Kilkenny Observer 29th July 2022 by Kilkenny Observer

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Friday 29 July 2022

Refugees Crisis Welcome but there’s no room at the inn  Marianne Heron, page 12

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The Cody Years Time for us to reflect as Brian calls time  Sport, pages 40 &41

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Foster care scandal

A senior social worker was found to be responsible for professional misconduct and poor professional performance over the inappropriate placing of children in foster homes and a failure to notify Tusla about child protection issues. A fitness to practise inquiry by Coru — the regulatory body of health and social care professionals — found

a series of allegations proven about John Martin, the former director of fostering services at Fresh Start, a Carlow-based childcare service provider. It followed a public inquiry held over eight days between November 2021 and March 2022 which examined complaints about Mr Martin which were first notified to Coru in 2017. Those complaints arose from the find-

ings of highly critical reports by the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) following inspections of Fresh Start. Coru’s Professional Conduct Committee examined 17 different allegations which related to children placed in care in foster homes in the mid-Leinster area. Evidence was heard that many of the placements end-

ed abruptly, with some cases requiring Gardaí to make emergency care orders. In one of the main findings, the committee said it was professional misconduct and poor professional performance of Mr Martin to place seven children in a foster home on dates between January 2015 and February 2016 when he knew it was inappropriate and contrary to an

agreement reached with Tusla at a meeting on December 18, 2014. The inquiry heard several of the children had complex needs. The committee’s chairperson, Susan Ahern, said Mr Martin knew from the meeting no further children should be placed with a certain foster family until concerns that had been raised about them had been addressed.

Gerry Moran joins Observer

Gerry Moran, a former Principal of the De La Salle school, joins The Kilkenny Observer today as a weekly columnist and opinion writer. Gerry joins our stable of regular and informed columnists to bring you incisive opinion and comment every Friday in your favourite paper. The best comment and opinion are in The Kilkenny Observer. This week, Gerry writes about his life-long friendship with the legendary Brian Cody. See Page 20

Ukraine grain set to sail The first ships to export Ukraine grain from the country’s Black Sea ports may move within a few days, a UN spokesperson has said. The move is under a deal agreed on by Ukraine, Russia, Turkey and the UN. A joint co-ordination centre will liaise with the shipping industry and will publish detailed procedures for ships in the near future, said a UN spokesperson. See also Page 6

When dinosaurs roamed Kilkenny!

Cabinet deadlock over climate

A real-life Jurassic Park is coming to Kilkenny! Dinosaurs will once again roam the land as the creative team at the 4-star Newpark Hotel, located on 25 acres of parkland, is creating a prehistoric habitat called ‘Jurassic Newpark’ Full story, Page 4

Siptu to consider spike action The trade union Siptu says its members across the public service will begin a consultation exercise in advance of ballots for industrial action. The union is accusing the Government of failing to conclude an acceptable review of the pay provisions of the ‘Building Momentum’ Public Service Agreement. EVERY FRIDAY

The consultation will involve union members and activists in the health service, local government, education and the state sectors in the coming weeks. In March, public sector unions and staff association triggered a review clause in ‘Building Momentum’ due to rising inflation.

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Public sector pay talks were held at the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) in June but ended without agreement. The Government had offered a 2.5% pay increase this year and a further 2.5% next year but unions rejected the deal saying it ‘fell far short’ of inflation. The Government has pointed

out, however, that the 5% pay rise offered to unions comes on top of a 2% increase already provided for in the existing public sector pay deal. Earlier last month, union leaders announced plans for a coordinated campaign on public sector pay which may include ballots for industrial action.

Warning on new Covid EU member states should start preparing now for a new wave of the Covid-19 pandemic in autumn and winter, the bloc’s health chief has said, saying there had been a “worrying increase” in outbreaks. European Commissioner for Health Stella Kyriakides also warned there was no room for complacency, saying the pandemic was not over.

The Cabinet Committee on Climate is deadlocked over reaching a final agreement on the target for agricultural emissions reduction. However, all sides remain hopeful that agreement can be reached by the end of this week. Meetings are described as “constructive” and further engagement is due to take place over the coming days. Full story, Page 10

INSIDE

Paul Hopkins.............................P8 Marianne Heron.................... P12 John Ellis ................................ P16 Health & Science................... P18 Travel & Leisure.................... P19 Gerry Cody..............P24, 26 & 30 Food & Drink.......................... P34 TV & Streaming.................... P35 Sport.....................................P40-43

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GETTING IN TOUCH WITH THE TEAM

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News A real-life Jurassic Park is coming to Kilkenny! Dinosaurs will once again roam the land as the creative team at the 4-star Newpark Hotel, which is located on 25 acres of parkland and known as one of Ireland’s top family break destinations, is creating a prehistoric habitat called ‘Jurassic Newpark’. The Park, which will open to visitors at the end of July, will be home to a number of lifesize dinosaur species, which have been extinct for more than 66 million years, including Tyrannosaurus Rex, Triceratops, Stegosaurus, Brachiosaurus, Velociraptor, and dinosaur eggs, making it a dino-mite experience for any Dinosaur fan! Hotel guests booked in for the coming weeks may even get a sneak peek at some of the Jurassic Newpark dinosaur discovery as they enjoy the existing wildlife farm and fairy trail. Sharing the news of their secret dinosaur breeding programme to bring giant prehistoric reptiles back to Kilkenny, General Manager of Newpark Hotel Paul Beehan jokingly said: “I am delighted to announce our successful venture into paleo genetic engineering, a little skill we picked up during lockdown. We’ve been busy harnessing dinosaur DNA from local ‘black and amber’ fossils to create a new dinosaur park in Ireland! Newpark Hotel is creating a safe and secure habitat

There be giant dinosaurs at Newpark... for the dinosaurs and an interactive walk-through experience for visitors, which will officially open from August. The space will be

similar to the paddocks depicted in the Jurassic Park movies (but without the escaping dinosaurs or ensuing carnage).

It will feature ‘electric fenced in enclosures’ for the carnivorous predators including the fearsome ‘king of the dinosaurs’ Tyran-

VIP guest: one of our prehistoric friends with Deputy General Manager Niall Dunne and Director of Sales & Marketing Joanna Hannick, Newpark Hotel

nosaurus Rex and the dangerous and yet fascinating Velociraptor, with its signature curved claw on each toe for pinning prey! There

will also be large fenced in open paddocks for the plant eating herbivores including the distinctive three horned Triceratops, armoured Stegosaurus with plates along its spine, and the long necked majestic Brachiosaurus. These paddocks will be linked with accessible trails, with fantastic photo ops along the way and Park Rangers who will give informative talks about the different dinosaurs. The tagline for Jurassic Newpark is ‘not just a walk in the park’ and that is certainly apt as designing habitats to display ‘live’ dinosaurs is no small undertaking. Preparations for the launch of this new dino themed attraction include reallocation of space in the hotel grounds, major landscaping work, and extensive planting to create a lush natural habitat with an authentic prehistoric feel. This project involves a financial investment of in excess of €250,000 and will create 10 new jobs. Newpark Hotel is a 4-star family run establishment in Kilkenny, part of the Flynn Hotel Collection. The stylish hotel offers spacious deluxe family rooms perfect for two adults and two children, while the luxury superior rooms cater for families with three children. * For more visit NewparkHotelhotelkilkenny.com or jurassicnewpark.com

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

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News

Russian gold exports targeted in sanctions update EU countries have targeted Russian gold exports and froze assets at Russia’s largest bank in an update to the sanctions imposed to punish Moscow for its invasion of Ukraine. “The main goal is to align with G7 partners, reinforce the implementation and close the loopholes where necessary,” the Czech Government,

which holds the EU’s rotating presidency, tweeted. The EU has so far approved six packages of sanctions on Russia. The last one passed in June imposed a ban on most Russian oil imports. As she proposed the measures to member states last week, EU commission president Ursula von der

Leyen said the measures would help enforce earlier sanctions more effectively and extend them until January 2023. “Moscow must continue to pay a high price for its aggression,” she added. The embargo on gold imports fulfils a decision agreed by the world’s most industrialised

nations at a G7 meeting in late June in which EU-members Germany, France and Italy took part. The sanctions will also freeze the assets of Russian bank Sberbank and add several personalities and entities to its blacklist. The measures also unblock assets at Russian banks linked

to trade in food and fertiliser in an effort to respond to Moscow allegations that the sanctions are causing a food crisis. This was a “commitment that sanctions won’t endanger the food and energy security around the world,” the Czech government said. Crucial shipments across the

Black Sea have been blocked both by Russian warships and mines Kyiv has laid to avert a feared amphibious assault. The food shortages have raised the risk of famine for tens of millions of people in poorer nations, particularly in Africa, where leaders have complained to the EU about the banking sanctions.

Bill sought that would update the rape laws The Minister for Justice will seek Cabinet approval for a Bill to strengthen the law on consent, knowledge and belief in rape cases. The bill would change the current situation where a man is not guilty of rape if he believed that he had the consent of a woman. Under the new proposals, the accused’s defence that he believed she was consenting has to be objectively reasonable. This means juries should have regard to the steps the accused took to check whether the woman is consenting, as well as the accused’s decision-making capacity at that time. The bill would also include the provision that self-induced intoxication would not be a defence to a charge of rape in relation to an accused’s capacity to understand if he did have consent. The Sexual Offences and Human Trafficking Bill progresses policy commitments made by Minister for Justice Helen McEntee in her key plans entitled Supporting a Victim’s Journey and Zero Tolerance; the third national strategy on domestic, sexual and gender-based violence. Under current law, the accused’s own subjectively honest but mistaken belief that the woman was consenting is a defence to rape. The Bill would also provide for anonymity for victims and the accused in all trials for sexual offences and not just in rape trials. This was a recommendation of the O’Malley Review of Protections for Vulnerable Witnesses

in the Investigation and Prosecution of Sexual Offences conducted by an expert working group, led by Professor Tom O’Malley. Meanwhile, there can be a chilling effect on victims if a person in a “position of standing” engages in coercive control, Chief Executive of Women’s Aid Sarah Benson has said. Describing legislation surrounding coercive control as a “game changer”, she said victims of abuse who come forward show “extraordinary strength”. Ms Benson was speaking on RTÉ’s Morning Ireland after a Garda who tortured and terrorised a woman ill with cancer was sentenced to three-and-a-quarteryears in prison. Paul Moody, who was stationed at Irishtown Garda Station in Dublin, pleaded guilty to a charge of coercive control of the woman. The 42-year-old beat, kicked, punched and choked the woman over a two-and-a-half-year period, as well as sending her over 31,000 threatening, abusive, degrading and demeaning texts and phone communications. Ms Benson said all coercive control cases going through the courts are significant as they are based on recent legislation. She said: “Coercive control is not about a single incident. It is about a pattern of behaviour. “It is about a persistent and multifaceted way of targeting somebody to wear them down and in many instances it does not have to include physical or sexual abuse, although it can,” said Ms Benson.

Anne Sofie von Otter for Arts Festival Mezzo-soprano Anne Sofie von Otter is one of the most acclaimed singers of her generation, a multi-award-winning performer and recording artist who over the course of four decades has been a luminous presence on the world’s major stages, performing leading operatic roles and shining in concert and recital. Her repertoire embraces everything from arias to contemporary pop songs, and her thirst for collaboration led her to Brooklyn Rider,

the adventurous string quartet with whom she has performed songs by everyone from Caroline Shaw to Björk. Now, the Arts Festival is thrilled to welcome von Otter and Brooklyn Rider to Kilkenny with an unmissable new project. Songs of Love and Death pairs Schubert with brand-new works by Rufus Wainwright, whose modern-day operatic torch songs are the perfect complement to Schubert’s exquisite lieder of love, death and despair.

This year’s programme includes: Rufus Wainwright: Trois Valses Anglaises, arr. Rob Moose (Irish Premiere) Franz Schubert: String Quartet no. 14, Death and the Maiden, D 531 Franz Schubert: from Winterreise, D 911, arr. Osvaldo Golijov ‘Der Tod und das Mädchen’ ‘Der Wegweiser’ ‘Die Nebensonnen’ ‘Einsamkeit’ Rufus Wainwright: Three Songs for Lulu, arr. Rob Moose For full festival events see https://www.kilkennyarts.ie/programme

Have your say in nursing’s future strategy The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI) is inviting the people of Kilkenny to participate in an open consultation process which will inform the organisation’s new strategy. NMBI is in the process of developing its next strategy which will run from 2023 to 2025. An independent, statutory organisation, NMBI is the regulatory body for nursing and midwifery in Ireland and works with nurses, midwives and educators to protect the public by promoting excellence and progression within the professions.

For the coming six weeks, anyone who has an interest in nursing and midwifery or in healthcare in general can have their say in shaping NMBI’s next strategic plan. A survey is available for people to complete at https://forms. office.com/r/JE2Z9qajUD. The closing date for submitting your feedback is 5.00pm on Wednesday, 7 September 2022. The first phase of the consultation has already been completed and involved engagements with a wide range of key representative groups from the sector. The

process examined how NMBI can further enhance patient and service user safety through regulation, how registrants can be best supported and what policy areas should be prioritised. This second phass sees the consultation process open to a wider group of voices, soliciting opinions from registrants, patients and service users, as well as stakeholder groups and the general public on the direction that NMBI should be taking for the coming years. NMBI CEO Sheila McClelland said: “Nursing and midwifery

plays such a vital role in our society and that’s why we want to ensure our next strategy can maintain the high standards of care our professions are renowned for. “We are open to opinions and feedback and want to have as wide a consultation process as possible. We are calling on registrants, patients and service users, as well as stakeholder groups and the general public to let us know what you think and inform the future strategy of the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland.”

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

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Opinion

The Fact Of OfThe Matter PAUL HOPKINS

Why the weather is our magnificent obsession At the beginning of July, half way through the summer, there was little suggestion any kind of a decent Irish summer, despite conflicting forecasts. Small wonder they were tripping over themselves at the airport to find a place in the sun. Then came the global scorcher. The heatwave. All of which begs the question, what is it, this obsession of ours with the weather? When it’s hot, it’s “very hot, isn’t it?” and when it’s cold or wet or windy it’s just downright miserable. How many times have you heard phrases such as: “There’s right drying out today” or “It’s to turn bad at the weekend”? And when it snows it’s a great excuse to close down schools or take a day off work. We’re obsessed with climate though, sadly, not necessarily with climate change and its potential powers of destruction on future generations.

At the bus stop, in the taxi, in the lift, bumping unexpectedly into people we know on the street, the talk is of the weather. Maybe it’s a way of getting over any initial awkwardness of being in close proximity with our fellow beings while avoiding being intimate. We have a considerable cache of clichés in our lexicon that is strictly weather-wise: It’s a soft day, thank God; raining cats and dogs; mmm, that cloud doesn’t look too good; I’d bring the brolly if I were you — just in case. And now our obsession with the weather is official: a new survey has revealed that the weather is the subject we think about the most. We might like to think we could find this surprising but we, let’s face it, we don’t. The survey, by Ipsos MRBI and Dulux Weathershield, says 60% of people talk about the weather twice a day and 25% of people chat about

it at least four times in a day. The research also found that 62% of Irish people believe every forecast they see online or hear on TV. We all remember the winter of 2010 when we were practically snowed in and there was nothing on television except countless news reports about the state of the weather, loads of random facts about the North Pole melting down on top of us and, of course, the hilarious video of that poor man who tripped himself on some ice during the RTE news. Dare I suggest it is wrong that we still find this completely hilarious? Our obsession is perhaps due, in part, to the fact that we are predominantly an increasingly urban society and our climate is so relatively temperate that we seem to have no collective feel for the traits of the seasons. Despite all the fond sentimentality about this green and pleasant land, few

of us have much real contact with the natural world. A smaller proportion of the population works in agriculture than in almost any other country of the European Union. More of us live in cities than is the norm for other Europeans. Even in comparatively small country towns where local, and therefore seasonal, produce ought to be available, we pick our fruit and vegetables off the supermarket shelves — always available, uniform, and imported when out of season. We city folk move in an artificial world, from our domestic central heating, which insulates us from the winter chills, to our offices, where the airconditioning tempers the heat of the summer sun. And so our obsession continues. You won’t find such an obsession in, say, Africa, where each season, with its own

beauty, comes at an agreed time. You can tell the time of day by a sudden tropical downpour, though, increasingly, global warming appears to be

‘Our obsession is because we are an increasingly urban society...

changing nature’s seasonal time-keeping. Some years ago I travelled hard and deep into South Africa’s Limpopo province for a prearranged meeting with the Modjadji or Rain Queen, a revered leader among her people for her powers to summon the skies to open and cultivate the arid land. It was to be something of a little scoop to get an interview with this regal and revered figure who seldom talks to the public, preferring instead to spend her days in her royal kraal, contemplating the celestial clouds. Instead, a member of the royal household came to meet me as I managed the last steps of a steep mountain climb. “The Modjadji sends her apologies but is laid up, poorly, with a bad cold. Sneezing and splurting, the poor thing.” An occupational hazard, I guess, when you’re a Rain Queen...

Mayors gives his seal of approval Mayor Cllr David Fitzgerald and Pat Boyd, Chairman of Keep Kilkenny Beautiful met on the parade to talk about the upcoming Let’s Team Up to Clean Up, Together for Kilkenny, community initiative. An environmental action day on the 9th of October invites groups across Kilkenny City to come out to show their love of their city by joining forces to litter pick their local neighbourhoods. Resident groups are especially being encouraged to register via https://cleanup.kilkenny.ie/. This environmental action day is the first of its kind, encouraging communities across Kilkenny City to give back to their local area. Participating groups will receive a free litter picking kit worth over €100 which will include flowering bulbs which are suitable for planting on the event day and will provide pollinators with a food source early next spring. Pat Boyd of Keep Kilkenny Beautiful told the Mayor “we have been undertaking a litter survey of housing estates for a few years and in general the estates are kept to a very high standard. However, there might be the odd spot where litter accumulates and this day of action might be an opportunity to tackle these littered areas. The city is kept to a high standard, and neighbourhoods need to look after their own patch. Every lending

hand makes the job of keeping Kilkenny beautiful, that little bit easier”. It is hoped that “Let’s Team Up to Clean Up, Together for Kilkenny” action days will create a long lasting legacy in neighbourhoods across the city. Mayor Cllr David Fitzgerald commended the initiative “I encourage city groups to register for the inaugural Let’s Team Up to Clean Up, Together for Kilkenny event on the 9th of October. The free litter pack I know will be a welcome resource by resident associations across the City. It is brilliant that corporate sponsors worked with the Council to launch the initiative

and PRL, Dawn Meats, John O Shea Trust and Glanbia PLC/Glanbia Co-op together and the waste management sponsor Panda must be commended for coming on board to share the joint vision of this ambitious community driven environmental initiative”. The first action day on the 9th of October which is confined to Kilkenny City and will pave the way for a larger, county wide event which is planned to coincide with St Brigid’s Day, the new public holiday on the first weekend in February next year. Registration for both events is open and can be completed via https://cleanup.kilkenny.ie/.

Mayor of Kilkenny City, Cllr David Fitzgerald with the Chairman of Keep Kilkenny Beautiful, Pat Boyd supporting the “Let’s Team Up to Clean Up, Together for Kilkenny” environmental day of action. Photo by Vicky Comerford

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

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Brain injuries rugby suit A number of former rugby players are taking a case against the IRFU in relation to serious brain injuries sustained during their playing careers. According to the Irish Times, that proceedings are expected to be issued before October, with the case being taken by Dublinbased solicitors Maguire

McClaffey LLP, who specialise in litigation and personal injury law. Manus McClafferty, a senior partner with the firm, confirmed that Irish players are involved but would not state how many. "I won't do that. That’s unwise," he explained. "But I can tell you that proceedings are prepared and will,

probably, be issued, I believe, by the end of September. I have them ready." This legal case against the governing body here in Ireland comes alongside proceedings on behalf of a group of professional and semi-professional players against World Rugby, the Rugby Football Union and the Welsh Rugby Union. The

group have been diagnosed with early-onset dementia and other irreversible neurological impairments. The claimants, who include former Wales captain Ryan Jones and England’s 2003 World Cup-winning hooker Steve Thompson, argue that the sport’s governing bodies were negligent in that they failed to take

Woman finds dead body of missing man in the boot of her rental car A woman driving a rental car discovered a dead boy in the boot when she pulled over to investigate a strange smell. The shocking incident happened in the village of Mullinavat, Co Kilkenny, near the border with Waterford. It’s believed the man who was found dead in the boot of the car was the person who had rented the car immediately before the customer who found the body. The woman who had the distressing experience of unexpectedly finding a corpse in the car she had rented is a local woman from the area in her 20s. The dead man was 40 years old and from Waterford and there had been a Garda appeal for his whereabouts. He had been reported missing almost two weeks before he was tragically found dead in a GoCar rental by the young woman. A source close to the family of the woman who made the sad discovery said: “She picked up the car at one of the GoCar depot spots and had just a short drive out to where she was heading, the village of Mullinavat, I’d say around five miles. “While she was driving she noticed a funny smell, she didn’t know what it was, thought it smelled like gas and thought it might be coming from the car engine when she started the car.

“But it didn’t go away and so she stopped the car when she got to Millivant and that's where she made the shocking discovery, there was the body of a dead man in the boot. “She was stunned, the Gardai were called then and they took it from there.” The Irish Mirror asked Europcar, the parent company of GoCar, if cars were cleaned or valeted between rent-outs, or if the cars were checked to make sure there was nothing left behind by a previous renter. In a statement in reply, the company said: “GoCar is assisting An Garda Síochána with its investigation into the tragic incident that occurred earlier this week in Kilkenny. “We express our deepest condolences to the loved ones of the deceased at this time.” GoCar is a self-service car rental company. The service allows you to rent cars for as little as an hour, using a booking system to reserve the vehicle and in-car technology to unlock the car and drive. There are over 800 GoCar cars and vans available to rent across Ireland in most major towns and cities. The Gardai announced that a missing person appeal for the dead man had been stood down. The original missing persons appeal had been issued on July 8

reasonable action to protect players from permanent injury caused by repetitive concussive and sub-concussive blows. ones, 41, a member of the British and Irish Lions squad on the 2005 tour of New Zealand, revealed his diagnosis with early-onset dementia and probable CTE in an interview with the Sunday

Times earlier this month. He told the newspaper: "I feel like my world is falling apart. "I am really scared because I’ve got three children and three step-children and I want to be a fantastic dad. "I lived 15 years of my life like a superhero and I’m not. I don’t know what the future holds."

Pictured above: at the presentation to Kilkenny’s Marble City Boxing Club members Jack Johnson, Garry Kehoe and Cian Stapleton, at the Texaco Service Station, Talbot’s Inch. With them are Texaco Dealer, John de Loughry (second left) and Valero Area Sales Manager, Niall O’Rourke (second right)

Marble City club boxing clever with funding Kilkenny’s Marble City Boxing Club, County winners in the recent Texaco Support for Sport initiative, has been presented with a cheque for €5,000 which will be used to enhance its facilities. Based in Roachpond, Kilkenny, Marble City Boxing Club caters for individuals from all backgrounds, striving to foster an envi-

ronment in which members can grow and channel their energies in a positive manner. In 2019, the Club was awarded the ‘best boxing club in Leinster’ title, based on the amount of champions it produced in a single championship. Under the scheme – similar to that which proved successful last year when the Kilkenny county award

was presented to Kilkenny Hockey Club – the presentation was made to the Club by Valero Energy (Ireland) Limited, the company that markets fuel in Ireland under the Texaco brand. Now in its second year, the Texaco Support for Sport initiative sees an annual fund of EUR130,000 set aside for allocation in equal amounts of EUR5,000

to successful applicants chosen on a county-bycounty basis. Overseeing the adjudication process was Texaco Support for Sport ambassador, former Irish rugby international and broadcaster, Donncha O’Callaghan. Entries to the Texaco Support for Sport 2023 initiative will open this autumn.

Photo society hosts its 37th annual show Kilkenny Photographic Society's 37th Annual Exhibition takes place in MacDonagh Junction from August 5 to 14. The exhibition, open daily from 9.30am to 7.00pm, will be officially launched by Mayor David Fitzgerald on Friday, August 5 at 7pm. Light refreshments will be served. After a two year absence, due to Covid, members are keen to exhibit their work

and the exhibition will show the diverse range of styles and creativity of our members. Also on exhibition will be the society’s panels for the SACC and National Club Competitions. Two of the society's members received distinctions during the Covid period. Matt Whitby was awarded his Licentiateship (LIPF) and Bernie Kelly was awarded her Associateship (AIPF)

by the Irish Photographic Federation. Their wonderful panels of prints will also be on display. The Irish Photographic Federation awards distinctions at 3 different levels – Licentiateship, Associateship and Fellowship. The exhibition will appeal to a wide audience: members of the public, local organisations as well as tourists and those with an interest in the arts, culture

and particularly photography. You will see a wide range of photography genres including flora/fauna, travel, landscapes, seascapes, portrait, architecture and street photography. * Learn more about Kilkenny Photographic Society by visiting www.kilknennyphoto.net and www.facebook.com/kilkennyphoto/

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

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Opinion

As I See It Marianne Heron

Refugee chaos: a better welcome is needed Having been Ireland of the Welcomes for Ukrainian refugees arriving here, the current reality is now like a modern Nativity story despite public goodwill. There is no room at the inn. A situation where the latest 250 arrivals in the ongoing low of 41,000 refugees to date, had to be stabled at Dublin airport on airbeds or the floor is unacceptable. Earlier, there was a delay in providing temporary tented accommodation at Gormanstown army base in Co Meath. Third level accommodation for refugees is about to dry up and numbers seeking asylum from other countries has already doubled to 6,500 this year. The situation is chaotic. It’s the kind of mess that results when individuals and volunteers try their best but are thwarted

through lack of an overall management plan and strangled by bureaucratic red tape. Accommodation offered by individuals has fallen far short of the original number promised, with the system under the Red Cross for contacting and vetting accommodation simply not working. Of the vacant homes offered 79 % were withdrawn, unsuitable or the owners couldn’t be contacted. Similarly, 74% of offers of shared accommodation didn’t work out. Other have made informal arrangements with refugees, avoiding delays involved in official channels. The Garda vetting system for homeowners offering accommodation for Ukrainians with children – which already involves long delays for locals – is another bottleneck resulting in the loss of 5000

homes on offer. Does this form filling system where householders have to supply every address they have lived at really work as a form of protection? Surely a more streamlined checking system could be found? The Taoiseach has urged ministers “to put their shoulders to the wheel” to resolve the crisis, but the result is likely to be more of the same piecemeal approach. The brutal war in Ukraine is not going to be short lived and the flow of refugees is going to continue. It should clear, despite the best efforts of ministers and departments involved, that a dedicated task force or agency is needed to deal with not only with the crisis but the long-term refugee situation. Above all it needs a fresh approach to sourcing accommodation, both those offered by the public s with

Phelan welcomes signing of legislation to abolish in-patient charges for children Fine Gael TD, John Paul Phelan, has welcomed the signing into law by President Michael D. Higgins of the Health (Miscellaneous Provisions) (No. 2) Act 2022. Once commenced, the Act will provide for the abolition of both overnight and day case public in-patient charges for children less than 16 years of age in all public hospitals and also provides for the introduction of a free contraception scheme for women aged 17-25. “The two measures are scheduled to come into operation by early September this year. I welcome the good news that the President has signed this very important Act, as the measures provided in this legislation are very much intended to support access to care for those who need it in a manner that is fair and affordable. “Abolishing acute in-patient hospital charges for chil-

dren under 16 is focused towards easing the financial burden of parents or guardians when bringing their child to hospital for in-patient care. “Given that the costs of prescription contraception are typically faced by women, the scheme will impact positively on gender equity, reducing costs for women, but also benefiting their partners and families, starting with women aged 17-25. “In the context of current cost-ofliving challenges,

I am delighted the Government is able to introduce these two significant measures aimed at alleviating cost pressures for individuals and families when seeking to access healthcare.”

a streamlined contact and vetting process and new options which could be used. Contracts could be offered to holiday home owner, as there are 1,000s or large vacant buildings and homes, near empty convents or monasteries, and then the option of modular homes (why aren’t we using these to solve the native housing crisis ?) The agency would need overall responsibility for the care refugees and the authority to co-ordinate the efforts of volunteers. There are 65 organisation under the umbrella of the Ukraine Civil Society Forum alone. What we have at present – with the notable exception of the Department of Education which has worked wonders in getting Ukrainian kids into school – is a chaotic despite all the vol-

untary effort and goodwill. An 80% majority of Ukrainians here are women with children, many want to work and earn in order to integrate more fully but they face a language barrier and have child care needs. While there are volunteer

‘Despite goodwill, there’s no room at the inn..

efforts why not open group evening classes in schools or allow Ukrainians to offer childminding? Some women are highly qualified – this in a country with skill shortages – but their qualifications aren’t recognised so they end up in menial part- time jobs. Why can’t we have an enabling and imaginative approach instead of nay saying rules? Many of the Ukrainians we are hosting will eventually return home but some will stay, joined by partners and enrich our society. Others seeking asylum from different countries are more likely to stay, but they enter the direct provision system although a majority here agree they should be treated equally. It’s not enough to open the door, the Government need to make it easier for refugees to integrate and join our society.

Can Omega 3 change the way you think, feel and age? CLAIR WHITTY

Wild Atlantic Health, an Irish company down in Cork, has developed a number of innovative home health tests to measure nutritional deficiencies. They’re a passionate bunch of people who feel that preventive health is the future. Knowing your Omega-3 Index identifies the underlying level of silent inflammation in your body and is more informative than a standard cholesterol test. The Omega 3 Index measures the % of Omega 3 in your red blood cells. Lower than 4% is the danger zone and 8-12% is the

optimal level. Levels higher than 8% help maintain heart, brain, eye and joint health and reduce the risk of cognitive and cardiovascular problems and, amazingly, increase life expectancy by 5 years. That in itself is motivation to take the Test but there would be little point in me telling you about it unless I had done one myself. I got my husband Denis to take the test too. He takes fish oils regularly and eats tins of mackerel a couple of times a week, while I tend to be on and off fish oils. Well, lo and behold, the results came back online. I had naively thought mine would be better than Denis’s, but the proof is in the blood. His result was excellent being in the optimal range at 8.12%.

I was at 5.22%. He is perfect! I was in the ‘you need to work on this’ and probably won’t live this down. Now that I have a starting point, I will re-test in four months to see if taking fish oils regularly and eating more oily fish helps improve my numbers. I will let you know how I get on. You can get omega 3 from plant sources too, but your body has to convert it into active EPA and DHA. The Test requires a simple finger prick and a sample of blood is dropped onto a collection card. The card is registered online and put into a prepaid envelope and posted to the lab. Within 2 weeks you’ll receive an email with your results and recommendations. I will be on the radio soon talking about testing. We have invited Wild Atlantic into our stores to tell you more about these exciting products and to answer all your questions. You can find out more details on our website www.naturalhealthstore.ie. 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

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

News Up to 87% of parents in the South East worry about the content their children could see online, according to new Vodafone Ireland study. The study also found that 67% of children from Leinster use connected devices daily, and 52% are online for one to three hours a day. To mark the launch of Secure Net, a new digital protection product, Vodafone Ireland conducted the national study into the Irish public’s concerns and behaviours around online safety and security. The nationwide survey found that many Leinster residents are not as comfortable online as they would like to be, with just under two-thirds (64%) admitting they are concerned about their online safety and do not feel confident in how to protect themselves. With children and young people increasingly living life online, the onus on parents and guardians to be informed and empowered is a constant concern. According to the research of parents of children aged 4 to 14, 67% of children in Leinster use connected devices daily, and just over half (52%) are online for 1 to 3 hours per day. Secure Net features parental tools, such as content filtering, pause and focus time to help parents manage children’s time on devices. The product seamlessly connects and works with all devices and operating systems on Vodafone’s mobile and broadband network – protecting people in-and-out of the home. The research found that nearly nine out of ten (87%) of Leinster parents worry about the content their child could be seeing online and 46% are troubled by a lack of control over their internet use. The reasons for parents’ concerns are varied, with threequarters of participants surveyed concerned about their children being exposed to strangers online, 56% fearful of explicit content, and just under half (47%) worried that their children might unwittingly fall victim to a cyber-attack or online virus. The study also reveals that over half (58%) of Leinster parents frequently restrict online access through parental controls or by manually turning on

SPECIAL REPORT

Growing concern for safety of our children online Staying safe: Claire Reynolds, Head of Consumer Marketing Segments at Vodafone Ireland and her son, Ross Harlow (14), launching Vodafone Secure Net

and off internet connections. Almost half (49%) of parents in Leinster feel that it is hard for their child to focus on schoolwork when they have access to other online platforms. To help alleviate parents’ concerns, Secure Net allows them to manage the content on their children’s devices through the new app and/or online portal. Parents can select appropriate content categories to filter access based on the child’s age, limit their time online, pause or schedule access and restrict some content, like social media, during homework or fo-

cus time and switch off access when it is time for bed. Digital protection is becoming increasingly important as the frequency of cyber-attacks continues to rise. According to the research, 46% of people in Leinster fell victim to an online virus in the past year, while a further 37% experienced two to three viruses, including spyware, trojans and botnet malware in the last 12 months. Of those who experienced online attacks, 37% were hacked, 21% had their data stolen and 11% suffered financial loss. Secure Net offers the

unique proposition of digital protection by scanning, detecting, and removing malicious content on connected devices, both inside and outside of the home. Claire Reynolds, Head of Segment, Vodafone Ireland, said: “The unique in-and-out of home protection offering with Secure Net gives customers more confidence that time online is spent safely and that children and loved ones are not being exposed to unsuitable content, phishing scams and other attacks on their devices.”

ISPCC Childline Chief Executive, John Church added: “Technology and the internet are almost fully embedded in our children’s lives today. As a result, they have few opportunities to switch off completely. “It’s important that children and young people, with the support of their parents and caregivers, talk about the best way to ensure that they are safe online. This interaction could involve conversations about managing the type of content they engage with and about setting time limits for in-

ternet access.” Available as an add-on to both new and existing customers, Secure Net is available both inside and outside of the home. At €2.99 per month, Vodafone customers can avail of Secure Net protection for fixed broadband lines. It includes parental controls** and protects all devices connected to internet via the Vodafone Home Wi-Fi or directly connected by cable to the modem. * For more information, visit https://n.vodafone.ie/ protecting-you/secure-net. html.

Covid sees big increase in older people online Older adults spend nearly 10 hours a day on their devices, and it can leave younger generations rolling their eyes. As families gather this summer, children and their parents might be surprised to find how tech-obsessed the grandparents have become. A recent report from America’s AARP, the advocacy organisation for older adults, found that the tech habits older people developed during the pandemic are enduring. Those ages 65 and up

are using smartphones and tablets more often for reading news and playing games. They’re also broadening their social-media use and doing more banking and shopping online. Another report this week from market researcher Nielsen found that people over the age of 50 are fuelling growth in video-streaming services such as YouTube, Netflix and Amazon Prime. The pandemic forced many older adults to learn how to make FaceTime and Zoom calls to stay in touch

with relatives and friends — and how to stream videos for entertainment. While Covid-19 accelerated tech adoption among this group of adults, it also caused them to develop some device dependency, said Indira Venkat, senior vice president of research at AARP. Adult children of some older people say they worry screens are getting in the way of family time during visits with the grandkids. Phone use during meals is of particular concern.

Even before Covid-19, older people were spending more time on screens than younger ones. Americans 65 and older use screens nearly 10 hours a day. The bulk of it is spent in front of TVs, according to a 2019 Nielsen report. A study published last year found that teens spend an average of almost eight hours a day in front of a screen — like their grandparents, they devote most of that time to watching or streaming videos, movies or TV shows. Parents have good reason

to worry about kids’ tech use. Certain kinds of screen use can adversely affect their developing brains, and social media has been linked to eating disorders among teen girls. Those issues don’t apply to older people. Studies even suggest that certain digital games can sharpen cognition and that using smartphones can help them combat loneliness. Some tech-savvy older adults view their devices as a way to pursue their interests, not mindlessly passing the time.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

kilkennyobserver.ie

Opinion

Your Money & You John Ellis

How lenders will react to interest hike Interest rates are on the rise. The European Central Bank (ECB) has raised interest rates for the first time in over a decade. The ECB rate is the rate of interest that commercial banks are charged for loans from the European Central Bank. This rate then influences the interest rates that banks charge borrowers. The ECB have been under serious pressure due to the pandemic, food prices, the war in Ukraine with all that the conflict entails not to mention sky-high energy prices leading to price increases of up to 8% which is way above the ECB target rate of 2% The ECB interest rate has gone up by 0.50% which has taken many experts by surprise. The increase was expected to be 0.25% and increasing by such increments into 2023. The moneymen understand why the rates had to increase but there are

concerns that the current increase and proposed further increases could lead to a recession. Brokers Ireland said the rate increase “marks the beginning of a new era and predicting where the rate will end up with any degree of accuracy in like fortune telling” According to Joey Sheahan, Head of Credit at online broker MyMortgages.ie, all eyes will now be on the other lenders to see how they react to the ECB’s announcement. Whatever the size, a rate increase will have a knockon impact for hundreds of thousands of mortgage holders over the short-tomedium term. The rate increase will hit approx. 300,000 mortgage holders on tracker rates. Those on variable rates approx. 200,000 will have to wait and see what the banks will do with the rate increase. Bank of Ireland are first out of the blocks an-

nouncing they will be passing on the increase in full to its tracker mortgage customers from August. The following are examples of what it may cost the average household in the coming months. Tracker Rate: based on a €250,000 mortgage with 25 years remaining on a 1% tracker rate increasing to1.5% after the ECB’s announcement will cost an extra €47 monthly or €564 annually or €14,100 over the life of mortgage. Variable Rate: based on a 0.5% increase in interest rates from 3.2% to 3.7% on a €250,000 loan amount over 25 years would increase monthly repayment from €1,211 to 1,278 which is an additional €67 monthly or €804 annually or €20,051 additional interest over 25 years. Total interest repaid would increase from €113,509 to €133,560. Should

the loan be higher, or the remaining term be longer, this will increase the costs. For example, if the loan was over 30 years it would add an additional €5,000 to the total repayments. Switching activity has been busy this year with a further flurry of activity expected over the coming months as more people move to try to lock in fixed rates and get an element of protection from further increase rate rises. In a recent survey earlier this year by leading protection provider Royal London one the most striking findings was that more than half of respondents said they have no plans to switch their mortgage providers in search of better value! Even though it’s estimated that up to 60% of eligible’ mortgages for principal dwelling homes stood to save over €1,000 within the first year if they switched, and more than €10,000 over

Bigger and better every year

After an absence of two years the great Iverk Show is delighted to be back. It is all happening in Piltown on Saturday 27th August. “We are already looking forward to the best show

ever,” said chairman Robert Dowley. With over €100,000 in prizes for the first time, there is something for everyone. From tiny tots to international show jumping superstars to dogs, poultry, crafts and vintage

machinery, fashion, all-day entertainment and much, much more. And this is not the first time the Iverk Show has bounced back after a break. In 1892 and 1951 after a break of ten years

in both cases the revival shows came back stronger than ever. We are really looking forward to the new competitions and events. What caught my eye was the new ‘Best Dressed Lady and Gentlemen’. Kindly

their remaining term. One of the barriers cited was people didn’t think it will be easy or worth the hassle. Methinks this will now change. According to MyMorgage. ie, based on a loan to value of

“Somewhat of a no-brainer for many...

”

Sponsored by The Merrion Hotel, Dublin and Connolly’s Red Mills Store there are fabulous prizes to be won. Now lads, here is your chance to make a name for yourself! Pride of place in the cattle section must go to the continued partnership with sponsor Aldi in association with ABP Food Group and the Irish Angus Cattle Society for the Irish Angus All Ireland Bull Calf Championships. The show horse and pony classes continue to offer opportunities for all equestrian enthusiasts. Frank Knight and Morris Oil have joint sponsorship of the All-Ireland Broodmare and Foal Team final. The side saddle riding classes are always beautiful to watch and so graceful There are 25 dog classes and all dogs are welcome. Just bring your dog and enter on the day! The 41 classes in the fantastic poultry marque are a must to visit. There are Hard Feather, Light and Heavy Soft Feathered, Bantams and Waterfowl breeds on display. The flower arrangers create their own magic with very interesting themes this year. The children’s class “All Creatures Great and Small” is a tribute to the imagination of our young people. Classes for young people

under 60%, a borrower can currently fix at a rate of 2.5% for 25 years. This is somewhat of a “no brainer” for many people as they need never worry about a rate increases for the full duration of their mortgage and they argue “that every borrower should be considering long term fixed rates now, even if they are currently on a fixed rate, as there is often no breakage fee depending on lender and even if there is, the savings you can make generally outweighs the cost of any breakage fee payable”. I was speaking with one client who has just completed her switch and has locked in a guaranteed saving of €202 per month for the next three years – a guaranteed saving of over €7,000. It’s time to move in every sense of the word. john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633.

have always been a feature of Iverk Show. In the 1800s the local primary schools had a school garden to encourage pupils to grow vegetables. The best plot won a prize for the child and the teacher supervisor. Check out the baking, arts and crafts, and photography classes. The ‘great’ cherry cake competition is very well named with over 50 entries. The Iverk catwalk will be heaving with the fashion show once again. If you are a bonny baby under 18 months, make sure your parents bring you as every baby will get a prize! Why not check it all out on our website www.iverkshow. ie. You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Free parking with a designated area for disabled parking.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

kilkennyobserver.ie

Science & Wellbeing It has long been held in medical and scientific circles that that depression is caused by a ‘chemical imbalance’ in the brain – namely an imbalance of a chemical called serotonin. However, the latest research shows that the evidence does not support it. Although first proposed in the 1960s, the serotonin theory of depression started to be widely promoted by the pharmaceutical industry in the 1990s in association with its efforts to market a new range of antidepressants, known as selective serotoninreuptake inhibitors or SSRIs. The idea was also endorsed by official institutions which still tell the public that “differences in certain chemicals in the brain may contribute to symptoms of depression”. Countless doctors have repeated the message all over the world, in their private surgeries and in the media. People accepted what they were told. And many started taking antidepressants because they believed they had something wrong with their brain that required an antidepressant to put right. In the period of this marketing push, antidepressant use climbed dramatically, and they are now prescribed to one in six of the adult population in England, for example. For a long time, certain academics, including some leading psychiatrists, have suggested that there is no satisfactory evidence to support the idea that depression is a result of abnormally low or inactive serotonin. Others continue to endorse the theory. Until now, however, there has been no comprehensive review of the research on serotonin and depression that could enable firm conclusions either way. At first sight, the fact that SSRI-type antidepressants act on the serotonin system appears to support the serotonin theory of depression. SSRIs temporarily increase the availability of serotonin in the brain, but this does not necessarily imply that depression is caused by the opposite of this effect. There are other explanations for antidepressants’ efOne non-meat option that’s gaining traction as the newest superfood is seaweed. Yes, the brownish-green ribbons and bundles of oceanic plantlike matter that wash up on beaches, is, in fact, edible. Nori, the papery sheets used to wrap sushi rolls and as a ramen bowl garnish, is likely the most well-known and enjoyed seaweed, but these large, leafy algae come in hundreds of colourful varieties, including wakame, kombu, red dulse and sugar kelp. Seaweed helps to support other marine life and to clean the water surrounding it. When out of the water, it can bring more nutrition and minerals to our diets. “Even though we try to eat healthy, we’re relying on land-

systematically before. The big think.com conducted an ‘umbrella’ review that involved systematically identifying and collating existing overviews of the evidence from each of the main areas of research into serotonin

and depression. Although there have been systematic reviews of individual areas in the past, none have combined the evidence from all the different areas taking this approach. One area of research we in-

cluded was research comparing levels of serotonin and its breakdown products in the blood or brain fluid. Overall, this research did not show a difference between people with depression and those without depression. Another area of research has focused on serotonin receptors, which are proteins on the ends of the nerves that serotonin links up with and which can transmit or inhibit serotonin’s effects. Research on the most commonly investigated serotonin receptor suggested either no difference between people with depression and people without depression, or that serotonin activity was actually increased in people with depression – the opposite of the serotonin theory’s prediction. Research on the serotonin ‘transporter’, that is the protein which helps to terminate the effect of serotonin (this is the protein that SSRIs act on), also suggested that, if anything, there was increased serotonin activity in people with depression. However, these findings may be explained by the fact that many participants in these studies had used or were currently using antidepressants. We also looked at research that explored whether depression can be induced in volunteers by artificially lowering levels of serotonin. Two systematic reviews from 2006 and 2007 and a sample of the ten most recent studies (at the time the current research was conducted) found that lowering serotonin did not produce depression in hundreds of healthy volunteers. One of the reviews showed very weak evidence of an effect in a small subgroup of people with a family history of depression, but this only involved 75 participants. Very large studies involving tens of thousands of patients looked at gene variation, including the gene that has the instructions for making the serotonin transporter. The researchers found that there was no difference in the frequency of varieties of this gene between people with depression and healthy controls.

ting easier than ever to taste the sea. For humans, seaweed is a one-stop shop for our crucial nutrient needs. “Seaweed is an excellent source of dietary fibre and minerals,” said Mary Ellen Camire, Professor of Food Science and Human Nutrition at the University of Maine. Though nutritional profiles vary slightly between green, brown and red varieties, across the board seaweed contains a number of vitamins, including B, C, E and K, omega-3 fatty acids, protein, amino acids, polyphenols and 10 times more minerals than land-based plants, according to a recent study. These essential minerals include iron, calcium and iodine.

And when used as a fertiliser for land-based farming, seaweed can add those essential nutrients back into the soil, improving its health. Seaweed is a one-stop shop for crucial nutrient needs. Since the concentration of specific nutrients in seaweed can interact with various medications, check with your doctor if you have a thyroid condition or take blood thinners before going all in. Seaweed is just as beneficial to water systems as it is to our personal health. Carbon capture might be the buzzword of the moment in the fight to mitigate the climate crisis, but seaweed has been doing it naturally all this time. Seaweed pulls carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere and uses it

to make more carbohydrates. We are not sure how much seaweed farming it would take to have a significant effect on global warming, but it helps. Seaweed also works as a component of regenerative aquaculture by consuming nitrogen and phosphorus, two elements that can harm the ocean when found in large quantities. Seaweed also provides a place for smaller sea creatures to hide from predators, establishing refuge environments that can help restore diverse marine life in overfished habitats. Even better: Seaweed requires no fertiliser or pesticides to grow in the ocean, whether it’s farmed there or harvested wild.

Depression not now seen as a chemical imbalance in brain fects. In fact, drug trials show that antidepressants are barely distinguishable from a placebo (dummy pill) when it comes to treating depression. Also, antidepressants appear to have a generalised emotion-numbing effect

which may influence people’s moods, although we do not know how this effect is produced or much about it. There has been extensive research on the serotonin system since the 1990s, but it has not been collected

Why seaweed is the new super food based, soil-based agriculture for the most part,” said Sarah Redmond, founder and owner of Springtide Seaweed in Gouldsboro, Maine. “Seaweed is a really interesting alterna-

tive because it provides those nutrients that are really hard to find in other land plants.” With several companies bringing seaweed-based foods to the market, it’s get-

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

kilkennyobserver.ie

Travel & Leisure Holidays have made a major comeback, which means it’s time for you to pack your bags and head out on that trip you’ve long been dreaming of. But hang on, after two years of going virtually nowhere, do you even remember how to pack a suitcase anymore? We wouldn’t blame you if you forgot. After all, it’s likely been a minute since you’ve thought about deciding between a checked bag or a carry-on, and if you should or shouldn’t bring your packing cubes along for the ride. If you need a little help getting started, Lydia Mansel, travel writer and founder of Just Packed, a traveler’s resource for packing lists and product recommendations, is here to share her advice. Here are 10 packing tips straight from Mansel that will have you packing like a pro in no time. 1. Your mode of transportation According to Mansel, she allows her mode of transportation to dictate just how overpacked her bags can get. “The way I pack a suitcase depends on how I’m traveling,” Mansel explains. For example, if she’s driving or flying but only bringing a carry-on, she allows herself to overpack a little. Like Mansel, your mode of transport should help you decide just how much you can feasibly pack and which size of luggage you should choose. 2. Know your airline’s weight limit “If I’m flying and checking a bag, I know the 50-pound weight limit comes quickly, and I’ll need to be mindful of how much I’m actually packing into the suitcase,” Mansel says, noting the average weight limit for checked luggage across major airlines. “In this instance, I’ll use my Away suitcase, which is just under 12 pounds. I’ll From Farm to Table is the gastronomic programme from Portugal’s Alentejo region. Alentejo’s foodie heritage is celebrated internationally – including in the Michelin guide. A Michelin star was awarded to the restaurant Do Esporão in Reguengos de Monsaraz in early 2022. From Farm to Table’s five major itineraries are divided into 17 smaller routes that allow you to discover not only the region’s gastronomy but also other aspects of the Alentejo, including its famous wines. Coastal and southern Alentjo The first itinerary focuses on coastal Alentejo, one of the most stunning coastlines in the world. It is perfect for those who want to sample local seafood while also visiting wonderful beaches washed by the Atlantic Ocean and the Sado and Mira rivers. In addition to seafood and fish, it is worth trying the area’s grilled and stewed dishes, pasta and fish soups, caldeiradas (codfish stews), eel stews, winkles or cuttlefish

How to pack properly for that holiday

then pack normally and weigh the bag with a handheld weight scale. With a couple of pairs of shoes and my toiletries, I typically average 47 pounds, giving me a little wiggle room if I pick up any souvenirs on my travels.” 3. Just do what works for you Which type of traveler are you, a roller or a folder? According to Mansel, it really doesn’t matter.

“I’ve done the research about the pros and cons of rolling vs. folding, and there’s a general consensus across the travel community: there’s no major difference,” she says. “I personally prefer to fold more casual pieces, like jeans and cotton tops, but I’ll roll the clothes that are more delicate or tend to wrinkle.” Moral of the story, pick the packing method that’s right for you, and don’t stress about making the trendy choice.

4. Make every inch of space count No matter which method of packing you choose, Mansel says it’s critical to make use of every inch of space you have in your luggage — including some often-overlooked spots. Each piece of clothing, she says, should be folded or rolled as tightly as possible and squeezed into “every square inch of extra space, including inside my shoes.” Yes, you read that right. If you can, try

rolling up socks, underwear, or smaller t-shirts and stuff them inside boots or sneakers. The little added space really can make a huge difference. 5. Invest in packing cubes A chaotic bag can kill a travel mood, which is why Mansel says investing in packing cubes is a good idea. “I’m a recent packing cube convert and have been using them for about a year. Even if I’m just packing for a short weekend trip, packing cubes are involved at some level,” Mansel says. “I’ve found they make my life exponentially easier; my suitcase is more organised, and the unpacking process is a breeze.” And invest in packing cubes to sort your laundry. Speaking of those allimportant cubes, Mansel says it’s smart to pack an extra empty one that you can fill on your trip with all your dirty laundry. “Once I arrive home, I can simply throw the contents into my laundry basket instead of deliriously searching through my suitcase for what needs to be washed,” Mansel says. 6. Give outfit planning a try Take your packing to the next level by re-thinking your travel wardrobe. “My outfit planning for trips usually starts about a week out,” Mansel says. “At this point, I’ll start a list in my Notes app on my phone. Here, I’ll begin to formulate what I’m wearing each day, and I’ll jot down the specific items I need to bring — like an adaptor, toothbrush, or extra contact lenses — as they come to mind.” According to Mansel, this list initially includes more than what she’ll actually bring, but she’s found it’s the perfect way to begin to whittle down a packing list. “When it’s written out, you’re able to see that no, you really don’t need three different pairs must if you travel to this part of the region. Central Alentejo The fourth gastronomic itinerary passes through central Alentejo, from Vendas Novas to Évora. This one invites you on a journey through the senses, where compotes, exquisite local pastries, fragrant rice dishes, and even edible flowers will delight the eyes and nose, as well as your tastebuds.

The gastronomic delights of Alentejo feijoadas, and rice dishes with prawns or razor clams. The southern interior The second route crosses the southern part of the interior, running between Mértola, Castro Verde, Beja, Vidigueira, Viana do Alentejo, and Alvito. Those who choose this itinerary, or one of the smaller routes in the area, will be able to taste the famous Serpa cheeses, olive oils, sausages, and even some local sweets,

all accompanied by wines like those produced in the vineyards of Vidigueira. This part of the Alentejo is also known for the many aromatic and medicinal plants that are grown here. From Alqueva to Évora The third route focuses on the area around the town of Alqueva. The beauty of the landscapes along the shores of the Alqueva reservoir (the largest in western Europe)

pairs well with the area’s culinary offerings. Here visits to purveyors in Portel, Monsaraz, Mourão, Moura, Noudar, and Serpa provide opportunities to learn about how they combine traditional techniques and daring innovations. This is also where you will find some of the most celebrated restaurants in the region, such as Herdade do Esporão, in Reguengos de Monsaraz. Tastings of oil, wine, cheese, and honey are a

The northern itinerary Finally, the northern itinerary runs along the Guadiana river amid the landscapes of the Tagus basin. You’ll visit some of the most interesting towns and sights in the region, such as Marvão, Castelo de Vide, and Monforte. You’ll discover first-hand that here country inns and rural retreats are often also gastronomic must-eat stops. Highlights include the sausages of São Brás, the coffee produced by the Coffee Science Centre of Campo Maior, and the wines produced here. Mushroom and cork workshops at

of ‘just in case’ jeans. Giving yourself a few days before your departure ensures you have time to order anything you’re missing, like thick socks, a white t-shirt, or even a bathing suit.” 7. Think twice about what you’ve packed When it’s time to actually do the packing, Mansel has a clear idea of what she needs to find in her closet, thanks to her handy list. “These pre-planned pieces then are folded into packing cubes, separated out by shirts, pants, dresses, gym clothes, and socks and undergarments,” she says. “As I place each piece into the cubes, I ask myself again: Will I really wear this? I usually veer toward overpacking, so at this stage, I try to remove at least two items that I won’t miss on my trip.” 8. Splurge on toiletry capsules Toiletries can be the bane of every traveler’s packing experience. Finding the right size and the right amount of space for all your serums, creams, and cleansers can be annoying, which is why Mansel says this one Instafamous knick-knack is actually worth it. “In my opinion, packing toiletries is one of the most annoying and difficult parts of traveling, especially if you have a specific skin or hair care routine,” she says. “If you, like me, need to have a more extensive list of products with you at all times (contact solution, Vitamin C serum, leave-in hair products, etc.), the Cadence Capsules you’ve probably seen all over Instagram are worth the investment. Since I started using them to hold my travel toiletries, I’ve avoided the lastminute panicked trips to the drugstore in search of a decent travel-sized shampoo or face lotion. Moinho da Cova in Portagem provide opportunities to delve deeper into those aspects of life in northern Alentejo. Timing your holiday Autumn is the best month for harvesting many crops. If you want to see, or even take part in, the harvesting of grapes; walnuts, acorns, and chestnuts; olives; and rice (and its drying and husking too) as well as mushroom foraging. then fall is the time to visit. With the cold weather comes the pruning of vines, the production of olive oil, and the harvesting of some seasonal products such as cardoons and truffles. Spring is the best time to take part in pruning aromatic plants, sowing rice, preparing and planting vegetable gardens, and making compotes. During the summer many fruits and vegetables are at their peak and it is also when honey is bottled and cork is extracted. You can discover all of Alentejo’s surprises on the region’s comprehensive website.

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

Opinion

Furthermore Gerry Moran

Recalling the ‘other’ Life of Brian! We started at the same hour, of the same day, of the same month, of the same year, in the same school. The year was 1974 and the school was Saint Patrick’s De La Salle here in Kilkenny. His name was Brian Cody; recently retired Kilkenny hurling manager and the longest serving GAA manager in the history of the organisation. Brian and I were teaching colleagues for more than a quarter of a century during which time we got to know each other quite well. Back in 1974, being the new kids on the block, so to speak, and, like any 20-year-olds, we socialised together and had our fair share of fun, accompanied by another colleague, Paul Kinsella. Paul, unlike Brian and myself, had a car and drove us to the various dances and discos around the city and county. Indeed I have a memory of Paul driving Brian, and myself,

with the Liam McCarthy Cup in the boot (a unique drive, you’ll agree) to a club who were celebrating an anniversary and where the presence of Liam McCarthy would be greatly appreciated. A popular piece of music during Brian’s halcyon hurling

‘The Liam McCarthy Cup in the boot . .

days was Glen Campbell’s ‘Rhinestone Cowboy’; a line from the song went: “….. getting cards and letters from people I don’t even know...”, a line that equally applied to Brian who, thanks to his fame on the hurling pitch, was also receiving cards and letters from people (not least females) he didn’t even know. I was not jealous, just a little envious. A little? Okay, maybe a lot. I went on to become manager ie. Principal of the De La Salle school while Brian went on to become manager, for 24 fabulous years, of the Kilkenny hurling team; Kilkenny’s most successful manager and one of the most successful managers in GAA history. Sometimes in my local, I jokingly tell my fellow drinkers that Brian Cody learned his exceptional managerial skills from HIS manager, namely moi. They smile at me benignly, as well

they should. I also tell them that the serious looking Brian Cody they sometimes see on the sideline has a very good sense of humour. Not quite a man to tell a joke but a great man for the witty riposte. Those Black & Amber days in the school, when Kilkenny reached the All Ireland final, were something special – corridors and classrooms festooned in black and amber, while the school itself was like a massive monument to our county’s colours thanks to a plethora of bunting and flags while every pupil was decked out in the stripy colours of the Kilkenny cats. Yet, an image that stands out in my mind is that of a first class pupil proudly sporting his bright red Cork jersey, sticking out like a sore thumb amid a sea, an ocean, of black and amber. That’s gutsy Cork courage, I thought. Cork didn’t lack courage in Croke Park that particular All Ireland final

against Kilkenny who proved too good for the ‘rebels’ and went on to win. And then there were the Black & Amber days when, having won the All Ireland, the Liam McCarthy Cup was brought in triumph to the De La Salle School – not just the workplace of our hero, Sir Cody, but the alma mater of Kilkenny All Ireland medal winners: Philly Larkin, Brian McEvoy, Eoin Larkin, Matthew Ruth, Eoin McCormack and Jackie Tyrell. The lads gladly signed autographs left, right and centre and posed for photographs turning the schoolyard into a teeming mass of excitement. Not a lot of work was done in school those days but there was unbridled joy in the eyes of every pupil from Junior Infants to Sixth class. Always an amateur photographer I have some wonderful images of those days –Philly Larkin signing a youngster’s jersey, Brian McEvoy signing

a hurl but my favourite photo, however, is that of a newlyborn baby, just about, sitting in the McCarthy cup who went on to become, not a famous Kilkenny hurler, but who, despite a challenging background, became a fine, upstanding young man whose achievements I am particularly proud of to this day. Regarding Brian Cody’s tenure as Kilkenny manager, an elderly friend of mine, a true-blue, dyed-in the-wool, hurling follower, once said to me: ‘Gerry, we’ve won fourin-a-row and have surpassed Cork and Tipp in the winning stakes. I can die happy. Tell Cody thanks.’ And I did. And now, after 24ccessful, and glorious, years at the helm of Kilkenny hurling, I too, say thanks to Brian Cody, hurling legend supreme; I say thanks for the memories, the precious memories, because, for sure, we won’t see the likes of him again

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

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Disposable cup levy on the way A ‘latte levy’ to restrict the use of disposable coffee cups is set to be introduced in the coming months. The legislation to incentivise the use of recycled and reusable alternatives to single-use disposable packaging has been signed into law by President Higgins.

The new law also paves the way for use of CCTV to detect and deter illegal dumping and littering. Ossian Smyth, the Minister of State with responsibility for Communications and the Circular Economy, said that the Government was to enter into a public consulta-

Farmers investing in climate-smart tech deserve credit says IFA leader Farmers investing in climatesmart technologies should get the credit for reducing carbon emissions and not any other sector, according to the President of the Irish Farmers Association (IFA). Tim Cullinan said he was concerned that a reduction in emissions due to farmers investing in new technology — such as anaerobic digestion, solar panels, forestry and carbon farming — will be attributed to other key sectors. Speaking on RTÉ’s Morning Ireland programme, Mr Cullinan said that this would be “totally wrong”. He said: “We can’t have a situation where farmers are going to invest massive amounts of money in new technologies and then they won’t be getting the credit for it.” He called on Minister for the Environment Eamon Ryan to “rectify this”. Mr Cullinan said that farmers had been “consistently saying that we will work on 22% reduction in emissions”. He insisted that already “farmers are obviously doing

a lot” by adopting new measures. He said that, while the recent report published by the Environmental Protection Agency recorded an increase in emissions, there was always a lag time from when new measures are adopted and when the impact of these “filters through”. Earlier, Taoiseach Micheál Martin said the key sectors of agriculture, transport and enterprise would each have to come up with their ceilings and agree figures regarding cutting emissions. In terms of agriculture targets, the Taoiseach said that farmers were “up for” the challenge of cutting emissions. “The farmers are up for this. The farmers are quite progressive in Ireland in respect of change. They understand climate change as well. They can see it. We can all see it,” Mr Martin said. New farming technology was coming on stream all of the time, Mr Martin said, adding that there were different methods of farming that would cut emissions.

Listen, here’s an exciting piece of modern theatre How do you prefer to be listened to? Do you ever feel you’re speaking against the wind? Whose words do you repeat? Who do you have to become in another language in order to be heard, and what gets left behind? Kilkenny native Niamh Moroney, based in Brussels, is, this summer for the Arts festival, bringing a show from Belgium to Kilkenny. The show is a conceptual theatre piece about how a voice changes when you cross a border. It is developed and created by Eszter Némethi, a college friend of Niamh’s from Hungary whom she met in UCC.

“We both moved to Brussels in 2017 and began to make theatre together there in 2019, “ Ms Moroney told The Kilkenny Observer. ‘Speak Like No One In Particular’ is a lyrical conversation about listening and finding a voice. Tracing the path of her own voice as it travels across Europe, Hungarian theatre-maker Eszter Némethi’s deeply personal work investigates ‘emotional borders’ and the ways in which geographical and social hierarchies emerge within the spoken voice. The performance is at St Kieran’s College, from August 10-14.

tion process with regard to the levy. “It’s going to take about 90 days for us to do the public consultation. It’s not just about coffee cups, it’s any food packaging or any product packaging,” he said. “If we find out that there is a good reusable alterna-

tive and we think it’s feasible to move to that, we can put a small levy on something and encourage consumers to change. “We’re starting with coffee cups. We’ve been through this process before with plastic bags 20 years ago and we made exceptions.”

The minister added that the Government will take a “very practical approach” but that there are many cafes that have already removed disposable cups and “it’s working really well for them”. “Nobody is going to be caught short on this and in the long run it’s going to

save you money on your coffee,” he said. “You’re not going to have to pay for that cup because the cup costs the café 20 cent.” At the end of the day, will a latte levy stop us dumping 200 million coffee cups a year?

For new dads: launching the improved policy are from left Joanne Healy, Head of Group Employee Relations, Bank of Ireland; Matt Elliott, Chief People Officer, Bank of Ireland; and Emer Kenna, Co-Chair, Bank of Ireland I&D Parents and Carers Network. Pic: Naoise Culhane

Dads can now bank on paternity leave Bank of Ireland has launched an improved policy supporting its colleagues to combine work and family life through paternity leave. The new policy triples the bank’s current paid paternity leave from two to six weeks and is open to all colleagues. “Our aim is to create a more inclusive approach to all types of family leave, recognising the varying needs of the modern family in all its guises,” says Matt Elliott, Chief People Officer at Bank of Ireland. Under the new policy, an employee whose partner is having a baby, adopts a child or becomes a parent

through surrogacy, or who is the parent of a donorconceived child, will have the flexibility to take six weeks of paid leave, within the first six months of the child’s life. As well as the father of the child, the spouse, civil partner or cohabitant of the mother of the child is also considered a relevant parent. Bank of Ireland has introduced the new policy to recognise the need for a relevant parent to bond with their new-born or newly placed child in circumstances where they are not entitled to adoptive or maternity leave. Increased

paternity leave can have a significant impact on both the personal and financial wellbeing of colleagues and their families, and can promote parent-child bonding, improve outcomes for children and increase gender equity at home and at the workplace. Matt Elliott, Chief People Officer, Bank of Ireland, said: “Family is hugely important. We want to help our colleagues make the most of their important life milestones while also creating a more supportive and inclusive culture within the Bank. This improved policy offers new parents more

time to prioritise their family responsibilities with a greater balance between work and family life. And we are committed to making further improvements to it over time. “This is part of a series of family friendly improvements we are implementing,” he said. Other policy initiatives include fertility leave and supports, menopause supports, a surrogacy support policy, and the recently added domestic abuse policy, where the bank provides both financial and non-financial support to colleagues who experience domestic abuse.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

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Opinion

Knockdrinagh Hill, and a great brother… BY NED EGAN

Seventy five years ago now. An age – or a minute? Both. It was the end of the school holidays, in the hard and hungry 1940s – 50s. The Crossroads I lived on looked towards Slievenamon in the vicious winters of the time, towards the blue hills of Kilmoganny in the sweetremembered summers. That’s how it was. To me, anyway. Early up on this particular day. Bread toasted over last night’s griosach, and a slash of tea from the black kettle on the crane was my usual routine, for the Ma’s breakfast. I was often a ‘bold boy’ I suppose, but for this small act, and the bringing home of cowslips and primroses, I was forgiven. O, also the stories and lies I’d make up to keep her happy – Ma was a lousy housewife – a slattern, really – but she was a musician, and an academic – what more in life could a lad want? The word “love” was never mentioned in those times – but it was there, sprongfuls of it. After the ‘tay’ was taken up the wobbly stairs to the Ma, I was ready to go. My older brothers, Jim and Alec, were

getting the gear ready. Last minute job – as usual. We were readying for the three mile trip to Knockdrinagh, a favourite hill for rabbits and woodpigeons – both of which brought in a few handy bob in winter time. But it was timber we were after this time out – or rather, the brothers were. Busy now hunting up cross-cut saw, hatchet, sledgehammer, and a few steel wedges. Also a rope, in case the wounded tree refused to fall. A not uncommon problem – making tree–felling a dangerous game, right up to this modern day. Only the one bike in the house – a sturdy Raleigh – bought by the ever efficient Jim. The two lads up on the bike, gear tied on with the rope, and myself ‘ready to trot’ all the way to Knockdrinagh; no bother to me. Down past the hovel of ‘the Maid of the Poor’ as she was called, on past the home of a woman so obsessed with Shirley Temple that she named her little tot after that tiny star, up past where Bob Cody was out with the new-fangled binder, and it clicketty-clacking along, spitting out a bound sheave every few clacks. And good son Ray making stooks as he followed the magic machine. On we wsojourned, with my bare toes kicking up little puffs of dust from the unpaved roads and lanes. Knockdrinagh

loomed into sight, my first view of that famous hill, almost entirely covered with furze and trees; mighty oaks, graceful poplars – their leaves tickling and fluttering in the breeze. We got half way up the hill when jim said “That’s the one” – a great elm monster, with a skelp of bark knocked off to identify it. Culleton, from Kilkenny, the contractor - had said “It’ll be ‘blazed’ – keep yourself in line with two farmhouses back behind you as you climb the hill”. He wasn’t wrong. The lads set to with the crosscut, having cut a huge notch with the hatchet in the side opposite their cutting, to encourage the tree to fall that way. We bore in mind that a wayward tree had ended the young life of a local lad on this very hill, short years before. Anyway, Jim had allowed for wind direction and slope – he could do no more. The rope should not be needed – although attached, payed out, and ready. All went well, they sharpened the saw halfways through, and drove two wedges in. The wind was steady, not swinging about, but I was ordered back a safe distance. A bit more sawing, a few hefty hammer slaps on the wedges, and, with a mournful groaning sound, the green giant toppled and fell almost exactly as intended.

Lots to Discover in Bundoran Bundoran in County Donegal has been a staycationer’s favourite for hundreds of years, offering a multitude of activities, family accommodation, eating and drinking opportunities, and entertainment options as well as spectacular outdoor amenities and unrivalled views on the Wild Atlantic Way. Known as Ireland’s #SurfCapital, the Donegal seaside town is a haven for outdoor sports enthusiasts with surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding and SUPing all on offer. The traditional sports of golfing, angling (sea, river & lake) and horseriding are all catered for in the town while walking on the famous Roguey Cliff Walk is a must for that end of day relaxation. For the more adventurous, year round outdoor swimming is available in two man made

freshwater pools (Thrupenny & West End) which attract swimmers across the twelve months. These tidal pools are naturally filled daily by water from the Atlantic Ocean. If it’s tradition you’re after, check out Bundoran’s original tourist attraction – the Fairy Bridges and Wishing Chair. So called as locals believed this natural sea arch to be haunted by fairies. The nearby wishing chair offers the chance for dreams to come true but only by strictly following the ritual. For family fun, Waterworld has reopened this year with its numerous slides, pools and other water attractions – there’s four sessions daily so make sure to book early to avoid disappointment! When you’re done there, head on over to Bundoran Adventure Park right on the seafront

with its fairground atmosphere and fun carnival rides including the View Wheel offering stunning panoramas of Bundoran from 36 metres above the ground! You could also relax at Bundoran Seaweed Baths that will rejuvenate you in a tranquil environment with numerous therapeutic benefits. Finally don’t be caught short for something to eat or drink, or indeed somewhere to stay! From hotels to B&Bs to self-catering and hostels, every budget is catered for while you won’t go hungry with Irish and international cuisine with dining options right across town. Bundoran has something to offer everyone – why not discover it for yourself in 2022! For more see www.discoverbundoran.com

Now the hachet again, as all small boughs and branches were lopped off, the lads working with great speed. Soon the fallen colossus was reduced to sections that could be lifted by a few men. As if by clockwork, a fine lorry appeared, grinding through bushes and gorse with no bother at all. “The bould Culleton” said Alec, who knew said KK City man well. No mucking about for this lad, he was out and throwing on branches like a Goliath. Between us all we loaded up the big lorry in new time, then up goes our bike. The tools were hidden in the furze, well out of sight, for another day. Then up the three of us get on the back of the lorry with the timber, and off we go. I wondered, in the way children do, if the dead tree somehow knew that it was leaving its birthplace. But soon Culleton’s rather hairy driving style meant we had to be on the alert for shifting logs. No Health and Safety laws then - “ya took yer chance” The bike took a few small hits, we hopped and jumped. On we swept, blasting along at a savage thirty miles an hour, between the dying hedges of late summer, by villages I’d never heard of in all of in my six or seven-year old life. As we passed one sleepy little hamlet, I looked backwards and saw a

cloud of feathers – which meant one RIP hen hadn’t timed her run to perfection - and paid the ultimate price for her badspeed day. Very soon, at this demonic speed, we were in Kilkenny City, my first time. Over a huge bridge and a silver river, and we charged recklessly up the ancient streets, creating mayhem amongst cats and dogs, who were unused to spectacular traffic of our kind. Maybe they just liked a bit of excitement, like all of us. And Culleton had a name to live up to. I forget the full route, but we ended up at The Woolen Mills, I think near a Railway Station. Maybe a canal. I know we fired off the timber by a long line of sheds, the rain now pouring down. ‘Milling down’, as we used to say. Job done, and Alec took his share of the spoils from Culleton, and off with him towards a local pub, not to return home to Baurscoobe for several days. Drinking and card-playing would have left him destitute again. Similar to all the rest of his days on this planet. Jim, a life-long teetotaller, put me up on the crossbar of the Raleigh, and down we went, into the guts of the lovely KK Town. Into Hickmans, where a fine icecream was provided for me. Then down to Woolworths. I can still remember the lovely

rich smell of that place, which I looked on as the ‘Centre of Civlisation’. Which it was, in those innocent days – to many who had little. Then Jim bought me two great ‘sponge’ balls for handball and hurling – both with beautiful mixed colours on. After that, it was out and off home with me on the crossbar again, Jim pedalling the hard ten miles to Baurscoobe, via Kells, in the rain. The best day of my young life, made possible by a generous and good brother. I was in Kalgoorlie in West Australia when the dear Jim Egan died. The local priest – a good lad – heard my loved brother was ‘on the way out’. He kindly gave me the key of his Church, saying “If you need it, boy”. When Jim went on his Last Journey, I went into the Church, late at night, and cried my heart out for the loss of a great brother. Next day, I returned the key to the priest, telling him I’d said no prayers, only cried for Jim. “Ah, what better place to mourn than the Church” he said. “Tears can be as good as prayers, betimes”. Ned E Disclaimer The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the author do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of The Kilkenny Observer.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

Feature Lunch & Theatre at 3 John’s Quay

The Quiet Land by Malachy McKenna Lunchtime Theatre

Rural Ireland today! Two elderly small farmers who have witnessed much change in their community meet between their adjoining farms. An age-old ritual of small talk, farming news, sporting yarns is now peppered with uncertainty and fear. Eamon and Nashee are men of heart, of humour, of hardness but now they are faced with some heartbreaking truths that will test their long-held friendship to its limits and define their future. The play is a celebration of humour, resilience, and endearing innocence of an exiled generation as it struggles to survive in the isolated rural Ireland of today. “The Quiet Land is my heartfelt tribute to a rare breed of forgotten men who live a long way in off the road,” says playwright Malachy McKenna who won the PJ O’Connor Radio Drama Award in 2014 for the original drama which he subsequently adapted for the stage. Renowned local actors Ger Cody and Brendan Corcoran play Nashee and Eamon respectively; directed by Philip Hardy with design team Harry Harris, Joan Brennan, and Vincent Dempsey. Barnstorm launches its Lunchtime Theatre programme in collaboration with the Home Rule Club as

part of AKA – the fringe festival during the Kilkenny Arts Festival 04 -13 August. A set lunch will be served to be enjoyed as part of the theatre experience.

Tickets incl. set lunch €15 are available to book on https://barnstormquietland.eventbrite.ie DATES: 4-13th August 1 PM

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

Feature

The city fathers were very much aware the handicap to the city trade that dependence on land transport represented. They were anxious to see a canal on the Nore to make it navigable from the sea. Goods had always been transported by water but this trade was centered on Thomastown rather than Kilkenny. A charter was granted there in 1707 to a company of cotmen. Their chief business was to transport goods to and from Kilkenny in flat bottomed boats. Such boats could only carry a limited quantity of goods and so in the age of canals, one should be envisaged to link the city to the sea. An act passed in 1751 appointed Commissioners who were made a body corporate and given the title ”The Corporation for promoting and carrying on an Inland Navigation in Ireland” and by that name should have perpetual succession. The said Corporation were empowered to treat and agree with the owners of land which should be made use of for making the canal. It was enacted that all lands, bridges, locks, drains, trenches, tow paths, should be vested in said Corporation and their successors for ever. “And any person convicted of damage thereto should forfeit treble the sum necessary for repair thereof and be committed to the common gaol of the county until said sum be paid.” The prime movers of the project were William Evans Morres and William Colles. Morres as Mayor had a survey carried out in 1755 and petitioned the trustees of the inland navigation for approval for the scheme. Parliament responded generously to the appeal and granted £10,000 for the work. This was followed in 1767 by further grants to a total of £23,250. So little progress had been made that there was a Parliamentary inquiry into the project in 1768. The petitioners had stated the whole canal might be constructed to carry vessels of 100 tons for £10,000, which Parliament had granted in full. This estimate was highly optimistic despite it having been made by the renowned canal builder Omer. ADVICE SOUGHT William Morres went to the best canal engineer in the country for advice. The advice reflected little credit on Omer. The work had been carried out by William Ockenden who had been accorded the rare privilege of the freedom of the city to mark confidence in his work. In fairness to Omer he had proposed to carry out the work at his own expense using the river bed. Ockenden had recommended the construction of a separate canal at a cost of £22,600. In this he was wise for Omer seems to have taken little ac-

count of the tendency of the Nore to major floods. The bridge of Kilkenny was swept away in 1447, 1564, and 1763 when both bridges were destroyed in one night. Parliament came to the rescue granting £5417 for the rebuilding of the bridges.

Omer conceded that if public money was available Ockenden’s scheme was the best. A serious mistake was made in giving way to the pressure from the Corporation to commence the navigation in Kilkenny and work towards the sea.

A series of locks were constructed on a four mile stretch to join the river at Maiden hall. The work was incomplete when Ockenden died and was replaced by George Smith. Then William Colles took up the contract to widen, deepen and clear the bed of the river to

Thomastown. Other contractors were to carry the canal on the river from Thomastown to Inistioge. Colles was to get £1200, and the others £1300 for their work. Some of Ockenden’s work had been destroyed by floods and great gates were required

at Kilkenny along with additional locks at a further cost of £5500 to prevent the destruction of the canal also a 16 miles towpath was required. Parliament once more voted the additional sums requested and added a further £3000 in 1773.

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Feature

he Kilkenny Canal With thanks to Cois Céim and The Saturday Walkers group

Plan of the Kilkenny Canal from the Journal of the Irish House of Commons

Canal from Thomastown towards Inistioge

The lodge at the entrance to The Canal walk Kilkenny

CORPORATION VOTED THAT NO DUTY BE PAID The Corporation remained optimistic and in 1761 voted all goods passing from Bennetsbridge to the City should pay no duty for ten years. In 1764 Sir William Morres in anticipation of success bought

land along the river on St Johns side constructed a quay and planned ware houses. Alderman Colles an early advocate of the canal scheme writing about it to a friend as early as 1743. He may have been the one who persuaded the Corpora-

tion to take up the scheme fourteen years later. In 1737 he had approached Warden Flood for a £12,000 Parliamentary grant. He recognised the work would be expensive and with his own expanding marble works business it was only natural

he should view the canal with enthusiasm. He was exporting to Bristol and in 1747 he complained that carriage of his marble to Dublin cost him 3s 6d a cwt. He wrote to the county member, Speaker Ponsonby to urge further support for the canal scheme. The figure given by Colles to the Earl of Bessborough in 1755 was £14,326 so he cercer tainly would not have acceptaccept ed Omer’s figure of £10,000 as a reality. Great floods delayed work on the navigation. in 1763 the great flood swept away John’s bridge with a loss of life and damage to the canal works. There were many in the city who doubted the viabilviabil ity of the scheme and the solitary boat to reach St John’s Quay is long rememremem bered. ParliaParlia ment had refused to continue the grants unless a boat was unloaded there. A boat was dragged by horses along the dry bed of the unfinished canal and unloaded of its cargo of hides. The city celebrated with mock rejoicing and Colles won his side bet with the doubters. A far from satisfied Parliament ordered a further inquiry and found it “as useless as if it had never begun”. Three years earlier (1775) a further £3000 was granted, at the time of the inquiry £786 had not been spent. Further inquiries showed the £2750 grant made in 1775 had not been spent and needed to be accounted for. The Committee found that William Colles (now deceased) was paid £1200 but had not completed the work he contracted. Nor had the other contractors for the lower reaches completed their work. Nor were they satisfied with Sir William Evans Morres, deceased who had given little strict account of the money paid to him. The Committee urged the completion of the work as highly beneficial to the county and demanded the contractors should honour their commitments. It is hard to know whether little had occurred other than inability to carry out such work

or inefficiency. The Committee were certainly far from pleased and felt that public money had been pocketed with too great ease by Colles and Morres. Tighe judged the whole scheme ill conceived. COLLAPSE OF SCHEME The public money was never recovered and the scheme collapsed. On the 25th March 1786 the funds for the canal expired and it was deemed expedient that all powers given to the said Corporation should cease and be dissolved and all towpaths, lands, trackways, locks, etc. should be vested in the local Commissioners. It was also enacted that any person should wilfully damage any lock, towing path, bank etc. and such person being convicted should be guilty of felony and be transported for seven years or be fined, whipped, or imprisoned according to the direction of the Court. By this Act the Mayor of Kilkenny who was one of the local Commissioners was one of those in whom the old canal with its trackways, lands, and locks then vested. Later the same year, the scheme was revived and seventy three investors headed by John Butler, future Earl of Ormonde, subscribed £16,800 for a new canal. William Chapman was employed to modify the old scheme and to cross the river Nore once only and to descend to Thomastown by fourteen locks. This work was to be carried out for £19,729 about half of what Parliament had spent on the original plan. An overall cost of £30,000 was envisaged to make the canal perfect to the tide. By1802 the only stretch in use lay between Thomastown and Inistioge. An attempt to link Kilkenny to the river Barrow met with little success, eight miles were constructed and then abandoned. In 1808 yet another scheme was presented by Mr. Joyce and a plan was made to extend the grand canal to Castlecomer. Not surprisingly Parliament in Tighe’s day showed little interest in Kilkenny canals. The Railway was to solve the problem, but too late for the manufacturing industries of the city. In 1872,Patrick Watters published a history of the Kilkenny Canal in which he wrote, “Proving how man proposes, but God disposes, Nothing is easier than to find fault, after others have done things which often those finding fault would probably not done half as well. But I believe our ancestors

began the canal at the wrong end. Had they begun in Inistioge and advanced towards Kilkenny then every mile completed would have been of use, and had it even come to Thomastown and no farther it might have been better for Kilkenny in a commercial point of view. But in that case we would never have had our far famed “Canal Walk” THE CANAL WALK AND LOCKS The land used to construct the canal was eventually turned into a public walk and park for the citizens of Kilkenny. The first Ordnance Survey map of the city showed this walk in the 1830s. The entrance was made more impressive by the generosity of two mayors, Edmond Smithwick and Dr Robert Cane. The gates were the gift of Edmond Smithwick, Mayor in 1844.and the lodge built in 1849 the gift of Robert Cane, who gave his salary as Mayor to pay for its construction. The first lock we meet is Scotts Lock, very close to the Ormonde Mills the water course is crossed by a bridge leading to a dwelling house in the grounds of the old mill. In the 18th Century these mills were owned by the Scott family. Part of the stonework of the lock can still be seen by the bridge. Further along the walk we find Quarry gate and bridge so named because it was near the Black Quarry, where Kilkenny’s Black Marble was quarried. Situated close by is Crow’s Well Lock, it was also known as Spa Well. In 1757 the Commissioners wrote “That at Crows Well there is a fine stone lock, two hundred feet in length and twenty one feet in breadth, with all its gates, sluices etc. which falls ten feet” Although most of the lock is now gone, some of the stonework can still be seen. Walking through the fields one discovers Archersgrove lock. Then on the lands of Kilfera there were two locks. Then at Maddockstown there was one stone lock. Then at Dunbell there was a double lock which falls ten feet into Ballyreddin pond which is within a half mile of Bennetsbridge. In 1761 this work and locks would have made a navigation of five miles of the river Nore possible. Sources: Kilkenny An Urban History, W.G.Neely The Kilkenny Canal, 1872 Journal of the Royal Society of Antiquaries. Patrick Watters.

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High tech firm Stryve in major UK acquisition Carlow-based cybersecurity and private cloud company Stryve has acquired London-based digital communications agency Atticus Creative as part of a €1m investment in the UK market. Stryve has rebranded Atticus, whose clients include the Harley Street Clinic, to Stratticus, which it has launched in the Irish and UK markets.

A partnership with Atticus means Stryve will provide Stratticus clients with services such as secure website hosting while the digital agency’s creative team will provide Stryve clients with website design, user experience and smart communication tools. The Irish company is setting up a data centre in London to cater to

these clients. “We hear regularly about websites getting compromised and their data stolen,” Stryve CEO Andrew Tobin said. “Now you can work with an agency for your website that also has a team making sure your website is impregnable. “We have interest from sectors like pharma, financial services,

legal services — anywhere that needs sensitive information to be stored.” Stryve, which has data centres in Ireland and Poland, is carving out a niche selling private cloud technology to SMEs across Ireland and Europe. Within the last year, it has opened its EU sales office in Poland, a tech hub in Morocco,

and secured EU contracts. The tech firm is on track to post revenue of €6m this year. “Our ambition is to become Europe’s largest private cloud market and we want to provide local data storage in each country,” Mr Tobin said. “There is a huge geopolitical play going on at the moment. With Brexit, you have companies

in Ireland with UK operations who want their UK data stored in Ireland. “We had a Ukrainian company say it wants its data in the EU, and the EU Commission has moved some data to us because they said they can’t use US providers like Microsoft as US company data can be rerouted to the US,” he said.

Power cuts risk ‘acute’ warning by commission A warning that a risk to power supply in Ireland is “acute” has been issued by the commission for regulating electricity, amid fears of significant outages and collateral damage to government policy on climate change. The latest risk register for the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) scored challenges to supply at five out of five for impact, and four out of five for the likelihood of them happening. This created a risk calculated at 20 out of 25 that electricity supply needs would not be met between now and 2025. It warned of the potential for “loss of load expectation, expectation higher than target and/or significant events occurring during the period such as significant outages”. The risk register added: “It has the potential to hamper public sentiment for Climate Action Plan and the transition to a low carbon future.” The CRU also warned that inadequate resources were affecting its ability to deliver on its objectives, compounded by requirements to accelerate work on climate targets and deal with supply issues. It said there was a risk of delays to key work, as well as the possibility of “burnout of existing staff and potential retention issues”. It also said recruiting new staff required significant effort and cost, but that vacancies in the regulator were down to six, with two jobs currently advertised. The CRU also said some resources had been reassigned to priority areas including security of supply. The raw risk from

inadequate resources was scored at 25 out of 25, according to the register, released under Freedom of Information (FOI). Concerns were also raised about the system for ensuring that demand for electricity was always met over the next three years. This risk was scored at 15 out of 25. A project management office has been set up between CRU, Eirgrid, and the Department of the Environment to tackle the energy supply crunch. “This (office) co-ordinates regular update reports on the programme including current risks and issues and the status of the actions/ mitigations,” said the register. Concerns were also raised over the CRU’s systems for managing records, with the risk of “loss, mismanagement, or misuse” of data. It said a new records retention policy was needed to ensure compliance with laws like FOI as well as manage “inefficiencies due to records or data not being retrievable”. The CRU also flagged the possibility that Brexit would make procurement with the utility regulator in Northern Ireland more complicated. The risk register said: “As the UK is outside the EU, the EU Exit Procurement agreement will have legal implications on our ability to jointly issue contract notices for services.” It said this carried a risk of inadvertently breaking procurement law with the potential for claims made by third parties for breaches. However, a spokesperson for the CRU said these issues around joint procurement had since been addressed and closed off.

Get walking... to raise €250k. for Alzheimer’s Comedian Neil Delamere and beauty expert and entrepreneur Pamela Laird (pictured) are inviting the people of Kilkenny to the annual Alzheimer’s Memory Walk Fundraiser supported by Irish Life The annual walk takes place nationwide on Sunday, September 18, during World Alzheimer’s Month 2022. Alzheimer’s Memory Walk is a family-friendly event suitable for all ages and abilities to unite together with their families and communities to raise awareness and funds for dementia supports. The ASI hopes that 3,000 walkers across Ireland will help us raise €250,000 for vital services that help to support so many people with dementia and their

family carers across Ireland. An estimated 1,413 people live with dementia in Kilkenny, and 64,000 people live with dementia in Ireland which will more than double in the next 25 years to over 150,000 by 2045. Walk with your household, family, friends and pets; it’s guaranteed to be a fun event. You can choose where you walk, whether your back garden or the local park. Family-friendly prices are €8 for children and €20 for adults. THREE EASY STEPS TO WALK TOGETHER * Sign up: Register on www.memorywalk. ie we’ll send you your Walk Participant Pack and

t-shirt * Plan your route for Sunday, 18th September and Let’s Walk Together * Share photos and videos of Your Walk on Social Media, and remember to use the hashtags #ASIMemoryWalk #LetsWalkTogether #PowerOfSupport Neil Delamere said: “The ASI really relies on funds to keep its supports and services going such as day care, home care, dementia advisers, family carer training, Alzheimer cafes and social clubs. As demand continues to increase, so does the pressure on these support services; every day, at least 30 people are diagnosed with dementia in Ireland – even people in

their 30s/40s/50s. We can all lend a hand and support this important fundraising campaign.” Pamela Laird is delighted to back the campaign and has shared her family connection with dementia as her father, Sylvester, was diagnosed with dementia in 2016. The Dublin-based entrepreneur has said while the family started noticing changes with her father as far back as 2010, the dementia diagnosis was still very challenging for them all to deal with – especially when the pandemic. The former Dragons Den and the BBC’s Apprentice contestant wants to spotlight dementia during World Alzheimer’s Month and encourage others to reach out for support.

2,500 keep a roof over their heads Threshold advisors prevented 1,133 households from entering homelessness between April and June 2022. In total, 1,554 adults and 1,028 children avoided homelessness and managed to remain secure in their homes on foot of Threshold’s assistance.

Given the increasing level of landlords selling or moving into their rented property combined with the challenges households are facing during the cost-of-living crisis, Threshold is crucial in helping families stay in their homes. Previous trends concerning

tenancy terminations remain a major concern, with Threshold advisors reporting 60% of clients were at risk of homelessness due to a tenancy termination issued by their landlord. One in two landlords issued a notice of termination on the grounds of sale of the

property, while 17% of landlords stated that they required the property for their own use. Just under half of tenancy termination notices reviewed by Threshold advisors were found to be valid, resulting in the requirement for the tenant to vacate the property.

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Annual Kilkenny book and coin fair Sat. 30th July 2022 Club house hotel 11a.m to 5p.m The Annual Kilkenny Book Fair will be held in the Club House Hotel on Saturday 30/07/2022 starting at 11 A.M and finishing at 5 P.M. There will be in attendance around 10 Book sellers from all over Ireland bringing together an eclectic mix of Books, pamphlets, maps and ephemera etc. Topics and Titles covering such subjects as History, Military, Topography, Biographies and Politics will be on display. Many of the antiquarian collections are from 200 to 300 years old. Upwards of 5,000 books will be there for both the avid and average reader to peruse. Included also are two Coin and medal stands displaying many rare and collectible items from the past and present. These items are being offered for sale by Seamus O’Connor Dublin and Kieran O’Brien from Wexford. These two coin specialists have attracted great interest in the past couple of years and many new enthusiasts have been impressed by the collections on view. Local Kilkenny History publications printed over the past century will also be for sale at very reasonable prices. Booksellers from other adjoining counties will also have a similar selection of historical works. Many topographical publications covering most of the 32

counties will also be on offer. Local and National writers of both fiction and non-fiction will also be available such as Donal McCauley, Frances McManus, John B Keane, John Bradley, John Kirwan etc. Back issues of annual publications, like the Old Kilkenny Review, The Irish Sword, The Steeple and many more will be of interest to many collectors. Geata Buidhe Books from Thomastown, also provides a wide variety of Local, National and International titles and topics to interest all bibliophiles. Its proprietor Joe Doyle is one of Kilkenny’s local historians and his collection includes many publications of both County and Provincial interest. Both Joe Doyle and Noel Bourke have published books of Local Interest in the past year. These will be available for sale and signed by the authors. Other local Booksellers attending are Paulstown Books, Well Read Books, Waterford, O’Neill Books, Thomastown, Bourke Books Kilkenny, Kieran O’Brien Wexford, Pat Dunne Kildare and Joe Collins from Dublin. Many of the books on offer are from private libraries carefully collected over a lifetime and will be of great interest to the more serious browser who is in search of that elusive gem or rare first edition.

Not all books have a serious relevance as there are books to suit every conceivable taste on offer, including works of Fiction, Romantic novels and that bizarre unusual publication that now and then catches the eye and incites further investigation. After an absence of over two years due to Covid restrictions we would like to welcome all our regular patrons and new ones back again to our venue at the Club House Hotel. The Arts Week Book Fair has been in existence for almost 40 years and continues to fulfil a local need and interest amongst the many avid readers. Apart from our usual visitors we would also welcome the general public and tourists to come along and peruse the diverse range of books on offer at very reasonable prices where a bargain or two can be availed of on Saturday next 30/07/2022 commencing at 11.00 A.M.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

Feature

BY FRANK CODY

Saturday mornings, during childhood, brought freedom from classroom confines. There was an escape from ‘bhfuil cead agam”’and the equally repetitive ‘cuir amach do lámh’. Released from the spirit-numbing repression, we welcomed frivolous weekends with exuberance. Admittedly they got off to a slow start, courtesy of mundane chores. Yards had to be tidied, shopping expeditions made, ‘messages’ collected. Yard duty saw me ensconced in the shed, seeking the soft path, perusing the exploits of Desperate Dan or The Bash Street Kids. Again, my easily distracted amblings meant serious delay in obtaining shopping items. Therefore it was my lot to procure the coal. Off with the wheelbarrow, down Ballybought Street across the ’Comer Road, descending into the bowels of the Gas House to collect a half hundred weight of sea coal. If there is a more technical name for this pulverized bituminous fuel, I am unaware of it. The working environs to a young mind was a wonderland. Men were stripped to the waist shovelling coal into sacks and casually throwing them on large scales to be weighed. Satisfied, they would heft it into the wheelbarrow and you were ready.

Jim Langton: Poetry in motion and one of Kilkenny’s greatest stylists. His name was certain to be mentioned as men waited for their haircut at Finns. PHOTO: Courtesy of ‘the Stripy men book’.

Sacred Saturdays, and wonderful memories of shops from John Street to Newpark

enInitial en deavours, with the stuffed sack lying flat along the bottom of the barrow, made the return journey a Enlightenstruggle. Enlighten ment came when my father showed me how to ease the burden by bringing the sack upright to the front of the barrow. My obvious joy at this discovery delighted him: “Typical… You’re so busy learning the tricks of the trade you

haven’t time to learn the trade” (aka ‘The Parable of the Radical Son’). The day, flammable material safely home, was all mine – well, almost. Two other impediments, on alternate Saturdays, halted progress. The first was Confession. Why a preteen needed to attend this service with such regularity baffled me. Attendance during teenage years was, perhaps, a tad more necessary. Reciting my misdemeanours, I appreciated the darkened box.

Always did so until a long time cleric of the parish interrupted “Bless me, Father” with “Hello, Frankie, how are you?” Never again, I pledged, as I regained the daylight. The second impediment was a haircut. Like confession, the twice monthly trip to the barber seemed a smidge excessive. Neither my sins nor my hair, I thought, needed such minute attention. The family barber of choice was John Finn. Making my way, I clutched a ‘tanner’

for the haircut and ‘thruppence’ for a treat afterwards. Distractions multiplied as I neared the destination. Mac Tiernan’s sweet shop had a collection of exotic confectionery. Daly’s ensured a vast array of comic books were visible through the window. The Mascot was full of creamy delights. Entry into the barber shop seemed a visit back in time, even in the 1960s. This emporium was old fashioned. The brightly lit room had, parallel to the back wall, a

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

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Feature

Wilsdons shop on John Street

same, short back and sides, no deviation. Adjustable seating had yet to discover John Street. So children sat perched on a board placed across the arms of the chair. On completion, a generous amount of oil was massaged into the scalp prior to the final comb. If nothing else, it kept flying insects at bay. Departing, anxious to spend the thruppence, I would recall my mother’s prophesy that I was bound for Borstal. I laughed to think, if it was to be, I had the haircut for it. Ignoring earlier attractions, I would race to Paddy Kirwan’s on the corner of the ’Comer Road and Ballybought Street. Within those walls tobacco, bread, biscuits, sweets, butter, jams lived in close proximity, producing a glorious and unique aroma. My choice was bullseyes and acid drops, packed into paper bags. John Street Kilkenny. A rich array of shops attracted many customers to the Eastern side of John’s bridge. PHOTO: by Oliver of Kilkenny from the archive ‘Oliver’s old Kilkenny’.

Legends of John Street, Billy O Sullivan ( RIP) and John Joe Cullen

long timber bench polished by generations of queuing bottoms. Ageing men crammed the shop. Squeezing in, you waited, patiently. Talk and cigarette smoke engulfed the room. Hurling chat dominated. Here I first heard of Jimmy Langton and relished the exploits of the county’s most potent goal scorer, Sam Carroll. Two high-backed chairs, for clients, fronted mirrors. Shelves along the wall contained jars of Brylcreem,

various hair oil preparations, combs, scissors, wigs and other paraphernalia of the trade. Gazing at the scarcity of hair on seated heads, you would imagine the visit would be a quick one. Not a chance! John Finn was a perfectionist who took particular pride in his work. Each head got the full treatment. Clippers and scissors were wielded expertly, with a step back, a slight adjustment, until the tonsorial result satisfied the master. Young or old, the cut was the

A weekly trip to Gas House Lane to collect a half hundred weight of sea coal. The name is all that remains. PHOTO: Peter Martin

A pragmatic choice, since Paddy always gave extra. I would venture onwards, my penny change allowing the purchase of two Black Jacks in Meaney’s. Carefully, for it was to last three days, I would divide the bounty, storing it safely under the mattress. A few surreptitious visits to sample the goods saw a mental realignment and acknowledgement that the booty would only last the weekend. Three o’clock brought consternation and devastation on discovering the stockpile had completely disappeared. I always suspected there was a little man residing under my bed. The remainder of the afternoon passed in a flurry of activity with friends, before the final bit of tradition. Every Saturday, seven o’clock onwards, all the boys had a weekly bath ¬-- whether we needed it or not. Afterwards, sitting around the wire-

A 1956 photo of Michael Bretts hardware shop on John Street

less, the family listened to ‘Dear Sir or Madam’ with John O’Donovan, as busy day eased into somnolent evening. Today, as I stroll the city, I often glimpse, in shop windows, an overweight man, a

constant companion. And I realize, however belatedly, who it was that lived under my bed and devoured all those treats. Extra photos with thanks to Denis Brett

Online

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News

Nearly two thirds worry about struggling to pay the bills Alone, the organisation that supports older people to age safely and securely at home, has called on the Government to increase the State Pension by €20 for older people in Budget 2023. In its pre-budget submission on Friday to the Department of Social Protection, it calls for minimum increases of €20 to the State Pension, the Living Alone Allowance, and the Fuel Allowance. The organisation is asking for an expansion of the Fuel Allowance Scheme from 28 to 35 weeks. Research carried out with older people who use Alone’s services has shown that nearly three quarters are “very” or “extremely” concerned about the increases in cost of living. Nearly two thirds worry about struggling to pay the bills. As we head into an Autumn and winter that is now the land of the unknown due to matters outside our control as international events are hitting our standard of living especially our seniors. Increases in heating, food costs and housing maintenance are the highest areas of concern.

On a national level, CSO data shows that those aged 65 and over were the only group to see increases across all three poverty rates between 2020 and 2021, according to Alone. Almost 92,000 older people are at risk of or experiencing consistent poverty in Ireland today. “Government have committed previously to benchmarking the State pension, which was due to begin in 2021, and on several occasions previously,” said Alone CEO Seán Moynihan, “This did not happen”. If it had, older people would not be struggling to the extent they are today with the increases in the cost of living. “We are hugely concerned about what the ongoing impact of inflation on older people will look like this

winter and in 2023. The organisation is calling for Government to make a two-year commitment of increases of a minimum of €20 to the State Pension, in line with benchmarking promises made in the Roadmap for Social Inclusion. Even with this increase the senior’s pension will still be less than what the government calls the poverty line of €295 per week. The requested increase of €20 will bring State pension to €273, €22 less than the poverty line, which is now an out of date figure as it was set prior to the current inflation we are now experiencing across the board. Should we be aiming for the state pension to be at a minimum the poverty line that the researchers promote as fact based.

Cuckoo festival lays a nest egg for Teac Tom Saturday July 9th saw the ‘Cuckooland’ collective’ gather together for their second ‘Cuckoo’ festival at Ryan’s pub on Friary Street. Apart from what all agreed was a brilliant weekend of music, the charity Teac Tom benefitted to the tune of €1,400. Friary Street publican Arthur Drohan complimented all involved while Angela Hayes from Teac Tom said she was thrilled that so many people were prepared to give so freely

of their time to raise funds for the charity. ‘Club Cuckooland’ was conceived over the pandemic as a loose collection of friends, musicians and DJ’s who occasionally gather to perform pop – up events with fun and frolics. This year’s festival saw superb performances from local Kilkenny acts such as The Cuckoos, Banjaxed, Captain Anchor, and Oracle Villa. DJ duties was in the capable hands of Model T, Johnnie

Jukebox and Bootsy Butle . All in all a great festival was had with over €1,400 raised for Teac Tom. A spokesperson for the festival thanked all who made the weekend work and said they were thrilled to be able to hand over the funds to such a great cause. Further plans from Cuckooland include ‘All together now’ and The Electric Picnic festival. Anyone interested in helping Teach Tom are asked to phone 056 7796592.

And that’s a wrap. Band members, DJ’s and organisers present Angela Hayes from Teach Tom with a cheque for €1,400. Also in the photo is Arthur Drohan from Ryan’s pub.

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Food & Drink

Dine Me Come

With

Butterflied leg of lamb with lavender, honey & claqueret Prep: 20 mins Cook: 35 mins Serves: 8

cover and chill in the fridge, but remember to take it out and bring it to room temperature before serving. STEP 2 Heat oven to 220C/200C fan/gas 7. Lay the lamb out flat, fleshside up, and use a small knife to make incisions all over both the flesh and fat sides (they can be deeper on the flesh side). Crush the garlic with some sea salt using a pestle and mortar, then add the lavender leaves and flowers, olive oil, lemon, balsamic vinegar and honey to make a rough paste.

In France, claqueret is used as a dip for radishes or bread, but the goat’s cheese, garlic and herbs in this cheese-based sauce also work well with lamb. Ingredients • 2.25kg leg of lamb (pre-boned weight), butterflied (ask your butcher to do this) • 6 garlic cloves • 5 lavender sprigs , leaves and flowers chopped • 2 tbsp olive oil • 1 tbsp lemon juice • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar • 4 tbsp lavender honey For the claqueret • 400g fromage blanc • 100g soft goat’s cheese , crumbled • 6 tbsp crème fraîche • 3 shallots , finely chopped • 3 garlic cloves , crushed • 1 tbsp white wine vinegar • 1 tbsp dry white wine • 1 ½ tbsp extra virgin olive oil • 3 tbsp chives , finely chopped • 3 tbsp parsley , finely chopped • 3 tbsp chervil , finely chopped

STEP 3 Put the lamb in a roasting tin and push the paste into the incisions you made. Finish with the lamb fat-side up. Mix the glaze ingredients together and spoon this over the lamb. Season, then roast for 15 mins. For the glaze • 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar • 2 tbsp lavender honey • 2 lavender sprigs , leaves and flowers chopped Method STEP 1

To make the claqueret, mix all the ingredients together. The flavours need time to meld, so ideally you should do this a couple of hours ahead and keep it at room temperature until ready to serve. You can also make the claqueret further ahead,

STEP 4 Turn the heat down to 190C/170C fan/gas 5 and roast for another 20 mins. The lamb will be pink. Cover loosely with foil and allow to rest for about 10 mins. Carve, then serve with the cooking juices and the claqueret.

Samphire & crab salad Prep: 10 mins Cook: 13 mins Serves: 2-4 Enjoy this salad as a generous dinner for two, or as a light lunch or supper for four. Samphire sings when paired with crab and this zesty dressing. Ingredients • 2 slices of sourdough bread • 1½ tbsp rapeseed oil • 180g samphire • 1 lemon, juiced • 1 tbsp crème fraîche • 1 crab, brown and white meat separated (about 60g of each) • 1 tbsp chopped dill (optional) • 100g watercress Method

STEP 3 To make the dressing, combine the lemon juice, crème fraîche, remaining 1 tbsp rapeseed oil, the brown crabmeat and dill, if

Prep: 5 mins Serves: 2 Our tropical, rum-based hurricane cocktail is easy to make and sure to get your party started. Garnish with orange and cocktail cherries for a kitsch touch. Ingredients • 50ml dark rum • 50ml white rum • 1 passion fruit • 1 orange , juiced • 1 lemon , juiced • 50ml sugar syrup • 2 tsp grenadine To garnish • 4 cocktail cherries • 2 orange slices Method STEP 1 Fill a cocktail shaker with ice then add the rums. Scoop the flesh and seeds from the passion fruit and add to the shaker along with the orange and lemon juices, sugar syrup and grenadine. STEP 2 Shake well until the outside of the cocktail shaker feels icy cold. Fill two hurricane glasses with fresh ice then double strain the drink into the prepared glasses. STEP 3 Garnish each one with an orange slice skewered onto a cocktail stick and a couple of cocktail cherries.

Fruit punch

STEP 1 Heat the oven to 220C/200C fan/ gas 7. Tear the bread into rough chunks and put in a bowl with ½ tbsp rapeseed oil and a little seasoning. Toss well, then tip onto a baking tray. Bake for 8-10 mins until golden. Set aside. STEP 2 Bring a large pan of water to the boil and cook the samphire for 3 mins before draining and plunging into ice-cold water. Leave to cool for a few minutes before draining.

Hurricane cocktail

Prep: 10 mins Serves: 10-12 Make this fruit punch as a non-alcoholic drink for a summer party. With fresh fruit, mint, juice and lemonade, it’s wonderfully refreshing.

using, in a small bowl. Season, mix to evenly combine and set aside. STEP 4 Mix the watercress and drained

samphire together in a large bowl, drizzle over the dressing and toss well to coat. Serve on a platter or divide between plates, then top with the white crabmeat and croutons.

Ingredients • 8-10 strawberries , halved or sliced • ½ orange , sliced • ½ lemon , sliced • handful of mint leaves • large handful of ice • 500ml pineapple juice • 300ml orange juice • 300ml lemonade Method STEP 1 Put the fruit, mint and ice in a large jug. Pour in the juice, stir and top up with lemonade.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

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Advertisement TV & Streaming

to stream right now on Netflix

Why you need to watch this Amazon sci-fi film Stop scrolling on whatever streaming service you’ve been staring at, pop onto Prime Video and watch 2013’s low- budget sci-fi flick Coherence ASAP. The initial premise of Coherence is fairly simple. A few friends meet up for a dinner party the same night a mysterious comet is scheduled to fly overhead. It begins as many indie movies do, with a troubled love story, tension between exes and witty banter. Then the power goes out. It gets weird. Act two. Inexplicable events ensue while the ensemble of characters scramble to restore the power. Nothing is as it had seemed. Some start to doubt where they are, others are more concerned with who they are. This isn’t a movie

about longtime pals’ small talk. It’s a tale about them coming face- to-face with the terrifying truth of their reality. There are shocking revelations uncovered during the film. I can assure you, though, that the onscreen confusion is potent enough to force you to question your own sanity. The next hour or so overflows with plot twists that could rival those of 2010’s Shutter Island. The film also expertly alludes to scientific — and rather philosophical — concepts that have probably crossed the mind of the late Stephen Hawking. Coherence ties together the social, personal and existential consequences that would arise from a complex theory of space and

time with a heart-thumping mystery. Speckled with red herrings, easter eggs and a few ambiguities, Coherence is arguably one of the most mind-bending sci-fi films to date. Coherence, which occasionally verges on horror, was made with a scarce budget of just $50,000 and shot over a mere five days. For context, Alfonso Cuarón’s 2013 film, Gravity, was made with $100 million. Coherence elegantly tells the story of a group of friends grappling with actuality, navigating the frightening turns that reality can take — without the help of CGI, from only one location and with just the sounds of the actors’ voices. Director James Ward Byrkit even decided to forgo a script

for the quietly experimental film. “Each day, instead of getting a script, the actors would get a page of notes for their individual character, whether it was a backstory or information about their motivations,” he told IndieWire. Because the actors were left in the dark about how the story unfolds, any stress and perplexity in their performances is authentic. The film’s chaotic disarray was actually happening during the movie’s filming. Coherence will keep you guessing along with the actors, elicit audible gasps and make you feel a bit like a sci-fi spy. Hours after the credits roll, you might well experience chills as previously overlooked clues and nuances slowly wash over you.

The Crown, and Diana on Panorama Princess Diana’s infamous Panorama interview with Martin Bashir will never appear on the BBC again, but it will be explored in the Netflix show, The Crown. The Crown Season 5, coming in the autumn, will cover Princess Diana’s 1995 interview with Bashir. A source told Press Association (PA): “Season five of The Crown will dramatise events surrounding the Panorama interview, given the pivotal part it played during the time period the new series covers.”] The source added that this series will also include the up-to-date information that has since emerged. “It will reflect what we now know

about how the interview was obtained and how Diana was treated.” This includes the recent inquiry revelations that the Princess was coerced into doing the interview with forged documents and false allegations about ex-nannyTiggy Legge-Bourke’s affair with Prince Charles. This news has coincided with the announcement from the BBC that they will never again broadcast the infamous interview. Director-General of the BBC Tim Davie said: “Now we know about the shocking way that the interview was obtained, I have decided that the BBC will never show the programme

again, nor will we license it in whole or part to other broadcasters.” “It does of course remain part of the historical record and there may be occasions in the future when it will be justified for the BBC to use short extracts for journalistic purposes, but these will be few and far between and will need to be agreed at executive committee level and set in the full context of what we now know about the way the interview was obtained. I would urge others to exercise similar restraint,” concluded the Director general. This pledge was made following the inquiry by Lord Dyson which found that

the deceitful circumstances used to acquire the interview with the Princess, ‘fell short of high standards of integrity and transparency’ and were a ‘serious breach’ of guidelines. It has been repeated on many occasions that the Princess of Wales had regrets about this interview. Princess Diana’s ex-butler reveals her one main regret from Martin Bashir interview which was previously unshared by the Princess who died two years after this bombshell interview. The Royal Family has yet to comment on the inquiry or the decision from the BBC to no longer air the interview.

Once you’ve watched all bajillion hours of Stranger Things 4 and realise it’s not enough, take a look at this heir apparent to the Netflix megahit. Based on the Brian K. Vaughn comic series, Paper Girls on Apple TV follows four teen girls in 1988 who get caught up in a war between rival time-traveling factions from the future, who are at odds about whether to use time travel to change the past.

Netflix has released its highly-anticipated action-thriller The Gray Man, which stars Ryan Gosling as a CIA contractor on the run from Chris Evans, who has been sent to kill him because Gosling learned some incriminating secrets about the Agency. It’s the most expensive movie, based on the graphic novels of the same name.

Set primarily in Vatican City, this biographical drama from 2019 and on Netflix follows Pope Benedict XVI and Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio in the aftermath of the Vatican leaks scandal. It’s as fascinating as it sounds. The Two Popes carves up a slice of real-life drama with a firstclass two-hander featuring Jonathan Pryce and Anthony Hopkins.

This elegant Spanish film from 2018 will steep you in its rich imagery and phenomenally good performances from its two leads. Susi Sánchez and Bárbara Lennie star as Anabel and Chiara respectively, an estranged mother and daughter who reunite for reasons that aren’t as clear as they first seem. The precision of the filmmaking here is worthy of soaking up for those who are partial to deliberately paced meditations on pain, love and loss. Masterful. On Netflix.

Mudbound (2017) gives you a historical look at class struggle through the lens of a Black veteran and a white veteran who both still have one foot stuck in World War II. Dealing with PTSD and racism in the Mississippi Delta, with a cast that includes Garrett Hedlund and Jason Mitchell, Mudbound’s tempest will rivet you to the spot. Streaming on Netflix.

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Wexford’s Kiera steals the show at Gowran Park Ladies Day 2022

After a two-year Covid absence The Lyrath Estate and MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre Ladies Day returned to Gowran Park with a bang on Saturday as fashionistas from all over the Southeast converged on Gowran Park hoping to win the amazing top prize of a €1000 Voucher for MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre and a two-night break with dinner in the 5 Star Lyrath Estate Hotel. The person charged with the unenviable task of selecting the finalists and overall winner was Lorraine Booth of Style Boothique, after announcing her finalists and winner Lorraine said “It was such an honour to be invited as Guest Judge today, it was so wonderful to see everyone coming back through the gates here at Gowran Park. The style here today was impeccable, and it was no easy task to pick our finalists and of course, Kiera, who is such a deserving win-

ner. I loved that her accessories all had a little story behind them, having made her own headpiece and with such an overall elegant look, she really stood out today. Thank you so much to Eddie Scally and all at Gowran Park, the sponsors MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre & Lyrath Estate for such an enjoyable day.” Gowran Park manager Eddie added “we were delighted with today’s event, congratulations to Kiera a well-deserved winner. I want to say thank you again to our sponsors Lyrath Estate & MacDonagh Junction who not only sponsor our prizes but assist in the full running of the days event. I also would like to thank Lorraine Booth who done a wonderful job as our host and judge and finally all the ladies and Gents to put in the effort to make today such a good occasion, we were a little unlucky that we missed the heat wave by a day, but I don’t think it dampened the mood on track”.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

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Community & GAA Notes

or Josephine. Counselling Services: Our low cost Counselling Services, includes One-toOne, Family & Teens, aged 12 plus. General Counselling: Bereavement, Stress, Anxiety & Depression. Other Counselling Services available: Drug, Substance & Gambling Addictions. Please contact Sue for more information or to make an appointment. Appeal for Clothes Donations: Any clothes donations would be appreciated in aid of our counselling services. Donations can be left into the Centre, please call before dropping off. URLINGFORD ARMS SPLIT THE POT This week’s winner of Split the Pot was Yvonne Moriarty who won €674. Congrats Yvonne! Tickets €2 on sale in participating businesses in town with proceeds this week going to Urlingford Irish Dancing Club, thanks to everyone for their support. Well done to all that performed so well from the Irish Dancing Club in the Urlingford Arms Hotel on Sunday evening before the draw, it was a great performance. URLINGFORD / GRAINE DEFIBRILLATOR GROUP In case of emergency, call: 085 2726396. URLINGFORD NEWS Anyone wishing to submit news items, club events, announcements etc., can do so by emailing urlingfordnotes@gmail.com

U15S WIN The Clara U15s travelled to Dunnamaggin on Wednesday last and came away with a very solid 3-13 to 1-14 victory over the hosts. Goals by Philip Carrigan, Eoin Corr and Joe Power were enough to see them home. Team - Orí Phelan, Daniel Murohy, Hugh Kelly, James Cody. Conor Galvin, David Barcoe, Daniel Ryan. Philip Carrigan and Eoin Corr. Sean Byrne, Luke Lawlor, Padraig Meany. Billl Kealy, Joe Power, John Bergin. Subs used Tom Murphy, Tom Boyle, Aidan O Connell, Darragh Kenny. MINORS The minor hurlers lost their third game on the bounce at home to last years county finalists Tullogher Rosbercon on Tuesday of last week. 3-15 to 0-15 was how it finished and, while there was a touch of good fortune about all three Tullogher goals, there was no denying that they were full value for their win. The first half was an even enough affair but Tullogher got a vital goal midway through when hesitancy in the Clara defence allowed county minor Marty Murphy to flick it home from close range. This helped the visitors into a 1-8 to 0-9 lead at half time even though they had played against the breeze. When Rory Glynn (2) and Conor Hoyne scored three of the second half’s first four points the sides were level and suddenly Clara looked to be going well. However a Marty Murphy free was followed by another soft Tullogher goal and they never looked back. While the final score may have flattered them a little they were certainly the better team down the stretch. Next up for Clara is a trip to Dicksboro. Team - Luke Lawlor, Tommy Delaney, Ben Crow, Alex McDonald. Philip Carrigan, Zach Lawlor, Ben Murphy. Conor Hoyne 0-5, 0-4f, Davy Barcoe 0-1. Cian Kelly 0-1, Sean Carrigan,Eoin Corr. Ned Langton 0-3, Rory Glynn 0-5, Joe Power. Subs Alex Firbank, John Bergin, Dillon Cummins, Tom Boyle, Tom Murphy, Daniel Ryan, Bill Kealy. JUNIORS LOSE Clara’s Juniors were beaten by a slicker Lisdowney side at home on Saturday. They were headed 1-8 to 0-4 at halftime and it was evident even at that stage that Lisdowney’s forwards were much more dangerous and freescoring than Clara’s. Only Rory O Keeffe and Ciarán Prendergast had hit the mark for Clara at the break. Both of these players scored again in the second half and were among Clara’s best performers, but it was Lisdowney who had the greater spread of scorers and they ran out comfortable 2-15 to 1-10 winners, with the Clara goal a late consolation strike by Rory O Keeffe. Killian Phelan and Conor Booth added their names to the scoresheet and others to catch the eye for Clara were Jason Barcoe and Tom Ryan. Team - Jason Barcoe, Evan Whearty, Mick McDonald, Jack Carrigan. James Casey, Tom Ryan, James Dowling. Ciarán Prendergast 0-2, Brandon Ryan. Conor Booth 0-1, Rory O Keeffe 1-4, 0-1f, Dara Glynn. Bill Cody, David Mulrooney, Nick O Keeffe. Subs used John Brennan, Killian Phelan 0-2, 0-1f, Ruairí Breen.

Juvenile Chairman Brian Fox presents Harry Trehy with the Billy Sullivan Cup for O’Loughlin Gaels u11s

CLUB LOTTO There was no winner of this week’s club lotto (July 19th). Numbers drawn were 5, 9, 14, 28, Bonus 18. Next week’s Big prize will be €10,600 (July 28th). Play now at www.oloughlingaels.com Promotors Draw. 1. Eileen Larkin c/o M Nolan. 2. Dinny & Mags c/o John Joe Cullen. 3. Theresa Burke c/o John Joe Cullen. 4. David Hughes c/o John Joe Cullen. 5. Mary & Hugh Mahon. 6. Jane Dineen c/o E Maher. 7. Pat Mullally c/o John Joe Cullen.8. Alan O’Brien c/o on line.9. John Rowe c/o On line. 10. Debbie Hayes c/o Online. Thank you for your continued support ALL-IRELAND CAMOGIE FINAL Congratulations to our own Laura Murphy, Danielle Quigley and manager Brian Dowling on a brilliant achievement in helping Kilkenny Camogie to another All-Ireland Final on Aug 7th. Laura Murphy’s goal was instrumental in the success over Galway and now our girls are getting ready to play in an All-Ireland Final - sweet!! The Camogie Club will run a bus to the game and a list will be available at the coffee dock with all the details. Well done Laura, Danielle and Brian. BILLY SULLIVAN TOURNAMENT The Billy Sullivan tournament took place with our own u11s taking top honours by winning the cup final over a great St Martins side. O’Loughlins, St Martins, Young Ireland’s, Graigue Ballycallan, Tullaroan and Dicksboro all taking part in what was a feast of hurling at St. John’s Park. Billy would have loved it!! Young Ireland’s took the spoils in the Shield Final with a win over O’Loughlin Gaels Green while Tullaroan and Graigue Ballycallan went home with their plate final wins over Dicksboro. Super hurling all round, well done to manager Brian Murphy and his team for a job well done

Ballycallan - Plate Winners

SYMPATHY There was deep sadness in the community last Sunday, when the news broke of the passing of Adrian Cleere, Tubrid, Woodsgift, Kilkenny. Adrian passed away peacefully at St Luke’s Hospital, Kilkenny, surrounded by his loving family. Deeply regretted by his heartbroken partner Elaine (Lacey), his adored baby son Kieran, his loving parents Frank and Mary, brothers and sisters Cyril, Austin, Eimear, Brenda, Francis, Mary, Clodagh and Noel, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, Elaine’s parents Paddy and Breda Lacey, nieces, nephews, uncles, aunts, relatives and a wide circle of friends. May Adrian Rest in Peace. EMERALDS GAA CLUB Mega Bingo: Every Sunday, 6pm at Urlingford GAA pitch. Gates open at 5pm. Single books and one sheet €10; Double books and two sheets €15. Extra jackpot sheet €3 or two for €5. Please support. EMERALDS URLINGFORD AND GRAINE LOTTO July 18th prize fund was: €8,800. Jackpot: €6,800. Numbers drawn: 5, 13, 14, 22, bonus no 20. No winner and two match 3 winners: Ann Burke, Joe Hayde. Five lucky dips of €20 each: Luke Kelly, Alan Holohan, Hailey Ryan, Cyril Cleere. Promoters prize: G. Burke. Next draw takes place on Monday, July 25th in the Clubrooms. Results next week. MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE LTI Pathway to Employment course QQI Level 4: LTI is recruiting for the new programme in the Centre. If anyone is interested in completing this full-time course, please contact us for an expression of interest form. More details can be found on our website www.millfrcurlingford.com BTEI Healthcare Course QQI Level 5 - Begins September 2022: We are currently taking names for the Healthcare QQI Level 5 programme starting September 2022. Please contact us if you are interested in completing this course. Senior Alert: If you need to apply for a Personal Alarm, please contact Sue

Tullaroan - Plate Winners

Young Ireland’s - Shield Winners

PADDY DOWLING RIP The death occurred last weekend of Paddy Dowling late of Belville Freshford. In his 93rd year he was predeceased by his wife Peggy. A neighbourly and good living gentleman he and his family were widely known and respected in the locality especially among the farming community. He loved the game of cards and was a keen follower of the GAA both with the hurling and camogie. There was a guard of honour from both clubs on the way to the graveyard. Funeral Mass took place in St.Lachtains Church Freshford on Sunday morning last followed by interment in St.Lachtains Cemetery. He is mourned by his five daughters, Sheila, Aileen, Mairead, Evelyn and Paula, his grandchildren, sister, sons in law, nieces nephews and extended family to whom deepest sympathy is extended. HOME FROM USA Home at present on holiday with his Mam Kathleen, all the way from San Francisco is John Doyle, Woodview, Freshford and his daughter Ella. Also home from USA visiting is his sister Teresa and her family SUMMER CAMP The annual summer camp takes place this week at the GAA Grounds from 25th to 29th July with organiser JJ Grace and his team of helpers. The camp was the first camp and is the oldest camp in the village and has been going for a number of years very successfully CEMETARY MASS The annual cemetery mass will take place in Tulla Graveyard on Saturday 6th August at 7.30pm (weather permitting). Otherwise the mass will take place in the Church. Please let people know who wish to attend. GAA St Lachtain’s hosted neighbours Tullaroan in the final of the Johnny Kavanagh memorial cup on Friday evening last. Held in front of a big crowd in Freshford the spectators seen a close game throughout with the home side coming out winners on a score of 4-18 to 1-16. The cup was presented to the Captain John Fitzpatrick by Brenda Kavanagh and the Club express thanks to the Kavanagh family for their continued support of St Lachtain’s St.Lachtains Intermediate hurlers start out their league / championship campaign this coming Sunday evening when they take on O’Loughlins in Jenkinstown at 5.00pm The U15 take on Graigue Ballycallan on this Wednesday at 7.30pm in Freshford while the U19’s face Cloneen on Monday next at 6.30pm in Cloneen. SPLIT THE POT The weekly lucky winner of split the pot draw last week was Aoibheann Bergin, who won €94. The draw takes place each Wednesday. Tickets are just €2 and the winner gets half of the takings. The draw is held each Wednesday and boxes and envelopes can be found in Kavanaghs Bar, Mace, O’Shea’s corner shop, Girls& Guys Hairdressers, Oasis Creche, Freshford Creamery, Freshford Butchers and Prague House. This months proceeds are going to Freshford Community Café. The Committee would ask you to Please support this fund raiser. COFFEE MORNING A coffee morning will be held in “Luas na Gaoithe” Tulla (Eleanor Cantwell’s house) on Saturday next 30th July from 11am to 2pm. This event is being organised by the Parish Council to raise funds to continue with the paintwok in St.Nichola’s Church Tulla. Your support will be greatly appreciated. SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to the Cleere family Tubrid Woodsgift and Woodview Freshford on the death of Adrian late of Tubrid. Funeral Mass took place in Graine Church followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery. PARISH NEWS Mass is held in the Parish Church each Wednesday morning at 9.30am and on Sunday morning at 11am.wiith Mass in Tulla church on Saturday evenings at 7.30pm. Notices The parish newsletter is available on their website every week and also on the website you are free to pay your dues and make donations or any other contributions and you can find out more about it on the website or feel free to contact Jennifer in the Parish Office. Please note community notices for the parish newsletter should be left in or emailed to the Parish Office by 11am on Thursdays. Parish office hours are Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9am to 1pm. Mass Cards Special printed parish cards are available at the Parish Office or from Annette at Tulla Church signed by Monsignor Kennedy. You can contact the Parish office on 056 8832843 or by email – freshfordd@ossory.ie. Contact Mongr Kieron Kennedy SOCCER AWARDS Congratulations to young local boy Jamie Walsh who was named U13 player of the year recently. Jamie is son of Noel and Catherine Walsh, Sart and is an ardent member of Freshford U13 side and also a keen squash player. Congrats also to Freshford Town U 17 boys who won the league recently and all the management involved in the victory.The winners received their medals and award at the Kilkenny & District League awards night last weekend, LOOP CAFE

Work is continuing on the Community Cafe at Buncrussia Street. The premises recently got new windows and front door and has been given a complete revamp with exterior painting (a vibrant green colour). It is due to open in the next month or so and great credit is due to the volunteers who have worked so hard to get the work done. FEILE LACHTAIN 2022 Féile Lachtain continued recently when Pilgrimage Sunday took place at Freshford in aid of Ionad Lachtan Heritage Centre. There was a sponsored walk started from The Green at 1 to Clashacrow Church and, after returning to the village, the walkers then completed the pilgrimage by walking to Ballylarkin Church. They were treated to some refreshments after the walks at The Green. Local artists are invited to submit two pieces of art for an exhibition which will be held at Ionad Lachtain during Arts Week in August. Delivery dates are Tuesday and Wednesday August 2nd and 3th. Pieces must be ready to hang. Ionad Lachtain Church, Arts and Heritage Centre is open every Saturday and Sunday from 11.30 until 4.30. Kevin Buckley’s bust of the late Sr. Patricia is the most recent addition to the museum. Also on display is Kevin’s replica of the Shrine of St. Lachtain’s Arm courtesy of Freshford Community Club and another replica of the shrine created by Pádraig Donnelly. There are gifts for every occasion on sale in the crafts shop. New additions here include souvenir Freshford greeting cards and carrier bags and clocks set in miniature hurleys and sliotars. While these sport the Black and Amber colours, they can be ordered in any county colours. Ned Kennedy’s book “Edmund Fitzpatrick Artist and Illustrator” is on sale at O’ Shea’s Shop and all Kilkenny bookshops. Cost €12. It can be ordered by post from O’Shea’s by adding post and packing. MACRA NA FEIRME Macra na Feirme are looking to establish a new club in the Freshford area. Macra na Feirme is an organisation for young people between the ages of 17 and 35 who are interested in getting involved in sports, travel drama, debating or just want to meet new people and have some fun. To be a member of Macra you must join a Macra club in your area. This will open the door to new fiends and new activities. There are hundreds of clubs across Ireland bursting with activity who always welcome a new face. For more information please contact Training and Development Officer – Michael Wall on 0868359891 or email him at mwall@macra.ie HELP FOR ALL Are you struggling with anxiety or depression or finding life difficult or feeling isolated at this time GROW is there to help you. Their Mental Health support Groups are free and confidential and open to all no referral or booking is needed. For more information on same you can contact Mary on 087 284342 If you can’t cope and need support text HELLO to 50808 SAMARITAN Whatever you’re going through a Samaritan will face it with you – available 24 hours a day 365 days a year – Freephone 1161Alone is available for older people who need support and you can call them on 0818 222024 (8am to 8pm) AMBER KILKENNY WOMENS REFUGE – is available for confidential support relating to domestic violence - call them on 1850 424244 (24/7) or on 056 7771404 or email into@amberwomensrefuge.ie. KILMOGANNY BRIDGE CLUB Kilmoganny Bridge Club Results 6/07/2022: 1 Kitty Meagher & Theresa Walsh. 2 Margaret Dunne & Mary Delaney. Bridge results for 13/7/2022: 1 Jacque Purcell & Philip Brennan 2 Rita Townsend & Jackie Kenneally. Bridge results for 20/7/22: 1 Philip Brennan & Jacque Purcell.2 Gerry Fitzgerald & Emer Wallace. Bridge is every Wednesday night at 7.30pm in St. Eoghans Centre, Kilmoganny. All welcome. LOCAL LOTTO Local Lotto Results: July 18th Winning numbers: 2, 4, 13. No Winner. Winners of Draw for 5 x € 30. C J Delaney (Delaney’s). Darragh Robinson (Jimmy McCormack), John Reid (John Reid),Patsy Reid, (John Reid),Kitty O Neill ( Edward Moran ). Jackpot Next Week July 25th: € 1,150. Venue Dunphy’s Bar Kilmoganny 9pm All Welcome KILKENNY VOLUNTEER CENTRE Kilkenny Volunteer Centre: has the following organisations looking for volunteers Website Design Volunteer: Callan First Responders. Callan First Responders who provide vital a life saving service to the Callan Community would love to hear from any volunteer interested in helping them develop a new website to promote their service. Amber Womens Refuge : Tour de Sportive - Saturday 30th of July. The team at Amber Womens refuge who are one of the charities supported by the event , are providing refreshments at the event and would love to hear from any volunteers who have a couple of hours to spare on the day to help out and keep the cyclists hydrated ! You can channel your inner Mrs Doyle! Kilkenny Bereavement Support: Listening Volunteers. Listening Volunteers are needed for Kilkenny Bereavement Support in Kilkenny who provide one to one support for individuals who are bereaved. Please note that there is a required 30 hours of training as part of this role. Teac Tom are looking for Volunteers to help out at Electric Picnic this year. If camping and music is your thing, while supporting the fantastic work that Teac Tom do this is the role for you. For more information please log onto www.volunteerkilkenny.ie or call 0892584946 KILMOGANNY FESTIVAL Kilmoganny Festival Bank Holiday Weekend July 30th & 31st. Saturday July 30th: 2pm to 4pm: Afternoon Tea & Caroline Boutique with an exhibition by James Creaney in St Eoghans Centre. 7pm: BBQ in Dunphys Pub Sunday July 31st: 9am to 12noon: Full Irish Breakfast in St Eoghan’s Centre. 3.30pm: Skills Coaching with Adrian Mullen for Children aged 6 -11 years followed at 4.30pm for the Brendan Fennelly Tribute Match. All takes place at the Kilmoganny GAA pitch. 7pm to late in Dunphys Pub: BBQ followed by ‘The Feck’n Match’ Comedy Play and a Balloon Bursting Raffle with the night finishing with music by ‘2 to Groove’. Weekend Ticket - €20.00. Saturday Night Only: €10.00. Sunday Night Only: €15.00 Tickets on Sale in Petes or from Alycia 087 6757490 or Lorraine 087 6414147 OUTDOOR BARN DANCE Outdoor Barn Dance in Madge’s Garden Dunnamaggin: A Barn Dance takes place on Saturday August 6th in Madge’s Garden from 7pm to 10pm so get your dancing shoes and cowboy hats on and come on down to Madge’s Garden for some Line Dancing. Ray Cahill, line dancing maestro will be on hand to put us through our paces, a BBQ will be available and Ray’s

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

kilkennyobserver.ie

Community & GAA Notes will be open to quench the thirst. €5 on the gate - €10 to include a Burger and mineral. To make a weekend of it our monthly market will take place the following day Sunday August 7th from 11.30am to 4pm. From 1pm to 3pm Ray will be on hand to give free Children’s Line Dancing Lessons - spot prizes throughout and one especially for best dressed cowboy and cowgirl. Connect with neighbours and friends - BBQ, Real Lemonade from Gwen’s Stall and lots of craft and food stalls. Keep an eye on our facebook page Dunnamaggin Community News or text 087 7565376 to be included in our Whats App group to keep you up to date with what is happening and what we have planned. ROSARY Rosary in Dunnamaggin: The rosary will take place the first Monday of every month during the summer at 8pm at Our Lady’s Grotto Baurscobe, Dunnamaggin. All are welcome. GOWRAN COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL Save the date, the festival will take place on Sunday, 9th July in 2023. ST MARY’S CHURCH GOWRAN The church is open for the summer season from 10:00 – 17:30, Wednesday to Sunday. Entrance to the church is free. Visitors can view the many monuments of national importance on display within the church. GOWRAN PITCH AND PUTT Juvenile Friday evenings take place at 7 pm on Fridays. GOWRAN FESTIVAL OF SPEED The festival is taking place on Sunday, 21st August. Tickets available online, www.gowranpark.ie GOWRAN PARK The next race meeting takes place on Wednesday, 10th August. The first race is at 4.50pm. The complimentary shuttle bus service will leave from Kilkenny City Centre (just above the gates of Kilkenny Castle) one hour before the first race. SPORTS ROUND UP MICHAEL O’LEARY GOWRAN CONTINGENT HELP COUNTY GIRLS REACH ALL IRELAND FINAL Congratulations to The Kilkenny Senior Camogie Girls and Management Team, especially The Young Irelands contingent of Steffi and Tiffany Fitzgerald, Ciara O’Keeffe and Pat O’Neill as Kilkenny defeated Galway 1-13 to 0-12 to reach the All-Ireland Final. The Fitzgerald Sisters Steffi and Tiffany were part of the starting 15 once again with Ciara O’Keeffe among the Substitutes and Pat O’Neill as part of the Management Team. Kilkenny now have an All-Ireland Final to look forward to against Cork on Sunday 7th August. It was a great day for the Juvenile Players of Young Irelands Camogie Club as 55 members travelled up together to Croke Park for a memorable day out. JUNIOR F EASE TO VICTORY AGAINST SUIRSIDERS The Young Irelands Junior F Team eased to a 1-19 to 0-10 win against Mooncoin in the First Round of the Junior Championship. With Player/Manager Thomas Drennan in outstanding form scoring 0-6 from play, Young Irelands led 1-9 to 0-6 at the interval with a goal from David Holland on the stroke of half-time putting them in the driving seat. The Gowran Men were in control right throughout the second-half as they restricted Mooncoin to just four points with the outstanding Martin Carter giving an exhibition at Corner-Back. U19S QUALIFY FOR LEAGUE FINAL There was a great victory for the U-19 Hurlers as they defeated TullogherRosbercon 2-19 to 0-16 in the League Semi-Final to set up a League Final showdown with neighbours Bennettsbridge who defeated GraigueBallycallan 3-16 to 1-21. MINOR HURLING The Minor Hurlers unbeaten record came to an end with a 2-14 to 1-10 defeat against James Stephens.The Gowran lads made a promising start and they built up a useful lead early on, before the Village came storming back as they went on to record a 7-point victory with Young Irelands finishing the match with 14 men. The result means that James Stephens top the League Table with two rounds of matches remaining on 18 points as they jump ahead of Young Irelands on 17 points, with Erins Own Castlecomer and Dicksboro in pursuit. U15 HURLING The Young Irelands U-15 A Hurlers lost out 1-13 to 0-14 against Danesfort, as their rallying efforts in the final quarter came up short despite having drawn level with only a few minutes remaining. The game started at a blistering pace with Danesfort leading 0-3 to 0-2 after just three minutes, but scores began to dry up considerably afterwards with no score accruing until a Danesfort goal arrived in the 15th minute. 1-3 to 0-2. Danesfort maintained that 4-point advantage at half-time (1-6 to 0-5) with Thomas Langton from frees and Aidan Keating adding to Young Irelands account. Danesfort maintained control and by the end of the third quarter they had stretched their lead to 6 points (1-11 to 0-8), but credit to the Gowran Boys for their fightback and tenacity. They slowly fought their way back and with Thomas and Aidan leading the way upfront with further scores, while the excellent Ruairi Phelan at Full-Back, Keelan Barcoe, Kieran Carter and Matthew Murray led the charge onto greater effort.With less than 5 minutes remaining, the sides were level at 1-11 to 0-14, but the Gowran Boys shot 4 wides throughout those closing few minutes as Danesfort closed out the game with two consecutive points to secure victory. Young Irelands have two more matches remaining in the Group stages, before finishing off with a home game against James Stephens Red on Wednesday August 3rd. Meanwhile, the Young Irelands U-15 B Team were unfortunate to lose out by a solitary point, 3-11 to 3-10 to Danesfort in a thrilling contest.The Gowran Boys made a great start and by the end of the opening quarter, they led 2-4 to 0-3 with the goals coming from Joseph Langton and Josef Walsh. However, Danesfort fought back and at half-time they led 2-6 to 2-5. The Young Irelands Boys found it difficult to make headway throughout the third quarter as Danesfort stretched the advantage, 2-10 to 2-7.However, Young Irelands found their groove and three consecutive points in quick succession brought them level in the 49th minute(2-10 each). They missed chances to regain the lead and Danesfort grabbed a goal in the 54th minute to go back in front. 3-10 to 2-10.Young Irelands replied and a goal in the 57th minute restored parity once more, but Danesfort had the final say with the winning point a minute later. The two clubs will meet again in the League Final. CAMOGIE It was a very successful Wednesday Night for Young Irelands Camogie with both the Minor and U-14 Teams winning. The Minor Team were very impressive in winning 5-15 to 2-8 against near

Photo Credit to Willie Dempsey neighbours Blacks and Whites in Skeoughvosteen on Wednesday night to qualify for the League Semi-Final, while the U-14s won 4-8 to 2-4 against Ballyhale Shamrocks to set up a League Final showdown with Carrickshock. The U-14 game with Ballyhale Shamrocks was a much closer game than the corresponding clash with their opponents a few weeks ago.In a low scoring clash, the Gowran girls led 1-4 to 0-1 at half-time, while another goal early in the Second-Half appeared to put them on their way to victory.Eilish Keating and Eimear Brennan added points to keep the scoreboard ticking over, but the Shamrocks girls kept plugging away and with 5 minutes remaining they had narrowed the deficit to just three points. 2-7 to 2-4. However, Young Irelands dug deep displaying great resilience and late goals from a lobbed free by Eimear Brennan and Saidhbh Farrell secured victory. There were excellent displays on show with Lucy Langton, Bronagh O’Neill and Holly Drennan and Eimear Brennan all superb, Saidhbh Farrell, Aimee Byrne and Lucy Coomey working tirelessly, while Eilish Keating constantly posed a potent threat despite often having two or three direct opponents on her. The U-14 girls League Final clash with Carrickshock has been provisionally scheduled for the August Bank Holiday Monday 1st August. SHIELD GLORY FOR U11 Congratulations the Young Irelands U11s on winning the Shield in the O’Loughlin Gaels Tournament on Saturday in John’s Park. Well done boys and coaches on a great triumph. YOUNG IRELANDS ROUNDERS COMPETITION The Young Irelands Rounders Competition continued last week with a full programme of matches and it will continue with the conclusion of the Group games before moving into the knockout stages. CLUB LOTTO Dicksboro GAA Club LOTTO Results July 21st. Nos: 5 7 18 26. Jackpot: €3200 not won Draw Prizes – €50: Ber Long c/o P & J Cody. €25 each Mary Bryan c/o Rita Long €25 each Anthony Cleere c/o online. €25 each Declan O’Farrell c/o online Co op draw ticket Katrina Fitzpatrick c/o B Fitzpatrick . Promotors prize Jimmy McGarry New weeks draw €3350 28th July CLUB RESULTS Senior Hurlers Congratulations to our Senior Hurlers who defeated Mullinavat to win the St Canices CU League Division 1 Title. Well done to all involved. U19 League Semi Final Dicksboro had a good win over Dunnamaggin on a scoreline of 0-23 to 1-11. Minor A The Minor A’s played O’Loughlin Gaels Saturday evening in John’s Park and had a great win. Final Score 6-13 to 3-8 U15 Well done to our 2 teams who had wins over St Patrick’s & Conahy Shamrocks this week. KILKENNY CAMOGIE Huge Congratulations to Kilkenny Camogie and our own girls Aoife Prendergast (Kilkenny Captain) Ciara Phelan, Niamh Phelan & Asha McHardy. A fantastic battle against a very strong Galway team. We are very proud of our own club girls and we wish them and the Kilkenny Team all the best in the All Ireland Final. COMMUNITY GAMES Massive Congrats to our young camogie stars who won the Leinster Community Games. Fantastic achievement girls and well done to all involved. SUMMER CAMP WEEK ONE Week 1 of 2022 Dicksboro GAA & Camogie Club took place this week in perfect weather conditions at sunny Palmerstown. Fun and games for the children all week long. Thanks to Niamh, Aoife & Eddie and our team leaders who helped make the week a huge success. Week 2 of this year’s Summer Camp will take place from Aug 15th to 19th. Looking forward to seeing all our young girls and boys back for another action packed week. PALMERSTOWN CLUBHOUSE Dicksboro Clubhouse Bar is open on Thursdays from 8.30pm and every Thursday going forward. Thursday nights is Lotto Draw and Cards Night. All are welcome out for a social drink, a chat and if there is interest, a beginners

card table. We are offering a particular welcome to our senior citizens members, it’s been a difficult past two years and we would be delighted to see you out to the club for a chat. We have a selection of non-alcoholic beers, barista coffee and all the usuals CALAN GOLF CLUB Results, July 20th , 3 person team event Winners. Margaret Comerford, Teresa Phelans and Ellen O Shea 87 pts Senior Ladies 22nd July. 12Hole S/F 1st Mary D Grace 32 pts. 2nd Jean Grace 31pts. 3rd Geraldine O Sullivan 28pts 4th Mary Kennedy 28pts. 5th Ena Kennedy 28. C/B Following the game the senior Ladies enjoyed a very sociable cup of tea with ceased members who were invited to join the ladies on the invite of Senior Lady Captain Mary Croke . The warm catch up was enjoyed by all present. Results from week 11 Well after 11 weeks of the Tuborg Premier League it’s down to the last week to see who will finish in the top 10 and who will make the top 20 , there are 4 players fighting for the last 3 places in the top 10, Kieran Furlong Michael ( Sully ) O Sullivan Michael Cummins and Tommy Dalton, have only 5 points separating them, from 11 to 20 there are 5 players fighting for the last 2 places, Kevin Leahy Billy Murphy Tommy Cleere Tom Kent and Liam Murphy, there are only 6 points between the lot of them , so it looks like being a great night next week. In group 1 Michael Meaney and Tom Kent came through playing great darts all night , the game between them was a fantastic game, Michael got off to a good start winning the first 2 legs but Tom pulled it back by winning the next leg with a brilliant 14 darter, that was as far as Tom got in the game as Michael threw great darts to win the next leg and the game. In group 2 PJ Byrne topped it with Tommy Dalton and Robbie Van Geisko also coming off the board, PJ is playing brilliant darts in the league and so is Tommy Dalton, but a mention of Robbie Van Geisko, he’s playing as good as he ever has, he made it into the last 16 for the first time ever beating some good players in his group. In group 3 Mick Dwyer Jnr and David Murphy gave us a display of darts in the game they played against each other, Mick Jnr played unbelievable darts in the first 2 legs hitting 2 14 darters back to back, then David took over the game by winning the next 2 legs to bring it to the final game, Mick Jnr got back into the game by having a 17 dart leg to win the game, a fantastic game to watch, Mickey O Keeffe also threw great darts in the group having a fantastic 13 dart leg in the game he played against Kieran Furlong. On to the next group, group 4 , Trevor Vallely came out on top of the group with Michael Cummins and Kieran Lennon also making it out of it , Trevor played brilliant darts in the game he played against Michael Cummins, he had a 14 a 17 darter and he hit a 15 dart game to win the game , Michael won the 3rd leg in 16 darts in the leg he won, another great game to watch, Kieran Lennon is another player who is in great form at the moment, he is playing as well as anyone else is playing so he is a with a shout to to go on and win the Grand Final which is on in 2 weeks time. On to the last group, Sully and Jim Shanahan played very good darts in this group and so did Liz Byrne, Liz is playing brilliant darts, she took out another great finish, hitting a great 15 dart leg taking out 115 , Jim Shanahan played superb darts taking out 136 and 128 in his group games, Sully is playing some of the best darts that he had played in a while, he went through the group with out losing a game, another one to watch out for. On to the last 16 games, Michael Meaney and Mickey O Keeffe got us underway with a very good game, Mickey just couldn’t get his game going in this one, he tried so hard but couldn’t play like he can and Michael took full advantage of the game he won 3 legs to 0 . The second game was between husband and wife PJ Byrne and Liz, PJ took no mercy on Liz and beat her 3 legs to 0 . Mick Dwyer Jnr and Robbie Van Geisko played the next game, Robbie made the last 16 for the first time after playing great darts in the group games, Mick Jnr on the other hand is well used to playing in the latter stages of any tournament that he enter’s, he went on to win the game by 3 legs to 0 . The 4th last 16 game was between Trevor Vallely and Liam Murphy, Liam is playing very well but he came up against Trevor who is playing tremendous darts at the moment, try as much as he could he couldn’t get near Trevor who went on to win the game by 3 legs to 0 . Next we had Tom Kent versus Sully, both players are playing great darts in the league, Tom took the first 2 legs but Sully not one for giving up , came back to win the next 2 legs to make it 2 legs each, Tom then hit 4 big scores in a row to leave himself down near the double and he didn’t give Sully a shot at a double,

so Tom won the game with a tidy 17 darter in the last leg. Richie O Hanlon and Jim Shanahan played in the next game, Ritchie played great darts in this game, the Tipperary man took the first 2 legs throwing brilliant darts, taking out a 122 and a 144 with ease, now Jim Shanahan played excellent darts to bring it back to 2 legs each, then he went on to win the last leg in a 14 darter, a brilliant display of darts by Jim. The penultimate game was between Tommy Dalton and Lenny, Lenny got the game underway with a good leg, he had an 18 darter to win the first leg, then Tommy hit back by winning the next 2 legs to go 2 legs to 1 up, Lenny had to dig to win the next leg and make it 2 legs all , in the final leg Lenny took off hitting 140 140 and 121 to leave 100 after 9 darts, Tommy hit big scores as well , he hit a 100 95 and a 135 to get down near Lenny, by Lenny gave him no shot at a double and well on to win the game. Down to the last game of the top 16 , Michael Cummins and David Murphy locked horns in this game, Michael Cummins is a Landscape Gardener from Passage East in Waterford, and he cleaned up in the first 2 legs, David Murphy is not top of the league for nothing, he fought back by winning the next 2 legs to bring it all even, as much as Michael tried he couldn’t get David to buckle, David won the leg playing super darts taking out a 116 to clinch the win. On to the Q / Final’s, Michael Meaney and PJ Byrne played the first game and what a game it was, Michael started off playing some great stuff to 1 - 0 up , then he made it 2 legs to 0 with a 15 dart leg taking out a 126 , PJ came back to win the next leg and then the 4th leg to draw even with Michael, then the last leg was brilliant, the 2 players threw fantastic darts to get down near the double but Michael got the first shot at it and didn’t make any mistakes by hitting double 8 to win the game . The next Q / Final game was between Mick Dwyer Jnr and Trevor Vallely, Mick Jnr is in brilliant from at the moment and so is Trevor, Trevor took hold of the game from the start by winning the first 2 legs, Mick Jnr then won the next leg to make it 2 legs to 1 by hitting a 14 dart leg, Trevor went on to show us what he can do, throwing unbelievable darts he had a 13 dart leg to win the game, Mick Jnr played very well in the leg, he was waiting on 126 when Trevor hit the double. The next Q / Final saw Tom Kent and Jim Shanahan play , Jim Shanahan was making his first appearance at this stage of the event, and you wouldn’t think it he played brilliant darts against Tom, another player who is in great form at the moment, Jim got off to the start he needed he had a great first leg by hitting a 14 darter to take the first leg, Tom then won the next 2 legs to go 2 legs to 1 up, Jim playing some of the best darts he has thrown in the league left a double after 15 darts but Tom had a better leg and he took out a fantastic 116 to win the leg and the game. The last Q/ Final was between Lenny and David Murphy, David got the game going with a good leg, Lenny then got in front by winning the next 2 legs both legs were taken out in 17 darts, David came back again and won the next leg and then he went on to win the last leg and the game by hitting an unbelievable 12 darter, a fantastic leg to win any game, fair play to Lenny who was playing at the top level of his game. Michael Meaney and Trevor Vallely came together for the first S / Final, it promised to be a great game,but Michael from the start tore into Trevor and gave him no shots at a double in any of the 3 legs, he was outstanding in the game and if he keeps playing the way that he is at the moment then it will take someone who is at the top of their game to beat him. The second S / Final was between Tom Kent and David Murphy, David started the very same way that he did in a lot of the games he played all night, he lost the first leg to Tom, Tom who’s playing great darts in the league at the moment took the first leg off David hitting a 17 darter, David then came to life and went on to win the next 3 legs in brilliant style, having two legs of 14 and 15 darts and then winning the final leg in 17 darts to get the win, again hard to Tom who is another player to keep an eye on. On to the Final, Michael Meaney and David Murphy were in the Final for the second week in a row , Michael kept David’s run of not winning the first leg in most of his games going, he was playing so well that we thought he was going to win 3 / 0 , David like anyone who has the ability to play at the top of their game came back to win the next leg, Michael then held his throw to go 2 legs to 1 up, David Murphy then showed us why he is one of the best darts players in Ireland by winning the next leg, well down to the last leg of the 11th night of the Tuborg Premier League , Michael Meaney and David Murphy gave us a leg to remember by having one of the best legs of the League, they both started off with score’s of 100 100 and 95 , then Michael hit a 140 and David hit a 85 Michael then left double 20 , with a 121 left David Murphy nearly took it out, he hit single 20 treble 17 to give himself a shot at the Bull but he was so unfortunate to hit the 25 segment of the Bull and miss it by the smallest of margins, Michael Meaney doesn’t let slip any opportunities that come his way and he took out double 20 with the second dart to go on and win the final for the 4th time. So it’s all down to next Friday night to see what the final placing is going to be

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Hurling matters

Sport BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

There had been murmurings about a possible departure following Kilkenny’s two-point defeat in this year’s All-Ireland Senior Hurling Final; and the official news broke last Saturday afternoon via a statement from the Kilkenny County Board. “Brian Cody has informed Kilkenny County Board that he is stepping down as Kilkenny Senior Hurling Team Manager. Appointed in November 1998 Brian has led the Kilkenny team to unprecedented provincial and national success and is regarded as the greatest manager in the history of hurling. As manager, his teams have won eleven All Ireland Hurling Championships (including a recordequaling four in a row between 2006 and 2009), eighteen Leinster Championships, ten National Hurling League titles, seven Walsh Cup titles and an Oireachtas Tournament title. In achieving all of this success Brian has created an unbreakable spirit among his players and teams which has come to define Kilkenny hurling”. “On behalf of Kilkenny people everywhere, Kilkenny County Board extends sincere gratitude to Brian for his lifetime of contribution to the county and the commitment and passion he brought as a player and as manager, working tirelessly with a single aim, to do what was best for Kilkenny hurling. The Board would also like to acknowledge the bond Brian helped create between Team Management, Players, County Board, Clubs and Supporters Clubs as all worked seamlessly together in preparing our teams while organising and promoting our games”. “We are aware of the huge debt we owe Brian for the wonderful successes and occasions we have enjoyed as we watched the teams he created play and succeed. Wherever and whenever our games are discussed in the future, Brian Cody’s achievements will be the benchmark managers will be measured by”. We wish Brian all the best in the future. Brian, Go raibh míle maith agat, guimis gach rath ort as seo amach. The process of appointing a new Kilkenny Senior Hurling team manager will now begin. The County Board will not be issuing any further statement. Having been appointed to the top job in November 1998, it would have been unthinkable back then that on the 23rd July 2022 we would only then be discussing Brian Cody’s departure as Kilkenny senior hurling manager. His longevity, his ability to create and mold team after team, and that’s all before you get to his success. There is no doubt that the James Stephens clubman revolutionised the game of hurling. The golden years that followed Cody’s appointment may never be matched. Limerick are a great side, have won four out of the last five All-Ireland’s, but will

Cody calls time on Cats reign End of an era as the greatest bainisteoir ever steps aside Photo by INPHO

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

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Hurling matters John Kiely secure 11 Liam McCarthy’s before he departs the Treaty? It’s hard to fathom anyone ever outlasting Cody and surpassing his 24 seasons in inter-county management. Over those years, the game has changed, evolved and become much more demanding of the manager. Not only the game has evolved, but players too. The whole S&C side of things, the nutrition, the sports psychology. The job that Cody leaves is much changed than the one he entered. Yes, the Liam McCarthy is the bread and butter on Noreside, but under Cody, those on black and amber also achieved EIGHTEEN Leinster titles and TEN National League crowns. Brian Cody has always believed in the collective, the panel, never the XV or a handful of players. Under his stewardship, many players have flourished, some became legends of the game, others rightly awarded All-Stars. The first player to be recognised and awarded the much-coveted All-Star award was defender Peter Barry, back in 1999. The most recent recipient being goalkeeper Eoin Murphy who picked one up last season. In total there have been over 100 All-Stars awarded while Cody steered the Cats ship. Given his teams performances this year, I have no doubt there could well be 2-3 additions to this role of honour. All-Star’s lead on nicely to Hurler of the Year awards and Kilkenny had some eight different players given the ultimate individual crown since 1999. Legends of the game – DJ Carey, Henry Shefflin (X3), JJ Delaney, Eoin Larkin, Tommy Walsh, Michael Fennelly, Richie Hogan and TJ Reid. That’s more than a half decent ‘fantasy

Brian Cody -genius, unrivalled, legendary

hurling team’. To put Cody’s managerial stint with the Cats in context, DJ Carey was playing for him in the defeat to the Rebel’s in 1999, the bainisteoir’s first final as manager, while just a couple of weeks ago DJ’s son Mikey was in the starting XV that ran the might Limerick so close. Generational. You wouldn’t hear the man himself talk much about his own playing career in the black and amber. The Village clubman won All-Ireland titles at Minor, U21 and Senior level. As a full-back, he tangled with the likes of the great Jimmy Barry Murphy. Perhaps I played that down – Brian Cody won 4 All-Ireland’s as a player, and captained his county to the Liam McCarthy in 1982. In an interview for RTE’s sporting documentary series ‘The Game’ Cody said that” I was a much better player than I’m a manager,” I have a feeling that this comment was typical of the man. Cody’s hurling education began at St Kieran’s College where he went on to captain the school to provincial and All-Ireland glory. More success would follow while attending St Patrick’s Training College in Drumcondra. Breaking through into the senior ranks of his beloved James Stephens club, Cody was part of a successful era for the Village, as they won an All-Ireland club title in 1982. Back-to-back Liam McCarthy’s would follow in ‘82 & ‘83. Some player alright. Under his guidance, Kilkenny contested SEVENTEEN AllIreland’s, winning ELEVEN of these. This incredible period of success included a 4-in-a-row between 2006 & 2009. In terms of numbers, Cody’s record at UPMC Nowlan Park is impressive. 81% win rate at the home of hurling. When we shift

to Nowlan Park North, or Croke Park as it’s known, the rate is a mighty impressive 74%. Of the 282 league & Championship contested under BC, the numbers are the envy of many. Championship delivered 73% win rate, while the league wasn’t far behind on 70%. Players. It will come as no surprise that JJ Delaney is the record appearance maker under Mr. Cody. TJ Reid probably stands the best chance of catching the Fenians star, he is only 12 appearances behind JJ. On the club front, Shamrocks Ballyhale players have racked up the most outings under the legendary manager, with TJ contributing 132 appearances for the county champions. Cody’s own club, The Village have provided seventeen different players to Cody’s cause over the years, with Jackie Tyrell the main man on 144 run-outs. The player with the highest win percentage under Cody? Michael Fennelly who was on the winning side 60 times out of 70 appearances. Billy Ryan and Mossy Keoghan may have been the green flag raisers in this year’s All-Ireland final, but these two attackers have been called ashore more times than any other players during the Cody years. A teacher by trade, he certainly educated those that he came into contact with, and as the tributes flooded the press and social media since the announcement at 1:54pm last Saturday, it is clear that the quiet man has left a lasting impact on many across the hurling and sporting world. As the much-followed B-Cody account on Twitter said.... ” Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened” Big shoes to fill? A drought to end? Only the best need apply.

THE VILLAGE SCHOOLMASTER By Oliver Goldsmith

Beside yon straggling fence that skirts the way With blossom’d furze unprofitably gay, There, in his noisy mansion, skill’d to rule, The village master taught his little school; A man severe he was, and stern to view, I knew him well, and every truant knew; Well had the boding tremblers learn’d to trace The days disasters in his morning face; Full well they laugh’d with counterfeited glee, At all his jokes, for many a joke had he: Full well the busy whisper, circling round, Convey’d the dismal tidings when he frown’d: Yet he was kind; or if severe in aught, The love he bore to learning was in fault. The village all declar’d how much he knew; ‘Twas certain he could write, and cipher too: Lands he could measure, terms and tides presage, And e’en the story ran that he could gauge. In arguing too, the parson own’d his skill, For e’en though vanquish’d he could argue still; While words of learned length and thund’ring sound Amazed the gazing rustics rang’d around; And still they gaz’d and still the wonder grew, That one small head could carry all he knew. But past is all his fame. The very spot Where many a time he triumph’d is forgot. Brian Cody Dreamtime studio, SOS, Kilkenny

• Thanks to Ger Cody for this!

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

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Camogie

Sport BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Glen Dimplex All Ireland Camogie Senior Championship Semi-Final Croke Park, Dublin Kilkenny 1-13 Galway 0-12 There will be new champions of the senior camogie championship following Kilkenny’s four-point victory over current holders Galway at Croke Park last Saturday. These two giants of the game have produced some wonderful games over the last few seasons, and this encounter certainly lived up to its billing. The only disappointment was that just under 3,500 spectators witnessed the latest installment between these two great rivals, but those that did were treated to a game that had plenty of drama, excitement and quality. Brian Dowling’s team managed to shut-out the opposition for the last 16 minutes, which proved crucial as they dethroned the O’Duffy Cup holders. That stat, coupled with a stunning strike for a major from defender Laura Murphy, and another excellent net-minding performance from Piltown’s Aoife Norris helped Kilkenny get over the line against a side that they really seem to enjoying hurling against. There was one change to starting XV for the Stripey women, with Niamh Deely coming in for Miriam Bambrick. The first score of the day came from Mullinavat’s Julieann Malone in the 5th minute, after some good work by Niamh Deely saw the rejuvenated Malone gather possession out on the right, before splitting the posts from some 40 metres, for what would be the first of four vital scores for the Noresiders. Aoife Norris then prevented Sarsfields Siobhan McGrath from raising a green flag with a fine block. The game was clearly going to be keenly contested, but it took almost 6 minutes for Cork whistler Andy Larkin to award the first free of the day. Where possible, Larking was certainly prepared to let the game flow. Denise Gaule struck her side’s second score of the day before Clarinbridge’s Carrie Dolan registered the first of seven successful placed ball efforts on the day. St Martins Katie Nolan was looking very lively, and she pointed having taken a nice pass from Michaela Kenneally. A Carrie Dolan free and a lovely score from Catherine Finnerty levelled matters with some 13 minutes of pulsating action played. One of the games key battles was Miriam Walsh’s tussle with Galway captain Sarah Dervan. This was clear from the first time a ball went into that area. The Tullaroan attacker, who has been in the form of her life this season, beat the full-back to the ball before playing a lovely crossfield pass to Mary O’Connell who looked certain to goal, but her effort went well over the westerner’s crossbar. Dolan then showed some lovely stick work before rifling over from play over on the Cusack Stand side, before there was a stoppage in play due to referee Andy Larkin having an issue with a contact lens, something that Galway manager Cathal Murray may have led to some decisions being made that were not to the Tribeswomen’s liking! Julieann Malone then escaped the clutches of centre-back Roisin Black before powering forward and pointing. Dolan popped over another free before the busy Aoife Donohoe was picked out by Niamh Hanniffy and duly pointed. Piltown stopper Norris then did well to deny the rampaging Hanniffy another goal

Norris ensure Cats Croker return Julieann Malone

Photos by INPHO

Galway dethroned in semi victory

Photos by INPHO

Brian Dowling planning for Cork

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

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Camogie

Aoife Norris make a save

chance. Finnerty was then fouled by The Village’s Michelle Teehan and Dolan did the usual. Galway 7-6 up in the 26th minute. Then one of the games massive moments. Oranmore’s Niamh Hanniffy collected the ball and played a nice pass to the on-running Siobhan McGrath, who was then upended by Teehan. Penalty! Referee Larkin also showed a yellow card to the defender. Galway sent keeper Sarah Healy up to take the kick, but Aoife Norris was more than equal to the St Thomas’s woman’s effort. The next few minutes witnessed some big physical hits with no quarter being given be either side. This period of physicality ended with Galway No.14 Ailish O’Reilly taking a big challenge before pointing to put the reigning champions 2 points to the good just before the short whistle sounded. Half-time at Croker, Kilkenny 0-6, Galway 0-8. Like in the opening period, it would be those in black and amber that would strike first. Galway captain, Dervan guilty of a high challenge on Katie Nolan. Windgap’s Gaule slotted the free over, to bring it back to a 1-point game. Netminder Aoife Norris then prevented a fourth goal-scoring opportunity for the Tribeswomen, when she bravely managed to block Niamh Hanniffy’s goalbound effort out for a ‘45. Carrie Dolan managed to slot it over to restore the 2-point lead. The second big moment of the game was on hand. Kilkenny picked up possession out under the Cusack Stand. The industrious Katie Power made a diagonal run with the

Happy Cat! Katie Power final bound

ball, before sending a precision pass to wingback Laura Murphy who had roamed forward. The O’Loughlin’s woman gathered the sliotar before turning and sending a fierce low shot beyond the sprawling Healy in the the Galway goal! The Cats now led by one, 1-7 to 0-9, 37 minutes of semi-final action played. Dowling’s ladies also struck the next two scores via Katie Nolan (free) and another classy point from Mullinavat’s Malone. Her return from down under has added much to this Kilkenny panel. Denise Gaule who was playing much deeper than her number suggested then was booked for hauling down Aoife Donohue, Carrie Dolan got a muchneeded score for Cathal Murray’s team. The then hit 2-in-a-row via Aoife Donohue and another placed ball for Dolan. The sides were level again with ten minutes of normal time remaining. Laura Murphy then found herself in space having vacated her defensive position and manger to pop over a cracking point from distance. Nolan then rifled over a fee after Miriam Walsh was halted in her tracks. Katie Power then sent a nice pass to Julieann Malone who notched her 4th point of the game to leave the Noresiders a goal to the good. Galway needed a major response, but the Kilkenny defence stood firm, tackling, hooking, blocking and putting their bodies on the lines. Siobhan McGrath sent on a long ball towards the danger zone, but it struck the post and the Cats worked the sliotar up the park quickly. Katie Nolan passed to substitute Sophie Dwyer, who split the posts, much to the delight of the travelling Kilkenny faithful. The game was deep into injury time, some six minutes, when Andy Larkin blew for full-time. The Cats had done it, another All-Ireland Final beckons for this team. Final Score at Croker, Kilkenny 1-13, Galway 0-12. Scorers for Kilkenny: J Malone 0-4; L Murphy 1-1; K Nolan 0-3(2fs); M O’Connell, D Gaule (fs) 0-2 each; S Dwyer 0-1 Scorers for Galway: C Dolan 0-8(6fs, 1 45); A Donohue 0-2; A O’Reilly, C Finnerty 0-1 each KILKENNY: A Norris, T Fitzgerald, M Teehan, Claire Phelan, N Deely, G Walsh, S Fitzgerald, L Murphy, K Power, J Malone, D Gaule, M Kenneally, M O’Connell, M Walsh, K Nolan. Subs: S Dwyer for Kenneally (49); M Bambrick for Murphy (59), A Prendergast for Power (60), Ciara Phelan for T Fitzgerald (60+5). GALWAY: Sarah Healy, R Hanniffy, S Dervan, H Cooney, E Helebert, Shauna Healy, R Black, A Donohue, Ni Kilkenny, N Hanniffy, A O’Reilly, C Dolan, C Finnerty, S McGrath, S Rabbitte. Subs: D Higgins for Rabbitte (37); Á Keane for O’Reilly (54); S Gardiner for Helebert (58); S Spellman for McGrath (60). REFEREE: Andy Larkin (Cork).

>> SHERRY SAYS...

Laura Murphy

What a battle this was! When these two meet, there is normally very little between them, and again this proved to be the case. I’ll disagree with RTE, for me Aoife Norris’s 4 wonderful saves, to prevetn certain goals fro Galway was the overall difference between the sides. Believe me, that doesn’t take away from the excellent Michelle Teehan, the classy Claire Phelan or the leader that Grace Walsh clearly is. Brian Dowling’s panel gave everything, the sheer spirit, grit and determination to prevent the dangerous Galway attack from functioning to its potential. The hooking, blocking, tackling, hounding, all necessary and trademark Kilkenny skills. Miriam Walsh may not have scored, but her constant running created space for others to prosper. The Tullaroan woman caused Galway captain Sarah Dervan many problems during the game. Denise Gaule had a mixed day at the office. She covered every blade of grass, defended like her life depended upon it but her normally accurate radar was a little off when chances arose. Julieann Malone’s 0-4 was very impressive. Like I say, she has added much to this panel since her return from Oz. Katie Nolan too was lively throughout and slotted over a couple of frees when on duty. Katie Power, never stopped, but was much more effective when deployed further forward. Her vision to pick out Laura Murphy for the only goal of the game was classy. Defensively we shut down the dangerous Sabina Rabbitte, the rampaging Niamh Kilkenny and Siobhan McGrath. We stopped those in maroon socring from the 50th minute. That takes some doing. So it’s the Rebel’s in the decider on August 7th. We certainly owe them one from last years semi-final defeat, not to mention the 2018 final! Like matches with Galway, there doesn’t tend to be much between Cork and Kilkenny when they meet. As long as we are on the right side at the final whistle.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

Motors Classifieds

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

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

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Classifieds Motors

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

Planning Memoriams/Miracle notices prayers

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL We, Donal Shore and Kiava Maher, hereby apply for Full Planning Permission to erect a new single storey private house, detached garage, to provide new treatment plant system and percolation area, to form a new entrance to the public road together with all associated site works on lands at Croghtenclogh, Coon, Co Kilkenny. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Michael Condon MRIAI, Architect, MRC Design Ltd – 1 City Wall, James Street, Kilkenny Ph. 087 2032869

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL I, Micheal Moloney wish to apply to the above authority on behalf of Brian McCann and Martina Higgins for full planning permission to construct a 2 Storey dwelling, garage, entrance, wastewater system, borehole, soakpits and all other associated site works at Baunoge, Callan, Co. Kilkenny. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

TO PUBLISH PLANNING APPLICATION, CONTACT US: Call to our office at: Unit 7 Friary Street Telephone: 056 7771463/086 2395370 Email: sales@kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

ANASTATIA CODY 26th ANNIVERSARY

JOAN CODY 13th ANNIVERSARY

In loving memory of the late Joan who died on 11 th July 2009 and her Mother Anastatia who died on 29 th July 1996, late of Drakelands Middle, Co. Kilkenny After the clouds, The sunshine After the winter, The spring After the shower, The rainbow For life is a changeable thing After the night, The morning Bidding all darkness cease After life’s cares and sorrows The comfort and sweetness of peace Always remembered by your loving family Masses will be offered.

The Miracle Prayer

Dear heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours. This time I ask you this special one (mention favour). Take it dear heart of Jesus and place it within your heart where your father sees it. Then in his merciful eyes it will become your own favour not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never been known to fail. Must promise publication of prayer. A.H.

St. Anthony Prayer,

O Holy St. Anthony gentlest of Saints, your love for God and charity for His creatures, made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers. Encouraged by this thought, I implore you to obtain for me (request). O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms. The gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. Amen M.R.

The Miracle Prayer

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 29 July 2022