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Friday 08 April 2022

An Indelible Spirit One man’s fight for his boy and his own sanity  Pages 14

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Ukraine’s Hero Extraordinary rise of Volodymyr Zellensky  Page 15

RELAX. REFRESH. RECHARGE.

Top spots to savour Kilkenny café culture at its best…

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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EVERY FRIDAY

The Kilkenny

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Observer Dear little Ireland kilkennyobserver.ie

WE has the fourth highest land price and fifth highest land rental price in the EU, according to figures released by the European Commission. At just over €25,000/ha in 2020, land prices in Ireland came in behind the Netherlands, Luxembourg and Italy. The average price of purchasing one hectare of arable land was most expensive in the Netherlands (an average

of €69,632). In fact, the price of arable land in every region of the Netherlands was above all other available national averages in the EU. That said , among the EU regions for which data is available, the most expensive prices for arable land were in the Canaries region of Spain (an average of €120,477 per hectare in 2020). Arable land was cheapest in Croatia, with a hectare

costing an average of €3,440 in 2020. At the regional level, a hectare of arable land cost least in the Övre Norrland region of Sweden (an average of €1,822 in 2020). From the figures available, the strongest purchase price growth between 2011 and 2020 for a hectare of arable land was in Romania and Czech Republic (both over a five-fold increase). Other sharp rises were recorded for

Estonia and Lithuania (both about a three-and-a-halffold increase, albeit remaining among the lowest national averages in the EU), and Bulgaria, Hungary and Poland (both more than doubling). Prices rose in most other member states too, albeit at much lower rates. At €322/ha in 2020, Irish grassland rental prices have increased by almost 25pc in the last four years and are

now fifth highest in the EU. Annual rental prices of agricultural land (arable or permanent grassland) also vary starkly between countries and regions within countries. Renting arable land or permanent grassland was most expensive in Italy (an average of €837/ha per year), closely followed by the Netherlands (an average of €819).

Another variant on the way

A new Covid-19 variant, Omicron XE, is expected in Ireland and is mixture of the Omicron BA.1 and BA.2 strains and known as a ‘recombinant’ variant, meaning it brings together multiple mutations. No distinguished features of the XE variant have been listed so far, but symptoms may be similar to previous Omicron strains.

An Taisce to pay in Glanbia case The Supreme Court has refused an application from An Taisce for 25% of its legal costs spent fighting An Bord Pleanála’s planning permission for Glanbia’s Kilkenny cheese plant. In a ruling, the court directed the parties involved in the dispute to pay their own legal fees. Full story, Page 6

Nurturing the seeds of change: Five-year-old Johanna Widmann at the launch of Social Entrepreneurs Ireland (SEI) inviting applications from people across the country who have an innovative idea to solve a social problem. Photo: Mark Stedman Full story, Page 22

Refugees: sorry, no rooms at the inn OUR capacity to house Ukrainian refugees is nearing exhaustion, with a shortage of beds anticipated and as many as 10,000 people having no accommodation at all by the end of the month, the Cabinet has been warned. Ministers have been that, with an average of 580 refugees arriving every day, around 5,000 additional EVERY FRIDAY

beds will be needed by Easter to meet demand. This will be on top of those already identified across hotels, B&Bs, guesthouses, State facilities and from people who have pledged vacant homes and rooms. The Cabinet was told the capacity for the State to accommodate refugees is now “nearing exhaustion” and that the continuing trajecto-

The Kilkenny

Observer UNIT 7, FRIARY STREET, KILKENNY, R95 VHY7

ry of arrivals gives rise to the “high risk of an acute lack of short-term, including emergency, accommodation” with up to 19,000 people seeking a place to stay. Separately, the Irish Refugee Council has said unoccupied holiday homes should be prioritised — ahead of shared homes — for accommodating refugees, and called on the Government to

look at long-term solutions. Meanwhile 60% of offers of accommodation for Ukrainian refugees which have been pledged by the public may not be suitable for use. There have been 20,719 offers made to the Irish Red Cross and these are being assessed. However, the Cabinet has been told that it is likely that between 50% and 60% of

properties pledged by the public will not be suitable for use. The latest estimates are that the number of arrivals by Easter could be up to 32,000. The primary challenge remains supply of suitable accommodation for arrivals. Paul Hopkins, Page 8 Analysis, Page 15

Carey facing more court charges Catriona Carey, the former Irish hockey player embroiled in an alleged mortgage scam that may have affected at least 30 people, has had two motoring prosecutions against her adjourned until next month. Convicted fraudster Carey (43) did not appear at Kilkenny District Court to face the charges of driving without insurance or a licence on December 10 last year in a 202KK registered BMW 420. Full story, Page 6

INSIDE

Paul Hopkins....................P8 Marianne Heron............P12 John Ellis ........................P16 Health & Science...........P18 Travel & Leisure............P19 Gerry Cody .....................P24 Food & Drink .................P42 TV & Streaming ............P43 Picture Special .......P32 - 33 Sport ............................46 - 47

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GETTING IN TOUCH WITH THE TEAM

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

News IRELAND’S former rugby ace Paul O’Connell has joined with Barnardos children’s charity to launch a brand-new local and national school campaign – The Barnardos Big Active, supported by Aldi. This school-focused campaign is designed to help students of all ages and abilities in Kilkenny City and county to be resilient in dealing with stress and anxiety, and to take care of their physical and mental wellbeing. Barnardos wants schools across Kilkenny to register at www.thebigactive.ie and get active to raise funds for vulnerable children across Ireland. Participating schools in your area can choose from a range of activities based on the body, mind and heart. • Body: Physical challenges that take care of your body. • Mind: Mindfulness exercises to support positive mental health and wellbeing. • Heart: Promoting the importance of charity by helping others. Teachers will receive all materials to support activities including personal journals for each student to track their progress. Paul O’Connell said: “The best thing for me about this campaign is that is gives children the opportunity to take part in activities that will benefit them in a holistic way – Barnardos has always focused on every part of the child and as an ambassador of theirs for more than 10 years

Big and healthy: from left, Ana Rubia Marques Da Hora, (9), Oscar McDonald, (6), Paul O’Connell, Elodie Curry, (9) and Romeo Wusu, (10) © Patrick Bolger Photography

Rugby’sPaultakethemthroughthehealthyhoops I can hand on heart say how beneficial the Big Active will be for children across Ireland. “Being physically active is so good for them, and the added areas of mental health and mindfulness techniques and doing something good for

vulnerable children completes the package. I urge teachers and schools to think of how much this new initiative could benefit their students, and sign up today at www.thebigactive. ie,” he said. Barnardos CEO Suzanne

Connolly said: “We know the past two years has impacted on the general wellbeing of children across the country. This is why Barnardos, with the support of Paul and Aldi, have created a campaign with children’s wellbeing at its core.

“By taking part in The Barnardos Big Active, students will learn to observe the affect that exercise has on their mental and physical health. They will learn how to incorporate age appropriate anxiety reducing exercises into their daily lives

and that giving back to your community can be rewarding for themselves as much as others,” she said. “All funds raised will go towards Barnardos work with vulnerable children and their families.”

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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An Taisce to pay costs in Glanbia courtcase THE Supreme Court has refused an application from An Taisce for 25% of its legal costs spent fighting An Bord Pleanála’s planning permission for Glanbia’s Kilkenny cheese plant. In a ruling, the court directed the parties involved in the dispute to pay their own legal fees.

While there is “no doubt at all” that the appeal raised very important and fundamental issues of environmental law, the court did not consider the case an exceptional class where an award of partial or full costs could be made in its favour. The court said it “must not overlook the fact that the ap-

plicant actually lost the appeal”. In February, the five-judge court dismissed An Taisce’s appeal over the board’s approval of the €140m Slieverue factory, which is to be developed under a joint venture between Glanbia and its Dutch partner Royal-A-Ware. An Task, the National Trust

Carey motor offences case is put back for a month CATRIONA Carey, the former Irish hockey player embroiled in an alleged mortgage scam that may have affected at least 30 people, has had two motoring prosecutions against her adjourned until next month. Convicted fraudster Carey (43) did not appear at Kilkenny District Court yesterday to face the charges of driving without insurance or a licence on December 10 last year in a 202KK registered BMW 420. At the time of the offences Carey had accumulated 12 penalty points for two offences of speeding and two offences of driving while holding a mobile phone. These resulted in her being disqualified from driving for six months from November 8, 2021, to May 8, 2022. Judge Geraldine Carthy adjourned the proceedings until May 17 after an application by Carey’s solicitor. Garda Thomas Loughnane, of the Roads Policing Unit in Kilkenny, did not object to the application. Carey, of Weir View Hill, Kilkenny, has been accused of scamming more than 30 people out of thousands of euro after offering to buy debt from their lenders at a discount. She runs a company called Careysfort Asset Estates, which is registered in the UK and has been the subject of multiple complaints to gardaí. RTÉ Investigates has reported how around €400,000 from clients of her company

was paid into the company account but in February just €488.10 remained. It was revealed how more than €200,000 deposited by desperate homeowners into a business account controlled by Carey was allegedly spent on personal items and services. The biggest spend using funds from the company account came on July 21, 2020, for the purchase of a BMW at a cost of €55,226. Gardaí are investigating a number of alleged fraud incidents relating to the activities of a business owned by the Kilkenny woman. Last month Gardaí seized the BMW car from a property in Wexford near Courtown where Carey had been staying. A week before that, Gardaí carried out a search at her home in Kilkenny and seized a number of documents. Carey was convicted of fraud in February 2020 after altering a cheque she received from a client who had hired her as his accountant. She changed a cheque for €6,948 which had been made out to the Revenue’s collector general, instead making it payable to herself, and cashed it at a bank in Kilkenny. She received an eightmonth suspended sentence. She was also fined €1,500 in 2008 after knowingly producing an incorrect invoice to Revenue. Carey was further convicted of claiming VAT back that she was not entitled to in 2006.

€30,000 for fire victim family More than €30,000 has been raised to help the family of a Kilkenny man who died in a tragic house fire. Oliver Brennan (66), an uncle of Kilkenny Senior Camogie manager Brian Dowl-

ing, died in the devastating blaze that ripped through his home on Wednesday, March 23. His older brother Dominic (76) was hospitalised and has been left homeless.

for Ireland, then sought 25pc of its legal costs as against the planning board or the State. It submitted its challenge was taken in the public interest and was a “test case” in nature, said the court. It said it had no financial interest in the outcome and took the proceedings purely to protect the environment and to

vindicate European and national environmental law. The planning board and the Attorney General opposed An Taisce’s costs application. The Attorney had already agreed to abide by his own costs. Although a state body, An Bord Pleanála has no constitutional role and no responsibility for making the national or

EU legislation it is called upon to apply, said the court. This sets it apart from other constitutional cases against the State where costs have been awarded to the unsuccessful applicant, the court said. February’s court ruling ended a two-year battle over the fate of the proposed factory.

Get knitted ...

Monica Dunne and grandchildren Lucy Hayes (age 9) and Billy Hayes age 5 as they launch the Kilkenny Arts Office ‘Knitted Together 3’ project, which sees 100s volunteers crocheting and knitting together to raise vital funds for charity. The event will take place for the very first time in-person this year. Sign up at www.kilkennyartsoffice.ie Photo: Patrick Browne

Google warns against data centre ban GOOGLE has warned that any ban on developing data centres in Ireland must be avoided and would seriously impede the country’s transformation into a digital and green economy. In a detailed submission to the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU), the tech giant said any moratorium on data centre development needed to be avoided “at all costs”. Google said it would send the “wrong signal” about Ireland’s ambitions as a digital economy and risked impeding businesses that wanted

to use cloud computing services. Google said it wanted to continue to invest in data centre infrastructure in the country, but a moratorium would “render this impossible”. The multinational warned that data centres in Dublin needed to be able to depend on access to the electricity network and that any “uncertainty” on this was “bad for business”. Google said any changes in data centre policy planned by the CRU needed to be temporary in nature as longer-term

solutions for Ireland’s electricity crunch were identified. In the submission, it called for more transparency over where there was existing electricity capacity in the Irish network, adding that there needed to be greater clarity and openness over Eirgrid projections on forecasting the growth of data centre electricity usage. Google proposed a new tariff system for data centre operators who reserved more capacity than they ultimately needed, or were too slow to grow into that capacity. “Transmission charging

can be designed such that consumers whose demand is not increasing towards their maximum reservation are charged more than those that demonstrate each year that they are growing,” it said. The submission also said that while it understood Ireland’s current electricity supply issues, these could be rectified with a longer-term approach. Google was particularly concerned about any plans to block off data centre development on a regional basis or in Dublin, saying this carried its own risks

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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The Fact Of The Matter PAUL HOPKINS

Just when we thought it was safe to go out again Back in October, inflation in countries sharing the euro rose, almost unnoticed, to 4.1% from 3.4% a month earlier. Unnoticed, because most of us had our eyes on making sure Christmas would be so much better than the miserable one the first pandemic year. And it was a good one — for me, quite memorable, despite the niggling at the back of my brain that I sure was paying so much more for the tank full of home-heating kerosene. And I sure was not alone with that particular niggling. Just when we thought it was safe to go out again, along comes the triple whammy. First, the dogged coronavirus blew back into town, a new variant that may not be as deadly but is much more infectious. As I write, globally the number of cases have rocketed. The four-day shenanigans that was St Pat-

rick’s weekend didn’t do us any favours, nor does that fact the take-up on vaccines for children has been low. The experts are concerned that the over-70s are once again vulnerable as, too, are our many care homes where the rogue is rampant. Although scientists won’t say it, it seems that as a nation we have thrown the face-mask in with the towel and put paid to almost all the measures that were showing some light at the end of the tunnel. If I had a euro for every time I have heard someone say the past two months, “I’m sick to the teeth of this Covid”, I’d be a wealthy man. But I wouldn’t judge them. Our health workers — those angels among us — are again under pressure with so many out sick and the treatment of other patients with other illnesses once more on the long finger. There are some

900,000 such patients on waiting lists of more than a year. Our health service has been under pressure for many years, due, in part, to lack of joined-up thinking among those who run the show and the lack of proper remuneration — Paul Reid aside — to fill many vacancies in the HSE and its affiliates. Cue, the fact that children in Ireland have been medically prescribed antidepressants on more than 30,000 occasions in the past 10 years, according to new figures. In just under one-third of these cases — 8,998 — the children were aged 11 and under, according to the data released the other week under the Freedom of Information Act. Our health service is further fragmenting and it is frightening. And the enduring stress and anxiety caused by the triple whammy will see growing mental health issues

for many for decades. A silent pandemic. Whammy No. 2 arrived overnight when Vladimir Putin attempted to invade Ukraine, shouting down the NATO alliance, and declaring war not just on defiant Ukrainian forces but on civilian men, women and children when his plan did not go according to plan. And we watch this horror on the myriad ‘breaking news’ outlets. It has upped the ante on our fears factor, sparking anxious debates and conversations about the potential for a chemical war or nuclear one. The war in Ukraine is right on our doorstep and my money is on it being a protracted affair. It also raises huge questions about Ireland’s neutrality and the future picture for the Western alliance and the EU. It has sparked a refugee crisis, the scale of which has

not been seen in Europe since WW11. We are expecting 40,000 souls by end of April, 10,000 already here, and a mooted 100,000 in the final analysis. All this, despite our generosity of spirit, putting a further burden on an economy in crisis, in our health service,

‘We have thrown the face-mask in with the towel...

”

the housing fiasco and now the soaring cost of living. The final whammy. Price rises rises are expected to peak at around 8.5% this summer, according to the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI). Inflation has not been at that level here since 1984. Wages and Government supports are unlikely to keep pace with average inflation of 6.7% for the year. This means disposable income could fall by around 2%, the ESRI warned in its quarterly forecast. The war on Ukraine will put further strain on oil and gas, cereal, cooking oil, fertiliser and metals exports from Russia and Ukraine. This will see further price hikes in home heating, transport, electronic goods, building materials and basic foods such as bread and pasta. We may even see rationing. This ‘new normal’ ain’t going away anytime soon...

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

News

2,000 artists get basic pay of €325 A NEW basic income for the Arts pilot scheme will see 2,000 artists and creative arts workers to receive €325 a week. The project was the number one recommendation of the Arts and Culture Recovery Task Force. The Government has described it as "a transformative initiative for the arts and creative practice".

The scheme will open for applications on Tuesday, April 12. Taoiseach Micheál Martin said over the course of the pandemic the Arts took on a new significance and artists, writers and musicians had a challenging time with venues closed and audiences kept away. He said that "at this time of greatest challenge their

output was never more highly prized". Mr Martin said that, as a society "we need to invest in that which sustains us, without artists dedication to their practice we would be much poorer as a people, and this is what the basic income pilot scheme is about, the recognition of time spent on creative practice".

The Chair of National Campaign for the Arts said she hopes the eligibility to qualify for the basic income will be broad and that the final selection is randomised, rather than on a competitive basis. Speaking on RTÉ's Morning Ireland, Angela Doran said: "I think today marks probably the most momentous indication of how Ire-

Diesel curbs to hit farmers with silage cutting FARMERS may be "at risk” of not getting their silage cut this year as many contractors are facing quantity restrictions when buying green diesel. "Deliveries are restricted, there's no doubt about it,” said Michael Moroney, CEO at Association of Farm and Forestry Contractors in Ireland (FCI). "We are getting anecdotal evidence from some of our members that they are facing delivery restrictions.” It comes after the FCI has called on the Government to "ring fence” 200 million litres of green diesel in preparation for

land values its artists, probably since, you know, the establishment of the Arts Council who celebrate their 70th birthday this year." She said the eligibility criteria should be easy to get through and she hopes that there will be "multiple boxes to tick" in terms of eligibility. Ms Dorgan said that most artists live under the pov-

erty line and work in cycles. She explained that if an artist has a successful project during the three years of this pilot scheme they would pay a high tax on those profits. "If you sell that brilliant painting or that album you made goes to number one, you pay 40% tax on the first euro you make from that," she said.

And they call it puppy love...

the next silage season. "I talked to one contractor who needs 10,000L of fuel to get crops in over the next 10 days, but has only been given 1,500L,” said TD Colm Burke. Meanwhile, Mr Moroney said with around 700 self-propelled silage harvesters in the country, each burning on average 3,000L of diesel a day, 90,000 million litres of diesel is needed just to make pit silage alone this year. "In the absence of 200 million litres being ring-fenced, silage season is at risk and we will have a problem,” said Mr Moroney.

One in six not getting 'enough' protein Eighteen percent of County Kilkenny adults believe they do not eat enough protein, a new national survey has found. The research, conducted among 1,000 people over-18

by iReach, paid particular attention to protein in adult diets. It found that in Kilkenny, 18% believe they do not eat enough protein which can lead to muscle loss.

PETMANIA Kilkenny has reintroduced its free Puppy Care classes in association with Seven grain-free nutrition. The classes are designed for those who recently got or who are about to get a new puppy. To help integrate a new furry friend into the family, and set up a lifetime of good habits, Petmania will share everything puppy owners need to know to care for, feed and protect the well-being of a new dog. The classes are free to attend and take place at Petmania stores nationwide on the second Saturday of every month, starting on Saturday, April 9. Spaces are limited and registering in advance is essential via https://www.petmania. ie/puppy-care-class. Each participant will receive a free puppy care-pack worth €30. Delivered by trained Pet

Care Advisors, the hour-long class covers Petmania’s five pillars of pet care: 1. Diet and nutrition for puppies 2. Grooming 3. Dental care 4. Parasite control 5. Exercise and play Petmania’s experts will also advice on house training and things to consider settling a puppy into its new home. It also advises on essential products needed for new puppies. Greg Maternik of Petmania Kilkenny told The Kilkenny Observer: “Receiving a new puppy is a big responsibility and with the reality of work and school, it can be overwhelming for new pet families. Petmania Care Classes provide puppy owners with expert guidance on all aspects of a puppy’s health,

diet, training and grooming. "It has been more than two years since we were able to host our monthly Puppy Care Classes and the whole team is excited to welcome pet parents back into the store. We’ll take every precaution to ensure that the classes are run safely and comfortably for both puppy and its human companion.” Those registering for the Puppy Care Classes will also get free membership to the Pet-mania Puppy Club offering timely advice and guidance on the puppy’s all-important developmental milestones throughout its first year. Those that join the Petmania Puppy Club get exclusive access to discounts, care advice, and step-by-step guidance through puppy’s first year. For more visit: www. petmania.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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Opinion AS I SEE IT MARIANNE HERON

Sometimes where to draw the line when it comes to gender can be quite confusing. Take two recent issues. How do you respond to the question, “Can a woman have a penis?” which was put to the UK labour leader Sir Kier Starmer recently. And who do you think was most in the wrong when Will Smith slapped Chris Rock at the Oscars after the comedian made a joke about Will’s wife, Jada Pinkett Smith’s, shaved head. The question was put to Starmer in the context of gender identity in a radio interview. A flustered Starmer ducked the point and replied: “I don’t think discussing the issue in this way helps anyone.” Maybe he hadn’t thought the issue through. Until recently a woman was defined as an adult female capable of bearing children between puberty and menopause. Today the definition is wider and considered in non-binary terms, rather than a male/ female divide. Those who have transitioned from being male to being female unquestionably wish to be identified as women, whether or not they have undergone surgical or hormonal treatment. Unlike Starmer, Boris Johnson made his view clear

In defence of women... and that Oscar slap in the House of Commons earlier this month. “We must recognise that when people want to make a transition in their lives they should be treated with the maximum possible generosity and respect.” Though, he continued: “When it comes to distinguishing between man and woman the basic facts of

biology remain overwhelmingly important.” So where should the line be drawn when it comes to a trans individual identifying as a woman competing in women’s sport? This is where those basic facts of biology need to be considered, a point which was raised recently by Sonia O’Sullivan after swimmer Lia Thomas became

Good luck? Bad luck? Who can say? ANDREW MCDONALD HYPNOTHERAPIST

WE all experience bad luck. Events do, however, also take favourable turns for us. A problem many people have is the enjoyment of these occasions is fleeting, whereas the pain of being “unlucky” endures. This encourages negative thinking. There was once an old man in China. Well, the fact that he was Chinese is not integral to the story, but given that’s where this tale first emerged, we’ll head to the land of the red dragon. Actually, as a Welshman, I object to that nickname!!! Red dragons are known to fly around Snowdonia too!!! Anyway... This old man had a small village farm, a strong son and a horse. The son and the horse were vital to him in running the farm. Without them, his farm would fail and he would starve. One day, the worst happened! The horse ran away! All the villagers came to

commiserate. “What bad luck! You won’t be able to run your farm now, the harvest will go to waste and you will starve!” Anybody thinking the villagers could have actually helped the old man by lending him their horses? The old man responded: “Good luck? Bad luck? Who can say?” The next day, the horse came back with two beautiful, powerful stallions. Again the villagers visited the old man. “What good fortune! You now have three horses where you only had one! You’ll be able to do three times as much work and will surely become rich!” The old man responded: “Good luck? Bad luck? Who can say?” The two stallions were wild and needed breaking in. The strong son set about the task. Whilst doing so, he fell and broke his leg. Yet again, the villagers came to the old man. “You have suffered a great misfortune! You are too old to do the work yourself! Without your son, you will lose your harvest and starve!”

Apparently, the same villagers who didn’t think to loan the old man their horses didn’t have any children who could help him either. The old man responded: “Good luck? Bad luck? Who can say?” A couple of days passed by and the Emperor came to demand all firstborn sons to fight in a war with a neighbouring land. Seeing the old man’s son with a broken leg, he decided to leave him behind. The villagers were seething with jealousy. “You lucky old man! Your son got to stay and won’t die fighting! You will be able to keep your farm!” The old man responded: “Good luck? Bad luck? Who can say?” The reality is, we never know whether things are truly lucky or unlucky because one event often flows into another. Treat your own fortune with neutrality like the old man, and see how things play out. If nothing else, you will save yourself a lot of anxiety worrying about fate.

the first transgender champion winning a 500 yards freestyle in Pennsylvania. When boys develop as men they gain a physical advantage over women, generally they become stronger and bigger than females. These advantages remain unchanged despite the change of identification and regardless of whether or not a transitioning individual

retains male genitalia. Can an individual biologically born male compete fairly with women? Is it fair to women’s sport where women compete against others of the same gender? A line needs to be drawn here. In the case for the Oscar slap, Chris Rock made reference to Jada’s shorn look caused by her alopecia: “Jada, can’t

wait for GI Jane 2.” Smith’s response was to storm on stage, slap Chris and shout: “Keep my wife’s name out of your f---ing mouth.” The reaction of the media was to castigate Smith who was receiving his first Oscar for his portrayal of Richard Williams, father of tennis stars Serena and Venus Williams in the film King Richard. Smith had to apologise, is facing calls that he be stripped of his award and an investigation by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Little has been said about the offensiveness of Rock’s remarks: an entirely inappropriate and tasteless comment on someone’s physical appearance. Apparently, the remarks were unscripted and would have been removed by the organisers had they known in advance about the vicious jibe. Why hasn’t Rock been called out on this? Interestingly, in a US poll carried out by Blue Rock Research a majority (52% ) thought that Rock was more in the wrong although it would have been more appropriate if Smith had come to his wife’s defence verbally without swearing. But consider this: there is a long tradition of women slapping men in the face when they say something offensive. If Jada had stormed on stage to deliver that slap rather than her husband the audience at the Oscar might well have cheered her. Just where do you draw the line?

Healing with dandelions and nettles CLAIR WHITTY

DANDELIONS, are they weeds or herbal healers? According to ancient folklore dandelion is helpful as a bitter tonic, a laxative, and was valued for liver, gallbladder, and urinary problems. It was traditionally used to treat warts by applying the milk from the stem a couple of times a day. Today it’s used in herbal medicine to stimulate the flow of bile and to improve liver function and. Many use it as a natural diuretic. Dandelions are a source of potassium, calcium, manganese, sodium, and phosphorus. I think nearly all of you will have been stung by a nettle at some point. They cause a pretty painful sting. Many people consider nettles a weed too, but they’ve have been used for centuries in herbal medicine. Nettles stimulate the kidneys and are known for their diuretic properties. They are used to purify the blood, stimulate metabolism, and flush out waste products from the body. They are also

used to reduce over-acidity in the blood making them useful for some arthritic conditions like gout, and can help some skin conditions like eczema. They’re reputed to have natural antihistamine-like ingredients, which makes them useful for urticaria, or nettle rash as it’s commonly called and hayfever symptoms. If you have nettles in your garden or in a field near your house, spring time is a great time to bring some in to make a brew or to add them to soups or stews. Nettles are a natural

source of iron. As well as gathering dandelions and nettles from your garden when in season, you could also try some ready-made herbal teas. I always choose Salus Haus herbal teas when I want a tea which is of a good strength. For something more potent you could take a look at Salus Haus Herbal Juices. The difference between these juices, plants from the garden, and herbal teas is that these juices are freshly squeezed from the plant. Nothing taken away, you all the goodness of the plant in the bottle. These plant juices capture the whole synergistic complex of healing ingredients from the plant. Off course some of you will prefer tablets or capsules and these are available all year round. If you love nature, you’ll be interested to take a look at this range of juices. Shop online at www. naturalhealthstore.ie where you’ll be able to take a look at these brands. Natural Health Store, Market Cross Shopping Centre Phone: 056 7764538 Email: info@ naturalhealthstore.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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Finding myself and my son again in my search for the human spirit BY PETER DONNO ------------------------------I lived through a tumultuous time when writing A Manual For The Human Spirit. I had always wanted to write a book about the energy of the human spirit for as long as I could remember. But I never had the time or energy! Then, in 2019 I lost a court case and my young fouryear-old son was taken from the UK to live in Ireland. I felt betrayed and my world collapsed into negative energy as I fell into a vortex of depression, where I had many dark thoughts. For months, I was on the floor. Then came a vision that would change my life: I felt separated from myself and unable to cope or survive I was drowning in a sea of depression, when from the deck of a passing ship, I was thrown a life line. I realised I had an opportunity to either be defined by what had just happened or what I was going to do next! I grabbed the opportunity and was given the energy to stand up. Thirty years of research papers, books and diagrams about the human energy system were pulled from every corner of my past. I surrendered to my spirit and became inspired to write a book from a scientific and spiritual perspective about how we transform energy and how we can use it to change our life. Maintaining a relationship with a four-yearold on line was hard enough but now with Covid commuting back and forth from the UK to Ireland became unbearable (for many reasons). However, my relationship with my son was at stake and

Peter Donno recently finished writing and had printed in Kilkenny a book called A Manual For The Human Spirit. It is for sale in Kilkenny at Khans and Kilkenny Book Centre. Here he tells how, when and the circum stances of writing the book.

‘Unable to cope or survive, I was drowning..

for legal reasons I had to be self isolated and in Ireland for September 2020. But now I was connected to my spirit and fully energised. Realising the situation and at 62 years old, over a four-week period, I sold everything I could and gave the rest to charity. I exchanged my Mercedes convertible for (the first of three) pick-up trucks, I brought a caravan and loaded them both with my sons toys, my tools and an office full of books and research papers. I Put Winnie The Poo in my son’s child seat as a travelling companion and left for Ireland. I kept telling myself what ever happens on this adventure is meant to be and I must surrender my fear, ego and nonsense to my spirit. And, apart from; the near death experience on the UK motorway, the first engine blowing up in the Welsh mountains, the storm in the Irish Sea, the second engine overheating in Dublin, self isolating in a caravan in Galway the lock downs, shortage of housing in Kilkenny and now living in a mobile home just outside Kilkenny City... it was a piece of cake! I was truly helped by people who showed nothing but kindness and for that I am humbled and grateful. However, saying all that, this is the last time I get rid of almost everything I owned, emigrate to another country in four weeks, in dodgy pickups, through a storm, during Brexit, a global pandemic and a housing crisis! But, within that adventure I found the time and energy to write: A Manual For The Human Spirit and see more of my son. Onwards and upwards as I am now producing a video version of the book for various platforms, an education module and a stage show all about the human energy system and the science of staying positive. * See https://www. multiversalenergy.com

Pharma giant MSD plans big plant for Co Carlow PHARMA giant MSD, which is part of the US group Merck, is planning to build a manufacturing facility in Co Carlow which could create more than 100 long-term jobs. Late last month, MSD submitted a planning application to Carlow County Council to develop the facility, with a decision due in May this year.

The application states that MSD is looking to build a sterile manufacturing facility at the site of its existing biologics formulation and filling facility in Carlow. The Sunday Independent reports it is understood that, if the planning application is successful, MSD could create more than 100 long-term jobs

and more than 600 construction jobs at the site. Planning documents filed alongside the application show MSD plans for the development to have a total gross floor area of over 1.9 acres. It will include a new twostorey building, incorporating production suites, utilities,

a warehouse, workshops, laboratories, offices, and plant rooms. Recently, MSD has been investing significantly in its Irish operations. Last May, it was reported that MSD planned to build a new €140m manufacturing facility linked to an existing plant in Ballydine, Co Tip-

perary. The plant was subsequently approved in August. It also submitted plans to develop a large solar farm to help power its Ballydine plant — an investment potentially worth more than €5m. The solar farm, which was granted planning permission last month, could contribute 15% of MSD Ballydine’s electri-

cal energy and offset over 3.4 million kilograms of CO2 per annum. However, last month MSD said it was to lay off 70 people at its plant in Brinny, Co Cork. MSD Ireland has a team of more than 2,800 employees across its sites in Ballydine, Brinny, Carlow, Dunboyne in Co Meath and Dublin.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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Ukraine Invasion

Zelensky’s extraordinary rise on the world stage UKAINE’S Volodymyr Zelensky (pictured with his wife Olena) went from political comedian to political icon in a remarkably short time. And his unique skill set has made him the leader that Ukraine — and the world— needs right now. “The fight is here. I need ammunition, not a ride.” With those 10 words, President Zelensky served notice from the earliest days of the Ukraine-Russia war that he was a different kind of leader “The President is here,” Zelensky said in a selffilmed video, surrounded by his ministers on a darkened street in Kyiv the day after it was first bombed. This proved that the Russian rumours that he had fled Ukraine and left his people to fight alone were patently false. “We are all here. Our soldiers are here. The citizens are here. And we are here. We will defend our independence—that’s how it will go. Glory to our defenders, both men and women. Glory to Ukraine.” Zelensky has shown himself to be the leader Ukraine needs at this crucial moment in its history, even if it surprises many of the Ukrainians who voted for him. How he went from being a comedian to a modern-day Winston Churchill in just a few short years is a journey few could have predicted, but many experts say his past prepared him well for the dangerous present. Now, he’s standing his ground against an army eight times the size of Ukraine’s, doing his best to make sure his country remains free, and rallying other nations to help Ukraine and Ukrainian refugees. And the world is watching.

Zelensky was born in 1978 in the southern Ukrainian city of Kryvyy Rih to a Jewish family that lost many members in the Holocaust and fighting in the Soviet Red Army against the Nazis. Like most Ukrainians, he spoke Russian growing up. He attended the Kryvyy Rih Economic Institute, graduating with a law degree in 2000. However, a legal career was not in the cards. While in school, Zelensky fell in love with acting and founded the comedy troupe Kvartal 95, which became famous after an appearance on a popular competition show televised throughout the Russian-speaking world. After that, Zelensky’s acting career took off, and he often played an overmatched everyman who succeeds above his station in life and love. In 2015, his production company created Sluga Narodu, or Servant of the People. In it, he played a high school teacher whose frustrated rant against government corruption is secretly recorded by a student and then goes viral, delivering to him an unexpected (and unwanted) victory in the country’s presidential election. A political outsider trying to make a difference The show’s popularity, and its resonance with an audience tired of a culture of corruption that served the super rich and left the rest of the country struggling on the economic margins, inspired Zelensky to run against then-President Petro Poroshenko in 2019. Using an unorthodox campaign style — avoiding stump speeches and policy papers in favour of comedy bits and short videos posted online — Zelensky claimed the

presidency with a stunning 73 percent of the vote. But that wasn’t necessarily a testament to Zelensky’s popularity. A lot of people voted for Zelensky because they hated Poroshenko. Prior to Putin’s attacks, Zelensky’s presidency was a mixed bag of results. He notably replaced a number of government officials with other outsiders, many of them colleagues from his show-business career. While some initially saw this as a needed housecleaning, many of these political novices soon appeared to be in over their heads. Though Zelensky was never directly accused of corruption, scandals plagued his presidency, and this, along with his failure to stop the ongoing fighting with Russia-backed separatists in eastern Ukraine, led to low approval ratings. And then, on February 24, 2022, Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, setting the stage for Zelesnky to become a different type of leader — and the hero that Ukrainians, and perhaps all of us, need right now. Since Russian missiles began falling on Kyiv, Kharkiv, Odessa, and other cities throughout Ukraine, Zelensky has been a visible advocate for his people both domestically and on the global stage. He has encouraged them to show strength in the face of a relentless, brutal attack, while also prodding the international community to do more to help Ukraine survive the onslaught and repel Russia. This type of leadership may not seem unusual for the president of a war-torn country, but Zelensky’s style is distinctive and revolutionary.

When Putin went ‘literally insane’ RUSSIAN oligarch Vladimir Putin went “literally insane” after his invading troops weren’t greeted “with flowers” by Ukrainian citizens, it has been claimed in media reports. Exiled Russian billionaire Mikhail Khodorkovsky (pictured) said the war-mongering president was baffled when residents of Kharkiv didn’t welcome their occupiers with open arms.

The country’s second city has been subjected to devastating heavy shelling, with Kremlin forces being held off but in close enough range for lethal strikes. It comes amid reports Putin is frantically re-thinking his attack strategy in a bid to avoid a humiliating defeat as Moscow forces continue to stutter. Some experts have also claimed the leader and former Soviet KGB intelligence officer

is being misinformed by advisers who are simply telling him what he wants to hear out of fear of imprisonment. Khodorkovsky said Ukraine could see off the invasion if the West supported it. Defending troops, who’ve managed to hold off the Russians for nearly two months, have been helped by the regular supply of modernised weaponry from various Nato nations.

Exiled Khodorkovsky told CNN the situation for Putin was “very complicated”. “At first, what he wanted was to change the power in Kyiv, put in his puppet, and was expecting that this would be met with flowers thrown in the streets by Ukrainian people. “When this did not happen, he went crazy. “The fact that the people in Kharkiv did not meet him with flowers, it not only just an-

gered him, I really think it drove him literally insane. That’s when he started bombing Kharkiv and Kyiv.” Khodorkovsky was previously named Russia’s richest man in 2003 but was sentenced to nine years in prison two years later for fraud and tax evasion. He was pardoned by Putin and released in 2013, but is adamant his imprisonment was politically motivated. He now lives in London.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

Your Money BY JOHN ELLIS FINANCIAL ADVISOR

IN March 2022 Webdoctor.ie, Ireland’s leading online GP service, compiled the National Health Watch Report in which they surveyed more than 1,600 people across Ireland. The report covered various areas of health, including physical health, diet and nutrition, smoking and alcohol consumption, and mental health. According to the report six in 10 people (59%) consider themselves healthy while 23% feel that their physical health worsened during the pandemic. Overall, 89% of people plan to prioritise their health more in the next six months, with 30% expressing an interest in doing so by spending more time outdoors with just 10% saying they will do so by going to the gym. The report also reveals key insights into the changing outlook around digital healthcare. It shows how we are now using ‘telehealth’ methods in conjunction with the traditional visit to the GP, thus providing an all-inclusive approach to caring for our health. 95% said they would be comfortable having an online consultation with a GP, with 60% even going as far as saying that they are more comfortable utilising online

The changing Irish attitudes to our health

GP services. When it comes to our sexual health. 77% of people prefer to use home-testing kits for sexual health checks, while less than one quarter (23%) of people prefer to attend a traditional clinic for the same tests. Of women surveyed 10% say they would prefer an inperson GP consultation when seeking a prescription for the contraceptive pill or patch the

others (90%) would prefer an online service. Of the men surveyed 17% of men feel more comfortable with an in-person GP consultation and the majority (83%) would prefer an online doctor/prescription service when seeking treatment for erectile dysfunction. A total of 42% of people are planning on improving their overall health through their diet and nutritional habits in

the coming six months. A total of 89% state that meat is still a part of their diet, however, 45% would consider reducing their intake or becoming a pescatarian. Of those, a further 10% said they would consider moving to a completely plant-based diet. Almost one quarter (24.4%) of people consume alcohol at least once a week with almost 20% of people saying they would drink alcohol 2-3

times a week. A total of 22% consume alcohol just once a month, with 15% saying they don’t consume alcohol at all. Nearly 40% said their alcohol intake decreased in the past 12 months, 24% say its increased while 38% said it has stayed the same. Up to 40% plan to reduce their alcohol intake over the next six months. Interestedly of those who smoke only 10% of people

surveyed say they smoke daily while 78% of people say they don’t smoke at all. 14% smoke occasionally and of the smokers surveyed three quarters plan to reduce their consumption or quit over the next six months. The mental health of many has suffered due to the pandemic. However, only 22% sought help to address the issue. Again, the online option was to the fore with 87.5% of people stating they would be ‘fairly’ to ‘very’ comfortable receiving treatment for their mental health via an online consultation, if given the choice. And just 12% of people saying they wouldn’t be ‘very’ or ‘at all’ comfortable with online treatment for mental health. David Crimmins, CEO of Webdoctor.ie, said: “It is great to see that so many people are planning to prioritise their health this year, all of which can be supported both virtually and traditionally. The pandemic has encouraged people to find new ways to manage their health, with many utilising telehealth services for the first time.” Attitudes have changed toward telehealth in the past two years and with the use of various online methods of communication there is greater leaning toward digital health options as opposed to attending an in-clinic setting only. John@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362633

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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Science & Wellbeing RESEARCHER have uncovered a genetic link between brain ageing in both canines and humans — and the discovery could also lead to new interventions for dementia. There are 64,142 people currently living with dementia in Ireland. With age being the main risk factor for dementia, this number is expected to rise alongside population ageing to 150,131 by 2045. People living with dementia will require care and support across different care settings. This can also be true for their care partners. Dementia is the term applied to a group of symptoms that negatively impact memory, but Alzheimer’s is a specific progressive disease of the brain that slowly causes impairment in memory and cognitive function. According to a number of reports in the UK media, the breakthrough came about by studying donated brains, muscles, and other tissues stored in a pet dog biobank,. Dogs are a potentially valuable model for human ageing because they’re susceptible to many of the same age-related diseases as us, including dementia, which doesn’t appear to affect many animal species. Environment and lifestyle plays a role in human ageing, too, and because we simply like to have dogs around us, they’re also exposed to many of those same factors. Studying ageing in dogs may uncover new targets for human ageing research, but doing this in a lab setting is challenging. “Medical research often relies on laboratory dogs, but keeping them to study natural ageing would be time-consuming, expensive, and ethically debatYET another breakthrough in the understanding of Alzheimer’s disease could lead to genetic tests to discover which people are at greatest risk of developing the most common form of dementia. A major international study reported that 75 genes were associated with Alzheimer’s – including 42 that had never previously been considered. Experts said the discovery was like finding all the edge pieces for a jigsaw, though the central picture remains unclear. The study, which involved the UK Dementia Research Institute, compared the genomes of 111,326 people with confirmed or suspected Alzheimer’s with 677,663 healthy individuals to look for differences in their genetic makeup. This showed the disease was caused by a multitude of factors – including new evidence implicating a protein called TNF-alpha that is linked to inflammation and the immune system.

‘Studying tissues stored in a pet dog biobank...

of the best ways to study the brain is to actually study the brain. The group decided to establish a pet dog biobank, where donated tissue and brain samples could be stored after the animals passed away. They were relieved and very grateful that many owners said yes. “Linking behaviour, petkeeping conditions, and

molecular data would result in a unique biobank,” researcher Eniko Kubinyi said. “We were relieved and very grateful that many owners said yes.” The pet dog biobank, which now houses 130 donated brains and other tissue samples, is already paying off for ageing research. A new study, published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science, measured the ex-

pression of a gene called CDKN2A in deceased dogs’ brains, skeletal muscles, and skin tissues, as well as in the blood of living dogs. The expression of this gene is suspected of being a biomarker of human ageing. As we age, the level of it in several tissues tends to increase, and they’re particularly high in the brains of people with dementia. The results: The researchers discovered that the levels in older dogs’ brains, muscle tissue, and blood were higher than in younger dogs, with the brain showing the most significant correlation between age and expression — which is also true of people. The study included samples from just 41 dogs, and the researchers couldn’t test tissue samples and blood from the same dogs because all of the animals in the pet dog biobank had been put to sleep with drugs, which would interfere with the blood tests. Still, now that we know the expression of CDKN2A appears to be similar in ageing dogs and humans, researchers may be able to use the knowledge to test interventions in dogs (who age faster than people) that could one day help combat brain ageing and dementia in humans.

Researchers hope the study opens up the possibility for genetic testing to one day be able to identify people most at risk of developing Alzheimer’s

before symptoms appear. Dr Rebecca Sims, UK Dementia Research Institute co-investigator and co-leader of the study, said: “This study more than doubles the number of identified genes influencing risk for the more common form of Alzheimer’s disease. “It provides exciting new targets for therapeutic intervention and advances our ability to develop algorithms to predict who will develop Alzheimer’s in later life.” Professor Julie Williams, centre director at the UK Dementia Research Institute, said the study, in the journal Nature Genetics, was the culmination of 30 years of work. “This piece of work is a major leap forward in our mission to understand Alzheimer’s, and ultimately produce several treatments needed to delay or prevent the disease,” she said. Age and lifestyle factors such as smoking, exercise and diet influence the development of Alzheimer’s. But 60 to 80% of risk is based on inherited genes.

Dr Susan Kohlhaas, director of research at Alzheimer’s Research UK, said: “Creating an extensive list of Alzheimer’s disease risk genes is like having the edge pieces of a puzzle put together, and while this work doesn’t give us the full picture, it provides a valuable framework for future developments. “Using this genomic wide sequencing approach, researchers were able to uncover more evidence that the immune system plays a pivotal role in the development of Alzheimer’s, which gives us clues about the pathways that might be most important to look at in our search for new treatments. The research also, however, tells us just how complex Alzheimer’s is, with several different mechanisms implicated in the development of the disease. “It’s going to take a concerted and global effort to develop life-changing treatments, but this seminal study also gives us hope that research will win, and it gives us the opportunity to work on new treatment targets.”

How a dog’s life may help us understand ageing able,” geneticist Sára Sándor said in a press release. Additionally, lab dogs wouldn’t be exposed to the same external factors as pet dogs. In 1994, researchers at Hungary’s Eötvös Loránd University founded the Family Dog Project to study the relationship between humans and dogs. A spin-off of that project — the Senior Family Dog

Project — launched in 2016 to focus on how the brains of pet dogs age. The hope was that insights from the project would not only help support healthy cognitive ageing in dogs, but also help us understand the biology behind human ageing. They’ve learned a lot about dog ageing through genome research and behavioural studies, but one

A major study finds 75 genes linked to Alzheimer’s The next step is for researchers to examine the role played by the newly-identified genes in the dysfunction and death of brain cells.

It paves the way to using multiple therapies to slow the progress of Alzheimer’s as in heart disease where more than one drug is used.

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Travel & Leisure 1. Barcelona, Spain Boasting over two miles of sandy beaches (main image) a mere 10 minute stroll from the centre of the city, Barcelona is definitely a front runner when it comes to Europe’s best beach city breaks. Not only is it home to beautiful beaches, it also has a thriving culinary scene that’ll make foodies go weak at the knees. Head to La Boqueria, the famous food market to pick up bits for a seaside picnic and lay your towel down on one of the city’s four main beaches. Whether you soak up the sun on Barceloneta Beach, Icaria, Mar Bella or Sitges, you’ll be greeted with some of the best urban beaches in Europe. 2. Amsterdam, Netherlands A melting pot of cool and quirky, Holland’s capital has a lot more to it than canals and cafes. Despite what you might think, Amsterdam has a plethora of real sandy beaches so you can dip your toes in the ocean in between museums trips. And catch a tan and some waves while you’re at it. 3. Warsaw, Poland Taking tips from neighbouring Deutschland, urban beaches have wiggled their way on to the promenades of the Vistula in Warsaw (pictured) turning the landlocked city into a surprising seaside haven. See one of the most atmospheric locations in the historical city covered in artificial sand and trendy beach bars. Complete with wooden decking, parasols and sun loungers to match, you’d never know you were smack bang in the middle of a working metropolis. 4. Nice, France No list of the best beach city breaks could be complete without mentioning the glitz and glamour of the French

REMOTE Working and logging on from anywhere in the world for extended periods of time — otherwise known as a ‘digital nomad’ — has become a new norm in the time of the coronavirus. And now, remote workers may soon be able to take their online meetings with Tuscan hills in the background as Italy is the latest country to join the list of WFH-friendly countries According to the journal The Local, a government decree, known as ‘decreto sostegni ter’ was first introduced in January and voted into law the other week. While the term ‘digital nomads’ doesn’t appear in the bill, the law is aimed at attracting people “who carry out highly qualified work activities through the use of technological tools that allow them to work remotely, autonomously, or for a company that is

Seventh heaven!

Seven great beach holidays Europe

Riviera and where better to experience vie à la mer than in the capital of the region itself, Nice. A rare concoction of Italian and French culture, the cosmopolitan seaside city is packed full of bougie boutiques, [ve star restaurants and quality coastline. Pack your biggest

sun hat, lather on the factor 50 and sunbathe in style at one of the best urban beaches in Europe. 5. Bodrum, Turkey Wander through white washed houses, gorge on seafood at one of many oceanfront restaurants and

bake on the beach when you spend your next minibreak in Bodrum. This Turkish hotspot is made for cosmopolitans looking for a little sea to go with their shopping and is the cream of the crop when it comes to Mediterranean getaways. Featuring twin bays backed by idyllic rolling

pine forests, Bodrum and its sparkling blue ocean is a real sight for sore eyes and not to be missed. 6. Valencia, Spain The city that brought us paella, Valencia is spoilt for choice when it comes to stretches of golden sand,

Fancy working remotely from Italy? not resident in the territory of the Italian state,” Italian news outlet Il Sole 24 Ore has reported. There are still many

unknowns about the conditions under which this new permit would be granted, such as what constitutes “highly

qualified work activities,” for example. Also, under the approved decree non-EU nationals could be granted a one-year permit, which will

not be subject to any foreign worker quota restrictions. Workers would also be able to apply for an extension of the permit.

historical centres, museums and a culinary scene to rival anywhere in the world. A stone’s throw away from the city centre, swim at Las Arenas or venture out a little further to the picture-perfect La Malvarrosa Beach for a day of pure relaxation. A nightlife to be reckoned with and unique culture waiting to be explored, there’s no doubting Spain’s Valencia is one of the best beach city breaks in Europe. Warsaw, Poland

7. Split, Croatia Spend a few days staying in an ancient palace and visit the glistening shores of Croatia’s Split. Home to one of the best preserved pieces of Roman architecture, this urban oasis has a little something for everyone. whether you’re a history buff, party enthusiast or sun, sea and sand seeker, this city on the Adriatic will not disappoint. Step off the plane to turquoise waters backed by dramatic coastal mountains for a city break with a difference. Ryanair flies direct to most of the above

“Requirements for the remote worker are the availability of suitable accommodation, adequate income, health insurance, and a clean criminal record,” Luca Carabetta, an Italian parliament member from the Five Star Movement party, told The Local. The specific details about some of these requirements and their implementation are yet to be defined. Remote workers will also need to meet a minimum income requirement, but the exact amount is unknown yet. As of right now, most foreign citizens are allowed to stay for up to 90 days in Italy. This includes “persons on holiday, those taking professional trips, students registered at an authorised school, or persons performing research or independent study,” according to a government source.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

News

Kilkenny celebrates World Autism Acceptance Day ON Saturday 2nd April, Autism Acceptance Day was celebrated across the globe and closer to home at MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre. The Centre joined forces with Kilkenny ASD Families Network to host a range of activities including art and music therapy and an informational talk while participants were treated to some delicious refreshments kindly sponsored by Starbucks. Centre Assistant Manager Donna Byrne spoke of their delight to host the cel-

ebrations, “ At MacDonagh Junction Shopping Centre we always strive to provide a safe and inclusive space for all of our customers. We recognise that some of our customers may have additional needs and have implemented a number of measures to make their shopping experience here in the Centre a comfortable one; this has included the introduction of autism friendly shopping hours every Sunday from 12pm – 2pm which features lowered

Kilkenny prepares for a final farewell to the ‘Cats’

lighting levels and reduced noise on the mall alongside dedicated car parking spaces. This is in addition to the Centre’s Age Friendly program, installation of a height adjustable changing bench and baby feeding room. It’s been an honour to host the celebrations and reinvigorate the Kilkenny ASD Families Network-a fantastic resource for our community.” For more information on the Kilkenny ASD Families Network please visit their Facebook page.

SCULPTURES TO BE AUC TIONED FOR CHARITY THIS April is the last chance to visit one of the country’s most unique art trails, The Kilkenny Catwalk Art Trail. The Kilkenny Catwalk is a fantastic arts trail of 21 wonderful Kilkenny Cat sculptures which have been decorated by some of Ireland’s most talented artists, mainly local, for public display in and around Kilkenny City. The Trail, which has been running since last October, will come to a close later this

month when the sculptures will be auctioned to raise funds for the Kilkenny Civic Trust St Mary’s Alms House renovation project and the cats will be delivered to their new owners around the country and the world. For those who like to explore a city on foot then the Kilkenny Catwalk Trail is a great way to discover some of the best culture, outdoor gardens and parklands and dining locations Kilkenny has to offer this Easter... Not to mention getting up close and personal to some of the

colourful artistic creations behind these unique sculptures! The Trail takes in some of Kilkenny’s most iconic sites and best loved attractions, so visitors can explore places like Kilkenny’s medieval mile, or admire some of the country’s finest crafts at the Design & Crafts Council of Ireland, while stopping off to refuel at the 18th Century Butler House and Gardens and many other great locations. Click here for a ‘taste’ for the trail with an itinerary that takes in the first half of the Kilkenny Catwalk Trail. Commenting on the Kilkenny Catwalk Trail, Chairperson of Kilkenny Tourism, Ciaran Conroy said; “This trail has been instrumental in showcasing both the great artistic talent we have here in Ireland and also some of Kilkenny’s most wonderful attractions, buildings and culture. We have been overwhelmed by its success and the amount of visitors from both Kilkenny and beyond that have visited the trail, and we hope people take this last opportunity to visit the Trail before it closes later in the month.” He added: “We are delighted that St Mary’s Alms house will benefit from the proceeds of the auction and look forward to its fully completed renovation and are hopeful that some of the ‘Cats’ remain in Kilkenny for people to enjoy on a permanent basis.”

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

News

New bank advice for women

AS part of its focus on improving the financial wellbeing of customers, Bank of Ireland is offering a series of financial wellbeing webinars aimed at building financial confidence among women. According to Red C Research conducted by Bank of Ireland, more than half of Irish women

lack confidence with money management. The ‘WTF – Wanna Talk Finances’ series is designed in response to this research, and aims to support women who want to take control of their finances by introducing good financial practices and habits across savings, financial planning and manag-

How our Social Entrepreneurs are nurturing seeds of change SOCIAL Entrepreneurs Ireland (SEI) is inviting applications from people across the country who have an innovative idea to solve a social problem. Applications are open for places on SEI’s Ideas Academy. The programme is aimed at those with an early-stage idea who want to move from idea to action, and SEI’s Impact Programme – aimed at high-potential social entrepreneurs looking to grow their impact. Incredible things happen when we support each other to take action and SEI is here to support you on your journey. Every year SEI ask for people with ambition and insight, courage and compassion, to tell us about their idea to make Ireland better. And every year, we have hundreds of application, from people all over the island who are already making a difference in their communities. This past year SEI was very inspired by the Barack Obama quote “Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek,” a spokesperson said.

Recent times have proven that innovation and resilience are two of strongest assets as a society. “All around us we see people not just coming up with ideas, but following through, working tirelessly – being the change they wish to see,” the spokesperson said. “We see that innovation and motivation across the SEI community and the nation, and this year we’re looking to support more people with the ideas and passion to solve social problems through our Ideas Academy and Impact Programme.’ “Do you have an idea to solve a social problem, but aren’t sure how to develop it? Do you have insight and determination? Apply to our Ideas Academy! Are you leading an organisation that’s helping solve a social problem, but need support bringing it to the next level? Do you want to grow your impact, whilst embedding good practice? Apply to our Impact Progamme!” * Check out our FAQ page or get in touch if you have any other questions. Be the change you seek.

ing debt. The webinars are designed to build on the success of the Bank of Ireland Financial Wellbeing Programme. Coming up are: Saving, Investing, Retiring – 1pm Wednesday, May 4 This webinar will focus on saving and investing, as well as the challenges that we face when

we retire. Head of Pensions and Investments at Bank of Ireland, Bernard Walsh will speak with journalist Sinead Ryan to discuss how smart practices and good habits help ensure a more comfortable retirement. Becoming Financially Confident – watch it back

Kel Galavan, Money Coach @mrssmartmoneyhq, Santis O’Garro, Money Mentor @ thecaribbeandub talk money management and confidencebuilding tips. Commenting on the webinar series, Dawn Bailey, Head of Financial Wellbeing, BoI said: “It is clear from our research that

finances can be a significant cause of worry for consumers, particularly for women. “The series will provide practical advice and demonstrate how making small changes can make a big difference across a range of areas from saving to managing debt,” Dawn Bailey concluded.

Tiny beginnings: at the SEI announcement are siblings Johanna (5) and Arthur Widmann (9). Apply online or find out more at socialentrepreneurs.ie. PHOTO: Mark Stedman

Recall of some Ferrero Kinder chocolate products THE Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) today advises that a food recall by Ferrero of some Kinder Surprise chocolate products is underway due to a link with a food poisoning outbreak of Salmonella. The

FSAI, together with the Health Protection Surveillance Centre of the HSE, is investigating this ongoing food poisoning outbreak which is affecting Ireland, the UK and a number of other European countries.

To date, there have been 10 cases in Ireland with the same strain of Salmonella responsible for the UK outbreak. A number of these Irish cases have involved young children, all of whom have

fully recovered from the Salmonella. The batches being recalled are Kinder Surprise 20g and Kinder Surprise 20g x3. z---All best before dates between July 11, 2022 and October 7, 2022

Tighter EU laws will put pressure on dairy farmers A PLETHORA of new regulations and restrictions aimed at capping the dairy industry’s emissions will put increasing pressure on farmers. Among the most significant revelations that emerged from industry talks last week is that the EU wants to introduce an environmental permit system on beef and dairy

farms stocked at or above 100 livestock units, according to a draft document seen by the Farming Independent. The proposal is part of a major review of the Industrial Emissions Directive (IED), which intensive pig and poultry farms already operate under. It will be expanded to the

wider livestock sector for the first time. It has also emerged that new conditionality arising from the EU’s decision to grant Ireland’s derogation application could mean different stocking rates in different areas of the country from 2024. The new rules would mean if water quality was deemed

by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to be at risk, then the stocking rate permitted will be reduced from 250 kg N to 220 kg N from 2024. Meanwhile, Lakeland Dairies also learned last week that the co-op would be following Kilkenny’s Glanbia with restrictions on peak milk supplies.

From 2023 onwards, any ‘new’ volumes of milk supplied in each month of April, May and June above a Base Peak Reference Volume will be paid at the pertaining monthly price less 4 cpl. The Base Peak Reference Volumes for the scheme will be the volumes supplied in April, May and June of 2021.

It now means more than 8,000 dairy farmers between the two processors will be operating under peak milk restrictions from next year. The developments come as a report from a high-level industry committee tasked with capping emissions from the sector is set to be finalised next week.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

Feature KILKENNY’S THREE THOLSELS IN KILKENNY One of the best known buildings is the Tholsel building on High Street in Kilkenny City. Regarded by many as “medieval” in fact it was built in 1761. The word “Tholsel” comes from two Saxon words, toll meaning a tax and sell meaning booth or seat. Somewhat equivalent to the modern day Custom House. Since Kilkenny became a walled town, merchants paid a toll on all goods brought into the town. The proceeds from the tolls were used for the walls, bridges, pavements and buildings. Such a building stood in Kilkenny at the beginning of the 16th Century. The first reference to a toll is in the Liber Primus and it relates to the construction of a Tholsel in 1517. It was then an old structure and may have been 200 years old. THREE DIFFERENT BUILDINGS So we had three distinct buildings in Kilkenny and are referred to in 17th and 18th Century as the Old Tholsel, the New Tholsel and the Tholsel of Kilkenny. Two different locations are mentioned as the site of this Tholsel. One being the site of the Allied Irish Bank, the second at Mannings Travel Agency. In1517 the little and great solars and timber gates in the Tholsel were constructed at public cost. On the east side of the structure a new gate way was built and in it was placed the great iron grate taken by force from the castle of Bernard the then Mac Giolla Phadraig of Cookhill (Cullahill) in Ossory. Sir Piers Butler, later Earl of Ormonde was responsible for this structure and used it as a deterrent to his enemies. The Earl of Ormonde who died in 1614, by his last will appointed a hospital to be built on a waste piece near the old Tholsel. Walter Butler who succeeded as the eleventh Earl in 1631 procured the charter for this incorporation in 1631 under the name of the “Hospital of our Blessed Saviour” It was better known as The Ormonde Poorhouse. About 1840 this building was taken down. Later the Victoria Hotel was built on the site. The historian and Town Clerk, Patrick Watters, mentioned one location as “on that part of behind High Street which Pudding Lane runs”. That building was also used as a Courthouse and the City Gaol underneath. The location of the Gaol is identified on Roque’s map of Kilkenny in 1757 as on Mannings site. THE OLD AND THE NEW The “new” or second Tholsel was built at the end of the 16th Century fully one hundred years after the original building fell into

Kilkenny’s three Tholsels A drawing of City Hall by Kilkenny Artist John Walsh and reproduced in the Observer by kind permission of the artist

The Tholsel on fire. September 20 1985 Photo by Oliver of Kilkenny.

Tholsel circa 1861

disuse. Both were used for a time for the same purposes giving rise to the names the “Old and New Tholsels” In 1578 land was granted to Edmond Shee and John Roth by Thomas Marshall near the Market Cross and their heirs for the use of the Sovereign Burgesses and Commons of the said town of Kilkenny. The present Tholsel being of equal measurement from North to South as its predecessor it was easy to identify the lane which formed a public pass way from the High Street at the Market Cross down to the back steps into Kieran Street. An inquisition held in the New Tholsel in 1619 found that Helias Shee was seised of his lands and castle at Clonmorne and his Mansion house within the City of Kilkenny. This new Tholsel was built on part of the site of the present building .It was sited entirely on the street and separated from St. Mary’s Lane by a row of houses. Watters refers to leases of a number of shops under the New Tholsel. These holding/shops were always four in number and the wider or part of the building which projected out into the street was an open public market place. A shop in ye Tholsole near ye Market Cross set to Mathew St. Leger in May 1747 for £6 10s per annum. A shop in ye Tholsole set to Otho Cosgrave from 1st May 1747 for £3 10s per annum. A shop in ye Tholsole set to Matthias Daws from March 1747 for £5 per annum. A shop in ye Tholsole set to James Hackett in March 1740 £5 per annum. The new building was

Cois Céim in association with The Kilkenny Saturday Walkers group, takes a look at the history of The Three Tholsels in Kilkenny city topped by a cupola with a town bell and a clock. There is a reference by Bishop De Burgo in 1759 by which he forbids the celebration of Mass in any chapel in the City on Christmas morning before 6 ‘ o clock . He adds “by 6’0clock I mean 6’0clock according to the Town Bell”. The upper floor of the Tholsel was occupied as the Upper Chambers or Town Hall. It appears to have been part of the original design to erect a entabalature inscribed with the public functionaries then holding office in the city. The following is a facsimile of its arrangements “this tholesole rebuilt 1761” Antony Blount, mayor. Eland Mossom, recorder. John Watters, Henry Gale,

Sheriffs. Sir William Evans Morres and John Blunden M.Ps It appears that this entablature was to be fitted into the space now occupied by the city coat of arms. This shield (the coat of arms) was only installed in the early part of the 1820s. The mayor’s new office was a small building at the rear of the Tholsel, this addition included the round room and closet over it the spiral staircase connecting both. The bottom room was properly fitted out for the administration of justice and was used as the Mayor’s Court down to the year , 1856. Mr William Lanigan being Mayor removed his court to the upper floor and the smaller of the two rooms. This room is still used as the Mayor’s Office.

At the rear of the building in Marys Lane is a limestone slab inserted in the masonry which gives the date of the foundation of this part of the building, in Roman capitals MDCCCXXIX by NAT. ALCOCK. John Hogan, historian and Mayor in 1883 relates to the building of our present Tholsel in 1761 and details the cost of construction as £1315 commenting today (1883) it could not be completed for less than £3000. The work was described as rebuilding but it fact it was a completely new building, twice the size of the structure it replaced. The designer is not known but remembered as Italian and the building was seen as having much the style of public buildings in Italy.

An extensive renovation of the building took place between 1947 and 1952. A huge fire engulfed the building in 1985 and, only for the prompt action of the Town sergeant not only would the Tholsel have been gutted but the collection of priceless civic and historical documents would also have been destroyed. After two years of repairs and rebuilding the Tholsel reopened in 1987. With all civic business now being conducted in the County Hall, John Street, we hope the council have plans in hand that this historic building with its ancient title is not lost to the future citizens of Kilkenny. Source: John Hogan Kilkenny 1884

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

Small Businesses - Small things make a BIG difference

Small things make a big difference W

HAT defines a small business? Google tells us “Small business is defined as a privately owned corporation, partnership, or sole proprietorship that has fewer employees and less annual revenue than a corporation or regular-sized business”. Is that all? No, there is so much more. It’s the personal touch, that extra attention to detail, the friendliness, and the little things they do to make you want to do business with them again. Be it your local neighborhood shop, the ever present shop or service on your main street, the trades person you can depend on or the craftsperson, service provider you can turn to and know you are getting the best from the best and being looked after. Being local means that the small business or enterprise depends on local support to survive. They are mostly family owned or friends in partnerships, who decided to forgo the relative safety of being an employee and took (and take every day) the uncertain step to being self-employed. They are risk takers, and they are also your family, friends, and neighbors who go about their business every day to help make your life a little easier,

more comfortable, rewarding and happy. It could be the convenience of the location of their premises, the hours they work, their availability, and the personal touch you know you will get. All these things matter but you know you will get a smile and acknowledgement, and gratitude from these people because they care and you are important to them. Small businesses are the backbone of our society,

they create a local economy, support local neighborhoods. Generate jobs and training for our workforce. Pass on skills, experience and know how. As they invest in their business they invest in our society, generating revenue for local and national Government agencies, which is what keeps our country going. Running a small business is not easy but it can be rewarding. With rewards beyond

financial, the rewards can include the pride that is felt in knowing you are doing something special for someone be it making a cup of coffee or making a gift, or making somebody feel special or good about themselves. Small businesses are everywhere, in our towns, cities, villages and countryside. They provide services from the creative to the everyday, the essential to the mundane .Things

we need daily, things we need occasionally to things we hope we never need but know they are there when we do and are glad of the support. The personal touch small business provides is what helps make them unique, their willingness to help, their eye to detail, that freedom to go beyond what is expected, their willingness to listen and get things right. The small things, the big things, all that is

necessary to create an experience that you will be part of to enjoy, savor and benefit from. Many small businesses are interwoven one business providing the raw materials, goods or services for the other. In the end they have you in mind working in unison to provide an end product for you the consumer. Their skills are many and varied but all have an end goal of providing the very best service or product that they can. Their abilities are wide ranging they not only practice their profession but will have had to master an ability to understand and know many skills involved in running a business. Although they will engage other skilled people to carry out certain duties, the small business owner will have the capability to multi task in their daily operations and have a willingness to take on any job that is necessary to complete their end goal. Small business owners are a big part of our economy, a bigger part of our daily lives. They are the people who go a big way to help us every day. They are the glue that holds our society together, without them we would not function as an economy. They are the “go to people” we will need in our lives, always.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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Small Businesses - Small things make a BIG difference

Potty about Pottery: A fun and social clay experience in Clay Rooms Kilkenny

CLAY Rooms Kilkenny, a new ceramics studio in Colliers Lane in the city centre, strives to explore the endless possibilities of clay in a fun and friendly environment. Established by Liselott Olofsson, Niamh Synnott and Aisling McElwain, it opened its doors in January this year. The studio consists of multiple large, spacious rooms with top of the range ceramic equipment. They endeavour to create a community of makers from curious beginners to trained practitioners by offering a range of courses to suit all levels.

At Clay Rooms Kilkenny they want to share their passion by introducing people to throwing and handbuilding with lots of hands-on practical experiences in a sociable, relaxed and fun environment. Course participants will also develop other skills such as decorating and glazing their own work. With over 40 years ceramics experience between them, the tutors offer expert technical support in teaching and learning. The courses on offer on the potters wheel include 6-week day and evening classes, 3 hour taster classes and two day weekend

courses, among others. Also on offer are a large variety of handbuilding courses ranging from planters to teapots. Handbuilding is a slower and more meditative process using hands, fingers and simple tools to make pinch, coil and slab-built forms. We cater for private events and bookings can be made by email. If you would like to be a part of the Kilkenny Clay Community you can find them at: www.clayroomskilkenny.ie Email: hello@clayroomskilkenny.ie Instagram: Clayroomskilkenny

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

Small Businesses - Small things make a BIG difference

Stress and how Tai Chi can help

SO many of us experience stress in our lives, be it on a daily basis or throughout different periods in our lives. The symptoms of stress can present in many forms such as headaches, chest pain, anxiety, restlessness, sleep deprivation, irritability, depression, fatigue and many more symptoms. It is important to try and aim to find ways to manage our stress and active ways such as the practice of Tai Chi is one such way that benefits everyone and can have such an overall impact on one’s life and sense of wellbeing. Many people may choose inactive ways to man-

age stress, such as watching television, surfing the internet, playing video games, which to many may seem relaxing and destressing. However, long term, this form of sedentary “switching off” can cause physical stress which in turn affects our mood and behaviour, thus causing emotional stress. Tai Chi on the other hand, uses slow meditative movement, and deep breathing to affect the nervous system, stimulating what is known as the relaxation response. In a gentle way, it both loosens the body, relieving tension and pain and increasing blood flow

to injured or arthritic joints and at the same time tones the muscles of the whole body and gives students feelings of calmness and increased and balanced energy levels. If you’d like to learn more about Tai Chi and its benefits Kilkenny Tai Chi club will hold Free Talk and Demo on Wednesday 20th of April at 6.10 pm in Kilkenny School Project, Waterford Rd. New 10 week beginners course starts 27th of April at 6.10 pm in the same venue. For more information about the talk and to book your place on the course call Adam @ 0857578156

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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Small Businesses - Small things make a BIG difference

The Happy Pottery, creative studio where happiness lives

THE Happy Pottery is a new pottery painting creative studio in Kilkenny City Centre, near St. Mary’s Cathedral, James’s Green. It offers the happiness of creativity for everyone, in various forms of creative sessions, parties, events, art camps, workshop in-studio and on-the go. Pottery painting is a form of creative activity which helps people to focus, relax, have fun, recharge, socialize, bond, and create memories. Painting your own piece of ceramics makes people

proud and helps to build self-confidence in a social and fun setting. As a free form of art, pottery painting is very easy to learn and the result is always fabulous. You do not need to be an artist to be able to paint a masterpiece, as a new addition to your kitchen, bedroom, bathroom or kids’ room. You can keep it or send as a gift! The studio is open for everyone old and young, girls and boys, women and men! You can now book your own

painting session, birthday party, hen party, confirmation party between Monday to Saturday. The Happy Pottery is available on-the-go. We are open to deliver our signature workshops to Child or Family Centre’s, Schools, GAA club events, or have a mindful painting session as a part of your Corporate Company Wellbeing program. Painting sessions, workshops, after school and toddler classes and the successful Art Camps over school holidays can be booked online on www.thehappypottery.com You also can order your very own “Paint at Home kits” from the website or get a Gift Card and surprise your loved ones with a wonderful creative experience. If you don’t find what you are looking for contact The Happy Pottery on 085 216 0050 or email info@ thehappypottery.com and we will make sure you will be offered a tailored package fitting all your needs! Now people of Ireland near and far get creative! We hope The Happy Pottery will be part of the fun and social experience Kilkenny can offer!

Let the sunshine in with Glas Energy GLAS Energy was ‘born’ in Kilkenny in 2002. Established by local resident Colm Byrne we are Irelands longest standing renewable energy business, serving both domestic and commercial clients. The business was established to provide low carbon alternatives to fossil fuel energy solutions for both heating and electricity needs. In its first decade of operation Glas installed over 1000 solar water heating systems and over 100 biomass based (wood) heating systems to a mixture of private homes and non-domestic buildings. Located in Kilkenny the business is privately ‘family owned’ and having had to scale back the business during the downturn we have been experiencing steady growth for the last 2-3 years despite the challenges of covid. The last 3-6 months though has seen unprecedented increases in energy pricing and an emphasis on the urgent need for global decarbonisation to avoid the potential of extreme climate chaos. Currently employing 6 people locally we expect to double this number in the next 12 to 18 months to meet the market demand and to provide the people of Kilkenny and surrounding counties with high quality products backed by a first class, personalised local service. Along with the challenges we are facing due to our dependence on fossil fuels we are also witnessing opportunities for

producing energy locally for the benefit of the local economy. The electricity grid is moving towards a ‘local generation’ model which will see green energy being generated and stored locally with the opportunity for citizen’s and communities to participate and benefit from local energy production. Villages and towns like Callan, Graiguenemangh and Old Loughlin have formed local community energy groups and are exploring working models and case studies for community participation. Very soon we will see the introduction of a ‘Micro generation support scheme’ which will allow the public to get paid for generating and exporting power to the grid. Homeowners and businesses alike will be eligible to participate in the production and sale of electricity for the first time in almost 100 year’s. New government incentives for heating provide significant support for business that wish to transition to locally sourced biomass heating. Our business model is simple. We listen to the client, analyse and understand their current energy demand and, underpinned by a deep understanding of both the current and potential industry trends, propose the most appropriate solutions to meet their needs. We are passionate about this sector and regard every project as a reference project. We regard our clients as partners on a journey. We are

happy to talk to home owners, farmers, voluntary organisations and business owners who want to start their journey to local, lower cost, lower carbon energy future. Our product range includes solutions for generating electricity from Solar energy and accessories such as battery storage, water heating controls and EV charging, biomass systems for heating with all forms of wood from logs to wood pellet or wood chip. We are also developing our heat pump side of the business and are currently trialling a number of products/ systems with a view to a market launch later in 2022. We have an indepth understanding of wind, hydro and energy efficiency options and can explore all possibilities for energy demand reduction and/or on-site generation. For those concerned about the initial capital outlay and the risk associated with these technologies we offer a model where the customer just purchases the energy from the system for an agreed period until the system is paid for and then ownership is transferred. Step one on the journey is to give us a call or send an email to begin a ‘no obligation’ conversation. You can contact me directly colm@glas.ie or 086 8181825. You can also visit our website and complete an expression of interest form www.glas.ie

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

Small Businesses - Small things make a BIG difference

The one stop shop for all your craft supplies! CRAFTY Bride Craft Shop is situated on James Street Kilkenny. The shop is owned and managed solely by Marion Kilbride, now in business in Kilkenny city 10 years, this year, Marion is the friendly face of the shop. Marion told The Kilkenny Observer how she found crafting was a lifesaver to many people during the Covid 19 period. Her shop was

closed during the lockdown but she operated a special service and delivered materials to her customer’s homes across Kilkenny city free of charge. During lockdown, she also availed of the opportunity to work on and introduce an updated website with the assistance of The Local Enterprise Office. This shop situated just off High Street, Kilkenny stocks a

mixture of crafts. A selection of buttons to up cycle clothes, straw and wire rings for floral making, knitting wool and embroidery threads. Also, stockists of Wedding D.I.Y. supplies, ribbon, lace feathers and card making materials. Tel:- 087 654 4737 weddinginvitationstudio@ gmail.com www.craftybride.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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Picture special Linda OMahony and Jason Travers

Jeff Tayloe and Jennifer O’Sullivan

Mags and Adam Shorthall

Sandra Burke, Mary Ryan, Vicki Cunningham and Sheila O’Callaghan

t u o b A Out &

WITH

y n n a D art Lah

Tracey Redmond

The Tobin family

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

kilkennyobserver.ie

Picture special The Storey family

Nichola Dooley and Susan Doherty

Amy and Norman Storey

Igmas Sauvarjas and liam Murphy

Linda Codoul and Norman and Elizabeth Storey

Ian Collins

The Burke and Nichol families

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

News

Lisa O’ Neill closes Peaky Blinders CAVAN born, Dublin based singer-songwriter Lisa O’Neill closed the phenomenal TV drama series Peaky Blinders on April 3rd. The incredible closing scene of the last ever season was soundtracked by the voice of Lisa O’Neill, who covered Bob Dylan’s ‘All The Tired Horses’. A stellar lineup of Irish musicians also performed on the track including Cormac Begley (Bass Concertina and Piccolo Concertina), Colm Mac Con Iomaire (Violin) and Ruth O’Mahony Brady ( Piano). The song was produced, engineered & mixed by Ruth O’Mahony Brady in Studio Symphorien Dublin. Mastered by David Odlum. Cover photo by Keri-Leigh Kearney Fans of the hugely popular series will be familiar with the Irish singer; her song ‘Blackbird’ also appears in episode four of season six. Lisa shared her excitement on social media last night: ‘It is not an overstatement to say that it was beyond my wildest dreams to be ‘Ordered by the Peaky Fucking Blinders’ to cover this beautiful song from Bob Dylan. Go raibh míle maith agat Peaky Blinders. Go raibh míle maith agat Cormac Begley,

Colm Mac Con Iomaire agus Ruth O’Mahony Brady for whom without, this track would not exist. We recorded this version of ‘All the tired horses’ in an old horse stables in Cabinteely, South Dublin over the space of two days. We recorded by constant candlelight as a dear friend was dying at the time. This all contributed to the energy and the charge of the final track. That friend has since passed. I wish to dedicate this song to Mick O’Grady - The Long Distance Kid - 1943 2022.” Watch the closing scene of Peaky Blinders featuring Lisa O’ Neill’s cover of ‘All The Tired Horses’

https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=Z4-_QQR6QLQ&t=8s Lisa O’ Neill ‘All The Tired Horses’ Watch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_contin ue=3&v=1wif9RnARys&feature =emb_logo

Code of behaviour join April Sounds

Kilkenny audiences can catch Lisa O’ Neill play the stunning St. Canice’s Cathedral this Friday, April 08th with Rónán Ó Snodaigh, Myles O’Reilly, Arrivalists and Brid Lyons also sharing the stage. In aid of the Irish Red Cross and UNICEF Ukraine appeals. Tickets €18 available from Rollercoaster Records www.rollercoasterrecordskk.com

IRISH brass band Code of Behaviour will ‘pop up’ outside the Medieval Mile Museum on Sunday, 10th April. Catch these free gigs in between performances from Caoimhe and Séamus Uí Flatharta, Niamh Regan, Gary O’ Neill, Ailbhe Reddy, Elise and John Hegarty. Code of Behaviour’s style is a blend of pop, jazz and overall madness. The band is made up of trumpets, trombones, mellophone, saxophone, sousaphone and drums, with occasional singing (and dancing) thrown in the mix. Per-

forming their own arrangements of originals, modern covers, and traditional New Orleans standards. Code of Behaviour is known for “livening up the streets of Cork’’ with their amazing talent. They have previously performed at festivals, including Electric Picnic, Cork Jazz Festival and St. Patrick’s Festival. The perfect afternoon treat for all the family. Code Of Behaviour play at 1.30pm, 2.30pm and 5.30pm on Sunday, 10th April outside the Medieval Mile Museum. Happy Valley Coffee will be

serving up delicious treats and great coffee on Sunday, 10th April. April Sounds takes place on Friday 08th and Sunday 10th April. Tickets for April Sounds are available from Rollercoaster Records, Kieran Street Kilkenny. Full proceeds from tickets go to Irish Red Cross and UNICEF Ukraine emergency appeals. April Sounds is delivered locally by Kilkenny County Council Arts Office and funded by the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport & Media.

that was current Cllr Mr. John Coonan and Mary O Hanlon. I am sure all these powerful individuals will still be to the fore of advocating for our senior’s needs despite not being members of the OPC Executive. Current Chairper Chairperson Betty Dewberry re sadly relinquished her role as chairper chairperson and the vacancy will now be filled at its first meeting of the new executive in April. The role of the chairperson is a vital role in an organization. It is very important that the new

Chairperson continues the current format that has been so successful over the last ten years. The chairperson of the OPC cannot be a person who ignores the executive members and their input. It is important that this is adhered to by whoever takes up the role. The Chair cannot be a person who decides to plough head their own agenda and remember they serve not just the executive but all the 300 + members of the OPC. Three new members came on board at the AGM. Mr. Livui Iftime, a Romanian who will represent the views of all our new European Communities who now lives in Kilkenny. The very popular Newpark man Mr. Frank Cody. Frank has a great background in Community work and

serves as Chairperson of the Newpark Residents Association. A powerful and strong Residents association, which co incidentally has a large seniors membership, and Frank and his committee has been instrumental in getting the paths and lighting upgraded in one of Kilkenny’s oldest estates, this year winning the Category of Tidiest Large estates award 2021. With his experience he will make an excellent addition and a possible candidate for chairperson with his understanding Team work and Community Affairs. Mr. Paul Clarke came on to the executive for 2022 and he will now help to give the Callan Seniors community’s views and their aims and aspirations. That leaves one vacancy. The Committee can

co-op a new member as they do have 4 positions that can be filled in this manner. As we become a diverse city and county it may be worth considering to co-op a member from the ‘new communities’. It is part of the Kilkenny Migrant strategy that we encourage and promote Community leaders in these communities. Many of our African Communities are now in their senior years. It is important that all Kilkenny Organizations are included. A new dawn is on the horizon for our seniors as the world opens up once more after 24 months that we all wish to put behind us. Let’s hope 2022 will be a good year for not just the roses but all the seniors of Kilkenny City & County.

A good year for the Roses ON Wednesday last 30th of March saw a large crowd gather for the AGM of Kilkenny’s Older People’s Council. It was very heartening to see all our friends and colleagues able to meet and greet each other in person after what has been a very stressful time and also a time of isolation for many of our seniors. Kilkenny Local Authority Collette Byrne addressed the gathering and spoke of the great work that the council does for the older people of our city and county. The installation of new footpaths and seating and the repeated aims of the Local Authority and the OPC to making Kilkenny a great place to grow old. A gentleman who has worked tirelessly down through the years advocating for the senior members of

society was appointed to the Honorary Role of Kilkenny Seniors Ambassador. That gentleman was Mr. Nicky Brennan. Nicky had previously held the role of Chair of the Age alliance and is currently working on the 10-year history of the OPC. It was also a sad day to see some of the council’s strongest members 6-year terms of office come to an end. Ann Kelly and Nora Ni Eacha, two ladies who performed their duties with a smile and strong commitment to advocating for Seniors and their needs. The OPC saw the terms of two of its previous Chairpersons stepping down and

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

Picture special

Kilkenny T Club Duath Winner of the ladies race Jennifer O’Sullivan

All pix: Danny Lahart

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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Picture special

riathlon lon 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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Recruitment

Online

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

Food & Drink

Dine Me Come

One of Italy’s most dynamic red wines

With

Roast chicken risotto with chicken crackling Prep: 20 mins Cook: 45 mins Serves: 4

Ingredients • 1 leftover roast chicken carcass (you’ll need about 300-400g meat, and as much skin as you can get from the carcass) • 1 carrot, halved lengthways • 2 onions, 1 unpeeled and halved, 1 peeled and finely chopped • 2 bay leaves • 2 chicken stock cubes • 25g butter, plus a large knob • 2 tbsp olive oil • 3 large garlic cloves, crushed • 300g risotto rice • 125ml white wine • ½ lemon, zested • small bunch of thyme, leaves picked • 50g grated parmesan, plus extra shavings to serve • truffle oil or extra virgin olive oil, for drizzling Method STEP 1 Strip all the meat from the chicken carcass, shredding it into bite-sized pieces. Transfer to a plate along with any skin you can salvage and any jellied juices and fat, then chill until needed. Put the carcass in a large saucepan with the carrot, halved onion and bay leaves. Cover with cold water, then bring to the boil. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, cover and cook for at least 30 mins and up to 2 hrs until you have about 1 litre of stock. Strain through a sieve into a large jug or pan. Discard the bones, bay and veg. If you end up with more than 1 litre of stock, continue to cook over a high heat to reduce. Whisk in the stock cubes until dissolved, then keep the pan warm over a low heat while you make the risotto.

Rhubarb crumble

STEP 2 Heat a large casserole or highsided frying pan over a low heat. Melt the butter, add the oil and fry the chopped onion for 10 mins until soft and translucent. Add the garlic and stir for 1 min more, then add the rice. Cook, continuing to stir for a few minutes until the rice has absorbed some of the butter and is shiny. Pour in the wine and stir until the liquid has bubbled away.

STEP 3 Add the lemon zest and thyme, then a generous ladleful of the warm stock. Continue to cook the risotto over a low-medium heat for 20 mins, stirring often, adding the stock a ladleful at a time and allowing it to be absorbed before the next addition. Add the reserved chicken and any jellied juices and fat towards the end of the cooking time to warm through. The risotto should be loose and soupy, and the rice grains very nearly cooked, but still retaining a little bite. Stir in some more stock to loosen if needed (or kettle-hot water if you’ve run out), then a large knob of butter and the parmesan. Season well and cover. Leave for a few minutes for the butter and cheese to be absorbed while you make the crackling. STEP 4 Tear or chop the chicken skin into small pieces, then put in a cold, dry frying pan. If the

Prep: 20 mins Cook: 1 hr Serves: 4 Ingredients • 500g rhubarb, chopped into chunks the length of your thumb • 100g golden caster sugar • 3 tbsp port (optional) For the crumble topping • 140g self-raising flour • 85g butter, chilled • 50g light brown muscovado sugar • 50g chopped walnuts (optional) Method STEP 1 Tip 500g thumb-length chunks of rhubarb into a saucepan with 100g golden caster sugar and 3 tbsp port, if using. STEP 2 Cover and simmer on a very low heat for 15

skin is quite lean (with no fatty patches) add a drizzle of oil; otherwise, the fat should render from the skin and start to sizzle. Fry for a few minutes until the skin is crisp, then transfer to a plate lined with kitchen paper. STEP 5 Check the consistency of the risotto again – the rice will absorb more stock as it rests, so you may need to add more. Spoon into bowls, drizzle with truffle or olive oil, and top with some shaved parmesan and the chicken crackling.

mins, adding more sugar if you want. When soft (but still holding its shape) and sweet enough, pour the rhubarb into a medium baking dish. STEP 3 Heat oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6. STEP 4 To make the topping, rub 140g self-raising flour and 85g chilled butter together with your fingers until you have a soft, crumbly topping. STEP 5 Now add 50g light brown muscovado sugar and 50g chopped walnuts, if using. Mix together with your hands. STEP 6 Scatter the topping over the rhubarb and bake for 30 mins or until golden brown on top. STEP 7 Serve piping hot with a big jug of thick vanilla custard. Refer to the tip for a recipe

Some of the finest wines in the world are to be found in the Piedmont of Italy. The landlocked region bordering France is particularly renowned for Barolo and Barbaresco, tannic reds made from nebbiolo grapes in and around Monferrato. Befittingly, Monferrato provides the backdrop for another beloved Piedmontese wine, Barbera. Garnet-hued Nebbiolo wine packs rose and cherry flavorus that grow more complex and leathery with age, while ruby Barbera displays markedly more acidity and fewer tannins, coupling bright red fruit and herbaceous notes. The result is a rounder style of wine compared to its local vitis counterpart. In Monferrato, one of the most boisterous expressions of the grape comes from Barbera d’Asti DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita, meaning the product has a guaranteed and controlled denomination of origin). A DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) or controlled denomination of origin) since 1970, it was promoted to DOCG status in 2008. The denomination currently counts 300 hilly hectares across 167 municipalities in nine production areas within the provinces of Asti and Alessandria; its Nizza subzone earned its own DOCG in 2014. While harvested around Italy, barbera flourishes in Piedmont – particularly in Asti where it’s believed to have been grown as far back as the 13th century. The barbera grape achieves a unique versatility in Asti and the Monferrato region, both in terms of terroir and production styles. It could give a deep, powerful and plush wine, but also express a dynamic, subtle and sincere, straight, no-frills, extremely easy drinkability. Steep slopes The terroir Dani is referencing is comprised of steep slopes coated with two types of soil: the marine sedimentary sand of Asti and the marly, calcareous white earth of Alessandria, Canelli and Casale. The territory, combined with the hot summers and cold winters, creates conditions in which barbera thrives. They used to say that Barbera was the go-to drink when your Nebbiolo was ageing. But it can be argued that Barbera has an amazing capacity for ageing. Traditionally, Barbera undergoes stainless steel vinification, but in recent decades, winemakers began experimenting with casks and barrels, which led to the recognition of a Superiore-style wine. Standard Barbera d’Asti goes on the market the spring after the harvest, while the Superiore requires 14 months of cellar ageing with at least six months in wood, which adds layers and depth to the wine. It’s then bottle-aged before hitting the market, and many can spend up to another decade in the bottle.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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5 Nine fun ones to watch on Disney + right now

best films to watch on Netflix

Adapted from Elena Ferrante’s eponymous novel, Maggie Gyllenhaal’s directorial debut feature The Lost Daughter is the ultimate subversion of motherhood. By raising various uncomfortable questions, the film does not allow the viewers to detract from the ruthless and ugly parts of our character, a factor that makes the characters in the film eerily relatable. The movie propelled the lead, Olivia Colman, into the race for winning yet another Academy Award for her incredible portrayal of absurd anguish.

A popular cult film, known as the “alltime best science fiction films”, Blade Runner is a perfect example of a neonoir film. Morally complex and intense, this film is unconventional with its jaded hero Holden’s mission lacking the element of heroism, a messiah-like villain who is trying to protect his villain as well as a wasteland with racist cops and ethnic problems galore. Harrison Ford is a phenomenal on-screen presence.

1. Agent Carter (2015–16) For anyone unaware, Disney+ is synonymous with Marvel these days, as the mega studio purchased the comics giant in 2009. One of Marvel’s many properties now at home on the Disney streaming platform is this Captain America spinoff. Hayley Atwell reprises her role as Peggy Carter, a US secret agent during the aftermath of World War II. While the series was canceled after two seasons on ABC, the period thriller received rave reviews from critics and is a must-watch for fans of spy dramas, Marvel, or Captain America. The only downside is that America’s butt is not more prominently featured. 2. Andi Mack (2017–19) Of the new wave of live-action Disney Channel comedies, Andi Mack stands head and shoulders above the rest. Unlike some of its more high-concept counterparts, Andi Mack is simply about a girl named Andi Mack who is going to middle school with her friends. The foursome at the centre of the antics are Andi (Peyton Elizabeth Lee, who stars in the upcoming Doogie Kamealoha, MD), Buffy (Sofia Wylie of High School Musical: The Musical: The Series), Jonah (Asher Angel of Shazam), and Cyrus (Joshua Rush of The Lion Guard). The series made headlines when it became the first Disney Channel show to feature an openly gay character. Cyrus’s coming-out scene is the sweetest thing, and you should go watch it right now.

3. The Beatles: Get Back (2021) The Beatles are one of the most successful, iconic, and enduring bands of all time (and many people would tell me to scrap the “one of” in that last sentence). Well, now Peter Jackson of Lord of the Rings fame is here with a three-part documentary series detailing the recording of the band’s final studio album Let It Be (working title Get Back). The documentary uses footage from a previous documentary about the album and is a doc about a doc about the Beatles. It’s packed with music and delves into what it looks like to have four ultra-successful artists come back together to record an album after they’ve already broken up. Fascinating for Beatles lovers and newbies alike. Watch it on Disney+. 4. Cosmos (2014) Another stockpile of Disney+ treasure lies in the National Geographic brand, which was acquired by the mouse during the Fox merger. As a result, astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson’s stunning overview of evolution and scientific advancement is now yours to stream. With episodes focusing on the big bang, light, astronomy, and electromagnetism, viewers get a crash course in the science that surrounds them, supported by all the graphs, images, and videos needed to make the material accessible. Also, the soundtrack, by Alan Silvestri, is breathtaking and worth appreciating in and of itself.

5. The Falcon and the Winter Soldier (2021) As the Marvel Cinematic Universe ventures out of Phase Three and enters a post-Endgame Phase Four, we are now being treated to a superhero miniseries that will tie into the broader film franchise. This six-episode journey focuses on two characters from the Captain America plotline: Falcon (Anthony Mackie) and Winter Soldier (Sebastian Stan). The series, which follows Falcon after he’s been handed the Captain America mantle from Steve Rogers, is an exciting adventure and sets up an expected fourth Captain America film in the franchise. 6. Gargoyles (1994–97) If you are taking an afternoon jaunt around the city and see a stone gargoyle staring down on you from the facade of a skyscraper, please know that he’s only stone during the day. At night he’ll come alive. Or so goes the premise of this beloved children’s animated show in which gargoyles awaken after the sun sets to fight crime in New York City. The monsters, transported to the ‘90s from medieval Scotland, are here to protect against the Big Apple’s seedy underbelly of crime while also facing Shakespearean- style dramas of their own. Darker and more serious than your typical morning cartoon, the gothic show became an instant cult favorite and retains a loyal following to this day.

7. Hannah Montana (2006–11) Disney+ has the Miley Cyrus career launcher on its platform, and you can watch Miley/Hannah sing her way to fame while her father, “Old Town Road” singer Billy Ray, guides her. The show is pure camp, and if you finish the four seasons and want more, there is always the Hannah Montana Movie waiting for you. 8. Hawkeye (2021) Finally, after years as a secondtier Avenger without his own headliner, Hawkeye is back with a television miniseries all his own. Jeremy Renner returns for this six-episode miniseries, which takes place after Avengers: Endgame on the timeline and follows Hawkeye and his new protégé, Kate Bishop/Ronin (Hailee Steinfeld). The pair of expert sharpshooters are out to stop the baddies, who are somehow linked to both of their previous lives, all before Christmas (because this is, after all, a Christmas property! 9. High School Musical: The Musical: The Series (2019–) It’s deliciously messy. Even more messy, however, is the behind-the-scenes drama involving the show’s stars Olivia Rodrigo and Joshua Bassett, who allegedly dated each other, broke up, and have continued to enthral the world with a series of increasingly petty pop songs, cryptically detailing their ill-fated romance. Oh, and now they still have to act in scenes together on the show! A captivating guilty pleasure you must allow yourself.

A violent revenge film concerning a freed slave who sets out to rescue his wife from a plantation with the help of a German bounty hunter, Django Unchained addresses the slave trade of the 15th century with a heavy hand. In part, an aid to blacksploitation cinema, as well as Sergio Leone’s westerns, a terrific Jamie Foxx and Christoph Waltz elevate the material, only until Tarantino’s token cameo anchors the film into absurdity. Joining Foxx and Waltz on the line-up include Leonardo DiCaprio, Kerry Washington, Samuel L. Jackson, and many more.

A beloved French action thriller from the ’90s, Luc Besson’s 1994 gem stars Natalie Portman as a 12-year-old girl who trains under the guidance of a highly skilled hitman (played by Jean Reno). Fans have been asking for a follow-up for quite some time now but such a project seems highly unlikely at this point. The filmmaker shut down any rumours about a sequel, saying, “You can’t imagine how many people ask me for a Léon sequel. Everywhere I go they ask me. If I was motivated by money, I would have done it a long time ago. But I don’t feel it.”

An important, environmentally pertinent film, Okja was a major acquisition from Netflix in 2017, helping them to establish themselves as serious competitors in the realm of filmmaking in a project that starred the likes of Jake Gyllenhaal, Paul Dano and Tilda Swinton. This modern-day fable heavily criticises the state of modern factory farming doing so by constantly flitting between moments of gentle grace and surprising brutality. With a massive CGI pig taking the films headlines, Okja follows a young girl and her relationship with the creature whilst she bats away interest from a multinational organisation.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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Community & GAA Notes

SENIOR FOOTBALL A spirited comeback by Clara came up just short on Sunday morning in Clara when O Loughlins prevailed by a single point. This ended Clara’s football season for 2022. Unfortunately for Clara the management team of David and Pat Mulrooney had to do without the services of key players Alan Coleman and Kevin Nolan for this one and they were badly missed. O Loughlins were quickly out of the blocks and by the time Alex Sheridan scored their third goal after 25 minutes they led by a whopping 11 points ; 3-3 to 0-1 , with the Clara point coming from a James Nolan free. However a Peter Nolan goal and a Conor O Shea point before the interval gave Clara some hope. When Jason Byrne goaled and brothers Liam and Tom Ryan added points early in the second half the gap was down to two points and Clara had all the momentum and whatever breeze was blowing. Then they were rocked by a breakaway goal by John McNamara to extend the lead to five again. Back came Clara again with points from Killian Phelan and full back Jack Langton before a cracking Tom Ryan goal tied up the two teams with five minutes to play. O’ Loughlins edged ahead again but Tom Ryan evened matters again with another lovely point. It was all in the melting pot but it was O’ Loughlins that came up with the winner through wing back Conor Kelly, just as extra time beckoned. It was a valiant effort by the Clara men that came up just short. They had good performances in defence from Dara Glynn, Jack Langton and Sean O Shea, while Liam and Tom Ryan, Joe Connolly and Jason Byrne threatened most in attack. 4-5 to 3-7 was how it finished. Team - Ciarán Prendergast, Dara Glynn, Jack Langton 0-1, Sean O Shea. Shane Staunton, David Langton, James Casey. Liam Ryan 0-1, Conor O Shea 0-1. Peter Nolan 1-0, Joe Connolly, Killian Phelan 0-1. Tom Ryan 1-2, James Nolan 0-1f, Jason Byrne 1-0. Subs Dermot Nolan, Ruairí Breen, Evan Whearty. MINOR HURLING Clara played their first minor hurling game in Roinn A in about 10 years on Monday of last week in Bennettsbridge. They started the game in business like fashion with Tommy Delaney pointing within a minute. It was a taste of things to come from Tommy, who tormented his marker all evening with his willingness to show for ball and take him on at every opportunity. The next score was a goal from Ned Langton, and Clara were up and running. The “Bridge” replied with a couple of points but Clara kept their foot to the floor and worked some terrific team scores. One of those was a real peach of a point by Davy Barcoe, who caught a wonderful ball and put it straight between the posts with an over the shoulder no look strike. A Joe Power goal shortly before half time helped Clara to a 2-7 to 0-7 lead at the break. Ned Langton opened the second half scoring with a fine point. Bennettsbridge were just about hanging onto their coat tails, mainly through frees. Then Harry Boyle caught fire and fired over 3 points in about five minutes, the last one an outrageous effort from the sideline about 60 yards out. When Tommy Delaney goaled with about 10 minutes to go the lead was out to 3-16 to 0-9 and Clara were never going to lose from there. To their credit, the Bridge closed out the game with an unanswered goal and two points. However these scores were all from frees. Stout defending by Ben Crow, Zach Lawlor and Philip Carrigan in particular limited the Bridge to 0-3 from play in the whole match, as against 3-13 from play for the Clara men. Conor Hoyne, Luke Lawlor and Sean Carrigan were other players to make the scoresheet from play, as all the forwards and both midfielders scored. A spirited win but bigger fish to come. Naas come to Clara for the next game.

Team - Cian Kelly, Alex McDonald, Ben Crow, James Cody. Philip Carrigan, Zach Lawlor, Ben Murphy. Conor Hoyne 0-4, 0-3f, Luke Lawlor 0-1. Ned Langton 1-2, Sean Carrigan 0-2, Harry Boyle 0-3. Tommy Delaney 1-2, David Barcoe 0-1, Joe Power 1-1. Subs used Hugh Kelly, Dillon Cummins, Eoin Corr, John Bergin. Tom Murphy, Bill Kealy, Tom Boyle, Bill Kealy, Daniel Ryan, Conor Galvin, Orí Phelan. URLINGFORD AND GRAINE COMMUNITY TEXT ALERT Invitations are being extended to all householders to subscribe to Text Alert 2022. €10 per phone or €20 per household (up to 3 mobile numbers).Community alert continues to address issues in our community: Anti-Social Behaviour; Vandalism; Drug Activity; Robberies. Payment options: Subscribe online, transfer to BOI: IBAN IE20 BOFI 9061 4482 3579 42, include your name and phone numbers with transfer details. Door Collection: Week commencing April 4. An envelope will be dropped to your house where you can fill in the details and put payment inside, to be collected within a few days after drop off. Thank you! EMERALDS GAA CLUB Mega Bingo: Every Sunday, 4pm at Urlingford GAA pitch. Gates open at 3pm. Single books and one sheet €10; Double books and two sheets €15. Extra jackpot sheet €3 or two for €5. Please support. EMERALDS URLINGFORDAND GRAINE LOTTO March 28th prize fund was: €7,200. Jackpot: €5,200.Numbers drawn: 2, 11, 17, 30, bonus no 21. No winner and no match 3 winners. Promoters prize: Mary Cleere. Five lucky dips of €20 each: Pauline Nolan, Patrick Roche, Bertie Tobin, Dermot Dunphy, Margaret McCarthy.Next draw takes place on Monday, April 4 in the Clubrooms. Results next week. MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE Easter Raffle: Please support our Coffee Morning and Easter Raffle on Thursday, April 14 from 11am-1pm. Raffle tickets are available in the Centre, €2 per strip or 3 for €5. HEALTHCARE COURSES BTEI Healthcare Course QQI Level 5: Healthcare QQI Level 5 course places available for new programme starting September 2022. Please contact us if you are interested in completing this course. SENIOR ALERT If you need to apply for a Personal Alarm, please contact Sue or Josephine. COUNSELLING SERVICES Our low cost Counselling Services, includes One-to-One, Family & Teens, aged 12 plus. General Counselling: Bereavement, Stress, Anxiety & Depression. Other Counselling Services available: Drug, Substance & Gambling Addiction. Please contact Sue for more information or to make an appointment. Appeal for Clothes Donations: Any clothes donations would be appreciated in aid of our counselling services. Donations can be left into the Centre, please call before dropping off. Contact number for the Centre 056 8838466. URLINGFORD ARMS SPLIT THE POT This week’s winner of Split the Pot was Mary Cowhig who won €407. Congrats Mary! Tickets €2 on sale in participating businesses in town and is in aid of Urlingford Arms Darts Club and YDS Youth Darts School Ireland for next week’s draw. URLINGFORD / GRAINE DEFIBRILLATOR GROUP In case of emergency, call: 085 2726396.

Pictured at the official launch of the Urlingford and Graine Community CCTV in May 2021 are committee members, back, L to R: Eugene Norton, Cyril Cleere, William Campion, Pat Wall. Seated: John Hayde, Dan Norton, John Cahill, Ann Ryan and Sinead Garrett.

Kells New Juvenile All Ireland Winners 2022 URLINGFORD NEWS Anyone wishing to submit news items, club events, announcements etc can do so by emailing urlingfordnotes@gmail.com. If you have any photos you wish to include, please forward them to the email address. LOCAL LOTTO Results for March 28th 2022. Winning numbers: 2,8,26, No Winner. Winners of Draw for 5 x €30. Anthony Kenny ( Mags Cahill ), Ger Duncan ( Larry Costello ), Fiona Wallace ( Ellen Delehunty ),Keelagh Sheridan ( Joe Sheridan ), Miranda Cunningham ( Anne Hickey ) Jackpot next week (April 3rd 2022) € 1,150 Draw Venue: Townsends Dunnamaggin at 9pm. All welcome. TIDY TOWNS Kilmoganny Tidy Towns will host a Fashion show in St Eoghan’s Centre on April 15th at 8pm. Clothes modeled on the night will be sold. All models clothes will be donated items. Anyone who wishes to donate clothes can leave them into the centre every Tuesday before the show from 7.30/9.30pm. Casual, occasion,evening wear, sportswear all welcome. Queries to Alycia Kearney 051 648118/087 6757490; Jackie Kenneally 051 648138/087 9953532. A donation will be made to Ukraine from the proceeds. ROSARY Rosary at The Grotto Baurscobe will take place the first Monday in May. DUNNAMAGGIN DEVELOPMENT GROUP Join us on Easter Sunday April 17th for our first Market of the year. We have lots in store for you .Come and enjoy our Market Stalls in Madge’s Garden and have a cup of tea from our Café while the kids enjoy some Easter Arty fun at our kid’s tent. Or why not pick up a map and see if your family can find all the cheeky bunnies hiding around Dunnamaggin in Our Easter Egg Hunt (€2 for one child or €5 per family). Why not take Easter off from Cooking and enjoy our BBQ and some yummy cakes from our café. We will also be holding a Raffle with three Fab Prizes to be won. All new stall holders welcome, contact Gwen 083 4544484 DEBATING WIN Congratulations to St Leonards National School on their win in the Concern debating competition. Eighteen teams took part this year from fourth, fifth and sixth class in primary schools across the county. FREE GARDENING TALKS Kilkenny Castle will host a programme of free Gardening Talks with a wide range of speakers covering a variety of topics. They will start on Tuesday 29th March and entry is on a first come first served basis. Further details available at https://kilkennycastle.ie/event/freegarden-talks-at-kilkenny-castle/?instance_id=1517 WILDLIFE CALENDER Please help to track changes in climate with a new wildlife calendar. The National Biodiversity Data Centre, with support from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, recently launched the Farmers’ Wildlife Calendar for 2022: Climate Tracker. Research suggests that there will be an increase in temperatures and rainfall in Ireland as a result of climate change. Any change to our climate will disrupt the emergence time of insects, flowering of plants and arrival of migrant species, such as the swallows. Farmers and other landowners can help by submitting records on the first occurrences of nine key species within the Wildlife Calendar. Further details/how to submit records available at https://www.nationalruralnetwork. ie/climate-change-news/tracking-changes-in-climate-through-a-

wildlife-calendar/ WINDGAP COMMUNITY On April 10th we present our very first EASTER BAZAAR. It’s got all the usual stuff and a lot more new features which we will announce in coming days on this page. Tickets for “Spin the wheel” may be purchased at a massive discount of €20 online for all spins. Tickets also available on the day until 2.30pm also for €20. The spins will also be broadcast live on Facebook! We are most appreciative to the public for their support over the past two years and thank you in advance for the much needed financial contributions. Watch this page for breaking news ! Buy Tickets here ! https://gofund.me/ cb9ca560 KILKENNY AGE FRIENDLY COMMUNITY Kilkenny Age Friendly Community gatherings. Kilkenny Age Friendly Older Peoples Council would like to hear from you. It is important that we hear the voice of all older people throughout the county and to ensure that we are doing so we are holding a number of Age Friendly Community Gatherings where we invite older people to come along and let us know what they see as the issues that are relevant and important to them. These Community Gatherings will be run at the following locations and dates: Urlingford FRC,6th May 2022. Ferrybank Community Centre. 20th May 2022. Castlecomer Community Hall.15th June 2022. Mullinavat Community Centre. 30th June 2022. Graiguenamanagh Hub. July 2022 tbc. Please come along and bring some friends. It will start with Registration Tea/Coffee at 9.15 and finishing at 12.30/1pm. If you would like further information please email agefriendlycounty@gmail.com or text 0876210589. KILKENNY INVOLVEMENT Kilkenny Involvement, supported under SICAP, has organised a free walk on Thursday 7th April from St Mullins to Graiguenamanagh along the river (4/5Km) as part of the National Hello How Are You campaign https://www.mentalhealthireland.ie/mhi-campaigns/ hellohowru/ promoting positive mental health. The walk starts at 11:00am. Tea/sandwiches will be served after the walk. See above for your attention Hello, how are you? - Free walk from St Mullins to Graiguenamanagh. Anyone interested to join the walk can contact Cathal on 086-0788573. Note that spaces are limited. UKRAINE Information for people fleeing the war in Ukraine. Please follow the below link for information regarding supports and resources available to the People of Ukraine in Ireland. This is a live document that we will continue to update https://kilkennyppn.ie/informationon-supports-and.../. Information for displaced Ukrainian Nationals entering Ireland can also be found at:https://www.gov.ie/.../bc537irelands-response-to-the.../ or https://www.kilkennycoco.ie/.../ info-displaced-ukrainian. Keep an eye also on the Wheel’s Ukraine Crisis information hub for further updates and a list of resources that may be of use to anyone who is in contact with people arriving from Ukraine. IRISH RED CROSS Register of Pledges. The Red Cross was founded on the idea that help should always be available to people in their time of need. They are looking for vacant properties and spare rooms so that they can help people arriving into Ireland integrate into our communities.There are many ways you can help refugees in Ireland, of which displaced Ukranian Nationals. The first step is adding your name to the National Register of Pledges of Ireland. For more information on how you can help please visit https://registerofpledges.redcross.ie/#/ If you have any questions or would like to discuss the process in more detail, call the Irish Red Cross Migration Team 01-642 4600 or send an email: registerofpledges@redcross.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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Community & GAA Notes SERIES OF KILKENNY CONCERTS Kilkenny County Council will host a series of concerts in St Canice’s Cathedral and the Medieval Mile Museum the weekend of 8th / 9th & 10th April/. All ticket income will support the Red Cross Ukraine and Unicef who are running emergency appeals.This beautiful and uplifting series combines local and national acts on two of our most wonderful Kilkenny venues, St Canice’s Cathedral and the Medieval Mile Museum.Details about all of the concerts and musicians can be found and tickets can be booked at Rollercoaster Records, Kieran Street, Kilkenny or https://rollercoasterrecordskk.com/rollercoastergigs/ KELLS HANDBALL CLUB Kells Handball Club has four new Juvenile 40 x 20 All Ireland gold medal winners.The Juvenile All Ireland Finals were held in Kingscourt, Co. Cavan on 22 March 2022, having won in Leinster and winning against their Ulster opponents in the All Irelandsemi finals. In GU15 Doubles Mia O’Connell (Kells) and her partner Jenny Saunders (Windgap) gave a brilliant performance and overcame Síle Ní Chonghaile/Aoibhe Ní Chadhain (Galway)15-3, 15-3 In Boys U14 Doubles Mattie Murphy (Kells) teamed up with Andrew Brennan (O’Loughlin’s) and came out on top against Liam Murphy/ Danny Ryan (Clare) 9-15, 15-13, 15-9 In BU16 Doubles Cathal Buckley and John Hayes (Kells) after a great display of handball, saw off their opponents Cian Dunning/Diarmuid O’Connell (Cork)21-4, 21-11. Congratulations to you all, your parents and coaches. Kells Handball Club are very proud of your achievements. GOWRAN PARISH Palm Sunday is next Sunday. Palms will be blessed before mass. Palm branches will be available at the doors of both churches. Lenten Alms annual collection will be taken up before mass. Trocaire are also asking the churches to promote their Lenten Trocaire collection for the very needy of Zimbabwe. GOWRAN PARK The next fixtures are Thursday April 7th and Wednesday 13th 2022, first race goes to post at 4:30pm both days. Tickets now available online, www.gowranpark.ie THE KILKENNY COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL The festival is back this year in Gowran Park, and it will take place on Sunday 3rd July featuring a host of top-class Country Singers. Performing on the day will be Mike Denver, Cliona Hagan, Robert Mizzell, Trudi Lalor, Jimmy and Claudia Buckley with backing band The Conquerors. Tickets now on Sale and for further information, check out kilkennycountrymusicfestival.ie or email kkcountrymusic@gmail.com GOWRAN FESTIVAL OF SPEED The festival is taking place on Sunday, 21st August. Tickets available online, www.gowranpark.ie GOWRAN HOUSE Gowran House is back open again displaying all things social and living history. Several items on display are in context to the village. Open for visits most Saturdays and Sundays from 2pm till 5pm. Check Gowran House on Facebook for opening details. SPORTS ROUND UP MICHAEL O’LEARY DOUBLE MINOR VICTORTS TO START LEAGUE CAMPAIGN Both Young Irelands Minor Teams got their respective League campaigns off to a winning start with midweek victories. The Young Irelands Minor B Team had a resounding 4-13 to 0-10 win in Slieverue on Wednesday night, while on Thursday night the Young Irelands Minor A Team had an 0-11 to 0-5 win against Graigue-Ballycallan. In a low scoring contest on a cold breezy evening in Gowran, the Gowran lads led throughout as their defence was strong, assured and dominant, with the excellent Jake Kelly commanding proceedings from centre back, while Jim Conlan worked vigorously alongside him. David Langton and Richard Fenlon impressed in the Full-Back line, while Thomas Langton did a lot of Trojan work around the middle third ably assisted by the strong running Cian Phelan and Eoghan O’Neill.

Jack Treacy lifts the cup for the Boro on a sunny evening in St. John’s Park GOWRAN DUO PART OF KIERAN’S JUNIOR VICTORY Well done to Ben Phelan and Jim Conlon who were involved in successfully retaining the Fr Cosgrave Junior Colleges Cup in Larchfield after they defeated Kilkenny CBS 1-20 to 1-12. NATIONAL SCHOOLBOYS WIN COUNTRY CUP OPENER Well done to Gowran National School boys’ team who beat Scoil McCauley Rice NS in the first round of the Country Cup. CAMOGIE DUO PART OF DEVELOPMENT SQUAD Well done to Alex Brennan and Chloe Pitt who were on their first day out with the Kilkenny Under 15 developments squads as they took on Tipperary last Saturday. Keep up the great work girls. DOUBLE DOUBLE DELIGHT FOR DANNY Gowran Jockey Danny Mullins enjoyed a brace of double victories over the weekend as he rode doubles in both Wexford and Fairyhouse. Last Friday evening in Wexford, Danny was on board the 11/4 shot Recite A Prayer to land the Download BoyleSport App Novice Handicap Steeplechase, before he doubled up for his Dad Tony on 8/1 chance Fox Watch to win the concluding Division Two Handicap Steeplechase. Meanwhile on Sunday in Fairyhouse, Danny repeated the dose when Song of Earth ran out an impressive 5 length winner at 11/1, before completing the double just over a half an hour later when Bronn held off the challenge of Churchstonewarrior to win the featured Grade 2 Novice Hurdle. DICKSBORO GAA LOTTO LOTTO Results April 4th. Nos: 2–31– 26– 16. Jackpot: €8,800– not won. Draw Prizes – €50: Yvonne Dunne c/o Online. €25 each Murt Morris c/o Doherys Bar. €25 each Carmel Murphy c/o Kathleen Begley. €25 each Anne

Kerwick c/o Anne Kerwick Co op draw ticket Fand E Morrissey c/o F and E Morrissey .Promotors prize P and J cody New weeks draw €8,950 10th of April. MINOR HURLING The Minor hurlers were beaten on Friday night in James Park by Dunnammagin. Hard luck lads. Our B team had a great win versus Lisdowney on Tuesday night. Well done lads. U15 HURLING The u15s went to Limerick to take park of a mini Feile tournment hosted by Na Pairsaigh. Our lads had a great days hurling. U13 FOOTBALL CHAMPS The Boro Boys showed real heart and determination as they battled back from 6pts down with 10 mins to go in the u13 Roinn A Gaelic Football County Final.Two late goals from David Waldron and Jack Delaney levelled the game at the closing stages. Extra time beckoned and the Boro Boys momentum continued with 1-1 from Joe Dowling and a late lobbed goal from Noah Orr sealed it for the Palmerstown lads in the end. Much credit to an excellent O’Loughlin’s side for a very sporting game. These lads will surely have great contests as they progress through the hurling season and the ages. Captain Jack Treacy lifted the cup for the Boro on a sunny evening in St John’s Park. Boro win 5-6 to 3-5. Scorers: Joe Dowling 1-3, Jack Delaney 1-1, Tiernan O’Brien 0-2, Tom Henderson 1-0, David Waldron 1-0, Noah Orr 1-0. Dicksboro: Oisin Treacy, Charlie Byrne, Jack Treacy, Sam Pender, Oisin Henderson, Sean Kavanagh, Donal O’Neill, Robert Lacey, James Kavanagh, Tiernan O’Brien, Joe Dowling, Sean Norton, David Waldron, Jack Delaney, Tom Henderson, Rhys Duggan Kerwick, Senan Dempsey, Michael Brennan, Noah Orr, Eoin Roberts, Samuel Fleming, Finn Butler MGT: Niall Lacey, Ger Henderson, Benny Kavanagh, Jason Dempsey, Derek Deegan, Paul Treacy, Rory Conlon. CONDOLOENCE Dicksboro GAA and Camogie Club would like to send condolences to Noreen Phelan and the Phelan family on the death of Ger Coffey. May he R.I.P. PALMERSTOWN CLUBHOUSE REOPENS Dicksboro Clubhouse Bar is reopened Thursday from 8.30pm and every Thursday going forward. Thursday nights is Lotto Draw and Cards Night.All are welcome out for a social drink, a chat and if there is interest, a beginners cards table.We are offering a particular welcome to all of our senior citizens members, it’s been a difficult past two years and we would be delighted to see you out to the club for a chat.We have a selection of non-alcoholic beers, barista coffee and all the usuals. We look forward to seeing you all CLUB REGISTER 2022 We are delighted to announce that Registration for Dicksboro GAA and Camogie Club for 2022 is now open. There are a number of ways for existing and new members to register with the club ; Click on the link below ( For existing members enter your e mail address to retrieve all details from last year’s registration process ). Go to the membership page on Clubs App and sign up. https://dicksborogaa. com/membership_signup

Dicksboro u13 Football County Champions

PAT HOYNE The death of Pat Hoyne has cast a veil of sadness over our parish and beyond its environs, but especially in the townsland of Ballykeeffe. Pat was born at Rathmoyle, Ballycallan where he spent his childhood and youth. For many years he farmed in Ballacolla, Co. Laois. On retirement he returned to his roots and settled in Ballykeeffe. He was a loyal member of Graigue Ballycallan hurling club and always attended the hurling matches. Many relatives and friends and indeed all who knew him came to pay their respects at his home where he lay in repose. The attendance at his requiem mass, which was celebrated by Fr. Liam Taylor, P.P. bore testimony to the popularity and esteem everyone had for Pat. The choir sang appropriate hymns during the mass. The members included St. Brigid’s, Ballycallan Church Choir Sinead Flynn who played the flute, family, cousins,

Conor, Nina and Ewan Scott added to the solemnity of the occasion. Seamus gave a lovely eulogy on his father. Sincere sympathy is expressed to his wife Maura, daughters Anne and Niamh, sons Seamus and John, sisters Brigid, Mary and Geraldine, brothers Kieran, Nicholas, Sean and Michael, daughters in law, sons in law, brother in law John Power, grandchildren, nephews, nieces, relatives and many friends. His burial took place in St. Mary’s Cemetery, Ballykeeffe. Ar dheis De go raibh a Anam. BILLY RONAN Sympathy is extended to Jack Ronan and family on the death of his brother Billy, in London recently. CONFIRMATION Congratulations to the following young people from our parish who received their confirmation recently in Ballycallan Church: Dara Barut; Tom Brennan; Colleen Byrne; Cathal Cahill; Millie Cahill; Sean Conroy; Ian Conroy; Luke Hayes; Donnacha Kenny; Joshua Malone; Joshua Menton; Ruby Millea; Sean O’Dea; Nathan Young Power; Dean Smith; Martin Wall; David Walton; Abby Bourke; Joe Bourke; Michael Brennan; Aisling Butler; Harry Butler; Tommy Butler; Daisy May Cleere; Éabha Cody; Will Cody; Katie Comerford; Kitty Conroy; Ellen Cormack; Sinead Cormack; Conor Egan; Bill Guiry; Odhran Hennessy; Jim Hennessy; John Hoyne; Regan La’Brooy; Aaron Young Lanigan; Tommy Long; Alyssa Lynch; Lily Marnell; Charlie McCluskey; M.J. Molloy; James O’Connor; Billy Ronan; Niamh Ryan; Brian Skurzewski; Harry Tector; Charlie Teehan COLLECTION FOR UKRAINE The collection for Ukraine recently in our parish amounted to €2,292. Your generosity is greatly appreciated. EASTER CEREMONIES Holy Thursday – Mass of the Lord’s Supper at 8pm in Killaloe; Good Friday – The Lord’s Passion at 3pm in Ballycallan. Prayer around the cross at 8pm in Kilmanagh; Holy Saturday – Easter Vigil at 9pm in Ballycallan; Easter Sunday – Killaloe at 9am and Kilmanagh at 10:15 am. SEAN NOS AND SET DANCING CLASSES Sean Nos and Set Dancing classes for fitness and fun continue with Michael Cooney in Ballycallan Hall on Monday evenings from 8pm to 9.30pm. Please contact Nicholas Dunphy on 086 3928 380 or Mary Dunphy on 086 401 0914 with any questions. €7 per class, all levels welcome. Classes are organised in association with Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann. BEGINNERS YOGA Beginners Yoga with Body Scan Meditation at Naomh Aodhán Community Centre, Kilmanagh on Thursdays from 6:30pm to 8:00pm starting on April 28th or Fridays from 9:30am to 11:00am starting on 29th April. Places are filling up fast. If interested text your name and class choice (Thursday or Friday) to 083 207 4358. Total cost for 6 weeks is €30. G.A.A. LOTTO RESULTS Results for 30th March draw. Numbers drawn were 12; 13; 18; 30. No jackpot winner. Lucky Dip winners were Bronagh Robinson, Lauren Millea and Lilly McCluskey. Seller’s prizes went to Patricia O’Halloran and Noel Brett. Next draw will take place on April 4th and jackpot will be €11,200. 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. CALLAN GOLF CLUB The good weather truly showed the hard work of the club’s greenskeepers over the past few months as the course is in perfect condition just in time for the summer months.A reminder that the bar and restaurant is back open for all members and guests from 10am to 6pm every day. GENTS SECTION Saturday 26th March Men’s Open Singles Stableford Results. Overall Winner: Joe Murdock (28) 45pts. Division1: Dylan Kealy (11) 42 pts. Gross: Paul Madigan (02) 36 Pts. Division 2: Barry Hudson (28) 43pts. Congratulations to Joe Murdock who had a Hole In One on the 16th. Wednesday 30th March Men’s Open Single Stableford Results. Overall Winner - Craig Wall (24) 44pts. Runner Up - Dave Dooley (7) 39pts. Gross - Darren Comerford (3) 35pts LADIES SECTION The Ladies Junior Alliance was held at Callan Golf Club in ideal weather conditions on Monday March 28th.Out of a field of 75 Ladies it was good to see Callan Lady Member Bridget Holohan taking the top prize. Great praise went to Tommy and green keepers,also to Sr. Ena Kennedy and her team of helpers for making the day so successful and enjoyable by all. RESULTS: 1st Bridget Holohan, Callan 31pts. 2nd Kathy Mitchell, Borris 29pts 3rd Deirdre Reid, Waterford 26pts. 4th Mgt Rossiter, New Ross 25 pts c/b 5th Martina Naughton, Kilkenny 25pts. 6th Joan Reid, Carrick- onSuir 25pts 7th Betty McGrath, Callan 25pts. 8th Emer O’Bren, Borris 24pts Tuesday 29th 15-hole s/f 1st Maria Gorey (22) 30pts c/b. 2nd Betty McGrath (18) 30pts c/b. 3rd Marie O’Riordan (25) 30pts c/b 9Hole s/f 1st Jean Grace (17) 22pts. 2nd Maura Holden (18) 20pts Thanks, and appreciation goes to Rose Brophy for organising the social golf every Friday throughout the winter months. Now with the evenings lengthening the Social Mixed organised by Catherine Dore and Shiela Kirby will begin on Friday April 8th at 5pm. As the name implies this is one of the most sociable events in golf and very beneficial for improving your game.Playing off full handicaps, the fee is 3 euro and please have cash as no cards accepted for this event. LOTTERY Callan Golf Club Week 8 Lottery Results; 31st March 2022. JACKPOT €1,950 Drawn Numbers 3,7,11. JACKPOT - No Winner. Lucky Dip Winners €30 each: Jimmy O’Brien, Brian Gallery and Carmel Condon. Sellers – Joe Cuddihy, Ann O’Shea and Club Shop. Next week’s Jackpot April 6th 2022 – €2,050. Thank you for your support.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

Hurling matters

Sport The season so far BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

THIS year’s Allianz National Hurling League has ended, with Waterford being crowned champions, following their win over Kilkenny’s semi-final victors, Cork at Semple Stadium, Thurles last weekend. The Deise are in decent form as the championship approaches, and are a dangerous kind of animal for potential opponents as we get ready to marvel at the race for the Liam McCarthy Cup. But what about our men? Brian Cody will be hoping to navigate his way through Leinster, and onto the National stage as he seeks to mastermind a first All-Ireland title for the Noresiders since 2015. Our league campaign has been somewhat of a mixed bag this season. As usual, the black & amber had to start their season minus the Ballyhale contingent, as the Shamrocks battled to add another All-Ireland club title to their illustrious roll of honour. Unfortunately, James O’Connor’s men came up just short after a pulsating final with Ballygunner. The extended involvement in the club scene, meant that Brian Cody could look at numerous players in the pre-season Walsh Cup and the Allianz League. John Locke Park in Callan would be the venue for the first competitive outing of the season, as Laois came to town for a Walsh Cup clash. Cheddar’s team controlled large periods of the game, but lost by 6

points, as an experimental Kilkenny team started the season with a win. Tullaroan’s Shane Walsh hit 0-9 in the win and was ably supported in the scoring stakes by Windgap’s Emmet Landy who notched 1-2. Others to impress were O’Loughlin’s Robbie Buckley and Graigue Ballycallan’s Colm Prenderville, who both finished with 0-3. The next outing saw Kilkenny make the journey to Chadwick’s Wexford Park. The boss shuffled his pack a little for this encounter and this allowed him to run his eye over some other intercounty candidates. Tipp native, Darragh Eagan is quietly going about re-jigging things with the Model County, as I say, quietly, compared to his predecessor! A more experienced Wexford side looked like they would secure a victory over the Cats, but a stirring second-half comeback saw Cody’s men take a share of the spoils. Conahy Shamrocks James Bergin was on placed ball duty, and hit 0-7, as he showed his accuracy from frees. Thomastown’s John Donnelly finished the day with 0-4, while

Cian Kenny has performed well in the engine room

The League’s for playing..... The Cats Allianz League campaign in review

David Blanchfield defensive score

Padraig Walsh has revelled in his new attacking role

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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Hurling matters O’Loughlin’s Eoin O’Shea hit an impressive 0-3. Chris Bolger notched 1-1 while Mossy registered 0-3. One of the most eye-catching performances on the day, came from The Village’s Cian Kenny, who showed well across the game and took over the free-taking duties when Bergin was replaced. Indeed, Kenny went on to hit 0-4. Despite the comeback and securing a draw, it would be the hosts that progressed to the Walsh Cup final on scoring difference. The Walsh Cup games provided the perfect warm-up for the Allianz League campaign. First up for the Cats was the challenge of Antrim. Darren Gleeson’s charges arrived at UPMC Nowlan Park full of optimism and put in a courageous display in a 3-point defeat in horrible blustery conditions. In fact, had it not been for a stunning late save from St Lachtains Darren Brennan, the game would have finished all square. Star of the show was Mossy Keoghan, who hit 2-2 on the day, and his goals proved crucial, as the Saffrons nearly upset the favourites. The Marble County men then hit the road and headed to Thurles, for a meeting with old foes Tipperary. Jason Forde’s injury time free saw the home side claim the narrowest of victories. This game saw the return to net minding of Glenmore man and AllStar Eoin Murphy. Padraig Walsh, who had been operating in a forward role early season, hit 0-4 in an accurate

shooting display. Huw Lawlor was back on the edge of the square, as the talented Bennettsbridge defender, David Blanchfield got another run-out, as Brian Cody looked to add some height to his half-back line. Blanchfield can also take a score, and he did exactly this in Thurles. Following their encouraging Walsh Cup display, Laois returned to Kilkenny for the league encounter at UPMC Nowlan Park. Cheddar’s men played with the aid of a strong wind in the opening period, but found themselves 4 points down at the interval. The warning signs were there. The Cats upped the ante in the second half, and blitzed the O’Moore County in a devasting 5-minute spell from the 40th minute. Cody’ charges hit 1-5 without reply to ensure the result wasn’t ever to be in doubt. Kilkenny would have the luxury of hitting 13 second-half wides as they romped to a 17-point victory over a deflated Laois side. Brian Cody will have been happy to see nine different names on the score sheet at the final whistle. Glenmore’s Alan Murphy was on free-taking duty and finished the day with 0-13, ten of which came from the placed ball. Conahy Shamrocks Tom Phelan was on fire too, hitting 2-1, while both Mossy Keoghan and Billy Ryan notched 0-4 each. David Blanchfield struck again too, as his stock started to rise quickly. Next up for Kilkenny was an away game with Mattie

Kenny’s Dublin in Parnell Park. The boys in blue were unbeaten to date, and this game would be a much tougher and more useful test than the previous outing. This game would see the Cats put in their most complete performance of the season to date. It was also the best conditions that the black and amber had played in during 2022. Cody’s men played with a physicality and intensity that was more akin to championship hurling. The Dubs failed to score in the 22 minutes leading up to half time, as the visitors led by 6 points at the short whistle. Dublin hit the first few scores of the second period, but any thoughts of a sustained comeback were dashed when Walter Walsh rattled the net. The Noresiders would hit 2-3 without reply as the Metropolitans were put to the sword. The final nail would be hammered in by Mossy, after great work by John Donnelly. One of the most pleasing aspects of the afternoon’s work in the Capital, was the contribution from wingbacks, David Blanchfield and Mikey Carey. The exciting young defenders hit 5-points between them, as they gave their fans a taste of what could possibly be coming over the next few years. Walter Walsh weighed in with 1-3, Padraig also hit a sumptuous 0-4, while Mossy had 1-1 to his name. A 13-point victory and a marker laid down for the major business ahead, later in the season.

Kilkenny rounded off the group stage of the league with a home tie against the Deise at UPMC Nowlan Park. If the Cats wished to make the last four, they would need to secure a victory against their near neighbours. This match saw Eoin Cody return to the black and amber jersey. You could tell that this game meant something to both teams, as the challenges flew in and the hits were hard. Liam Cahill’s men raced into a lead, early on, but the home side responded as no quarter was given in this encounter. A well-worked goal from Dicksboro’s Cillian Buckley brought the Cats level on 26 minutes. By the short whistle, the home side had a two-point lead. Billy Ryan got Kilkenny’s 2nd major of the day on 45 minutes, after taking a lovely pass from the influential Padraig Walsh, who was reveling in his attacking role.

Huw Lawlor - great league campaign

Any hopes of a Deise victory were well and truly dashed on the hour mark, when substitute DJ Foran was shown a straight-red card for a nasty challenge on Mikey Butler. The O’Loughlin Gaels defender has been one of the stand-out performers for Brian Cody this season, and I feel he will definitely be around the starting XV come the first championship game against Westmeath. Further scores from the Cats saw them home with 6-points to spare. Padraig Walsh was the standout performer for Cody’s men, hitting a magnificent 5 points. Billy Ryan had 1-1 to his name, while the returning Eoin Cody hit 2 points from the bench. Walter Walsh also notched 0-3, as he put in another sterling display. The win over the Deise saw Kilkenny secure a semi-final berth and a trip to face Cork on Leeside. Under the lights at Páirc Uí Chaoimh, the home side prevailed by 4-points, on a night when the standard of refereeing left a lot to be desired. “Free to Cork” was the most heard phrase that Saturday night. Kilkenny would register two majors in the defeat, both from the hurl of Mossy Keoghan. Billy Ryan & Eoin Cody hit 0-4 a piece, while Alan Murphy, again, proved a reliable free-taker in the absence of TJ Reid. For me, the performances of the two Mikey’s, Carey and Butler provided much optimism for the months ahead. Carey’s vision and passing ability are a welcome addition to the Cats style of play, while Butler’s battling all-action style of defending is a real ‘throw-back’ to proper hurling! So, the league is done and dusted. Attention now turns to the Leinster Championship, and a trip to TEG Cusack Park in a couple of weeks. The race for All-Ireland glory is about to commence. Let’s hope Brian Cody and his team are in the conversation come July 17th.

>> SHERRY SAYS...

Mossy Keoghan green flag raiser!

Billy Ryan takes another point

Another national league campaign comes to an end. No silverware to show for their efforts, but plenty of positives and a few bits and pieces to iron out before the serious business of championship hurling begins. While current Liam McCarthy holders Limerick may have shown a little chink in their armour during the league, it would take a silly person to bet against the Treaty County. Three huge positives for Kilkenny were undoubtably the introduction of David Blanchfield, Mikey Butler & Mikey Carey. These three defensive additions had added much needed quality, skill and more importantly, depth to the Cats squad. In the attacking third, Mossy Keoghan and Billy Ryan have been in decent form as well, both raising green flags across the league. In the absence of TJ Reid, James Bergin, John Donnelly and Alan Murphy have been entrusted with the free-taking duties while the Shamrocks man spear-headed his club sides bid for All-Ireland glory. Like every season, placed ball accuracy will be vital in any county’s bid for glory. Midfield will pose an interesting dilemma for Brian Cody. Cian Kenny has performed well in the league, but while the James Stephens man has clearly put his name in the hat, will the skillful left-handed hurler be given one of the two starting spots? The group games against Westmeath and Laois may be the arena for the manager to run his eye over the engine room. As the league settled down, we saw Huw Lawlor revert to the No.3 jersey. The big O’Loughlin’s man is a master of his art at the edge of the square. There is perhaps one corner-back jersey up for grabs, the training games will no doubt see a vote of confidence given to someone before we take to the TEG Cusack Park turf. Goodbye Allianz National Hurling League, hello Bord Gáis Energy All-Ireland Hurling Championship 2022.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

Picture special

Kilkenny Honda Centre Min JAMES STEPHENS 1-15 O’LOUGHLIN GAEL 1-9

All pix: Danny Lahart

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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Picture special

or Roinn A Hurling League

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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News

Planning Memoriams/Miracle notices prayers

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL I, Patricia Blewitt Jenkins intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Retention Planning Permission to retain existing detached garage and porch to the front of existing dwelling house and all associated site development works at Clashcollaire, Callan, Co. Kilkenny. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Department, Kilkenny County Council, County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9 a.m.- 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL We, Shane and Orla Doyle of Clonard, Grove, Cuffesgrange, Co. Kilkenny intend to apply for planning permission for the demolition of the existing rear, lean-to conservatory and the construction in lieu of a new single storey kitchen extension, bay window and associated internal modifications. Separately, a new open, garden pergola and timber deck, incorporating training pool, hot tub, store, shower and WC with associated external works. All work located to the rear of the existing house. The 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.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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Motoring

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

St. Anthony Prayer,

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. J.OB

The Miracle Prayer

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

Pilgrimage to Knock There will be a pilgrimage to Our Lady’s Shrine at Knock on Saturday, 7th of May 2022. For booking contact Ann on 087 9329561. Organised by the Irish Catholic Nurses’ Guild. Departure: Bus leaving the Butt’s Green at 7.30am. All are welcome

The Miracle Prayer

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

kilkennyobserver.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 April 2022