one, when Slieve Bloom club man Ben Conroy was then sent off for a challenge on Tom Barron early in the second half, meaning that unless there’s a last-minute appeal. Conroy won’t be available to line out against the Cats on Sunday.

Picky Maher hit another 0-8 in the defeat

to Waterford, while wing-forward Ross king notched 0-4, but Laois only registered 8-points in the second period, playing against the elements.

Laois will look to the Clough/Ballacolla men when they roll up to UPMC Nowlan Park this weekend. Picky Maher, Willie Dunphy, Aidan Corby, Stephen Bergin and Jordan Walshe all have recent experience of Kilkenny opposition, and it didn’t end well that day when Shamrocks Ballyhale inflicted a 27-point defeat on them in the Leinster Final. Picky Maher was kept very

quiet that day in Croker, thanks to a wonderful man-marking job by Darren Mullen.

Cheddar will know that it will be imperative that Laois keep their full quota of players against Cody’s Cats, if they are to stand any chance of a positive outcome on Sunday. Indeed, Plunkett made reference to the red cards dished out to his team this season recently, when he questioned if physicality was being taken out of the game and dismissed any suggestions that his side are ill-disciplined.

Turning our attention to the black and

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 25 February 2022

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kilkennyobserver.ie

Hurling matters

Eoin Murphy could get the nod against Laois

Mossy Keoghan has scored 2-3 in the league this season

points between them.

Kilkenny opted to start the Antrim game with St Lachtains Darren Brennan between the sticks, and he certainly earned his stripes, with an unbelievable save late on from Donal Nugent to ensure the Cats emerged with maximum points.

Glenmore’s Eoin Murphy played against Tipp, and one puck-out aside, also acquitted himself well.

The trip to Tipp was always going to be a much more interesting fixture. To many of the socalled pundits, the game highlighted the gulf between those teams considered to be ‘top table and the rest.

In testing conditions, both Bonnar & Cody’s men delivered what they could and while the result didn’t go the Cats way, the managers will have taken plenty from the Thurles clash.

O’Loughlin’s Huw Lawlor was in good form, and will no doubt be one of the defensive lynchpins for Kilkenny this season. Mikey Butler has also stuck to his task well during both outings to date. In front of Huw Lawlor, you would normally find Padraig Walsh, but not so far this season. The talented Tullaroan man has been deployed at No.11 in the first two games, notching 6 points in total. We could well see him line-out in the attacking third again this Sunday.

There’s no doubt that Brian Cody has been experimenting in the opening two rounds of the Allianz league. Will we see Padraig Walsh at No.11, Paddy Deegan at No.9 come the Leinster Championship? Only time will tell. Walsh’s usual berth at centre-back has been shared around a little in the Walsh cup and league games. James Stephens Niall Brassil got the nod against Tipp, while Huw Lawlor had the No.6 jersey against Antrim. We have also seen Conor Heary there, during the Walsh Cup games.

In attack, Billy Ryan has looked lovely in his run-outs. His role in the Cats goal last time out against Tipp was crucial. Both Ryan and John Donnelly have dove-tailed well with Mossy, and may well get another opportunity against the O’Moore County. The Laois defence will certainly know they’ve been in a game after sparring with Mossy Keoghan.

Whatever XV Cody goes with from the start, Kilkenny should have enough about them to take maximum points and leave Cheddar pointless come Sunday evening.

>> SHERRY SAYS...

Padraig Walsh has been on the front foot this season

amber, Brian Cody will be stressing the importance of this game to his panel. It may well be the final two outings against Dublin and Waterford, before we see the Ballyhale boys back in their county colours. Kilkenny veteran, TJ Reid will definitely not be making a surprise re-appearance in the new county jersey this weekend, as he and his wife, Niamh de Brún have finally managed to get away on honeymoon, following Shamrocks extended club season, which ended in injury-time heartbreak, as Ballygunner stole the All-Ireland

crown deep in stoppage time.

To compound matters for the Shamrocks County stars, Eoin Cody went on to suffer semifinal heartache, when he and his IT Carlow squad lost out in similar fashion to Dean Mason’s UL in their recent Fitzgibbon Cup match.

The club form shown by Ronan Corcoran in the season just finished, will have given Cats manager Brian Cody plenty to think about, in his search for additional squad depth. It will be interesting to see if the imposing and skillful

midfielder can make the squad in the coming weeks, fitness permitting.

In the Noresiders opening round fixture with Antrim, the squad had to battle right to the long whistle to secure the expected victory. Mossy Keoghan at No.14 proved to be the main thorn in the Saffrons side at UPMC Nowlan Park, finishing the day with 2-2. He was supported in the scoring stakes by Padraig Walsh, who hit two lovely points and the accurate free-taking of Thomastown’s John Donnelly and Conahy Shamrocks, James Bergin, who contributed 7

In theory, Laois is the perfect game for Kilkenny to get back on the horse, following the defeat to Tipp. Cheddar’s side have a 100% record in the Allianz League – played two, lost two. The 100% record should be maintained on Sunday.

It will be interesting to see who gets the nod to at UPMC Nowlan Park this weekend.

I for one, would love to see Cian Kenny get another run-out. The engine room is going to be so crucial, especially come championship time.

Is there anything that Padraig Walsh can’t do? His score-taking from the centreforward position has been outstanding.

Class and quality always shine through, no matter what jersey some players throw on.

The goalkeeping position is another interesting one. Despite Eoin Murphy’s club season at No.6, you don’t feel that Mr. B Cody will play the Glenmore man out the field. After all, Eoin, is an All-Star goalkeeper. St. Lachtains Darren Brennan hasn’t done anything wrong, and is there if needed. Shamrock’s keeper, Dean Mason could also be knocking on the door in the near future.

Thomastown’s John Donnelly will most likely be on placed ball duty on Sunday. To date, he has delivered in the absence of TJ. Billy Ryan has shown glimpses of his talent, especially against Tipp. There’s no doubt that he and Mossy can really hurt the Laois rear guard. Mossy will hope to raise another green flag if selected.

Let’s beat Laois, then move on to the clash with the Metropolitans. We can then perhaps start to see an enhanced Cats squad with Ballyhale representation. One step at a time sweet Jesus!

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 25 February 2022

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Camogie

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Littlewoods Ireland Camogie League Division 1 Group 2 Clare vs Kilkenny BRIAN Dowling will take his panel to Clare for their second round Littlewoods Ireland Camogie League fixture on Sunday as he looks to make it back-to-back wins for the Senior Ladies.

Having seen off the spirited challenge of the Treaty County in Callan earlier this month, Dowling will be hoping to further improvement from his squad as they seek to continue the defence of their league title.

Standing in the Marble County’s way will be the Banner, under the joint stewardship of Conor Dolan and John Carmody. For the first time since Clare’s arrival into senior camogie in 2009, the adult panels have merged their coaching and training resources to form a twin-pronged approach the season.

Joint senior captain, Clare Hehir in her second year leading the Banner seniors has spoken highly of the dual approach being taken by the camogie hierarchy and believes the large numbers at training coupled with new voices in the coaching set-up, can only enhance the players development.

Hehir will have to do without her co-captain Niamh O’Dea, who will miss the entire league campaign due to a broken wrist, but her absence will present opportunities for others within the panel. Speaking to local media ahead of her county’s league campaign, the captain knows that the depth is there and that the squad will need to be ready.”

“The intensity of training is unbelievable, the hits are going in and training at the weekend, you’d definitely know that the first round of the league is coming up this weekend. And that’s what is needed, for the junior players to push the seniors on and who knows you might even see them lining out at senior before the year is out”.

The full-back added: “Injuries can come at any time of year but they do give the opportunity for other girls to put their hand up and if they want that position badly enough, it will give the management a headache. We’ve two big tests coming up with Cork and Kilkenny both coming to Clare in the space of a week so it’s just about showing what we’ve been working on in training over the past few weeks.”

The Banner’s opening round game with Cork in Ennis, ended in an 8-point defeat, but the Rebel County’s second goal came in injury time and somewhat flattered the Leesiders, who experience probably just saw them home. Clare had decent performances from captain Hehir, along with the half-back line in front of her and keeper Clarecastle club woman, Doireann Murphy. In the attacking third, Truagh-Clonlara duo, Aine O’Loughlin and Eimear Kelly looked lively throughout.

Like all recent sports action, the weather elements have played a huge part in the quality of produce served up across the Island.

The most talked about action from Clare’s defeat to Cork was probably the red cards shown to Cork mentor Davy Fitzgerald and the home sides Conor Dolan in the closing stages of the game.

Sixmilebridge’s Chloe Morey is a very talented camog, and will be well known to the Cats players. Morey was one of the Banner’s

Clare next up as Cats seek second win

Tiffi Fitzgerald will look to halt Clare

Banner challenge for stripey women Sarah Crowley has stepped up

Katie Nolan scorer supreme

Grace Walsh will stick to her task

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 25 February 2022

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Camogie Katie Power will hope to get more playing time

Steffi Fitzgerald

top scorers last season, and will hope to trouble the Kilkenny defence this weekend.

Clare should also be boosted with the return of the Scariff Ogonnelloe contingent, following their All-Ireland Senior Club Championship Semi-Final defeat to Oulart the Ballagh in Clonmel recently.

While Clare opened their league campaign with that defeat to Cork, Kilkenny picked up maximum points in Callan with an 8-point win over Limerick in Callan. The reigning league champions were out through their paces by the Treaty County, but had a little too much class for the visitors. Last season’s shining light, Katie Nolan was very impressive and finished with a personal tally of 1-8, including five scores from the placed ball and an exquisitely taken goal in the opening period. The St Martins attacking star is certainly on an upward trajectory, and can have another productive season with the stripey women.

Keeping Katie company in the scoring stakes was Tullaroan’s Miriam Walsh. The powerful forward notched 0-4 in Callan and looks hungry to help get her county back to the form which saw them claim the AllIreland crown in December 2020. Not only a scorer, Miriam is vital at linking the play for the Cats attack and also assisted in other scores in the opening round victory over John Lillis’s side.

Brian Dowling’s team had something like eight different scorers weighing in last time out, and that will have pleased the O’Loughlin’s club man, as he looks to spark that fuse that saw them triumph in 2020.

Katie Power, who was introduced from the bench against Limerick, will be pushing for a starting berth against the Banner, and like the Kilkenny Gaels, her manager will be hoping our ‘special K’ stays fit for the season ahead.

Also catching the eye in Callan was James Stephens Niamh Deely and Young Irelands duo and sisters, Steffi & Tiffi Fitzgerald.

Incidentally, all three were recently named on the CCAO Third Level Camogie All-Star team along with Dicksboro’s Ciara O’Shea and Jane Cass. Sarah Crowley also lined out for the seniors, following a cracking intermediate campaign last season. The Kilkenny boss has also welcomed Julianne Malone back to the panel, following a stint down under. The Mullinavat camog made her senior debut for the Cats back in March 2016, and Dowling will be hoping that Malone’s experience will add a new dimension to his side.

This weekend’s encounter with Clare will give the Cats bainisteoir a chance to cast his eye over his squad ahead of the next match with Cork, who defeated Kilkenny is last season’s All-Ireland semi-final. Beating Clare will set the stripey women up nicely for the Rebels a fortnight later.

>> SHERRY SAYS...

Manager Brian Dowling will hope to keep winning

A trip to Clare is a good test for Brian Dowling’s panel at this early stage of the season. It is quite possible conditions will once again be difficult, and this can sometimes be a great ‘leveler’.

The camogs appear to have retained the vast majority of last year’s panel, and this will hopefully help the panel gel quickly as the league campaign develops. Sarah Crowley & Tiffi Fitzgerald have stepped up from John Scott’s intermediate side and will be keen to cement their places in the senior squad.

Tiffi’s performances for NUIG in the higher education tournaments, have certainly caught the eye, and ended up with both herself and sister Steffi (DCU) being named in the CCAO Third Level Camogie All-Star team.

Hopefully this weekend will see St Martins Katie Nolan cause havoc in the Clare defence and allow both her and the attacking unit to run up a good score ahead of a trip to face the Rebel County.

First we’ll take Clare, then we can conquer Cork.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 25 February 2022

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Basketball

Vikings victorious Dublin ballers too strong for Kilkenny

Kilkenny Masters Team

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

THE Kilkenny Men played their first game in the inaugural National Masters Cup recently at O’Loughlin’s. The best of the Dublin Masters proved to be very tough opposition for the lads in their first game together since November last year.

Kilkenny started brightly with nice scores from Philip Brennan, Aoghan Courtney and Daniel McDaid.

Defensively, the team

Dublin Masters Team

worked very hard, but the Dublin lads had a big height advantage and they used this very effectively to take an early lead.

The second quarter was a tough battle again, with John Fogarty and Mark Nelson contributing nicely for the Cats. However, the Dubs found their scoring rhythm in this quarter, mixing it up with some long-range scores to take a 40 v 25 lead into half-time.

A huge team effort was required by the Kilkenny team to maintain their challenge and it was given in abundance. Éanna Brady, Paul Kavanagh and Anthony Wall made big

contributions in this quarter, with relentless defence that was the platform for the team’s offence. Aoghan Courtney picked up some eye-catching

baskets to keep the vocal crowd in attendance entertained.

Going into the final quarter 20 points down, the Kilkenny men could have been forgiven for taking their foot off the gas and accepting the result. However, that certainly was not the case as each player gave everything

they had for every minute they were on the floor. Noel Murphy made a big impact on the defensive boards, while Darius Novilakas and Raimondas Stonkus were a constant threat in offence.

The game ended with the Dublin Vikings on 74 points and Kilkenny on 50 points. Despite the loss, the Kilkenny lads can be very proud of their performance,

Dublin shoot from the free-throw line

as they prepare for the Kilkenny Masters tournament which is due to take place over the first weekend in March.

After the game, and in the spirit of Masters Basketball, both teams attended Paris Texas, who are the main sponsor of Kilkenny Masters Basketball, for the postmatch drinks to celebrate a great game.

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Motors Classifieds

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

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Planning Memoriams/Miracle notices prayers

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL We, Vera and Mark Lawlor, hereby apply for Full Planning Permission to erect a new single storey private house with attached office/study and garage, new water borehole, to provide new treatment plant and percolation area, to form a new entrance from the public road together with all associated site works on lands at Knocknabooly, Stoneyford, Co Kilkenny.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m.

Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application.

The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Michael Condon MRIAI, Architect, MRC Design Ltd – 1 City Wall, James Street, Kilkenny Ph. 087 2032869 KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL Planning Permission is sought for rear extension comprising split level lower ground floor and ground floor levels with external terracing, also to include elevation alterations comprising revised bay window extension to the front elevation, roof finish, widened road entrance and new pedestrian gate, internal alterations, boundary treatment, landscaping including all ancillary and associated works at 33 Greenshill, Kilkenny The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application.

The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Applicant: Martin and Irene Coughlan

TO PUBLISH PLANNING APPLICATION, CONTACT US: Call to our office at: Unit 7 Friary Street Telephone: 056 7771463/086 2395370 Email: sales@kilkennyobserver.ie

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

St. Anthony Prayer,

O Holy St. Anthony gentlest of Saints, your love for God and charity for His creatures, made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers.

Encouraged by this thought, I implore you to obtain for me (request).

O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms.

The gratitude of my heart will ever be yours.

Amen M.B

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.D

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.B

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.M

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