Kilkenny Observer 27 June 2025

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27th June 2025

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Seven in 10 Kilkenny people expect pay raise this year

Seven out of 10 (69%) people in Kilkenny expect to receive a salary raise this year, according to research conducted by leading recruitment agency, FRS Recruitment. Additionally, almost nine out of 10 Kilkenny workers would be willing to change jobs for a salary increase of 20% or less and 47% of people in the

county believe their salary fairly reflects their current role.

The research also showed that 71% of people in Kilkenny believe they could find a new job in 3 months or less. This is very slightly ahead of the national average of 70% of people who would be confident of securing a new role in that same period.

While more than half (53%) of Kilkenny workers say they fear for their job security, but only 3 in 10 (29%) would consider a pay cut if their job was at risk.

This data was revealed in the annual FRS Recruitment Employment Insights Report, which has been conducted by FRS Recruitment every year

since 2009 to help gauge the outlook for the employment market from the perspective of employees and employers alike. A total of 1,987 people took part this year.

Seven out of 10 Kilkenny employees (71%) have also been asked to spend more days in the office over the last year. Na-

tionally, as many as 2 in every 3 employees (65%) have been asked to do the same.

When it comes to Kilkenny employers, 9 out of 10 are concerned about the current economic outlook, which is ahead of the national average (72%).

71% of local employers also say they are less likely to hire

this year if the US imposes additional tariffs that apply to Ireland.

Concerns about the economy are also shared by the wider public in Kilkenny, with the majority (53%) believing the economy will only remain at full employment for another year or less.

Award for UHW therapist Megan Walsh, Occupational Therapy Department, University Hospital, Waterford, has received the Best HSCP Led Project award for her project ‘Occupational Therapy Led Reablement – Promoting Patient Flow’, one of 12 innovative solutions to healthcare challenges recognised at the annual HSE Spark Summit in Dublin.

The event celebrates the creativity and ingenuity of frontline healthcare professionals, bringing together international experts, policymakers, and local innovators to explore latest advancements in healthcare innovation.

The HSE Spark Award winners show just some of the ways that using existing resources in different ways, can massively improve processes and reduce pressure on healthcare professionals.

It’s back to nature for film couple Kilkenny couple Diarmuid ‘Gizzy’ Lyng, and his wife, spoken word artist Siobhán de Paor [pictured] are the subjects of the new documentary titled Immrám .

Guided by the teachings of philosopher and mystic John Moriarty, the couple are leading a growing movement that aims to reclaim indigenous Irish identity, customs, religion, and language.

Following a fundraising campaign, the couple have secured funding to establish an Irish language cultural

The Best Comment & Opinion in Kilkenny

centre for the movement in South Kilkenny.

The new documentary follows the Lyng family and their circle of friends as they embark on a 10-day pilgrimage across the south of Ireland. It meets them at their home in Co. Kilkenny, at gatherings and rituals, offering poignant insights into their beliefs.

Immrám is produced by Fierce Quiet Films and directed by Mieke Vanmechelen and Michael Holly.

Speaking ahead of the film’s

Child poverty ‘great shame’ premiere, Vanmechelen invited audiences to come and be inspired: “Immrám is an immersive, experimental documentary, more of a sensorial journey than a traditional narrative.

We recognised Diarmuid and Siobhán’s open-mindedness, thoughtfulness, and engagement in a broader cultural dialogue, which makes them fascinating subjects. In a post-Catholic, neo-liberal Ireland, they are working to establish new cultural and spiritual connections that

resonate with nature. I believe that viewers will find their journey truly inspiring.”

The couple follow the teachings of the enigmatic philosopher and mystic John Moriarty (1938-2007) who is always present in the documentary, explains director Michael Holly.

“Footage and interviews with the Lyng family are juxtaposed with archival television footage of John Moriarty. Moriarty wanted to reconnect with his wild nature to ‘decivilise’ himself

by living a life in communion with the rhythms of nature and engaging with the profundities of mystical philosophies from around the world.

Viewers will encounter poetic visuals, personal moments of ritual and contemplation, and a meaningful exploration of Irish culture, ecology, and spirituality, all accompanied by a beautiful musical score composed by Caoimhín Ó Raghallaigh.

Immrám will premiere at this year’s Galway Film Fleadh on Saturday, July 12.

Sinn Féin MEP for Ireland South, Kathleen Funchion, has called for a strong European Child Guarantee which serves children of all backgrounds and means.

Funchion was speaking at a working group meeting on the European Child Guarantee, which she was recently appointed to.

“Child poverty is one of the great shames of our time and I believe that in 2025 this simply isn’t good enough. No child should grow up in poverty in this day and age,” she told the meeting.

PAUL HOPKINS

MARIANNE HERON

JOHN ELLIS

GERRY MORAN

Telling it like it is.

And with no holds barred

A straight shooter.

Considerate and wise words

Great advice.

Your money in mind

Quirky take on bright side of life

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News Do you know a child, aged eight to 12, with a lifelong physical health condition living in or near Co Kilkenny who’d love to connect with others and get creative this summer?

National children’s arts and health charity Helium Arts is holding a free threeday summer camp in St Canice’s Neighbourhood Hall, Butts Green in Kilkenny from July 29 to 31 for eightto-12-year-olds with lifelong physical health conditions like diabetes, epilepsy, spina bifida, heart conditions, juvenile arthritis, and rare and complex conditions.

Thanks to the generous support of the Ladeside Fund, Kilkenny County Council, and Creative Ireland, Helium Arts is to host its very first workshop in Kilkenny. This marks an exciting expansion of their nationwide programme, which already includes community workshops in 10 locations across Ireland, as well as accessible online sessions available to young people nationwide.

Led by professional artists and supported by friendly volunteers, the Kilkenny Summer camp will also have a dedicated medic on site to ensure a safe, welcoming, and supportive environment for all participants.

Announcing the Kilkenny camp, CEO of Helium Arts Helene Hugel, said: “We are so excited to bring our

A helping hand for energy poverty

Joy and laughter at the Helium Arts camp workshops to Kilkenny for the first time. The aim of our Kilkenny Summer camp is to inspire creativity, provide social opportunities, offer new experiences, foster friendships, and improve the wellbeing of

eight-to-12-year-olds living in or near Co Kilkenny living with chronic health conditions.

“These children can often face loneliness, stress, anxiety, and can feel defined by their condition.

Aoife O’Rourke visits Kilkenny to promote biodiversity pond projects

Photo Credit: Danny Lahart Aoife O’Rourke was the Pond Development Officer for An Taisce’s Legacy4LIFE Ponds for Biodiversity project. It aimed to promote the establishment of a pond network across Ireland as a measure to help reverse biodiversity loss and mitigate climate change.

Aoife is coming to Kilkenny on Thursday, the 10th of July to provide insight on the biodiversity benefits ponds provide to com-

munities and the amenity benefits, including opportunities for recreation, education, improved health and wellbeing.

Aoife will provide visual examples of ponds established across Ireland and speak on the barriers and solutions to integrating ponds into local communities to increase biodiversity.

Location: Mayfair Library, Kilkenny City Date: 10th of July Time: 6.30pm -7.30pm

They experience stigma associated with their condition, social isolation and loneliness and fewer quality friendships. Through the art workshops taking place at our Summer camp, they can build confidence, make

friends, and just have fun.” * Helium Arts’ Summer camp in Kilkenny is now open for registration at https://helium.ie/workshops/kilkenny-summercamp/. The deadline for bookings is Friday, July 11.

Focus Ireland and Bord Gáis Energy have marked a decade of partnership, celebrating the impact of a collaboration that has supported 8,500 families at risk of homelessness across Ireland.

The partnership, hailed by Focus Ireland CEO Pat Dennigan as “an exemplar of how a corporate collaboration can deliver for the charity partner,” provided more than €7.5 million in funding through donations, campaign support, and colleague-led fundraising and matching, with Bord Gáis Energy colleagues also volunteering more than 8,000 hours over the past 10 years.

To mark the milestone, both organisations announced details of their latest collaboration – free hot water for 45 Focus Ireland homes through the installation of EnergyCloud smart devices, fully funded and installed by Bord Gáis Energy.

The homes, in Dungarvan, Co. Waterford and Finglas in Dublin, will receive hot water when surplus renewable energy is available, reducing energy bills and preventing energy waste.

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TB comp caps ‘outdated’ Independent MEP for Ireland South Michael McNamara has called on Minister Martin Heydon and the Department of Agriculture to urgently revise the compensation caps for cattle culled due to TB, warning that the current limits are outdated and leave farmers exposed to major financial losses, adding that the scheme no longer reflects

Kelleher calls for a Govt-backed credit deal Fianna Fáil MEP Billy Kelleher has said that a State-backed Credit Guarantee Scheme to help housing developers bridge the gap in financing should be explored by the Government in order to stimulate house building in the State.

Kelleher, a member of the European Parliament’s Economic and Monetary Affairs (ECON) Committee, has today written to the Competition Commissioner, Teresa Ribera, seeking changes to the current state aid rules to ensure that such a scheme would be permitted.

“Quite simply, the Irish banks are not willing to lend at a sufficient level to small builders to fund house and apartment construction in the country.

“Most banks are only willing to lend up to a maximum of 70% of the cost of development. This is due to the risk management framework in place and the risk appetite of our banks. Consequently, small builders are being asked to provide 30% themselves and, simply put, don’t have access to that amount of money upfront.

“Their only other option is to seek finance on the international markets where interest rates in excess of 12% are being charged. This is what is driving up the cost of development and ultimately house prices in our country,” he said “All of this is making construction not viable for the vast majority of small and medium sized developers - who make up the vast majority of the construction sector in Ireland – resulting in us failing to hit our housing targets.”

He said if we could reduce the cost of finance, we should see two things happening – more housing being built, and more housing being built at reduced prices.

“No one is saying that builders shouldn’t be asked to provide some form of minimum equity when seeking credit. However, equity of 30% is just too high for the majority of small builders.”

the reality of today’s market.

“Farmers are facing losses into the thousands on highvalue animals culled through no fault of their own. The €3,000 cap was agreed in a different era, but as the market has moved, so must the compensation scheme,” said McNamara He noted recent calls from farming organisations in-

Students from St Mary’s Thomastown in Kilkenny travelled to Microsoft’s Dublin Campus to showcase the projects they’d been working on for the third annual Microsoft Dream Space Showcase.

Held over three days at Microsoft’s Dublin campus, and supported by three additional regional showcase events, the initiative saw more than 800 students present over 110 innovative projects, providing inspiring solutions to many of today’s environmental, health, wellbeing, and accessibility challenges.

From earthquake sensors and plant health monitors to food waste trackers and inclusive communication tools, the projects reflect a wide range of creative, impactful ideas developed by the next generation of STEM leaders.

Launched in 2018, Microsoft Dream Space was designed to provide young people with an opportunity to participate in immersive, research-based STEM experiences to enhance their STEM skills and shift their perceptions about the role technology can play in their future careers. Delivered through a mix of in-person, virtual, on-demand, and community-based programmes,, Microsoft Dream Space is providing every primary and post-primary student*, as well as their teachers, across the island of Ireland with the opportunity to engage in STEM and AI learning experiences that will equip them with the skills that are required to fully participate in the era of

cluding the IFA, ICMSA and ICSA, who have warned that the compensation system is no longer fair or sustainable.

The Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers’ Association (ICSA) has proposed raising the standard cap to €5,000 and the pedigree cap to €7,000 to better reflect market values.

He also raised concerns over inconsistent valuations

and implementation across different Regional Veterinary Offices, urging a more standardised national approach.

“At a time when farmers are being asked to do more for animal health, biodiversity, and sustainability, the least the State can do is ensure they are not left out of pocket when TB strikes,” McNamara said. “We need a fair system

that works for today’s market valuations.”

In a letter to Minister Heydon, McNamara called for an immediate review of compensation caps; nationwide consistency in how valuations and compensation are applied by veterinary offices; a scheduled review mechanism; and structured engagement with farming or-

ganisations from the Department.

“Failing to adjust compensation exposes farmers to heavy losses for events outside their control and risks undermining confidence in the TB programme. At a time of record prices, now is the moment to ensure the system remains fair, sustainable, and credible,” the MEP said.

Students Dream about the future of science Artificial Intelligence (AI).

Since the first event in 2023, student participation in the Microsoft Dream Space Showcase has grown significantly, with a near 200% increase in project submissions highlighting the growing enthusiasm among this young cohort to apply their STEM and AI knowledge in creative and impactful ways.

As part of the initiative, students embark on a yearlong learning journey that

combines in-class activities, digital resources, and inperson programme engagement. Using content from three Dream Space TV series – Full STEAM Ahead, Code Green, and brAIn_waves – students develop skills in coding, computational thinking, sustainability, and AI, laying the groundwork for their participation in the Showcase.

From climate action to inclusive design, the projects presented at the Showcase

address key challenges linked to the UN Global Goals, demonstrating how technology and creativity can come together to drive positive change.

James O’Connor, Microsoft Ireland Site Leader and Corporate Vice-President Microsoft Global Operations Service Centre, said: “ The Dream Space Showcase is a powerful reflection of what’s possible when students are given the skills and confidence to explore STEM and

AI. This year’s event brought together hundreds of young innovators who used these skills to tackle real-world challenges. Their projects show that the next generation is not just ready to participate in the digital world – they are ready to shape it.” * Pictured from left, Sadie, Liv, Aadison and Íomhar from St Mary’s National School, Thomastown at the Microsoft Dream Space Showcase

Campervans: ‘Ban them or cater for them’ Ireland South MEP Cynthia Ní Mhurchú, a leading member of the EU Tourism Taskforce, has called on local authorities across Ireland to grant more planning permissions for facilities for campervans or invest in municipal campervan parks where no private facilities exist.

Ní Mhurchú has accused local authorities of putting their head in the sand when

it comes to the regulation of, and opportunity provided by, camper van tourism.

Ní Mhurchú says that Ireland is way behind the rest of Europe when it comes to facilities for campervans. According to Ní Mhurchú, it is leading to a situation where campervans are parking illegally by our beaches and in public car parks annoying local residents in our coastal commu-

nities and causing friction.

“I would like to see more planning permissions given to camping and caravan parks and more supports for private existing campsites.

Where no private facilities exist, local authorities should invest in modern basic facilities for campervan tourists that will allow them to dispose of waste, have showers, get water and power. Charge them a small

fee for using these municipal camper van parks and reinvest that money back into the park.”

According to Ní Mhurchú, illegally parked campervans are an eyesore at our beaches.

“Where are those campervans dumping their waste, grey water, sewerage and where are they getting water and sanitation?

“Camper van tourists

spend money in the local restaurant, the local shop and buy groceries in the local supermarket. They are a valuable part of our tourism offering and we should have specific facilities that they can use and stay in the area,” she said.

Ní Mhurchú will raise the issue with EU Tourism chief, EU Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas when she meets with him in July.

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Opinion

The Fact Of The Matter Paul Hopkins

Thunberg and fighting: holding out for a hero When some years back the Swedish activist Greta Thunberg came to prominence with her stance – and visible outrage – on our lack of care for climate, few of us, bar her young, fellow travellers, took notice. Climate change seemed far off back then.

When Thunberg recently took on the plight of the people of Gaza, the world sat up and followed the sailing of her ship to the Palestinian lands. The 22-year-old was one of a dozen aboard the British yacht Madleen which set sail on a mission to break up Israel’s blockade to Gaza.

Israel intervened illegally and the yacht was forced to turn back.

Some see her as a manipulated Instagramist and point nastily to her mild autism but for most Greta Thunberg has captured our imagination. The world always holds out for a hero. Why?

We come into the world confronted by what philosopher William James famously called “a blooming buzzing confusion” and we must somehow organise such chaos into a reasonably stable personal world. And, as Carl Jung so well understood, our Self must deal not only with external challenges but also the challenges that come “from inside us” – something which Thunberg has alluded to.

Some argue we are born heroic or weak. I don’t hold with that. I believe we are all born with the tremendous capacity to be anything – cue, young Greta – but we get shaped by our circumstances — by the family or the culture or the time in which we grow up, whether in a war zone or peaceful times, in poverty rather than prosperity.

Born in Stockholm, Thunberg’s climate activism

began when she persuaded her parents to adopt lifestyle choices that would reduce carbon footprint.

In August 2018, aged 15, she began skipping school, vowing to remain out of classes until after a Swedish election – an attempt to influence the outcome.

After the election, Thunberg spoke in front of supporters, telling them to use phones to film her. She would continue school striking every Friday until Sweden complied with the Paris Climate Agreement.

Thunberg’s youth and blunt speaking manner fuelled her rise to the status of, arguably, a global icon.

To paraphrase George Bernard Shaw, every reasonable man and woman is a potential hero or potentially the opposite. Such depends upon nurture and character – and Greta has a good CV on that – while what he or

she does and what we think of what they do depends on circumstance.

We humans are intrinsically tough and resilient.

The unique evolutionary path we have taken relies predominantly on learning, openness, flexibility, and adaptability. We survive, thrive even, in every conceivable environment. We have created a bewildering variety of social and cultural realities, where we endlessly experiment and reinvent ourselves. That creates individual character; which sets Greta Thunberg and her ilk apart. Not everyone has it in them to be a hero.

Human resilience comes to the fore when we are faced with extreme situations.

Thunberg came through triumphantly when the Israelis bombarded her ‘mission’ ship, with the voyagers’ gestures symbolic and practical, their spirits unbroken.

“No mission is more dangerous than the entire silence of the world,” she said.

Compassion, like Greta Thunberg’s, is natural and no gender differences have emerged across numerous studies. But that doesn’t mean that men and women experience or express compassion in the same way — and that’s where the science gets interesting. We might just be conditioned to seeing compassion through a feminine lens, and so miss the ways in which men try to alleviate suffering, the debilitating attempts of such we are seeing in Gaza and elsewhere.

In a study of human kindness by psychologist Dacher Keltner, published in the New York Times, participants were asked to communicate different emotions by touching another participant’s hand. They were also asked to guess

what emotion was being communicated when their partner touched their hand.

The participants could not see each but guessed each other’s emotion simply through a touch of the hand. When both partners were men, the odds of them guessing that the emotion being communicated was sympathy was no greater than mere chance.

When at least one of the participants was a woman, however, participants were more accurate. Since sympathy is seen as a more “feminine” trait more acceptable for women to express, women may have learned to both communicate and recognise it more easily.

You can see that in the carefully considered comments and the body language of Greta Thunberg.

We may well have a hero for our time...

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Call alert to phone use on holidays abroad Irish holidaymakers setting off abroad this summer are being urged to put their phones away or risk fines, embarrassment, and even legal trouble, as a growing number of countries crack down on public phone use.

According to Brenda Beltrán, a travel expert at Dublin-based eSim provider Holafly, what’s perfectly normal in Ireland, like checking Google Maps or

sending a quick voice note, can be frowned upon or banned entirely in other parts of the world.

“People think using their phone abroad is harmless, but in some places, it’s considered rude, disruptive, or even illegal,” says Brenda.

“Travellers can be fined simply for using their phones while walking near roads or for taking selfies in prohibited

Bill to give more autonomy to disabled

A new Bill empowering people with disabilities is being debated in the Seanad.

Senator Tom Clonan’s Bill will give people with disabilities more autonomy over the support services they’ll receive and it will grant people with disabilities the power to set personalised budgets. The Minister for Children, Disability and Equality, Norma Foley, is expected to be in attendance.

The Disability (Personalised Budgets) Bill 2024 will amend and extend the Disability Act of 2005 to introduce personalised budgets on a permanent basis. A Personalised Budget is an amount of funding for an eligible person with a disability, so that the individual can make their own arrangements to meet specified support needs, as opposed to having their needs met directly for them by a service provider contracted by the State.

The Bill was previously introduced in the last Seanad and was sponsored by 27 of the 60 Senators, including several senior government senators. The Bill was introduced at First Stage by Senator Clonan [pcctured] and will be debated at Second Stage.

The concept of personalised budgets is supported by a range of organisations including, The National Disability Authority, Inclusion Ireland, Independent Living Movement Ireland, National Federation of Voluntary Service Providers, Mental Health Reform, National Disability Services Association and the Disability Federation of Ireland.

The introduction of Personalised Budgets on a permanent basis would be adhering to Ireland’s obligations under the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD), in particular, Article 19 – living independently and being included in the community.

Senator Clonan said the Bill would give “control and autonomy to the disabled citizen to manage their own budget, as it were, so they would have the legal right to what’s set out in their assessment of need, but it also takes the control away from the HSE or from for-profit service providers”.

In 2022, the Personalised Budget programme was piloted, due to the success of the pilot it was extended and the number of participants allowed to take part was increased.

areas. The rules are changing quickly, and people need to stay informed.”

• Japan: Talking on your phone on public transport is socially unacceptable and many trains ask passengers to switch their phones to do-not-disturb mode (silent) and avoid calls entirely.

• Italy (Lake Como region): Some towns have introduced fines for phone use while walking, claiming it's a safety

issue and distraction for tourists.

• United Arab Emirates: Filming strangers, especially locals, without consent, can lead to arrest under privacy laws.

• France and Spain: Using your phone while driving or even idling at traffic lights can lead to on-the-spot fines of up to €1,000.

• Temples and sacred sites

across Asia: Phone use, even for photos, is often banned or considered disrespectful.

“You wouldn't light up a cigarette in a church, so don’t assume it’s fine to film or FaceTime in a sacred temple,” says Brenda.

“Checking a text might seem harmless, but in some cultures, it’s seen as disrespectful or distracting.

"At worst, it could lead to a

fine or being removed from a site entirely.”

• Know before you go: Google “[country name] phone laws” before travelling • Switch to silent mode in public transport and cultural spaces • Avoid filming strangers or staff - especially in markets, airports or religious sites • Use hands-free or car-safe mounts if driving abroad

Minister of State Marian Harkin with. from left, Maria Riordan, Manager at the Adult Literacy for Life (ALL) programme office at SOLAS, Yvonne McKenna, Director of the Manager at ALL programme office at SOLAS and Nessa White, Executive Director of Transformation at SOLAS PHOTO: Maxwell’s

Funds for local literacy projects The allocation of more than €7,000 to fund innovative projects in Kilkenny and Carlow supporting adults with unmet literacy needs, has been announced by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science James Lawless and Minister of State Marian Harkin announced Some of the projects receiving funding from SOLAS through the Collaboration and Innovation Fund include: • The ‘Leap into Literacy' initiative: This project trains volunteer tutors who will partner with adults with unmet literacy needs to recruit, train, mentor, and work on a one-to-one basis in their local library in Kilkenny.

This will be a first port of call for adults who will then be encouraged to join the local

literacy service. The volunteers will work in the Mayfair and Loughboy libraries, and aims to reduce access barriers to literacy adults.

• The ‘Hug Your Book at Droichead Family Resource Centre’ initiative: A community-driven literacy programme designed to bring children, parents, and positive role models together in a nurturing environment, fostering a love for reading and reinforcing essential literacy skills.

• The ‘From Seed to Feed’ initiative: A 12 week class which will help to develop literacy, numeracy and digital literacy skills of adult learners through gardening, nature journaling and cooking.

Speaking at the event, Minister Harkin said: “I am delighted to see funding awarded to these

innovative projects and partnerships in counties Kilkenny and Carlow that are supporting people to access the vital literacy services they need, helping us to work towards a more inclusive and equal society in Ireland.

"One in five adults in Ireland, aged between 16-65, are at or below Level 1 in literacy, meaning they struggle with reading and understanding everyday text.

Initiatives such as the Collaboration and Innovation Fund provide critical investment to communities across Ireland, supporting projects and activities that enable adults to gain the necessary literacy, numeracy, digital skills, and financial literacy they need to fully engage in society and realise their potential.

“Literacy is fundamental to both personal empowerment

and economic participation," he said.

The Collaboration and Innovation Fund is managed by the Adult Literacy for Life (ALL) National Programme Office in SOLAS. This year the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) contributed €250,000 towards a financial literacy strand of the fund.

Helen Walsh, Regional Literacy Co-ordinator at Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board, said: “The fund helps community partners across Kilkenny and Carlow to come together and deliver innovative solutions to drive positive literacy outcomes for people in our local area. I am delighted to see three innovative projects receive support to help address literacy needs in Kilkenny and Carlow."

VHI marks 25 years – and 600 job – in Kilkenny VHI is celebrating 25 years of operations at its Kilkenny Business Centre. This marks a major milestone in the company’s growth in the region and the vital role played by the Kilkenny team, who support VHI members.

VHI has more than 1.2 million health insurance members, and 500,000 members across the company’s suite of diversified insurance offerings includ-

ing travel, dental and life.

More than 600 people work at the Kilkenny Business Centre, with over half working in Customer Care.

In 2024 alone, the awardwinning customer care team in Kilkenny engaged with VHI members on over 1.2 million calls, supporting members so they can connect with the right care at the right time. The Business Centre in Kilkenny

is also a trusted hub for VHI’s Claims Management Department. In 2024, VHI paid over one million claims directly to members in addition to claims paid to healthcare partners and providers, amounting to total claims paid of €1.74 billion to meet their member healthcare needs.

VHI Kilkenny is part of the organisation’s wider national network of 2,000 employees

across Kilkenny, Dublin, Limerick, Galway, Cork, and Donegal, including over 400 clinical professionals within VHI Health & Wellbeing.

The growth of the Kilkenny Business Centre over the past 25 years, reflects VHI’s evolution from a health insurance provider to an integrated healthcare company focused on supporting VHI’s members’ health and wellbeing.

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The award-winning Ballykeeffe Amphitheatre in Kilmanagh, Co. Kilkenny, is celebrating its 25th Anniversary this year

Funding boost for toddler groups

Book your tickets before they're gone!

Kicking off this year’s event series, we’re thrilled to welcome Rebecca O’Connor as Tina Turner as she brings the electrifying energy of Tina to the Ballykeeffe Amphitheatre stage. Rebecca O’Connor will set the stage ablaze with a highoctane tribute to the Queen of Rock 'n' Roll.

Her powerhouse vocals and magnetic stage presence make this more than a tribute, it’s a celebration of Tina’s indomitable spirit. Even Tina Turner herself said "Rebecca is so good, it's scary." Don’t miss your chance to sing, dance, and feel the power of Rebecca O’Connor’s Simply The Best World Tour, a night you’ll never forget!

BIIRD, the all-female trad supergroup that’s swooping in and stealing hearts all over Ireland and beyond, having just completed a fully soldout tour including Vicar St.! Brought together by a love of Irish music and bonded by friendship, these talented women light up every stage with their electric energy and infectious joy. When BIIRD takes flight in Ballykeeffe, expect soaring tunes, big feels, and serious craic. Playing together this sisterhood exude true joy, love and authenticity and will leave you feeling empowered and proud to be Irish!

Ballykeeffe Amphitheatre will also play host to Contemporary Irish folk group Onóir. A night not to be missed as they put their unique stamp on the timeless ballads and folk songs that we all love. Be prepared for a few pleasant surprises as they delve into heart rending soul and a little bit of country. In addition to top quality vocals there’s going to be some fun and laughter along the way.

Back by popular demand, this year will see the welcome return of ABBAesque, following a hugely successful gig in 2023, for what’s sure to be another lively night. Their success over the

BY JOHN MCGUINNESS - TD

past 28 years has been phenomenal, performing in excess of 150 sell out concerts each year.

The Highstool Prophets are tearing up the Irish folk scene and showing no signs of slowing down! With sold-out shows, radio waves buzzing, and fresh tunes dropping, this rip-roaring bunch is heading to Ballykeeffe Amphitheatre this August and the excitement is real.

Get ready for a foot-stomping, crowd-singing, high-energy night packed with beloved folk anthems, trad tunes with a twist, and the kind of magic only The Highstool Prophets can bring.

To cap off a fantastic summer of music, we will also be holding an event to mark Ballykeeffe Amphitheatre’s 25th Anniversary. Details to be announced soon.

Nestled at the foot of the old Ballykeeffe Quarry, Ballykeeffe Amphitheatre, which is run entirely by volunteers, brings the authentic atmosphere of an open-air Italian theatre to the quaint Kilkenny countryside.

See www.ballykeeffeamphitheatre.com for ticket information

Leas Cheann Comhairle, Deputy John McGuinness, is pleased to announce that Minister for Education, Norma Foley, has committed funding to support Parent and Toddler groups across the country.

These local groups play a vital role in our communities by offering care, support, and guidance to both parents and their young children during important early years of development.

Parent and Toddler groups provide a welcoming space where families can come together, build friendships, and share experiences. They create opportunities for parents to connect, exchange advice, and feel supported in their parenting journey. For children, these groups offer valuable social interaction, helping them develop early social skills in a safe and nurturing environment.

This funding is a recognition of the important work these groups do at a grassroots level and the positive impact they

have on community wellbeing. It will help ensure the continuity and growth of these services, making them more accessible to families who need them.

Deputy McGuinness welcomes this initiative and acknowledges Minister Foley’s commitment to strengthening families and communities. He encourages all eligible Parent and Toddler groups to apply for funding and continue the essential work they do for parents and children throughout Ireland.

The funding can be used for a variety of purposes including children’s toys, equipment and books as well as children’s refreshments and snacks. It can also be used for children’s activities such as arts and crafts and music. Parents can also be supported with parenting courses and courses in first aid for children.

This initiative is part of First 5, the Whole of Government Strategy for Babies, Young Children and their Families. In February, the Minister announced that funding of €350,000 had been secured, which was an increase of €100,000 on last year’s allocation.

Breakdown of the Parent and Toddler grants for Kilkenny are listed below

Droichead

€1,100

Millenium Court Parent and Toddler Group

€800

Mooncoin Parent and Toddler Group

€800

Play and Praise

€990

Cuidiu Kilkenny

€800

The Rower Inistioge Parent and Toddler Group

€800

Cuidiu Mullinavat

€1,000

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The Kilkenny Observer 27th June 2025

kilkennyobserver.ie

Opinion

As I See It Marianne Heron

Murder: no end to the grip of whodunits “I was neat, clean, shaved and sober, and I didn’t care who knew it. I was everything the well-dressed private detective ought to be. I was calling on four million dollars.”

Hard to resist opening lines like that. Before they know it readers are hooked in the page-turning grip of Raymond Chandler’s classic The Big Sleep. And they just know that tough LA detective Philip Marlow will solve the crime.

Our fascination with ‘whodunits’ supports a multibillion industry in books, films, TV programmes and this week yet another crime series launched with BBC Two’s Murder24/7 which follows detectives as they investigate murders.

Courses on how to write a best-selling murder mystery advise on making life difficult for the main character and having the right setting. Hard to beat the dreaming spires of Oxford in Inspector Morse’s TV series or Venice where

author Donna Leon’s Commissario Brunetti investigates amid the glorious city’s maze of canals.

In real life, while the majority of perpetrators are brought to justice, detectives don’t always get the same results as their fictional counterparts, despite the advances in forensics, DNA testing, technical surveillance and data analysis.

False leads, bias and the absence of a body in missing, presumed murdered cases where the time and cause of death can be established and sometimes failure to apply what Agatha Christie’s Hercule Poirot calls “the little grey cells” may play a part.

These unsolved crimes can exert endless speculation and may be revisited in cold case scenarios. Initially the case of American Annie McCarrick, missing since 1993, was thought to be connected with a serial killer of other women who went missing in the Vanishing Triangle in the ‘90s.

Later recommendations that the case be upgraded to murder allowing increased resources on the case were finally acted on in 2023. Investigations are ongoing amid speculation that the motive for Annie’s murder was jealous rage over a romantic rival.

In the Tina Satchwell case, where she was reported missing in 2017, no conclusion was reached in the initial investigation. When the case was reopened in 2023 her body was found, thanks partly to the use of a cadaver dog, under the stairs where her husband Richard had buried her in the couple’s Youghal home. Satchwell was found guilty of murdering his wife last month and later sentenced to life imprisonment. The handling of the Satchwell case together with the macabre case of murdered Kerry farmer Thomas Gaine, originally thought to be missing, whose dismembered remains were only discovered

weeks into the investigation in sprayed slurry, are to be reviewed.

In the light of the above it may not be entirely co-incidental that it was announced

“These unsolved crimes can exert endless speculation...

last week that the Gardai have decided not to upgrade any further unresolved missing persons’ cases to murder. The reviews of two other cases – Fiona Pender from Tullamore reported missing in 1996 when seven and a half months pregnant and Elizabeth Clarke from Navan, a mother of two reported missing 10 years ago – where extensive searches and excavations have taken place, have not resulted in discovery of their bodies or arrests.

The case of missing six year old Kyran Durnin remains unsolved .Unless new information or evidence arises, cases like those of missing Philip Cairns (1986) and Trevor Deely (2000) more resources won’t be devoted to them. We may never know what happened to them.

Fascination with unresolved murders simply refuses to die away in some instances. The notoriety of the Toscan du Plantier case is helped by its

L-Theanine

CLAIR WHITTY L-Theanine is a buzz word, everyone is talking about it. L-Theanine is a naturally occurring amino acid most commonly found in tea especially green tea. Its main benefits are to help reduce stress and anxiety, and at the same time improve focus and attention. It may help to improve sleep by promoting relaxation before bedtime. Some of you might remember the Lyons Tea advert that highlighted the calming yet focus-enhancing properties of their tea.

The advert emphasised how the tea could “promotes a

state of relaxed alertness,” that sounds great doesn’t it? And that is exactly what many people use it for, relaxation with focus.

L-Theanine is an ideal supplement to consider when you need help to deal with stressful situations. The stress could be at home, in work, school, or college. It can be useful for when you simply cannot focus due to so many thoughts going around in your head or your head simply feels full. It can aid sleep by supporting relaxation and calming the mind. These are just a few examples of how L-Theanine might help you.

You can take L-Theanine by itself in supplement form. Most brands will

blockbuster ingredients.

Parisienne Sophie was beautiful, a talented TV producer, her brutal murder took place in mysterious circumstances at her holiday cottage in scenic Toormore in West Cork with saturnine outsider Ian Bailey as the chief suspect.

Although Bailey,who died last year of a heart attack, was never charged here, he was found guilty in absentia in France.

Now in the wake of Jim Sheridan’s documentary Murder At The Cottage, Netflix’s series A Murder In West Cork, books and numerous articles, Jim Sheridan has now made a film re-creation.

It’s time to let her rest in peace .Whether or not the film offers any new insights, we will probably never know who dunit.

Justice delayed may be justice denied, but justice undelivered can be seen as a failure and as a torment for the families of victims. recommend up to 400mg per day. If you already take Magnesium, B Vitamins or fish oils it will work perfectly well with any of these, they would all complement each other. There are several supplements that contain a mixture of ingredients this will vary depending on whether they are targeting stress/anxiety or sleep.

For example, if you want to improve the quality of your sleep then I would look at New Nordic Melissa Dream. It combines Magnesium, Chamomile, and B vitamins with Green Tea (standardised to 30% Ltheanine) and Lemon Balm which helps to find sleep, to help you switch off your busy/frazzled mind and support relaxation so you can get off to sleep faster. It doesn’t cause drowsiness, in fact it should help you to be more alert and focussed the next day.

If you need something for stress/anxiety or a busy mind then take a look at Higher Nature Balance for Nerves. It contains L-Theanine, Magnesium, and B Vitamins but this one also includes the relaxing herb Passiflora/Passion Fruit which is an amazing herb to support relaxation and has a lovely calming effect.

Find peace today with LTheanine

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

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News Cleveland Mike

Emma White

Join us for Dance for Enable Ireland, a fundraiser in support of the O’Neill Centre, taking place next Saturday, June 28th at the Set Theatre.

This exciting night will feature a lineup of talented DJs spinning the best in house

Dance Night Fundraiser for Enable Ireland

and progressive music. All proceeds go directly to Enable Ireland’s O’Neill Centre, helping provide vital services to children and adults with disabilities. Come dance the night away for a great cause— good music, good vibes, and

a meaningful impact. Doors open at 8 PM. Don’t miss this unforgettable night of music, community, and support. See you on the dance floor!

Emma J White, a dynamic DJ and producer since 2005, has gained recognition

for her unique energy and eclectic sets. She started her career with a residency at London's heaven and has since played in renowned clubs worldwide, including Dabric, Ministry of Sound, and Borabora in Ibiza, and

Swiss

she was the first woman to perform on a Saturday night at Red&Blue Nightclub in Belgium.

Swiss, aka Shane Tobler is a DJ, producer and owner of crossroads recording studio in Kilkenny. Home to a wall of boutique analog gear and a vinyl cutting lathe. His love for analog sound is very noticeable not only in his music but also in his vinyl-only DJ sets. Expect lots of funk, soul, disco, house and everything in between.

We saw the rise of a new DJ in Kilkenny, in 2006 with DJ Amos. Amos took the country by storm! DJ Amos loves to travel, playing to large crowds with his music.

He would be considered one of Ireland's most popular disabled DJ’s. In 2008, Improve Your Groove was established as a label for DJ Amos to promote him even further, and luckily enough, it is still growing to this day!

GRL is the passion project of established techno DJ Cailín. As GRL she expresses her roots in house music and shares another side of herself

GRL

DJ Amos

artistically via her record collection and hardware productions. Cailín’s GRL alias has enjoyed success since its conception with headline club gigs and appearances at festivals such as All Together Now, Éalú le Grá, District 8 in the Garden and Fuinneamh.

Cleveland Mike: promoter, artist manager and DJ with over 25 years of experience in the music industry. As a DJ he always brings a diverse selection of quality vinyl to keep the energy alive at parties. Mike's flair and deep knowledge of music ignite the crowd, introducing people to tracks that are rarely heard on the dance floor.

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The Kilkenny Observer 27th June 2025

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News Irish shoppers are paying record prices in the supermarket for agricultural produce like beef, milk and butter. As the country records sharpest rate of increase in such produce prices in the EU in the first quarter of this year, the bloc’s statistical agency Eurostat has said.

Irish agricultural prices were up a whopping 19.3% compared with the same period last year., while the average increase across the EU was just 2.6%.

With prices in Irish supermarkets for beef, milk and butter all rising fast – 2 litres of milk, for example, was up 27c in a year in May – it’s another example of the pressure on Irish consumers.

Eurostat data just released shows Ireland is the second most expensive country in the EU, after Denmark, taking into account a plethora of household costs including housing, transport, energy and clothing, as well as food.

Ireland also topped the table as the most expensive country in which to drink or smoke.

So why are farm-produced foods – staples of our grocery baskets and the cornerstone of the food industry – increasing in price so rapidly?

Agricultural economists say there are a number of reasons.

The rise in milk prices across the EU – 12.6% on average – will skew Ireland’s figure upwards, given the dairy sector’s centrality to the total value of the agriculture sector in Ireland.

Julian Worley, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Galway, pointed out that Ireland also doesn’t produce many items in the categories where prices fell – olive oil for example. Across Europe, potato prices also fell, while prices for eggs and cereals rose.

Worley said that prices were probably being driven up by chaos in world markets, including the uncertainty caused by US trade war threats and tariffs. Most Irish dairy was exported.

Last year was also a tough year for production weatherwise, and the resulting increase in costs is reflected in prices.

A UCD research scientist has said that a new drug that far outperforms competitors such as Ozempic for the treatment of obesity shows, in trials, patients losing up to 15% of their excess weight.

The findings about the new medicine, called CagriSema, were announced in Chicago at the 85th Scientific Sessions of the American Diabetes Association.

“The Redefine 2 study showed that CagriSema, a new treatment in development for the disease of obesity, can allow patients with type 2 diabetes to lose 15pc body weight, while putting their blood sugar levels back in the normal range,” said Professor Carel Le Roux, a leading weight-loss researcher at the

Why we’re paying top rate for Irish produce at the checkout

Tadhg Buckley, chief economist at the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA), said the recent increase in Irish food prices needed to be considered in a wider context: over a longer-term horizon such as the past 20 years, food price growth has significantly been lower than general inflation. The Irish shopper had become accustomed to relatively cheap food.

Buckley said that, while it was true that Irish agricultural prices had increased faster than in the rest of the EU, in absolute terms, farm-gate milk prices remained slightly below the EU average. Farm-

gate prices are the prices farmers receive.

Supply and demand are also at play. There was a reduction of over 200,000 in the number of cows in Ireland in the year to December 2024, with the decrease more pronounced in beef herds. At the same time, a wider shortage of supply across the UK – the market for around half of Ireland’s beef – and Europe has driven up prices.

Buckley added that price inflation may have slowed since the first-quarter period Eurostat’s figures covered, with farm gate prices for both beef and dairy down slightly

in April and May. Damian O’Reilly, a lecturer in retail management at TU Dublin, said data from market research firm Kantar shows Irish consumers are changing their shopping habits in response to higher prices, in particular by becoming more responsive to deals and offers.

“Let’s say steaks are on offer, [consumers] buy today and maybe put them in the freezer,” O’Reilly said.

“People are shopping more discriminately than they were before. They are more aware of the money they’re spending.

“They’re not buying as much

on impulse as they were.”

He said that this was one of the reasons supermarkets were price matching to their competitors and proclaiming these price matches to customers with in-store labels and marketing.

“I think farmers are seeing a benefit,” Worley said. “But it is coming on the back of higher production costs for several years that were squeezing their margins, as well as a few bad production years when costs were higher.”

“So, it’s a bit of catching back up or catching a breath, rather than a true benefit.”

Buckley, of the IFA, agreed

that, while the price increases would help dairy and beef farmers, for the latter in particular, it’s an increase from a low base.

Next week, agricultural research agency Teagasc will publish its latest data on farmers’ incomes, for 2024.

Buckley expects the data to show an improvement, but will still show that the average farmer is not making that much.

The most recent Teagasc data, for 2023, showed the average dairy farm income was €49,000, while for sheep it was less than €12,000 and for suckler beef just €7,400.

effects are manageable and clinicians are getting much better at reducing common side-effects.

“Taken together, this will allow clinicians to control the disease of obesity, which will allow us to disrupt the disease of type 2 diabetes,” the UCD researcher said.

CagriSema is a combination of cagrilintide and semaglutide.

The latter is marketed under the brands of Ozempic, Wegovy and Rybelsus.

“In a phase-three clinical trial, participants with type 2 diabetes and obesity experienced unprecedented weight loss,” said Prof Le Roux,.

He said that the CagriSema trial “marks a turning point” in weight and diabetes management.

“Many participants expressed joy in regaining abilities that their condition had

previously hindered - playing with grandchildren, tying shoelaces and performing daily activities became accessible once more.”

Prof Le Roux said the treatment involved a weekly injection, which enabled patients to manage their disease and also accommodated healthier lifestyles.

The Redefine trial results offered a “beacon of hope” for people living with type 2 diabetes and obesity, he said, with results that promised to promote not just weight loss, but to enhance people’s quality of life and well-being.

“Patients can look forward to a future where managing diabetes can lead to healthier lifestyles and renewed vitality,” Prof. Le Roux said.

UCD breakthrough in drug for treatment of obesity UCD Conway Institute in Dublin and a principal investigator on the study.

“What patients often tell us is

that they again can do all the things they want because they feel so much more functional.

“We also see that the side-

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Oldcastle Agricultural Show returns with excitement and entertainment for all On Sunday, 20th July, Gilson Park, Oldcastle, Meath will host the 84th Oldcastle Agricultural Show, promising a fun-filled day for all ages. With over 400 competition classes, substantial prize money, live entertainment, and a host of family-friendly attractions, this year’s show is shaping up to be the biggest yet.

Oldcastle Show features some of the largest show rings in Ireland, with an impressive variety of equine classes, including Working and Ridden Hunters, Broodmare and Foal, In-hand Young Stock among few. A special highlight is the Family Riding Pony Ring, offering fun and engaging events for young riders and their ponies.

In the cattle section, exhibitors can compete in classes for commercial cattle, pedigree Limousin, Charolais, Hereford, Aberdeen Angus, and Belgian Blue. The popular Young Stockperson classes promise to impress once again, showcasing the skills and enthusiasm of the next generation of farmers. Cattle weighing takes place between 8:30am and 10am, with judging starting promptly at 10am.

In the sheep Section, purebred classes include Dutch Spotted, Blue Texel, Suffolk, and Charollais. The sheep shearing competitions — now featuring junior, intermediate, and senior classes — will wow the crowds as skilled shearers showcase their speed and precision.

The Best Young Farmer Competition, kindly sponsored by Mead Farm Machinery, returns for 16–21-year-olds, featuring a general agriculture knowledge test and practical challenges in livestock handling and tractor skills, with first prize being €300 and a cup.

Feathers will fly in the beloved Greatest Cockerel of Oldcastle competition. After last year’s record-breaking poultry show, organisers are hoping to see an even bigger

turnout of fabulously feathered entries in 2025! The dog show, kindly sponsored by Cavan Pet Hospital, welcomes canines of all shapes and sizes — from pedigrees to the proudest mutts — with rosettes and prizes galore.

Don’t miss the food and craft village, filled with tasty bites and artisan treats. The show hall will buzz with creative energy.

From turf, jam, cakes, flowers, vegetables, photography, art, handwriting, and much more — there’s something for every age and interest.

Free children’s entertainment is available throughout the day, featuring a pet farm, puppet show, face painting, obstacle courses, and exciting races. The automobile section includes a wide display of vintage tractors, threshing machines, and classic farming equipment — a must-see for history buffs and machinery lovers alike. Special attractions include awe-inspiring birds of prey demonstrations and live wood sculpting by the incredibly talented Joey Burns.

And don’t forget to put your strength to the test in the thrilling Tug O’ War contest.

Enjoy toe-tapping live music in the new music marquee, where Ireland’s biggest wedding band — the incredible Mad Ass Mules — will perform alongside local artists! This year’s jiving competition is sure to keep feet moving and spirits high!

Entries are now open in the cattle, sheep, horse, poultry, and home industry competitions. Full details and entry forms are available at www.oldcastleshow.ie. The closing date for entries is Wednesday, July 17th.

Admission is €10, with children under 12 free. For full event details or to enter competitions, visit www.oldcastleshow.ie or call 087 4152201. Follow the Oldcastle Agricultural Show on Facebook for the latest updates.

Climate Change

– are we all playing our part?

WEEK 124

"Every time I drive I add to the pollution"

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The Kilkenny Observer 27th June 2025

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Opinion

Your Money & You John Ellis

Doing our Green Deal with climate change Ireland continues to do its part in Europe’s push to go green, driven by the EU’s Green Deal which aims to make Europe climate-neutral by 2050. A big part of this is the ‘EU Taxonomy’ which is a rulebook that helps companies and banks decide where to put their money to help the planet.

But how is Ireland doing with this green plan and is it working for everyone?

In 2023, 600 EU companies spent €191 billion on Taxonomy-approved activities rising to €249 billion by May 2024.

Ireland is part of this trend with the banks leading the way. For example, since 2019, AIB has loaned €11.6 billion for green projects like solar farms and 30% of its 2023 lending was green reaching €5.1 billion in 2024 accounting for 35% of AIB’s total new lending.

According to Bank of Ireland they have, through its ‘Green Business Loan’, offered discounted finance to busi-

nesses who want to implement a range of sustainability initiatives to improve their carbon footprint including but not limited to renewable energy projects, clean transportation, green buildings, or

projects that improve energy efficiency.

The Green Deal also supports people through funds like the ‘Just Transition Mechanism’ (a European Union initiative designed to

support regions and communities in transitioning to a climate-neutral economy) which has given Ireland €169 million to help the Midlands hit hard by the end of peat extraction. This money is reskill-

ing workers and funding green projects like restoring peat bogs which store carbon and fight climate change. Ireland’s bogs are vital but only 1% of raised bogs remain due to turf cutting.

The EU has pushed Ireland to protect them even taking legal action in 2024 for not doing enough.

Despite progress Ireland still faces hurdles. The Environmental Protection Agency says Ireland will miss its 2030 target of cutting emissions by 42%, likely achieving only 29%. Sectors like agriculture and transport are over their emissions limits and the country will not meet its carbon budgets.

Farmers especially are struggling with rising costs, though the EU has provided €330 million to help farmers across Europe, including Ireland. Some worry rural communities and workers in old industries like peat might not find green jobs fast enough.

The EU is helping with big investments. Ireland could get up to €13.3 billion from 2021 to 2027 for green projects. This includes €275 billion from “Next Generation EU” (a blueprint for a new growth model based on a clean innovative and inclusive economy and digital and tech sovereignty) for clean energy and better buildings which has saved enough energy to power millions of homes. In 2023 wind power overtook gas in Europe and Ireland has recently become coal-free.

Irish businesses are stepping up and companies following the Taxonomy do better financially with stronger stock market performance. If Ireland can balance support for workers and farmers with more green investments it could stand out as part of Europe’s cleaner fairer future. john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633

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The Kilkenny Observer 27th June 2025

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News Science & Wellbeing

By Vincent Ho -----------------------------If you’ve got a dodgy tummy, diarrhoea and have been vomiting, it’s easy to blame a ‘tummy bug’ or ‘off food’.

But which is it? Gastro or food poisoning? What’s the difference anyway?

Gastroenteritis, or gastro for short, is a gut infection caused by a virus, bacterium, or other microbe.

The gut is teeming with cells including healthy microbes and the cells lining the gut. But when viruses, bacteria, and other microbes start to invade your gut, they colonise, build up in large numbers and eventually cause the cells lining the gut to inflame.

The ‘-itis’ at the end of gastroenteritis means inflammation.

Gastroenteritis is extremely common. Noroviruses can cause gastroenteritis by replicating in the gut.

So where do these gastrocausing microbes come from? Eating contaminated food is often the source.

However, you can acquire these microbes in other ways. For example, if you touch a surface where someone sick from viral gastroenteritis had vomited on, that virus could transfer to your hands.

And if your hands touched your mouth, you in turn could contract viral gastroenteritis.

On the other hand, food poisoning refers to getting sick from eating food contaminated with chemicals, microbes, or toxins.

For example if you ate food contaminated with insecticides or methyl alcohol (methanol) that would count as food poisoning.

If you ate puffer fish or poisonous mushrooms that would count too. But food poisoning doesn’t include New research has found that those who use cannabis are twice as likely to die from cardiovascular disease, and are at increased risk of other major adverse cardiovascular events.

Cannabis is being legalised in more and more places worldwide, increasingly for medicinal purposes. It is still illegal in Ireland and the Government has no plans to legalise it.

The researchers, led by a team from the University of Toulouse in France, wanted to look more closely at potential health risks that had previously been flagged.

They looked at 24 previous studies published between 2016 and 2023, involving around 200 million people.

Overall, the increased risk linked to cannabis use was 29% for acute coronary syndrome (reduced blood flow to the heart), 20% for strokes, and 100% for cardiovascular disease mortality.

“The findings reveal positive associations between cannabis use and heart

Is it gastro or food poisoning? the effects of eating a food you’re allergic to.

The vast majority of food poisonings are as a result of food contaminated by microbes and their toxins.

When you eat or drink them it’s like a missile strike.

The toxins in particular can rapidly cause inflammation and damage the lining of the gut. To add to the confu-

sion, food poisoning is often referred to as foodborne gastroenteritis.

So, wow can we tell the two apart?

Both gastroenteritis and

Research links cannabis to heart disease

disease,” write the researchers in their published paper.

“These findings should encourage investigating cannabis use in all patients presenting with serious cardiovascular disorders.”

There are some limitations worth bearing in mind. The studies included in the research differed in terms of how they defined cannabis

use, relied on self-reporting, and didn’t measure use of the drug over time. That makes them less statistically robust.

The research also notes a high risk of bias in the majority of studies investigated, due to the way they were structured.

And it’s important to say the research doesn’t show

direct cause and effect, only an association.

It’s possible that other factors not considered here are driving both cannabis use and heart health issues in certain groups of people.

Nevertheless, the large number of people surveyed on their real-world use of cannabis counts in the study’s favour.

food poisoning have symptoms such as diarrhoea, vomiting, nausea, abdominal cramps, fever, and headaches. But these symptoms can come on in different ways.

Viral gastroenteritis, such as with norovirus, usally causes symptoms 24–48 hours after exposure, which can last for one to two days.

But food poisoning after eating microbial toxins can come on very quickly. For example, toxins from the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus can cause symptoms within 30 minutes of eating contaminated food, such as undercooked meat. Fortunately, symptoms usually get better within 24 hours.

Symptoms don’t always come on so quickly in all cases of bacterial food poisoning. For example, it can take as long as 70 days between exposure to Listeria and symptoms occurring, although, on average it’s about three weeks. This long incubation period can make it difficult to work out if a particular food is responsible for someone getting sick.

Soft cheeses can be a source of Listeria.

As a general guide food poisoning occurs quite quickly (within hours of eating contaminated food) while gastroenteritis can take a day or more after eating to get sick.

But there is no hard and fast rule.

So, how do you prevent them?

The same precautions when handling food apply to preventing both gastroenteritis and food poisoning.

These steps not only lower your risk of being affected in the first place, they lower your risk of you infecting others.

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water It also has more recent data than many other studies, and we know that cannabis use and composition is changing over time. That’s enough to warrant deeper investigation into the possible health risks.

“Legalising the drug and expanding its medical use worldwide have likely contributed to profound changes in the general perception of cannabis and to the overall rise in cannabis consumption,” write the researchers.

“Consequently, users’ profiles and consumption habits profoundly differ from those in the 2010s, especially as cannabis products show an increasing trend in potency, with rising concentrations of delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).”

Further research is absolutely needed, not least to determine whether the chemicals and compounds in cannabis – of which there are hundreds – could be leading to these health risks, and how taking cannabis

before preparing food. Use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw and cooked foods to help avoid crosscontamination. Cook food thoroughly and store it at safe temperatures.

Gastroenteritis can involve transmission of microbes through means other than food, for instance, via poo on your hands if you don’t wash your hands after using the toilet or after changing a child’s nappy. So wash your hands afterwards.

To prevent others from becoming sick, make sure you quickly disinfect contaminated surfaces thoroughly after someone vomits or has diarrhoea. First, put on gloves and wash surfaces with hot water and a detergent. Then disinfect using household bleach containing 0.1% hypochlorite.

Treating both gastroenteritis and food poisoning focuses on preventing dehydration and relieving symptoms.

To avoid dehydration, drink plenty of fluids. For moderate or severe cases, you can buy commercial oral rehydration solution from a pharmacy.

You can also make your own oral rehydration solution by adding six teaspoons of sugar, ½ teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of sodium bicarbonate to a litre of water. You can splash in some cordial for taste.

If symptoms are severe or persist you should see your GP or go to the emergency department. * Vincent Ho is Associate Professor and Clinical Academic Gastroenterologist, Western Sydney University -----------------------------This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license in different forms, such as inhalables or edibles, might have an influence.

Previous studies have already shown how the drug can increase the risk of cancer, and significantly alter our DNA, for example.

Cannabis could also trigger psychosis through the impact it has on the brain.

The new study is accompanied by an editorial written by epidemiologists Stanton Glanz and Lynn Silver, from the University of California San Francisco.

In it, Glanz and Silver argue that as cannabis use rises, more should be done to educate people about the risks – as has been done with cigarettes.

“Specifically, cannabis should be treated like tobacco: not criminalised but discouraged, with protection of bystanders from secondhand exposure,” they write. *The research has been published in the journal Heart

The Kilkenny Observer 27th June 2025

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kilkennyobserver.ie

Travel & Leisure If you’re looking for a destination that has the beauty and charm of a major Italian city without the shoulder-to-shoulder crowds of Rome, Milan is a fantastic pick.

It is stylish and chic and full of gorgeous buildings, historic monuments, and one of the most stunning cathedrals.

And the food? Amazing.

The streets? A mix of dramatic facades, quiet side alleys, and picturesque piazzas. So, what are the amazing places to visit in Milan?

The Duomo The Duomo is one of the most gorgeous cathedrals with a very unique, castlelike design – with spires and pinnacles lining the rooftop.

While the exterior is stunning, the inside is equally so and definitely worth a visit. Inside, you can admire the many traditional Gothic features (such as the pointed arches and the stained glass windows).

The stained glass windows behind the altar at the back of the church are huge – almost floor to ceiling!

The beautiful tiled floor and the interesting glass tombs on display around the perimeter of the church.

You need tickets to enter the church, and need to buy them online in advance.

Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II The Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II is located on the Plaza di Duomo, just next to the cathedral. This absolutely gorgeous openair hall is actually the world’s oldest shopping mall! It was constructed in 1877 and named for the first king of Italy.

The entrance is a tall, grand archway, and inside is a stunning passageway lined with luxury brands and ornate facades. In the centre of the gallery is a large glass dome. You can find all sorts of luxury brands housed in the gallery.

San Bernadino Alle Ossa Church (Aka The Bones) Not even 10 minutes from the Duomo is one of the most unique churches you will ever visit.

The church was constructed in 1754 and built on a former cemetery. While there is a somewhat larger main room in this church, the Ossuary chapel is definitely the main attraction.

Every surface of the Ossuary chapel is ornamented with human bones. (In fact, ossa means bone). Stacks of human bones are packed into the walls, with skulls used to create designs, such as the cross.

Skulls and bones are used as decorative elements on columns, and along the top of the walls. It was fascinating and also a little bit eerie!

Milan: stylish and chic ... and great history Teatro alla Scala The Teatro alla Scala is one of the most famous and important opera houses in Italy, and indeed, is a very prominent opera house in the entire world. This gorgeous, historic theatre was built in 1776 and still does shows today.

This was THE place to see and be seen in the 1700s and 1800s, and observing the other people in the six stories of boxes was as much the point of going to the opera as was seeing the show.

Until the 1920s, families would own their own box, and the cost could be as much as an apartment in Paris. Opera attendance was thus very much a status symbol for the people of Milan.

The opera itself is lovely – chairs and walls are covered in red velvet, gold- leafed decorations adorn surfaces, and an enormous chandelier hangs prominently from the ceiling.

Note, that cisiting hours change every day, and the lights in the theatre itself aren’t always on.

Go Shopping At Milan’s Famed Boutiques The name Milan is synonymous with high-end shopping, and you can find well-known luxury brands and upscale boutiques all

over the city (for example, there are a lot of high-end brands around the Piazza di Duomo).

However, whether you’re ready to do some serious shopping or just want to stroll and window browse, you should absolutely head up to the “shopping district,” which is just a little bit north of the Duomo.

Some of the big streets for shopping in this area are Via Monte Napoleon and Via della Spiga, but just wandering around the area is really fun.

Santa Maria della Grazie + The Last Supper One of Milan’s many claims to fame is housed in this unassuming church on the west side of the city. The church is the Santa Maria della Grazie and the claim to fame: The Last Supper painting by Leonardo da Vinci, painted on the walls of the monastery adjacent to the church.

Painted between 14941498, da Vinci used an experimental technique, where he painted on walls like he would on a canvas, which allowed him to do more shading and threedimensional strokes. This created an incredibly lifelike painting, which was revolutionary for the time period.

Da Vinci really wanted to

capture human emotion and what each person was experiencing as Jesus was saying that one of the apostles would betray Him. The church was partially destroyed during the bombing of WW2, but great pains were taken to prop up and preserve the wall that the painting is on, and you can see the remnants of some of those measures today.

Going on a guided tour to see the painting is an absolute must – you learn so much about the history and backstory, the techniques, and the importance of the painting, and everything that the church and painting have gone through since Leonardo completed the masterpiece.

Sempione Park Sempione Park is central Milan’s largest greenspace, and is a favourite for locals and tourists alike. There are many paths to walk or jog, there are a lot of benches and lawn space, a pond and bridge, peta are welcome, and historical structures like the Arco della Pace and Sforzesco Castle bookend the park.

Sforzesco Castle is an impressive structure and well- preserved and wellrestored.

Today, you can visit a number of museums within

the castle.

On the far side of the park stands the Arco della Pace, or the Arch of Peace. This lovely arch was started in 1807 to honour Napoleon’s victories, but construction was stalled until 1826, when it was completed under the direction of the Austrian Emporer.

It was named the Arch of Peace to honour the peace plans for Europe following the Napoleonic Wars.

While it is fairly amusing that a monument originally meant to honour Napoleon’s victory in Italy was ultimately dedicated to the peace following his defeat, there’s no denying that the arc is a stunning monument.

Naviglio Grande Canal South of the historic centre are two adjoining canals: Naviglio Grande and Naviglio Pavese. You can go ahead and skip Naviglio Pavese – there’s not much going on there – but Naviglio Grande is just delightful.

Walkways line the charming canal, and restaurants spill out onto the sidewalks, overlooking the water. In the evenings, the area really comes alive with people dining, hanging out, and enjoying the night air.

Monumental Cemetery The Monumental Cemetery

is located in the northern part of central Milan, and is a beautiful, large, historic cemetery. It is a must for anyone who wants to get off the beaten path, or who loves old, interesting cemeteries and architecture.

All of the graves are adorned with sculptures or engravings, and many of the tombs had full-on structures erected to hold the graves.

Many of the large structures were designed for families, and you could see that tombs were stacked on each other inside.

Some of the structures were massive and resembled castles or pyramids, and the sculptures on the graves were evocative and poignant.

Brera Neighbourhood Brera is a small but chic neighbourhood near the Monumental Cemetery, and home to several interesting spots. For example, every Tuesday there is an antique market along Via Brera, with a lot of unique things to buy.

Don’t miss the Palazzo Brera, an old palace that today holds the Pinacoteca di Brera art gallery, the Braidense National Library, and the Brera Botanical Garden. The gallery holds fine arts from Italian and foreign painters, and was established by Napoleon himself.

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The Kilkenny Observer 27th June 2025

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Opinion

Furthermore Gerry Moran

Cat gut and the colour of your soul’s aura So, there I was Saturday evening last sitting in the back garden, sunning myself, slugging a bottle of Bud and trying to figure out the colour of my soul’s aura! Trying to what, Gerry? Trying to figure out the colour of my soul’s aura and how that will help me find my life’s true purpose.

And just how many bottles of Bud did you have, Ger? Only the one and bear in mind it’s not every Saturday evening that one can check out the colour of one’s soul’s aura. I could well have watched a match but sure you can watch a match just about every Saturday evening of the year and even if you don’t watch the match you can tune in to the highlights later or you can maybe catch it on catch-up TV. So, no contest, I go for discovering the colour of my soul’s aura. Here’s how this came about. In the Book

Centre I scan, as I always do, the front pages of the dailies and see on the front of the Irish Daily Mail the following blurb: “Quiz that reveals the colour of you soul’s aura and how that will help you find life’s true purpose.”

Now who among us doesn’t want to find our life’s true purpose? I am intrigued to say the least. And purchase the paper. Now I should say that I am no fan of quizzes because, even if I know the answer, it’ll take me two hours, if not two days, to actually retrieve it from the hard-drive of my brain and also I’m not so sure about the existence of a soul. But, I have nothing better to do, the match is recorded, and opening another bottle of Bud, off I go.

The questions are multiple choice ones – I’m told to select the option that best describes me based on my current state (two bottles of

I’m told that I am charming, witty, creative and lively. My passion makes me ready to engage fully in life. I’ll settle for that. Definitely a great quiz, so pleased I took it, a bit of fun combined with a bit of self-reflection. For more on this check out The Aura Colour Wheel by Helen Ye Plehn to be published on July 15 by Hay House, UK.

Bud on an empty stomach) I’m also to pick an answer intuitively and not over think it.

The 10 questions answer, I am about to discover, not my soul’s aura (that’s actually the second quiz that I have to take) but my soul’s archetype ie. what my strengths are. So, I am not a Visionary, not an Entrepreneur, not a Healer, not an Artist, not a Warrior

but an Entertainer: someone who is “enjoyable to be around, genuine and fun-loving who likes to perform for a crowd” and as I’m thinking that I’m some class of a clown I read that teachers and public speakers can be engaging entertainers too.

And I guess that cap fits.

On then to the aura colour of my soul: Chartreuse and

****************************** After all that, a wee quiz that will tell you nothing whatsoever about your soul’s archetype or the colour of its aura – all it will do is annoy you, as it does me, over our dearth of general knowledge. I wouldn’t mind but I’ve given this quiz before and still can’t answer correctly. Mind you it’s not as straight forward as it seems. Be cautioned, it’s tricky. And however badly you do – let it not be souldestroying!

1) How long did the

Hundred Years’ War last?

2) Which country makes Panama hats?

3) From which animal do we get cat gut?

4) In which month do Russians celebrate the October Revolution?

5) What is a camel’s hair brush made of?

6) The Canary Islands in the Pacific are named after what animal?

7) What was King George VI’s first name?

8) What colour is a purple finch?

9) Where are Chinese gooseberries from?

10) What is the colour of the black box in a commercial airplane?

Answers 1) 116 years 2) Ecuador 3) Sheep and Horses 4) November 5) Squirrel fur 6) Dogs 7) Albert 8) Crimson 9) New Zealand 10) Orange

The Kilkenny Observer 27th June 2025

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Opinion

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

Family feuds are unpleasant at the best of times. Once the first blow is struck, hatred, bitterness, and resentment can simmer for years. The eighteenth century witnessed one of Ireland’s most vicious feuds. It arose between the Floods and the Agars, two powerful landed families.

The rift that developed between them had its roots in a power struggle. They became rivals in a battle for the control of Callan Corporation and the town’s two parliamentary seats. At that time, the borough of Callan had the honour of returning two M.P.s; a high level of representation for such a small area.

Born in 1713, James Agar was educated at Trinity College, Dublin. He served as M.P. for Gowran from 1747-60. In 1761, he was elected to represent Callan but his success was short-lived. Henry Flood mounted a challenge by way of petition to his election and unseated him. This was a bitter blow to Agar.

Henry Flood was one of the major political figures of the eighteenth century. He was born at Farmley, Burnchurch in 1732. The village of Burnchurch is about four miles outside Callan. He was educated at Trinity and Oxford.

Flood was first elected to parliament in 1759. In the Irish House of Commons, only the great Henry Grattan equalled his oratorical skill. His chief passion was the cause of Irish independence.

The most dramatic incident in the long-running feud between the Flood and Agar families occurred in 1768. In that year, the Corporation was evenly divided in its support for Flood and Agar. A switch of allegiance by just one member would give control of the Corporation to one or other of the great rivals. And whoever controlled the Corporation could fill Callan’s two seats in parliament.

Both sides resorted to underhand tactics in the pursuit of power. Corruption was rife as bribery and political arm-twisting held sway. Events at the Town Hall spilled over into faction fighting in the streets. Marathon brawls were commonplace in Callan as the Floods and Agars battled for supremacy.

In October of 1768, James Agar received a tantalising

Henry Flood

Gunfight at the Old Triangle Part one

Burnchurch Castle

- The story of a bitter quarrel encompassing Callan, Gowran, and the village of Burnchurch message from his home in Ringwood, Gowran. It was from Francis Knap of Burnchurch, who was Deputy Sovereign (Mayor) of Callan.

He was a loyal supporter and tenant of Henry Flood. Knap promised to divert his vote from Flood to Agar in the forthcoming election if Agar would give him a farm on his estates and specified sum of money.

Intrigued by the offer, Agar invited Knap to come and see him. On the evening of October 28th, the day before the election, Knap’s wife Brigid drove to Callan and met Agar at the Red Lion Inn. She explained that her husband was unable to come but was at his residence and ready to discuss the proposition.

The Innkeeper, Michael Keogh, advised Agar against travelling to Burnchurch. It was in “enemy territory”, he warned, meaning that Flood was the dominant force in the area. Keogh volunteered to go in his place. Agar lent him a pair of pistols to defend himself should he be attacked.

Keogh and Knapp’s wife

drove to Burnchurch in a chaise (a light two-wheeled carriage) with the intention of meeting Knap at this residence.

St Mary's Church, Gowran

When her home came into view, Brigid Knap stopped the carriage.

Ashe told Keogh she wanted

to ensure her husband was alone in the house and that their meeting would not be interrupted. As she walked away,

men armed with muskets and crowbars surrounded the chaise...

To be continued...

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The Kilkenny Observer 27th June 2025

kilkennyobserver.ie

Opinion

Mind and body in harmony

By Paul Bolger

Chartered Physiotherapist at Nano Physiotherapy, Kilkenny | www.nanophysio.ie Is it possible to unlearn pain?

Can we show the body that it is safe and possible to move without suffering? Leading pain scientists think so, and they believe that many people with persistent pain should have hope in their ability to live life less burdened by pain.

Last week we explored how for many with persistent pain issues the body has, in a sense, “learned” to be really good at feeling pain. Changes within the nervous system reflect this – nerve pathways sending signals from the painful area of the body and brain networks associated with pain and distress strengthen and become more easily activated.

A Better Approach Pain scientists have come up with an approach, built upon interventions and theories from psychology, physiotherapy, biology, learning and neuroscience, that they have shown to be highly effective in treating chronic pain problems. The core steps in their framework involve: 1. Rethinking pain and its causes

Rethinking pain

Persistent pain is a major problem – understanding your pain is a key step to recovery 2. Helping the body to move and feel normally 3. Becoming more fit and able for life’s demands Rethinking Pain Education about the science

of pain is step one in the process of recovery.

It’s extremely rare for pain to be a sign of something really serious. For instance, with a common issue like back pain, only a very small percentage

of people will need medical or surgical treatment. Read ‘Back Pain is a Fact of Life’ on the Observer’s website for more about this.

Pain Doesn’t Equal Damage

Understand that pain does not always equal to damage, that the body can become sensitive and “learn” how to be really good at feeling pain (read ‘Learning to Feel Pain’ on the Observer’s website for more).

In phantom limb pain, a person who had their leg amputated may feel extreme pain in the big toe of the foot that is no longer there! It’s also possible to experience little pain despite massive damage – Bethany Hamilton, retired pro-surfer, had her arm bitten off by a shark when she was 13. She recalls feeling no pain at the time.

Many Factors Influence Pain Understand how things like sleep, stress, our own thoughts and our previous experiences can all contribute to how pain feels at any given moment (for more details, read ‘Pain – What Matters?’, ‘Stress, Pain & The Brain’, ‘Stress & Your Pain System’).

With thought, reflection and experimentation, people can figure out what factors might be turning up the volume on their pain.

Living Things Adapt Understand that we can adapt when we expose ourselves gradually to something new.

If the body can adapt to become really good at feeling pain, it’s possible to adapt in the other direction too. Like anything learned, time and consistency are key.

Taking the next step For anyone who wants to know more on any of the above, there is a fantastic, engaging website called Flippin’ Pain - www. flippinpain.co.uk.

This website is full of fantastic information from leading pain experts. It contains stories from people who have been living with persistent pain and links to free online programmes designed to help people suffering from persistent pain.

Next week we will explore the next step in the process towards recovery - helping the body to move and feel normally again. If you suffer from persistent pain, maybe you could bring up something you learned here with your GP or a physiotherapist.

The Kilkenny Observer 27th June 2025

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Advertisement

Kilkenny County Council to celebrate Your Council Day 2025 Friday, 27 June Theme: Building Stronger Communities Kilkenny County Council will join local authorities across Ireland on Friday, 27 June to mark Your Council Day, a national campaign promoting the vital work of City and County Councils and the people behind the services that support our communities every day.

Coordinated by the Local Government Management Agency (LGMA) and supported by all 31 local authorities, Your Council Day is an opportunity to showcase the wide range of services and facilities Councils provide - from community spaces and planning to local democracy and economic development.

This year’s theme, Building Stronger Communities, highlights how local authorities foster environments where people feel connected, supported, and empowered to thrive.

As part of the day, Kilkenny County Council will:

• Share a variety of content on our social media platforms, including Facebook, Instagram, and Linkedln, starting on Monday 23 June and continuing through Your Council Day on 27 June.

• Provide insights into the Council’s role in building strong communities across Kilkenny City and County.

The public is encouraged to follow the day’s events by: • Keeping an eye on Kilkenny County Council’s social media platforms: Facebook @ Kilkenny County Council, Instagram @kilkennycoco, LinkedIn @ Kilkenny County Council for updates and content starting from Monday, 23 June.

• Engage with posts by liking, sharing, and commenting to show support.

• Join the conversation online using the hashtags #YourCouncilDay and #DoLáSaChomhairle.

“Your Council Day is a valuable opportunity to

highlight the wide range of services provided by Kilkenny County Council and to recognise the vital role we play in supporting everyday life across Kilkenny City and County” said Lar Power, Chief Executive. “This year’s theme, Building Stronger Communities, highlights what is integral to local government. We deliver over 1,000 vital services that touch every aspect of daily life. Street cleaning, road maintenance, housing, urban planning, dog wardens, management of parks, fire services, arts and heritage, tourism, and community events — these are just a small snapshot of the wideranging work carried out by our local authorities every day. These services are made possible by the dedication and hard work of our local authority teams. ‘Your Council Day’ is a chance to shine a light on their contributions, celebrate their impact, and raise awareness of the essential role local councils play in support-

ing and strengthening our communities. We are very proud in Kilkenny County Council to support people and places to grow, connect, and thrive together.”

“Your Council Day is a powerful reminder of the essential role our Council plays in the everyday lives of our residents,” said Cllr. Michael McCarthy, Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council. “From maintaining parks and libraries to supporting local businesses and community groups, our work touches every corner of life in Kilkenny City and County. This day is about celebrating the people behind those services and promoting the connection between the Council and the communities we proudly serve.”

Check out the Council’s website at www. kilkennycoco.ie for more information about the day’s activities and the services provided by the Council.

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Kilkenny municipal district elects new mayor and deputy mayor Photographs by Vicky Comerford At the Annual General Meeting of the Kilkenny Municipal District held on Friday, 20 June 2025, in the Council Chamber at County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, Fianna Fáil Councillor John Coonan was officially elected as Mayor of the Kilkenny Municipal District.

Cllr. Coonan, a long-serving public representative, expressed his deep pride and appreciation upon taking up the role. He acknowledged the honour of being chosen by his colleagues and thanked them for their confidence in his

leadership. In his remarks, the newly elected Mayor highlighted his commitment to continuing the work of supporting communities across Kilkenny, fostering economic growth, improving local services, and promoting collaboration across all sectors. He also paid tribute to the outgoing Mayor for their service and leadership over the past year.

In addition, the AGM saw the election of Green Party/ Comhaontas Councillor Maria Dollard as Deputy Mayor of the Kilkenny Municipal District. Cllr.

Dollard, known for her advocacy on environmental and social issues, welcomed

the opportunity to take on the role and pledged to support the Mayor in delivering for the people of Kilkenny. She emphasized the importance of working together across party lines to ensure the district continues to thrive.

Both appointments were met with warm congratulations from fellow councillors and officials, marking the beginning of a new term of leadership. With a renewed sense of purpose and collaboration, the Kilkenny Municipal District Council looks ahead to a productive year focused on community wellbeing and sustainable developmen

The Kilkenny Observer 27th June 2025

The Kilkenny Observer 27th June 2025

Photo by Vicky Comerford To my proposers, Councillor Joe Malone and Councillor David Fitzgerald, thank you for your faith in me and for your very kind words.

To all my fellow members of the Kilkenny City Municipal District, I extend my deepest gratitude for supporting my nomination. This is, without question, the proudest and most profound moment of my political career.

Fellow members and friends, it is with a great sense of honour and humility that I accept the office of Mayor of this great city. I am acutely aware of the responsibilities this role brings. I am also mindful of the incredibly high standards maintained by all the Mayors I have had the privilege to serve under for more than 30 years. Their leadership and commitment to Kilkenny have shaped my own understanding of public service, and I will do everything in my power to uphold that legacy. To fulfil my role effectively, your support and cooperation are not just important; they are an essential prerequisite. I want to build a term defined by collaboration and shared purpose.

New developments to enhance the city are everywhere: the new City Library, the landmark development of the Abbey Quarter, which has given us the Brewhouse

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John Coonan – Mayoral acceptance speech

business centre. Work on the urban street and park has commenced. The new Linear Park and Riverside Garden will also commence this year with the Watergate Outdoor Performance and Urban Park due to open this August. The St. Kieran’s Street and Market Yard Urban Enhancement Scheme will begin in September and the Waterford Road active travel upgrade is also set to start this year. This is a sign of a city that is investing in itself.

One thing personally that I will continue to draw attention to and focus on is the issue of derelict buildings. They are an eyesore on our beautiful streetscapes and a danger to the public. I believe these buildings can and must be put to far better use for living and for business, and I will work to see them brought back to life.

Alongside these issues, we must find innovative and sustainable solutions to our traffic congestion, and we must manage our city's growth in a way that protects our unique character while building a resilient and prosperous future. This can only be achieved through improved accessibility, expanding and enhancing our public transport and working with communities and businesses to make Kilkenny accessible to all. For example the new Park and Ride planned at Nowlan Park.

My passion for public service is rooted in my own

community. My love for my neighbours in Ardnore and Loughboy, and my time as Chairman of the Residents' Association, taught me that the character of our city is built in our neighbourhoods.

That strong community character is so very evident across all of Kilkenny. As Mayor, we must embrace every program and initiative to make our community areas as good as they can possibly be for all our residents, young and old.

These are not small tasks, but I am confident that by working together, we can make real and lasting progress.

On a deeply personal note, none of this would be possible without the unwavering support of my family. My wife Ann, son Aidan and my daughter-in-law Edel and beautiful grandkids Ava, Emma and Sean. They have been by my side throughout my long career in local politics, through all the challenges and successes.

Their love and encouragement are my foundation, and for that, I am eternally grateful.

Finally, I want to thank the local executive for their unwavering commitment and dedication to Kilkenny. They always strive to strike the right balance in development, and their hard work is essential to the progress of our city.

Together, let us continue all this important work. I look forward to serving you all.

Go raibh míle maith agaibh.

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The Kilkenny Observer 27th June 2025

kilkennyobserver.ie

A few words from the new Deputy Mayor

BY MARIA DOLLARD

The role of local government in the lives of local people is broad and deep. One of the most exciting developments in Kilkenny in recent years has been the opening of the new Mayfair Library.

Libraries have become the hub of all kinds of community activity and a place where everyone is welcome. Borrowing books, visiting an art exhibition, studying for exams and learning a new language are all things happening in the library and the staff have always and continue to be the greatest asset of our library service.

As Chairperson of the Heritage Forum, we work with a wide range of stakeholders to protect and promote our built and natural heritage. We have an embarrassment of riches in Kilkenny from medieval to the most recent legacy of Kilkenny Craft. Kilkenny is

designated as a World Craft City and Region. One of only 5 in the whole of Europe!

What an accolade and we must work to make sure that everyone who visits here knows that.

There is so much in Kilkenny to be proud of. A few years ago, there was an installation in the Abbey Quarter called ‘The City is Never Finished’ and it made me think that we are never finished in our quest to make Kilkenny the best place to live, work or visit. The enemy is cynicism and negativity, which can flourish if we let it but that’s wiped out, by the honest efforts of so many volunteers, business people, young people and community groups, working together to build a better future and leave a better city behind.

I will continue to strongly represent people, supporting the Mayor in my new role as Deputy Mayor and supporting the work of the Kilkenny County Council.

Speaking out when I think we could be better. Perhaps if you are not already a

member, take a stroll to the Mayfair, sit in the chair overlooking the street below and fill out the form to join.

It's free so there’s nothing to lose and much to gain.

The library is for everyone, so explore what’s on offer and make the most of the services and celebrate Your Council Day at the Mayfair Library.

Kilkenny Local Community Development Committee allocated 124 grants to communities across the county The Local Enhancement Programme 2025 aims to improve facilities in disadvantaged communities across the country. This initiative offers small-scale grants to local community groups, enabling them to upgrade or develop amenities that directly benefit residents. The funding supports a wide range of projects, including the improvement of community buildings, outdoor spaces, and equipment that enhances social and recreational activities.

Grants are distributed in alignment with each area’s Local Economic and Community Plan (LECP), ensuring that support is tailored to local needs and priorities. The programme emphasizes inclusive development, helping to foster stronger, more resilient communities by addressing local challenges and supporting grassroots initiatives.

The Local Enhancement Programme 2025 is part of the broader Community Enhancement Programme, overseen and funded by the Department of Rural and Community Development. This approach ensures a coordinated and strategic investment in community infrastructure, particularly in areas that need it most.

By supporting local groups with targeted financial assistance, the programme encourages civic participation and collaboration, ultimately contributing to the overall

wellbeing and sustainability of communities. The 2025 programme continues the government’s commitment to reducing regional disparities and strengthening the social fabric of society through meaningful, community-led development.

Kilkenny Local Community Development Committee received an allocation of €170,519.

The fund has been allocated across 124 community groups and organisations as follows:• 46 grants to cover current/operational costs.

• 78 grants to use for capital projects to include purchase of equipment, improvement and repair works to facilities Some examples of the type of projects supported in County Kilkenny include: • Contribution towards utility bills, insurance costs, rental costs • Purchase of training equipment, outdoor equipment, IT equipment • Internal and external painting • Roof repairs, heating repairs • Defibrillator The full list of projects supported is available on www.kilkennycoco.ie.

The Kilkenny Observer 27th June 2025

The work that goes on in the background…

By Cllr Stephanie Doheny In my day-to-day activities, while representing my local constituents, I find myself busy with several issues. The majority of my time is spent on the following: Housing: With the current housing crisis in Ireland, I am working hard to ensure I can help as many people affected by this issue as possible. I am fighting on behalf of my constituents on housing problems they face.

This

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includes rehoming people who have had their home sold while they were renting, providing emergency and long-term housing for the homeless & finding a safe refuge for people who face all forms of abuse in their family home. This is almost a full-time job and it’s one part of my duty that I take extremely seriously. I’m glad to say I have been successful across all fronts in finding accommodation for those in my constituency who need it the most. This is a daily battle, but one I am passionate about and will endeavour to solve for all those who seek my help.

Safety: I am actively involved with Kilkenny County Council in providing speed ramps throughout my constituency. This includes urban areas and housing estates. This is another critical part of my role as these ramps save lives.

Kings River upgrade works: I am actively working on behalf of the people of Callan to progress the Kings

River upgrade works in my hometown. This river is a key part of our town and an area many people like to visit while out for walks and fishing.

The river needs considerable upgrade works to bring it back to its former glory and I am working diligently to get these works approved and started.

It’s a long process but one I’m focused on for my hometown constituents.

Additional childcare facilities: I am actively working on additional childcare facilities in my constituency. These facilities are currently under severe pressure and many families find themselves on waiting lists. This conversation is ongoing, and I am pushing hard for new facilities.

International affairs: I raised a motion in Kilkenny Council Chambers on the council’s procurement processes. My aim is to ensure the council's procurement process is consistent with protecting international humanitarian law. This is particularly relevant to the ongoing atrocities we see every day in Gaza.

Joe Lyons proud to represent Callan Thomastown community As we mark Council Day, we take this opportunity to celebrate the dedication and commitment shown by both our Rural and City County Councillors throughout Kilkenny. Their work, in partnership with every member of Kilkenny County Council staff, continues to deliver real results that benefit people in every corner of the County. It is a day to recognise not only the role of elected representatives but also the power of teamwork and shared vision in achieving progress for our communities.

I am deeply honoured and proud to represent the people of the Callan Thomastown Municipal District.

Each day brings a new opportunity to serve, support, and advocate for initiatives that strengthen our local area and, in turn, the wider county.

The theme of this year’s Council Day, "Building Stronger Communities," is at the heart of everything we strive to do as Councillors. Our mission is to help foster a place where people can live fulfilling lives, find meaningful work, and

enjoy recreation in a healthy and vibrant environment.

Our collective achievements are seen across many sectors—from improved infrastructure, access to education, environmental protection, and cultural initiatives to essential public services.

These milestones are not the result of any one person but the outcome of shared goals, active engagement, and a deep sense of community.

Today, as we come together to celebrate Council Day, let’s take a moment to appreciate the many facets of life that contribute to our strong quality of living. From our historic heritage and scenic landscapes to our outstanding schools, community groups, and public services—Kilkenny truly is a special place to call home.

Let us not take these blessings for granted.

Instead, let’s continue to support one another, work collaboratively, and remain dedicated to building a brighter future for every individual and family across our County.

Together, we have so much to be proud of—together, we have it all.

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The Kilkenny Observer 27th June 2025

Book launch

Mons Stars to The Royal Irish reg Five years in the making finally paid off for authors Larry Scallan and Mary Anne Maher when they launched Mons Stars to the Royal Irish Regiment at the Home Rule Club Kilkenny

Billy Dunne and Werner Lubbe

Co-author of Mons Stars to the Royal Irish Regiment, Mary Anne Maher pictured with her mother Margaret (Great Grand & Grand nieces of Pte. John Brennan who received the Mons Star 8116)

Ann Marie and Tony Cosgrave (Tony is grandson of Pte. James Cummins (6759) who is one of the soldiers recorded in the book)

Photos by Pat Shortall On Thursday 12 June a large crowd gathered in Kilkenny’s Home Rule Club to mark the launch of a new publication based on research undertaken to discover the men from the Royal Irish Regiment who were entitled to the 1914 'Mons' Star medal.

Co-author Larry Scallan opened proceedings by welcoming everyone to the launch. He explained the premise of the research which was to determine the county of origin, age, date of death, next of kin, of all the soldiers using information that has only become available since records have been digitised in recent years. The main source document that was used to identify a soldier who was awarded the 1914 Star was the Medal Index Card (MIC) and cascading from it included documents such as the Medal Rolls,

Gallantry Awards, Silver war badge rolls etc. From this research 1,928 men were identified as having qualified for the medal.

The Star The 1914 Star Also known as the Mons Star, is a bronze star with a red, white and blue ribbon, reflecting the French Tricolore. It was issued to British forces who had served in France or Belgium from 5 August 1914 (the declaration of war) to midnight 22 November 1914 (the end of the First Battle of Ypres). These were soldiers that were there at the very beginning of the war and so it was primarily awarded to the 'Old Contemptible’s', the professional pre-war soldiers of the British Expeditionary Force.

The recipient's service number, rank, name and unit were impressed on the back. Some medals have a

horizontal metal bar worn on the ribbon and inscribed '5th Aug.-22nd Nov. 1914', this distinguished those who had served under enemy fire.

This clasp was replaced by a small silver rosette when the ribbon was worn without the medal.There were approximately 378,000 1914 Stars issued of which 1,928 were awarded to soldiers from the Royal Irish Regiment.

WWI Larry Scallan explained the origins of the beginning of the First World War and the breakdown of the British Expeditionary Forces (BEF) and that the Royal Irish Regiment was part of the 8 Brigade 3 Division 2 Corps. He also covered off that 25% of these men were casualties of the war based on the Commonwealth War Graves Commission(CWGC) (1914-1921), 44% were taken

Bobby Kearney (ex 9th Inf’ Bn), Padraic Foley (Ex 30thBn) and Liam Barry (Ex 30thBn)

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Book launch

giment launched at Home Rule Larry Scallan addressed the gathering

The Scallan family: Steven, Colette, Lauren and Larry (co-author)

Left: Mary Anne Maher explained the trials and jubilation experienced in the research and publication of the book

Prisoner of War (POW), and 5% were discharged between 13 August 1914 and 11 November 1918. He also mentioned the youngest discovered casualty who was Pte. Thomas Barry from Dungarvan who was only 14 years of age when he was killed in Le Pilly, October 1914. The youngest soldier was Pte. Christopher Conroy aged 13, from Clonmel, Co. Tipperary, who was possibly wounded in the Marne in

Tom and Susie Molloy

September 1914, discharged in 1915 due to being physically unfit for further war service. He died in 1930 in the Cashel Home aged 30.

The youngest POW was John Boland aged 15 from Carrick on Suir, Co. Tipperary, taken POW in Le Pilly in October 1914. He died in 1970.

Co-author Mary Anne Maher spoke about eight men whose stories bring to the fore the premise and the losses of the war. These

men were from Kilkenny, Wexford, Tipperary, Waterford, Cork and Westmeath showing the demographics of the regiment and that the men who enlisted while predominantly from the recruitment area of the South East of Ireland. There were men from all parts of the country, North and South.

Thanks Mary Anne and Larry thanked everyone for attending, especially those who travelled long distances to attend. They also thanked their families, friends and supporters. A big expression of thanks went to Camilia and Gary Bleakley for their expertise in the editing and designing of the publication and to everyone at Perfecto Print for the excellent quality of the publication. Finally they thanked the Kilkenny Great War Memorial Committee for their support

with the refreshments at the launch and also the management and staff of the

Sarah Wight, Brad Keogan, Camilla Blakeley (editor) and Gary Blakeley (designer)

Kilkenny Home Rule Club for facilitating the launch.

Following the official

Cllr Seán Ó hArgáin, pictured with Mary Anne Maher and Larry Scallan

proceedings with the launch everyone was invited to refreshments.

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Motors

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Motors

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Book launch Photos: Danny Lahart It was an article in the Irish Times, in 1999, that journalist Sean Kilfeather reviewed a book- Mud, Sweat and Jeers

by Kilkenny Journalist, Jimmy Rhatigan. The book that takes an inquisitive and at times anecdotal look inside a local club is a journey through the years with Emfa and then Kilkenny City Football Club, a trip that was brilliant and sometimes brutal, an excursion of good, bad and ugly that teased, tantalized and excited lovers of the beautiful game in schoolboys, junior and professional senior soccer.

The main act is sport but there are whirlwind peripherals as the 211 pages delve into the lives of the courageous men and women who undertook a crusade into the unknown and so often dug into their own pockets to keep afloat the Good Ship that was born in Kilkenny CBS and nurtured in Fatima Place and Emmett Street. Having completed his schooling at The C.B.S. on James’ Street in Kilkenny, Jimmy entered the world of journalism with The Kilkenny People newspaper. This was a post he would hold for almost 40 years.

And Jimmy would tell you that the years spent at The Kilkenny People were happy ones. First off, he worked very well with the proprietor and editor John Kerry Keane, a man Jimmy admired and respected. Mind you, I think it is fair to say that it worked both ways. And of course he worked alongside some of the best journalists in the business, who as it turned out also became lifelong

Author Jimmy Rhatigan pictured with grandson MJ

When love comes to town Ann Rhatigan proudly shows her husband Jimmy’s new book

Chair of The Great War Memorial Committee Donal Croghan, pictured with High Street businesswoman Anne Ryan

Owner of Khans books on James’ St, Khan Kiely pictured with Kilkenny artist Judy Rhatigan

friends. These included Peter Holohan, Sean Hurley, Pat Sweeney and John Knox.

Jimmy’s ‘entrance’ exam was in the form of an essay he had to write. Having been met with approval by the powers that be at The Kilkenny People, Jimmy set off on a journalistic career that saw him become one of the most respected journalists, not only in Kilkenny, but nationally.

When we speak of Kilkenny city soccer club, Jimmy Rhatigan was, at one stage,

manager, secretary, pitch marker, fund raiser and a few other things in his spare time, if he had any. Apart from his own online paper The Kilkenny Press, Rhatigan now has a bit more time on his hands.

And because of that extra time, one assumes that the idea of his latest book Love Is… was born.

MC Fergus Heffernan

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Book launch On Thursday night last week, family and friends joined Jimmy as he launched Love Is…. The publication looks at the lives of 66 men and women from Kilkenny city and county and highlights their contribution to life in the Black and Amber county.

This is the third book from the man who started life in Fatima Place in Kilkenny.

His two previous books include, Mud sweat and Jeers and Treasure lost, treasure found. The Paris Texas pub and restaurant on High Street in Kilkenny was the venue for the launch.

Celebration In a heart warming celebration of grassroots commitment and community dedication, the book launch of Jimmy Rhatigan’s third book Love Is…, brought together some of the most committed community activists from across Kilkenny. The book, a compilation of stories and insights from these unsung heroes, shines a spotlight on the tireless work that often goes unnoticed but has a profound impact on society.

The launch held at the city centre hostelry Paris Texas, was a testament to the power of community spirit and the difference that passionate individuals can make.

Master of ceremonies Fergus Heffernan welcomed the audience and set the tone for the evening, emphasizing the importance of storytelling in highlighting the achievements of community activists. Mr Heffernan had special words

Dick and Breda Walsh

Andrea Comerford and son MJ with Grainne McGrath

Marie and Gerry Minogue at Paris Texas for Jimmy Rhatigan's book launch

Tommy Roche, Alan O’Reilly, Eimear Ni Bhraonain, Mary and Eamon Corcoran

of praise for the author Jimmy Rhatigan, praising his journalistic endeavours and describing him as a towering influence that helped shape modern day Kilkenny.

Throughout the night, attendees had the opportunity to engage with the book's contributors,

Ber Scott attended the launch of Jimmy Rhatigan’s latest book

Michael Comerford, son-in-law of the author

hearing firsthand about their journeys, challenges, and triumphs. From organizing local clean-ups, developing the arts, advocating for social justice, promoting life saving initiatives, the stories shared were diverse and inspiring.

Father and son The official launch was performed by father and son Michael and MJ Comerford, son-in-law and grandson of the author. There was a loud appreciative cheer when MJ, with great aplomb, announced, “I now declare Love Is… by Jimmy Rhatigan officially

launched.”

Love Is… is much more than just a book; it is a call to the wider community to reflect on their own roles and to consider how they might contribute to positive change. As the stories within its pages demonstrate, activism can take many forms, and every effort, no matter how small it may seem, has the potential to make a significant difference.

As the night drew to a close, there was a palpable sense of hope that Love Is … will be the catalyst that will help change perceptions and encourage greater community activism.

Catriona and Conan Doyle

John Joe Cullen and PJ Norton

Sports buddies Simon Walton and Billy Walsh

Kay and John Brennan, Paddy Horohan and Richard Ryan

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Global Report A record number of children were subjected to acts of violence in conflict zones in 2024, with the number of incidents recorded rising by 25%, according to a UN report.

The UN security council’s annual report on children and armed conflict found 22,495 children in 2024 were killed, wounded, denied humanitarian support or recruited for conflict.

It highlighted a 44% rise in attacks on schools and 35% rise in sexual violence against children.

“This must serve as a wakeup call. We are at the point of no return,” said Virginia Gamba, the special representative of the UN Secretary General for children and armed conflict.

“Children living amid hostilities are being stripped of their childhood.

“Instead of recognising the special protection afforded to children, governments and armed groups around the world blatantly ignore international law that defines a child as anyone under 18.”

The report verified 41,370 incidents of violations against children – including 5,149 that occurred earlier but were only verified in 2024 – with 4,856 in Gaza, primarily carried out by the Israeli security forces, including killings, injuries and the denial of permits for medical treatment.

It verified 22 cases of Palestinian boys being used

by Israeli forces as human shields in Gaza and five in the occupied West Bank.

Massacre of the innocents It also highlighted rises in violence against children in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Somalia, Nigeria and Haiti.

The number of incidents was the highest since the UN began verifying reports

in 1996. The report also said there was an increase in the number of children sufferring multiple violations, from 2,684 in 2023 to 3,137 in 2024, especially in cases where abductions, recruitment and sexual violence converged.

More than a quarter of cases of sexual violence against children were recorded in Haiti.

“To normalise this level of violence against children is to accept the dismantling of our collective humanity. The level

of alarm is unprecedented, the UN report noted.

Governments must act immediately to turn the tide of grief, trauma and loss borne by children,” said Helen Pattinson, CEO of War Child United Kingdom.

According to the UN report, of more than 4,000 incidents recorded in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) more than half involved children being recruited by armed groups and turned into child soldiers.

England and Wales to allow assisted dying Terminally ill people in England and Wales are to be given the right to an assisted death in a historic societal shift that will transform end-of-life care.

MPs narrowly voted in favour of a private member’s Bill introduced by Labour’s Kim Leadbeater, which could become law within four years.

Her Bill, which passed by 314 to 291 votes, a majority of 23, was hailed by campaigners as “a day for the history books, where facts have prevailed over fear”.

The emotional debate in parliament was dominated by pleas from opponents of the Bill for stricter safeguards against coercion by abusers, concern from disabled people and warnings about the fundamental change in the power of the State when granted new rights over life and death.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer voted in favour of the Bill, while MPs were given a free vote. It will head to the House of Lords and peers are not expected to block its progress, though opponents said they would continue to fight the Bill.

The new law will give people with less than six months to live in England and Wales the right to an assisted death after approval from two doc-

tors and a panel including a psychiatrist, social worker and senior lawyer.

Opening the debate, Leadbeater said now was the time to seize the moment, to “correct the profound injustices of the status quo and to offer a compassionate and safe choice to terminally ill people who want to make [that choice]”.

The Labour MP for Spen Valley said it was “not a choice between living and dying – it is a choice for terminally ill people about how they die”.

She said rejecting the Bill was

“not a neutral act, it is a vote for the status quo … and it fills me with despair to think MPs could be here in another 10 years’ time hearing the same stories”.

Terminally ill people and families were in the public galleries watching the debate and at a rally in Parliament Square. Dame Esther Rantzen, terminally ill with lung cancer, whom Starmer promised he would make parliamentary time to debate the Bill, said she had never quite believed it would come to pass.

“It won’t come in my life-

time, I won’t live long enough, but I am so relieved it will help future generations to look forward to a good death. I am astonished I have lived to see the moment,” she said.

Concerns were raised by disability activists, who held a protest outside parliament, and MPs opposed to the Bill made passionate pleas that it would lead to people being coerced into ending their lives early.

The Bishop of London, Sarah Mullally, a former chief nursing officer for England, said it would be a service introduced

amid multiple risks to the most vulnerable, including serious shortfalls in social and palliative care.

“It does not prevent terminally ill people who perceive themselves to be a burden to their families and friends from choosing assisted dying,” she said. “And it would mean that we became a society where the state fully funds a service for terminally ill people to end their own lives but shockingly only funds around one-third of palliative care.”

The government and NHS have four years to implement the Bill, though Leadbeater has said she hoped it would be ready sooner. There are no answers, as yet, as to whether the NHS would provide the service or private providers, or whether it would be free at the point of use.

Terminally ill patients with a prognosis of six months will have be of sound mind to proceed, but MPs ≠rejected an amendment that would have prevented anyone from accessing the service on the basis of feeling too much of a burden to loved ones.

There will be criminal sanctions on any family member found to be coercing someone to hasten their deaths.

Many speaking in support or

against the Bill told of some of the hardest moments of their lives, such as the Conservative MP Mark Garnier, who spoke of his mother’s drawn-out death from pancreatic cancer.

He said she had endured more suffering and anguish compared with a constituent with the same disease who ended their life under assisted dying laws in Spain.

Labour’s Siobhain McDonagh’s voice broke with emotion describing her sister’s death from brain cancer, and her fears her life would have been shortened had such a law existed sooner.

From both Labour and the Conservatives there were warnings that the Bill would herald a watershed moment that could not be undone.

The mother of the house, the Labour MP Diane Abbott, said MPs should oppose the Bill on behalf of the marginalised.

“I came to this house to be a voice for the voiceless. Who could be more voiceless than somebody who is in their sickbed and believes they are dying?

“I ask members in this debate to speak up for the voiceless one more time,” said Diane Abbott.

– News agencies

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Basketball

Summer Basketball Bonanza is once again coming to Thomastown, Kilkenny on Saturday the 5th of July

The South East Schools Team who will play and All Star team at the 2025 event

Crowds Enjoying a previous exhibition game in Thomastown

Previous Exhibition Game

The Kilkenny based Berkeley Wolves basketball Club are excited to be hosting a youth outdoor basketball exhibition game and community event including

an under 15 tournament at the Thomastown Outdoor Amenity, Co Kilkenny on the 5th of July 2025. The last two events that we held were a huge success with the entire

community coming together with large crowds attending from all over the East and South East of the country.

Because of the huge interest, we have decided to host another event this summer.

Instead of a senior exhibition game, this year

we have decided to organise a youth event that will give the counties and regions up and coming young stars a platform to showcase their skills in front of an outdoor crowd. And all taking place on what we think is one of the coolest outdoor courts in

Ireland.

Russ Ryan from the Berkeley Wolves said ‘’this year we the event is on Saturday 5th of July and we are delighted to have the South East Schools BIPPS team participating and playing against an All Star

Select Team. Also, during the day, we will have a youth tournament that will lead up to the main event. The day’s activities will start at 11 am with a youth under 15 tournament and the main event i.e. the boys All Star game kicking off at 6.30pm’’. ‘’This year we will have special guests, LIVE DJ with music from Cleveland Mike, compere, catering/barbecue, shop etc. This will be a fun family event and a great way to promote the game of Basketball in an outdoor venue’’.

Russ also said that this event would not be possible without the support from sponsors who include the Thomastown Credit Union, the Kilkenny and South Easter Area Basketball Board and Kilkenny County Council. Also thank you to Walsh’s Centra in Thomastown and Super Valu, ‘’we really appreciate your support’’.

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Magpies on the Pylon

Death, suicide, and the turmoil that follows

Any death will cause upset in a family. However, there is something particularly sad about suicide. Obviously the death itself is horrendous and leaves a family in turmoil. But there are then the questions that follow. Why? How long was he/she troubled? Why didn't they say something?

And of course blame or to assume blame can wreak havoc, both physically and mentally.

Last week at the Watergate theatre, Michael Collins portrayed one such scenario in his play Magpies on the Pylon, where we see how the affect of the suicide of a son can rip a family apart.

The torment that ensues, portrayed wonderfully and skilfully by the actor. All aforementioned points are addressed. Collins, a member of the traveller community,

from the panel discussion where it highlighted that the traveller community makes up 1% of Irish Society yet the suicide rates in the traveller community are 7 times higher than the wider community. The challenges within the health system, access to proper support and services, and the delay in getting an appointment was also debated. One key point from the Q&A was that the support services should complete the traveller culture awareness training.

As the theme for men’s health week is ‘Shoulder to

is a well known actor and delivered a performance with all the panache and aplomb that the show needed.

Struggle with suicide Magpies on the Pylon is set in a tiny bedroom belonging to Jim, a Traveller father who struggles to cope with the suicide of his 23-year-old son. After his son’s death, Jim has become isolated from other family members. The audience accompanies Jim on an emotional rollercoaster ride as he articulates loving memories of his son, his fears for the wellbeing of his other three children, the turmoil that has developed in his relationship with his wife, his anger at God, and his agonising questions about whether there was something he could have done to prevent his son’s death. The performance was

part of Men’s Health Week and organised by the Traveller Health Care Project. The Traveller Health Care Project is managed under Kilkenny LEADER Partnership.

Also taking part in the show was Johnny Collins, Michael's son. As they say, he didn’t lick it off the stones and Johnny added enormously to the play with his cameo role. A wonderful Q&A followed which was informative and enlightening and was led by a thoughtful panel discussion with Helena Power (Urlingford and the Irish Traveller Movement), Michael Collins

(Writer and Performer), Catherine Joyce (Manager of Blanchardstown Traveller Development Group), Bernard Power (Tusla Youth Advisory coordinator, Laois Travellers Action Group), Patrick Reilly (Traveller Mental Health Coordinator, Pavee Point), Paul Clifford (Traveller Men’s Health Worker, Kilkenny LEADER Partnership Traveller Health Project) and Rory Connellan (Clinical Services Coordinator, Teac Tom).

Problems Some interesting point arose

Shoulder’, it was echoed how we can all play a part in creating better outcomes for those who at times can struggle with these issues. Encouraging us all to seek support and support each other in reducing stigma was a point made over and over. The panel agreed that the services need to see the person in front of them, not the patient. To always see the human being whatever way they present or how many times they present. All in all, it was a most rewarding day with excellent theatre and a most productive discussion.

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Community & GAA Notes

KilkennyGAA clubs and Communitynews CLARA POC FADA Kilian Phelan (Senior) and Ruairi BowdenMullen (U16) were Clara GAA’s representatives in the Kilkenny GAA Poc Fada held at Gowran Park Racecourse. Both players can be extremely proud of how they represented themselves and the club. Kilian was only a short distance second behind the Graigue Ballycallan GAA player Mícheál Hoyne who will now represent Kilkenny in the Leinster Poc Fada.

COUNTY SCENE Well done to Katie and Keara Ryan who played full back and corner forward respectively for the Kilkenny U23 team that drew with Galway in Nowlan Park on Saturday. Rachel Whelan, Laoise Nolan and Grace Barcoe were also part of the squad.

And in the senior game between the same two counties afterwards Mary O Connnell was on the losing Kilkenny team.

CAMOGIE MASTERCLASS Clara Camogie welcomed two county players to coach our teenage players in Goalkeeping and Camogie Skills. Thank you to County Camogie stars Aoife Norris and Laura Greene, who were on site last week to show our players how to perfect their camogie skills.

PLAYERS INJURY FUND All adult GAA players and parents/guardians of Youth GAA Players are advised that there have been changes to the process of lodging claims to the Player Injury Fund. Details have been sent by text, please take time to read.

HURLING RESULTS Clara U14s V Emeralds, Wed 18th June, Clara 3-10 Emeralds 4-13 BEREAVED Sincere condolences to the Campion Family on the passing of Mary. Mary was treasurer of the club for many years and as a prominent member of the Lotto Committee was instrumental in raising a huge amount of funds for the club. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam.

CLUB LOTTO The Lotto results for 17th June were as follows, numbers 10,15 and 24. There was no Jackpot winner.The €30 Lucky Dip winners; Brian Kennedy, Teresa Connolly, Brigid Nolan, Statia O Carroll, Willie John Kehoe. Thanks to all who play the Lotto each week & best of luck next week.

O’LOUGHLIN GAELS PROGRESS ON NEW DEVELOPMENT The construction by Clearwater Developments for O’Loughlin Gaels GAA club of a brand-new hurling wall and astro turf area at St. John’s Park, a fantastic facility that will benefit players of all ages and abilities, is progressing well. To date the foundations excavation is complete and the foundations are now poured with certified concrete. The certified structural steel and mesh is completed and the Hurling Wall construction in is in progress.

This project is designed to provide a high-quality, all-weather training surface that promotes skill development and year-round use. It is being constructed using top-grade materials to ensure durability and long-term performance.

Members and everyone visiting or using our facilities are reminded that the safety of all our members is paramount while construction is underway. We kindly ask you to ensure you supervise your children closely. Stay outside the worksite barriers. Be aware of increased machinery on site. Ensure safe behaviour, especially for juvenile members. Thank you for your cooperation.

CAMOGIE REPRESENTATIVES Three O’Loughlin Gaels players, Laura Greene, Laura Murphy and Danielle Quigley represented Kilkenny in senior camogie against Galway last weekend in UPMC Nowlan Park. While the western team won the game, Kilkenny now look

forward to meeting Tipperary in the All Ireland Senior Camogie quarter- final in Croke Park on July 6th. Well done also to Emma Poyntz who was part of the Kilkenny Under 23 team which played Galway as the curtain raiser to the senior game.

SUMMER CAMP O’Loughlin Gaels Summer Camps are now booked out. The jersey order has been submitted. Please contact Stephen at 085-7181325 if you still have to make payment.

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE MODEL SCHOOL Congratulations to the Model School on winning its first ever Hurling/Camogie title in Nowlan Park. The school won the Cumann Na mBunscol Under 11 Roinn D Championship Final against Clogh Moneenroe after previous wins over Galmoy and Johnstown. The team was made up of 12 O’Loughlin Gaels players and 1 each from Dicksboro and Conahy with our own Andy Kearns as the Manager. Great credit must go to the school principal Olwen and all the teachers for their willingness to promote and encourage their pupils to play our national game.

BUS TO ALL IRELAND SEMI-FINAL Now that Kilkenny’s opponents are known for the All Ireland senior hurling semi-final all thoughts will turn to attending the game. With so many of our club’s players involved no doubt there will be a big O’Loughlin Gaels presence in Croke Park on July 6th. Why not take the stress out of travelling on the day and take the O’Loughlin Gaels bus. No worry about traffic or parking. For information and to book places contact Stephen at 086 1993711.

CLUB LOTTO There was no winner of O’Loughlin Gaels club lotto dated June 17th. The numbers drawn were 5,12,14, 25 and the bonus number was 20.

Play Now at www.oloughlingaels.com/lotto Promotors Draw, 1. Robbie Woods c/o Paddy Greene. 2. Marty Bambrick c/o Paddy Greene.

3. Johnny Phelan. 4. Jim c/o Ml Dreeling. 5. Dee Gales c/o Mick Nolan. 6. Olivia Moriarity c/o Ml Nolan. 7. Keith Kinchella c/o Eileen Kinchella. 8.

Daniela Burke c/o Online. 9. Catherine Murphy c/o Online. 10. Margie Wall c/o Online. Thank you for you continued support.

O’ LOUGHLIN GAELS GAELIC GAMES FOR ALL Inclusive Gaelic Games for children with additional needs continues in St. John’s Park, home of O’ Loughlin Gaels every Monday night at 6pm. This initiative is open to boys and girls between 6-17 years of age. This programme

will be structured around non-contact Hurling, Gaelic football, Rounders and other fun games.

The most important part of this programme is that everybody has fun and is part of a team.

Please note that everyone is welcome. We have a number of volunteers in place who are Garda vetted and have attended the relevant safeguarding training. The sessions run for approximately 45 minutes each week and parents will need to be in attendance at all times. For more information please contact Philip O’ Reilly on (087) 4181020.

New volunteers always welcome. Kindly supported by: Kilkenny GAA & Kilkenny Recreation and Sports Partnership BOOKINGS FOR OCCASIONS O’Loughlin Gaels Club boasts the best club facilities for its members in the city. With plenty of free parking, kitchen, bar and lounge facilities available it can cater for all your party needs.

Contact 086-8919312 to book your special occasion-christening, communion, confirmation, birthdays and anniversaries, special wedding guest gatherings or any group occasion you require. The large Hall is available for larger community events and the space outside is safe and secure for all.

NOTES If you wish to have any item included in the St. John’s Parish notes please email it to communications.oloughlingaels.kilkenny@gaa.ie FRESHFORD NOTES NEW PEDESTRIAN CROSSING As part of the ongoing safety programme in Freshford village a new automated pedestrian crossing is being installed on the Ballyragget road. Local Cllr Michael McCarthy says work has started and will be ongoing for the next number of weeks. The importance of signalized crossings has become necessary with the advent and wholesale transition to electric vehicles which can be impossible to hear. This is a welcome safety feature for both the young and not so young, noted Cllr. McCarthy GRAVE MATTER Freshford Graveyard is soon to have a welcome safety first facility. Work has commenced on the long awaited car park according to local Cllr. Michael McCarthy. Fencing is being erected this week with ground works to follow says Cllr McCarthy. A special word of thanks to Donal O’Sullivan for his co-operation in the matter.

CAMOGIE

Congratulations to local St.Lachtains Camogie player Ciara Hickey who was chosen on the Electric Ireland minor camogie team of 2025.

Ciara a stalwart member of the Kilkenny minor side who won the All Ireland title earlier this year BUS TO MATCH A bus will travel from Kavanaghs Bar to the AllIreland semi-final on Sunday 6th July. Anyone interested in travelling should give their name into Kavanaghs bar or call 087 9700795.

SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to Mrs. Susan Condon of Rathbeagh and all her family on the sudden death last week of her father Richard Dawson, late of Skeough, Callan, Kilkenny. Funeral Mass took place on Saturday last in the Church of the Assumption Callan followed by burial in Kilbride cemetery.

IONAD LACHTAIN St Lachtain’s Church Museum and Arts Centre is now open every Saturday and Sunday from 11.30am to 4.00pm.

GAA NEWS Scoil Lachtain: Congratulations to Scoil Lachtain U13 boys’ hurling team on winning the Roinn C championship in Nowlan Park when beating neighbours Tullaroan. The players showed great skill and determination against a strong Tullaroan team coming out winners on a scoreline of Scoil Lachtain 1-11 Scoil Ruadhain 1-8.

Commiserations to Scoil Lachtain U11 boys who were defeated in the U11 Roinn A championship semi-final by St Canice’s NS at Pairc Lachtain. Great credit goes to their teachers and trainers Mr. Flood and Mr. Mullally for winning a championship and getting to a Roinn A semi final.

Féile na nGael: St. Lachtain’s U15 boys made history on Saturday when they were the first team from the club to compete in Feile na nGael Division 1 finals. The boys lost their opening game to Dublin giants Kilmacud Crokes on a scoreline of 0-6 to 1-5. They then went on to defeat Wexford side Naomh Eanna 1-3 to 0-1 and Clare’s Sixmilebridge 2-4 to 1-6. A huge second half performance against, eventual Shield competition winners, Sixmilebridge saw St. Lachtain’s qualify for the quarterfinal. The boys were up against Waterford giants Ballygunner in the quarter final of the Cup competition. They battled hard but went down against the eventual winners of the overall competition on a scoreline of . St. Lachtains 1-2 Ballygun-

Under 11 team from The Model School, Kilkenny NS which won their Cumann na mBunscoil final in UPMC Nowlan Park recently.

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

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Community & GAA Notes ner 3-8. The boys and their management team represented club and county with distinction against the best teams in Ireland and can be immensely proud of themselves.

The same group travel to Wicklow next Saturday to compete in the Gaelic Football equivalent competition Féle Peil na nOg. They will play against Milmore Gaels, Dromcollgher Broadford and Clara Gaels in the group stages.

Further fixture details can be found on our social media pages.

St. Lachtain’s Junior hurlers defeated Threecastles in the Junior F league semi-final on a scoreline of 4-12 to 1-11 in Threecastles. They will play against Tullogher Rosbercon in the league final next Sunday at 3pm in Bennettsbridge.

Glenmore defeated St. Lachtain’s in the Junior B League Final in Larchfield last Sunday afternoon. St. Lachtain’s got off to flying start against a strong breeze before two quick goals from Glenmore switched the momentum. St Lachtain’s found themselves chasing the southern side for the remainder of the game and struggled to regain the upper hand. The game finished St. Lachtain’s 1-16 Glenmore 3-18.

Team: J Burke, D Quinn, L Kennedy, J Hickey, C Dalton, J Bergin, P White, P Campion, A Rafter, C Dawson, J Fitzpatrick, M Campion, D Maher, C Power, C Donnelly. Subs Used: C Bowden, J Campion, J O’Connor, D Killeen.

LOOP WALK Cllr Michael McCarthy has welcomed the latest round of funding for the Loop Walk in Freshford.

The wonderful amenity has been awarded €10K under the Walks Development fund Scheme.

Cllr. McCarthy said that this is a great boost locally and will further enhance the project BRIDGE Freshford Bridge club will host Open Summer Bridge in Threecastles Hall commencing this week and continuing each Monday at 7.30pm all bridge players welcome.

TIDY TOWNS Freshford Tidy Town submitted their 2025 competition application and that was quite an undertaking and well done to the volunteers for completing the entry. The Committee would ask all local residents and visitors to the village to support their application by doing your part where you live or visit. They would welcome all painting, cleaning, litter picks, planting and all activities that enhance our beautiful village.

Tidy town’s volunteers meet each Wednesday evening in the village so please come along for a chat and to lend a hand to your community if you can spare an hour.

CAMP Freshfords longest running camp will take place again this year from 28th July to 1st August at GAA Grounds. The camp was founded by local man JJ Grace and has been running for over 20 years full of activity and fun. Places will be limited. For booking or for more information please contact JJ on 086 8629666 GRAVEYARD MASS The annual graveyard mass took place in St.Lachtains Cemetery, Freshford on Sunday last with a big crowd in attendance. The rain stayed away just along enough for the ceremony. The mass was celebrated by Fr. Liam Taylor, Ballycallan who is looking after the Parish at present THREECASTLES GRAVEYARD With the help of a small grant and within the guidance of the heritage council, a clean up of the old graveyard in Threecastles has been organised. The clean up will take place from 10-11am on Saturdays. If you are interested in helping out please come along and bring your gloves, secateurs, pruners, rake etc.

SPLIT THE POT The winner of Split the pot last week was James McArdle, Sart. The proceeds for the month of June are going to Freshford Tidy Towns and you are asked to please support them during that time. The draw will take place every Saturday.

Entry cost just €2 and envelopes are available at Loop Café and in all local shops and pubs.

Revolut is also available on 08330411011 don’t forget to include your name and address.

SOCCER Freshford Town Soccer club haven’t anything on the field of play but the club are busy plan-

ning for the regeneration project which received permission and grant for development of a synthetic grass playing surface to the existing grassed area is intended, erection of LED floodlighting to both the existing main grassed and proposed synthetic grass pitches with additional car parking provisions, 2new sports dug outs to grassed pitch and upgrade of existing boundary walls and fencing drainage and all associated works. This is great news for the Club and great credit goes to the hard working committee who did all the work in applying for the grant.

NUENNA GROUP People are living longer stronger and healthier lives nowadays, so why not have fun while improving your fitness with the local Nuenna social community group. Membership to Nuenna AC club for the year is €60.

LOOP CAFE The Loop Community Café in the village is open Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to 4pm. They are always looking for people on both sides of the counter, so why not support your own local café and stay local. You can meet with friends for a chat and a cuppa or some lovely homemade food or try out their new tarts. The Loop also hosts a variety of community activities The Loop is looking for volunteers as well as customers. Use your skills and develop new ones. If you’re great at fixing a door hinge, baking a cake, or working in a kitchen – or just willing to learn there’s got lots to do. Find the Loop on Facebook to keep up with events, or stop by any time. If you’d like to volunteer, please call the café at 056.883.2650 and speak with Rhiannon.

The country market is now back at the Loop in the Alley on Saturday mornings with lovely home grown produce and baking FOROIGE Foroige youth club meet each Monday evening from 6.30pm to 8pm in the Community Hall They have music, a free library, stationary corner, games, chat and treats each week. New members are always very welcome. The youth club is members only so if you are interest in joining please go along and sign up. They are also looking for adult volunteers. For more info contact Aidan n 086 0674485 or Aidan.gleeson@ foroige.ie PARISH NEWS Mass in Tulla church is on Saturday evening and 11am Mass in St.Lachtains Church on Sundays.

Following the death of Monsignor Kieron Kennedy PP, Fr. Liam Taylor PP Ballycallan will be taking on administrative and pastoral duties in Freshford until more permanent plans are in place. Freshford will be clustered with Tullaroan, Ballycallan and Fr.Liam is co ordinator of the cluster. You can contact Fr.Liam on 086 8180954.

The parish newsletter is available on their website every week and also on the website.

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.

JAMES STEPHENS GAA AND CAMOGIE CLUB INTERNAL CAMOGIE FEILE The club’s U-14 camogie team claimed a significant victory when accounting for Dicksboro 3-06 to 0-01 in the final of the Internal U-14 Camogie Final. Throughout the tournament the Village girls put in a number of commanding team performances which led to the richly deserved final victory over our city rivals. In the lead up to the final, emphatic wins were recorded over Young Irelands, Erins Own and John Lockes. In the final impressive scoring displays were seen from Sorcha Larkin (2-03), Hannah Devine (1-01), Roisin O’Shea (0-01) and Emma Lennon (0-01) while strong on-field leadership was given by team captain Katie Jane Murphy, Molly Ann Phelan, Ria Quinn and Mary Kate Parsons. Credit to the team mentors John Murphy, Emer Larkin, Emmett Larkin, Eoin Larkin and Andy Doyle for their commitment to the young camogie stars which must augur well for the future of the game in the club.

KILKENNY CAMOGIE It was a disappointing weekend for the club’s camogie stars lining out with Kilkenny camogie teams in their All-Ireland round robin fixtures in UPMC Nowlan Park on Saturday. Senior players Niamh Deely, Michelle Teehan and panellist Spohie O’ Dwyer were on the wrong side of a 1-17 to 0-12 defeat to Galway in their final group fixture. However, despite this setback they still retain an interest in the race for the O’ Duffy Cup with a quarter final fixture in Croke Park on Sunday week. In the U-23 game the Kilkenny team with Hannah Larkin at corner back battled hard to earn a deserved 0-12 to 1-09 draw against Galway in their final group fixture. Anna Doheny was also a member of the panel. Their reward is a repeat fixture against the Tribeswomen in the U-23 All-Ireland semi-final on Saturday next 28th June. Venue and time to be advised.

U-14 HURLING LEAGUES The U-14 hurlers suffered a narrow 3-08 to 2-09 defeat to Naas (Kildare) in their 6th round league fixture in Pairc Sheamuis Stiophan. The Naas lads started strongly and built a good first half lead but a determined 2nd half display by James Stephens, with goals from Paddy Larkin and Donal Power still left the home team short at the full-time whistle. There were also strong performances from Jeffrey Cleere, Jim Clune and Jack Ryan. On Thursday evening the U-14 “B” team hosted Young Irelands and following a quality team performance ran out impressive 4-13 to 2-06 winners with the help of goals from Oisin Sheeran and Ryan Dwyer. Solid displays were also seen from team captain Sam Byrne, Daniel Devine and goalkeeper Pauric Ryan to keep the young Village lads at the top end of the league table with two fixtures yet to play.

BONUS BALL The June Bonus Ball number was 30. Congratulations to the lucky winners Niall Cody and Pat Millea who will each receive a cheque for €500 in the coming days. As always, our thanks to the many members and friends who continue to support the fundraiser. The next draw will be on Saturday 19th July BBQ EVENING The Management Committee confirmed at a recent meeting that the annual Family BBQ evening will take place on Saturday 8th September starting at 5pm in Larchfield. The fun event gives players, family members, club officers and former players the opportunity to mingle, enjoy the craic and exchange views on all aspects of club affairs while enjoying the music and nourishing food on offer throughout the evening. All are welcome.

CLUB SHOP With the playing season in full swing members should note that the Red and Green shop holds a large stock of the latest fashionable club sports and leisurewear ideal to wear for all the upcoming hurling and camogie league and championship fixtures. Shop supervisor Breda Manogue will be on hand every Tuesday evening from 8 to 9pm to meet customer’s club gear requirements. Outside of that Breda can be contacted at 087 9648756.

CEMETERY MASS The annual St. Kieran’s Cemetery Mass of Remembrance for deceased family members and friends will be celebrated in the cemetery on Friday evening next, 27th June at 7.30pm.

Credit to the cemetery staff who will have the cemetery in pristine condition for the popular annual ceremony to which family members will travel from near and far to remember their dearly departed family members.

LOTTO Last week’s numbers were 7, 14, 18, 30. There was no winner. This week’s jackpot will be €8,200. The €40 consolation winners were Cyril Lawlor, Noel Grace, Darren Hickey, Mary Kelly and Mary L. Fitz.

GOWRAN GOWRAN PARK Derby day takes place on Sunday, 29th June.

For €45, receive admission, meal voucher, tote voucher and live music from Whistlin Donkeys.

Gowran Park are hosting the South East Junior open again this year on Tuesday, 12th August.

Book directly using this link. Tee Times 9.30am to 3.00pm. Open 18 hole. https://visitors. brsgolf.com/gowranpark#/open-competitions/1133/teesheet GOWRAN ON THE MOVE Delighted to announce that the ball courts are open for business again.

GOWRAN LITTLE THEATRE Gowran Little Theatre are holding readings for October Full-length Play on the 4th July 2025 at 8pm in Gowran Parish Hall. Email petermadden1@gmail.com or phone 085-7478338 for more information.

YOUNG IRELANDS CAMOGIE Massive congratulations to U15 Feile team who won the Shield Final in the John West National Feile against a strong St Brigid’s Blackwater Camogie team. The girls worked tirelessly throughout the day and played some fantastic camogie, big well done to all the girls and management involved. Thank you to all our great supporters for consistently cheering the girls on!

YOUNG IRELANDS GAA Congratulations to Liam Farrell from Young Irelands who won the U16 Puc Fáda in Gowran Park. Liam goes on to represent Kilkenny on June 28th Official Kilkenny GAA. GOWRAN NS WERE CROWNED COUNTRY CUP CHAMPIONS. A huge congratulations to Gowran NS, who put in a sensational performance in Nowlan Park to win the Country Cup, defeating old rivals Mooncoin with a remarkable scoreline of 6-09 to 2-08. Massive credit to the dedicated teachers and mentors behind the team, Mr. Aylward, Mr. O’Gorman, Mr. Cushen, and Mr. Murphy.

BENNETTSBRIDGE CEMETERY MASSES The dates for the annual cemetery masses have been announced. Tullaherin Saturday, 2nd August 8pm. Bennettsbridge Sunday, 3rd August 10.30am Thomastown St Mary’s Cemetery Friday, 1st August 7.30pm JUNE COLLECTION FOR PRIESTS Thanks to everyone who has contributed to the June Collection for the priests of the parish.

Envelopes can be returned any weekend or handed into the parish house.

THANKSGIVING MASS FOR FIRST COMMUNION CHILDREN On Sunday last, the Feast of Corpus Christi, a special Thanksgiving Mass was celebrated in St Bennett’s Church, involving the First Communion Class of 2025. Children and parents took part in the liturgy and the children were dressed up in their First Communion outfits.

Thanks went to parents who co-ordinated the arrangements.

INVESTITURE CELEBRATION AT BENNETTSBRIDGE SCOUTS On Thursday evening, the 14th, Kilkenny Bennettsbridge scout group held its Investiture Ceremony to officially welcome new Beavers, Cubs, Scouts, and Scouters into the Bennettsbridge Scout Group. It was a lovely event, made even better by the fantastic weather.

Each of the new members proudly made their Scout Promise and joined our Scouting family, a special milestone for all involved. After the ceremony, all gathered in the Parish Hall where the adults enjoyed teas and coffees, while the kids made the most of the sunshine with ice lollies in hand. A big thank you to everyone who brought along cakes and buns – your support and generosity made it a truly enjoyable evening.

Welcome to all our new members – we’re delighted to have you on board and look forward to the adventures ahead!

TIDY TOWNS Thanks to the volunteers who are out and about in the village doing great work. Everywhere is looking good and it’s lovely to see window boxes on the main street. We are all asked to do our bit to help out. The approach roads are looking great with the grass verges being kept neat and tidy. A sweep outside the front door or business premises would be of great help. The village needs everyone to help out at this stage as judging for the Tidy Towns is

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New Away Jersey and Baseball Hat; Our new away jersey is now for sale online on the clubs O’Neill’s shop. A baseball hat has also now been added to the range . Go to the website and simply enter Bennettsbridge in the search box to see the New Jersey and all other Bridge gear for sale.

Split the Pot; The next draw takes place this Friday at 6 pm in the clubhouse. Thanks again for the continued support.

KILMACOW

Under 11 team from The Model School, Kilkenny NS which won their Cumann na mBunscoil final in UPMC Nowlan Park recently.

now in progress.

LOTTO There was no winner of the Jackpot. The numbers drawn were, 4, 7, 13, 25. Consolation prizes went to, BB Syndicate, Adrian Costigan, Grovine, Fiona Cleere, Woodlawn, Mary Mc Killen, Baronscourt, Noreen Tobin, Ballinaboola.

GATHERING A great morning was had when members were entertained by Liz Conlon on her accordion and enjoyed tasty eclairs from Liz Byrne. Before the group breaks for summer a visit to the Aboretum, Carlow is planned for this week.

ART GROUP Art sessions continue each Monday as artists continue to create material for their forthcoming exhibition during Kilkenny Arts Week. This annual collection has been gaining in popularity each year and attracts a wide range of art enthusiasts to the venue. The group is very appreciative of the support of KCETB during the year.

14th Kilkenny Bennettsbridge Scouts Ceremony

EAST END Katie Mulcahy represented Ireland with the Loreto Kilkenny U16 team at the 1st MADCUP School Cup in Madrid. Katie and her teammates competed at the Atlético de Madrid Training Complex on June 19th taking on the Spanish and Turkish champions.

Everyone at East End United is so proud of you, Katie you did yourself, your school, and your club proud.

GAA Football Feile 2025; Having won division one in Kilkenny, the Bennettsbridge under 15 football team are off to Derry this weekend to take part in the national Féile finals. The lads play Glen of Derry, Cavan Gaels and Boyle in the group.

We wish the very best of luck to all the players, management and supporters. Safe travelling and we hope everyone enjoys the weekend.

Signage Campaign; The Bennettsbridge Pitch signage campaign is well underway. This will be used to pay off the outstanding loan on

our development. A sub-committee has been formed so any businesses wishing to have their name advertised on the surrounding pitch wall should contact the sub-committee members Alan Flynn, or Alan Morrissey, The latest signs have been erected in the past week and look very impressive. Thanks to all the business owners who have supported so far.

Club Games; Well done to our under 14 hurlers who defeated Dicksboro in the Roinn A league in Palmerstown last week. Please see the Kilkenny GAA website for upcoming Bennettsbridge fixture details or changes. Best wishes also to Bennettsbridge players involved in various hurling and football squads at the minute.

Piltown Draw 2025; Thanks again to all who supported the draw this year, Draws two and three will take place on Thursday July 1st.

Summer camp 2025; This year’s summer camp will take place between August 5th and 8th in the Gaa grounds. Registration can be done at the clubhouse on June 25th between 7 and 8

TWINNING A group from Saint-Thurien will visit Kilmacow from Saturday, 19th July. This year’s visit is special as it will mark the 30th anniversary of the twinning of Kilmacow and Saint-Thurien in Sant-Thurien in 1995.

KILMACOW LOTTO The winning numbers in last week’s lotto, 19th June were 9, 14, 22 and 28. There were two Match 3 winners.

BOOK SALE Gayle Sutton (53 Chapelgate) will hold her annual book sale on Saturday and Sunday, 28th and 29th June, in aid of the fund set up to provide for the needs of Seán McCarthy who suffered a life-changing brain injury. Donations of books can be submitted to her at her house in Chapelgate or to her Mam, Maura Sutton, at Narabane.

MAINTENANCE OF OLD GRAVEYARD The working group for local graveyards will continue its work for this year at the Lower Street, Kilmacow from 2.00pm on Saturday, 28th June.

All offers of assistance appreciated.

CLEAN-UP Kilmacow Sports Complex will hold its annual clean-up of the ground and facilities on the evening of Saturday, 5th July. All offers of assistance welcome.

GEORGE BROWN The 18th annual memorial event will be held in Inistioge on Saturday, 28th June. It will commence at 12 noon with a talk by Larry Scallan on the Founding of the United Nations and Contemporary Ireland followed by Harry Owens who will talk on Ireland and International Relations. A wreath laying will follow in St. Colmcille’s Graveyard. After meeting up again in the Tea Rooms at Woodstock Garden there will be a wreath laying at 2.30pm in the Olive Grove with an address by George Lawlor TD. Two trees will be planted in the grounds. At 4.30pm there will

Scouts Investiture Ceremony

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Community & GAA Notes

Bennettsbridge Garda Station looking good following major work

be a recital by Graiguenamanagh Brass Band which will be followed by music with Caoimhe Kelly in the Woodstock Arms.

MULLINAVAT MULLINAVAT ACTIVE RETIREMENT GROUP A Mass for deceased members of Mullinavat Active Retirement will take place in St. Beacon’s Church at 10am on Tuesday, 8th July. Family members, relatives and friends are invited to attend. Refreshments will be served afterwards in the Community Centre.

MULLINAVAT MATTERS The next meeting of Mullinavat Matters will be held in the Community Centre at 8.00pm on Tuesday, 1st July. Among the issues on the agenda will be the installation of the new refuse

bin installed by the Area Office on the Main Street and the award of funding under Kilkenny County Council’s Anti-Litter Anti-Graffiti Grant Scheme. All welcome to attend.

MOONCOIN CANCER SUPPORT GROUP The Group will host a coffee morning from 10.30am to 12 noon on Sunday, 29th June.

All support welcome.

COIS NORE Cois Nore Outreach service will be visiting Thomastown every Thursday morning from 10am to 12 noon at the Thomastown Community Centre. Please call in to Aileen for a chat, cup of tea and support, or for registration to the free and confidential services available in the Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre in Walkin Street in Kilkenny. All enquires welcome from all of the surrounding areas.

Contributors to KCLR broadcast from Mullinavat with Brian Redmond

SIGNAGE AT BIGWOOD Kilkenny County Council has erected over the past year directional signage for Bigwood along the LP LP3424 from Mullinavat and at the junction LS7458 at Fahee and more recently a Bigwood sign at the junction of the local roads in the village. The area around the sign is being tended to by Bigwood Residents Association.

PLAYGROUND AT BIGWOOD Progress is being made on the development of the playground in Bigwood. Having initially received funding under the Community and Cultural Facilities Capital Grant Scheme in 2023 it more recently was awarded funding form the Department of Children, Disability, and Equality under the Capital Grant Scheme for Play and Disability. This element will allow the installation of a new wheelchair accessible roundabout and soft surfacing to encourage social and family play time for all abilities. The outcome should be a playground which is more accessible, inclusive and enjoyable for all.

FEATURE ON KCLR KCLR featured Mullinavat with the broadcast of Brian Redmond’s KCLR Daily Show from the Community Centre in Mullinavat on Monday, 23rd June. Among the contributors to the programme were Tom Duggan, Cllr. Jenny Catt Slattery, Marie Morrissey, Sandra Fitzpatrick, Jos Holden, Marian Duggan and Bea Flavin.

FERRYBANK LIBRARY The Library will host smart phone classes consisting of two mornings (10.00am to 12.30pm) and two afternoons (1.00pm to 3.30pm) on Tuesday, 8th July and Wednesday, 9th July, Please telephone 051 897 200 for more details and bookings.

BALLYRAGGET BALLYOUSKILL SADNESS AND SHOCK

New sign for Bigwood in the village 250623

The news of the Bishop’s decision to move Fr. Eamon O’Gorman from Ballyragget Lisdowney was met with great sadness and shock on Friday. The communities are both very angry and saddened by this move.

SYMPATHY Sympathies are sent to the Rocliffe family of Glenvale on the death of Stephen. May he rest in peace.

CEMETERY MASS The Cemetery mass in Donughmore will be held on July 4th at 7.30 and in Rossconnell on July 11th at 7.30

CABARET A Cabaret for the Ballyragget/Ballyouskill Lourdes Fundwill be held in the Wheel Inn Ballyouskill Sunday 13th of July 2025 LAOIS ROSE A cabaret will be held to support Katelyn Cummins in her quest to be the Rose of Tralee on July 19th in the Wheel Inn music by Aisling Rafftery with a monster raffle proceeds will be divided between the Jack and Jill Foundarion and the Laois Rose 2025 COIS NORE OUTREACH The Cois Nore Outreach service will be visiting Ballyragget every Monday morning from 10am to 12 noon at Dr Hogan’s Rooms, the Square, Ballyragget. Please call in to Aileen for a chat, cup of tea and support, or for registration to the free and confidential services available in the Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre in Walkin Street in Kilkenny. All enquiries welcome.

URLINGFORD EMERALDS URLINGFORD AND GRAINE LOTTO The June 16th prize fund was €5,800. Jackpot: €3,800. Numbers drawn: 7, 16, 21, 23 , bonus number 15. There was one match three winner: Ben Lawless. Five lucky dips of €20 each: Katie Doheny, James Leahy, William Campion, Breda Hickey, Norah Hickey. Promoters prize: J. Holohan.

MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE - URLINGFORD Save the date, Family Fun Day 17th August 1.30 – 4.30pm in aid of our Counselling and Play Therapy Services.

SOME OF THE SERVICES AVAILABLE AT THE CENTRE. Senior Alert Alarms. Clothes Donations. Youth Club. Counselling and Play Therapy. Allotments.

Cois Nore Advice Clinic. For more information, contact us on 056-8838466.

URLINGFORD ARMS SPLIT THE POT The June 22nd winner of Split the Pot is Sarah Kavanagh who received €864. Congrats Sarah on behalf of Urlingford NS Parents’ Association.

Tickets €2 on sale in participating businesses in town. Thanks to everyone for their continued support. Next week’s draw is for Urlingford Lawn Green Bowls. Please support.

GRAINE CARDS Progressive 25 card game in Graine Hall every Wednesday night at 8pm sharp. All are welcome.

URLINGFORD NEWS

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HUGGINSTOWN NEWMARKET STONEYFORD MASS TIMES IN AGHAVILLER PARISH Hugginstown: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 9.30a.m. Vigil - Saturday 28th. at 8.00p.m. Sunday 29th. at 10.00a.m.

Stoneyford: Vigil - Saturday 28th. at 6.30p.m.

Friday 27th. Feast of The Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. Saturday 28th.

Feast of The Immaculate Heart of Mary.

PRAY FOR Anniversary Masses: Patricia Sheehan: Stoneyford: Mass in Stoneyford Church on Saturday 28th. June at 6.30p.m. James and Ellen Duggan, Boolyglass: Mass in Hugginstown Church on Saturday 28th. June at 8.00p.m. Dick O’Gorman, Hugginstown: Mass in Hugginstown Church on Sunday 29th. June at 10.00a.m.

ROTA (FEAST OF ST. PETER AND PAUL) Reader Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Neill O’Grady, Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. John Barron: Sunday 10.00a.m. Mary Carroll. Eucharistic Ministers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m.

Jakub Smolen. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00pm.

Mary Murphy; Sunday 10.00am. Lillian Carr JUNE COLLECTION The “June Collection 2025” for the support of the priests of the Parish and the Diocese will be taken up during the months of June/July.

Envelopes for this collection are available at the back of the Church. (To donate directly.)

Use IBAN: IE19 AIBK 9330 9000 0561 20 (BIC: AIBKIE2D). All Parish Property and Accounts are registered under the (Diocese of Ossory, Reg. Charity No. 20015831) KILKENNY OLDER PEOPLE COUNCIL The AGM of Kilkenny Older Peoples Council will be held in the Rivercourt Hotel, John Street, Kilkenny on Tuesday 1st. July 2025, commencing with registration at 10.30am. The election of the new Executive Committee will also be held at this AGM. Older People from Kilkenny City and County are welcome to attend. RSVP to agefriendlykilkenny@kilkennycoco.ie or 056 779 4289.

LOTTO Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. Draw: Monday 16th. June 2025. Numbers: 22; 28; 15; 08. No Winner of First 3 Numbers Drawn: No Jackpot Winner: €30.00. Winners: Eddie Fitzpatrick, Lismatigue; Majella Driscoll, c/o Mary Moyle. Eoghan Lyng, The Rower; Conor Walsh, c/o Pat Fitzgerald; Deirdre Lowry, Camross. 3 x €15.00 (Sellers): Mary Carroll; James Irish; Trish Power.

SAFEGUARDING IN THE DIOCESE OF OSSORY Diocesan Designated Liaison Person: Ms. Ailish Higgins Tel: 087 100 0232. Aghaviller Parish Representatives are: Deirdre Rohan and Catherina Roche.

NEWMARKET SCHOOL A book celebrating the Centenary of Newmarket School is available to purchase in Fitzgerald’s Shop, Hugginstown.

WORKSHOP ON SYNODALITY A special weekend workshop on Synodality, will take place on 28th and 29th June 2025 at the Focolare Centre in Prosperous, Co. Kildare. This event is inspired by the international formation programme coordinated by the Evangelii Gaudium Centre at Sophia University Institute (Italy), in collaboration with the General Secretariat of the Synod in Rome and will offer both theological depth and practical tools for fostering a synodal Church at local level. The workshop is open to all clergy, religious, lay leaders, pastoral council members and parishioners.

DATES TO REMEMBER IN THE PARISH FOR 2025 Mass will be celebrated in Stoneyford Cemetery on Friday 4th. July at 8.00p.m. Mass will be celebrated in Hugginstown Cemetery on Saturday 5th. July at 8.00p.m. Mass will be celebrated in Sheepstown Cemetery on Friday 18th. July at 7.30p.m.

Tom Healy

Progress on the new playground at Bigwood

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JOHNSTOWN MRS NAN HENDERSON (NEE WALLACE) The death occurred peacefully at her home, Rathdowney Road, of Nan Henderson in her 98th year. Nan was born in Liverpool to Irish parents. She came to Ballingarry as a young evacuee in the second world war. She later returned to England and it was there she met her late husband Tom and they eventually came back to Tubrid and later settled in Johnstown.

Nan was predeceased in 1978 by her son Joe as a result of a road accident and in later years by her husband Tom. She will be sadly missed by her sons Pat, Jimmy and Tom, daughter Peg, grandchildren, great grandchildren, daughters in law, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and a wide circle of friends. Requiem Mass was celebrated in St. Kieran’s Church with burial afterwards in Johnstown Cemetery.

CHURCH NEWS The parishioners of Johnstown/Crosspatrick, Galmoy , Urlingford /Graine were sad to hear that their Parish Priest Fr. Ollie Maher is being changed to the parishes of Ballyragget/Lisdowney and Conahy. Fr. Ollie was very well liked in the parish cluster and Ballyragget’s gain is our loss. He is wished all the very best in his new posting. The incoming parish priest Fr. Eamonn O’Gorman is welcomed to the parish cluster.

June offerings for the priests are now due.

CEMETERY MASSES Tubrid Thursday July 3rd, Galmoy Friday July 4th, Killahy Monday July 7th, Johnstown Tuesday July 8th, Kildrenagh Wednesday. July 9th, Clomantagh Thursday July 10th and Grangefertagh Thursday July 17th. All masses 7.30pm.

RETIREMENT In recognition of 30 years of dedicated service provided by Drs. Pat and Eilis Maher, Marie Egan and Mary Fogarty a retirement celebration will be held in St. Kieran’s Hall on Saturday July 5th at 8.30pm. Refreshments served and music by Sweet Freedom and all are welcome.

COMMUNITY HALL DRAW The annual 500 club draw in aid of the upkeep of the community hall will commence soon.

Tickets € 10 per month for six months and can be purchased from the local shops or any committee member. Your support would be greatly appreciated as this is a vital source of income for the running of the hall.

FAMILY FIELD FESTIVAL This year’s festival was an overwhelming success and the weather very much added to the

day. Winners of the festival raffle were 1. Gerald McCormack, 2. Sean O’Gorman, 3. John Wilson, 4. Catherine Colleton, 5. Killian Fitzpatrick. 6.

Deirdre Joyce and 7. Marie and David Hickey.

The winner of the trailer load of blocks was Corey Butler. Dog show winners are Mairead Duggan, Ruth O’Higgins, Ben Delaney, Sinead Curran, Mary Killeen, Niamh Delaney, Fiona Hayde, Clodagh/Oisin Beehan, Brid Shortall, Chloe Phelan, Kate Walsh, Killian Tobin, Caleb Butler, Olivia Day, Denis D’Arcy, Joan Hayde, Adel Kehoe, Areannah O’Connor, Robin Upsdell, Catriona Brennan, Julie Murphy, Melissa O’Sullivan.

Sincere thanks to the army of people who helped out before, after and on the day. Your help was vital to ensure the smooth running of the festival.

ST. ANNE’S CAMOGIE CLUB Congratulations to St. Anne’s U15 Camogie team who were the outright winners of the National Cup Final of Feile 2025. Eight teams competed in the finals coming from Limerick, Galway, Cork, Tipperary and Kilkenny and St. Anne’s came out victorious in the end defeating ourTipperary neighbours Moyne/Templetouhy.

A great win for the team, their trainers and parents. Many thanks to all involved.

SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO The winning numbers were10,23,26,27. There was no jackpot winner and no match three winner. The four lucky dips were Eoin Ryan, Pippa Virgo, Finland Virgo and Mary Garrett.

GORTNAHOE GLENGOOLE EUCHARISTIC ADORATION Glengoole Wednesday 10am to 2pm, Gortnahoe Thursday 10am to 1pm. The rosary is recited before Mass in Glengoole every Saturday evening.

ROSARY The Rosary will be recited at Our Lady’s Grotto, Glengoole on weekday evenings at 6pm, Saturday before 6pm Mass and Sunday 12 noon. .

CEMETERY MASSES The following dates has been set for the annual cemetery masses in the parish. All mass times will be at 7.30pm. Tuesday 8th July, Ballinalackin cemetery, Thursday 10th July, Good Shepherd cemetery, Thursday 31st July, Fennor cemetery and Tuesday 12th August, Boulick cemetery.

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

TUESDAY BRIDGE Bridge is being played each Tuesday night in

Gortnahoe Hall at 7.30pm. If you would like to join or find out more information please contact this number 089 434910 SPLIT THE POT Congratulations to Sinead Dunne, who won €223 in the Split the Pot draw last Sunday.

Envelopes are available in Cahill’s Gortnahoe, Hogans Grange and at the usual outlets, you can also Revolut to 0876777220. For the month of June Split the Pot will be in support of Gortnahoe Playschool. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated.

CONAHY HURLING The under-14 hurlers had another close game in the Roinn C League when they made a long trip to Tullogher to play Tullogher-Rosbercon.

It was a high scoring game, with some excellent scores from both teams. In the end, the home side were winners by five points, 1-20 to Conahy’s 1-15.

CAMOGIE Conahy Shamrocks Camogie was well represented on the Kilkenny Under-23 team that drew with Galway in the All-Ireland Championship in UPMC Nowlan Park on Saturday last.

Sofia Kerr, Amy Brennan, Ellen Gunner, Emma Mulhall and Katie Brennan were all part of the Kilkenny panel - well done to them all.

CLUB LOTTO The numbers drawn in the most recent GAA Lotto draw were 2, 29 and 42. There was no winner of the €1,200 jackpot so the consolation prize winners were Padraic Healy, Tony Duggan, Nora Delaney, Liam White and Margaret Dunne.

The promoter prize winners were Larry Bergin, Anne Downey and David Maher. Many thanks to everyone who continues to support the GAA Club Lotto.

KNOCK SHRINE PILGRIMAGE A local pilgrimage to Knock Shrine will take place on Saturday, June 28th. A bus will leave Freshford at 7.30 a.m., arriving and then departing at Jackmans in Jenkinstown at 8.00 a.m., before doing similarly in Ballyragget at 8.15 a.m. Please book a place as soon as possible if wishing to attend by contacting 056-7767676 or 086-3655418. The cost of the bus fare is €30.

COIS NORE OUTREACH SUPPORT Cois Nore Outreach cancer support service will be visiting Ballyragget every Monday morning from 10am to 12 noon at the Dr Hogan’s Rooms, the Square in Ballyragget and in Castlecomer on Wednesday mornings from 10am to 12 noon at the Old Court house, Kilkenny Street, Castlecomer. Please call in to Aileen for a chat, cup of tea and support, or for registration to the free and confidential services available in the Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre in Walkin Street in

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

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The Kilkenny Observer 27th June 2025

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Camogie - Review

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Glen Dimplex AllIreland Senior Camogie Championship Kilkenny 0-12 Galway 1-17 UPMC Nowlan Park Kilkenny slumped to a second defeat in group 2 of this season’s Glen Dimplex All-Ireland Senior Camogie Championship following a disappointing performance against Galway in UPMC Nowlan Park last Saturday. Manager Tommy Shefflin will know that his charges will need to regroup ahead of the commencement of the knockout phase of action which now lies ahead for the Stripeywomen following the completion of their group fixtures.

As it stands, Cork looks to have secured direct passage to the semi-final stage, while the Group 2 winners and second last four side will be decided this weekend when Waterford head west to tackle Galway, the Deise have a superior scoring advantage, should spoils be shared.

Getting back to local matters, our senior camogs failed to build on a good win over Dublin when going down by eight points to the Tribeswomen. Playing with the aid of a strong breeze in the opening period, Shefflin’s ladies failed to get enough scores to give themselves anything to hold onto, and their return of just twelve points over the hour was never in truth going to be enough to secure a third victory of the round robin phase.

The visitors got off to a fast start when a Carrie Dolan picked out Sabina Rabbitte who outpaced Tiffinie Fitzgerald whose pressure prevented a possible major, as the ball went over the bar. From the restart, Galway pressurised the home defence, turned the ball over and worked it to Oranmore’s Ailish O’Reilly who split the posts from a central position to make it 0-2 to no score early doors on Noreside. Kilkenny opened their account with almost 4 minutes on the clock, thanks to a well taken point from Thomastown’s Sarah Barcoe who following a ruck picked up possession before firing over off her left side. The hosts drew level just before the ten-minute mark when captain Katie Power collected a long delivery and popped a pass to Caoimhe Keher Murtagh and the Rower Inisitioge player pointed from an acute angle.

Galway skipper, Carrie Dolan then converted a placed ball effort just ahead of back-to-back scores from

Galway canter to easy win on Noreside

Katie Power on the move

Croker next forLackluster Stripeywomen

Plenty to ponder Shefflin has thinking to do

the Stripeywomen. Aoife Norris used the elements to send the ball in the danger zone where Katie Power challenged for possession. As the ball broke, Keher Murtagh reacted quickest to notch her second point of the day. The influential Kilkenny

captain then won a free following a high challenge and this gave Aoife Prendergast the opportunity to open her account with a placed ball into the Hebron Road end of the ground to nudge her side ahead mid-way through the opening half.

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Camogie - Review Aoife Prendergast vital from placed balls

and Dicksboro’s Aoife Prendergast converted the resulting free, having missed her previous two efforts to level matters once more with what would be the home sides last point of a low scoring half. The maroon clad team then went in search of the lead and would in fact go one better than that. Sarah Healy’s puck out was claimed and the sliotar moved quickly to the even quicker Aoife Donohue who blazed away from the black and amber defence before splitting the posts from the top of the ‘D’.

Some strong running from Olwen Rabbitte saw the Athenry player work the ball to the supporting Ciara Hickey who had burst forward from wing back before rifling over from 45 metres out. As the short whistle sounded, Galway went into the changing rooms, 2 points to the good.

This game echoed that of the opening round defeat to Waterford when again despite playing with the wind at their back Kilkenny struggled to take scores. Tommy Shefflin would have drummed it onto his side that they needed to be more clinical, and they started the second period with a little bit of purpose. Katie Power sent over the first score after the interval, the Piltown woman firing over having been set up by Mary O’Connell. The Clara player then showed great battling to win a free which Prendergast popped over to deadlock matters once more.

Aoife Donohoe then dispossessed her opponent and headed for goal. A Couple of Kilkenny players tried to hold her up, but referee Ray Kelly awarded a free to the travelling side which Clarinbridge’s Carrie Dolan converted. The Galway captain then started the move which led to her teams next score, flicking the ball in the direction of Sabina Rabbitte who accelerated away before passing to Mairead Dillon who popped over from a central position to leave her side two ahead. Dicksboro’s Aoife Prendergast was then fouled and duly converted the free awarded by the Kildare whistler.

As Kilkenny tried to work the ball out of defence, their opponents harried and forced another turnover which resulted in the Mullagh’s Aoife Donohoue working

the angle to fire over. Tiffinie Fitzgerald, who had been booked earlier in the second half, was then adjudged to have fouled, which not only resulted in another placed ball point for Carrie Dolan, but another quiet word to the Young Ireland’s player from the referee.

The next score also came from the Tribeswomen. Sarsfields Caoimhe Kelly had barely been on the pitch a minute when she struck over a lovely point. With 47 minutes on the clock, Aoife Prendergast sent over a couple of placed ball efforts to reduce the deficit, but Anthenry’s Sabina Rabbitte pointed to leave Galway three to the good as the game approached the last ten minutes.

You very much sensed that Shefflin’s charges needed to raise a green flag to get back into the contest, but it was the westerners that increased their lead courtesy of a brace from their captain, the vastly experienced Carrie Dolan. Sophie Holden, Kellyann Doyle, Miriam Bambrick, Asha McHardy and former All-Star Katie Nolan had all entered the fray as Kilkenny sought to halt the Galway momentum, but it would be Cathal Murray’s team that registered the next score, a fine effort from former Portaferry and Down star, Niamh Mallon. One of the Marble City side’s better performers on the day, Laura Murphy then pointed as the visitors lead stood at five points with about three minutes of normal time remaining.

Galway were not to be caught on their trip to Noreside and the impressive Carrie Dolan swung over a lovely point from play before the westerners put the icing on the cake came shortly after. A long ball pumped into the Kilkenny defence saw Caoimhe Kelly and Michelle Teehan tussle for possession and again those in black and amber lost the battle. The loose ball was collected by the recently introduced Niamh Niland who headed for goal along the endline before striking her shot past the helpless Aoife Norris. The home side did strike the last score of the group 2 fixture, another placed ball effort from Aoife Prendergast, but it was no more than consolation for the home side. Final score, Kilkenny 0-12, Galway 1-17.

>> SHERRY SAYS...

Aoife Norris couldn’t prevent the Galway major

Cathal Murray’s side then fired over a brace of scores of their own, two frees from captain and Clarinbridge player Carrie Dolan as the women from the west regained the lead. Referee Ray Kelly then blew Ballinderreen’s Emma Helebert for over carrying

A disappointing end to Kilkenny senior camogs group 2 campaign last weekend as a flat performance from the Stripeywomen saw them slip to a second defeat in the round robin stage. Despite this, Tommy Shefflin’s charges will head to Croke Park next weekend for a quarter final encounter. Their opponents will be known in the next couple of days.

As mentioned, 0-12 doesn’t win you many games at this level, and in truth a hungrier and more expansive Galway side emerged with a deserved victory. The girls need to regroup, refocus and work out how they can reach the level we all know they are capable of.

Hopefully the management team can settle on their first choice starting XV and the girls have faith in their ability to deliver results.

It’s knockout from here on in, so leave it all on the pitch ladies.

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Planning notices

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL We, Arthur & Mary Byrne, hereby intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Planning Permission for (1) demolition of an existing single storey domestic garage (2) construct a new single storey extension to the rear of the existing dwelling house and a new single storey extension to the side of the existing dwelling house to include provision of a single storey family flat (3) upgrade the existing wastewater treatment system (4) internal and external alterations (5) alterations to existing driveway and (6) all associated site works at 1 Lavistown Park, Kilkenny, Co. Kilkenny, R95 TXP0.

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

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

The Kilkenny Observer 27th June 2025

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

FRANK AND NELLIE MALONE ANNIVERSARIES Frank Malone 23rd Anniversary

Nellie Malone 18th Anniversary

In loving memory of Frank and Nellie late of Wolfe Tone Street, Kilkenny whose anniversaries occur at this time.

Time and years slip gently by But love and memories never die

JOSEPHINE RYAN 11TH ANNIVERSARY

GERALDINE RYAN BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE

ELLEN DELANEY 10TH ANNIVERSARY

In loving memory of Josephine Ryan, Greenfields, Freshford Road, Kilkenny whose 11th anniversary occurs at this time.

Loved and missed every day.

Birthday remembrance of Geraldine Ryan, Greenfields, Freshford Road, Kilkenny whose birthday occurs at this time.

In loving memory of our dear Mother Ellen, late of 16 McAuley Place, Kilkenny who died on June 27th 2015.

Missed and loved daughter Nini, sons Eoghan & Niall sisters and brothers, grandchildren, daughter-in-law Jenny and her many many friends.

They say there is a reason They say time will heal But neither time nor reason Will change the way we feel

Phil, Fran, Martin, Anne, Richard grandchildren and great grandchildren R.I.P

R.I.P

Always remembered by Val, Marie Lily and families

When days are sad and lonely And everything goes wrong We seem to hear you whisper Cheer up and carry on Always remembered by her daughters Kathleen, Theresa and family.

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.K.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. MJD.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.M.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.B.

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The Kilkenny Observer 27th June 2025

Classifieds Motors

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

087 2587745

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The Kilkenny Observer 27th June 2025