Kilkenny Observer 30th August 2024

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Kamala Triumphs Harris and Walz show they can do better  Paul Hopkins Page 8

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Goodnight Sister Remembering Nell, but how far have we come?  Marianne Heron Page 12

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 30th August 2024

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Budget favours students

Rise in grants and in the eligibility for State support

A further €500 cut in college fees, while more families will get third-level grants under Budget proposals to appease voters ahead of the General Election.

Higher Education Minister Patrick O’Donovan has received a range of options for reducing the cost of college for students and their families.

The include a permanent reduction of €500 to the student contribution fees, which currently are €3,000 a year.

A Government source said: “It is our intention to reduce the contribution fees for third level. It has been reducing by €500 a year in recent years via a series of ‘once-off’ measures, but we want to make those reductions part of the

base and formalise them at this lower level in a more sustainable way.”

The minister is also considering significantly increasing student grants and expand the eligibility criteria to let more households avail of the State support.

The highest grant, of €4,292, could increase by more than €500 under plans drafted by

Department of Higher Education officials.

A 10% increase in the household income threshold for grants is also likely, which will mean families with a combined income of €110,000 will be able to apply for supports.

However, Minister O’Donovan is preparing for a Budget showdown with Fianna Fáil over proposals

that student accommodation should receive funding under the Housing for All plan.

He believes his department should have access to some of the multi-billion-euro funding, given housing students is an important element of his portfolio.

“Apart from the windfall €100m given earlier this year, student accommodation is

Network Ireland has received the highest ever number of applications for its renowned Businesswoman of the Year Awards, which recognise the achievements of accomplished and committed female professionals. The women’s business group received almost 460 applications from members across its branches, highlighting female-led entrepreneurship figures around the country.

The winners from 17 local branch finals will go forward to a national level round where a panel of business experts select the winners in the eight categories. The successful businesswomen will be announced at a gala awards ceremony at Lyrath Estate Hotel, Kilkenny, on Friday, September 27.

Our picture shows Ciara Ryan, AIB; Linda Codoul, Network Ireland President; Anna-Marie Turley, Enterprise Ireland at the Lyrath Estate Hotel, Kilkenny, at the launch of the awards.

PHOTO: Patrick Browne

It IS Jesus’ shroud, say scientists

The Best Comment & Opinion in Kilkenny

A few decades after the shroud’s appearance, Bishop Pierre d’Arcis of ­Troyes wrote a memorandum in 1389 denouncing it as a forgery.

But the cloth, housed in the Cathedral of St John the Baptist in Turin, continued to be studied and scrutinised. A controversial study carried out in the 1980s dated the shroud to between 1260AD and 1390AD, branding it as a medieval forgery.

See also Page 6

More gardaí are now leaving the force

Business women in high numbers at Lyrath Estate

Italian scientists say they have found evidence the Shroud of Turin may indeed have been Jesus Christ’s burial cloth, countering previous research dating the artefact to medieval times.

The world’s most studied archaeological artefact has been subject to scrutiny since it first emerged in the 1350s, bearing the faint image of a man that some believe to be an imprint of Jesus.

woefully underfunded and the minister wants a dedicated allocation to keep up with demand,” the Government source said.

“Students make up 5% of the population but get zero per cent of the Housing for All budget, and that percentage gap has to be addressed.”

The new study, using X-rays to inspect linen threads from the shroud, traces its origin back to the time of ­Jesus.

Though the study, published in the journal Heritage, falls short of concluding whether the shroud was actually ­Jesus’s burial cloth, it dates its origin to 2,000 years ago.

“The experimental results are compatible with the hypothesis that the Turin Shroud is a 2,000-year-old

relic,” the study says, claiming previous analysis might have been flawed due to contamination.

Researchers say cellulose contained in the shroud’s fibres has aged slowly since the 14th century due to lower room temperatures in Europe.

This means that most of the cloth’s natural ageing, about 90%, happened before the 1300s.

There is a catch, however.

Scientists said the shroud could conclusively be said to be 20 centuries old only if there was further evidence showing the relic was kept safely at an average temperature of about 22C and relative humidity of around 55% for 13 centuries before it emerged.

The latest research could still help historians test their hypothesis about the shroud’s origins.

Record numbers of gardaí left the force last year, according to figures released by the Department of Justice.

In 2023, there were 488 gardaí who either retired or resigned, outstripping by 100 the 388 newly attested gardaí brought into the force last year.

The figures, released following parliamentary questions by Peadar Tóibín, the Meath TD and Aontú leader, also show that 175 gardaí last year availed of a scheme that allows them to buy back six months of training so it can be used in their pension calculations.

Although the Department of Justice said there was no option for gardaí to buy back service for early retirement, the scheme allowing the buy back of training time was seen as a way for a cohort of gardaí to retire on increased pensions six months ahead of schedule.

There are currently 14,100 gardaí — up from 13,998 at the end of 2023. This is still below the 14,491 officers at the end of 2020 and the 14,547 that served in 2009.

The top tunes for sports fans Olé Olé remains the top tune for Irish sports fans with 66% citing it as the go-to song when cheering on their favourite team or athlete, according to new research released

by Nestlé Cereals Ireland, ‘official breakfast partner to Paralympics Ireland.

PAUL HOPKINS

MARIANNE HERON

JOHN ELLIS

GERRY MORAN

Telling it like it is.

And with no holds barred

A straight shooter.

Considerate and wise words

Great advice.

Your money in mind

Quirky take on bright side of life

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 30th August 2024

News The PAL (Public Access Law) team from Loreto Secondary School have made it to the top four in the country and have been invited to represent Ireland at the Empire Mock Trial World Championship in Chicago this November!

They will be competing against teams from the US, Canada, Great Britain, Australia, and South Korea.

Kate Sullivan said: “This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for the students to build their skills in advocacy, communication, leadership and critical thinking.

“But here’s the thing: it’s an amazing opportunity, but it’s also expensive.

We want to make sure every member of our team can travel to Chicago, so we’re raising funds to make it happen.

“We’re hosting an exciting and empowering fundraiser, the Women’s Only Wellness (WOW) event, on Thursday, September 5 at 7:30 PM at the fabulous Set Theatre, Kilkenny. This event is open to women of all ages, and it’s going to be a night you won’t want to miss!”

A lineup of expert speakers, including: • Dr Conrado Cusniader, Gynaecologist, sharing insights on women’s reproductive health.

• Dr Ann Marie Eustace Ryan, who will discuss the importance of gut health.

• Dr David Brennan, talking about skin cancer awareness and prevention.

Loreto make it to world law championships • Carol Kelly, Advanced Nurse Practitioner, discussing contraception options.

• Bernie Leamy, Women’s Health Physiotherapist, with tips on staying active and

healthy.

• Linda Murray, Nutritional Therapist, will discuss nutrition & lifestyle habits.

• Juliette O Connell from Breast Cancer Ireland,

raising awareness about breast cancer.

The event will be hosted

by Helen Carroll, a familiar face from radio and TV. Kate Sullivan said: “This

is more than just an event— it’s a chance to learn, connect, and support a fantastic cause. The funds raised will help us get to Chicago and represent our

school and our country on the world stage.

“So, grab your tickets, invite your friends, and join us for a night of empowerment, wellness, and fun.”

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Budget move on inheritance tax Taoiseach Simon Harris has proposed the introduction of new inheritance tax breaks for farmers and families in the upcoming Budget and said he was taking on board farmers’ anxiety regarding passing their farms on to the next generation.

“I’m very clear when it comes to inheritance tax —

we need to act on this and I’d like to see action in the Budget,” he said.

“I certainly will be ensuring there is action on my party’s manifesto in relation to this because inheritance tax is hitting people in terms of families trying to pass on a home and also hitting farmers disproportionately

as well,” deputy Martin said.

The Taoiseach has said that succession is one of the biggest issues farmers raise with him and he has tasked Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue with looking at a new retirement scheme for farmers.

“In fairness to Minister McConalogue, he has set up

a taskforce and a commission to look at issues with generational planning and succession,” he said.

“It’s certainly not an ageist comment at all, but when I meet many farmers around the country, they tell me that they have anxiety and worry about how they successfully pass the farm on to the next

generation,” Mr Martin said.

“They tell me that their sons and daughters have so many opportunities out there that it’s important that farming is maintained as an attractive career option for them. We have in the past had retirement incentive schemes in the 90s that worked quite well and what

We will stand by farmers, vows MEP Funchion Sinn Féin MEP for Ireland South Kathleen Funchion MEP has said that Sinn Féin would continue to stand up for Irish farmers in the European Parliament, in the Dáil and in every local council.

Ms Funchion was speaking at the annual Iverk Agricultural Show in Piltown, South Kilkenny on Saturday, Augus 24.

“The Irish farming and fishing communities have been badly let down by successive Irish Governments and by the European Union.

“Irish farmers need Sinn Féin and our elected representatives to stand up for them and challenge every decisionmaking body that we can – in Brussels and in the Dáil,” she said.

“Someone in farmers’ corners is never more important than now. During my recent election campaign, I heard from smaller, family farmers across Ireland South who have had to contend with rising costs, the unreliability of schemes, changes to CAP which have reduced smaller farmers payments, and price volatility leading many to question the viability of their family farm.

“Today I got the opportunity to talk directly, again with those most impacted by the legislation that emanates from Europe. People spoke to me about their love of farming, their commitment to the communities

they live in and crucially their innate understanding of the land they are custodians of,” she said.

“Sinn Fein have worked hard to develop solutions with the farming community, because farmers have the answers to some of these issues. They are the most invested in ensuring the sector stays viable and provides their families with a future on the land. I intend to continue this work in the European Parliament.

“Sinn Féin have been critical of a government that have stood back, as we recently saw with Uisce Eireann’s recent announcement of significant increases in water and wastewater costs from anywhere between €250 to €5,000 annually, coupled with the cynical move to establish a generational renewal commission, despite Sinn Fein bringing forward legislation earlier this year calling for a thorough review and plan for the future of farming in this country,” she said.

“This Government is running out of ideas and with a general election looming is clutching for ideas – Sinn Fein have the solutions.

“We need a reset in Brussels, in the Irish Government and in the Government department that will stand up for, defend and show pride in this wonderfully diverse and critical sector.”

Could you be a local caregiver?

Home Instead, Ireland’s leading home care provider, is delighted to announce the creation of 1,000 new Professional CAREGiver roles to be filled at its upcoming National Hiring Week, taking from Monday September 2 until the Friday.

Home Instead provides compassionate, relationship-based care to upwards of 8,000 older adults throughout the country, employing a team of nearly 4,000 fully-trained Professional CAREGivers to support its services.

Amy Quille, General Manager at Home Instead,

Kilkenny, said: “Hiring Week, now in its third year, is a nationwide initiative to reach out and connect with those people who are interested in starting a career in care.

“And in doing so make a real difference to the lives ageing adults in their local communities and beyond.

“It’s also a fantastic opportunity for Home Instead to highlight what makes us an employer of choice in the home care sector, for example, we offer the best-in-class training, career progression opportunities,” said Amy Quille.

I have said is I know Minister McConalogue’s taskforce will look at all of these issues.”

The Taoiseach initially made the suggestion at the Tullamore Show recently that a new retirement scheme for farmers could help when it comes to succession issues at farm level.

Award: from left, are Tanya Mullins, Development Worker, Droichead Family Resource Centre, Bill Cuddihy, Chairperson, Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre, Aileen McInerney, Outreach Worker, Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre, Niamh Morgan, Communications Specialist, MSD Ireland and Mary Dolan, Manager, Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre PHOTO: Robbie Reynolds Photography

MSD Ireland awards Kilkenny’s Cois Nore MSD Ireland has announced Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre as a recipient of its new global grants programme, ‘Solutions for Healthy Communities’, looking to address systemic health inequalities in local communities across the world.

Following applications from a large number of organisations across countries all over the world and after careful consideration and assessment, MSD Ireland selected Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre, based in Kilkenny, was selected as their new partner, awarding the organisation with a twoyear funding commitment worth €80,000.

MSD’s grant is a newly launched global grants pro-

gramme aimed at investing in innovative solutions to improve health and quality of life for underserved populations worldwide.

Grant recipients for 2024 include organisations across 24 countries, with Ireland being the only country to boast two successful organisations as part of this year’s selection process: Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre in Co. Kilkenny and Sexual Health West in Co. Galway.

This is reflective of the high standard of applications from Ireland as well as MSD’s continuous support of local Irish communities.

Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre was selected out of 32 competitive applications from organisations across Europe and is one of only

five grant recipients based in Europe.

The Cois Nore Outreach Programme provides cancer support services to rural areas of Co. Kilkenny, addressing the accessibility challenges faced by those who cannot easily travel to care, such as the elderly, one-car families, people who are not well enough to travel, and carers who are not able to leave the person they are caring for alone for a long period.

Mary Dolan, Manager of the Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre, said: “We are delighted to be selected as a recipient of the MSD Solutions for Healthy Communities grant. This grant is vital in supporting our Cois Nore Outreach Programme,

which aims to ensure equal access to cancer support services across rural County Kilkenny. There are significant challenges in providing care to those who cannot easily travel to the city, and urban versus rural disparities in access to cancer care are a reality we face, unfortunately.

“Our goal is to bring essential services, such as reliable information, supportive listening, and professional counselling, directly to these communities. With the support of MSD and the Solutions for Healthy Communities grants programme, we can make a real difference in the lives of rural residents, ensuring they receive the care they need without the barriers of distance or transport.”

Martin to host pre-budget lunch in Kilkenny An Tánaiste Micheál Martin will give a keynote speech at a pre-budget gala lunch in Kilkenny on Friday, September 27.

The lunch, organised by Kilkenny Fianna Fáil and Fianna Fáil Headquarters, will take place in the Newpark Hotel at 12pm, five days before

the Budget on October 1.

Commenting ahead of the lunch, the Tánaiste said: “I am looking forward to visiting Kilkenny to host a pre-budget lunch attended by Fianna Fáil members and representatives from across the Kilkenny business community.

“I am particularly delighted

to be visiting again after the local and European elections in June, where Fianna Fáil won two seats in the Ireland South European constituency and 11 Council seats in Kilkenny,” he said. ”Fianna Fáil has a positive vision for Kilkenny city and county and I am looking

forward to discussing this with our local team and the wider local community on September 27.”

Tickets for the lunch are limited and can be purchased either from your local Councillor, online, Reidy Insurance or from Fianna Fáil Headquarters.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 30th August 2024

Opinion

The Fact Of The Matter Paul Hopkins

Harris and Walz show they can do better By any standard, Donald Trump and the Republican convention to nominate him as candidate for president failed.

In matters of foreign policy, his MAGA show depicted every problem in the world as easily bent to his alleged “strength”, as contrasted with the putative weakness of Joe Biden. As politics goes, it was primitive.

The Democratic convention for Kamala Harris and her running mate, Tim Walz, was all about showing they could do better. On issues of national security, they can show they are sophisticated as well as strong, making her more qualified than Trump. They can also signal that they’re a new generation, with a more up-todate worldview than Biden’s.

Already they are attracting young women, Blacks and GenZ to their call.

The Democrats can bring not only internationalism, but worldliness, as opposed to the Republicans bringing nationalism and provincialism. Harris

and Walz look beyond the water’s edge through a more nuanced prism than any that’s available to Trump.

To Trump, the world consists of fellow strongmen (such as Russia’s Vladimir Putin) to schmooze with and wayward allies (such as Germany) to browbeat on suspicion of stealing from the US. During his debate with Biden, Trump jeered that “Putin is laughing at this guy” (meaning Biden) and is “probably asking for millions of dollars for the reporter” (meaning Evan Gershkovich, an American journalist the Kremlin had incarcerated as a hostage). “I will have him out very quickly,” Trump boasted. “As soon as I take office. Before I take office.”

In the real world what happened was Biden got Gershkovich out, and several other American detainees. But he did so in a discreet and complex deal that involved multiple nations, including Germany, which did its part largely

against its own national interest in order to help its longtime ally, the US. When Biden and Harris greeted Gershkovich and the others on the tarmac outside Washington, they didn’t gloat as a reality-TV president would have done. And, yet, it was their diplomacy and finesse that made the exchange possible.

Trump’s running mate JD Vance turned his speech in Milwaukee into a nativist cri de coeur, claiming to speak for the hillbillies he once elegised.

As to Putin’s invasion, Vance has said: “I don’t really care what happens to Ukraine one way or the other.” On China he channels the new Washington groupthink, according to which the “commies in Beijing have it coming”.

While Walz, also a midwesterner, in contrast has done a bit more carefully considered research.

Harris, a former prosecutor and senator, has less experience abroad, although she has

compensated with a busy travel schedule as vice-president. In that role, she has had no choice but to represent the foreign policy of Biden. And she has been good at that. At the Munich Security Conference earlier this year, she presented a clear vision, broadly in line with Biden’s and antithetical

“She specifically called out abortion rights...

to Trump’s. She sees America as a global leader working with allies in Europe, Asia and elsewhere to maintain the international order. By temperament, she stands for engagement rather than MAGA isolationism.

Harris promotes her middle class roots. Many Americans know who she is, but not many know what she believes in or details of her background. Her convention speech recounted her motherʼs journey as an immigrant from India. She spoke about how her parents met – and ultimately divorced.

She talked about her childhood upbringing in a working-class neighbourhood in Oakland, California.

She also spoke of why she chose to become a lawyer – and a prosecutor. She drew a line from her early days in the courtroom to her public services as a politician. “My entire career, I have only had one client,” she said. “The people.”

Harris’s speech included

calls for unity and a pathway beyond the “bitterness, cynicism and divisive battles” of modern American politics.

The US had a “precious, fleeting” opportunity to “chart a new path forward”. But she was vague on details.Vague calls for unity and a path beyond partisanship are rhetoric that many presidential hopefuls have used in the past.

However, when Harris did turn to policy details, she spoke in generalities. She would be focused on lowering the costs of :”everyday needs” – including healthcare, housing and food.

She specifically called out abortion rights – as a means of preserving freedom.

“America cannot truly be prosperous unless Americans are fully able to make their own decisions about their own lives, especially about matters of heart and home,” she said.

It’s still a close call but the swing states could swing it for Kamala Harris.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 30th August 2024

News

Shane Murphy: 'Those size 12 boots will be impossible to fill' Mourners at Shane Murphy’s funeral mass remembered him as a “young man full of life and promise”. At 42, Shane has left behind his heartbroken wife, Maeve, and his baby son Bill.

The sudden death of the Kilkenny man who died while playing in a charity soccer match has left “a void” forever in the lives of those who knew him.

Shane Murphy, who had been serving as the Chairman of River Rangers AFC and was involved in Graigue Ballycallan GAA club in Co Kilkenny, fell ill during the charity soccer match on Wednesday evening August 21, and died.

The match had been organised in support of Cois Nore, the cancer support centre in Kilkenny and took place at Freebooters AFC astroturf in Kilkenny city.

The soccer and hurling communities in Co Kilkenny were united in their grief as they formed a guard of honour to say goodbye to their team mate.

"There will forever be a void in our hearts,” Shane’s brother Darragh told mourners at his older brother’s funeral mass in

Our Lady, Queen of Peace Church in Kilmanagh, Co Kilkenny.

"He is a fearless leader, so dedicated, so committed. Shane is the absolute definition of a captain and a leader. Off the pitch, Shane worked relentlessly to better River Rangers AFC. He has served as treasurer, secretary and chairman, sometimes all at the same time.

"Over the years, the soccer club has endured some truly difficult times but Shane was the driving force, moving River Rangers forwards and upwards, resulting in the thriving club it is today.

"Those size 12 boots will be impossible to fill.”

Not only was Shane Murphy dedicated to his clubs, River Rangers AFC and Graigue Ballycallan GAA club, he was "a devoted husband and father who formed an unbreakable bond with his young son, Bill".

Darragh continued: “But obviously, Shane’s big passion and one true love is his darling wife, Maeve. He adores her and they have had many great times and travels together including driving across Australia."

Leaving Cert pupils prasied for their results by principal in Castlecomer Pat Murphy, Principal of Castlecomer Community School has congratulated all the school's Leaving Certificate students of 2024 and to their teachers who helped get them there.

"We had some exceptional results this year with our highest number of students taking the honours Maths, English and Irish papers than any previous year," he said.

"Out of our 79 students who sat Leaving Cert 2024, 20% got over 500 points. Just over 40% attained more than 450 points in their Leaving Cert.

Special congratulations to Taya Korenska who achieved the maximum 625 points in her Leaving Cert.

"Also, a big well done to our Leaving Cert Applied students who did exceptionally well."

Mr Murphy said he expected the great majority of the class to go onto Third Level degree courses this year.

"Last year 91% of our Leaving Cert Class went on to study Third Level degree courses and we would expect similar numbers in 2024.

"We know that from our work with past students on average 85% of our students will go on to study Third Level degrees, 7% will go on to apprenticeships, 3% will go on to PLC courses with about 5% going to agricultural college or employment," he said.

"Our two guidance counsellors are on hand to assist our 6th Year class of 2023 with any further options, queries they might have. Well done to everyone and all the very best in your future endeavours."

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 30th August 2024

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Illustrated talk on stained glass windows “Tears of joy”; “ What a generous welcome we got on arrival”; “ The sun came out on such a happy occasion”; “What a feast for the eyes and ears”; “Congratulations on this afternoon’s presentation and the booklet is a lovely keepsake”; “George Sherwood would have been so proud”; “ My late good friend George Sherwood would have really enjoyed it all”; “I could have listened to Harry and Ursula all evening”; “When is the next celebration in St Aidan’s?”

These are just some of the expressions of joy and pleasure during the cheese and wine party following the illustrated talk in Kilmanagh last Sunday. Over a hundred people supported the event as part of Heritage Week, Cheese and Wine Party after celebrations in St. Aidan's Church, Kilmanagh on Sunday 18th August

Many hands make light work

Harry Meyer, Regina Fitzpatrick, Virginia Teehan, Valerie O'Connor, Ursula Conlon, Harry Carpendale_web

including Minister Malcolm Noonan, Minister for Heritage, Virginia Teehan, CEO Heritage Council of Ireland, Regina Fitzpatrick, Heritage Officer Kilkenny County Council.

The theme was “In Praise of Philanthropy” and celebrated the restoration and installation of important stained glass in St Aidan’s twenty five years ago. Tributes were paid to the late George Sherwood who

was instrumental in setting the work in progress together with the parishioners of St Aidan’s.

Special musical contributions from Harry Carpendale and Ursula Conlan included “The Last Rose of Summer” and two new compositions to mark the occasion: “Planxty George Sherwood” and “St Aidan”.

Harry Meyer gave the talk. Jim Wellwood thanked all involved for their contributions.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 30th August 2024

Opinion

As I See It Marianne Heron

Rights for the sisterhood: are we nearly there?

Just the other week we said ‘Goodnight Sister’ to Nell McCafferty, journalist and founding member of the Irish Women’s Liberation movement. While she may be gone, she was unforgettably unique and scores of illuminating memories and tributes to her have shot across the media like August meteor showers.

There are seminal moments among my own memories of her. There was the arrival of the Contraceptive Train, where I was waiting with other supporters and got whacked over the head with my own placard by a protesting member of Mna na hEireann, as Nell and other libbers hurled contraband Dutch caps and spermicides over the heads of customs men to waiting women.

There was Nell’s stalwart defence of Joanne Hayes, wrongly accused of murdering the Kerry baby, followed by her book ‘ A Woman to Blame’.

Most of all I remember Nell’s

presence at the gatherings of women journalists in Gaj’s café which ignited the slow burning rocket of women’s lib.

There was a daunting amount of change to be achieved then, women’s rights were almost non- existent in the early 1970s, no contraception, no divorce, no unmarried mothers or deserted wife’s allowance, no abortion, no protection for battered wives and their children, no right to obtain a bank loan as

a married woman without the husband’s consent. While all the above have been ticked off the to-do list it seems right to ask the question in honour of Nell, how much more remains to be done: are we nearly there?

Lately it might seem that the powers that be have become more conscious of women’s needs with free contraception available to women aged between 17 to 35, free HRT coming on stream and the pro-

posal by Justice Minister Helen McEntee that abusive , violent men should have to leave the family home rather than the woman involved and her children being made homeless by domestic violence . But no, we aren’t there yet, not by a long chalk.

Even in the last week ways in which the legal system can fail women and hit the headlines.

Celine Cawley was beaten to death by her husband Eamonn Lillis in 2008 yet he still retained his parental rights over his daughter Georgina who is campaigning to have the law changed. The trials of sex crime victims, take years to reach court in a system which can re-traumatise the victims who are not allowed legal representation and may be subjected to inappropriate personal cross examination. In one recent case cross-examination involved the display of intimate garments with the question: “Is this the kind of underwear you usually wear?”

This summer the inappropriate sentencing for violent crimes against women was made glaringly obvious when Natasha O’Brien was beaten unconscious in an assault by soldier Cathal Crotty who received a three- year suspended sentence, and boasted on line: “One (punch) to put her down, two to put her out.”

More than the law needs to change: most of all it’s the sexist culture which encourages some men to have a mind-set of entitlement to subservience and sexual gratification from women. On the day we learned of Nell’s passing there was a report of a case where Marius Lacatus dragged a woman into a Dublin Park and threatened to kill her in a sex assault.

I don’t think Nell would be cheering Minister Roderick O’Gorman for contesting bids to broaden the scope to the redress scheme for thousands of survivors of Mother & Baby homes, for many it is already

to late for justice long denied.

It can take more than campaigning though to change minds and Nell had a great way with her of bringing humour and a fine sense of the ridiculous to bear on situations. On the notorious Kerry Babies Tribunal set up to investigate Garda conduct of the case, the character and morals of Joanne Hayes were questioned intrusively by all male professionals, Nell’s writing says it all.

“The most illuminating example of the male mind at work on Irish womanhood came from Dr Brian McCaffery, Clinical Director of Psychiatry for the Eastern Health Board. ’She got herself pregnant on three occasions,’ he said.

“She did not.

“Joanne Hayes did not impregnate herself.

“It merely slipped Dr McCaffery’s mind that men are responsible for pregnancy too.”

Right on sister!

Talk in Thomastown Sessions House Healthy school lunches As part of Heritage Week a well-attended talk was given by local historian, Joe Doyle in the recentlyrenovated Sessions House on Logan Street, Thomastown. This building, under the Design and Craft Council of Ireland, will be the centre for a jewellery design and production course.

Those in attendance were informed by the DCCI representative, Mary Blanchfield that interviews would be held over the next few weeks seeking suitable candidates for the three-year course.

Joe Doyle, in a wide-ranging talk, touched on various aspects of law breaking and law enforcement where issues were dealt with through a system of local courts. Thomastown Petty Sessions Courthouse and Bridewell date from the early 1820’s. They replaced an earlier courthouse – the building with its gable facing onto Maudlin Street – and lock-up. The Petty Sessions replaced the earlier Corporation Court.

Joe, explained to the attendance, that initially the Petty Sessions was run by a Justice of the Peace, who normally did not have any legal training.

These were later replaced by a salaried Resident Magistrate. For much of the nineteenth century they were nineteen Petty Sessions courts in Co. Kilkenny of which five also housed the higher Quarter Sessions court – Callan, Castlecomer, Kilkenny, Thomastown and Urlingford. While the Thomastown courthouse escaped relatively unscathed during the War of Independence, in December, 1922, during the Civil War, it was

Kathryn Buckridge(daughter of Liam O'Neill, Ballinaboola) Jimmy Delaney (formerly Mill Street) Katarina Delaney

CLAIR WHITTY

Joe Doyle, Frances Kennedy, Jimmy Delaney, Katarina Delaney

set alight by the ‘Irregulars’. It was 1926 before it was back in service as a District Court. In the meantime, the court moved to the boardroom of Thomastown Workhouse (now St Columba’s). In 2007 it was amalgamated with Kilkenny District Court.

Probably the most interesting aspect of the talk was the mention of a selection of cases which came before Thomastown Petty Sessions during the later years of the nineteenth century. These records are held in the National Archives in Bishop’s Street, Dublin and can be examined on micro-film. Here one can find the names of the complainants, defendants, and witnesses (if any), the nature of the charge and the decision of the court. But of those examined, most of the cases had to do with assault, drunk in public, illegal fishing, ‘found-ons’, trepass and recovery of debt.

Unfortunately for Thomastown, the poor condition of a number of the original ‘Registers’ was such that they were not suitable for filming.

Following the talk there was ample time to walk around the building and visit the extensive workshop where the students will spend much of their time. Of particular interest to everyone was the old jail or bridewell to the rear of the courthouse. This austere two-storey building, with nine holding cells on both floors, was built with security rather than human comfort in mind!

Packing a healthy school lunch can be difficult especially if you have a fussy eater. I remember it well. You can only do your best. Seeing an empty lunch box coming home can be very rewarding, especially when you know that it was packed with good nutritious foods. But of course we can never know if it was given away to another child, that is always a possibility.

The ideal lunch box should have a balance of complex carbohydrates, good fats, protein and fibre.

Sandwiches and wraps work well for most, and can be packed with sliced turkey, chicken, or smoked salmon, and topped with finely chopped lettuce, chopped tomato, grated cheese, hummus, or a little mayonnaise.

Your child might prefer finger rather than sandwiches or wraps. In this case you could add in chunks of grilled chicken or chicken goujons, hard boiled eggs, cherry tomatoes, baby or sliced carrots, slices of cucumber, strips of bell peppers, cubes or cheese, or apple slices coated in lemon juice to stop them going brown. Or dried fruit like sultanas and

raisins. A container of almond nut butter if allowed, or Greek yoghurt could be used as a dip.

Yoghurts work well on their own or with some fruit or granola added. Left over pasta or rice dishes can work well too.

Water is the ideal drink, keep sugary drinks to a minimum if you can.

If you are reading this and thinking, there is no way that my kid will eat any of this, then take a look at Revive Junior or Revive Teen. This is a lovely supplement to top up on nutrients for your kids.

You can choose from Junior Revive for children aged 4-12 and Teen Revive for teens aged

13-18. They both have a wide range of nutrients to support your child’s energy, brain, heart, bones and immune system. They contain 22 active ingredients which includes 18 vitamins and minerals, 4 fruit and vegetable powders, Choline, Live Friendly Bacteria, Fibre and Beta Glucans. These supplements are in powder form that you can add to juices, smoothies, or yoghurts. I love that you only need to take it Monday – Friday to coincide with your morning school routine.

Hopefully these tips will help you come up with ideas for healthy school lunches.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 30th August 2024

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News

Two must-see gigs at Ryan’s Bar this September: a musical feast in Kilkenny

Shane Barry

Kilkenny’s Ryan’s Bar on Friary Street is gearing up for a spectacular September, with two gigs that promise to be the talk of the town. Known for its intimate setting and vibrant atmosphere, Ryan’s Bar is about to host a 10-piece band and a powerhouse blues act, making it the go-to spot for live music this month.

Shane Barry & The Silver South Ensemble – Sunday, September 1st

First up on Sunday, September 1st, is the return of Waterford’s Shane Barry & The Silver South Ensemble.

This isn’t just any band—it’s a 10-piece musical force, complete with a brass and percussion section that fills every corner of the room with lush, cinematic soundscapes.

If you’re wondering how on earth they’ll all fit up front in Ryan’s, don’t worry—it works like a dream. This is their third time performing here, and

they’ve got it down to an art.

Shane Barry, a multiinstrumentalist, songwriter, and producer, brings his solo album Songs from the Silver South to life with a live experience that’s as intimate as it is grand. The album, recorded in bedrooms and hallways during the pandemic, blends ambient country, indie new-wave, and folk-rock, creating a tapestry of stories inspired by small-town living. The Silver

South Ensemble does more than just back him up—they elevate his music to new heights, ensuring that every note resonates deeply with the audience.

If you’re looking to lose yourself in a night of evocative storytelling and beautifully crafted music, then Ryan’s Bar is where you need to be. The show kicks off at 8:30 PM, and with a band this big, you’ll want to get there early to grab a good spot.

Big Mama’s Door – Friday, September 6th Just when you think the week can’t get any better, Ryan’s Bar is set to host the Irish return of Big Mama’s Door on Friday, September 6th. Making their debut at Ryan’s, this Londonbased band is fronted by the charismatic Fiona McElroy, a Ballylinan native who brings a touch of Etta James and Patsy Cline to every performance.

Big Mama's Door is all about 50’s RnB, jazz, and soul, and they’ve been filling some of London’s most iconic venues like Ronnie Scott’s and Crazy Coq’s at Brasserie Zedel for years. Their music is a sassy, fun-filled journey through the golden era of rhythm and blues, with a mix of originals and covers that pay homage to the greats of Chess, Blue Note, and Atlantic Records. Fiona’s powerhouse vocals, backed by a tight-knit band, create an electrifying atmosphere that’s impossible to resist.

This is their first performance in Ireland in 17 years, making it a rare treat for music lovers.

With a lineup that includes guitarist Andy Knight, double bassist Franca Shaw, saxophonist Martin Dewhirst, pianist Stephen Walsh, and drummer Brad Shaw, Big Mama’s Door is set to deliver a performance that will leave you buzzing long after the last note is played. The music starts at 10 PM, so make sure to arrive early, because space up front will be at a premium.

Ryan’s Bar is pulling out all

Big Mamas Door

the stops this September with two gigs that showcase the best in live music. Whether you’re in the mood for the expansive, genre-blending sounds of Shane Barry & The Silver South Ensemble or the high-energy, retro-infused blues of Big Mama’s Door, there’s something for everyone.

So, clear your calendar, grab your friends, and get ready for a couple of nights that Kilkenny won’t soon forget. Ryan’s Bar the home of great music in Kilkenny.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 30th August 2024

News

SPECIAL REPORT

Rents up 41% since Covid

Rents nationwide are now 41% higher than they were at the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic – with Waterford seeing a 10% jump (€1,616 a month).

In their Rental Price Report for the second quarter of 2024 (Q2 2024), Daft. ie found that the average monthly rent nationwide was €1,922, and has been increasing by 7.3% a year.

The surveyed region with the greatest increase on preCovid levels was Connacht/ Ulster, which has seen an average jump of 76%. Co Leitrim saw the greatest individual increase, at 90%.

By comparison, Munster saw an average increase of 59%, Leinster (excluding Dublin) had 55%, while the capital had the lowest at 24%.

Rents rose by an average of 2% in Q2 compared with Q1 of this year, the fourteenth

consecutive quarterly increase, and the 45th in the last four years.

Rent inflation remains significantly lower in Dublin than in the rest of the country, with the capital seeing an increase of 3.5% compared with Q2 2023.

The national average for the same time period was 10.6%.

Outside of Dublin, the increases were much sharper.

Limerick City saw an increase over twice the national average, up 21% year-onyear, with an average rent of €2,107 a month. This was increase of 70% compared to pre-Covid rates.

Ireland’s other cities also saw double digit increases.

Galway went up by 13% (€2,114 a month), Cork rose by 12% (€2,005 a month), and Waterford saw a 10% jump (€1,616 a month).

Housing availability has remained tight across the

country, with a national trend down in housing stock.

Munster has seen the largest decrease, with stock down 17% between August 1, 2023 and the same time this year.

The report’s author, Ronan Lyons, an economist at Trinity College Dublin, said that the key exacerbating factor was supply.

“Ideally, more than a decade into a rental housing shortage, we would be talking about the gradual spread of the solution, rather than a return to the core problem.

“The solution is a new supply of market rental homes,” he said.

“However, the policy environment has only actively promoted the construction of new market rental housing for roughly four years out of the last 12.

“It is most unfortunate that pro-rental policies were scrapped just as the evidence was starting to emerge of their success.

Reintroducing pro-rental policies is, however, not a discretionary policy option.

“It is an imperative choice if Ireland is to have some semblance of a healthy housing system by the end of the decade,” he said.

Sinn Féin’s Pearse Doherty called the report a damning indictment of the government’s housing policy.

“Week after week, month after month we are presented with report after report highlighting the government’s failures in housing.

“People are growing weary of these reports. Parents don’t need another report to tell them that their adult children living in their box rooms cannot afford a home.

“Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil have shown that they are incapable and unwilling of fixing the housing crisis that they themselves created,” he said.

Social Democrat Housing Spokesperson Cian O’Callaghan said that the report was proof “that the maximum 2% rent increases allowed for in Rent Pressure Zones (RPZs) are not being enforced, which is putting renters under huge pressure”.

Many argue that rents are creating yields on properties which means the value of homes has increased because of rental inflation. A lot of people who are happy to see their house prices climb unfortunately are happy to see rents climb too.

The only way for this to end is to accept lower rents and lower house valuations. A lot of people don’t want this.

A tiered rental tax system might help bring more rental properties into the market and bring rents down.

Landlords such as Vulture Funds and Airbnb charging the highest rents to make the maximum profit should be paying the highest rate of 60% tax on rental income.

While Smaller Landlords charging lower monthly rents, and giving minimum of 2 to 5 year leases should be paying a lower rate of tax at 30% The current tax system and rates are driving some landlords out of the market.

Critics argue there has been no building of social housing in any kind of numbers since the ‘80s , and the current legislation allows vulture funds buy up housing in bulk, rent it back on longterm expensive rates and pay little or no tax.

Independent Ireland has 20 candidates for General Election Independent Ireland has up to 20 candidates secured to run in the next General Election, party leader Michael Collins has said.

Speaking on RTÉ Radio 1′s This Week programme Mr Collins said six or seven of these were women and that they are “talking to a lot more”.

He said he believes there would be an election imminently, despite Taoiseach Simon Harris saying ia general electionwould not

take place until next year.

Mr Collins said he was confident the party would be able to meet the gender quota of 40% female candidates but said it was not because of the funding implications.

The Electoral (Amendment) (Political Funding) Act 2012 introduced gender quotas into the Irish electoral system and last year the quota moved from 30% to 40%.

The quota is in place for

national elections only and imposes a financial penalty on political parties who do not meet the quota.

“I’d rather have 10 great women and there’s loads of great women out there, than to have 100 great women and maybe 90 not interested. We need good, strong candidates,” the party leader said.

The Cork South-West TD refused to say how many seats his party was targeting but said that his party

“absolutely” wanted to be in Government.

When asked if Independent Ireland was really a party or if it was instead a collective of independents with different agendas, Mr Collins said: “We certainly are a collective of Independents.”

When asked how it could then act as a party, he said: “We can certainly act as one, we’re a registered party to start with”.

He said the party would

implement a whip system on matters relating to a programme for Government and the Budget but that it would allow free votes “in other situations”.

Mr Collins was also asked about comments he made in a Hot Press interview earlier this year, in which he proposed the chemical castration of rapists and automatic 25-year sentences for people convicted of three “serious” crimes.

He said the proposal on

chemical castration was not an Independent Ireland policy but that automatic 25-year prison sentences was.

“We have to be strong in relation to crime. We haven’t been strong in relation to crime in this country, and there’s people attacking people in our streets, and they’re getting away,” he said.

“I won’t stand over it and Independent Ireland won’t stand over it.”

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 30th August 2024

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Advertisement

Breathe easy with RSI

Family and friends at the launch of RSI Ltd

Radon Services Ireland (RSI) is a new and upcoming business based in Kilkenny.

A family run organisation led by Yvonne who holds a Degree in Business & HR and her husband Aidan,

a Chartered Construction Manager, with support from their daughter Sarah who recently completed a HDip in Art. The company has been set up by the Power family to raise awareness about the

risks attributed to radon gas, to offer detection devices for homes and businesses, and also to provide remedial solutions for premises exposed to high levels of radon gas.

RSI offer a unique and professional service - firstly detecting the presence of radon in the premises and depending on test results, RSI then provide options and solutions for remedial works that can be undertaken by its experienced team. So, whether it’s a privately owned house, a rental property, a retail unit or a storage facility; RSI can provide detection and remedial services for your property.

What is radon?

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas formed in the ground, that is tasteless, odourless and colourless.

Radon can move through the soil and into the atmosphere, seeping into homes and workspaces through cracks in the foundation, vapour barriers, walls and floors.

More than 100,000 homes and businesses across the country are exposed to dangerously high levels of radon gas. Radon levels are measured in becquerels per cubic metre of air (Bq/ m3). The recommended action levels for long-term radon exposure in homes is 200Bq/m3, above which remedial measures should be considered. It’s essential to note that this reference level is not a hard and fast boundary between safe and dangerous levels, but rather a guideline indicating when it’s time to take action to reduce radon concentrations.

Radon risks Radon gas can have devastating health impacts and despite its deadly reputation, radon remains a largely unknown and misunderstood threat to many homeowners and workplaces. Radon is a known carcinogen, classified alongside asbestos and tobacco smoke as a cause of lung cancer. When inhaled, the radioactive particles produced by radon decay in the airways and on lung tissue, delivering a radiation dose that can increase the risk of lung cancer. In Ireland, it's estimated that around 350 lung cancer cases each year can be attributed to radon exposure. Certain individuals, such as active and former smokers, children and those with pre-existing lung conditions, are more susceptible to the dangers of radon.

Domestic radon detection It is recommended that all homeowners have their homes tested for radon, regardless of whether they live in an area known to have high radon levels; this is because radon levels can vary significantly from one building to another, even if neighbouring homes have tested below the national reference level. The only way to determine the safety of your home’s radon level is through testing, so it’s essential to take this step

to ensure your indoor air quality is safe and healthy.

As radon gas is colourless, tasteless and odourless special testing equipment is used to detect its presence; and RSI can provide these test kits. The procedure is relatively straightforward and once the order is placed you will receive the test kit within a few days with clear instructions and information about the detectors. Two vacuum-packed detectors are included in the kit, each to be placed at different locations in the premises when unwrapped; about 1m above floor level. The detectors are relatively small, about the size of a computer mouse; each with a unique serial number for reference.

Due to the gas’ properties, the detectors require at least 3 months exposure to the property’s atmosphere to measure as accurately as possible the level of radon gas; and once the 3 months has elapsed, the detectors will be returned to RSI (in a pre-stamped and addressed envelope that arrives with the test kit) and RSI will then process the kit to obtain results. Test result durations from the laboratory can vary from 2-4 weeks; and once received RSI will be in touch to explain and discuss the findings.

Get in touch with RSI on 083 387 2806 today to arrange a test kit for your property.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 30th August 2024

kilkennyobserver.ie

Opinion

Your Money & You John Ellis

Counting up the soaring cost of an education It’s upon us once again, the new academic year, with many families struggling with the considerable burden of educating their children. According to Zurich’s annual Cost of Education survey, the costs associated with primary, secondary, and third-level education in Ireland continue to rise, placing a substantial strain on family resources.

Conducted since 2018 it provides valuable insights into the estimated and actual costs parents face at each stage of their children’s education.

The latest survey shows that 90% of parents with children in primary or secondary school would like to have their children continue to thirdlevel education. However, the financial realities present a stark challenge with the costs associated with education rising significantly as children progress through the system.

Zurich’s research has shown that the cost of putting just one child through school can easily run into tens of thou-

sands of euro. For families with two or more children, the financial burden increases, necessitating careful financial planning and, often, significant sacrifices.

The survey provides a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with each educational level. highlighting that the expenses incurred for secondary school students is double those of primary school and third-level education costs triple those of secondary school.

The survey outlines both the average annual and lifetime costs associated with each tier of education: Primary: The average annual cost is €1,546, with a total lifetime cost of €12,368.

Secondary: The average annual cost is €3,088, accumulating to a lifetime cost of €18,525.

College: The average annual cost is €11,067, leading to a lifetime cost of €44,268.

At the primary school level, parents estimate an annual

cost of €1,412 per child, a slight increase from the previous year. However, the actual cost is still higher, at €1,546

a year. The largest expenses for primary school students include lunches (€333), afterschool activities (€246), shoes

(€175), and clothing (€158).

Despite the inflated costs, only 14% of primary school parents have taken out loans to cover these expenses, a decrease from 25% in 2023.

For secondary school students, parents estimate spending an average of €2,281 annually, down from €2,531 in 2023. However, the actual average annual cost is significantly higher, at €3,088. The greatest expenses for secondary education include private tuition or grinds (€912), lunches (€374), and transport (€326). To manage these costs many parents (20%), confirm having had to take out loans.

When it comes to third-level education, the costs are even more overwhelming. The survey indicates that college expenses can range significantly, with accommodation costs alone varying between €5,000 to €10,000, depending on whether the student lives in rented or student accommodation. In addition to these expenses, parents typically

provide their children with an average of €2,331 for other costs throughout the college year.

Zurich’s Chief Executive noted: “Parents need to be financially prepared for the significant costs associated with education in Ireland. It is not just about the tuition fees; the ancillary costs, such as accommodation, transport, and daily living expenses, add up quickly. Planning ahead and saving early are key strategies to ensure that the financial burden does not become overwhelming.”

Your plan should be, as education costs continuing to climb, to consider all available financial strategies to support your children’s educational ambitions. The trend of increasing costs across all levels is likely to persist, making it more important than ever for you to be financially prepared. john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633

Climate Change

– are we all playing our part?

WEEK 84

'Who’s job is it anyway'

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 30th August 2024

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Advertisement Aslan

Derek Warfield & the Young Wolfe Tones

Lovestock - Lán Le Grá: Ireland’s first grassroots healing & heritage festival Our upcoming family friendly festival, Lovestock, will celebrate harvest, healing and heritage at the beautiful Nore Valley Park in Kilkenny, a county rich in heritage and culture, on Saturday 7 and Sunday 8 September 2024.

Lovestock is Ireland’s first grassroots festival bringing all our mystical wonders together and celebrating the creativity from the recent and historical past. Born from the distress of unprecedented times in recent years, we know that mental and physical health has taken a turn for the worse. The team at Lovestock, comprised of

mental health and well-being practitioners as well as a variety of artists, have come together to create a space in which people and communities can unite and heal through the Irish arts and traditions. The power of creativity in the face of despair has always been the way that we find as a coping method as a nation. Through the mediums of creative arts, Lovestock will offer music, poetry, comedy, storytelling, workshops, as well as our traditional healing tools and recipes from across the island of Ireland. This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate and

embrace our heritage while encouraging and restoring harmony, peace and joy for our men, women, and children.

Our weekend includes a variety of therapies and treatments for all the family.

We will be hosting a wellness tent filled a variety of holistic treatments and workshops, a Talks Tent where various therapists and holistic professionals will provide insights and supports on common struggles. Therapy tent workshops and talks are free on the day. The public will also enjoy a therapy stall

area, exploring the many ways in which we heal, as well as our traditional artisan market including arts, crafts, and food from our beautiful land.

We have experts in the field

of farming, foraging, seeds, food, medicines, and cosmetics who will demonstrate their skills and give our communities the power to heal and create their very own homemade produce.

Our main stage is set to host our headliners Aslan and Derek Warfield & the Young Wolfe Tones.

Roscommon-born Ciara Lawless, who just debuted her first album, Dublin’s one to watch Cantered Soul, Kildare’s Conor Eiffe, Tipp-born Micah as well as Cork-born Erin & the Lens are just a few of our up-and-coming greats who will be blasting our main stage.

Cormac Lally will bless our Fort with his mystical words and stories, along with our traditional Irish lore-keeper Seanchaí Eddie Lenihan, who will bring his newly released books for signings. Our Fort

stone circle is packed with experts in our ancient past, poetry and comedy too. The public will also get to enjoy a Céilí dance in this unique location, as well as an open mic poetry session.

Therapists from all over our island will provide a taste of their skills and demonstrate the power of healing. Mental health professionals will also be there to assist any public in their journey out of the darkness of the past.

Workshops that tackle fear are bound to ignite the power that the human spirit and body encompasses. Men can experience a workshop called Men Rising Together, The Hero's Journey as well as immersing themselves in Wim Hoff instructed ice baths. Our children can enjoy the amazing Brat Bhride, Beehive and Willow Worry Faery Workshops and lots of fun and games. Our venue is already full of children’s activities and families will have the opportunity to meet and feed the farm animals. Visit the beehives while learning how to bring one to your very own garden. We have tractor rides too.

There is something to suit everyone’s appetite. Lovestock will be celebrating the spirit and heart of Ireland in every way possible.

FREE entry for children under 12. For more information you can visit www.lovestock.ie and our social media pages.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 30th August 2024

News Science & Wellbeing

Does religious belief make us act more morally?

There are many gods and many moral systems, and it isn’t always clear what we mean when we refer to either religion or morality. Nevertheless, one might still ask whether morality is in some way integral to religiosity bias. Do our intuitive ideas about the afterlife, contagion, or intelligent design fundamentally alter our moral behaviour? Socrates posed a similar question when he asked whether goodness is loved by the gods because it is good or whether goodness is good because it is loved by the gods.

Today, some of the best answers to this question come not from Greek philosophy but from scientific research.

Studies have shown that much of human morality is rooted in a single preoccupation: co-operation. More specifically, seven principles of co=operation are judged to be morally good everywhere and form the bedrock of a universal moral compass. Those seven principles are: help your kin, be loyal to your group, reciprocate favorus, be courageous, defer to superiors, share things fairly, and respect other people’s property.

This new idea was quite a big deal because up until then it seemed quite reasonable to assert – as cultural relativists have always done

– that there are no moral universals, and each society has therefore had to come up with its own unique moral compass. This is not the case.

Moreover, the same seven principles of co-operation on which these moral ideas are based are found in a wide range of social species and are not unique to humans.

These moral intuitions evolved because of their benefits for survival and reproduction. Genetic mutations favouring co-operative behaviours in the ancestors of social species, such as humans, conferred a reproductive advantage on the organisms adopting them, with the result that more copies of those genes survived and spread in ensuing generations.

Take the principle that we should care for (and avoid harm to) members of our family. This moral imperative likely evolved via the mechanism of ‘kin selection,’ which ensures that we behave in ways that increase the chances of our genes being passed on by endeavouring to help our close genetic relatives to stay alive and produce offspring.

Loyalty to group, on the other hand, evolves in social species that do better when acting in a co-ordinated way rather than independently.

Reciprocity (the idea that

I’ll scratch your back if you scratch mine) leads to benefits that selfish action alone cannot accomplish. And deference to superiors is another way of staying alive, in this case by allocating positions of dominance or submission in a coordinated fashion rather than both parties fighting to the death.

The theory of ‘morality as co-operation’ proposes that these seven principles of cooperation together comprise the essence of moral thinking everywhere. Ultimately, every human action that prompts a moral judgment can be directly traced to a transgression against one or more of these co-operative principles. At least, that was the theory. But how could we possibly establish that these seven principles were indeed universal?

The answer lies in an unprecedented study of humans’ moral reasoning around the world. A sample of 60 societies that had been extensively studied by anthropologists and therefore provided rich data on prevailing moral norms in those cultural groups.

To qualify for inclusion, each society had to have been the subject of at least 1,200 pages of descriptive data pertaining to its cultural system. It must also have been studied by at least

“Stealing openly (rather than covertly) from others was morally endorsed... one professionally trained anthropologist based on at least one year of immersive fieldwork utilising a working knowledge of the language used locally. The sample of societies was selected to maximise diversity and minimise the likelihood that cultural groups had adopted their moral beliefs from one another. They were drawn from six major world regions: Sub-Saharan Africa, Circum-Mediterranean, East Eurasia, Insular Pacific, North America, and South America.

The aim was to mine 400 documents describing the cultures of these 60 societies to establish whether or not the seven principles of co-operation were judged

morally good or not, whenever they were mentioned as salient. We found 3,460 paragraphs of text that touched upon these co-operative principles. In each case, we wanted to know whether the type of co-operation described was characterised using words such as good, ethical, moral, right, virtuous, obligatory, dutiful, normative, or any other morally salient language.

This produced 962 observed moral judgments of the seven types of cooperative behaviour. In 961 of those instances (99.9% of all cases), the co-operative behaviour was judged morally good. The only exception was on a remote island in Micronesia where stealing openly (rather than covertly) from others was morally endorsed. In this unusual case, however, it seemed to be because this type of stealing involved the (courageous) assertion of social dominance.

So, even though this one instance seemed to contradict the rule that you should respect other people’s property, it did so by prioritising the alternative cooperative principle of bravery. The main take-home here is that the seven cooperative principles appear to be judged morally good everywhere.

Does this necessarily have anything to do with religios-

ity, though? After all, there is no obvious reason to think we must have gods to believe in the seven moral principles. However, since so many people in the world seem to think there is a link between being religious and being good, this question clearly deserved close attention.

The answer turned out to be a little complicated. One element of the universal moral repertoire does seem to be intuitively connected with our religious instincts: one that takes us back to the early developing expectation that supernatural agents will be socially dominant.

But what about the other moral domains – could they also be linked to our religious beliefs and behaviours? Are our religious intuitions – for example relating to supernatural beings and forces, life after death, or intelligent design in nature – linked to the seven moral rules we have also found to be universal?

The answer is yes – but in ways that are altogether less natural and intuitive. That is, the link between most of the features of intuitive religiosity and the universal moral repertoire is not itself natural but a product of the way religions as cultural systems have evolved as part of our unnatural history of civilisation.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 30th August 2024

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Travel & Leisure Lake Tahoe Adventurous, nature-loving families will adore a dreamy vacation at Lake Tahoe. In the summer, it’s the perfect destination for lake-life activities, from swimming and boating to jet-skiing and paddle-boarding. When the weather starts to get cooler, ski season sets in, and excited families can spend winter break relaxing at one of the many ski resorts in between runs.

If you’re feeling adventurous, older children will enjoy whitewater rafting or mountain biking, while those of all ages can enjoy the plethora of hiking, biking, and swimming spots dotted around the area. Tahoe Treetop Adventure Parks is perfect for adrenaline seekers thanks to its zip lines, ropes courses, and elevated bridges.

Where to stay in Lake Tahoe: For ski-in/ski-out: Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe.

For golfing and nature walks: Everline Resort & Spa. For seclusion: The Landing Resort Jackson Hole, Wyoming Whether you’re checking in for a winter break trip or booking a summer getaway, Jackson Hole has a little something for everyone.

Adventurous families can go in the winter for the spectacular ski scene while summer-breakers can enjoy equally gorgeous vistas in the warm weather. The lush wilderness of the Jackson Hole Valley is home to Grand Teton National Park, and is just a short trip from Yellowstone, making it the perfect base to tour all the spectacular nature in the area.

This is a particularly great trip for outdoorsy families who are interested in hiking, biking, and enjoying the surrounding flora and fauna.

If you’ve had enough of the great outdoors, head to the town of Jackson to walk through the galleries, shops, and restaurants.

Great family holidays in America Where to stay in Jackson Hole: For a budget-friendly option, The Lodge at Jackson Hole. For a rooftop terrace with a view, Cloudveil, Autograph Collection. For a stay in the heart of town, Hotel Jackson Charleston, South Carolina The charming city of Charleston is a dream destination for foodies and architecture lovers alike. The brightly coloured streets will pull you in, and the delicious barbecue, seafood, and southern cuisine will keep you there. From beautiful beaches to self-guided walking tours to afternoon tea at Hotel Bennett — a luxurious experience

your older ones won’t soon forget — there’s so much to do you’ll have trouble fitting it all in.

The Charleston Museum and Gibbs Museum of Art are both worth a visit, while those with a little more energy to expend will enjoy a trip to one of the water parks or playgrounds in the area.

Take a horse-drawn carriage or a boat ride to see the city in style. The Charleston City Market and Charleston Farmers Market are both fun daytime activities for the whole family.

Where to stay in Charleston: For a magnificent view, The Dewberry Charleston. For a central location, Charleston Place.

Fine dining in Paris 1. Bistrot Paul Bert There’s no better way to start or end a trip to Paris than with the steak frites at Bistrot Paul Bert, which arrive swimming in a peppercorn cream sauce so luscious you’ll lick the plate clean. Bertrand Auboyneau’s beloved French establishment opened on rue Paul Bert, a hedonist’s hyphen of a street in the 11th, in 1997, and has remained the go-to bistrot for locals and foreigners alike — that is, if you can get a reservation (via phone only, so brush up on your bonjour). The decor is classic and charming, with red leather banquets, mosaic floors, and a hand-scrawled chalkboard menu. You’ll come for the steak, but stay for the airy soufflé and until you’ve polished off a bottle or two from the ever-evolving natural wine list, which

miles of beaches, lush rainforests, and picturesque cliffs, this is the Hawaii that you’ll see on the front of a postcard, complete with everything from the iconic plumeria flowers to the bright blue waters.

Check in to one of the many family-friendly beach resorts on Maui, and spend your days relaxing and enjoying island life. Visit the local shops, sneak in a hike or two, and take a tour through the Maui Tropical Plantation, where you can take the Tropical Express tram while learning more about the fruits, vegetables, and flowers grown on the farm.

Where to stay in Maui: For a beachfront resort, Wailea Beach Villas Resort. For a massive pool, Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort.

For a low-key oceanfront experience. Outrigger Ka’anapali Beach Hotel.

boasts some excellent back vintages from their cellar.

2. Amagat Walking down the cobbled alley of Père Lachaiseadjacent Villa Riberolle always feels a bit like trespassing. It is, quite literally, off the beaten path—watch your feet as you navigate the uneven cobblestones, especially when returning home after a few liberal pours of Amagat’s house vermouth. Follow the din of laughter and music floating from around the corner and you’ll find yourself in the city’s sultriest summer garden, a leafy courtyard strung up with twinkle lights where stylish Parisians sip on natural wine, snack on Catalan tapas, and smoke freely. New TurkishSwedish chef Sahin Erdal is

putting his own spin on the menu, with a whole grilled fish dressed with sweet paprika glaze and salsa verde stealing the show—order

Outer Banks, North Carolina The Outer Banks have long been a popular vacation spot for East Coasters, but they are having an even bigger moment right now thanks to the hit Netflix show of the same name. During the day, bask in the sun and enjoy a plethora of familyfriendly beach activities from swimming and picnicking to more adventurous pursuits like kayaking and sailing.

You can also take a turn on land and admire the view from one of the classic East Coast lighthouses, like the Currituck Beach Lighthouse, or explore the massive sand dunes. When the sun sets, gather the whole family and

embark on a foodie mission to The Blue Point, where you can enjoy tasty Southern cuisine and fresh seafood.

Where to stay in the Outer Banks: For a waterfront resort, Sanderling Resort. For sunset views, two-bedroom beach house. For a great location, private rental above the boardwalk

it alongside their hallmark mountain of shoestring French fries laced with spicy bravas sauce.

This is a home-cooked meal like nothing you’ve ever had: Maison Sota is in fact a house — the only one on rue Saint Hubert, formerly used for wine storage and as a repair workshop for coffee machines — now converted into an airy, loft-like space that seats 40 around an open kitchen; the best seats are along the communal table or facing the wood-fired oven at the bar. Chef Sota Atsumi, formerly of Clown Bar, mans the kitchen himself, while guests snack on addictively good chestnut bread and ogle the room’s warm rhubarb hues and traditional terracotta tiles.

Chef Atsumi’s tasting menu is available at lunch and dinner, including Sunday lunch. Expect plump scallops with licks of vibrant uni and fresh jerusalem artichoke juice, or dehydrated cabbage leaves rehydrated in dashi to deliver a saucy surprise.

While tasting menus are often

3. Clown Bar Famed for their dashisoaked veal brains and sunny Belle Époque decor, this monument historique is perennially packed with expats and tourists tucking into classic French dishes with a distinctly Japanese touch.

Don’t let the crowd deter you: this is one of the most perfect meals in the city, especially when washed down with a glass of natural wine at the zinc bar or out on the terrace (if you don’t mind second-hand smoke). Come here for a full meal, or for a bite-sized portion of what might be the best beef tartare in Paris, served on a crispy cracker of nori and puffed rice.

4. Maison Sota

Maui, Hawaii Hurricanes not withstanding, a trip to Hawaii may require a bit more planning but it is well worth it. Older children will love the chance to see aquatic wildlife and plants while snorkelling and enjoy a surfing lesson at one of the beginner breaks, like The Cove or Launiupoko. Between

Orlando, Florida Home to more theme parks than you could ever hope to explore during one trip, Orlando has plenty to do for the whole family.

The crowning jewel of the Floridian city is, of course, Disney World [pictured], home to Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios, but don’t overlook other nearby options, including SeaWorld Orlando and Universal Islands of Adventure. Beyond just amusement parks, there are a ton of other great activities to get up to in the area, including some beautiful golf courses, fun shops, and tasty restaurants for the whole family.

Where to stay in Orlando: For an overwater bungalow in Disney, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. For an animal escape in Disney, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. For a theme park-less getaway, JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes. For an off-Disney stay with a children programme, a tick off the bucket list, this is one you’ll want to return to again and again.

5. Les Enfants du Marché Tucked among the labyrinth of flower stands, butchers, and Moroccan traiteurs in Paris’ oldest food market, this seasonal seafood-focused stall never disappoints (except when you can’t snag a stool). Dishes are plated with precision and Pollock-esque flair, like spiky Galician sea urchins with duck consommé and garlic flowers flecked with herby oil. The wine list is equally show-stopping—the energetic, bilingual servers will be glad to pour you a taste or two, or set you up with something special, like a bottle of mineral-driven Jean- François Ganevat alongside pancetta-like cubes of pressed pig ears with green asparagus and kumquats.

Best of all, they’re open on Sundays, when many other restaurants are closed.

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Opinion

Furthermore Gerry Moran

A highway to Hell but only a stairway to Heaven!

Been doing a lot of rummaging lately. Rummaging, though the correct term is decluttering. And I’m decluttering because my good wife and I are moving out. We’re doing what many couples our age are doing – we’re downsizing. We have four children, none in the country, and not likely to be. So, it’s not a difficult choice but it is an emotional one; leaving the home where we’ve lived for 37 years.

Leaving the home that was meant to be the home of my late sister Eadie who worked abroad with the United Nations most of her life and who purchased the property as her pension fund.

It wasn‘t to be – breast cancer, at 45, put paid to her plans and I, and my wife, end up in a beautiful home that I always think of as, not just our home, but Eadie’s home.

Anyway as I am rummaging I came upon a sheaf of A4 pages with the name Sheelagh Lynch written on

top. Sheelagh and I were part of a writing group back in the mid-80s. Sheelagh and I knew each other vaguely but, with the advent of the internet, we became Facebook friends and I loved Sheelagh’s posts – so much so that I noted them down on those A4 sheets.

And so I came upon them last week, the third anniversary of Sheelagh’s passing as it happened. Coincidence? Or perhaps some friendly positivity, and humour, from the other side? Thank you, Sheelagh and I have no doubt but that you were on that stairway to Heaven.

Here’s a sample of Sheelagh’s posts: To my children: never make fun of me about computer stuff. I taught you how to use a spoon. ***** The grass isn’t greener on the other side; it’s greener where you water it. ***** Happiness is a lot easier

when you stop complaining about your problems and you start being grateful for all the problems you don’t have. ***** Happiness Rules: 1. The past is good to learn from, not live in. 2. Time heals most things, give time, time.

3. Don’t compare your life to others. And don’t judge them either. 4. Stop over-thinking things. 5 Stop caring what others think – just be your best, truest self. ***** If I cut you off, chances are you gave me the scissors. *****

Everyone wants to be successful until they see what it takes. *****

“The past is good to learn from, not live in..

Husband to wife: “I’m on an exercise programme. I have to walk three miles a day.” Wife: “Great, this time next week you’ll be 21 miles away.” ***** Stop being afraid of what could go wrong and start being positive about what could go right. *****

Kilkenny Arts Office -

Poetry Broadsheet 2024 Photo Credit: Róisín O'Sullivan (Imagery by Ró) and the Kilkenny Arts Festival The Kilkenny County Council Arts Office officially launched the 24th edition of the Kilkenny Poetry Broadsheet during the Kilkenny Arts Festival on the 16th August 2024 in the Parade Tower, Kilkenny Castle. It was successfully launched by Kilkenny Arts Festival Poet in

Residence, Martina Evans and Kilkenny County Council’s Arts Officer, Mary Butler.

The aim of the publication is to give local writers a platform for their work. Being published since 2000, it continues to be a much sought after and treasured platform for writers to expose their work to the public. This year one hundred and ten poems were submitted by sixty writers for consideration, with thirteen poems being selected for

publication by Irish poet James Harpur. The Broadsheet was beautifully illustrated by local designer and illustrator Tim Harper of Wax Botanical.

Poets selected for publication included: Cathy Hogan, Fergal Canton, Ian Chambers, Janis Woodgate, Alice Bennett, Gobnait Kearney, David Kirby, Susie Lamb, Noel Howley, Carmel Hogan, Angela Esmonde, Aoife Riach, Paddy Doyle.

Writer James Harpur, this year’s editor, had the tough yet enjoyable task of selecting the poems for publication.

James Harpur has published eight books of poetry, including The Examined Life (2021), a verse memoir of his time at boarding school. He has also published a debut novel, The Pathless Country, set in Galway, Dublin and London in the years leading up to the 1916 Rising. It was winner of the JG Farrell Award

I may be the black sheep of the family but some of the white sheep aren’t as white as they first appear. ***** The first step towards getting somewhere is to decide that you are not going to stay where you are. ***** The ability to speak several languages is valuable but the ability to keep your mouth shut in any language is priceless. ***** Normal is getting dressed in clothes that you buy for work and drive through traffic in a car that you are still paying for in order to get to the job you need to pay for the clothes and the car and the house you leave vacant all day so you can afford to live in it. ***** Laughter is the best medicine – but I like to think that a big bottle of wine is the way to go. *****

Sometimes I just want someone to hug me and say: “I know it’s hard. You’re going to be okay. Here’s some chocolate and a thousand euro.” ***** No matter how you feel – get up, dress up, show up and never give up, ***** Paddy and Murphy are in the airport queuing at the baggage check-in at the start of their holiday. “I wish I’d brought the TV with me,” says Paddy. “Why’s that?” asks Murphy. “Because the elfin’ tickets are on top of it.” ***** Sometimes the people who are thousands of miles away from you, can make you feel better than people right beside you.

and shortlisted for the John McGahern Prize. He is a member of Aosdána and lives in West Cork.

James Stated that: ‘I was deeply touched by these poems, with their tales of illness and loss, wistful longings, obsessions, gentle reflections on

landscapes, and poignant memories of childhood: it was like opening a benign Pandora’s Box full of the elements of the human condition.’

Mary Butler, Arts Officer ‘it’s so exciting year on year to see the Broadsheet come to fruition. The Arts Office is delighted to be providing an annual opportunity for established and emerging Kilkenny poets to be published and share their work with audiences new and old’ The Kilkenny Poetry Broadsheet Issue 24 is available free of charge at the Arts Office, Patricks Court, Patrick Street, Kilkenny. It is also available from all the libraries throughout the County.

For further information on this or other Arts Office projects contact the Arts Office on 056-7794547 or email : deirdre.southey@ kilkennycoco.ie or visit our blog kilkennyartoffice.ie

***** The fact that there’s a ‘highway’ to Hell and a ‘stairway’ to Heaven says a lot about anticipated traffic numbers.

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Opinion

The Last Word Pat Coughlan

Re-Turn deposit: making polluters pay, or rewarding them?

The Re-Turn deposit return scheme has been making waves in Ireland, aiming to tackle the ever-growing issue of waste. The idea is simple: you pay a small deposit when you buy a drink, and you get it back when you return the empty container. Sounds straightforward, right? But as I’ve been looking into it, I can’t help but wonder if it’s really making the polluters pay or just giving them a pat on the back. Let’s dive in and see what this scheme is all about and what it hopes to achieve.

Who funds the ReTurn service in Ireland So, you’ve probably wondered, just like I did, where the cash comes from to run the ReTurn service in Ireland.

It’s a fair question, especially when we’re all picking up bottles and cans and feeling good about saving the planet.

While it’s easy to think the Government’s footing the bill — partially true —there’s more to it.

The Government does throw in some euros, mostly to get

the ball rolling and to promote the service. But here’s the kicker: businesses are also chipping in. Companies that produce all those drink containers we’re busy returning are paying fees. It’s like they’re being nudged to up their game in sustainability.

Yet, cynically, you could say they’re just passing those costs on to us consumers through price hikes. So, while it might look like it’s the companies doing their bit, in the end, it’s you and I who might end up paying more for our favourite drinks.

I’ve got to admit, the Re-Turn scheme leaves me feeling a bit torn. On one hand, it’s great to see an initiative that encourages people to recycle.

But on the other, I can’t shake off the feeling that it’s letting the real culprits off the hook.

Are we really holding polluters accountable, or are we just giving them a free pass to keep doing what they’re doing? It’s a bit of a head-scratcher, and I find myself grappling with these mixed emotions every

time I think about it.

I can’t help but wonder if the Re-Turn scheme is really hitting the polluters where it hurts. Are companies just finding clever ways to dodge

responsibility? It seems like they might be using the scheme as a get-out-of-jailfree card. By participating, are they genuinely making amends, or just ticking a box?

I’m sceptical about the penalties in place — are they tough enough to make a real difference, or just a token gesture?

It’s more about getting us to recycle rather than cutting

down on waste in the first place. Sure, it’s great to see people returning bottles and cans, but are we really tackling the root of the problem? It seems like we’re just putting a plaster on a bigger issue.

Shouldn’t we be focusing on reducing the amount of waste we produce altogether?

It’s hard to tell if businesses are truly committed to sustainable change or just looking for an easy way out. And is the Re-Turn scheme is really built to last. Is it genuinely fostering sustainable changes, or are we just scratching the surface?

I’ve got my doubts. It feels like we might need more robust measures to make a real impact. The broader implications for the environment and society are huge, and I’m not convinced this scheme is the silver bullet we need.

I reckon we need a more robust approach that tackles waste at its source. Maybe it’s time to rethink our strategies and hold the big players accountable in a more meaningful way.

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Global Report At the centre of a US legal battle are the diaries of a top Chinese official and prominent critic of Beijing – raising questions about who will write the history of modern China.

Li Rui, who died in 2019 at the age of 101, held a number of important positions within the ruling Chinese Communist Party, including personal secretary to longtime leader Mao Zedong. In detailed handwritten diaries he kept from 1946 to 2018, Li recorded his experiences and observations during seven tumultuous decades of Communist Party rule — a version of events that might conflict with the offcial party line.

As a high-ranking offcial, Li was an authoritative witness to parts of history that the party would rather not highlight — from internal disputes and policy missteps to the deadly Tiananmen Square crackdown — because they challenge its narrative of uninterrupted prosperity and political unity as China rose from a poor and isolated nation to become the world’s secondlargest economy.

A trial that has begun in California will decide whether Li’s diaries should remain at Stanford University’s Hoover Institution, where his daughter donated them, or be returned to his elderly widow, who has been accused of acting as a front for Chinese authorities who would most likely censor them.

“We’ve never had something like this before,” said Joseph Torigian, a research fellow at the Hoover Institution.

“These are diaries and personal papers that run to dozens and dozens of boxes that talk about everything from the early years of the revolution to Li Rui’s work as a secretary to very powerful individuals, including Chairman Mao.” Few top Chinese Communist Party officials have kept such detailed diaries, especially after the Cultural Revolution of the 1960s and 1970s, when they were used as evidence for political persecution.

“It is very hard to study the People’s Republic of China because it is an authoritarian regime that believes that different narratives about its past are very dangerous for regime security, which means that they run a tight ship,” said Torigian, who is also an assistant professor at the School of International Service at American University.

In his diary, Chinese official

The US court battle over diaries and reign of Mao Zedong

Li Rui referred to the 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown as “Black Weekend”.

Hoover Institution Stanford says Li had directed his daughter, Li Nanyang, to donate the materials to the Hoover Institution, which is known for its large archive of historical materials on modern China, for fear they might otherwise be destroyed by Chinese authorities as part of a crackdown on dissent he saw growing worse under President Xi Jinping.

Li Nanyang, a vocal critic of the Chinese Communist Party who lives in the United States, carried most of the diaries out of China in 2017. She made

the donation to the Hoover Institution days before her father’s death in 2019, once she felt he was safe from possible reprisal.

Shortly after that, Li’s second wife, Zhang Yuzhen, sued for the return of the original diaries, which she says are rightfully hers. Her lawyers argue that they contain deeply personal information about her relationship with Li, and that the violation of her privacy has caused her emotional distress.

A Beijing court found in favour of Zhang, a ruling Stanford says cannot be enforced because it was denied the opportunity to appear in court

and defend itself. The university has sued Zhang in California in return.

Lawyers for both sides say their claims are buttressed by comments Li made in his diaries and in interviews about what he wanted to happen to his writings and who should represent him.

But given that Zhang is now in her 90s, questions have been raised as to whether the lawsuit was her idea.

“She will not be capable of making money or contributing money for a lawsuit or to pursue the return of the diary,” said Feng Chongyi, an Associate Professor of China studies

at the University of Technology Sydney, who met regularly with Li. Only the Chinese Communist Party, he said, has “the resources, the money and the political will to do that.”

Zhang’s lawyers have said that she is acting alone. The Chinese Foreign Ministry did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Feng and others worry that Chinese authorities would severely restrict access to any diaries by Li, a longtime critic of the party’s leaders and policies, whose writings were banned in China in 2006.

Li joined the Chinese Com-

munist Party in 1937 at the age of 20, rising through the ranks as it defeated the existing government in a civil war to gain power in 1949. By 1958, Li had become Mao’s personal secretary.

But he was expelled from the party the following year over his criticism of the Great Leap Forward, an industrialisation programme championed by Mao that led an estimated 30 million to 40 million people to die of starvation in three years.

During his 20 years in exile, Li was imprisoned in a labour camp and eight years in solitary confinement before being welcomed back into the party.

Iranian hackers target WhatsApp accounts of Biden and Trump An Iranian hacker group targeted the WhatsApp accounts of individuals associated with the administrations of President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump, Meta has announced.

“This malicious activity originated in Iran and attempted to target individuals in Israel, Palestine, Iran, the United States and the UK,” the social media giant said in a statement, noting that the effort

primarily focused on “political and diplomatic officials, and other public figures, including some associated with administrations of President Biden and former President Trump”.

This new report by Meta adds to the growing list of attempts by Iranian-backed hackers to influence the 2024 US presidential election.

Just last week, Google said an alleged Iranian hacking operation aimed at US presi-

dential campaigns is ongoing and wide-ranging, after the platform announced unsuccessful attempts by hackers to log in to the email accounts of people associated with Biden, Trump, Vice-President Kamala Harris and both the Democratic and Republican presidential campaigns.

Last week US intelligence agencies officially linked Iran to an instance of a hack and leak operation target-

ing Trump’s campaign, after hackers used access to Trump operative Roger Stone’s email account to try to break into the account of another campaign official, according to a report

by CNN. The FBI pointed to a statement when asked about the purported latest hacking attempts by Iran.

The intelligence community “is confident that the Iranians have through social engineer-

ing and other efforts sought access to individuals with direct access to the presidential campaigns of both political parties,” the FBI and other agencies said in a joint statement.

Meta said its investigation linked the efforts to a group called “APT42,” known for using phishing tactics to steal credentials to people’s online accounts.

Meta’s security team blocked

a cluster of accounts posing as support agents for various tech companies, an activity it linked to APT42.

“We have not seen evidence of the targeted WhatsApp accounts being compromised, but out of an abundance of caution, we’re sharing our findings publicly, in addition to sharing information with law enforcement and our industry peers,” the tech company said.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 30th August 2024

Butts Young Leaders group It was the final Saturday of the Kilkenny Arts festival. The city was alive with arts in all shapes and sizes.

St John’s priory entertained with Mari Samuelson on violin with Julien Quentin on piano.

Fictions picture company were preparing to light up the castle later that evening.

Meanwhile the Kilkenny alternative art festival (AKA) had every space utilised with craft stalls, music, photographic and art exhibitions.

The 37th Irish International Goldwing Owners Club of Ireland rode through the town drawing applause from those who stopped to watch this wonderful International drive through. They were based in Gowran Park for the weekend and were celebrating 40 years in existence.

If nothing else, Kilkenny proved that art, in all its manifestations comes in different guises.

And if further proof were needed to back up that statement, the good people of the Butts community added their own panache and pizazz to the day.

An end of Summer barbecue was held at the Fr McGrath Centre. The event was organised by ‘the young leaders group at the centre in conjunction with ‘Tar Isteach housing’. It was very much community based with, what looked like, every man woman and child from the area supporting the ‘chill and grill’ afternoon. The best of food, music, tug o war and a sports day were all there to be enjoyed. Mick Cummins from Kilkenny Community radio was broadcasting live for the radio station.

Mayor Andrew McGuinness was in attendance and told the Observer that he has long been an admirer and supporter of the Fr McGrath centre and the work they do. “The body of people here at the centre are an example to all, of what community work is about”, said the mayor. Andrew continued: “It is refreshing to see so many young people take on the role of leaders, and that is what we are seeing here today” Tirlán Staff & Don Bosco: The Butts Young Leaders group who partnered up with the Good Shepherd team to organise the day had just returned from Malta where they took part and were inspired by young people working on Summer programmes for children organised by the Don Bosco Salesians, famed for their training work with young leaders. Director at the centre Steve Murphy said: “The training opportunity given to these local young teenagers by the Tirlán staff fundraising resulted in them having the experience of their life time and inspired them to work with their community’s younger children on this and other projects.

The Butts Young Leaders group are now taking part in a yearlong pilot training project that is hoped to result in them forming a Butts Youth Council to give a voice to young people in their housing community.

Stephen continued: “This family event or young leader training programme couldn’t happen but for a partnership with Tirlán staff, Good Shepherd, Don Bosco and local business support.”

Mr Murphy thanked Community Radio for their attendance and also Mayor Andrew McGuinness.

Great turnout Aiden Quigley, housing manager with ‘Tar Isteach’ said he was delighted with the turnout of so many people to the fun day and thanked the local business community for their help in making the day a success.

Aiden went on to say that the event was met with great enthusiasm from both the tenants of Tar Isteach and the wider community and it was truly uplifting to witness such strong participation and involvement from all.

“At Tar Isteach Housing, we greatly value our tenants, and Saturday's event was organised as a gesture of appreciation for that” said Mr Quigley.

“We believe that events like these play a crucial role in strengthening the bonds within our community, fostering positive tenant engagement, and creating a warm, welcoming environment for all and we will continue to build a strong and vibrant community” continued Aiden.

The Butts Young Leader Co- Chairpersons, Lillian Long and Joseph Donovan, thanked the staff and volunteers of The Good Shepherd Centre for their incredible effort in making the ‘Chill and Grill’ day such a success. Lilian and Joseph also took the opportunity to thank the Tirlán staff for their recent sponsorship that made their youth training experience in the Don Bosco youth club in Malta possible.

Community bonds strengthened as Butts Leaders host chill and

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Butts Young Leaders group

Young grill

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Opinion

The Black Abbey

Part two

Another view of the magnificent Black Abbey

A Treasure to Behold

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

Continuing the story of this treasure of Kilkenny’s heritage...

By 1776, the Black Abbey’s status as a church had been almost forgotten. The building was in a dilapidated state. Its roof had fallen in, part of the nave had disappeared, and the church pillars were buried in rubble. The magnificent gable window was bricked up, while other windows had long since been transferred to a nonCatholic church in Dublin.

But in 1789, restoration work on the Black abbey was underway, even though an Act of Parliament forbade the repair of ancient monasteries.

Luckily, the authorities turned a blind eye and the marathon face-lift continued.

In 1816, a mass was celebrated there for the first time since Cromwell’s attack. The Dominicans began to re-establish their position in Kilkenny. By the end of the 19th century, the abbey had its nave restored and a new priory stood next to the church.

Over the following decades, further restoration schemes were initiated at the abbey.

Between 1976 and 1979, extensive renovations were carried out. Stone replaced plaster on the walls. New heating and lighting systems were installed. The organ loft was repaired. A master-joiner, Jimmy Dunlop of Kilkenny,

recreated the delicate stone ribs on the ceiling in medieval style.

On February 11th, 1979, the Bishop of Ossory, Dr. Peter Birch dedicated the Black Abbey. The President of Ireland, Dr. Patrick Hillery and the Taoiseach, Jack Lynch, were among the impressive line-up of celebrities who attended the

A treasure of Kilkennys heritage

special ceremony.

The Bishop stressed that the abbey belonged to the people of Kilkenny. He praised its custodians, the Dominican Order, who had looked after it since 1225, withstanding “dungeon, fire, and sword” in the process. “The renovations have transformed the abbey”, he declared, “and ensured that

it will be with us for at least the next 750 years.”

In addition to structural work on the building, all the stained glass windows were dismantled and repaired. In 1993, the open space in front of the church entrance was paved with Wexford brick. In the same year, the restored church bells rang out, ushering in a

new era for the Dominicans and echoing the abbey’s troubled, heroic past.

Any first time visitor to Kilkenny would do well to take a walk around the abbey and savour this part of the City’s- and Ireland’s- heritage.

You can see the ancient tower, which now serves as the organ loft. This is reputed to be older

Beautiful Christmas scene in stained glass at Black Abbey

than the church itself.

The new altar and sanctuary, lovingly restored to their former glory, have been described as “heavenly” and “out of this world” by tourists. An image of the Trinity sculptured in alabaster occupies pride of place within the abbey. It dates from 1264.

This piece was hidden in one of the old walls throughout the repressive eras of Henry VIII, Cromwell, and the Penal Laws.

Another significant feature is the famous Rosary Window, the largest of its kind in Ireland. It has 10,000 pieces of glass and was repaired in 1994 at a cost of £66,000. A banner from the days of the great Confederation of Kilkenny is also on display, recalling the city’s proudest moments. The seven-hundredweight bell is worth a look. A number of old chalices can also be seen.

Some are centuries old.

An oaken statue of a Dominican, carved during penal times under cover of darkness, is in the Priory museum, and a fourteenth-century limestone figure of St Catherine of Alexandria has been photographed thousands of times.

It is bordered by incised floriated patterns and is considered a remarkable work of art.

To the left of the main entrance to the abbey is a line of stone monuments and other antiquities, some of which date to Norman times. There are also the coffins of Norman Lords, unearthed during excavations in 1851.

So when you visit the Black abbey, bring a camera as well as a rosary beads!

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Culture nights

Involvement essen join together for cu Photos by Pat Shortall Kilkenny is now recognised as one of the ‘go to’ places in Ireland. Apart from her castle, cathedrals and festivals, Kilkenny is also known for her many lane ways.

These lane ways are a reminder to all who walk them of the incredible legacy the slipways hold. When one thinks of the people, and the businesses that occupied these narrow walkways it evokes a truly wonderful history.

Alas, many of the lane ways no longer exist. But for those that remain, they are a constant reminder of our rich heritage.

Today we concentrate on Colliers Lane. And in particular The Kilkenny Involvement Centre.

The centre is a warm, welcoming place where people with mental health difficulties can go to socialise, relax and simply have fun. Their vision is to have a space where people who have, or have had, mental health difficulties,

their families or friends, can drop in at specified times to meet other people who are on their recovery journey.

The philosophy is recovery focused.

Over the last four weeks, The Kilkenny Observer attended various culture night sessions at the venue which included song, music, poetry and a series of history talks.

The series of entertainment was a joint venture between The Involvement Centre and Kilkenny County Council.

David Dwyer who is manager

at the centre said he was delighted with the outcome.

“To be honest, we weren't sure what way it would go but we are thrilled that there was such a positive response.

Through some interaction with member of the community, we succeeded in presenting an array of music, song and poetry.

David went on to thank Lake Productions, JB’s Kitchen session, and the cast of a Seamus Heaney documentary made up of members and volunteers from The Involvement Centre. The Kilkenny Saturday walkers group also participated with a series of history talks about Kilkenny which included such topics as Lady Desart, Kilkenny in 1914, Robert Cane and place names of Kilkenny.

The night was complemented by the music and songs of Kilkenny entertainer Adrian Cashin.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 30th August 2024

News

How to live like a king / queen on a student budget Here are the credit union's tried-and-tested tips to make that student budget stretch beyond the necessities!

Budget like a pro Most students have no student budget or financial plan! We know there’s nothing remotely interesting or exciting about budgeting, but you can’t ignore the advantages.

Put just one hour aside of your hectic social life and focus on the task. You can thank us later when you’ve enough extra cash to sip on a cocktail or craft beer instead of making do with what you’re sure can double as drain cleaner.

Write down all sources of money coming in for the month. Next, write down all money going out, starting with the substantial items like rent, travel, books and utility bills. Then look at the money you spend on coffees, groceries, eating out, social life and more. Once you have everything written down, you can see clearly where you can cut back, spend less and have a little extra at the end of the month. Shop around for your utilities and subscriptions; many phone and subscription services provide free trials and half-price contracts, while mobile phone companies have loyalty deals. It's important to cancel subscriptions you are

no longer using, as they all add up.

Learn how to cook Why spend all of your student budget on take-aways and college restaurants? You’ll quickly find out you won’t have much change left for anything else. Of course, you could opt to live on a diet of frozen pizza and instant noodles, but this will soon have you looking and feeling malnourished. You’ll be coughing up (excuse the pun) for expensive vitamins and supplements, especially during busier times or exams. Instead, why not feast on your cheap yet

nutritious culinary creations?

There are tons of free, student budget-friendly, quick and easy dinner recipes on the internet. Many will focus on staple ingredients you can get cheaply in your local supermarket.

Shop like a ninja We all know the urban myth about the ultimate pennypincher who’s been banned from the local supermarket for stalking employees around the store while they discount food.

While we’re not suggesting you morph into the campus miser, there is some method

to this madness. There’s no harm doing a little asking around to find out when your local shops/supermarkets reduce their prices. If you can make an effort to shop at that time and take advantage of the discounts, you could be stocking your freezer with premium quality goods despite being on a student budget!

There are a few more hacks to saving big on your grocery bill. Always shop with a list.

Most supermarkets now will provide portable pricecheckers, never shop without one if you can! Buy for the full week. Buy staples such as pasta, rice, cereal etc. in bulk.

Don’t be fooled by two-for-one deals that will actually cost more money. Devise a rota for your housemates for laundry powder and toilet paper so the cost is spread evenly. Buy supermarket own-brand, but check out markets for fruit and veg as you can often find better quality and cheaper prices.

And never shop on an empty stomach!

Become a coupon/student discount scavenger During your first week or two on campus you will find coupons fired at you from all angles. Take them all. Take two.

You never know when they will come in handy.

Keep your eyes peeled for

coupons everywhere. Sign up for ALL loyalty cards. You will benefit from discounts, vouchers and special offers in supermarkets. Use your student card absolutely everywhere you can. Unsure whether somewhere offers a student discount? Don’t hesitate to ask!

spend a few euros on a small French press, then grab yourself a bag of affordable ground coffee beans during your weekly shop. Bring your freshly-made brew into campus in your keepcup – and do your bit for the environment while getting your caffeine fix.

Vintage King (or Queen) Many students cut spending on clothes in order to cope with costs during the college year.

There is nothing wrong with this and it’s good to see some forgoing new clothes to try and stick to a student budget. But that doesn’t mean you can’t treat yourself a little every now and again.

Vintage clothes have never been so popular, so why not take full advantage of the bargains? You can look effortlessly on-trend for a couple of euros. Flea markets and kilo sales are your best friend while in college.

Be strategic about joining clubs and socs Joining college clubs and societies (socs) is an amazing way to broaden your horizons, meet like-minded people and develop your athletic, creative or academic skills.

While it’s an important aspect of student life, if you want to be strategic about it, you can suss out the biggest and most popular clubs and socs and ensure you join up. They will usually have the biggest budgets for parties, trips and the like. You’ll have a top social life without having to delve too deep into your student budget.

If you want more detailed tips on budgeting for student life, or if you need additional financial assistance to help cope with college costs, talk to your local credit union, who’ll be more than happy to help! Unsure about why a credit union loan is better than the others? Talk to them to find out the range of benefits that come with a credit union loan!

Do NOT get a credit card We know you’re too intelligent to do this anyway while on a student budget, so we won’t labour the point.

Gourmet coffee fix for less A takeaway coffee five-daysa-week turns into a pretty expensive habit. Do your best to limit the habit. Instead,

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All aboard The Bus!

Barnstorm Theatre Company’s Autumn production 2024 Have you ever been “the new kid on the block”? Scary isn’t it? . . . . Imagine you are just ten years old and starting at a new school. At least in class there is an element of adult supervision and control. On the school bus you are on your own in a minefield of shifting allegiances, uncertain loyalties, sudden hostilities, pranks and casual cruelties, and you must learn for yourself the rules for survival and acceptance.

Barnstorm Theatre Company is proud to present its 2024 Autumn production - The Bus. Written by Maeve Ingoldsby and Barnstorm’s Artistic Director, Philip Hardy, this play is suitable for children aged 6 - 12 years.

Set aboard the school bus, the play follows the progress of the new boy as he is faced with the politics of the school bus, where he meets a myriad of characters from which he must distinguish the cool from the not so cool, nerds from dossers, the geeks from the lads. He has to learn where to sit, who to talk to and when to lie low – in short how to survive as one of the gang.

Through his eyes, we discover the mischief and mayhem of those bus journeys.

The Bus employs a highly physical style of presentation, incorporating elements of music and song, with moments of high comedy, tense confrontation and emotional truth, to create an exuberant, insightful and highly entertaining piece of children’s theatre. The play has a large cast - 7 actors drawn from all over Ireland. Together the cast will depict 17 characters in this fast paced show! Barnstorm first produced The Bus in 2002 and it is one of the company’s most

popular plays to date. As always with Barnstorm, although the play specifically reflects the child’s world, its universal theme makes it relevant to all ages.

The Bus opens in the Watergate Theatre, Kilkenny on Tuesday October 15th and runs until October 22nd. There are performances daily for schools at 10am and 12.30pm. Tickets cost €10, are on sale now from Barnstorm on (056) 7751266. The running time of the play is 65 minutes approximately.

This production was chosen as a mark of respect to Maeve Ingoldsby, who worked with Barnstorm for over a decade and passed away in 2021. She was described in the Irish Times with … the playful sense of humour of a woman who is probably Ireland's most prolific stage writer for children. As Barnstorm celebrates its 33rd year it also marks the last professional production for young audiences by the founder and Artistic Director Philip Hardy. Originally from Dublin, Philip returned to his mother’s hometown Inistioge in 1991. The theatre was still in his blood, and it was during this time that he laid the foundation for Barnstorm Theatre Company. Philip’s dream was to create theatre that resonated with diverse audiences. Barnstorm produces for children, young people, as well as communities. The company hosts youth theatre groups, where young members explore and create their own theatrical experiences. Additionally, they offer a similar opportunity to adults through the Adult Theatre Club, which has given rise to the Barn Owl Players in Kilkenny and extend the work with schools

through our Participation and Education programme.

In over 33 years he created professional work for young people when it didn’t exist yet in Ireland using the power of storytelling; the magic that unfolds when writers, actors, design teams, and production crews come together with a specific audience in mind. As an actor himself, he transitioned into directing. His early experience as Assistant Director on the world premiere of Dancing with Lughnasa at the Abbey Theatre marked the beginning of modern theatre.

Through Barnstorm, there is a space where theatre transcends age, connects communities, and sparks conversations. Committed to inclusive and impactful theatre experiences and most of all the craft of theatre making. Over the course of more than three decades, Barnstorm’s work has connected with nearly a million people – young, old, near and far – from the Barn to Australia and back. Barnstorm is currently recruiting for a new Artistic Director; responsible for the artistic vision and ambassador of Barnstorm in the coming years.

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Kilkenny Steiner School in the eyes of a parent Medb Lambert Kilkenny Steiner School is a small (and very lovely) school set in the heart of the countryside just south of Callan in Co. Kilkenny.

The first time I visited the school, back in 2016 I was struck by the tranquillity of the setting and the gentleness that seemed to settle over it. The children came up and spoke to me, a visitor, an adult - and greeted me with confidence and openness - like an equal. I spoke to other parents, who all felt at home there.

They were comfortable, and engaged with school life - it seemed to be a shared space, a community. I was reassured that my daughter would be in safe hands – that Steiner Waldorf education would take her gently through her childhood, that she would be met as a human, and would in turn meet each milestone when she was ready. I heard all this and we decided that we would like our children to go to such a place. The question for us, as for most parents in the school, is that as KSS does not receive state funding it is a cooperative school and requires monthly contributions towards the daily running costs for each child. My husband and I decided that this was worth it for the benefits that Steiner Waldorf Education could bring.

In Steiner schools, they don’t sit at desks until they are about seven – when they are starting first class. Up until then their

classroom is a less formal environment where the head, heart and hands are given a balanced attention. There is an enormous and amazing sandpit, (sometimes with up to 15 languages being spoken in it); there are woods nearby, an enormous polytunnel for gardening classes, there are apple trees. At harvest time the children are involved in picking, preparing and juicing (and drinking the delicious juice of course). There is no school uniform, just waterproofs and wellies, as they spend lots of time outdoors - “There’s no such thing as ‘bad’ weather, just bad clothes”.

This week, my eldest daughter started at a mainstream secondary school. She wore a uniform for the first time, had to grapple with the bus, the timetables, a much larger school, a faster pace, being in an urban environment, a longer day, a greater workload, more homework, and too many more things to list. But she was ready for it. The head, heart and hands approach moulded her into a person who is self-motivated, curious, creative and interested.

We have no regrets.

Meanwhile, my younger daughter went into school today on her first day back, very excited to return to that tranquil place with a welcoming classroom, the apple trees and the giant multilingual sandpit.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 30th August 2024

Available places open for Carlow College, St Patrick’s this September

Carlow College, St Patrick’s has opened additional places for four undergraduate courses for Leaving Cert, Further Education and Mature students who are still considering their options for third level study in 2024.

The courses now offered on CAO Available Places are: B.A. in Applied Social Studies (Professional Social Care): a CORU approved degree designed to prepare students for professional Social Care Work.

B.A. (Hons) in Arts & Humanities: a flexible, three-year, multidisciplinary degree at Level 8, offering a wide variety of subjects within six pathways: Psychology; English & the Creative imagination; History; Philosophy; Theology ; and, Politics & Society.

B.A. (Hons) in English & History: an exciting and challenging degree, where students specialize in the English language and its literature, and

immerse themselves in the history of Ireland, Europe and the wider world.

B.A. (Hons) in Psychology: a 3-year, PSI accredited programme designed to help you explore how the brain works and help you make sense of the human impact on the world in which we live.

Dr Margaret Murphy, Vice President for Academic Affairs and Registrar at Carlow College stated: "We are excited to announce additional places available for Leaving Cert, Further Education, and Mature students in several of our most sought-after programmes. Whether students are reconsidering their current offers or have not yet applied, there is still an opportunity to secure a place in one of our high-quality degree programmes. At Carlow College, students join a close-knit, inclusive community where we prioritize personalized support, ensuring each student feels welcomed, supported, and set up for success throughout their educational journey."

The CAO Available Places facility opened on the CAO website on Thursday, 29th August 2024.

See www.carlowcollege.ie/cao for full details.

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10 Ways to learn how to learn If you want to learn new ideas, concepts, or abilities, you must make the most of your efforts by knowing the most effective learning techniques. If you’re like most people, you have a limited amount of time, therefore it’s critical to maximise that time for learning.

However, learning speed is not the only consideration.

It’s crucial to have the ability to retrieve knowledge from memory, apply it later, and do it successfully in a range of scenarios.

It takes time to develop effective learning skills, but by using a couple of these strategies on a regular basis, you can be sure to maximise your study time.

1. Look for Techniques to Improve Your Memory There are several different methods for improving your memory. Basic advice like sharpening your attention, avoiding cramming, and planning your study time are wonderful places to start, but there are additional psychological insights that may significantly boost your learning skills: • Regular physical activity • Socialising with others

2. Always Keep Learning New Things Simply continuing to study is one foolproof approach to improving as a learner. The brain is capable of neurogenesis - the growth of new brain cells - however, if someone doesn’t put any repetitive effort into learning, a lot of these cells will eventually perish. They are kept alive by learning new information.

The term ‘use-it-or-lose-it’ requires a mental process called ‘pruning’. In pruning, certain brain connections are preserved while others are removed. By practising and using your newfound knowledge, there is a higher chance of retaining that information.

• Getting enough rest • Getting rid of distractions to help concentration • Putting material in order to make it simpler to recall • Use elaborative rehearsal; taking time to explain anything new to yourself in your own words • Using images, graphs, and charts as visual aids • Speaking aloud while you read the material you’re learning

3. Use a Variety of Learning Techniques Find a technique to practice the material verbally, visually and audibly rather than merely focusing on one method of learning.

When learning a new language for example, try a variety of strategies, such as listening to language examples, reading written language, practicing with a friend, and taking your own notes.

Research has found that taking notes on paper can help bind information into your memory more effectively than digital note-taking.

4. Teach What You Are Learning Put the material into your own words first. By itself, this procedure aids in retaining new information.

Find a means to share what you’ve learnt; publishing a blog entry, starting a podcast, or taking part in a conversation with others.

5. Build on Previous Learning Relational learning involves relating new information to things that you already know.

When learning a new language, for instance, you could relate the vocabulary and grammar to what you already know about other languages you speak.

6. Gain Practical Experience Actually putting new knowledge and skills into practice can be one of the best ways to improve learning.

If it involves an athletic ability or sport, practice it

frequently. Practice speaking a language with a partner and immerse yourself in language-learning activities.

To hone your abilities, watch foreign-language films and start talking with native speakers.

7. Don’t Be Afraid to Make Mistakes According to research, learning results might be amplified by making mistakes. One study found that making mistakes that were close to the right answer through trial and error was actually beneficial for learning.

Another research discovered that learning might benefit from mistakes that are followed by corrective feedback. Spend some time fixing the error and considering how you came up with the incorrect response. This approach can improve your critical thinking abilities and increase your adaptability in learning scenarios when it may be necessary to modify your viewpoint.

8. Use Distributed Practice Try a quick, concentrated session, followed by a break,

rather than trying to pack all of your information into a few extended study sessions.

After a pause, you should return and review your prior knowledge while expanding it to new information.

9. Take Exams By taking exams, you can improve your memory of what you’ve learnt. This shows that spending time recalling information from memory enhances longterm memory This retrieval technique increases the likelihood that you will be able to memorise that information later on.

10. Stop Multitasking It was long believed that multitaskers had an advantage over those who could not multitask. However, current research indicates that doing so not only affects productivity but also impedes attention and understanding.

Focus your attention on the subject at hand and keep working on that topic for a certain length of time.

Investigate learning methods that have been proven to be successful if you want to learn how to learn.

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TRISH MAHER - U13 CAMOGIE CUP On Sunday the 25th of August, Tullaroan Camogie Club hosted There were eight teams of 17 girls per team who lined out for this competitive U13 camogie tournament at the GAA grounds, Tullaroan.

John Lockes Camogie Club, Callan - Winners of the Trish Maher Memorial Tournament Cup Final

• Tullaroan • Callan • St Brigid's, Ballycallan • St. Anne's (Johnstown/Galmoy/Crosspatrick) • Lisdowney • Mooncoin • Danesfort • Urlingford A tough battle was fought by all teams to the bitter end.

Catherine, Tom and the Maher family would like to thank all the participating teams and their families.

Congratulations to St Anne's Camogie Club who won the Shield Final having played some fantastic camogie and eventually defeating a strong Mooncoin side in the final.

Also congratulations to John Locke's Camogie Club, Callan who won the Cup Final with a hard fought match against a strong Emeralds side. The Callan girls got to the final to meet local rivals St. Brigid’s. It was a tough battle to the final whistle and the John Locke's girls came out with a win.

The Maher Family would like to take this opportunity to especially thank the referees and the umpires for an excellent job. Thanks also to the Tullaroan Hurling Club for the use

of the pitch on the day, the sponsors and to the supporters of Tullaroan Camogie Club.

A fantastic day was had by all. A very special day that could not have happened without the help of so many

on the day, so thank you to everyone who helped out.

We are all looking forward to this event again next year.

Date to be confirmed.

L-R Richie Holland, Conor Everard, Vivianne Holmes and Eamon Delaney

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& SHIELD MEMORIAL TOURNAMENT the Trish Maher Memorial Tournament for U13 camogie teams

St Annes Camogie Club - Winners of the Trish Maher Memorial Tournament Shield Final

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 30th August 2024

Duiske Players Drama Group

Duiske Players Drama Group to Stage Steel Magnolias The well respected and much loved Duiske Players Drama Group are currently in rehearsals for this year’s production of Robert Harling’s “Steel Magnolias”, which takes place on Thursday-Saturday, September 5th-7th under the capable direction of group stalwart Peter Prendergast.

Last year Peter directed the groups box office hit production of the much loved comedy “Drinking Habits” by Tom Smith and previously Frank Vickery’s ‘A Kiss on The Bottom’ and he also directed of ‘Lovers At Versailles’ by Bernard Farrell in 2017. As well as his directorial CV, Peter has appeared in many of the plays over the years including , ‘Arsenic & Old Lace’, ‘The Cripple of Inishmaan’, ‘Sive’, ‘Not Now Darling’, ‘The Field’ and our 2019 production of ‘Sharon’s Grave’.

Set in a beauty salon in Chinquapin, Louisiana, the play is set around the lives and friendships of six Southern women who gather regularly at the salon to gossip, share stories, and support each other through life's ups and downs. The main characters include Truvy Jones, the outspoken and kind-hearted owner of the salon; Annelle, a shy and insecure newcomer to town who becomes Truvy's assistant; Shelby a young and Back Row Standing-L to R:) Peter Prendergast (Director), Caroline Cotter (Annelle), Brid Moloney (Truvy), Edel Bolger (M’Lynn), Rebecca Murphy (Shelby), spirited Front Row Seated-L to R: Stas Bolger (Clairee), Lily Brennan (Ouiser) bride-to-be with diabetes; M'Lynn, Group Chairperson, of work has gone into this play with Shelby's Lily Brennan added the director, cast and crew working protective yet ‘we are confident that tirelessly in pursuit of perfection loving mother; all those who attend and we look forward to hearing the Clairee, a leave the hall feeling audiences reaction to our efforts’. wealthy widow uplifted and heartily The group boasts great talent in Robert Harling, with a sharp wit entertained by this play. terms of stage management and author of Steel and a generous She continued ‘An amount set design and again this year Magnolias spirit; and Ouiser , Eamonn Doherty, Liz O’ Neill and a grumpy yet lovable Maria Espinosa are in charge of curmudgeon. Through their creating the set, set dressing and witty banter and unwavering stage management. Feekie O’ support for one another, they Brien will look after the lights and navigate the joys and sorrows of Adrian Kavanagh will operate the life, showcasing the strength and soundscape. Mary Meaney will be delicate beauty that lies within looking after continuity and Bonnie them, akin to the enduring nature Prendergast, Nancy Moloney, of steel wrapped in the softness of Marian Kielthy, Liz Whelan & magnolia blossoms.

Edward Hayden will lead the front The magnolias themselves are of house along with other members played by Rebecca Murphy, Brid and friends of the Duiske Players Moloney, Edel Bolger, Stas Bolger, Drama Group. The group would like Caroline Cotter and Lily Brennan. to thank local hairdressing royalty Speaking last week at the launch of Georgina Foley (Hair by Georgina) the performance schedule director and Evelyn Farrell (Ryanhair) for all Peter Prendergast commented ‘ their support and encouragement This has been a wonderful play to and for helping Truvy and Annelle work on, and it really encapsulates turn into hairdressers! all that is good about an ensemble The play will take place in The in theatre-the well written text Abbey Hall in Graignamanagh at and the delicate and humorous 8pm night on Thursday-Saturday, storylines have given myself and The Star studded origional cast of Steel September 5th-7th. Tickets are Magnolias included Sally Field, Dolly the cast much to get our teeth into, €12. Seating is unrestricted and Parton, Shirley McLaine ,Daryl Hannah, Susan Harling, sister of author Robert died from diabetes complications in 1985. The and I am sure that the results of is allocated on a first come, first Olympia Dukakis and Julia Roberts author turned the experience into the iconic stage play Steel Magnolias our labours will be enjoyed by all.’ . served basis.

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Food & Drink

Dine Me Come

With

Salmon and broccoli pasta

Prep: 25 mins - 35 mins Cook: 30 mins Serves: 4 Warm up as the cold nights set in with this glorious hotpot, with slowcooked pork cooked in cider and sage. It’s topped with a crispy layer of potatoes.

Ingredients • 250g penne • 300g broccoli, cut into large florets • 25g butter • 25g plain flour • 600ml milk • 100g mascarpone • 8 sundried tomatoes (preserved in olive oil), drained and thickly sliced • 2 tbsp small capers (optional) rinsed to remove excess salt or vinegar • 8 anchovy fillets, halved (optional) • 10 large fresh basil leaves, roughly torn • 4 fresh skinless salmon fillets • 50g mature cheddar, finely grated STEP 1 Preheat the oven to 190C/gas 5/fan 170C and get out an ovenproof dish (measuring 20 by 30cm, and about

5cm deep). Meanwhile, put a large pan of water on to boil for the pasta.

When it is boiling rapidly, tip in the pasta with a generous sprinkling of salt. Give it a stir, return to the boil and cook for 6 minutes. Add the broccoli, then return the water to the boil and cook for 4 minutes more, until the broccoli is on the firm side of just tender. Drain well.

Tuna, avocado and quinoa salad Prep: 5 mins Cook: 20 mins Serves: 2

A high protein meal with healthy fats from the avocado. This is the perfect salad to revive you after a morning workout and keep you going ‘til dinner Ingredients • 100g quinoa • 3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil • juice 1 lemon • ½ tbsp white wine vinegar • 120g can tuna, drained • 1 avocado, stoned, peeled and cut into chunks • 200g cherry tomatoes on the vine, halved • 50g feta, crumbled • 50g baby spinach

• 2 tbsp mixed seeds, toasted

Method STEP 1 Rinse the quinoa under cold water. Tip into a saucepan, cover with water and bring to the boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for 15 mins until the grains have swollen but still have some bite.

Drain, then transfer to a bowl to cool slightly.

STEP 2 Meanwhile, in a jug, combine the oil, lemon juice and vinegar with some seasoning.

STEP 3 Once the quinoa has cooled, mix with the dressing and all the remaining ingredients and season. Divide between plates or lunchboxes.

STEP 2 While the pasta is cooking, put the butter, flour and milk in a large pan and heat, whisking or stirring continuously, until it thickens to make a smooth sauce. Remove from the heat and stir in the mascarpone, sun-dried tomatoes, capers (if using), anchovies (if using) and basil, then add the

pasta and broccoli and season well.

STEP 3 Halve the salmon fillets widthways (you will see that there is an obvious divide on each fillet) then place the pieces in a single layer on the base of the ovenproof dish.

Spoon the broccoli mixture on

top, then scatter with the grated cheddar. (You can chill this for up to 4 hours if you want to get ahead.)

STEP 4 Bake for 30 minutes until the mixture is just starting to bubble round the edges and the mixture is pale golden – don’t let it go too dark or the fish will overcook.

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Advertisement Advertisement TV & Streaming

The Amazon Prime Video binge!

The English (2022) Gripping Western drama series The English stars Emily Blunt and Chaske Spencer [main picture]as an unlikely duo traveling across a treacherous landscape. The first episode of the miniseries presents some terrible characters and reveals a bit of what motivates both protagonists -- Blunt’s aristocratic Englishwoman and Spencer’s Pawnee ex-cavalry scout -- to continue in the face of danger. Gorgeous visuals and superb acting make The English worth a binge.

As We See It (2022) A newer entry to Prime Video, As We See It earns a spot among its best shows. Starring three actors who identify as autistic, this sincere series follows young adults on the autism spectrum as they navigate jobs, make friends and find love. Neurotypical actors usually play autistic characters on screen, so the casting sets this one apart.

It’s also heartfelt, funny and poignant, with well- rounded characters you’ll want to root for. Ihis needs to be your next watch.

My Lady Jane (2024- ) Lady Jane Grey, the Queen of England for just nine days in 1553, is the subject of this Prime Video series [pictured].

The show doesn’t stick closely to the events of her life, weaving in fantasy elements like humans who can turn into animals and imagining a world where she met a fate other than execution. Based

on a book of the same name and blending comedy, action, romance and more, My Lady Jane is a wild, enjoyable ride you won’t find in a history book.

I’m A Virgo (2023- ) Boots Riley (Sorry To Bother You) created this surreal series about Cootie (Jharrel Jerome), a 13- foot-tall Black man who leaves home for the first time at 19. The gentle giant from Oakland, California, experiences friendship, love and more milestones in this coming-of-age story, which brings humour, social commentary and undeniable originality to the small screen.

The Lord Of The Rings: The Rings Of Power (2022) Haven’t watched Prime Video’s buzzy, wildly expensive fantasy series yet? The Rings of Power brings incredible visuals, a sprawling cast and a sense of adventure to the streaming service. It’s set thousands of years before The Lord of the Rings, and in part follows a young version of the character Galadriel, who’s played by Morfydd Clark.

The Legend Of Vox Machina (2022- ) Buckle up for a new animated series that centres on a group of boisterous, belching misfits called Vox Machina. Based on Dungeons & Dragons web series Critical Role (you don’t have to be familiar with that to enjoy this show), The Legend Of Vox Machina sees its protagonists go from being broke bar-hoppers to ac-

cepting a mission to stop evil brewing in Exandria. We’re further introduced to the characters in a musical number that occurs about halfway through the first episode.

That’s right, musical number.

You’ll be down for every element this show throws at you.

Why would anyone choose these misfits to fight for the kingdom? “Well... they do have a bear,” one royal decision-maker concedes.

The Devil’s Hour (2022-) The Devil’s Hour sets up an intriguing mystery: Why is a woman, Lucy, waking up at 3:33 a.m. each night, and why does her eight-year-old son, Isaac, seem oddly emotionless? Starring Jessica Raine (Call the Midwife) as Lucy, Nikesh Patel (Starstruck) as a kind detective and Peter Capaldi (Doctor Who) as a suspicious character, the Devil’s Hour is a twisty series that eventually delivers satisfying answers. A bonus? Two more seasons are on the way.

Dead Ringers (2023) Oscar winner Rachel Weisz plays not one, but two main characters in Dead Ringers, Prime Video’s version of David Cronenberg’s 1988 psychological thriller. The darkly comedic series follows identical twin doctors pursuing their goal of opening a birthing and research center.

Spend some time with these unconventional sisters, you’ll want to see the whole thing through.

Homecoming (2018)

ties as an upper-class Jewish American housewife. With impressive visuals, warmth and zingers, The Marvelous Mrs Maisel is the full package.

Season 2 of Homecoming didn’t quite find its feet, but Season 1 hit the ground running.

Julia Roberts stars in this psychological thriller about an army rehabilitation facility run by questionable owners.

Using an effective, mysterybuilding narrative that covers two timelines, Homecoming is high on tension and paranoia as it reveals what the facility’s true purpose is.

Fun fact: The series uses the actual scores of movies from Alfred Hitchcock, Stanley Kubrick and more.

tential for those looking for deep material.

Undone (2019-) This unique series uses the Rotoscoping animation technique to tell the story of a young woman who, after suffering a near-fatal car accident, discovers she can manipulate time. Intriguing, right?

It gets better: Bob Odenkirk plays Alma’s dead father, who enlists her help in investigating his murder. Bending both time and space, Undone is surreal and beautifully exis-

The Marvelous Mrs Maisel (2017-2023) A ‘50s housewife who becomes a standup comic?

This brilliant series from Gilmore Girls creator Amy Sherman-Palladino is filled with sparkling performances from Rachel Brosnahan and Alex Borstein, with dialogue to match.

Set in a vibrant and changing New York, our delightful heroine moonlights as a comedian, while doing her du-

A League of Their Own (2022) Inspired by the 1992 film of the same name and introduces new characters portrayed by Abbi Jacobson, D’Arcy Carden and others.

In the comedy-drama’s first episode, women try out for the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League in the ‘40s.

The show explores themes of race and sexuality and offers a satisfying period setting and compelling characters.

Fallout (2024-) Prime Video’s video game adaptation is an entertaining postapocalyptic adventure you shouldn’t leave sitting in a vault. The series follows three different characters occupying the same wasteland.

One is Lucy (Ella Purnell), who wanders in search of her kidnapped father and feels the need to invoke the Golden Rule to a cruel posthuman Ghoul (Walton Goggins). Meanwhile, an eager Maximus (Aaron Moten) gets his big break as a squire in the Brotherhood of Steel. It’s an unpredictable series with humour and gore. Don’t let long episode runtimes deter you from exploring Fallout.

Paper Girls (2022) The first episode of Paper Girls, a sci-fi TV series based on popular comics by Brian K. Vaughan and Cliff Chiang, brings together four kids riding bikes on their paper delivery routes in 1988. That may sound like a sci-fi-er you’ve binged already, (yep, Netflix’s hit Stranger Things), Prime Video’s show stands on its own.

Follow along as the girls travel through time, navigate powerful adversaries and learn more about themselves.

Another reason to watch? Comedian Ali Wong is also part of the cast.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 30th August 2024

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 30th August 2024

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Sport

Kilkenny Sport Focus Michael O’Leary

Rás na mBan 2024

Photo Credit:Vicky Comerford Next week will see the return of one of the highlights of the year in Kilkenny, The Rás na mBan. The Rás na mBan begins next Wednesday 4th September, before concluding outside Kilkenny Castle on Sunday week 8th September.

The race began in 2006, and it was moved to Kilkenny in 2016 where it has remained since.

One of the star attractions of this years Rás will be the appearance of recent Olympian Mia Griffin, who was twice a stage winner last year in both

Callan and Tramore. Mia had a very positive experience in Paris, as she was part of The Ireland Team that set a National Record in The Womens Team Pursuit as they finished 9th overall.

It will be most welcoming for The Glenmore native to be competing on home territory, particularly after having such a successful Rás last year.

As mentioned, Mia won the first stage in Callan last year and the first stage again this year will be from Kilkenny to Callan over 74.2KM. Leaving Kilkenny, the riders will pass through Danesfort, Stoneyford, Knocktopher, Newmarket, Kilmaganny and Windgap before finishing in Callan.

When the cyclists arrive into Callan, they will do two laps of a 13KM finishing circuit where the spectators at the finishing line will have three chances to see the riders.

Onto stage 2 on Thursday September 5th, with a 105KM route taking the riders from Portlaoise to Mountrath

At the announcement of Rás na mBan in Kilkenny 2024 were from left to right Cathaoirleach Kilkenny Co Council Cllr. Michael McCarthy_ Team Ireland Olympic Cyclist Mia Griffin_ Valerie Considine, Race Director

passing by Stradbally which is home to Electric Picnic that took place recently.

Stage 3 on Friday September 6th will see the riders undergo a 104KM route from Kilkenny

to Gorey passing through Gowran, Goresbridge and onto Borris and Ballymurphy in Co. Carlow, before heading into Co. Wexford where the riders will finish in Gorey.

Stage 4 on Saturday September 7th is a 101KM stage from Kilkenny to The Rower passing through Kells, Dunnamaggin, Knocktopher, Jerpoint Abbey, Thomastown and Inistioge before passing through The Rower.

However, when the cyclists pass through The Rower they still have 45KM ahead of them to negotiate.

They will move on to Grai-

guenamanagh and Thomastown before returning to The Rower via Inistioge to finish the stage.

Finally, the final day of action on Sunday 8th September will have two seperate stages in Kilkenny with the 2.5KM Time Trial followed by 5 circuit laps to finish The Rás at The Parade.

It promises to be another thrilling spectacle in another top class International field, as Irelands top International riders will compete along with the top local riders and competitors from around the world.

Kilkenny County Council nominates three community groups for 2024 IPB Pride of Place Awards Kilkenny County Council have nominated three community groups for the IPB Pride of Place Awards for 2024.

The Pride of Place Judging Panel will be in Kilkenny on Thursday 29th and Friday 30th August 2024, to assess the community projects.

Ferrybank Community Group have been nominated under the Community Wellbeing Initiative Category.

The group will present a variety of projects completed by the Men’s Shed and will have the opportunity to meet the judges at the Hillsfield Centre, followed by a visit to the sensory gardens and allotments.

The Johnstown Community Group have been nominated under the Creative Communities Category.

The local community have restored a building in the heart of the village for community use. Both primary and secondary school students will demonstrate how they enhance local biodiversity in their schools, and the local heritage group will explain the restoration works undertaken at Grangefertagh, Johnstown, Co Kilkenny.

The Inistioge Community Group have been nominated

Village Square, Johnstown, Co Kilkenny

MUGA Ferrybank Co Kilkenny

Inistioge, Co Kilkenny

under the village population category. The group will provide an introduction to the village, followed by a tour of the Community Centre, a visit to the garden allotments, the local waterfall, and a tour of the Woodstock Gardens.

The Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr.

Michael McCarthy, extends his best wishes to all three nominated groups: "This is a remarkable achievement for these communities.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for their outstanding contribution within their local

communities and the positive impact this has had on the wider community. I wish them the very best of luck in the IPB Pride of Place Judging 2024.”

The winners of the IPB Pride of Place will be announced at an Awards Ceremony in November, 2024 which takes place in Monaghan. Kilkenny County Council would like to take this opportunity to congratulate everyone on their wonderful achievements and valued contributions to their communities and to wish all the nominated groups the very best of luck in the competition.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 30th August 2024

Community & GAA Notes

Kilkenny GAA clubs and Community news CLARA SENIORS MAKE HAY Ballyhale Shamrocks entered the fray in Thomastown on Saturday short a number of top class forwards, including TJ Reid, Adrian Mullen and Niall Shortall. Clara, who were short a few players themselves, recognised the opportunity and capitalised from the start. Although Shamrocks scored the first two points of the game, a James Bergin free and two efforts from play by a bang in form Joe Connolly soon had Clara in front. They were never to relinquish the lead again and two 1-2 bursts sandwiched a lone Ballyhale pointed free to put the Clara men firmly in control. Chris Bolger and Joe Connolly provided the goals and James Bergin and Paul Cody shared the four points. Another Paul Cody point and two more from Chris Bolger gave Clara a 2-10 to 1-8 lead at halftime but in truth it should have been more. They had missed a few scoreable frees and Chris Bolger’s last point of the half was a deflected penalty.

When Darragh Corcoran scored his side’s second goal with just the handle of his hurl left ten minutes into the second half it looked like a wind assisted Shamrocks team were going to come back into it. But Clara were not going to be denied on this occasion and a strong defensive spine of Shane Staunton and Matt Kenny limited the Ballyhale men to just one more point from play for the game. They did manage to get it back to three points on one more occasion but two more goals from Paul Cody and Peter Nolan in quick succession sealed their fate. Clara had stars all over the field in this one but special mention must go to Conor O Shea, who did a superb marking and tracking job on Richie Reid and really curtailed his influence here. Sean O Shea and Harry Boyle in defence as well as those players already mentioned did most to secure the two points here. Final score 4-17 to 2-17.

Team - Kevin Nolan, Sean O Shea, Shane Staunton, Harry Boyle. Martin O Connell, Matt Kenny, David Langton. Liam Ryan 0-1, Dara Glynn. Paul Cody 1-4, Conor O Shea, Joe Connolly 1-4. Conor Hoyne, Chris Bolger 1-2, 0-1p, James Bergin 0-6, 0-4f. Subs Peter Nolan 1-0, Sean Carrigan.

SENIOR CAMOGIE The Clara senior camogie team had a day to forget on Sunday when they suffered a heavy defeat to championship favourites Piltown in Piltown.

Team - Aoife Glynn, Lucy Cody, Katie Ryan, Aine McDonald.

Tamsin English, Laoise Nolan, Gráinne Glynn. Keara Ryan, Rebecca Nolan. Siobhan Treacy, Aisling Curtis, Niamh Ward.

Mary O’ Connell, Róisín Kealy, Emma Shortall.

Subs used Niamh Byrne, Lucy Boyd, Sarah Dunne. Also Aoife Treacy, Anna Walpole, Rachel Brickell, Margaret O’ Connell.

SQUADS Well done to Clara brothers Pádraic and Mícheál Meany who lined out for Kilkenny U15 and U14 teams respectively at the weekend. The U15 team suffered defeat at the hands of Tipperary in the Arrabawn final while the U14s went one better with victory over Wexford in the prestigious Tony Forristal final.

CLUB LOTTO Lotto results for 20th August, Numbers drawn - 7, 14, 25. No Jackpot winner. €30 each to Hugh Kelly, Teresa Connolly, Margaret Logue, Pam Cummins, Siobhan Curtis.

BRIDGE CLUB Clara Bridge Club will recommence playing on Monday September 9th in Connolly’s Pub, Dunbell. A friendly and sociable time will be had by all, we are seated at 7.15 and commence play at 7.30 every Monday night. Classes are available in Kilkenny Bridge Centre on Tuesday evenings, Wednesday mornings and Thursday evenings.

Clara would love to welcome new members, please contact Catherine at 086-8421023 for further information.

O’ LOUGHLIN GAELS SENIOR HURLERS WIN O’Loughlin Gaels continued their successful run in the St. Canice’s Credit Union Senior Hurling League when they defeated Erin’s Own of Castlecomer by 2-33 to 1-8 in Páirc Lachtain Freshford on Saturday last. The next game is on Saturday 31st August in John Locke Park, Callan at 2pm against Graig Ballycallan.

CAMOGIE ACTION O’Loughlin Gaels camogie teams have a busy week of games with the Under 12’s, Under 14’s, Juniors and Intermediates all in action. The Intermediates play their first League/Championship game against Ballyhale on Sunday September 1st in St. John’s Park at 11am. All support welcome.

JUNIOR E’S REACH COUNTY FINAL Congratulations to O’Loughlin Gaels Junior E team on reaching the JJ Kavanagh and Sons County Final. They had a comprehensive win over Piltown in the semi-final in John Locke Park, Callan last Sunday when they win by 2-23 to 1-11.

Beginning with wind advantage they settled quickly into their stride and hit twelve points from nine different scorers. Piltown responded with a goal and a point but O’Loughlins had a goal of their own from Aaron Maher and led by 1-13 to 1-3 at the interval. They continued to dominate after the break and a second goal from Fionn Lawlor added to some excellent point scoring ensured a win and a place in the County Final.

Team and Scorers were: Michael Lambert, Michael Twomey,

O’Loughlin Gaels JJ Cahill with the Man of the Match award he received at the Tony Forristal Tournament.

Gavin Mahony, Jack Kearns, Peter Mc Namara, Alan Geoghegan (0-1), Eoin Bennett(0-1), Mark Croughan, CJ Mc Chemceau (0-1), Michael Butler (0-1) , Luke Quigley, Aaron Maher (1-4), Joe Bolger (0-2), Shane Maher (0-9, 0-3 frees), Fionn Lawlor (12) . Subs: Kevin Rowe (0-1), Ben Tyrrell (0-1), Kieran Delaney, Frank Noukeu , CJ Poyntz.

MAN OF THE MATCH AWARD Congratulations to the U14 (Kilkenny) panel and mentors on a great win in the Tony Forristal Cup Final over a strong Wexford side last weekend.

Congratulations also to O’Loughlin Gaels Lucas Duggan Whites who was on the panel and to JJ Cahill on winning the Cup Final Man of the Match award. Well done!

CLUB LOTTO There was no winner of the O’Loughlin Gaels club lotto dated August 20th. Numbers drawn 1, 8, 12, 17 Bonus 3. Play now at www.oloughlingaels.com/lotto Promotors draw: 1. Kay O’Halloran c/o Ml O’Halloran. 2.

Eugene Phelan c/o P Dowling.

6. Eileen and Ben c/o E Kinchella. 7. Fran Barry c/o Esther Maher. 8. Claire O’Dwyer c/o Online. 9. Linda Murphy c/o Online. 10. Clare McGuinness c/o Online. Thank you for your continued support.

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

FRESHFORD

RACE NIGHT St Lachtains annual race night took place a few weeks earlier this year when it was held on Friday evening last in the Kilkenny track. There was a good attendance on the night.

The committee would like to thank all those who supported the event or helped out in any way to make it a successful night.

DEATH The death occurred last week of Stephen Dunne Snr. late of Tifeaghna, Freshford . Although advanced in years his death caused widespread sorrow and regret. A quiet and good living gentleman he was widely known and respected in the area.

His funeral mass took place in St. Fiacres Church, Clontubrid followed by burial in Tifeaghna Cemetery. He is mourned by his wife Mona, son Stephen, daughters Fiona, Sarah Ann and Monica, sons in law, daughter in law, grandchildren and extended family to whom deepest sympathy is extended.

LEAVING CERT Congratulations to all the local boys and girls who got their leaving Certificate results last week in various schools throughout the surrounding areas with many going forward to third level college. They are wished all the very best in the next stage of their education or careers.

BINGO Weekly bingo sessions started back up in Freshford Community Hall recently after a lapse of over 20 years. The weekly game will be held each Friday evening at 8pm with some good prize money and a raffle each week. All proceeds will go to the Irish Wheelchair association. Please come out and support this weekly fundraiser. Tell your friends and spread the word around.

CAMOGIE Four girls from the local St.Lachtains club took part in the U14 Academny Blitz at the weekend. Well done to Lucy Caoimhe Eimear and Faith.

COMMUNITY MARKET Freshford Community Cafe launched its Community market recently and it is held in the Alley each Saturday from 10am – 1pm selling fresh vegetables, fruit, flowers etc, all local support would be greatly appreciated. New stalls would be very welcome and anyone interested in taking a stall can contact any member of the Committee THE LOOP CAFE The Loop café is open each day from Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to 4pm. with some lovely treats and food on offer at a very reasonable price. This is a great addition to the village and people are asked to support local business. So why not meet your friends there for a cupa and a chat.

IONAD LACHTAIN St St.Lachtains Church Museum and Arts Centre is open every Saturday and Sunday from 11.30 am to 4.30pm.

SOCCER NEWS Freshford Town soccer club are getting ready for the new season which will start at the end of this month. New members are most welcome. Registration is now open online and the Club are asking that you register as soon as possible to allow them sufficient time to put teams together. They are looking for volunteers also and anyone interested in coaching or helping out should contact the committee the number of teams entered in the league will depend on registration numbers and sufficient level of coaches. For any queries you can reach them on their social media pages Facebook/Instagram or contact a member of the Committee. The following is list for underage teams Academy boys and girls born in 2018 2019 and 2020 U8s – Boys and girls born in 2017. U9s – Boys and girls born 2016. U10s – boys and girls born 2015. U11s – Byes and girls born 2014. U12s – boys and girls born 2013. U13s – boys and girls born 2012. U14s – boys and girls born 2011. U15s – boys and girls born 2010. U16s – boys born 2009. U18 – boys born 2008, 2007. Also Junior men.

SPLIT THE POT Freshford Split the pot winner Tuesday 27th August JAMES

DAWSON 133.00.Euro TRAD MUSIC Lisdowney Traditional music group resumes on 15th September at 7pm in Community Hall Lisdowney. Children from six upward are all welcome.

PRAGUE HOUSE There was a dinner party at Prague House on Friday evening last with a good attendance treated to a four course meal and wined and dined for the evening. This was organised as a fundraiser for Prague House and the Committee thank all those who supported the event or donated or helped in any way.

BRIDGE Freshford Bridge Club continues every Monday at 7.30pm in Tulla Hall, Threecastles. New members are always very welcome. For further information please contact Olive on 087 9257610.

PARISH NEWS Mass is held in the Parish Church each Wednesday morning at 9.30am and each Sunday morning at 11am.with Mass in Tulla church on Saturday evenings at 7.30pm. and 11am Maas in St.Lachtains Church on Sundays.

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 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 on that number or on 087 25235 21 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.

JAMES STEPHENS GAA AND CAMOGIE CLUB SENIOR HURLING On Friday evening, in rain drenched Danesfort, the senior hurlers slipped to a disappointing 5-19 to 1-18 defeat at the hands of neighbours Bennettsbridge. Starting brightly with the aid of a strong wind James Stephens raced into a 0-06 to 0-01 lead courtesy of quality teamwork and impressive point scoring from Ed Lauhoff, Luke Scanlon, Cian Kenny (2pts) and Sean Bergin (2pts). In the 8th minute a relieving breakout of defence by Bennettsbridge prized open the Village defence with a clinical finish to the net and was quickly followed up with two more single scores to level the game at 0-6 to 1-03.

In the 18th minute, with the scores level at 0-09 to 1-06, the ‘Bridge hit the bewildered Village defenders for two game changing goals inside six minutes to take a 3-06 to 0-11 lead. Despite falling into arrears there were some stand out performances for James Stephens from Cian Kenny, Sean Bergin, Ed Lauhoff, Willie Spencer and Luke Scanlon to keep The Village in contention as the half closed with ‘The Bridge

David Condon with his prizewinner and Rugby Referee Nigel Owens at the Dualla Show

MORE WINS FOR GYLL Local lad Gyll Condon and his dad David had more success last weekend this time at the Dualla Show. They claimed first and second place in the ram class, got 1st,3rd and 4th in the ewe lamb class while Gill Vale Bentley got tapped for the interbreed champion. They also had the pleasure of meeting Nigel Owens the world famous rugby referee.

GAA St Lachtains Junior B and Junior F were both beaten last weekend. On Thursday night last the Junior F were defeated

by Mullinavat in the semi final played at Clara.

The Junior B played in the County Final at Nowlan Park on Sunday last and came out at the wrong side of a one point difference defeated by neighbours Threecastles. Threecastles started well but St.Lachtains came more into the game and after being 5-2 behind pulled back level before the break.

There was never much between the teams and they were level with minutes to go but the local lads lost out by the narrowest of margins.

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

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 30th August 2024

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Community & GAA Notes holding a 0-12 to 3-07 lead. The unfortunate loss of centre back Niall Brassil through injury after 20 minutes would be a telling factor as the game wore on. Within 3 minutes of the resumption Bennettsbridge increased their advantage by a further three points before Cian Kenny started a James Stephens short lived revival with three points and a single score from Noah Manogue. A run of four unanswered points for Bennettsbridge between the 15th and 18th minutes confirmed Bennettsbridge superiority at 3-16 to 0-17 before Eoin Guilfoyle broke through for a consolation goal for James Stephens in the 22nd minute. After that the physically stronger Bennettsbridge stretched their lead with two late goals for a comprehensive 5-19 to 1-18 victory. Supporters will be hoping for a change of fortune in the club’s 4th round fixture against Tullaroan which takes place in Canon Kearns Park on Saturday next, 31st August at 4pm.

SENIOR CAMOGIE On Sunday morning the senior camogie team lifted spirits in the club with a resounding 1-18 to 0-05 1st round championship victory over The Rower-Inistioge in Inistioge. Playing against a strong breeze, the Village girls defended bravely throughout the first half with strong leadership from county star Michelle Teehan and senior debutant Niamh Leahy in the full back line. The rock solid half back line of Hannah Scott, Niamh Deely and Aoife Cantwell repulsed many Rower-Inistioge promising attacks over the half which enabled James Stephens to take a 0-04 to 0-02 lead into the break. With wind advantage for the 2nd half the Village girls started on the front foot and with Emily Smith and Anna Doheny dominating at midfield the forwards received a plentiful supply of ball which they put to good use. An early goal from full forward Hannah Larkin inspired the lively forward line led by Emma Manogue and Rachel Leahy to give James Stephens the confidence to push for victory. Together with Sophie O’Dwyer’s contribution of 9 points (6 frees), Hannah Larkin’s 1-01, and promising debuts from Roisin Leahy (0-03) and Lucy Coomey (0-01) the Village girls ran out comfortable winners at 1-18 to 0-05 at the close of play.

On Friday evening the Junior Camogie team suffered a 4-11 to 2-09 defeat to St. Brigids in their 1st round championship fixture in Pairc Sheamuis Stiophain. Playing against a strong wind the Village girls were put under severe pressure against a talented St. Brigid’s side who took a 2-09 to 0-01 lead into the break. A 2nd half recovery by James Stephens inspired

by Sophie Meagher’s contribution of 1-03 and single scores

by Tara Maguire and Anna Bergin raised hopes in the Village camp. Continuing to narrow the gap, substitute Roisin Leahy added a further 1-02 but time ran out on a brave comeback against a determined St. Brigid’s side who held out for a 4-11 to 2-09 victory.

Meanwhile the U-14 team enjoyed a comprehensive 10-07 to 2-00 victory in their championship quarter final fixture against Kilmacow on Thursday evening.

Both U-12 teams continue their league championship at the weekend with the A team beating Erin’s Owen and the B team losing to local rivals Dicksboro in a hard fought match.

ST. FIACRE’S DAY There was a big turnout at St. Fiacre’s Well in Kilferagh, Sheastown on Sunday afternoon for the annual mass to commemorate St.Fiacre who founded a monastery at the site back in the 6th century. St.Fiacre who is recognised as the patron saint of gardeners and taxi drivers later sailed to Meaux in France, later to be renamed Saint-Fiacre, where he established a church and a hospice for travellers. In 1999, to acknowledge his love of flowers and herbs, a garden was set up in the National Stud in Kildare. He died in 670.

U-16 INTERCOUNTY HURLING TOURNEY On Saturday afternoon the club hosted the Eugene Carey Memorial Blitz competition in Pairc Sheamuis Stiophain for the U-16 county teams eliminated in the first round of the earlier Cup competition. The teams involved in the round robin competition were Clare, Dublin and Kilkenny. Having won through to the final fixture the Dublin and Kilkenny teams contested the final with the Dublin lads coming out on top on points difference. Club players Diarmuid Behan and Rory Glynn were selected on the Kilkenny (Na Cait Og) line up with Cian Darmody and Andrew Brennan included on the panel.

The tournament is held in honour of the late Eugene Carey a Mallow, Co. Cork native, who passed away following a cancer diagnosis in his early 40’s in the recent past.

COME WALKING Seamus Nugent, Kilkenny Recreation and Sports Officer, extends an open invitation to join him on a tutor led walking programme each Friday morning from 10 to 11am, from 10th September to 6th December excluding 1st November. The programme is 10 weeks long and starts from the Coffee Shop in Kilkenny Castle each Friday. For further information contact Seamus at 087 3567884 or call the office at 056 7794991.

LOTTO Last week’s numbers were 2, 3,7,26. There was no winner.

This week’s jackpot will be € 17,800. The €40 consolation winners were Kevin Hennessy, Andy Whelan, Maria Neary, Sean McDonald and Collette Nugent.

GOWRAN GOWRAN PITCH AND PUTT Another great day for our Juveniles in Clonmeltat the weekend in the National Strokeplay both Jack McShane and Harry Concannon made the 4 way 9 hole playoff for the Championship with 36 hole scores of 6 under. A play off full of drama as all four of the players involved were still tied playing the last hole. A bogey for Harry saw him eliminated as the three remaining went to sudden death on the tenth hole. Jack McShane missed his putt and Ben Kelliher from Deerpark

Club in Killarney made his putt to take the championship.

Jack finished in third overall following a countback and Harry’s score of 6 under was good enough for him to take the National U13 title having just missed out in the overall playoff.

Harry and Jack’s scores backed up by Eoghan Morrissey and Aidan OConnell in the singles to leave the Kilkenny team on 1 under in second place heading into the doubles of the U16 Inter county competition. 4 under from Harry and Eoghan and a level par round from Aidan and Jack ensured the boys stayed in second place behind winners Kerry and collect the silver medals just ahead of Carlow in third. Well done to the boys on another great days play.

GOWRAN AC Juvenile (U11-U18) training returns on Wednesdays at 7pm in the Watershed. Academy (U8-U10) training returns Sunday (1st September) at 10am in Gowran Park.

GOWRAN PARK GOLF Open Week Ladies 2 Person team event full results Monday, 12th Aug; Winners: Lottie Boote and Yvonne Hennessy 50 pts. 2nd: Helena McCormack and Rita O’Neill 48 pts. 3rd: Ashleigh Boote and Siobhan Behan 47 pts. 4th: Charlotte Boote and Kathleen Butler 45 pts. 5th: Catherine O’Driscoll and Eithne Donnelly 44 pts. Best front 9: Mary Purcell and Margaret Bower 24 pts. Best back 9: Ann Mullins and Catherine Davis 24 pts. Nearest the pin on 5th: Kate Hennessy. Nearest the pin on 10th: Elizabeth Sheehan. Longest Drive on 18: Aisling Costelloe.

2’s Club: Liz Hogan, Ann Mullins, Lottie Boote, Siobhan Behan, Kate Hennessy, Maureen Norton, Helena McCormack.

Thanks to all the ladies who played, a great day was had by everyone!

Gowran Park Junior Golf Over 110 Junior Golfers from around the country took to the fairways of Gowran Park for the annual South East Junior Open Championship, all vying to win the coveted Harry Cup. A brilliant day and the junior golfers were exceptional.

Results are as follows. Overall winner Thomas Langton 44pts, Category One H/Cap 10 or less 1st Ardagh O’ Shea 37pts, 2nd Hugh Kelly 37 pts(count back), Jude White 37 pts (count back), Category Two 11-21 H/Cap, 1st Aidan O’ Shea 43pts, 2nd Dara Leamy 41 pts, 3rd Will Bargary 39 pts (count back), Category three H/Cap 22 plus, 1st Stella Langton 42 pts, 2nd Javier Garcia 42 pts (count back), 3rd Dearbhla Convery 41 pts, Best Gross Sean Sheeran 77, front 9 Odhran Prendergast 22pts, Back 9 Dylan Kerr, 23 pts, Visitor prize Cian Leonard 39 pts, Girls prize, Ning Walsh 35pts. Well done to the Harry Cup champion, Thomas Langton and we thank all the club volunteers who helped on the day, parents, club officials, Gowran Park management, the support of the many junior programs across the country and South East, convenors and especially the Byrne family.

JUNIOR A’S WIN THRILLING COUNTY FINAL Congratulations to The Young Irelands Junior A Team who are celebrating winning their first Junior A Championship in 27 years (1997), following a nail biting three point victory (2-15 to 0-18) over Dunnamaggin in a thrilling battle played in UPMC Nowlan Park on Friday Evening.

Playing against the wind in the first-half on an autumnal evening, two Killian Carey goals had the Young Irelands men all square at half-time. 2-5 to 0-11.

The teams remained level at 2-10 to 0-16 midway through the second-half before a horrendous shower occured, but Young Irelands dug deep during that final quarter as they stood tall defensively while outscoring Dunnamaggin 0-5 to 0-2.

Killian Carey crashed home the first of his goals in the 11th minute to lead 1-1 to 0-2, before he added his second goal in the 17th minute following a long delivery from the excellent Jim Conlon as they led 2-2 to 0-5, but Dunnamaggin primarily through the stick of Seaghan O’Neill responded as the teams were level at the interval.

Dylan Carey and Diarmuid Langton added points early in the second-half to put the Gowran men two points up(2-7 to 0-11), but Adam Fitzpatrick was outstanding while introduced as a half-time substitute and he scored a hat-trick of points from play as the teams were level heading into the final quarter.

Following the heavy showers, Young Irelands dug deep and trojan and heroic defending from Sean Middleton, Emmet Byrne and Sean Farrell in particular kept Dunnamaggin in check, while Jim Conlon, Jimmy Lennon and Patrick Brennan worked tirelessly in helping gain supremacy around the middle third area. Killian Carey added a brace of points from play in the 48th and 51st minutes respectively to put Young Irelands two points up(2-12 to 0-16), with the latter a sublime individual solo effort following a penetrating solo run.

Dunnamaggin kept plugging away and Adam Fitzpatrick pointed from play in the 54th minute, before he squandered a glorious chance in the 56th minute that would have been the equalizer.

Jake Byrne along with The Phelan brothers Ben and Cian all came off the bench, with Jake and Cian making an outstanding contribution with three superb points from play between them in the closing few minutes that helped close out the game Congratulations to Young Irelands on a fantastic triumph with the possiblity of further Junior glory to come with The Junior Fs. Young Irelands: Peter Hutchinson, Sean Middleton(Captain), Emmet Byrne, Charlie Fitzgerald, David Langton, Sean Farrell, Jim Conlon, Conor Fitzpatrick, Jimmy Lennon, Patrick Brennan(0-1), Jack Brennan, Gavin Manning, Dylan Carey(0-2), Killian Carey 2-7(0-5 frees), Diarmuid Langton (0-2). Subs: Ben Phelan, Cian Phelan (0-2), Jake Byrne (0-1), JUNIOR FS QUALIFY FOR COUNTY FINAL Congratulations to The Young Irelands Junior F Team that

qualified for The Junior F County Final against Mullinavat, following an emphatic 3-17 to 1-8 win against Kilmacow in Thomastown.

Played in deplorable weather conditions, The Gowran men gained revenge on Kilmacow following their one point loss in the opening round of the Championship.

The Junior A Team had also lost in the opening round of the Championship, to their final opponents Dunnamaggin.

Mullinavat defeated St. Lachtains 2-4 to 0-7 in the other SemiFinal in a low scoring contest, with The Freshford men having won the League Final against Young Irelands.

INTERMEDIATES STROLL TO COMPREHENSIVE WIN The Young Irelands Intermediates made it three wins from three in The Intermediate League following a landslide 2-25 to 0-7 win against neighbours Blacks and Whites in Bennettsbridge on Sunday.

Playing with the advantage of a very strong wind during the opening-half, Young Irelands led 2-12 to 0-2 at half-time thanks to goals from Jack Brennan in the 2nd minute and Sean Carey in first-half injury-time.

The Gowran men won the second-half 0-13 to 0-5 despite playing against a strong wind, and they will look forward to a clash against Tullogher-Rosbercon full of confidence. It promises to be one of the standout ties of the weekend, with both teams having a 100% record after winning all three of their matches.

It’s effectively a League Final play-off, with the winners next Sunday almost certainly qualifying for The League Final along with booking a quarter-final berth in The Championship.

ALL-IRELAND UNDERAGE TOURNAMENTS Well done to The Young Irelands Juvenile players that competed in the respective All-Ireland Underage Tournaments for Kilkenny across the weekend.

The Club were represented by Harry Barcoe, Dylan Drennan and Darragh Carroll at Under-14, Dylan Brennan, Tomas Carroll and Darragh Corcoran at Under-15 with Darragh captaining the Team, while The Under-16s were represented

by Kealan Barcoe and Aidan Keating.

U14 CAMOGIE The Young Irelands Under-14 Camogie girls recently headed to Wexford for a bonding evening.

The girls had the challenging task of completing an obstacle course which they successfully negotiated, and that was followed by a meal in BurgerMac in Enniscorthy before making their way home. Well done to the girls and coaches on a very successful day out, and very best wishes to them ahead of the upcoming Championship.

BENNETTSBRIDGE FIELD DAY Well done to the girls and boys U-10 Young Irelands Teams who participated in The Bennttsbridge Field day in front of a packed crowd on a glorious summer afternoon.

The boys and girls were treated to goodie bags for their great efforts on the pitch.

U9 JOHN LOCKES CALLAN TOURNAMENT Meanwhile, the Young Irelands U-9 boys were in Callan at the John Lockes U9 Blitz.

It was a memorable occasion for the boys as they marched with the Club Banner up through Callan before commencing their matches in the club pitch.

Well done to the players, coaches, parents for been part of a great day in a great tournament.

U8 BOYS BLACKS AND WHITES TOURNAMENT The U8 Boys travelled to Skeoughvasteen to partake in the recent U8 Blitz. They played The Rower Inistioge GAA and The Blacks and Whites, and there were great displays of hurling.

The U8s have been very busy, as they also took part in the annual Luke Roche Tournament in Inistioge where they played Clara, O’Loughlin Gaels and Slieverue last Saturday morning.

The boys were presented with medals by Kilkenny hurling star John Donnelly.

Well done to the coaches for all their hard work, and to both Blacks and Whites and Rower Inistioge for inviting them to participate.

U6 MOONCOIN TOURNAMENT A huge well done to the U6 boys and girls who travelled Suirside to Mooncoin to compete in their annual U6 Tournament.

A wonderful morning was had by all and many of the young stars earned their first medal.

Well done to the coaches and parents, and to Mooncoin GAA for the invite and superbly run tournament.

GRAIGUENAMANAGH GRAIG NOTES Should you wish to submit news items, club events, announcements etc, you can do so by emailing them to graignotes@outlook.com. Deadline is Saturday 6pm.

LOTTO GAA AND SOCCER Numbers drawn on 19/08 /24 were 8, 11, 25, 29, there was no winner. The following won €30 each Marty Boland, Ann Long, Kevin Aylward , Liam Doyle, Breda Holden . Tickets are available from any club member.

GRAIG TIDY TOWN DRAW The amazing winners for the draw which took place on 22/08/ 2024, were First Prize Stella Walsh, Second Prize Kay Adair, Third Prize Sally and Marie. Money raised through Tidy Towns Jackpot will be used to keep the town looking well all the year round. Draw takes place at 4pm on Thursdays.

RAMBLING HOUSE The monthly Rambling House Session is on the second Friday of each month in Newtown Hall, where you can enjoy music and song from local artists and also many from the surrounding district.The next session is on Friday September 13th at 8.00pm.

MASS TIMES FOR DUISKE ABBEY GRAIGUENAMANAGH

Monday to Friday 10 AM, Saturday 7,30 PM, and Sunday 11AM. CLINIC Cllr Peter ‘Chap’ Cleere will have his clinic on Monday evenings from 7pm at his office in Main Street Graiguenamanagh.

CONGRATULATIONS Congratulations to St Mullins Senior Hurling Team on their great win in the Senior Carlow County Final at Net Watch Park on Sunday last August 22nd.

WORLD HANDBALL CHAMPIONSHIP Congratulations to Kyle Jordan from the Killfane handball Club Kilkenny, and from Griffinnstown, Skeaughvosteen.

He had a good win over Fiachra O’Duil from Armagh to win 2 games to 1, in the O’Neill.Com2024 World Handball in the boys U19 World Final. Well done all.

GORESBRIDGE AND PAULSTOWN MR WALL RIP The death has taken place of Patrick Wall, Goresbridge.

Paddy passed away peacefully at University Hospital Waterford after a short illness. Sadly missed by his loving wife Joan, brother Jim, sisters Mary, Ann and Breda, nephews, nieces, grand-nephews, grand-nieces, Breda’s partner Ian, extended family and friends.

BARROW RANGERS Barrow Rangers won against John Lockes (4-19 to 2-20) in the premier hurling league in Bennetsbridge last Saturday.

Rangers also won against Carlow town (3-15 to 1-12) in the Central Under 18’s.

Rangers will play against Piltown in Inistioge on Sunday 1st September at 12 midday.

BRIDGE UNITED We are delighted to now have coaches in place for our Under8s. Registration is now open on Clubforce on the club website.

Under-13 Girls Soccer is starting soon if you are interested you can contact Lorraine (085 7375836) To register for the Under14s Girls (born in 2011) you can contact Paul (086 3636515).

Due to a huge interest, registration for boys Under-12s and Under-13s is now closed.

CHURCH SERVICES A memorial service in memory of all Brigidine Sisters interred beside the church in Goresbridge will take place this Saturday, 31st August. All welcome.

Weekend masses will be celebrated in Goresbridge at 7.30pm on Saturday and at 10.00am on Sunday.Celebration will be held in Paulstown at 11.30am. Weekday mass is at 10am in Paulstown on Friday and on Tuesday and in Goresbridge on Wednesday, at 10am. Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament takes place in Paulstown every Tuesday after morning mass and lasts until 6pm.

COMMUNITY GARDEN The Community Garden continues this Wednesday morning at 11am – 1pm at the Goresbridge Respond House in St Bridget’s Close.

CONCERT RTE Radio 1 singer of the year Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh with her trio in concert at Ionad Dara, Goresbridge on Friday 6th September at 8.30pm. Supported on Mouth Organs by John and Pip Murphy from Carrig On Bannow, Co. Wexford. This promises to be a fantastic night of top class music and song.

Tickets €23.00 available from Gerry Kavanagh tel. 086 0443152 or on Eventbrite.ie.

COUCH TO 5KM All are welcome to a weekly meet up at the playground in Goresbridge at 8pm every Thursday. We walk for up to an hour around the track. Walk as little or as much as you like.

CUPLA FOCAL Weekly Friday chatting in Irish continues over a cuppa in the Goodly Barrow every Friday at 11am.

NATURE’S WAY (BORRIS AND GORESBRIDGE AREAS) A pre-school and after-school service opens from 8.30am to 6pm daily from the beginning of September at Scoil Bhríde in Goresbridge. Information: Ann O’Kelly (085 752 9485) or Michelle Cummins (089 947 3317).

PAULSTOWN FIELD DAY This year’s Paulstown Field Day takes place on Sunday 8th September, 2-6pm €10 per family SPLIT THE POT Split The Pot in aid of Goresbridge Rural Development has gone online. Simply scan the QR code or go to lottoraiser.ie TAR ISTEACH (GORESBRIDGE) The sale is running for one week until this Saturday with 200 dresses for sale at €2 each, plus shoes and boots at €2 and €4 each as well as books (children’s, crime, romance, cookery, gardening, history, biography) - at €4 for 6. The shop is now open from 9am-5pm, Monday to Thursday, 9am to 4.30pm Friday and 10am-1pm Saturday.

Tom Healy

BENNETTSBRIDGE IRISH DANCING AT DANESFORT Bennettsbridge girls entertained the crowd at the field day in Danesfort on Sunday. Dancing were, Leah Smith, Sophie Dowling, Lauren Prendergast, Sofia and Zahra Khodabacksh and Kate Flanagan.

CONGRATULATIONS! Congratulations to local students who received their Leaving Certificate results last week. Best of luck in the future.

SESSIONS HOUSE

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

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 30th August 2024

Community & GAA Notes Starting them young, the first away game of the season for our U6 superstars, a brilliant performance in Thomastown.

Thanks so much to all the parents for bringing the girls out to camogie 2 nights this week! We hope they’re all enjoying it, they’ve all come so far this season.

GAA Senior Hurling Our senior hurlers scored a fine victory over James Stephens in round 3 of the league/championship in Danesfort last Friday evening. Despite a slow start the ‘Bridge lads hurled well and came out on top after a tough game. The next round is in Gowran next Saturday at 2 pm versus Dicksboro. All support needed for another tough game.

Hosting Games We hosted Young Ireland’s and Blacks and Whites in the Intermediate League and Paulstown and Callan in the Junior League over the last weekend. Thanks again to all who stewarded on both days. We host Slieverue and Emeralds in the Junior League next Sunday at midday.

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

Club Shop A new range has been added to the Bennettsbridge online

shop on the O’Neill’s website Simply enter Bennettsbridge into the search box to access the full range of adult and kids club gear.

DICKSBORO CLUB LOTTO Dicksboro GAA Club Lotto Results 22nd August 2024. Nos: 13 15 22 32. Jackpot not won Draw Prizes – €50: Marie Gorey c/o Ned Buggy. €25 each P Moylan c/o Online. €25 each O Moriarty c/o Dohertys Bar. €25 each PJ Morton c/o online. Hurlers Co Op Anne Hennessy c/o Online. Promotors prize Phil Hogan.

We encourage all Dicksboro Families to sign up & play weekly for €2 per draw and we thank everyone who is currently doing so.

DENIS PHILPOTT TOURNAMENT A sincere thanks to our visiting teams and mentors for taking part in the hugely successful Denis Philpott Tournament 2024. Teams from Cork, Tipperary, Dublin and Kilkenny took part. Thanks also to all our volunteers & match officials who helped out on the day. The games were very competitive and well done O’Loughlin Gaels who came out overall winners.

HANDBALL

Denis Philpott Tournament

Bennettsbridge girls danced at the Danesfort Field Day A talk on the Sessions House in Thomastown, given by historian Joe Doyle during Heritage Week brings to mind the family

A tutor led walking group commencing on September 26th may be of interest to walking enthusiasts in the area.

Congratulations to our Minor Player Anthony Clifford on winning the u17 Wall Ball Doubles Final along with Gavin Kelly (Galway) a fantastic achievement for Anthony to win a World Medal to add to his other Titles.

NA CAIT OIGE Congratulations to all our young players who took part in the Hurling Academy National games over the weekend U16 Panels - Samuel J OShea, Ben Henderson, Dan Carroll, Rian Dowling and Eoin Moore U15 Panels - Jack Treacy, Robbie Lacey, Sean Kavanagh, Joe Dowling and James Kavanagh.

U14 Panels - Rhys Duggan, Canice Power, Conor Henderson, Tom Henderson and Billy Wyse.

UPCOMING FIXTURES Senior Hurling; Dicksboro v Bennetsbridge 31st August at 2pm Senior Camogie; Dicksboro v St Martins 1st Sept 11am Junior Camogie; Dicksboro v Erin’s Own 30th August 6.45pm PALMERSTOWN CLUBHOUSE Dicksboro Clubhouse Bar is opened every Thursday from 8.30pm. 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 would be delighted to see you out to the club for a chat. We have a selection of non-alcoholic beers, barista coffee also available so come along and enjoy.

Conahy Vintage club is holding the Johnny Dooley Memorial Tractor Run in aid of Nore Cancer Support and Kilkenny Carlow Home Care Team on September 7th beginning at Kilkenny Block Company, registration from 1pm and all support is greatly appreciated.

Bennettsbridge Camogie U6s Played in Thomastown associated with the building in a caretaker capacity. Ned and Moll Maher, their son John Joe and daughter, Daisy lived there. They were well known and popular in the town. Daisy later married Pat Murphy. John Joe was the local correspondent for the Kilkenny Journal.

In the early sixties, on a personal note, this correspondent first delved into reporting. As Press Officer for Thomastown ICA, I had a hand in the monthly report to the Maher family.

It would include winners of monthly craft competitions and upcoming events. Sixty years later, still reporting on community happenings.

MENS SHED The Bennettsbridge Mens Shed has really taken off in the village attracting upwards of 20 participants weekly. Tea, Chat, Cards, Rings are just some of the activities enjoyed on Wednesday afternoons from 2 to 4pm. After an absence of two weeks, to accommodate the Bennettsbridge Art Group Exhibition, the popular pool table is now in place again in the small meeting room. All welcome to come along.

LOTTO RESULTS No winner of Jackpot. Numbers, 8, 11, 12, 16. Jackpot now €1,900.00. Consolation Prizes, May Croke, Woodlawn, Paddy Gubbins, Ballyreddin, BB Syndicate, BB Syndicate, David O’Neill, Ballinamona, Thomastown.

CHURCH NEWS Weekday Masses, Wednesday and Friday, Mass at 10.30am.

ADULT LITERACY FOR LIFE Kilkenny Adult Learning Service offers free courses to adults who struggle with reading and writing, maths, and digital skills. Contact number 056 7763149 or freephone 1800 20 20 65.

Email allinnovation@solas.ie WALKING GROUP

“Come and walk with us on this tutor led programme each Friday morning at 10.00-11.00am. The programme is 10 weeks long from September 26th to December 6th with no walk on November 1st (mid term / Halloween).

Meet at the Coffee Shop in Kilkenny Castle Park each Friday morning for 10am start. The Castle Park is a safe, protected space where we can all enjoy nature while walking.

We will be supplying Activator Walking Poles (similar to Nordic Poles) as these help us to stretch, walk in a nice upright way and they’re also useful for balance and for doing some light exercises when we’re finished our walk. You don’t have to use the poles if you don’t wish. All levels and abilities are welcome to join in the programme and we look forward to seeing you there. Nobody will be left behind. Come out, walk and chat”.

The link to register is https://www.krsp.ie/krsp-events/ Participants must register and pay in advance. If you need help to do this call Seamus Nugent, Sports Inclusion Development Officer,Kilkenny Recreation and Sports Partnership, on 087 3567884 or call the office on 056 7794991. We can get you registered in 5 minutes!

ART GROUP Following a very successful year culminating in the 2024 Exhibition during Kilkenny Arts Week, Bennettsbridge Art Group will take a break for a number of weeks and will then meet up to discuss plans for the future.

BORD NA N-OG The under 10s played in the Go Games finals in Nowlan Park last week. The boys were presented with new jerseys before their match against Blacks and Whites. The jerseys were sponsored by Bord na n-Og. No better place to don the new gear than in Nowlan Park.

CAMOGIE U6s

BALLYRAGGET BALLYOUSKILL

Anthony Clifford winner of the u17 Wall Ball Doubles Final along with Gavin Kelly (Galway).

DEEPEST SYMPATHIES Deepest sympathies are extended to the Brennan family Attanagh on the sad passing of Padraig. To his parents Ned and Jacinta, brother Oisin, sister Ciara, his partner Fiona, uncles, aunts, cousins and a wide circle of friends and work colleagues. Padraig will be truly missed by all who had the

We Wewelcome welcomeall allGAA GAAClub Cluband andCommunity Communitynotes notesfor forpublication publicationin inThe TheKilkenny KilkennyObserver Observeremail emailto tosales@kilkennyobserver.ie sales@kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 30th August 2024

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Community & GAA Notes pleasure to know him. Padraig was laid to rest on Sunday in Ballyouskill. May he rest in peace.

GAA St Patrick’s GAA junior side will play Kilmacow in Danesfort on Sunday evening at 7pm.

CASTLECOMER COFFEE MORNING The recent Coffee Morning in aid of upgrades to Tulla Church, Threecastles made €1000. A big Thank You to all who attended or donated.

JOHNSTOWN COIS NORE A new Cois Nore Outreach service will be held on Fridays beginning August 30th and every Friday at the Mill Family Resource Centre, Urlingford from 10am to 12 noon. Please do not hesitate to drop in for information and support ,or to make an appointment contact 0874833941.

SAINT KIERAN’S HALL 500 CLUB This is your last chance to get your name into the 500 club.

Draws for July and August will be held in the hall on Wednesday September 4th before the Bingo.

LECTURE A great crowd converged on Eirke Church to hear a very informative lecture from Padraig O’Machair to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the execution of six men following the murder of landlord John Marum. Many thanks to Padraig and to Sean Doherty for the amplification and the chairs.

SCHOOLS BACK A big welcome back to the students from St. Kieran’s N.S, St. Michael’s N.S. and Colaiste Mhuire. A special welcome to the new children to the infants classes and the first years. Well done to all the students from Colaiste Mhuire on their very successful Leaving Cert results. They are wished well in the next phase of their education.

CREATIVE WORKSHOP Urlingford Library in conjunction with Kilkenny Leader Partnership are hosting a creative workshop on Thursday Sept 12th from 10am to 12 noon showcasing your own unique journey to recovery. Participants will be invited to a future follow up session linked with the mental health forum Kilkenny city.

Contact Sarah on 0860843446 or Grainne on 0861526623.

Tea/ coffee and refreshments included.

ST. ANNE’S CAMOGIE CLUB Congratulations to Niamh Drennan and her playing partner Boo Murphy, Wexford and Una Duggan and Emer Barron, Windgap on winning the All Ireland handball, wallball doubles championship in U15 and U19 .

MRS KAY DOYLE RIP Mrs. Kay Doyle (nee Anderson), Rathpatrick, Crosspatrick and formally of Meen Lougher, Castlefinn, Co. Donegal. Kay died peacefully at Acorn Lodge, Cashel. Predeceased by her husband Michael , parents and siblings, she will be sadly missed by her daughters Carina, Geri, Una, Collette and Belinda, sons in law David, Mike and Troels, grandchildren Charlotte, Matthew, Mae, Millie, Shane, Emily, Sonny, Lily and Dara, great grandchild Lena, sister Phyllis, extended family, neighbours and many friends. Kay was laid to rest in Crosspatrick Graveyard after Requiem Mass in St. Michael’s Church.

SYMPATHY Sympathy is extended to the Russell family who have been bereaved by the death of their Dad Eddie, Two Mile Borris and late of Crosspatrick. Eddie ran a very successful business, bar, grocery and hardware in Crosspatrick until he retired. Requiem Mass was celebrated in St. Michael’s Church followed by burial in the adjoining graveyard.

SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO The winning numbers for this week’s draw were 6,22,25,26, four lucky dips Jonathan Dermody, Daniel Dermody, Oliver Beehan and Gladys Ryan.

MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE FAMILY FUN DAY Thank you to all who attended and supported us on the day, it was great success. All funds raised will go towards our Counselling and Play Therapy services. Looking forward to doing it all again next year.

ST KIERAN’S HOMES FOR THE ELDERLY Applications are invited for the Vacant Tenancy of a onebedroom house at St Kieran’s Place, Urlingford. To be eligible to apply you must be on the Kilkenny County Council Housing list. Applications are available from the Centre.

LOCAL TRAINING PROGRAMME L.T.I. Names are been taken for L.T.I. Q.Q.I. Level 4 due to start soon.

New Courses. There are two new courses commencing this September, Office Admin One morning a week commencing on Monday 9th September.

Basic Computers One morning a week commencing on Wednesday 11th September.

These will run up to May 2025.

We are having an information morning on these courses here in the centre on Friday the 30th August from 10.a.m until 12.p.m. Everybody welcome.

COUNSELLING SERVICES Our low cost Counselling Services, includes One-to-One, Adult and Teens. General Counselling: Bereavement, Stress, Anxiety and Depression. Other Counselling Services available: Drug, Substance and Gambling Addictions. Play therapy is now also available. Age 5+. Please contact Sue for more information or

to make an appointment.

SENIOR ALERT If you need to apply for a Personal Alarm, please contact Sue or Josephine in the centre.

DEFIBRILLATOR Please note that there is a defibrillator located in the Mill Family Resource Centre if and when it may be required.

APPEAL FOR CLOTHES DONATIONS Any clothes donations would be greatly appreciated in aid of our counselling/play therapy services. Donations can be left into the Centre, please call before dropping off.

JOBS TRAINING BOARD We have a Jobs Board here at the Centre, feel free to call in and take a look, we also offer help and support with CV’s and cover letters if required. For further information please contact us here at the Centre on 056-8838466 GORTNAHOE GLENGOOLE EUCHARISTIC ADORATION Glengoole Wednesday 10am to 2pm, Gortnahoe Thursday 10am to 1pm GLENGOOLE COMMUNITY GROUP PJ Murrihy in Buddy’s Shed Glengoole this Saturday 31st August at 9pm. Adm €15.

BOULICK MASS We celebrated our annual cemetery Mass in Boulick on the 15th August, it was a lovely evening for the occasion, there was a large crowd in attendance. Fr James Walton was the concelebrant of the Mass. The first reading was delivered by Mary Collins and the second reading by Nicola Ryan. The prayers of the faithful were recited by Mary Phelan, Sinead Cleere, Ann Kenny, Sinead Large, John Mullhall and Chris Fennelly. Special prayers were offered for all buried in Boulick, especially Martin Prout and Denise Ryan, who were laid to rest in Boulick since our last Mass. Minister of the Eucharist was Mairead Maher, a beautiful communion reflection was read by Joe Maher. A word of thanks to the wonderful choir which included musicians and singers from Gortnahoe and Urlingford, under the guidance of Margaret Maher and Sean Hennessey, this was uplifting and added greatly to our special Mass. Thanks to the Gortnahoe Hall Committee for the use of the chairs and table, thanks also to Richard Dunne for the use of the amplification system. Thanks to the FAS group and the dedicated Committee for their care of the graveyard and had it looking so well on the evening and throughout the year. A special word of thanks to Fr James Walton and Joe Maher for organising the Mass and a sincere thanks to all who contributed to the collection for the upkeep of the cemetery.

400 CLUB DRAW The results for July, 1st Prize €200 Paul Farrell, Glengoole, 2nd Prize, Michael & Maureen Murphy, Galmoy. Other prize winners were Michelle & Francis Keogh, Garranroe, Liam Norton, Clonora, Nora Norton, Coole, Mary Fennelly, Boulick, Claire and Declan Prendergast, Glengoole, Jim Butler, Fennor, Fran and Cathy Morris, Poynestown and Mattie Walsh, Urlingford.

Promoters prize winner was Mary McGivern.

The results for August, 1st Prize €200 Eleanor Norton, Graiguewood, 2nd Prize, Eddie and Mary White, Littlefield. Other prize winners were Geraldine Bartley, Graigue, Mary and Thomas Hayes, Ballynonty, Fran and Cathy Morris, Poynestown, John and Eileen Coleman, Graigue, John and Majella Ryan, Crabb, PJ and Olivia McCormack, Clonora, Karen Gleeson, Coole and Alicia O’Keefe, Ballysloe. Promoters prize winner was Martin Campion.

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

SPLIT THE POT Congratulations to Tom Webster, Gortnahoe who won €215 in the Split the Pot draw last Sunday. Envelopes are available at the usual outlets, you can also Revolut to 0876777220. For the month of September Split the Pot will be in support of Ballysloe Community Group. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated.

FENNOR CREAMERY Last call for photos and articles relating to Fennor, Ballysloe and Grange creameries. Fennor creamery will celebrate the 125th Anniversary of its foundation this year. A booklet to commemorate the event will be published later in the year.

We would appreciate any photos, newspaper articles or stories in relation to Fennor, Ballysloe and Grange creameries.

All photos and articles will be returned to the owners. Please contact Liam Noonan, Denis Bowden, Michael Lanigan or Jimmy Fogarty.

FREE LIBRARY A lot of new books have come in to Gortnahoe Community Hall library. They are free to take home and the library is based inside the main door of the hall. When the hall is opened anyone can go inside the main door and select a book or books of their choice and they will disturb no one in the hall. In the last week a number of audio books have been added to the library. These audio books would suit anyone who might be visually impaired. Over the coming weeks more audio books will be added to the library. A lot of Parish Annuals were left into the library in the last week going back a good number of years, if any member of the community want to call to hall and take home any of the annuals free for their own collection. If there are no demand for them they may have to be shredded in the future so it’s important this offer is taken up. If you know anyone that would avail of these, please take one to them. This is a Gortnahoe Community Hall initiative and this idea will succeed with the local parish

support.

KILMANAGH GOLF CLASSIC Mount Carmel Supported Care Home Annual Golf Classic on Friday 30th and Saturday 31st August 2024. Team Entry Fee €100. For Tee Times contact John Healy on 086 166 4256 or Margaret Maher on 087 960 6440. We are appealing to your generosity for this very worthy fundraiser which you have so kindly supported in the past. Your Sponsorship can be given in any of the following ways; 1. Monetary Donation or 2. Donation of prizes for the Golf Classic. Bank Account Details: IBAN: IE53AIBK93309014719192: BIC: AIBKIE2D DEFIBRILLATOR TRAINING If there’s enough interest, we plan on running a defibrillator training course in the near future. If you are interested in taking part please text your name to Annette Wall at 086 835 3993. The course is planned for the end of September.

ANAM CARA Anam Cara are holding an Online Bereavement Information Evening on Tuesday 3rd of September at 7pm. Contact 01 404 5378 or visit www.anamcara.ie.

IRISH DANCING CLASSES McAliskey School of Irish Dancing will hold Irish Dancing Classes in Naomh Aodhan Community Centre on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 to 7:30 starting in September. Open to children aged 3 years and above. Contact Seána on 083 8638436 to enrol.

RUNNING CLUB To celebrate their 10th Birthday the Running Club (in conjunction with St Aidan’s National School Parents Association) will host a number of events, in Kilmanagh, on Saturday, September 28th. 5k Family Fun Run/Walk starts at 11.10am (€10 individual entry/€20 for families), on the day registration.

10k Chipped Run starts at 11am, register online at eventmaster.ie/event/JkLmHpvHRk. Refreshments will be served. Bib collection on the day. AI Permit Granted, number 23/95. Note : 10k open to Over 18s only, 5k not chipped, children must be accompanied by parents/guardian.

SPEECH AND DRAMA Speech and Drama Classes will recommence on Tuesday, September 17 in Ballycallan Community Hall.

RIVER RANGERS SOCCER FIXTURE Friday August 30th at 7.30pm Under 16 Schoolboys League Highview Athletic v River Rangers NAOMH AODHAN COMMUNITY CENTRE The Naomh Aodhán Community Centre in Kilmanagh is available to hire for meetings, social occasions, etc. Contact Naomh Aodhán on 083 3413 024 for details of availability.

BALLYCALLAN COMMUNITY HALL Ballycallan Community Hall is also available for hire and events. Contact Jimmy Lynch, or any of the committee members for details.

PARISH LOTTO Results for 19/08//24. Numbers drawn were 9; 10; 17; 25.

There was no winner. Lucky Dip Winners of €50 each were The Wall Family, St. Brigid’s Camogie Club and Gar Hickey. Sellers prizes went to Michael Teehan and Mark Hogan. Draw takes place each Monday at 9pm.

KILMANAGH NOTES Anyone wishing to submit news items, events, announcements etc. can do so by email only to elanigan18@gmail.com.

If you have any photos that you would like included, please send as an attachment.

CONAHY HURLING The intermediate hurlers suffered a second consecutive defeat in the Michael Lyng Motors IHL when they were beaten

by Rower-Inistioge in Gowran on Saturday last. The locals battled as bravely as they could all through but were not able to match their opponent’s ability to get scores when they mattered most. In the end, and despite a late Conahy goal creating some drama before the final whistle, Rower-Inistioge were deserving winners by 1-23 to 2-16. A win in their next game against Carrickshock is vital for the locals to stave off the threat of relegation in the future. The throw in time for that game is on Sunday next at 12.00 in Palmerstown.

TEAM: Karl Downey, Ciaran Rice, Philip Cass, Liam Cass, Donal Brennan, Brian Healy, Darragh Hennessy, Eoin Cahill, Jack Murphy, Tom Phelan, James Bergin, Tom Rice, Rob Ring, Kieran Mooney, Bill Murphy. Subs.: Mark Gunner, Eoin Carroll, John Mullan.

CAMOGIE The intermediate camogie girls made a very positive start in their first game in the Intermediate League/Championship on Sunday last when they scored a big win over Ballyhale Shamrocks in Jenkinstown. Some excellent scores together with a pair of goals from Grace Mulhall saw Conahy lead by 2-15 to 0-7 at half time. The second half was a more even game until late on until Conahy scored a number of late goals from Amy Brennan (2), Emma Mulhall and Aisling Downey.

It ensured that Conahy were comfortable winners by 6-22 to 0-12. Conahy will be back in action on the weekend after next when they play host to O’Loughlin Gaels.

TEAM: Niamh Delaney, Gráinne Comerford, Sofia Kerr, Caoimhe Hennessy, Aisling Maher, Roisín Phelan, Amy Morrissey, Danielle Morrissey, Katie Brennan, Emma Mulhall, Ellen Gunner, Katie Brennan, Hollie Brennan, Grace Mulhall, Amy Brennan, Ruth Phelan, Hannah Murphy, Aisling Downey, Amy Lawless, Molly O’Dornan, Sarah Webster, Aoife Gamble, Emma Cahill, Siofraidh Kennedy, Robyn Morrissey.

Next up, the junior camogie girls will travel away to Mooncoin

for their first game in the Junior C Cup on Friday night at 7.30 p.m.

JOHNNY DOOLEY MEMORIAL RUN Conahy Vintage Club will hold the “Johnny Dooley Memorial Tractor and Truck Run” in aid of Cois Nore Cancer Support Centre and the Carlow Kilkenny Home Care Team on Saturday, September 7th. All tractors, trucks and cars are welcome.

The Run will commence at 3.00 p.m. from Kilkenny Block Company Ltd., Inchmore, Freshford (R95 R258), with registration available at 1.00 p.m. Please try to support this event in aid of what are extremely worthy causes.

CLUB LOTTO The numbers drawn in the most recent GAA Club Lotto were 23, 34 and 39. There was no jackpot winner, so the consolation prize winners were Elizabeth Feehan, Michael Butler, Noah and Charlie McNamara, Hennessy Family (Toor) and Caitríona Phelan. The promoter prize winners were Shay Healy, Nora Delaney and Julie Jackman. Many thanks to everyone who supports the GAA Club Lotto.

HUGGINSTOWN NEWMARKET AND STONEYFORD MASS TIMES Aghaviller Parish Hugginstown: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday at 9.30a.m. Vigil – Saturday 31st. at 8.00p.m.; Sunday 1st. at 10.00a.m. Stoneyford, Wednesday at 7.00p.m. Vigil, Saturday 31st. at 6.30p.m.

Friday 30th. Feast of St. Fiacre. Saturday 31st. Feast of St. Aidan PRAY FOR Anniversary Masses,Josephine Molyneaux, Cherrymount,Mass in Stoneyford Church on Saturday 31st. August at 6.30p.m.

Michael and Peggy Raggett, Croan,Mass in Hugginstown Church on Sunday 1st. September at 10.00a.m.

ROTA (22ND. SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME) Readers, Stoneyford, Saturday 6.30p.m. Sheila Lennon, Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Deirdre Rohan, Sunday 10.00a.m. Deirdre O’Shea. Eucharistic Ministers, Stoneyford, Saturday 6.30p.m. Natalia Smolen. Hugginstown, Saturday 8.00p.m. Mary Cuddihy; Sunday 10.00a.m. Lillian Carr.

STONEYFORD TEXT ALERT AGM On Wednesday the 11th of September, Stoneyford Text Alert will hold their AGM at 7.30 in the Community Centre and everyone is invited to attend. The subscription for the year is €10 per mobile phone number, which can be paid on the night. Alternatively, you can put €10.00 (per mobile No), your name(s), address and mobile number(s) in an envelope and drop it into Willie’s Shop or Fred’s Bar. We hope to have a member of An Garda Síochána in attendance to speak to us about crime prevention, etc. New members can join on the night.

SAFEGUARDING CONTACTS Diocesan Designated Liaison Person,Ms. Ailish Higgins Tel: 087 100 0232. Aghaviller Parish Representatives are: Deirdre Rohan and Catherina Roche.

ADULT LITERACY FOR LIFE (ALL) Do you know that in Ireland, 1 in 6 adults struggle with reading and writing, 1 in 4 adults struggle with maths and 1 in 2 adults struggle with digital skills? Do you or a family member need to improve your reading, writing, maths or digital skills?

We can help. All courses are free. Contact: Kilkenny Adult Learning Service (KCETB) 056 776 3149 or freephone 1800 20 20 65 or email allinnovation@solas.ie <mailto:allinnovation@ solas.ie> COUNTY KILKENNY MASS PATHS AND HOLY WELLS SURVEY Kilkenny County Council in partnership with Shanarc Archaeology and Wicklow Willow are conducting a survey of holy wells and mass paths in County Kilkenny. If they are not recorded in the near future, their presence and value will have faded from the public memory.

Much of the knowledge of holy wells and mass paths rests in community memory around the county and Kilkenny County Council need your help to record this knowledge before it is too late. We also hope to hold workshops around the county over the coming months to hear your stories. To get involved in the project or to share information about your local holy well or mass path, please contact the Heritage Office at Kilkenny County Council at heritage@kilkennycoco.ie or 056 779 4923 STONEYFORD SCHOOL Stoneyford NS are recruiting for School Transport Escorts for our special classes for next year. The bus escort will accompany and support pupils in our classes to and from school each day. The bus escort must be available in the mornings and afternoons, five days per week for the school year. For more information please contact Kieran Byrne (mkieran@ stoneyfordns.ie) LOTTO Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. Draw: Monday 19th. August 2024, Numbers: 27; 18; 16; 28. No Winner First 3 Numbers Drawn. No Jackpot Winner: €30.00. Winners: Nora O’Dwyer, “On Line”. Jim Barron, Catstown. Deirdre Rohan, Carricketna; Padhraic Davies, c/o Pat Dwyer, Pat Farrell, Lismatigue. 3 x €15.00 (Sellers). Jimmy Walsh, Ger Carroll, Tommy Murphy.

SOUTH KILKENNY HISTORICAL SOCIETY Walking in the footsteps of the O’Neills’ of Owning on Saturday, August 31st. Starting point at Owning National School and time at 10.45a.m. Tour Guide: Paddy O’Shea STONEYFORD CEMETERY: Stoneyford Cemetery Committee would like to thank all those who so generously contributed to the Collection for the maintenance and upkeep of the Cemetery at the recent Cemetery Mass. The amount collected was €500.00.

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

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Hurling matters - St. Canice’s Credit Union Kilkenny Senior Hurling League

Sport

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

After three rounds of this season’s St. Canice’s Credit Union Kilkenny Senior Hurling League, things are beginning to take shape, and it doesn’t make great reading if you are James Stephens or Erin’s Own. While other teams are blossoming, August has proved a very difficult month for the two sides that find themselves pointless and bottom of their respective groups as a result.

Castlecomer’s Erin’s Own struggled last year and narrowly avoided slipping into the Intermediate ranks and many predicted a similar fight this season, but not many would have predicted that The Village would be rooted to the bottom of Group A. Sitting just above Brian Cody’s club, are Glenmore who have also found the going tough this campaign. Somewhat surprisingly, Shamrocks Ballyhale find themselves just north of the men from ‘Comer with two points from the opening three games which is the same return that Clara who secured their first victory of the league over South Kilkenny’s finest last weekend have.

Despite a massive 13-point haul from County star Eoin Cody, it wasn’t enough to register a second win of the campaign, as the Shamrocks fell to a 6-point defeat. Clara had eye-catching performances from Paul Cody and POTM Joe Connolly, who both notched 1-4 in a game staged at sunny Thomastown. There were also telling contributions from James Bergin (0-6) and Chris Bolger (1-2), along with a decent cameo from sub Peter Nolan (1-0).

With All-Star Adrian Mullen and legendary TJ Reid missing through suspension and injury respectively, Shamrocks will look to get these key figures back on the pitch and hope to get back to winning ways sooner rather than later.

The Village had a great start in their clash with Bennettsbridge, but ultimately fell to a very heavy defeat in Danesfort. Cian Kenny (0-8), Eoin Guilfoyle (1-1); Ed Lauhoff, Luke Scanlon (0-3 each) all put in decent shifts for the City side, who unfortunately lost the influential Niall Brassil to an evergrowing injury list. The ‘Bridge went goal crazy, hitting no fewer than five majors in their 13-point win. Liam Blanchfield top scored with 2-4, while Sean Morrissey (2) and Jason Cleere also raised green flags for their team, who had ten different scorers in the round 3 win.

For Erin’s own, there doesn’t appear to be any light appearing at the end of the tunnel. When you are struggling for form and backto-back defeats, the last team you probably want to face would be the County champions. Well, that was the case for the Castlecomer outfit as they made it three defeats on the bounce when they were beaten by a whopping 28 points in Freshford by a well drilled O’Loughlin

O’Loughlin’s & ‘Town to the fore as league takes shape!

Gaels side, who probably didn’t reach their maximum level when cantering to an easy win. As usual, Mark Bergin racked up the numbers, hitting 0-10, while Conor Kelly was on song, notching 0-6.

The goals were scored by Sean Bolger and sub Alex Sheridan.

OLG are sitting pretty at the top of Group B, largely untroubled so far, while also top scoring and conceding the least across both groups. At this stage of the club season, they look primed to be in pole position to defend their Tom Walsh Cup crown.

As the teams get set for a fourth round of battles this weekend, only two teams have 100% records on the line, O’Loughlin Gaels and Thomastown. Graigue Ballycallan are the only other unbeaten side, having collected two wins and one draw from the first three servings.

The action begins with two games at noon tomorrow. Piltown is the venue for Group A leaders Thomastown and fifth place

Glenmore. Based on what we have seen so far this season, anything other than a win for the ‘Town would be a surprise. The men in Sean Buggy attempting to clear chased by Sean Bolger

blue had seven points to spare at the long whistle over Tullaroan last weekend in Clara, while the Pairc na Ratha men dug out their

first point of the season in an entertaining draw with Dicksboro at Dr Tierney Park. The Murphy clan will bring the fight, but clan Donnelly, might just have enough to maintain their perfect start.

Having taken the scalp of Shamrocks Ballyhale last time out, Clara will head to Jenkinstown confident of securing a second win at the expense of Erin’s Own. Given the form that Paul Cody and Joe Connolly are in, the Carlow Road side will look to heap more misery on the Castlecomer men.

When you line out minus the twin towers of Conor’s Delaney and Fogarty, it leaves a couple of huge gaps in your team and anything other than a Clara win appears unlikely.

Gowran welcomes Dicksboro and Bennettsbridge for a 2pm throw-in. The Bridge appear to be scoring freely with the trio of Blanchfield’s very much to the fore. Nicky Cleere is as reliable as ever from the placed ball, while

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St. Canice’s Credit Union Kilkenny Senior Hurling League - Hurling matters Darragh Corcoran attempts to Block Paul Cody

Kevin Blanchfield Gets away from William Spencer

Sean Morrissey and Jack Campion have been adding much value to an entertaining side. Tomorrow’s opponents, Dicksboro have had a little bit of everything in their campaign to date. A win, a draw and a defeat as they take to the pitch for a fourth time. You get the feeling that the Palmerstown side will need to win the physical battle to allow the likes of Harry Shine to do what his surname says.

The second of the 2pm games throws-up the meeting of O’Loughlin’s and Graigue Ballycallan. As mentioned earlier, both sides are unbeaten, but it is the St John’s Park side that sit proudly with the maximum points tally of six. A decent spread of scorers is always a good sign, and OLG had eleven on the board during their demolition of Erin’s Own. Jack Nolan and county panelist Owen Wall shared eight points between them, while defenders Huw Lawlor and young David Fogarty also notched

scores. Having beaten Shamrocks Ballyhale, GBC will know this is another huge test and they will need to be on it from the throw-in against the Leinster champions, who have shown why they will once again be the team to beat on Noreside this season.

Tullaroan will hope to bounce back from their loss to new boys Thomastown when they take on James Stephens at Cannon Kearns Park (Throw-in 4pm). Both these sides possess a great deal of quality, but the availability of key players could be crucial in this fixture. Cian Kenny, Eoin Guilfoyle and Luke Scanlon have been plugging away for the city side, but they will face a potent Sash attack in Castlecomer tomorrow. Mossy Keoghan, Gearoid Dunne and Dylan Simpson have been proving a real menace to opposition defences. The Village will feel that they are due a bit of good fortune, and that would need to arrive soon, otherwise it could be a season to forget for the nine times

county champions.

The final offering in the senior league see’s Shamrocks Ballyhale make the short journey to Inchacarran to tackle Mullinavat.

The ‘Vat aren’t scoring at a big rate and will do well to keep the likes of Eoin Cody and Adrian Mullen quiet. The Vegas Boys have one of everything, win, draw and defeat and may see this as the best chance to take points from their illustrious opponents. To do this, they will look to John Walsh to keep the scoreboard ticking over. Joey Holden’s return to the Shamrocks could prove quite timely, and his experience and ability will be a welcome addition to the side. The return from suspension of Adrian Mullen will be another boost and his class will shine through when the action gets under way.

There’s plenty of games for Gaels to take in tomorrow, it certainly is s a ‘super Saturday’! Who will come to the fore in round four? We will find out soon!

Tommy Walsh and Alex Cass in a tussle for possession

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 30th August 2024

Planning notices

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

Further Information Fiona Corr and Johnny McCabe.

Grangehill, Clifden, Co. Kilkenny, R95 Y4E3.

Ref. Nr. of the application: 24/60250.

The development applied for consisted of: 1. Extension to rear of existing dwelling, alterations to existing elevations and adjustment of rear site boundary. 2. Retention of previous extension & alterations to dwelling as constructed, at Grangehill, Clifden, Co. Kilkenny, R95 Y4E3.

Significant Further Information has been furnished to the Planning Authority in respect of this proposed development, and is available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the Offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours of 9:00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the Planning Authority within a period of 2 weeks from the date of receipt of the revised public notices. A submission or observation must be accompanied by the prescribed fee of €20, except in the case of a person or body who has already made a submission or observation and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Annette Russell, wish to apply to above authority for permission for the following at No. 25 Corcoran Terrace, Kilkenny. (a) Provision of new vehicular entrance from Public Road (b) Associated Removal of Front boundary wall (c) Associated Works The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Signed:- Annette Russell

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

IMELDA HEFFERNAN ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

JOHN SEAN CURRAN 9TH ANNIVERSARY

Imelda Heffernan Pinecrest, Bishop’s Hill, Co. Kilkenny who died on 20th May 2024.

In loving memory of John Sean Curran, late of Connolly Street, Kilkenny whose 9th anniversary occurs at this time.

The Family of Imelda Heffernan recently deceased would like to thank all those who attended Imelda’s wake, removal, requiem mass and burial for their kindness and compassion shown.

Your needs in life were simple Your love for your family true In our hearts you will live forever Because we thought the world of you You always had a smile to share Time to give and time to care A loving nature, a heart of gold One of the best this world could hold Never selfish, always kind We cherish the memories you left behind

To all who sent floral wreaths, messages of condolences and Mass cards we thank you all and are so very grateful.

To all who travelled from America, Germany, England and from the four corners of Ireland to be with us in our days of sadness we thank you so sincerely.

To Dr. Frank Chambers and his medical team at Ayrfield Medical Centre who attended to Imelda in her hours of need over the past seven years Deo Gratis.

Always remembered and sadly missed by your wife Mary, son John, grandson Jack, daughters Martina and Mary Nora and son-in-law Darren.

Anniversary Mass 8th September at 11.30am in St Canices Church, Kilkenny.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.M.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. A.G.

To Josepha and her wonderful staff in Archersrath Nursing Home for their patience, attention and care during Mam’s illness not forgetting the Nuns, residents and staff of Troy’s Court who for the Last five years made Imelda’s life so pleasant and delightful.

To the Medjugorje and other prayer groups, Fr. Jim Murphy and team at St. Canice’s Parish, Hehir’s Funeral Directors, Langton’s Restaurant, thank you all so profusely. Special thanks to Ann “F” and Catherine “H” for the friendship, kindness and support during Mam’s very difficult times. Alison, Sean and Martina for the beautiful singing and music which made the requiem mass even more special.

Finally to Imelda’s sisters Mary (New York), Carmel, her seventeen Grandchildren and thirteen Great grandchildren for the love shown and the laughs made.

The holy sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. M.G.

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. I.L.

The Miracle Prayer

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

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

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

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

Never been known to fail.

Must promise publication of prayer. A.B.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 30th August 2024

Classifieds Motors

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

087 2587745

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 30th August 2024