Kilkenny Observer 8th December 2023 by Kilkenny Observer

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Our Pension Plight Baby Won't Sleep Only one in three workers Irish expert on why help can afford to retire at 66 is needed for parents  Page 3

 Page 18

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Our poor pensioners Only one in three workers can afford to retire at 66

At least two in three of us will have to keep working after reaching the age of qualification for the State pension, expecting not to be able to afford to stop working. Just one in three workers expect to retire at the age of 66, when people qualify for the pension, according to a survey of 900 workers conducted

by pensions and investment company Royal London Ireland. A similar proportion expect to have to keep working until they reach 70, while ‘early retirement’ is only likely for about one in five Irish workers. Most of those who expect to keep working to the age of 70 are thought to be in the private

sector, where pension coverage is low and where those that do have a pension often have insufficient funds built up to allow them to retire early. The Central Statistics Office found earlier this year that 57% of workers say the State pension will be their main source of income when they retire because they have no work-

based pension or private retirement fund. From next month, workers will have the option of continuing to work up to the age of 70 rather than taking the State pension at the current qualifying age of 66. In return, deferred recipients would be entitled to a higher weekly payment of €315, com-

pared with the current rate of €265.30 a week. Other research undertaken earlier this year by Royal London Ireland found that almost six in 10 workers in Ireland would retire at the age of 50 or 60 if they could afford it. A further one in five would stop working today if finances allowed.

COMMENT

Mind our young this Christmas ...

No rooms at the inn

Pieta, the national suicide prevention charity, is encouraging the people of Kilkenny and throughout the nation to choose #HopeOverSilence as more than 1500 people, including 370 under 18s in Leinster alone are expected to engage with the charity through one to one counselling services in December. Hope Over Silence is an initiative asking communities across the nation to place a candle in their window. Instead of a minute’s silence, Pieta is asking everyone to choose to talk about mental health and help open up the conversation further this festive period. As well as driving conversation about mental health at Christmas, Pieta is calling on the public to support its services by donating by logging on to www.pieta.ie. Pieta is 85% supported by public fundraising. PHOTO POSED

Hair, hair, our Emma... Top Mark! Kilkenny local Emma McCarthy is among 117 employees awarded by Peter Mark for their valued contribution and long-standing service to the company. Ms McCarthy has worked for 20 years at Peter Mark, MacDonagh Junction The Peter Mark Long Service

The Best Comment & Opinion in Kilkenny

Awards recognise employees from salons across the island of Ireland who have worked with the company for 10 years or more. Of the 117 honoured, the average length of service was 20 years, with the years of service honoured from 10 years to 40 years. Collectively, the team

The Government has promised that the much-delayed auto-enrolment system will finally be launched by the end of next year, bring up 750,000 private sector employees into a retirement savings plan. The fact that no State contributions were allotted for it in Budget 2024 does not bode well for the plan.

members ranging from stylists to head office staff have over 2,000 years of experience in the hairdressing industry. Commenting on the Long Service Awards, Peter O’Rourke, CEO of Peter Mark, said: “We are delighted to honour more than 100 of our colleagues for their long-

standing service to the company. We pride ourselves on our strong track record in retaining our talent and strive to provide our team with a lifelong career in the industry, offering continuous professional development through our worldclass training programme.

“Our talented team is at the heart of our business, and I would like to sincerely thank each of them for their passion and continued dedication to the Peter Mark Group.” Peter Mark has 66 salons on the island of Ireland employing almost 1,400 people in towns and cities.

The Government is finally admitting what we have all known for the best part of this year – that Ireland is running out of accommodation for asylum seekers. The Department of Integration is facing increasing challenges in securing beds for international protection applicants fleeing here in recent weeks, amid growing local, nationwide unrest and acts of deliberate violence on those seeking refuge. Agencies involved in trying to find beds say there is likely to be a significant shortfall in the run-up to Christmas, and that contingency plans need to be further developed. Tánaiste Micheál Martin says the Government is facing a “challenging situation”, and that any existing concerns for safety – especially single males – would be “exacerbated” if the applicants found themselves homeless. The Minister for Children is looking at measures to help alleviate the situation. There has been a steady increase in arrivals since mid-June. A total of 1,785 people seeking international protection arrived during June and July, while 2,450 arrived in September and October. There are huge challenges. It is worrying times. We need to think outside the box.

PAUL HOPKINS

MARIANNE HERON

JOHN ELLIS

GERRY MORAN

Telling it like it is. And with no holds barred

A straight shooter. Considerate and wise words

Great advice. Your money in mind

Quirky take on bright side of life

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News

A woman’s place... and what family means The Government plans to hold two referenda on International Women’s Day next year, March 8, to change constitutional references to ‘women in the home’ and expand the definition of the family, the Taoiseach has confirmed. It had initially been envisaged that the people would be asked to vote in November However, there have been significant delays in the publishing of the proposed wording, particularly in relation to the ‘women in the home’ clause in the Constitution. The Cabinet has decided the following: *to amend Article 41 of the Constitution to provide for a wider concept of family *to delete Article 41.2 of the Constitution to remove text on the role of women in the home, and insert a new Article 42B to recognise family care. Both referendums come after recommendations were made by the Citizens’ Assembly on Gender Equality. The Citizens’ Assembly

recommended that an article of the Constitution which deals with the family should be amended so protection is not limited to marital families. It was also recommended that the Constitution be amended to remove a reference to a woman’s “life within the home” and replace it with language that is non- gender specific that recognises care within the home and wider community. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has confirmed that the Constitution will continue to explicitly protect both the family and the institution of marriage but the Government is proposing it be changed to acknowledge that families may also be founded on

other “lasting relationships”, other than marriage. For example, a family which is headed by a lone parent or a family headed by grandparents or guardians. He said such an amendment would give constitutional protections to those not in a “marital family”, and will extend to those in “lasting relationships and put them on an equal footing with married families”. Such changes will enable the Constitution “to catch up with contemporary reality,” said Mr Varadkar. Equality Minister Roderic O’Gorman said the current wording excludes thousands of families from the recognition and the protection of the Constitution solely because those families are not based on marriage. “The current wording seeks to contain women in a very singular role, a role that’s completely divorced from the reality of women’s lives, of women’s careers across our state today,” he said. Education Minister Norma Foley said: “There are families where it is the Dad who stayed home” and others where the father does work outside of the home, adding that there are also many oneparent families who juggle work and childcare. “We want to, and indeed I would say, we need to recognise the dynamic and diverse caring arrangements of Irish families today,” she said.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

News

Covid-19, and cancer scare Covid-19 led to more delayed cancer diagnoses in the second year of the pandemic, while just one in seven people discover they have cancer only after going to a hospital emergency department. Arriving at A&E is linked with more advanced stages of

the disease, limited treatment options and poorer survival outcomes, according to the annual report of the National Cancer Registry (NCRI), with an analysis from 1994 to 2021. The cancers with the highest rate of presentation in A&E are those of the brain, pancreas, liver, gallbladder,

biliary tract, lung, ovary and colon. The disruption to health services due to Covid – which which saw about 10% of expected cancers not being picked up in 2020 – continued in 2021, with around one in 25 people suspecting the disease not coming forward.

The report said: "More complete data on the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on cancer diagnoses in 2021 indicates that the pandemic resulted in a 4% reduction in cancer diagnoses compared to what was expected that year. Early indicators suggest a return to expected rates of

cancer diagnoses in 2022.” However, the number of people living after an invasive cancer diagnosis has almost reached 215,000 – or one in 23 people in the country. This is a 50pc increase in the number of cancer survivors compared to a decade ago. This reflects both an in-

A shock shortage of urgent medicine

It'll be a tight festive spend The average expected spend this Christmas is lower than in 2022. On average consumers expect to spend almost €1,030, with around one in four expecting to spend at least €1,250. The 45-54 year olds intend to spend the most. Almost half expect to spend at least €1,000, with an average expected spend of €1,334. Those with children reported the sharpest decline in expected spending, with anticipated spending levels back to where they were in 2021. Expected use of borrowing to fund spending is slightly up on last year: 29% expect to borrow money to pay for Christmas In terms of consumer rights, over half say that the return period depends on the length of the product guarantee/ warranty, a figure that has remained unchanged from last year.

New register for short-term lets by summer A new online register for shortterm lets advertised by the likes of Airbnb and Booking. com could finally be in place by next summer, pending EU scrutiny. After meeting with EU officials in Brussels, Housing Minister Darragh O'Brien said he hoped to get pre-clearance

crease in the number of people diagnosed with cancer every year and ongoing improvements in cancer survival. On average 41,767 cancers or other noninvasive tumours had been diagnosed annually between 2019 to 2021. See John Ellis Page 16

for the register soon, pending the end of a scrutiny period on December 22. It follows repeated delays to the Government's bid to bring an estimated 12,000 homes back into the rental market. "The short-term letting challenge is quite acute in parts of Europe, too, particularly in the

bigger cities. There is a whole discussion about over-tourism and that type of thing,” Mr O'Brien told the Irish Independent. "From the Commission's perspective, it makes sense that it's pan-European because obviously there is clarity for the platforms in that

– basically it is the same type of register, and we're fine with that. "I think, really, it was a timing thing, that we're kind of ahead of all the other member states on this.” Ireland submitted the legislation to Brussels last year, but the bloc put it on hold until this

month so that it could scrutinise whether it was in line with the EU's own plans to regulate the sector. The EU says that Airbnb and other operators should be regulated the same way in all EU countries. Those rules are still being negotiated between MEPs and EU governments.

There is a growing shortage of antibiotics, medicines for asthma, attention deficit disorder, dementia, diabetes and cholesterol, as well as eye drops and medicated skin creams are being reported. Around 332 medicines are now in short supply, worse than last winter. Azure Pharmaceuticals, which has been producing a medicines shortage index, said the rise amounts to 90% in the last year. "Global trends signal another winter of shortages in antibiotics and over-thecounter cough and cold medicines for patients affected by an unanswered crisis entering its second year,” a report on the index found. Pharmacists say they are concerned, saying prescribers are having to switch to other options for some conditions such as attention deficit disorder medication. Pharmacists are also finding it more difficult to substitute different-strength medicines. Sandra Gannon, of Azure Pharmaceuticals, has produced a white paper aimed at tackling medicine shortages, which calls for an essential medicines list that is specific to Ireland, as well as sustainable medicine pricing. "The number of medicines in short supply with no licensed equivalent has risen at a pace we haven't seen since the index began in October of last year,” Ms Gannon said. "The root causes of many of these shortages come down to the way in which medicines generally are reimbursed and the need to strive for lower-cost manufacturing sources in order to meet demands of government for ever lower prices.” In response, the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) said at any time shortages of individual brands or strengths can occur, but for most medicines supplied in Ireland, "there are alternatives such as different strengths, brands or similar classes to ensure continuity of care”.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

Opinion

The Fact Of OfThe Matter Paul Hopkins

For many, it’s going to be lonely this Christmas Despite the apparent uplift in the economy, costs still remain high for fuel and basic foods. Many families and individuals are turning to the ever busy de Paul Society for assistance, with the local charity spending more than €8,000 a week helping those in need. The society was also particularly aware of the scourge of homelessness – 13,179 and rising – and spoke of the society’s volunteers giving assistance and friendship to many. Friendship to those who will be lonely this Christmas. And loneliness is not just the prerogative of Kilkenny, nor any other county. Although she did marry and honeymooned in Ireland, her ancestral home, Charlotte Bronte once said: “The trouble is not that I am single and likely to stay single, but that I am lonely and likely to stay lonely.” The late Mother Theresa

said: “The most terrible poverty is loneliness, and the feeling of being unloved.” While the Christmas countdown is now well in full swing, one in every 10 on this island faces being alone over the festive holiday, according to Alone. We may well be living longer, with those 65 and over now numbering one in nine of the population of this island. But, while we have succeeded in adding years to the life, how successful are we as a society in adding life to the years? While many older people are still embedded in the heart of their family and community, others have become increasingly isolated. It is a sad indictment that, in an age where people are more connected than ever with iThis and iTheOther, so many feel socially marooned. Loneliness is different from being alone. Many older people — already isolated

through bereavement, disability or living in the back of beyond — can find their solitary lives decidedly difficult. We are social creatures, and days in unsought isolation makes for an unhealthy life, saps morale and can, sadly, nudge towards depression and mental illness. Loneliness can be as corrosive as any cancer, says Irish journalist and counsellor Anne Dempsey, author of The Retirement Handbook. Loneliness, I would argue, has a direct correlation with the State’s erosion of local communities and community infrastructure. The rural post office, the bank, the corner shop, the fair and the livestock mart were all part of the fabric of society, contributing socially as well as commercially to people coming together. A decline in neighbourliness is another concern. Nobody wants to get involved anymore, as my Auntie May

was wont to say, the same Auntie May who told her daughter before she popped her mortal socks that she did not want to lie in the church overnight because “I don’t want the neighbours knowing I have died”. She was 94. You should get out more

“The most terrible poverty is loneliness...

often, get more involved, is something you’ll often hear the younger among us say to older people. However, for some, combating loneliness is not a simple matter of going out and joining a club. Often, what has caused a withdrawal from society has deeper roots including fears, shyness and lack of confidence. Anne Dempsey says addressing these roots is the first step to breaking barriers down. “This is where you and I come in. Society as a whole has a part to play in combating loneliness. Those of us with an older neighbour, friend or relative living alone could take time to phone or visit,” she says. A regular half-hour visit could make a wealth of difference in helping someone feel wanted and remembered. The heartbreaking reality is that older people, alone this Christmas, are living in hope

that they will get an invite to dine with someone, instead of spending the day staring at the four walls. We are all potentially facing old age and yet the elderly are sometimes almost invisible, as if we don’t want to accept that this may well be our fate too some day. [Declaration here: I have the travel pass]. Most of us fear being alone. And its attendant consequences. A life with frequent human, everyday interaction has the potential to be a life rich in connection, engagement and belonging. It’s good to talk: it’s what we do best As someone once said to me: “It’s not loneliness that makes being alone unbearable but accepting the fact that of the 8.1 billion of us on this planet, not a single soul has sought, or fought, hard enough to be with you.’’ A sobering thought this Christmas.

Shop Kilkenny: Supporting Local Businesses, Jobs, and Communities this Christmas The Local Enterprise Office Kilkenny and Kilkenny County Council are proud to present #ShopKilkenny 2023, an innovative initiative aimed at encouraging everyone to shop local this festive season. With the holiday season fast approaching, the Shop Kilkenny Christmas campaign is a heartfelt reminder of the importance of supporting our local businesses. By choosing to shop within our communities, we can continue to foster economic growth, sustain livelihoods, and create new job opportunities. The campaign aims to highlight the abundance of exceptional local produce and unique gift options available to the consumers of Kilkenny. From artisanal crafts to delicious festive treats, our vibrant community offers an array of choices to suit every style and budget. Speaking about the #ShopKilkenny campaign, Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr Michael

Doyle said, "This initiative showcases the true spirit of Kilkenny by championing our local businesses. By shopping locally, we not only invest in the growth and prosperity of our community, but we also contribute to the preservation of our unique identity." As we navigate these challenging times, it is crucial to remember that your purchasing decisions can make a significant impact on the lives of our neighbours and friends. By choosing to

shop local, you are directly supporting the heartbeat of Kilkenny and ensuring a brighter future for us all. Join us in spreading the spirit of giving this Christmas season. Follow the hashtag #ShopKilkenny on social media to discover the hidden gems, storefront displays, and special offers that await you throughout the county. Visit our website www. localenterprise.ie/kilkenny for more information.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

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News

Our 15-year-olds are whizz-kids at learning Our 15-year-olds outperform their peers across the EU and all OECD counties when it comes to literacy, according to the outcome of tests administered by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). They are also performing significantly higher in mathematics and science.

The organisation's Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) tests, which measure skills and knowledge in the three key domains, are normally held every three years. However, the most recent round, which saw 690,000 15-year-olds tested across 81 countries, was delayed for a

year due to the pandemic. In reading, the performance of Irish teens puts them ahead of every other OECD country, and second only to Singapore among the 81 countries and regions that participated. In science, Irish 15-year-olds are estimated to be in 12th place, while in maths their scores place Ireland 11th.

In 2018, Ireland was placed 21st and 22nd in maths and science. The data also shows a significant improvement in science performance here compared to four years earlier. While on average across the OECD science scores fell slightly between 2022 and 2018, in Ireland they rose by 7.7 points.

Department of Education staff who have analysed the data say a new science curriculum and its inquiry based approach may have contributed to this improvement. In maths, Irish performance has fallen. Our latest score, at 491.6 points, is eight points lower than that of 2018. However this compares with

a greater decline of an average of almost 15 points in maths scores across the OECD. Ireland's Educational Research Centre says a slightly smaller than expected number of Irish students participated in the 2022 tests and they say there is evidence that overall performance was slightly stronger as a result.

Revenue are 'wrong on farm VAT' says Cahill The Chairperson of the Oireachtas Agriculture Committee, Jackie Cahill TD, has hit out at the three-pronged attack Revenue has launch on farmers by refusing VAT rebates on essential agricultural items. Deputy Cahill has strongly criticised uninformed decision makers within the Revenue Commissions who have unilaterally taken the decision to no longer permit VAT rebates to farmers for slurry bags, calf feeders and bulk tanks. Deputy Cahill said: “I have been arguing with the Revenue Commissioners over the last number of months in relation to items they are disqualifying for VAT rebates for farmers. It is extremely worrying to see the list of items growing that Revenue have now decided are not qualifiable for VAT rebates. “Slurry bags took the first blow from Revenue. A slurry bag is essentially a lagoon used by small and medium sized farmers for holding slurry or for additional slurry storage when required. For anyone to say that this is not a fixed item and therefore could be moved demonstrates a utter lack of knowledge on the matte.” On Revenue's approach to automatic calf feeders in the same manner, he said: “It is concentrated Government policy to see animal welfare maintained and improved,

and this is only right. Calf feeders play their part in this, especially with the labour shortage on farms at the moment. With the promotion of the dairy calf to beef policy by the Government, these were an essential part of the policy. “Calf feeders are installed permanently into farm buildings to be used by the calves on the farm. The argument by Revenue that they are movable and therefore not subject to a VAT rebate is nonsense. Again, basic knowledge of this subject would have informed the decision makers that calf feeders have to be solidly in place so that they are not knocked or damaged by calves.” Deputy Cahill then highlighted the third attack taken by Revenue against farmers, this time in relation to bulk dairy tanks. “I learned that Revenue are now rejecting applications from farmers for VAT rebates on bulk dairy tanks. These tanks fit into the farmer’s dairy and the dairy is often built to accommodate a particular bulk tank. When one is installed in an existing structure, it can be extremely difficult to get it into the building. “Bulk tanks are an essential part of any dairy farmer’s set-up. They are very much part and parcel of the operation and they are obviously permanent fixtures by their very nature."

Calls for renewed focus on our homelessness The cost of not intervening and acting has a longer term consequence on individuals and families experiencing homelessness, according to Depaul’s Chief Executive David Carroll. Speaking at the launch their Homeless Crisis Christmas appeal, Mr.Carroll told of a growing number of adults and children presenting with significant mental health issues and said the needs of a homeless person was much more than a bed for the night. They are now supporting 80% more families through Depaul’s Family Homeless Action Team, with almost half of families (45%) having been in Depaul accommodation for longer than a year. Mr Carroll said: “Home-

lessness is one of the biggest challenges we face in Ireland and comes with a staggering human cost. “Many of our clients (both individuals and families) present with multiple complex support needs, including any combination of physical health, mental health and addiction issues. Homelessness discriminates, has a severe impact on a person's physical and mental health, and takes away basic human rights such as housing and health. Homelessness can be a desperately lonely and isolating place to be, especially in the run up to Christmas.” Mr. Carroll said: “The groups we work with are telling us they are at breaking point. They are feeling the pressure of being in temporary accommodation

- mentally, physically and financially. Many of our clients are living in a constant state of uncertainty, having to endure unsuitable living conditions and with little emotional support. Homeless services are not designed for long term stays. Temporary accommodation should only be used as a short-term emergency measure yet many are finding themselves living in homeless accommodation for several years.” “People are feeling extremely overwhelmed and there is limited mental health support available, he said. "The lack of uncertainty creates stress for the children in having no security long term and impacts hugely on the children

if they especially have to change accommodation, creches and schools. The changes in a child's early formative years can have a huge impact on their well being and ripple through to their developmental stages,” Mr Carroll said. “It is therefore of utmost importance to put adequate mental health support in place for adults and children in homelessness all year round, but particularly now at this time of year. Intervening early, before homelessness and health issues progress, is among the most effective ways to address the homelessness crisis.” * You can donate to Depaul’s urgent Christmas Appeal at www.depaul. ie or by calling 014537111.

App will help to streamline accountancy services Ifac, Ireland’s farming, food and agribusiness specialist professional services firm, has announced the release of a brand new mobile app for its Kilkenny clients. The phased rollout of this innovative technology is now underway and will allow

ifac clients to streamline their accountancy services unlike before. The new mobile app is designed with the client in mind, giving them the ability to securely access and manage their accountancy services on the go and share real-time

banking information with their ifac accountant. By using this app, clients will be able to save time and reduce paper usage as they access banking information, view correspondence with ifac and other associated documents, and easily find their

ifac team's contact details. According to ifac Chief Executive, John Donoghue: "Digitalisation is upon us and this step is a positive move for clients, giving them secure access to their financial information wherever they are. “At the heart of our brand

is a promise to our clients to provide them with the full depth and breadth of our financial expertise and sectoral experience to help them grow their businesses. This includes working proactively with them to help make their lives easier, transform their

accountancy experience through our services, and ensure they stay connected to their team for vital advice and support.” Ifac clients can contact their local ifac office to get all set up and begin using the mobile app.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

Opinion

As I See It Marianne Heron

Time to have a conversation about consent Judgemental attitudes to unmarried mothers are at the heart of the Gaiety Theatre’s adaptation of Brinsley MacNamara’s novel ‘The Valley Of The Squinting Windows’ brilliantly staged earlier this month. When published in 1918 the book caused outrage and it was publicly burned. Times have certainly changed, I thought after the performance – or have they? The stigma that drove unmarried women to Mother & Baby homes or to Britain has gone and in years of covering feminist issues I saw a raft of legislation dealing with women’s rights from unmarried mother’s allowance to equal pay. But one thing remains obstinately unaltered. Reports of sexual violence shock us almost daily, continuing like a

virulent epidemic, despite the way that society has changed and consciousness-raising with disclosures like the ‘Me Too campaign. A Central Statistics Office survey in 2022 found that 40% of adults suffered sexual violence from harassment to nonconsensual sex, with 52% of women and 28% of men affected. And the figures for sexual violence keep climbing. The Garda crime figures for 2022 show that rape and sexual assault were up 13% and 18% on 2019. What can be done to turn the tide in this continuing, horrific abuse? The first adverts aimed at driving change around sexual consent aired last week on national radio. Part of a three-year campaign led by the Dublin

Rape Crisis Centre (DRCC) and the Community Foundation’ We- Consent’ is supported by the Department of Justice. A conversation around consent is long overdue, believes Sarah Monaghan, Consent Project Manager at DRCC. “Historically the level of silence and shame around everything related to sex has been deafening and everyone, particularly women, have suffered as a result. People of all ages have something to learn when it comes to consent whether they have been dating for four months or married for 40 years as our wants and needs will change through life. The traditional perception is that men pursue sex and women grant or don’t grant permission. We believe this does all parties a disservice.”

Research by the DRCC found that there was a good deal of misunderstanding about consent. So how is it defined? Basically, it is about agreement to engage in sexual activity between equal partners: “Rather than one person trying to ‘get something off the other,” says Sarah Monaghan. It’s also about recognising that consent is founded in respect between partners and it shouldn’t be assumed, and can’t be given where there is manipulation or threats, or happen when someone is drunk or asleep. There are a lot of stereotypes that cloud issues about sexual relationships and can prevent survivors of sexual violence being believed. There are toxic, sexist attitudes of the type that emerged during the 2018 Belfast rape trial

and judgmental attitudes towards women about being teases or “asking for it” if dressed in a certain fashion. Research carried out by the DRCC found that 81% of those surveyed agreed that talking about consent is a real opportunity for people in Ireland to have a healthier relationship with sex and sexuality while 72% agreed a better understanding of consent would help equality between women and men. “It’s also important that we bring this conversation into the mainstream so that people have more understanding about the stereotypes often repeated in discussions on consent and sexual violence,” says Ms Monaghan. “We have seen how conversations, at a national level, at a community level, and those who take place

Feel good on the inside - Look great on the outside

CLAIR WHITTY

This time of the year many of you are planning parties and get togethers with friends and family. You want to look and feel your best but maybe you’re not feeling that right now. Perhaps you are constantly feeling bloated and uncomfortable in your clothes or they just don’t fit because you have put on a few pounds over the year. Or maybe your skin has lost its glow? Feeling good inside depends on a healthy diet and the ability

to absorb the nutrients from the foods that you eat. If you have any signs of sluggish digestion with bloating, wind, constipation, or just general digestive discomfort then start taking your digestive enzymes. Some of you may have a box in the back of the cupboard. Take them before meals. A popular choice is Udo’s Choice Digestive Enzymes which you can get also in a small travel pack. It’s a perfect size to take with you for social events where you have no control over the menu. Healthy digestion is one step towards helping you better. You may have gained a few pounds that you would like to

around individual kitchen tables, have changed Irish society time and time again, as evidenced in our national referenda for example, and we believe that education and discussion around consent will contribute to changing society for the better,” says Sarah Monaghan The issue of consent is covered in classrooms in Relationship and Sexuality Education (RSE) at primary school. At junior level post primary, a new sex education programme came on stream this year and at senior level a new programme with be mandatory from next year. Perhaps there should be adult programmes too in a country which traditionally has difficulty talking about sexual matters Why not such programmes in workplaces or sports clubs? shift so you can fit into your festive clothes. Take a look New Nordic Fat Burner. I have talked about this before and many of you have found it helpful. It’s based on well-proven ingredients like choline to support normal metabolism of fats. It also contains Yerba mate, a herb included to support weight loss. The idea is to take the supplement in conjunction with a healthy diet and lifestyle. It is not intended as a magic pill - it is to support healthy fat metabolism. It might be that kick start you are looking for. One of the most important nutrients for healthy glowing skin is plenty of water. Ater that, omega oils to hydrate and nourish the skin. You can get omega oils from oily fish, chia seeds, flax seeds as well as a variety of other nuts and seeds. Include avocado, hemp oil, flax oil, rotate these and have different oils every time. If you can’t manage these foods daily top up on an Omega Oil Blend. My favourite blend is Udo’s Choice Ultimate Oil Blend. It comes in oil which you can add to smoothies or drizzle over vegetables, or capsules. Look Good Feel Good this year! 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 December 2023

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

PictureGeneration special Music

Singing in a Winter wond

Music GenerationK M

usic Generation Kilkenny is gearing up for a very musical Christmas. Children and young people involved in our music programmes are busy preparing for two special performances in the lead up to Christmas. On the 15th of December at 6:30 pm 200 children from CBS primary, De La Salle Primary, St. John of God primary and the School of the Holy spirit will come together and collaborate onstage for the

SINGOUT performance at St. Canice’s Cathedral. Tickets available on Eventbrite On the 10th of December at 12:00 pm children and young people from the ‘Creative Music Space’ rock and pop music hub will perform on the parade bandstand during Yulefest Kilkenny. Free event. SINGOUT – SINGING IN A WINTER WONDERLAND SINGOUT is an exciting opportunity for primary school children in Kilkenny. In the six weeks leading up to Christ-

mas children from primary schools in Kilkenny have been preparing a programme of festive songs with musician educators Barbara Kelly and Clare Kilkenny. Barbara and Clare deliver workshops in the schools each week preparing the children with musical games, body percussion and songs. It gives the children the opportunity to connect through singing and to come together through the sphere of meaningful music making. Joining them onstage will be young musicians from

the Creative Music Space as well as young string musicians from St. Kieran’s NS, Johnstown and Scoil Naomh Fiachra, Clontubrid. This programme of whole class violin began just after the pandemic. It has gone from strength to strength, with children learning violin from 3rd – 6th class, led by musician educator Andreea Bouros. The children are looking forward to performing in St. Canice’s Cathedral and for many it will be their first time performing in public.

Speaking about the workshops and concert Music Development Officer with Music Generation Kilkenny Sinéad Blanchfield said “The SINGOUT concert was a great success last year with a soldout concert in St. Canice’s Cathedral. Singing together is so important for Childrens’ wellbeing and I’m delighted to bring this opportunity to young people in Kilkenny again this year. Children from primary schools taking part in SINGOUT will have the opportunity to sing together

on-stage as one voice in the beautiful surroundings of St. Canice’s Cathedral. This is a special moment in the context of our collective journey this year.” Niall Bergin, principal of CBS Primary School said, “we are delighted to have Music Generation Kilkenny working with our school. It is fantastic to see our pupils develop their musical talents and learn how to play a musical instrument. The tutors, Paul and Tom, have developed a great rapport with our classes and

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special MusicPicture Generation

erland with

ilkenny deliver the lessons in a fun and engaging way on a weekly basis. Our 4th class pupils are also taking part in the Music Generation Kilkenny 'SINGOUT' Concert in St. Canice’s Cathedral. Pupils have been preparing diligently with their teachers and with Music Generation Kilkenny tutors, Clare and Barbara. We look forward to seeing the boys perform in SINGOUT on the 15th of December “ St. Canice’s Cathedral is a magnificent concert venue. Music Generation Kilkenny is delighted to partner with St. Canice’s Cathedral to bring the children and young people from our programmes to public attention in this wonderful setting. We hope that people in Kilkenny will come out and join the children in song and support our emerging young Kilkenny talent.

Tickets are Adults - €10; Children - €4; Children under 6 – free, Family ticket - €26.00 Tickets are available on Eventbrite or scan the QR code on the poster below. Information: musicgenerationkilkenny@kcetb.ie Music Generation Kilkenny is part of Ireland’s national music education programme, initiated by Music Network and co-funded by U2, The Ireland Funds, the Department of Education and Local Music Education Partnerships. The programme seeks to transform the lives of children and young people ages 0-18 by creating access to high quality, affordable music tuition in their localities. Locally, the programme is led by Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board in partnership with Kilkenny County Council.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

Opinion

Your Money & You John Ellis

Life cover breakthrough for cancer survivors For many it is unfair that having had cancer and survived you still can’t access life cover, even Mortgage Protection cover even though you have had the ‘all clear’ for years. This adds extra stress on the whole process of trying to get a mortgage to buy a home. Well, the good news is that in a groundbreaking move insurance industry leaders, through Insurance Ireland, have adopted a Code of Practice aimed at giving cancer survivors access to Mortgage Protection policies. The primary objective of the code is to eliminate obstacles for cancer survivors seeking Mortgage Protection. Under the new code, insurers commit to disregarding any cancer history during the underwriting process. No additional premium will be charged, and cover will not be refused based on previous cancer diagnoses. This represents a significant step towards ensuring that indi-

viduals who have triumphed over cancer can easily secure the life cover they need. Under this new Code of Practice specific conditions apply. For decreasing Mortgage Term Protection, the following criteria must be met: Your treatment must have ended more than seven years prior to the application for Mortgage Protection (or more than five years if you were under 18 at the time of diagnosis). The term ‘treatment has ended’ is crucial to understanding how the code is applied to your application. It means complete remission, as determined by your treating oncologist – meaning the absence of signs and symptoms related to a cancer diagnosis. Active treatment, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and other evidencebased medical approaches must have finished seven or more years prior to the application.

The amount of cover required is limited and cannot exceed €500,000 and the

policy must be for a mortgage on a principal private residence, ie. you are going

to live in the property. The application needs to be for a new individual mortgage protection term policy with no serious illness cover attached. But let’s say you require cover for €600,000. Then the €500,000 is set up under the code and the balance €100,000 has to be accessed and, if there is a loading (an extra premium applied), the loading will apply only to the amount over the €500,000. However, it is essential to note that other medical conditions may still impact the underwriting decision; for example, you are clear of cancer for more than seven but you have diabetes; the diabetes will have to be reviewed with your GP details of treatment being requested. It’s important to note that, if you have been cancer clear for seven years you are still legally obliged to honestly answer questions in the application form. However, if you meet the criteria, the

insurers will underwrite the policy as if the cancer never happened. (You can if you wish choose full underwriting if you prefer, but the code ensures that you won’t be charged additional loadings for a qualifying cancer history.) This commitment under the Insurance Ireland Code of Practice for Underwriting Mortgage Protection Insurance for Cancer Survivors is a significant stride toward financial security for those who have battled cancer. It not only streamlines the underwriting process but also demonstrates the industry’s dedication to support you in your journey to secure a home and financial stability, irrespective of your past health challenges. As Ireland embraces this new era in insurance, other providers are likely to follow suit in the near future. john@ellisfinancial.ie 086 8362622

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News Science & Wellbeing

Baby won’t sleep: support needed for parents to navigate sleep deprivation

A leading clinical psychologist has spoken about the pressure on parents to always get things right, along with myths and misconceptions that come with parenting. Irish born Dr Emma Bagnall, registered senior clinical psychologist, holistic sleep coach and mother of two with over 13 years’ experience working with children and their families has given her advice to The Baby Tribe podcast. Dr Bagnall spoke about the worries that mothers have about making mistakes when soothing and regulating their baby, that they’re somehow going to do some long term damage: “There’s so much on social media, particularly around connection and co-regulation, and it’s absolutely fantastic that we’re seeing that but sometimes the way that it’s portrayed, it’s almost like mams feel like they need to do that 24/7. “They always need to have the perfect response, they always need to have time to slow down and soothe and regulate, and that’s not the reality of real life parenting. With the exception of very traumatic events it is very unlikely that if you don’t respond

the way that you would like to as a parent, that you’re going to do any long standing damage” Dr Bagnall continued: “Ultimately the big piece for parents is that you will mess up. You are human. You will make mistakes. You’re going to be sleep deprived. You’re not going to be perfect but it’s what you do with that afterwards that really matters. It’s that repair that you can do with your child, where you can go back and say, I’m really sorry, I shouldn’t have shouted at you at that time, that there’s always opportunity to repair”. Dr Bagnall also spoke about the myth that exists in parenting regarding babies sleeping through the night. She spoke about the subjective nature of baby sleep: “For some people that would be where the baby goes down and they sleep and they do not stir until morning time. For other people, it could be, they go down to sleep, they wake for a really quick feed and they go straight back asleep and they continue on. You know, it’s very different. Or for some people it could be that for them to sleep through the night, that has to be at least eight hours. Whereas for somebody else four hours

could be great. I think there’s a lot of pressure on parents to have their baby sleep through the night. It’s one of the very first questions you’re always asked. Are they good and are they sleeping yet? That ‘yet’ word is a pet peeve of mine, because it kind of implies that, well, if they’re not, then they should be. And you need to get there. And it just ignores the reality that babies will wake during the night. In fact, as adults, we wake during the night. We just don’t know it anymore because our sleep cycle is so mature but our babies are only developing and they need support with that,” she said. “I think there’s so much focus on getting the baby to sleep, when actually what’s needed is support for the parents on how to navigate that absolute sleep deprivation. That would be far more powerful and useful in the situation than trying to get really stressed and frustrated with getting your baby to do something that biologically, they are not actually able to do yet. Dr Bagnall also spoke about fostering babies’ emotional development. She advises integrating connection into your life as a way of being in

parenting instead of trying to fit it in. She said: “It’s nice to have those moments set aside for connection. Like for me with my eldest in particular, she loves to sit down and read books with me. That’s a really nice way for us to connect. But when life

is busy, I don’t always have time to do that, and it doesn’t have to look like that. So often parents are actually doing more than they realise, and so it could even just be a case of chatting to them and involving them in what you’re doing. “That is all that they want at

Emma passionate about infant mental health Emma Bagnall’s journey in the field of psychology began with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the National University of Ireland in 2010. Building upon this foundation, she pursued a Master of Science in Applied Psychology at Trinity College Dublin in 2012. Determined to deepen my expertise, she went on to complete a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology, also at Trinity College, in 2018. As a Chartered member of The Psychological Society of Ireland, she upholds the highest standards of professional practice. Dr Bagnall gained extensive experience working with young children, adolescents and parents across a variety of settings including primary care and children’s disability services, especially within the area of neurodivergence in general and autism more specifically. She is particularly passionate about infant mental health, attachment, parenting, navigating parenting and the matrescence journey, and supporting families of neurodivergent children through comprehensive assessment and intervention.

that age. They just want to be included. They want to feel seen. They want to feel heard. So for me, it could be having my eldest stand in her kitchen helper while I’m trying to cook the dinner, and I can’t give her my undivided attention. But we certainly are connecting with each other. We’re chatting about what we’re cooking, and she feels involved and she feels important”. The Baby Tribe is hosted by Neonatologist & Paediatrician Afif El-Khuffash and Katie Mugan from NursingMama.ie and is dedicated to providing parents and caregivers with the latest information and expert advice on baby health and nutrition. From prenatal care to feeding and nutrition, this podcast covers all the important topics relating to newborn and baby care. This season of the podcast includes interviews from some high-profile mums and dads about their experiences as new parents, as well as discussions on a range of contemporary parenting topics. * Link to the podcast - https://open.spotify.com/ episode/5tuJQEyIJJao4mQ6 XQdUco?si=Aidu4AyATVeq G1j5B1nvhQ

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Travel & Leisure

When in Rome Making the most of a day in this historic city

A day in Rome may seem short but, with careful planning, you can still experience the city’s major attractions. Our itinerary balances iconic sights with hidden gems, so you’ll leave feeling like you’ve truly experienced the heart of Rome. First things first, decide whether you want to explore on your own or join a guided tour. Both options have their perks – going solo allows for flexibility, while a tour provides expert insights and the chance to skip long lines at popular attractions. Whichever you choose, make sure to have your Google Maps account ready to navigate Rome’s winding streets and piazzas. When visiting Rome, every minute counts. So how can you make the most of your time? Start by rising early – the early bird catches the worm, after all. Try to begin your day no later than 7-7:30 am to visit major attractions like the Trevi Fountain and Vatican Museums before the crowds swarm in. Starting early and prebooking tickets for attractions like the Colosseum and the Vatican can help save time and money. This ensures you won’t waste precious hours in long queues or miss out on must-see attractions. And, of course, dress appropriately for religious sites like St.

Peter’s Basilica – covering your shoulders and knees is a must. No two travellers are alike, so feel free to tailor our Rome itinerary to your preferences and time constraints. For instance, if you’re a history buff with limited time, prioritise the Colosseum and Roman Forum. Alternatively, if you’re more interested in art, dedicate more time to Vatican City and its stunning masterpieces. If you prefer a relaxed pace, you may want to modify the itinerary to start a bit later and concentrate on fewer places. You could focus on St Peter’s Basilica, the Colosseum, and a relaxed exploration of Rome’s historic centre. The choice is yours – Rome awaits! Kick off your morning with a visit to Vatican City, the world’s smallest sovereign state and the heart of the Roman Catholic Church. Here, you’ll discover aweinspiring art, architecture, and history at every turn, from the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel to the magnificent St Peter’s Basilica. We highly recommend taking the earliest tour you can. Take the 7:15 am tour of Vatican City, you’ll be glad you did. Get some great photos and the guide is amazing. An early morning tour of Vatican City offers several advantages:

You beat the crowds. You have more time to explore the rest of Rome later in the day. Companies like Get Your Guide offer small group tours that grant you exclusive access to the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel before they open to the public. Joining a guided tour will give you access to expert knowledge, helping you spot all the hidden treasures of the Vatican. Plus, many tours include the secret tunnel between the Sistine Chapel and St Peter’s Basilica, allowing for a seamless transition between these must-see attractions. St Peter’s Basilica, the largest church in the world, is an architectural marvel that draws millions of visitors each year. Step inside to marvel at Michelangelo’s La Pietà, the Baldacchino, and St Peter’s Chair. For an unforgettable experience, don’t miss the dome climb, offering a panoramic view of Rome from its highest point. To bypass long queues and optimise your time, you might want to book a tour that offers priority access to St Peter’s Basilica, located in the heart of Peter’s Square. This way, you can focus on soaking in the breathtaking beauty of this iconic site without the hassle of waiting in queues. After soaking up the wonders of Vatican City,

your stomach might start to grumble. Perfect timing, because it’s time to grab some amazing Italian Food! Head over to Alice Pizza or Scialla the Original Street food, both just a stone’s throw away from Vatican City. Alice Pizza is a local favourite, serving up slices of heaven (also known as pizza) that you can customise to your heart’s content. The variety of toppings they have will make your head spin! If you’re in the mood for something different, Scialla the Original Street food is your go-to. It’s the perfect spot to sample some authentic Roman street food. Their paninis are to die for, and their pasta? Delizioso! Once you’ve refuelled and recharged, you’ll be ready to continue your Roman adventure by heading over to the legendary Colosseum. You have various options to get to the Colosseum: take the metro from Ottaviano station, walk to St Angelo Bridge, and hail a taxi, or enjoy an hourlong walk through the city. No matter your choice, be sure to take in the sights and sounds of Rome as you make your way to this iconic landmark. With the morning dedicated to Vatican City, the afternoon is the perfect time to delve into Ancient Rome. Make your way to the Colosseum and Roman Forum, where you’ll learn about the city’s glorious

past and walk in the footsteps of emperors, gladiators, and everyday citizens. The Colosseum, Rome’s most iconic symbol, is an absolute must-see. This ancient amphitheater, once the stage for brutal gladiator fights and other spectacles, can be explored with a guided tour or on your own. By booking online tickets that allow you to skip the line in advance, you’ll save time and ensure access to this worldfamous attraction. Before entering the Colosseum, climb the steps on the north side to capture stunning photos of its exterior. Then, step inside and immerse yourself in the history and grandeur of the Roman Empire as you wander its colossal halls and imagine the battles that once took place within. Next, venture to the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, the heart of Ancient Rome. These sites offer a rich tapestry of the city’s history, from the grandeur of its imperial palaces to the daily lives of its citizens. The Roman Forum, once the bustling center of the city, is a sprawling complex of ruined temples, basilicas, and vibrant public spaces. As you wander through its ancient streets, you can almost hear the echoes of the Roman citizens who once gathered here for political, legal, and social

activities. Don’t miss the Arch of Titus, a triumphal arch that commemorates the victories of Emperor Titus, and the Basilica of Constantine, a monumental structure that once served as a public meeting house. Just uphill from the Roman Forum is Palatine Hill, one of the seven hills of Rome and the birthplace of the city according to the legend of Romulus and Remus. This was the chosen location for the homes of Rome’s emperors and aristocrats, and the ruins of their grand palaces still stand today. Be sure to visit the Flavian Palace and the House of Augustus, where you can marvel at the remnants of ornate frescoes. From the top of Palatine Hill, you’ll also be rewarded with panoramic views of the city, including a bird’s eye view of the Roman Forum and the Circus Maximus. To make the most of your time, consider joining this guided tour that covers both the Colosseum and the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill. These tours often last around three to four hours and provide expert insights into the history and significance of these iconic sites. This way, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Rome’s fascinating past while ensuring you don’t miss any of the must-see attractions.

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Opinion

Furthermore Gerry Moran

Our oldest hotel and lots of room at the inns My heartiest congratulations to Jim Brennan of the Club House Hotel on being awarded the President’s Award at the recent Chamber of Commerce Business Awards ceremony in Lyrath. Jim has been running the Club House for the last 46 years and is most certainly deserving of the honour. The Club House Hotel is the oldest hotel in Kilkenny. It was also the first establishment of its kind in the city to take the name of ‘hotel’ instead of ‘inn’. The Club House gets its name from the Kilkenny Foxhunters’ Club, established in 1797 by Sir John Power. The Foxhunters had their club house in Patrick Street, under the management of a Mr Rice. In 1817, to exploit the opening of the new Cork road, it was formed into a hotel. Apart from catering for weary

travellers, the hotel provided accommodation and sustenance for hunt members who were too exhausted (or not exhausted enough) to go home. John Walsh then entered into partnership with Mr Rice. They added to the Club House the adjoining premises which had been the residence of Archdeacon Helsham. Messrs. Walsh and Rice opened this establishment on August 4, 1817, calling it The Hibernian Hotel and Foxhunting Club. The excellent management and fare of the hotel became known far and wide. In 1834, Henry Inglis, on a tour of Ireland, wrote of the Club House: “The Club House or Hibernian Hotel, Kilkenny is one of the very best I have ever found in any country, London not excepted. The wine is better quality than in England and an excellent whiskey punch

was to be had for five pence.” Around 1859 a Mr Simon Morris succeeded Messrs. Rice and Walsh as proprietor. Mr Morris often told of the great feat performed by Jack Courtenay, from Cork, who for a wager of £50, rode his horse ‘White Lion’ from the Club House stables, up the hotel stairs into the club room, jumped a fire screen and rode back out again. Mr Courtney was more than 60 at the time. He won the wager. Mr Thomas F. Murphy purchased the hotel in 1888. He renovated the premises, employing highly skilled Kilkenny craftsmen, and reopened it in 1889. The hotel continued to flourish until Mr Murphy’s death in 1922, after which his widow Mary Murphy ran the hotel. Mrs Florence Lee subsequently took over and sold it to Jim Brennan in 1977. The Club House Hotel is

still a popular meeting place for numerous clubs and societies, and Christmas parties, and is run by Jim and his son Ian. Staying with hotels, or rather inns, in the old days, travellers, rich and poor,

“Rode the horse up the hotel stairs..

were fed and sheltered free of charge in the abbeys and monasteries. When numbers became too great to cater for, inns were established close to the monasteries where the travellers were entertained without payment. These inns often had the sign ‘Bull’ outside. The word ‘Bull’ had nothing to do with the animal but comes from the Latin ‘bulla’ meaning seal, indicating that the inn was licensed under the seal of the abbey or monastery. The Bull Inn, which was very close to St Francis Abbey, was such a house of hospitality, attached to the abbey. It gave its name to the street where it stood, known as Bull Alley up to 1883 when it was widened and its name was changed to St Canice’s Place. Prior to its widening, Bull Alley was so narrow that people could almost shake hands across its roadway.

Other inns that have long vanished include: The Munster Arms and The Brazen Head, both situated in Walkin Street. The Swan Inn in William Street, then known as Bolton Lane, while The Kings Arms and The Red Lion were in John Street. The Bush Inn (now Syd Harkin’s) and The Garter were in Rose Inn Street and The Goat’s Beard and The Smulkin Tavern were on the Castle Road, then known as Castle Street. The George Inn was in Irishtown, while The Eagle Inn stood in Coal Market, now Parliament Street. Finally, The Sheaf had the reputation of being the best inn in Ireland. It stood in Rose Inn Street, facing the Parade and sported a large, gilded representation of a sheaf of wheat over the door. The pub, along with The Harp Bar, is now run by the Henderson family.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

News

“Officially named ‘Fairytale’ the most played Christmas song of the 21st century...

SPECIAL REPORT

The boys of the NYPD choir WILL sing ‘Galway Bay’ this Christmas Recorded by Shane MacGowan, who died last week, and the late Kirsty MacColl [pictured], ‘Fairytale Of New York’ has been lauded as a global Irish emigration anthem. It is an undisputed Christmas classic, annually topping most played and most loved Christmas song lists. It has more than 325 million listens on Spotify and 87 million on YouTube. Music body PPL officially named ‘Fairytale’ the most played Christmas song of the 21st century. In the chorus, Shane MacGowan, who died at 65 after a long illness – he was actually born on Christmas Day 1957 in England to Irish immigrants – has a standout lyric on which most listeners join in: “...the boys of the NYPD choir were singing Galway Bay…”. While people all over the world sing out that line, very few people realise there never was an NYPD choir, nor

did they ever sing ‘Galway Bay’… Until now. As an ode to Irish emigrants and Irish diaspora all over the world, EPIC, The Irish Emigration Museum, has created an NYPD choir, and have got them to sing ‘Galway Bay’, just before the bells start ringing out for Christmas Day. As champions of Irish emigrants the world over, EPIC wanted to bring this famed line to life. And to celebrate the song ‘Galway Bay’, another timeless Irish classic, penned by Irish

emigrant Arthur Colahan, as a tribute to his homeland. And so just over a month ago, 36 years after the first release of ‘Fairytale’, a handpicked group of retired NYPD officers, joined by a local amateur choir, gathered in a recording studio in the heart of New York City to lend their voices to the beloved ‘Galway Bay’. The result is a breathtaking rendition of this timeless Irish song, complemented by a music video that the Irish all over the world can resonate with. Aileesh Carew, CEO of EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, said: “At EPIC, we take immense pride in highlighting the stories and accomplishments of Irish emigrants, demonstrating that Irish identity transcends the geographical boundaries of our island. “With that in mind, what better way to celebrate this than by giving life to that

famous line in ‘Fairytale of New York’, performed by retired NYPD officers, all of whom proudly share Irish heritage. This Christmas, we hope that the NYPD Choir’s rendition of ‘Galway Bay’ will be shared far and wide, both at home and abroad.” Retired NYPD Officer John Behan said of the song ‘Galway Bay’: “My grandfather used to play it at Christmas time, that was a song that he liked. He was a tough guy but he got soft when that music came on. He was a good man.” The piece is also a fitting tribute to the impact that The Pogues’ ‘Fairytale of New York’ has had, with the song being described as a cultural touchstone for many Irish emigrants. On Friday, December 1, the day after MacGowan’s death, EPIC launched a supporting exhibition titled, ‘They Gave The Walls a Talking

– The Extraordinary Story of The Pogues and Shane MacGowan’. Developed in collaboration with Hot Press and running until the end of January 2024, the exhibition will delve into numerous themes, encompassing ‘songs of emigration’, ‘the creation of ‘Fairytale of New York’, ‘literary influences,’ and much more. Nathan Mannion, Head of Exhibitions & Programmes, EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum, said: “The Pogues are one of the greatest Irish bands of all time. They were part of an increasingly successful wave of Irish emigrant artists who made it big in Britain in the 1980s and ‘They Gave the Walls a Talking’ charts the marvellously wild, fiercely fiery, sometimes drunken and – in the end – wonderfully inspiring contribution The Pogues have made to music in Ireland and across the world.”

Niall Stokes, Editor of HotPress, said: “The Pogues music was – and remains – utterly unique. They took Irish folk and traditional music, shook it up to make it fizz like mad and injected into it a powerful punk spirit, and a wild Irish sense of abandon. But that was only the start of it. Within five years, the band had written some of the greatest songs ever about the experience of being Irish. It has been an enormous pleasure revisiting all of that musical magic and mayhem in preparing this pop-up exhibition, to which we have given the title ‘They Gave The Walls A Talking’’.” *Head to YouTube now to watch the video. Listen to the NYPD Choir’s ‘Galway Bay’ on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you stream your music. Visit www.epicchq. com to find out more about the exhibition.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

Opinion

“Captain, they’re coming, thousands of ’em!” An excerpt from INVADERS, the story of how a small band of men and women faced one of the most powerful armies on earth…

BY JOHN FITZGERALD

The bombardment had resumed shortly after dawn on Day Three of the battle for Callan. The first rays of sunlight coincided with the day’s first ball that came hurtling towards the castle; shattering hours of tense, sleepless watching and waiting for the inevitable. The cannonade persisted for

almost half an hour and then halted abruptly. More waiting followed. This respite lasted longer than the previous ones. Mark paced up and down restlessly outside the castle. He hated these lulls more than the fighting. It gave the mind time to brood and opened the door to doubt and anxiety. Forty five minutes passed, an hour... “This bloody waiting is torture!” he mumbled. He was about to ask Molloy what he thought was happening when his question was answered by a

lookout on the battlements. “Captain, they’re coming... thousands of ‘em!” “What? I don’t see them.” Mark was gazing down West Street at the barricade and as yet no Roundheads had climbed over to mount a third infantry attack. “No...Not there, Captain... over the West Wall: the second force. I can see them...two miles from here, maybe less.” Heedless of the exposure to cannon-fire on the parapet, Mark entered the castle and rushed upstairs to see

for himself. He grabbed the eyeglass from the militiaman. He gasped. A whole army on the move: Enemy formations stretching in five lines like enormous snakes along roads and across fields. Horseman in front...then wagons...infantry, gun-carriages...more infantry... dragoons on their small study mounts, cavalry cantering behind...and there…amidst the cavalcade of carriages...could it really be him? Yes...if the portrait did him justice. On a white mount... cloaked and armoured, and shielded by scores of bodyguards, rode the most feared man in Ireland, the deadliest foe it had faced since the dawn of time. The magnification wasn’t strong enough to reveal his expression, but it had to be one of supreme confidence. Mark lowered the eyeglass and gave it to the militiaman. His heart sank. “Well, lad, it seems we have an even bigger fight on our hands now.” “Bigger, Captain? That must be the entire English army coming to Callan!” A militiaman laughed nervously. Mark nodded agreement and patted the lookout on the back. He headed back down. There was nothing he could say to mitigate the cruel reality. They were now fighting for the sake of resistance...conspiring in their own deaths, But it wasn’t futile, he was certain

of that. Callan’s fight would aid the struggle elsewhere... *** The table beside which Marianne stood on the third floor vibrated with the impact of the cannon-fire, though none of the balls had penetrated the wall. The firing had resumed just minutes after sunrise. Every strike dislodged masonry, each thud sounding like a giant fist rapping on the castle, frantically trying to punch its way in. A cobweb fell on Marianne’s nose. She brushed it off, making light of it to a young girl who huddled with her mother and two sisters. Another ball struck as Marianne stooped to hand a cut of bread from the table to the girl. A loud reverberating crash sent a splotchy plod of dust and wriggling spiders hurtling to the floor. Another web fragment had alighted on a child’s biscuit, causing its mother to fuss and shake her head. Men cursed as brick powder sprayed their playing-cards. The large Confederate wall banner had fallen off three times, but each time defiant women had hung it back up. It symbolized their hopes and dreams, Marianne knew. She shared their devotion to the ideals of justice, freedom and religious emancipation it depicted, though she failed to see how these could ever be

realised. A jug of buttermilk quivered in her hand as she poured a mug for another mother who held a child. What on earth did the poor woman think she was doing here? She’d have been safer in the remotest wilds beyond the town. She’d repeated Corporal Molloy’s advice to everyone seeking refuge in the castle... that it wouldn’t guarantee their safety, most likely the opposite. But they insisted on staying. They couldn’t get their heads around the notion of soldiers being as vulnerable as them. The soldiers thought of themselves as protectors too but she presumed they knew in their hearts that there was precious little they could do to avert the inevitable. Then the firing stopped again, and a tension-racked silence followed that lasted longer than usual...Had it ended, people asked, as time dragged by. ”He’s coming, he’s coming!” someone hollered, rushing down from the battlements unto the top floor. “Who’s coming?” a man shouted back. He got his answer. Marianne’s heart sank when she heard that fearful name... End of Excerpt... My Book Invaders (volumes one and two) is available in Kilkenny bookshops and from Amazon.

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News

Kilkenny County Council adopt new Disability Inclusion Strategy 2023-26 At the recent plenary meeting of Kilkenny County Council, councillors adopted a Disability Inclusion Strategy that will guide policy over the next three years. This is the first strategy to be adopted by Kilkenny County Council since the expiration of the last one in 2014 and covers activities across the organisation to support access by disabled people to a range of activities provided and supported by Kilkenny County Council. Proposing the policy document, Cllr Maria Dollard highlighted the appreciation of the Kilkenny Access Group who were afforded an opportunity to consider the strategy before it was presented for approval to members. Cllr Dollard is a family carer and long-time campaigner for disability rights particularly in the

area of autism. She was appointed to the National Disability Inclusion Strategy Implementation Group and as a result became aware of the gaps in the policy at local level. Working with the Kilkenny Access Group to advocate for its development was very important as this was a priority for that group as well. “I welcome the strategy. I approached Kilkenny County Council in April 2022 to investigate why we didn’t have a strategy and how we could work together to develop one. We now have a shared document to work from and expect it to be monitored for outcomes on a regular basis, with Kilkenny Access Group, in order to evaluate if it is achieving its purpose. It is not acceptable that we have had no strategy for 10 years and opportuni-

L to R - Paul O’Rahilly, Susan Dowling, Mary Fennelly, Cllr Maria Dollard and Chairwoman Fiona O’Neill

ties have been lost as we did not have an access officer or strategy to refer to when planning vital infrastructure. We now have a policy document and working with Kilkenny County Council and Kilkenny Access Group we can work for a more inclusive Kilkenny, dismantling barriers to inclusion for people with physical, sensory, learning disabilities and autism.” The policy was also supported by Cllr John Coonan, who welcomed the policy and encouraged Kilkenny County Council to seek guidance and consultation from Kilkenny Access Group who are the experts in this field. “We need to listen to these people who have so much to offer in terms of expertise and knowledge” Members of Kilkenny Access Group were in the

Council Chamber to bear witness to the adoption of the policy. Commenting afterwards, Chairperson Fiona O’Neill said “ “As Chairperson of the Kilkenny Access Group, I commend Kilkenny County Council for adopting the Disability Inclusion Strategy 2023-26. This collaborative effort, in conjunction with our group, underscores a notable commitment to inclusivity. The engagement of the Kilkenny Access Group in the strategy's development ensures a comprehensive approach to addressing the diverse needs of individuals with disabilities. The appointment of an Access Officer and a cross-departmental committee highlights the council's dedication to driving positive change. Regular monitoring, in partnership with our group, will be essential for evaluating the strategy's efficacy. We eagerly anticipate working with the council to dismantle barriers and prioritize the inclusion of individuals with various disabilities, fostering a more accessible and equitable Kilkenny”. This policy will now be driven by this Access Officer and a cross departmental committee in Kilkenny County Council who will liaise with the Kilkenny Access Group and drive forward positive change for people with disabilities in Kilkenny.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

News

Climate Change

– are we all playing our part?

Festival Supports Grant Scheme 2024 Kilkenny County Council today (Friday 1st December, 2023) launched its Tourism Festival Supports Grant Scheme for 2024. Launching the scheme, Cathaoirleach Cllr. Michael Doyle noted “Kilkenny’s year-round calendar of events represents a significant part of Kilkenny’s attraction as a destination and the funding is an investment in our local economy, supporting commercial

activity which will sustain jobs in our local areas”. Successful Applicants will clearly demonstrate how their planned events impact on Kilkenny’s tourism industry along with Tourism Impact on Kilkenny and this year applicants are asked to demonstrate how they might contribute to the Night Time Economy in Kilkenny. Cllr Doyle went on to say “Kilkenny County Council will work with these festivals at a

strategic level to assist the festivals in development and programming, and in light of the Council’s Climate Change commitments festivals will be encouraged to “green” their festivals and become local champions.” Further information and application forms can be found on www. kilkennycoco.ie. The scheme is closing for applications on 31st January 2024.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

Global Report As Hitler’s genocidal antisemitism took hold, in 1938, Heinz Kissinger, then 15, and his family fled Nuremberg for New York. At least 13 close relatives who stayed were sent to the gas chambers or died in concentration camps. “My relatives are soap,” he remarked long afterwards. Kissinger, who changed his first name to Henry, rarely spoke of his upbringing but it imbued him with a deep pessimism about human nature. It convinced him of the paramount need for stability and order, even at the expense of human rights. “Given a choice of order or justice, he often said, he would choose order,” wrote Walter Isaacson, his biographer. “He had seen too clearly the consequences of disorder.” That world view gave rise to the realpolitik that Kissinger pursued during the eight dazzling years he served under the US presidents Richard Nixon and Gerald Ford, first as national security adviser and then as secretary of state. It led to his greatest successes: the opening of relations with Red China; détente with the Soviet Union; America’s withdrawal from Vietnam; and a rapprochement between Israel and Egypt. A brilliant, tireless negotiator and master of what he termed “constructive ambiguity”, he became a diplomatic superstar who dealt directly with presidents and prime ministers — Leonid Brezhnev (who once took him boar hunting), Zhou Enlai, Golda Meir, Anwar Sadat. He was a global celebrity who dated Hollywood stars, won the 1973 Nobel peace prize and enraged President Nixon by hogging the limelight and defying his orders. Asked to identify his greatest success and greatest failure, he replied with his customary wit: “I don’t quite understand your second point.” However, Kissinger was infamous too. He and Nixon

The lasting legacy of Henry Kissinger bombed neutral Cambodia and helped to propel that country into a singularly awful civil war. They encouraged General Augusto Pinochet’s overthrow of Salvador Allende’s democratically elected left-wing government in Chile — “I don’t see why we have to let a country go Marxist just because its people are irresponsible,” Kissinger said. They abandoned the Kurds

of Iraq, and connived in acts of violent repression by allies such as Pakistan, Indonesia and Iran. Kissinger’s many critics called him a war criminal. Like Nixon, he was vain, furtive, manipulative, duplicitous and paranoid. He shamelessly sidelined the State Department, Pentagon and Congress in his quest for total control of US foreign

policy. He threw tantrums, feuded with other top officials and had journalists and members of his own staff wiretapped to counter leaks. Although he emerged largely unscathed from the Watergate scandal that destroyed Nixon, he helped to foster the mindset and methods that caused it. The evening before Nixon resigned, in August 1974, he

summoned Kissinger to his private quarters in the White House. The president was “almost a basket case”, Kissinger said later. For 90 minutes they recalled their foreign policy triumphs and Kissinger assured the president that history would remember him kindly. Then, as Kissinger was leaving, Nixon asked his secretary of state and national security adviser to pray with

him. They went down on their knees and Nixon began to cry. “Nothing I have been through has ever been so traumatic,” Kissinger told aides afterwards. Gerald Ford replaced Nixon and Kissinger stayed on as secretary of state but by the 1976 presidential election Kissinger’s fortunes had begun to wane. Shorn of US support, South Vietnam had fallen to the communist Viet Cong. Liberals and the emerging Republican right of Ronald Reagan had begun to denounce the compromises with Soviet communism required by détente. In a nation that tends to see the world as good or evil, and whose foreign policy had traditionally been based on idealism, Kissinger’s European-style realpolitik fell out of favour. He was 54 when he left office, and though he did not serve in government again he remained an eminent and colourful public figure for the rest of his life. As recently as 2022, when he was 99, his opinion was still being sought in high places. And as he showed when he implied that Ukraine would have to cede territory to Russia if it wanted peace — prompting President Zelensky to respond by accusing Kissinger of 1930s-style appeasement — he could still make headlines around the world. Arguably, Henry Kissinger’s accomplishments were great, and far greater than his failures. The result is a lasting, worthy legacy of seriousness about the world and about the danger of a US foreign policy defined by either under-reach (isolationism) or overreach (trying to transform situations or regimes that can be only managed, at best). It is a legacy Americans would be wise to heed as they once again face a world marked by great-power politics and growing disarray.

Cyber-attacks and hacking in sharp rise The changing nature of cyber-attacks and geopolitical issues are causing a major ripple effect on digital security, as executives from Orange Cyberdefense unveiled research showing it processed almost 130,000 incidents in 2023. Speaking at an event in London to launch its annual Security Navigator 2024 report, Orange Cyberdefense vice-president of marketing and technology Olivier de Paillerets said its research found more organisations and countries were being targeted by hackers, motivated by state strategies along with criminal opportunities. In such an environment, he cautioned espionage, sabotage, disinformation and

extortion are becoming increasingly intertwined. “This unstable and unpredictable environment must convince us of the need to unwaveringly pursue a policy of prevention and support for our increasingly interconnected organisations.” Also speaking at the event,

the company’s senior security researcher Wicus Ross explained so-called hacktivism was a new external data set for its Security Navigator, growing substantially in prominence due to the war between Russia and Ukraine, with activity covering both sides of the conflict.

Ross explained an activist would typically try to attract attention to a cause through denial-of-service attacks or defacing websites. “This is what we look out for when war is involved.” The Security Navigator 2024 is designed to provide a broad picture of the world

of cybersecurity, using analysis and data gathered from more than 3,000 experts and 32 Orange Security Operations Centres globally. Its research covers the period between October 2022 and September 2023. Among its key findings, out of 129,395 detected

breaches (an increase of 30% year-on-year), 25,076 were confirmed as security incidents. Hacking was identified as the biggest threat, accounting for almost a third of incidents, followed by misuse and malware. In terms of sectors, manufacturing was by far the largest contributor to confirmed incidents, followed by retail trade and professional, then scientific and technological services. The company also found a record number of ransomware victims globally in 2023, with an increase of 46% to 3,500. Orange Cyberdefense is the operator’s entity dedicated to cybersecurity, with more than 8,700 customers.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

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WATERGATE THEATRE

30th Anniversary

SOME OF THE KILKENNY GREATS OF THE WATERGATE THEATRE BY GERRY MORAN

took photographs of performances in the Watergate Theatre for almost a period of twenty years. With my trusty little camera I took snaps of the good and the great who performed there. One of the best nights I ever had, however, was when I performed with The Kilkenny Greats (the title of the show) What the hell I was doing with The Kilkenny Greats I’m not entirely sure. I don’t sing, tell jokes, do magic tricks or play an instrument! What I actually did was recite some humorous verse and the reason I was cajoled into performing was because I was contributing regularly (short quirky bits) to Mike Murphy’s morning radio show on RTE and had a bit (emphasis on bit) of a profile. I’m still embarrassed about it. It was, however, an honour to be in the company of The Kilkenny Greats and for sure my camera went into overdrive that night. And then, of course, there were the kids bubbling, bursting with excitement as they performed in pantomimes, concerts and musicals. Mentioning musicals – yes, that’s my daughter Lizzie, all of five years old, playing the part of Gretel in The Sound of Music. To quote a review of the show: ‘Little Lizzie Moran, playing the part of Gretel (she alternated with Rachel White) stole the hearts of the audience as she popped out from that ‘clock’ singing ‘cuckoo.’ Yours truly may not have been great on the stage of the Watergate but little Lizzie Moran, my daughter, was.

Patsy O'Dwyer

J ters 2003

Jim Maher The Wizard of Oz 1997

Little Red Ri ng Hood 2004 J ters 2003

Yvonne Moriarty

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

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WATERGATE THEATRE

30th Anniversary

SOME OF THE KILKENNY GREATS OF THE WATERGATE THEATRE

Kay Brennan

Noel Power

Jesters 2003

Ollie Kearney

Eugene Dewber

Little Red Riding Hood 20

Lizzie Moran - The Sound

of Music 1998

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

Short story

'23 The Kilkenny Observer Newspaper is delighted to present our ‘2023 Christmas short story series’. We have invited four writers from Kilkenny to submit a short story over the coming weeks, which we hope you will enjoy. For this, our second week, we welcome Zurich based writer Catherine Cronin

Finn and Sandy unfreeze the park Other ghosts heard the commotion and gathered on the lawn with Finn. They watched the happy, frenzied dog pound the frozen grass, howl, and glow. Sandy was glowing so much that the frost around him was disappearing. Finn was amazed. Photo idea and design by Paul Kelly

BY CATHERINE CRONIN

It was early on December 23rd when Finn learned that heavy frost overnight had made the already snowy paths too dangerous for walking. The living who worked at the castle had no choice but to keep the gates shut to visitors. Finn supposed they couldn’t have people breaking ankles or crashing down on their tailbones that close to Christmas. It was unfortunate as this year there was a special exhibition of old Christmas cards and photographs from the castle’s history due to open that very day. So, everyone, particularly the castle’s ghosts, had been looking forward to lots of merry attendees eager to see long-forgotten faces. Finn did not feature in the exhibition for he had lived in a time before pictures. But other ghosts were thrilled to see themselves from Christmases long ago. Some were so giddy, they were more childlike than Finn, which made his spectral glow brighten in amusement. Still, the closure was disappointing for the young ghost. Finn could float over the ice so he hadn’t noticed the slippery paths. He would miss seeing living children come through the gates as usual excited to experience the castle’s festive welcome. “Don’t you remember, Finn?”, asked Lady Butler. “They always close the castle when the paths freeze”. Finn had forgotten. He was a very old ghost but still a young boy, so his memory could be a bit scatty. “I think so”, he lied. “But I love seeing the living visit at this time of year.” “What makes this time anymore special?”, asked an Earl. Finn thought about this for a moment. There were lots of reasons. Maybe it was the brightly-coloured novelty Christmas jumpers. Maybe it was the excited exchanging of Christmas wish lists in the playground. Or maybe it was seeing the rosy cheeks he no longer had. Then he remembered. “I like having other children around at Christmas,” Finn admitted. “because it reminds me of when I spent Christmas here with my friends.”

3rd Marchioness E. H. Grosvenor: The portrait of Elizabeth Harriet Grosvenor, 3rd Marchioness of Ormonde, which hangs at Kilkenny Castle. Used by kind permission of OPW

The living made the castle feel less empty. While there were lots of ghosts at the castle, they were grown-ups. And some of them were practically invisible, even to other ghosts for they liked their privacy. So did Finn when he was in a bit of a grumpy mood, or like now, feeling a bit fed up. He decided to float up to the Parade Tower for some quiet time. He passed Sir Langrishe and his dog playfully moving back and forth over the tower’s threshold. They were pushing up the visitor numbers on the gadget the living used to count guests. It was funny to see staff on the morning shift be spooked by the high nighttime figures, concluding that hundreds of ghosts must be haunting the tower. But tonight the hoax did not cheer Finn as usual. He was alone, looking out to the Christmas market on the Parade when he suddenly became aware of a presence in the tower with him. He looked around to see an old dog gently glowing in the corner. It was Sandy, the dog from the graveyard. He rarely left his spot down in the park, much less visit the tower. Finn went to him and hunkered down on one knee. “What’s wrong with you, fella?” The dog pounded the ground with his front right paw and turned towards the park. Finn

was confused. He continued to ask questions and every time the dog did the same thing with his paw. Sir Langrishe appeared at the doorway. “He can’t dig, Finn. The ground is too hard.” “But he’s a ghost. He can’t dig at any time!” Finn exclaimed. “Ah, he’s an old dog, Finn,” said Sir Langrishe. “He doesn’t know the difference. Poor thing”. Finn looked sadly at old Sandy. Sir Langrishe noticed. “But, you know, you could keep him company, until the ground thaws.”

When they reached his grave, Sandy, pounded the ground with his paw, circled the spot and lay down, defeated. Finn felt bad. Photo: jbs photo Kilkenny

“He’s not exactly the friendliest.”, an unconvinced Finn observed. This was true. Sandy liked his own company. Finn tried lots of times to play with him, but he just wasn’t interested. “He’s not a playful kind of dog, I know”, said Sir Langrishe, as if reading Finn’s mind. “But still, it might be a nice distraction for you both, if you tried”. With this, he left. Finn looked at Sandy for a while and then decided to bring him for a walk. Surely, ghost dogs liked walks too. But this dog was set in his ways and did not want to go to the woods, pond, or even the rose garden. Every time Finn walked too far for Sandy, the dog pounded his paw and turned back. Finn tried to play fetch with him, tossing an imaginary stick out towards the icy expanse of the park. The dog’s gaze did not break away from Finn’s face, as if judging the young ghost to be stupid. He looked at Finn with his beady deadpan eyes and pounded the ground with his paw again. “Oh, I give up!”, cried Finn. “I don’t know what you want!” Sandy blinked, cocked his head to one side, and walked away. Finn followed him. When they reached his grave, Sandy, pounded the ground with his paw, circled the spot and lay down, defeated. Finn

felt bad. Sandy must have once been a fun pet for someone. Finn looked at the holly wreath on Sandy’s grave, his eyes drifting to the words on the headstone: ‘Dumb creatures we have cherished here below, shall give us joyous greeting when we pass the golden gate.’ Suddenly, Finn had a realisation. It took some coaxing but he eventually convinced the old dog to follow him back to the castle. Finn remembered seeing a younger Sandy before. They reached the gallery with the Christmas exhibition. Finn showed Sandy a very special Christmas card on display. It took Sandy’s old eyes a moment to focus. But then he started panting excitedly and wagging his tail. The card showed a picture of him and his owner, Elizabeth, 3rd Marchioness of Ormonde. Finn knew she was not a ghost at this castle. So, Sandy had not seen her for a very long time. The card was signed, Love me, Lilah. Love my dog, Little Sandy. Sandy barked loudly, twirled on the spot, and glowed with glee. Then, he shot out of the gallery towards the park. Finn rushed after him. Other ghosts heard the commotion and gathered on the

lawn with Finn. They watched the happy, frenzied dog pound the frozen grass, howl, and glow. Sandy was glowing so much that the frost around him was disappearing. Finn was amazed. Soon, he and the other ghosts were glowing too at the sight of this once shy pup, thawing the park with his joy. “He’ll have the place fit to be open for Christmas Eve,” chuckled Sir Langrishe. “Nice job, Finn - whatever you did.” Tomorrow, the living would see the card that caused this little miracle, unaware of its magic. When Finn looked at the castle entrance where visitors would pass through, the Christmas lights arching it seemed to form a golden gate in greeting. Catherine Cronin is a writer originally from Kilkenny but currently living in Zurich, Switzerland. After a breast cancer diagnosis, writing became essential for coping with her new way of living. Catherine continues to write poetry and plays today. Her one-woman show, Orphan Disease, came to the Watergate Theatre in 2021, and her play, Caged, opened with Close Encounters Theatre in Zurich in 2022. Her short stage piece, Ancestor, is currently being adapted into a short film. *Photo: the portrait of Elizabeth Harriet Grosvenor, 3rd Marchioness of Ormonde, hangs at Kilkenny Castle. Used by kind permission of OPW.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

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Yulefest

Yulefest Movie Night to showcase outdoor screening of Christmas favourite The Muppet Christmas Carol

Yulefest Kilkenny will host an outdoor movie night on Thursday December 14th with a special screening of The Muppet Christmas Carol. Taking place at 7pm on Canal Square, everyone is welcome to attend. Tickets cost €3 plus booking fee. The Muppet Christmas Carol, based on Charles Dickens' timeless tale, is a

heart-warming film suitable for all ages. Join iconic characters such as Kermit the Frog and the unforgettable Scrooge and experience the magic of Christmas in a unique outdoor setting. Families are encouraged to wrap up and bring their own seating and refreshments. For more information see www.yulefestkilkenny.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

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Yulefest

Yulefest Kilkenny hosts a range of family events from Christmas markets, Santa truck, outdoor movie and jingle bell rockout Following its hugely successful launch last weekend, Yulefest Kilkenny has a range of events for the whole family this December. From Christmas markets to Santa experiences to live music, festive fun is on the agenda in Kilkenny in the run up to Christmas. Yulefest Christmas Markets The Yulefest Christmas market is magically set against the beautiful backdrop of Kilkenny Castle. Decorated wooden huts and Santa hat marquees will be serving festive treats and selling creative local crafts. Wired Irish Crafts, Biddy’s Good Luck Horse Shoes, The Phat Cow and Cakeface will be present on The Parade, among many other stalls. There will be a children’s magic show at 11am and 3pm on Saturdays as well as balloon modelling at 12noon and 4pm on Saturdays. Both events are free of charge. Face Painting will also be available on Saturday December 9th from 4pm-7pm, Sunday December 17th from 10am to 12noon and Friday December 22nd from 12pm to 5pm. Face painting costs 3 euro. Children can also look forward to lots of street entertainment, giant bubbles and a Christmas Fairy walkabout on the market each weekend. The Yulefest Christmas Market runs every weekend until Saturday December 23rd from 11am to 6pm. A special late market will take place on Friday December 22nd, where markets will remain open until 8pm. The Kilkenny local farmers market

will take continue to place on the Parade on Thursdays from 11am-3pm Music Some of the free familyfriendly events taking place this month include music, dancing and family entertainment at the Yulefest Bandstand on The Parade. Taking place every weekend beside the Yulefest Christmas markets, music of all genres will be on offer for all agegroups. This year's festival is jampacked and each weekend, the Yulefest Bandstand will showcase live music performances covering a range of genres and ages. From local community groups, to rising talent and well-established local performers, free to the public performances take place at 12noon, 2pm and 4pm every Saturday and Sunday until December 23rd. Bands featuring on the Yulefest Bandstand include: The New Brass Kings, Code of Behaviour, Burnchurch, The Pinsetters, Oracle Villa, Harmania choir among many more. The Yulefest Bandstand is located on The Parade in Kilkenny city, alongside the Yulefest Christmas Market. A great free day out for all the family. Visitors to Yulefest will also have the opportunity to take part in a musical workshop with acclaimed drummer Jeremy Hickey of R.S.A.G. This Rhythm Makers event will give participants an opportunity to enjoy a fun, relaxing and creatively stimulating drumming workshop. Taking

on The Parade to play in an interactive setting. Bottle-feed lambs or goats and cuddle chicks and baby rabbits, as well as learning about the Irish heritage of farming. The farm will be open from 12-4pm every Sunday in December. Fireworks Display over the River Nore A free fireworks display will take place over the River Nore on Friday December 22nd at 8.15pm just after the Yulefest Christmas markets close. The fireworks can be viewed from around the city. Younger Children can enjoy some fairground rides on the canal square on Thursday 21st and Friday 22nd December - just as school finishes for Christmas!

place every Saturday until December 23rd, on the Parade in Kilkenny city, these workshops will be broken into three age categories allowing all ages to find their space. 12 noon is for 5-7 year olds, 1pm caters for 8-12 year olds and 2pm is for adults. Music on the Yulefest Bandstand is free. Workshops cost €3 + booking fee and must be booked in advance. Santa Truck The Santa Truck in aid of LauraLynn Children’s Hospice will be parked up on The Parade in Kilkenny City on December 9th from 5-7pm. The event is free but donations are greatly appreciated. All funds raised on the evening will go directly to LauraLynn Children’s Hospice to support

children with life-limiting conditions.

December 14th at 7pm. The cost is €3 + booking fee.

Jingle Bell Rockout with Music Generation Kilkenny A free open-air concert takes place on Sunday 10th December at 12 noon on the Yulefest Bandstand on The Parade. Young musicians from the Creative Music Space will showcase their singing, guitar, and drumming skills with some familiar Christmas tunes at the Yulefest Bandstand on the parade. Everyone is welcome to come along and support Kilkenny’s rising young stars performing Christmas classics.

Mrs Claus Family Farm In conjunction with Nore Valley, families are invited to Mrs Claus’ family farm

Yulefest Movie Night A Muppets Christmas Carol will air on a big outdoor screen on Canal Square on Thursday

Santa Santa will be making appearances and hosting festive activities throughout the county during the month of December. Find out more on each event at www.yulefestkilkenny.ie

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

Cinema

Tom Casey reminisces with Mark Hackett about all the great basketball games held at the Waterbarrack

The history and s of TheButts setfo screeninKilkenn

Two of the greats who contributed time and energy to the youth of The Butts. Con Downey and Mike Kelly

AH MEMORIES.. Pictured outside the Fr McGrath Centre are Stephen Murphy, John Brennan and Mike Kelly. Sound operator is Tom Casey

Meeting at the Community Centre were from left : Martina Ralph, Joe Hennessy ( Hurling) Jimmy Neary (Handball) , John Brennan ( soccer) and Anthony Greene ( handball).

By Ger Cody A new film documentary ‘The History and stories of The Butts’ is about to be screened at the ICM cinema in Kilkenny. In olden times this place was the "Middle of Kilkenny" because all the old roadways led straight to it. It was in this square that the military practised archery. It was from the word "targets" or "butts" that it got its name. The Kilkenny Observer caught up with project leader Gillian Grattan, Kay and John Brennan, Paddy Neary, Anthony Green, Siobhán O’Brien, Mike Kelly and Tom Casey. All involved with the making of the documentary.

A strong community When it comes to finding a phrase or saying to describe something, it is worthwhile taking a look through one of the hundreds of books of Folklore written in the Irish language. Our ancestors had a way of describing situations that leave other nations in the halfpenny place. Take for example the word Meitheal. Meitheal is the Irish word for a work team, gang, or party and denotes the co-operative labour system in Ireland where groups of neighbours help each other in turn with farming work, such as harvesting crops. Meitheal is the Irish expression of

the ancient and universal appliance of cooperation. As we sat together in The Community Hall in The Butts, I thought the word was apt considering our surroundings and its people.

great knowledge and expertise. Paddy explained that he is part of a Kilkenny Saturday walkers group who visit parts of Kilkenny to discuss its history. “The Butts features regularly” added Paddy.

Irish proverb Another old Irish proverb: ‘Is ar scáth a chéile a mhaireann na dáoine’. ‘It is in each other’s shadow that we flourish.’ That proverb, it is fair to say, covers exactly the sentiment that describes The Butts area of Kilkenny to a tee. On Thursday December 14, a screening will take place in the IMC, titled ‘The History and stories of The Butts’ According to John Brennan, the documentary is a history and shines a light on many aspects of The Butts. “We look at a lot of areas including The Arts, Crafts, Culture, Sports and the characters who make the community what it is” said John.

Characters According to Tom Casey, who helped with the technical side of the documentary, the characters past and present are all legends in their own right and listening to their stories gave a great insight into the lives of Butts people.

History of the Butts When it comes to history, there are few more knowledgeable than former resident and local historian Paddy Neary who delves into the past with

Sport The Waterbarracks was like a mini sports complex. Whether it was swimming in the Breagagh, scoring aces in the handball alley, or playing basketball on the court, the ‘Barracks was the place to be. Mind you, there was a time when it was that busy you had to book your space. There are those of a certain age who will recall some of the best matches in the sport being played at the Waterbarracks and Kilkenny teams were well respected in the sport all over Ireland. There are many folk strolling the

streets of Kilkenny today who can recall those great days. One such man is Seamus Ryan from Francis Terrace who wore the Robert Emmets jersey. A few years ago, Seamus recalled one match in particular when Emmets were playing in the final. Seamus takes up the story. “I remember one day we were playing a final against Tralee ESB. It was a tense match and it was score for score. There was literally two or three minute to go with a couple of points separating the teams. The bells at close by St Canice’s church rang at six o’clock. With that, the referee blew the whistle for time out. Both teams took the cue and stopped playing to say The Angelus. On completion of reciting The Angelus, the ref blew the whistle and the match resumed.” As Ripley would say. “Believe it or not! A question of sport A master of the handball alley, Anthony Green then posed a question. “What community in Kilkenny boasts the most All Ireland titles? One obvious answer would be Bennettsbridge with their haul of forty-seven All Ireland medals.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

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Cinema

stories or big ny

The old and the new: Soccer teams from the past and current soccer players gathered for the Con Downey memorial match held at the Waterbarracks Kilkenny

The Bingo ladies at The Butts hall: Breda Slevin, Martina Ralph, Betty Brennan, Josephine Woods and Patty Power

Artist Fiona Quigley displays her wares at The Castle Walk as the film crew interview her for the Documentary ‘The History and stories of The Butts’

Kilkenny historian Paddy Neary with John Brennan

local history has been captured by the participants who picked up film making skills as part of the workshops.” continued the Thomastown based arts facilitator. Gillian was particularly complimentary to Kevin Shore for provided the stunning drone footage.

However, the former great handball player corrects. “You would have to travel a long way to top the medal haul accumulated by the Butts Community in Kilkenny city. Admittedly, we are comparing chalk and cheese. The Bennettsbridge tally is in hurling while The Butts trophy case includes a variety of sports such as, Handball, Basketball, Soccer, Snooker, Billiards and darts” added Mr Greene. Even more incredibly, one man is responsible for what can only be described as a mountain of trophies. That man is Michael ‘Ducksie’ Walsh Mark Hackett who arrived in the Butts in 1980 and got involved in basketball said that making this documentary has given him great enjoyment. Tutor impressed “A great pleasure” is how Gillian Grattan, the film making tutor and script supervisor on the project described her time working with The Butts team. “The amount of footage they have gathered during this period is impressive to say the least”, said Gillian. “A huge archive of

Project coordinator Gillian Grattan who described working on the film documentary as “A great pleasure”.

A strong Arts scene One man who has worked in the Arts all his life and was responsible for setting up such groups as Dreamstuff and Young Irish Film Makers, as well as performing in shows with an array of groups is Mike Kelly. Mike was happy to speak about the many people who contributed to the Arts scene. KCETB Funding Siobhán O’Brien from Kilkenny and Carlow Education and Training Board (KCETB) said it was most enjoyable working with the Butts Community on the project, which she said she found invigorating and exciting. If you want to know about the Butts, you could of course head for the library or Rothe House and peruse many files and articles. Or you could save a lot of energy and read the poem printed on this page. And though the author is unknown, I think he/she hit the nail on the proverbial head. Music used in the documentary is from the late Michael ‘Mog’ O’Grady, with kind permission of his wife Prionnsiosa. Funding for the project was by Kilkenny ETB The documentary ‘The History and stories of The Butts’ will be screened at the IMC Cinema Kilkenny on December 14 at 6.30p.m

The Butts

We’re from part of the town knows as the Butts They say to live here you got to be nuts That’s always said from people afar Sure they don’t know us or know who we are We’re caring we’re passionate yes some of us loud We know we’re great people and all of us proud We’re sports men and women and we’re from the Butts Put us out on the playing fields and we’ll show you guts Like all great places there are one or two flaws But they won’t deter us or prevent our cause Most of the time we try to achieve To set good examples for our youth to believe

Siobhán O’Brien from CKETB

A lot of the stories about us are wrong Articles in papers that didn’t belong Negative stories with a negative view It’s really annoying when most are untrue Some amazing families came from this place We still hear the surnames or see that face The Ramsbottoms, the Falseys, the Cliffords, the Doyles The Dunphys, the Clowrys, the Rowes and the Boyles The Murphys, the Phelans I could go on, the Dewberrys, the Hayes Quigleys and Long Singers and dancers some with degrees Boys in bellbottoms and girls flashing knees We’re creative we’re talented and we’re not ones to boast To the people of the Butts it’s to you that we toast As kids we were described as cheeky or pups But now with all Ireland medals or McCalmont cups There is nothing we can’t do when we stand side by side Because we’re from the Butts and it fills us with pride So if you’re from the Butts then let it be known And remember our motto LOOK AFTER YOUR OWN Author unknown

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

Yulefest

Happy Participants in the Wreath Making Workshop

Yulefest in Ballyragget Ballyragget Yulefest got underway last weekend. On Friday evening, florist Lynda Jackman from Petals’N Blooms Thomastown, held a Wreath Making Workshop in the Community Hall. This two hour workshop resulted in some fabulous creations on the night and the Christmas themed refreshments from Mary’s Kitchen were enjoyed. On Saturday our annual Christmas market took place in the Community Hall with over 15 stalls selling local produce, art, crafts, and woollen goods. Lots of support from the community was seen with the crowds that attended throughout the afternoon. On Saturday evening the village was bustling with excite-

The Magic of Christmas

Ballyragget Crib

Santa with some friends

ment as news spread that Santa would visit the Square. Residents of the Square - the Holland family- were on hand to light up the Christmas lights just before the arrival of Santa Claus. Young and old were delighted to see the special visitor arriving on a pony and sleigh with the help from the Traffic Corps from Kilkenny and Castlecomer ensuring his safe arrival. Santa spent some time giving everyone a high five and a quick word before taking some photographs with the children. Ballyragget Yulefest will continue throughout the month of December with a Remembrance concert taking place in St Patricks Church Ballyragget on Friday 8th at 7pm.

There is also the wonderful Grange Wonderland for people to visit from 6pm to 9pm each weekend evening and can be opened by appointment. Proceeds from this years Grange Wonderland is Motor Neurone Ireland. For more information contact Pat Farrell 0872814661. Darts for turkeys and hams will take place in An Chearnog throughout December. Names to be in for 10 pm each night. Contact Joe Kelly 0872942437. Christmas Mass times for Ballyragget Parish are as follows: Christmas Eve 6.30pm Ballyouskill 9pm Ballyragget Christmas Day 10.30 am Ballyragget.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

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5 years in business Staff Leah, Shona, Craig, Michael

Photos: Amanda Burke Natural Health Store, Market Cross celebrated 5 years in business on FriCommunity radio day 1st interviewing spot prize December. winner Bill McGee And what a fantastic birthday party we had. Thank you to everyone who came in to say hello, it was lovely to see you on the day. We would not be here without your support. Thanks to Mick Cummins and Caomh Breen Allen from Community Radio Kilkenny who were in the store on the day with their Outdoor Broadcast. Sarah Brereton from Naturalife gave us her top tips on how to look and feel good for Christmas. Digestive support with Udo’s Choice Digestive Enzymes was top of her list to help relieve bloating and digestive discomfort. If you are out doing some partying, she reminded us not to forget to take some Milk Thistle to support your liver. And if you are struggling to get into that little black dress then New Nordic Fat Burner could help you get rid of that last few pounds! Conor from Spoon-ful Botanical was in store with his hand-made herb, spice, and fermented fruits mixture with renowned properCraig from Natural ties to support joint Health, Lesley Cleere health. We had lots Market Cross Centre of giveaways and dis-

A fantastic day at Natural Health Store

Spot prize winner Bill mcGee with his Mum and Jayne Grimes of Spoonful Botanical

Manager and Shona from Natural Health

Spot Prize Winner Maria O'Shea

Conor and Jayne Grimes of Spoonful Botanical

counts on the day. We thought with Christmas just around the corner we would give you some gift ideas. Why not give the gift of beautiful skin with a natural skin care gift set. Choose from Holos, Trilogy, Kinvara, Weleda or Friendly Soaps, they’re great value too. Or for the foodies we have some gorgeous hampers that are ready to go, including Gluten Free, Vegan, No Added Sugar, or a Luxury food hamper. We have tea, coffee, or chocolate hampers. We can create the perfect hamper for you, all you have to do is choose the products and we turn them into a beautiful per-

Spot Prize Winner Mary Kavanagh

sonalised gift for your loved one. For the person who is interested in spirituality and self-exploration we have beautifully illustrated

oracle cards. We have salt lamps and crystals, dragons, wiccan ornaments, Buddha’s, and dreamcatchers. To fill your home with the beautiful aromas of Christmas you can choose from our selection of essential oil gift packs and oil burners. Or a beautiful incense hamper. If you can’t decide what to get that one person then a Gift Voucher is always a good idea. We have great value with our December offers Trilwith 20% off Tril ogy (gift sets not included), Better You Magnesium Oil Range, Melissa Dream and lots more offers in store and online. Call in to see us at Market Cross where you will be welcomed by one of our amazing team members, Craig, Shóna, Leah, and Michael. You will be in safe and friendly hands. Or you can shop online at www.naturalhealthstore.ie Natural Health Store, Feel Good on The Inside

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

Luke Parsons Hair Salon and Wig Specialist Wishing our clients a very Merry Christmas individual client. They are stockists of: • Nioxin • Olaplex • Kemon Scalp and Hair Loss • Moroccan Oil • Matrix

Friary Street resident Joseph O’Carroll (extreme right, back row) in a production of ‘The Quaker Girl’; produced by St Marys. Choral Society at Stallard theatre in 1956. Also in the photo: (Back) Peter Farrelly, Cora Broderick, William Brennan, Siobhán Dowling, and Marie O’Neill. (photo with thanks to Peter Farrelly’s book ‘600years of Theatre in Kilkenny’)

As Luke Parsons Hair Salon gets ready for its 5th Christmas on Friary Street, Luke and his talented team would like to wish all of their clients a very Happy Christmas! They would like to thank all of the amazing people that have come through their doors and supported them. Their salon has grown from strength to strength, and they pride themselves on quality work in a relaxed and welcoming environment, an ap-

pointment dedicated to you. Luke Parsons Hair Salon is a place that welcomes all walks of life to enjoy high end quality products used by their team of highly skilled cutting specialists and colour experts. Luke is well known for his easy to wear cuts. He is a very visual stylist and is passionate about sculpting the hair to suit each

Luke Parsons Hair Salon is also excited to have added a wig specialist service to the business in recent years! They have a newly renovated wig and scalp specialist area upstairs, offering their clients a private space. They are passionate about helping their clients find the perfect hairpiece in a confidential and relaxed environment. They have solutions to suit clients with mild thinning, to more extensive hair loss. They are delighted to be registered with the HSE/ Medical Card to ensure the grants that are available are accessible to their clients. They also offer a bespoke wig fitting service after hours, where their high end hairpieces are styled by Luke to suit each client.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

LEFT: Soldiers and officials of Kilkenny Corporation at the graveside of Fr. Albert Bibby in Rochestown, Co Cork. Fr. Bibby’s remains were repatriated to Ireland in 1958. Thousands turned out at Shannon Airport to pay their respects. Fr. Bibby ministered to many of the 1916 rebels who were executed. Left to right: Milo Butler, Paddy Gleeson, Paddy Donnelly, (Mace bearer) Seamus Monahan, Paddy Ward, Mick McGuinness, (Mayor) John Holohan, Joe Stapleton (Sword bearer) William Murphy,Thomas Delaney. At rear PJ Crotty.

Capuchin friars have a long history in Kilkenny With thanks to the Saturday walkers group for this information The first recorded reference to the Friars in Kilkenny is 1643, when they were granted accommodation in St John’s Abbey by the Corporation. In 1678 they had a chapel and convent in St John’s Abbey, the community consisted of three. In 1682 Fr. James Tobin procured a plot of “waste ground on the South side of Walkin Street within the City Walls” from the Duke and Duchess of Ormonde on which he built a Poor House. In his will, he mentions of build-

ing a stone house covered with slate containing sixty foot in length, designing the same for the reception of “twelve poor distressed men and women, natives of this city, wherein I desire my own relations to be preferred.” Having served its purpose for almost 200 hundred years, it was taken down in 1897, the site been handed over to the Capuchins for the erection of a college. It is recorded in 1756, the friars had a convent in Walkin Street close to the Poor House. Their very small chapel stood to the rear of the poor house and became known as the Poor

House Chapel. Fr. Tobin who died in 1699/1700, had family connections with Lyrath. Tradition says one of the friars acting as a book vendor kept a stand in the Tholsel and he received the sick calls during the day. When evening came, he deposited his bookstall in the poor house and tended to his sick calls. Two of the friars associated with the poor house are interred in the old St John’s graveyard. One was Fr. Martin St John who died in 1780 aged 93 years, and Fr. McDonnell who died in 1782 aged 66 years. Fr. Forrestall, born at Bennetsbridge in 1758, ordained in

1784, served in St Canice’s from 1785 to 1799. He then served in Callan until 1820 then came to live in Kilkenny where he died in 1829 and interred in the old St John’s Graveyard. He was the last Franciscan in Kilkenny. Hogan viewed the headstones in the 1850’s, but writing in 1884 stated they were not to be found. These headstones are to be seen to day along with more modern markings at the foot of the graves. The next guardians were Fr. Thomas Murphy and Fr. William Berry who were educated on the continent. According to the customs of the times they brewed their own ale and baked their own bread. Fr. Murphy died in June 1817, aged 73 years. Fr. Berry died in October 1822 aged 80 years. Both these friars are interred in the present Friary chapel. Mention is made in 1826 of Fr. John Mulligan as living in the Community and was the next guardian who in 1848 undertook the building of a new chapel. No one knows where he obtained the money for the project as it was built during the Famine. It was he who was responsible for the ringing of the bells in 1829 announcing Catholic Emancipation. The bells were named O’Connell

in honour of the Liberator and Sheil, a local Catholic. Fr. Mulligan had a cross erected on the highest gable of the chapel which gave much offence to non-Catholics. One Sunday in the 1840s he had the high altar decorated with green boughs, flowers and candles. As 12 o’clock approached, four men carried a local merchant Tom Prince in an arm chair to the Altar where he read his recantation and was received into the church. Tom Prince saved a man’s life in the 1798 rebellion, perhaps it was he who paid for the building of the chapel. Fr. Mulligan died in 1853 after which there was no representative of the Order until 1855 when Fr. Edward Tommins was appointed guardian, he was the first friar to wear the Order’s habit in public since the Reformation. Many improvements to the Friary took place during his time, the section parallel with Friary Street was completed in 1874. Fr. Tommins died in 1889 and is interred in the friary chapel. The pillars, cornices and pediments surrounding the high Altar were taken from the old St Mary’s known as the Old Cathedral adjacent to Wellington place. Another capuchin of note

was Fr. Theobald Matthew, the Apostle of Temperance. He joined the Kilkenny community soon after his ordination in 1814 and transferred to Cork in 1816. Fr. Albert Bibby regarded as a Kilkenny native, was born in Bagenalstown (1877), came to live with his family in High Street, where they a had a drapery business. After his education at the local C.B.S. he joined the Capuchins, ordained a priest 1902, came to live in Kilkenny in 1904 before moving to Dublin, became very involved with the Republican movement in 1916. The Order arose in 1528 when Matteo da Basscio, a Franciscan friar, sought to return to a more primitive way of life of solitude and penance St. Francis had envisaged. His superiors were not in agreement, so Friar Matteo and his followers were forced to flee and were given refuge by a group of monks known as the Camaldolese. In gratitude they adopted the hood (cappuccio) worn by that order, and the practice of wearing a beard which was the mark of a hermit in Italy. In 1529 they had four houses and held their first chapter at which their particular rules were drawn up. Simplicity, poverty, austerity the simple things of life as near to St Francis’ ideals. They were to wear the brown habit with the distinctive pointed hood, girdled by the woollen cord with the three knots. The cappuccino coffee is named after the shade of brown used for their habit.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

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The Friary Street Ambush: 1921 ON February 21st, 1921, three man lost their lives in what has become known as ‘The Friary Street Ambush’. Two of those were members of the local IRA. The plaque which is positioned at the junction of Pennyfeather lane and Friary Street reads as follows. ‘At this spot, Capt. Thomas Hennessy and Michael Dermody (NCO), two brave soldiers of The Irish Republican army, gave their lives ithe cause of Irish Freedom on February 21st 1921, during the War of Independence. To perpetuate their memories, this plaque was erected by the members of the 1st Battalion Kilkenny Brigade I.R.A.’

Members of The First Battalion of the Kilkenny Brigade re-enactment group pictured at Thomas Dullard’s grave in St Patrick’s graveyard. (jbs photos)

INNOCENT PASSER BY The third person to die was a local Council worker called Thomas Dullard, who was an innocent bystander. 100 YEARS LATER One hundred years to the day, in 2021, The First Battalion of the Kilkenny Brigade re-enactment group, laid wreaths to remember all three who died. Having first called to St Patricks graveyard, where they laid a wreath on Local historian Commandant Larry Scallan (retired) spoke at the grave of Thomas Dullthe spot where two members ard, the small group then of the Kilkenny IRA lost their travelled to Friary Street, lives. Close by Thomas Dullard where those who lost their was also shot and killed. (jbs lives were remembered. Fr Dan photos) Carroll said a prayer at the site, and following a few words from Commandant Larry Scallan, a minutes silence was held.

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Christmas at The Cookie Co-op The Cookie Co-op are excited to be trading for their first Christmas season at their premises at Unit 2, Regency Court on Friary Street. Since July, The Cookie Co-op front-of-house café has been

serving on-the-go breakfast and lunch options, awardwinning Bell Lane Coffee and other beverages, as well as a wide selection of their ever-popular sweet treats. Now, the team are looking

forward to embracing the buzz of Christmas as they add signature hot chocolates and seasonal treats to their offerings for their loyal customers. Visitors to the shop can

enjoy some Christmas shopping while browsing in The Cookie Co-op MiniMarket area. The Mini-Market showcases products from local artists, food producers and craftspeople, providing customers with a variety of unique, handcrafted gift options to choose from. Gifting loved ones who live elsewhere in Ireland with the tasty treats from The Cookie Co-op is also possible using DPD next-day delivery. Their Christmas treat boxes are the perfect gift to send for families to share, and the team will even add a gift note for your Christmas wishes to be included too. Dietary requirements are catered for with gluten-free and vegan boxes also available. The Cookie Co-op treats are always a firm favourite at local Christmas Markets; you can find the team trading every weekend in December from their festive wooden cabin on the Parade as part of YuleFest and also on Sundays at Mountain View Christmas Markets. Brian and all of the team are looking forward to welcoming you through the doors of The Cookie Co-op during December to share some

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

Christmas chats and cheer together. They would like to wish all of their customers a

heartfelt Happy Christmas, and a big thank you for all of the support during 2023!

Social Media: @the_cookie_co_op Website: www.thecookiecoop.ie Get in touch: info@thecookiecoop.ie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

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Donal O’Brien as a very young Dame in the 1964 pantomime ‘Puss in Boots’ at The Friary Hall. Donal would go on to play the role of Dame for over forty years.

Kitty Drohan a woman of vision and vitality

ment. And while it may not have been synonymous with comfort, it had that one ingredient that mattered. Soul.

Maunsell Drohan in pensive mood.

Mikey Martin and Kitty Drohan at the Kilkenny theatre in 1953. Mikey was a well known and respected tenor.

BY GER CODY MANY people reading this will be of the opinion that the history of theatre in Kilkenny rests

within the walls of such venues as The Set, Cleeres, The Watergate and The Hole in the Wall. Not so. There were three or four others. For today, we will focus

The final scene from ‘City of Kings’ based on the life of St Martin de Porres, presented at The Friary Hall in 1959 by St Francis Players. Photo: William Hayes.

on The Friary Hall, which was the home to Musicals, Theatre, Tops of The Town, Feis Ceoil and a myriad of other forms of entertain-

A DEDICATED CREW KEPT THEATRE ALIVE There are many reasons why musical theatre is so strong in Kilkenny. Equally, there are many people to whom our thanks should go to for carrying the musical baton down through the years. We remember Fr Con Sherin, St Mary’s choral society, those who performed on an amateur basis year in year out, the front of house and backstage crew who volunteered, and many more. In recent years the local Kilkenny Musical Society have produced some wonderful shows. How many of the current members know about the people who founded the society and those who ensured its survival? Not many I would suggest. That, however is life. Time and tide etc. Time and Tide.

BLOOD SWEAT AND TEARS There was one couple who put body and soul into local musicals. Blood sweat and tears would probably be closer to the truth. Kitty and Maunsell Drohan must take a special place for their unselfish promotion and dedication to music in general and the local musical society in particular. Kitty, along with Donal O Brien founded the society in 1974, and the rest as they say is history. While Kitty was almost the resident director of shows staged at the Friary Hall from 1974, Maunsell took charge of all things technical. There were times when you would be forgiven for thinking Maunsell had left the room as he was so quiet. ‘A man with a tam’ who put the head down and got on with the work. Considering the very basic equipment he had, it was nothing short of miraculous to see what he produced. I know little of the man, but that he was intelligent and well-read was never in doubt.

A sort of a Google before it was invented. He lit shows (and his beloved pipe) to a quality that was brilliant. When, as often happened, things broke down, Maunsell, with no fuss tied a thing to a yoke and saved the day. A MacGyver type. NO SHORTAGE OF ENERGY Kitty was the go to theatre person in Kilkenny. Space does not allow to tell of her work with other societies, schools and a hundred and one different groups. She gave and then gave some more. When you thought her tank was empty she went up another gear. Suffice to say that they both left a wonderful mark on musical theatre in the city. Many people walked various stages in this County and beyond thanks to the energy, vitality and vision of Kitty Drohan, aided by Maunsell. Whenever a musical was staged at The Friary Hall, it was the highlight of the theatrical year.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

News

Brick by brick: Walkin’s Gate A narrow street with a rich history, Friary Street (formerly Walkin Street) is located west of High Street. Many people have walked this street for prayer, food, or shopping over the years, and continue to do so. Once harbouring its own gatehouse to the medieval walled city, Friary Street plays an important part in Kilkenny’s past. The Anglo Normans constructed Kilkenny's city walls in the thirteenth century. They served as both a barrier of defence for the colonists inside and a representation of control over the local Irish population with stone 2m thick and 8m high. The town walls contained seven gatehouses to control entry into Kilkenny - Irishtown Gate, Walkin's Gate, Black Freren Gate, St Patrick's Gate, St James' Gate, Bridge Gate and Castle Gate. There were nine circular watch towers on these walls, with Talbot’s Tower on New Street being the only complete surviving tower to date. The building of the city walls in the thirteenth century was the biggest municipal undertaking in Kilkenny's history. At the time, the walls were the longest in Ireland, spanning more than two miles. Today, however, only 25% of the city walls are visible above ground; the remainder are still hidden from view beneath our feet. Friary Street was originally

one of the main access roads into the medieval walled city. The ease with which a wall could be reached from within was another important consideration for those who defended it. One of the primary entrances to the city was once located on Friary Street. Part of the pomerium - the path behind the walls that supplies could be transported along and from where the defenders could reach the towers - used to run between Friary Street and James' Street. Although there are no physical remnants left, historical accounts suggest that there was at least one tower with an upper story. A deed for a home for Alice Kyteler’s son, William Outlaw, close to Walkelin's Bar around 1305 has the first recorded mention of a gate. In the 1400s,

funds were allocated to build an expansion of the city walls. The Sovereign John Archer had it ‘new made and repaired’ together with other gates in 1500. Walkin’s Gate was a crucial gate as it was located on the Cork Road that led into the city. In 1650, Oliver Cromwell and his forces broke through the defences. From then on, Kilkenny enjoyed a relatively peaceful period throughout the 1700s. As the walls were no longer needed, they began to deteriorate. A map from 1758 shows the gate still standing, but by 1788, it appears to have been destroyed based on the lease of a nearby property. In the middle of the 19th century, the gate's foundations could still be seen on one side. Today, not a brick is to be seen of Walkin’s Gate.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

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Residents and shops in Friary Street about 1950 In 2007, a St Rioch’s community Group published a book commemorating St Rioch’s graveyard. The booklet contained the following article on residents and shops on Friary Street which makes for interesting reading. THERE have been many changes in Friary Street since 1950. It was originally called Lower Walkin Street before being changed to Friary Street. A number of houses were demolished to make Friary Street car park and in more recent years apartments and houses have been built on the site of the old car park. The following gives the reader some idea of the changes that have taken place. Beginning at the junction of High Street and Friary Street on the left coming from High Street we find Murphy’s Woollen store, which extends up Friary Street. A curtain shop and Fennelly’s Fish shop occupied the next two premises. These were built by Tommy Grace who was the owner of the present Book Centre, in the 1970’s. The Halifax bank has now replaced the ESB premises, which in turn replaced Leahy’s tea rooms. Paddy Phelan’s coal yard

and hackney business was replaced by Grahams shoe shop and the Friary Hall. Paddy was an outstanding left half back on the Kilkenny Senior team for many years and was on the team of the century. Slaters poultry and fish shop was a well-known business and during the war years there was a great business in the export of rabbits to England. The sale of rabbits to Slaters was a great source of income for country men. Slaters also had a yard at the opposite side the street for killing and skinning rabbits and plucking poultry. John Slater was mayor of Kilkenny in 1917 and 1918. He died in 1945. The large building past The Friary was used as a dispensary. Doctors White, Mitchell and Healy were well known doctors working there. There was a Relief office at the back of the building to assist people who had fallen on hard

times. The row of houses leading to Pennyfeather lane was known as Walkin street Sconce. Doctor Dan Divilly lived there for many years. Thomas Hennessy and family lived in the building next to the dispensary and the house was known as ‘the long hall’. The next three houses were occupied by Coyle’s, McDonalds and Williams. Coyle’s had been printers in Kilkenny for many years. The Gargan family have been stone craftsmen and monumental sculptors for many generations and still have a very successful business. Born in Walkin Street, Matt Gargan was one of the most outstanding hurlers Kilkenny produced and played with the famous Kilkenny team of the 1904 -1913 period, when they won no less than seven All-Ireland titles. Five of his sons played hurling, the most notable being Jack who was on the Kilkenny

team that won the 1939 All Ireland final. The following three house were occupied by Lynch’s, Hogan’s and Buggy’s. Dick Buggy was chauffeur to Bishop Collier. Ned Buggy has been a very prominent member of Kilkenny GAA for many years. Joe Carroll, another resident on this side was well known in the theatre and was a local historian. He published ‘A guide to Kilkenny’ which still serves as a reference book. He was also manager of the bottling stores further up Walkin street. In recent years Mullins butcher shop moved to this side of the street from across the road. Ray Cody lived here since the 1960’s farther up the street. There is a very well-known popular chip shop called ‘Breda’s Chipper.’ The Morrissey family have had a very successful business premises at the corner of Friary Street and New street for many years. The family had a bakery for some years and were involved in politics. Moving to the right hand side of the street (from High street up Friary street) Liptons (later the L&N supermarket) and Lenehans had a shop on the corner. Pauls now occupy the

premises. The Vogue clothes shop was owned by Thomas Murphy from the Woolen Hall is now part of Pauls premises. Next was Joe Egan’s Delph shop. As well as selling delph, he would hire out delph for large social functions and gatherings such as threshing. Kenna’s butcher shop, opened in 1932, now occupy Egans shop and have a very successful business. Andrew Ryan’s public house was next and Billy Burke had a private house next door. Rafter Dempsey’s public house had been Tynan’s bar and grocery. The premises that had been demolished to make the Friary street car park include O’Keeffe’s hardware, Jimmy Allen plumbers and Joe Burke blacksmith. Other houses were occupied by Frank Flood, Paddy Lysaght, Jimmy Dunne and Jenny Lee. Following those were two alms houses organised by the Capuchin Friars. The Flood-Morrissey family lived in the corner house, adjoining Garden Row and dealt in antiques. The Lawlor family lived at the opposite corner of Garden Row. Mr Lawlor was the manager of The Regent Cinema. Occupants further up the

street were Boyles and Tom, a member of that family was secretary of Kilkenny County Council and author of its history. Other residents were Hennessy’s, Doyle’s (Mrs. Doyle was a piano teacher) Milo Butler, who was a builder and local councillor, Kiely’s and Armstrongs. A hairdressers now occupies the premises that previously housed Mullins Butchers. Ritchie Moore ran a very successful fuel yard. Jack Moore had been a second hand dealer for many years. Mullins butchers used the abattoir next door to the fuel yard. The Ryan family had a very successful bakery here for many years, with their bread and blas having a very good reputation. Tom Ryan succeeded his father Jack and they also ran a sweet shop here. Tom’s son Paddy was a very successful manager of the L&N and later became manager of The Market Cross shopping centre. The Devane family lived next door. The large premises at the corner of Friary Street and Parnell street is owned by the Doherty family, they have been here for generations. The public house was previously owned by Hacketts.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

James Stephens GAA Club Reunion

Night of Nostalgia at James Stephens GAA Club BY NICKEY BRENNAN

To Mark his 70 th Birthday Aodan O Ruairc Chairman Makes Presentation To Nicky Brennan

James Stephens Junior County Champions 2000

There was a big attendance at the James Stephens GAA Club Reunion function on Sat. 2nd Dec. at their Larchfield Club House where a number of Hurling, Gaelic Football and Camogie teams were honoured for their county championship victories over a number of years. Guests of honour on the night were Phil ‘Fan’ Larkin the legendary James Stephens and Kilkenny hurler along with Sean Boylan, a former Manager of the Meath Senior Footballers and the Irish International Rules side. Club Chairman Aodán Ó Ruairc welcomed all present and he paid

James Stephens Various Football teams

tribute to the successful team being honoured. He especially mentioned a number of former players who had sadly died since those memorable days. Among them were Billy Walton, Adrian Harkin, Órla Lawlor and Laura English and he welcomed their family representatives to the event. The teams being honoured included: • The Junior Hurling champions of 2000 led by their captain Fran Whelan who defeated Piltown in the County Final. • The Under 21A Hurling champions of 2000 led by their captain Paddy O’Brien who defeated Dunnamaggin in the County Final. • The Under 21A Hurling champions of 2002 led by their captain Gary Whelan who defeated Mullinavat in the County Final.

At The Reunion In James Stephens Sean Boylan, Brian Cody, Joe Hennessey, Val Malone And Joe Cullen

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James Stephens GAA Club Reunion Fan Larkin Makes Presentation To Catherine Neary to Honor her work as President of Camogie Assosiation

James Stephens Junior Camogie Team Winners of The 2002 Camogie Championship with Catherine Neary Manager

• The Junior Camogie champions of 2002 led by their captain Maggie Moran who defeated Clara in the County Final. • A number of successful Gaelic Football teams were also honoured – Senior in 1991, 1993, 1995, 1996, 2003 & 2008 plus Intermediate in 2007. A presentation was made to the former President of the Camogie Association Catherine Neary, who has a long association with the James Stephens club. Returning to the club for this special evening was Jim Mulvin. Jim is now residing in Dublin and during his time living and working in Kilkenny he played a prominent role in the development of Gaelic Football in the club. In fact, many of the county football titles successes being remembered on the night saw Jim as Team Manager. The club made a special presentation to Jim on the evening to mark his huge input to the club’s footballing fortunes. Sean Boylan, the legendary former Manager of the Meath Senior Footballers and the Irish International Rules side was a special guest on the night. Both Sean and Jim Mulvin joined Nickey Brennan from Community Radio Kilkenny City to chat about their experiences in their respective managerial roles. Jim recalled many games with James Stephens teams and players and this drew a great response from the large attendance. Sean Boylan, a hurling man at heart, outlined his early involvement with the Meath senior footballers and referenced some of the great players from that era. He also spoke about his experience managing the Irish International Rules team in the two series in Ireland and Australia. Richie Manogue was MC on the evening.

James Stephens Under 21 County Champions 2000

Sean Boylan Presents Jim Mulvin with a Momento For His Dedication To Football in The James Stephens Club

To Mark his Work for Football in the Club Aodan O Ruairc Presents Jim Mulvin [Mr Football] With His Momento

James Stephens Under 21County Champions 2002

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Motors

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Food & Drink

Breaking out the bubbly for

Christmas

A festive guide to the various sparkling wines When it’s time to celebrate Christmas or the New Year, or indeed any special occasion – nothing beats a bottle of bubbly. While even amateur champagne afficionados understand that to truly earn the moniker of ‘champs’, the sparkling wine must hail from the Champagne region of France, that body of common knowledge gets a little fuzzier when you begin asking how champagne compares to cava and prosecco, let alone cap classique or espumante. Lucky for you, we’re breaking down some of the world’s most popular regional bubbly wines. Champagne Made in: The Champagne region of France. Primary grapes used: pinot noir, pinot meunier and chardonnay. The Kleenex of sparkling wine, so to speak, champagne is so closely tied to the identity of the entire category that we use the word to refer to products that aren’t necessarily true champagne. Authentic champagne isn’t just made from the three specific grape varietals grown within France’s champagne region; it also must be prepared in the traditional méthode champenoise, which sees the wine undergo a second fermentation after the addition of sugar and yeast to the bubbly brew. Although we associate champagne with the French for good reason, the product (and entire industry) would never have been made possible without the contributions of the English. It was the English scientist Christopher Merret who pioneered the production techniques that are today known as méthode champenoise, and it was English glassmakers who successfully created the first glass bottles that were strong enough to stand up to the enormous pressures of the contents within. Fun fact: Due to the tendency of bottles to explode at random, champagne was commonly referred to as “the devil’s wine.” Cava Made in: The Catalonia region of Spain. Primary grapes used: macabeo, parellada and xarel-lo. Although cava production is technically identical to the méthode champenoise, that protected term only refers to winemaking activity within Champagne itself. In Spain, where cava is dreamt up

blanc, pinot gris and pinot noir. You’re forgiven if you’re less familiar with Germany’s take on sparkling wine, owing to even the own country’s reliance on Italy, France and Spain for winemaking. As much as 90% of the grapes used in Sekt-making come from those three countries, though in the homegrown all- German iteration of the sparkling wine called Deutscher sekt, the familiar German riesling grape takes center stage. Fun fact: Sekt is so highly pressurized that bottles are rarely ever sold without protective metal cages. Cap classique Made in: South Africa. Primary grapes used: Chardonnay and pinot noir. South African sparkling winemaking closely mirrors that of champagne, but the results of those efforts are quite different. The dramatically warmer winemaking region of South Africa, compared at least to the more temperate zones of Europe’s top spots, makes for exceptionally fruit-forward, candylike sparkling wines.

by winemakers, the methodology is instead called traditionnelle. Like champagne, cava undergoes in-bottle fermentation, though the wine within is stored at lesser pressures. Cava may not have been the first European sparkling wine developed, but cava makers left their mark on the industry just the same with the invention of the gyropalette, a device that automates the removal of fermented yeast from bottles toward the end of the winemaking process. Fun fact: Even though it’s not legally allowed to be called champagne, cava is commonly referred to as champán and champaña across Spain. Prosecco Made in: Nine provinces in Italy, most notably in the Veneto region.

Primary grapes used: glera, though up to 15% volume can come from verdiso, bianchetta trevigiana, perera, glera lunga, chardonnay, pinot bianco, pinot grigio and pinot noir grapes While champagne and cava align quite closely, despite their differing countries of origin, prosecco deviates a bit from the formula. Italy’s chief sparkling wine is created using the Martinotti method, in which fermentation of the grapes takes place in stainless steel tanks instead of glass bottles. This ultimately makes prosecco a less costly sparkling wine to produce than cava and champagne, and makes for lighter, frothier bubbles when corked. A good quality bottle of prosecco will often cost less than half that of a comparable champagne.

Fun fact: All the world loves a deal, making prosecco, and not champagne, the world’s best-selling sparkling wine. Espumante Made in: Throughout Portugal, as well as parts of Argentina. The country that brought us delicious green-tinged vinho verde has its own take on sparkling wine, espumante. Though much of the small country produces sparkling wines, the very best of the best espumantes hail from the winemaking region of DOC Bairrada, to the south of Vinho Verde. Sekt Made in: It’s complicated, but let’s say Germany and parts of Austria. Primary grapes used: riesling, pinot

Sparkling wine Made in: USA. Primary grapes used: Take your pick – chardonnay, pinot noir, pinot meunier, pinot blanc, riesling, muscatel, traminer, chasselas. U.S. sparkling wine may not have a fancy name unto itself a la champagne or prosecco, but the country produces plenty of the stuff just the same. Production generally falls into two groups: expensive champagne rivals hailing from California and the Pacific Northwest made using the méthode champenoise, and inexpensive “mixing” sparkling wines like André and Cook’s that are made via the Charmat method. The jump-off for American quality sparkling wine occurred way back in 1892, when the Korbel brothers (yes, those Korbel brothers) began experimenting with the méthode champenoise after immigrating to California from Bohemia. Fun fact: As U.S. sparkling wine’s reputation ascended, some of France’s top champagne producers invested heavily in California. Moët et Chandon created Domaine Chandon, Louis Roederer set up Roederer Estate, and Taittinger begat Domaine Carneros. Cheers!

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Advertisement Advertisement TV & Streaming

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3. My Life With the Walter Boys

‘I thought, if I would die, I would be proud that my body would be used for someone else’

A survivor of the 1972 Andes Mountain plane crash said the upcoming Netflix film Society Of The Snow brought him back to the horrific ordeal. “I was immersed in that place again,” Dr Roberto Canessa told Today in a recent interview in the US. “I was back [in] the fuselage.” At the time, Canessa was a 19-year-old medical student when the plane that he and his Uruguayan rugby teammates were on crashed as they were heading for a match. Sixteen of the 45 passengers on that doomed aircraft survived, but they had no food and were surrounded by snow. As he detailed in his 2016 book, I Had To Survive: How a Plane Crash in the Andes Inspired My Calling to Save Lives, Canessa and the other survivors re-

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reached civilisation about a week later. “We got in touch with a shepherd,” he told People Magazine back in 2016. “He was generous enough to go and search for help for us, [even though] he didn’t know us and no one believed that we were alive. And, in this way, a very humble person saved the life of my friends.” The survivors were rescued 72 days after the crash. “It’s not how you survive but why you survive,” Canessa told People while reflecting on how he overcame the trauma. “I remembered very vividly my mother and I went to [visit the mother of ] a friend who had died and she was devastated. And my mother told me, ‘If one of my children died, I couldn’t make it through life, I would die of sadness.’ So I had to go back

and tell my mother, ‘Don’t cry anymore, I’m alive.’ So I think that was the driving force for me.” The crash was famously dramatised in the 1993 movie Alive, starring Ethan Hawke. According to Today, the latest retelling of the story was shot on the actual crash site, putting the cast and crew in similar conditions as the survivors. Canessa is now a paediatric cardiologist and has taken part in annual reunions with the other survivors and their families. In the years since the crash, he has drawn lessons from the ordeal. “You shouldn’t wait for your plane to fall to enjoy and be grateful for life,” he said. *Society of the Snow will begin streaming on Netflix on January 4.

Jackie (Nikki Rodriguez) is a teen whose life takes an unexpected turn when she loses her family in a tragic accident. Uprooted from Manhattan, Jackie bnds herself in the rugged landscape of Colorado, under the guardianship of her mother’s best friend Katherine (Sarah Ra\erty), and her husband George (Marc Blucas). Jackie must adapt to life with George and Katherine’s ten children, like the diligent Alex (Ashby Gentry) and the rebellious Cole (Noah LaLonde) while grappling with her loss and her brand new life.

4. Analog Squad

Set in 1999, a man named Pong is on a mission to fulfill his dying father’s last wish. Desperate to make his father proud, Pond (Nopachai Chaiyanam) assembles a make-believe family. He recruits ex-girlfriend Lily (Namfon Kullana Preeyawat) to pose as his wife and mother to their two ‘children’ – Keg, an employee from a pager company, and Bung, the eccentric owner of a video rental shop. But, while they all work to try and create a ‘real’ family, they soon realise they’re a lot more like one than they initially imagined.

5. Leave The World Behind This apocalyptic thriller from Mr Robot creator Sam Esmail features Julia Roberts and Ethan Hawke as Amanda and Clay Sandford, a couple who, along with children Archie (Charlie Evans) and Rose (Farrah Mackenzie), holiday in a lavish home. Their idyllic retreat takes an ominous turn when the night brings unexpected visitors: GH Scott (Mahershala Ali) and his daughter Ruth (Myha’la Herrold). Bringing news of a mysterious cyberattack, the strangers soon thrust the unsuspecting family into a world of uncertainty. The two families are forced to live together while trying to figure out what’s going on outside the house’s four walls...and what’s next.

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Community & GAA Notes

Kilkenny GAA clubs and Community news CLARA CAMOGIE Well done to Clara’s Laoise Nolan who received a nomination for the Club Senior Team of the Year. CLUB LOTTO Lotto Winner! Congrats to Barbara O Keeffe, winner of the Jackpot €6,700. Numbers drawn 9, 12, 27. Thank your for your support.The Christmas Draw will be held on 19th December. Hampers etc as Spot Prizes. ABBEYFEALE Scoil Mháthair Dé will perform their Christmas Cantata, “Nativity Story” in the Church of the Assumption on Thursday 14th December at 7.00 p.m. All Welcome. O’ LOUGHLIN GAELS CLUB LOTTO There was no winner of club lotto dated November 28th. Numbers Drawn were 3, 9, 11, 26 Bonus 5. Play again now at www.oloughlingaels.com/lotto. Please continue to support our club lotto, it helps our teams Promotors Draw:1. Imelda Kelly C/o Dan O’Driscoll. 2. Liz C/o Ml Harding. 3. Patti O’Neill C/o E Maher. 4. Eamonn Martin C/o N Loy. 5. David Goulding C/o Dan O’Driscoll. 6. Fr. Dan Carroll C/o H Mahon. 7. T and Robbie C/o P Greene. 8. S Hogan C/o Online. 9. Anthea Hogan C/o Online. 10. Gemma Smith C/o online. Thank you for your continued support LEINSTER CLUB CHAMPIONS After a very tentative first half at the end of which the Gaels led by two points, the second half produced some scintillating scores from both teams as they battled hard to come on top. Come out on top is exactly what the Gaels did, showing the level of resilience required to become champions. Na Fianna worked hard to level matters early in the second half and though the Games nudged ahead again, Na Fianna struck the net to go ahead by two and force a response from the St John’s men which they duly got. Conor Heary stepped up to the plate scoring a massive return point within seconds signalling the teams intent. Na Fianna brought the kitchen sink but O’Loughlins had an answer for everything. The Dublin outfit had no answer for Paddy Deegan who took the game by the scruff of the neck from very early on scoring five points from play and earning the Man Of The Match accolade. Mark Bergin was immense on frees again while adding two from play with a total tally of eleven. His final free to win the game will never be forgotten by him, or anyone in O’Loughlin Gaels for that matter, as it soared over the blackspot from way out under the Hogan Stand. Mark played a captain’s role leading on and off the pitch and is a credit to the Begin family. Congratulations to all the players.each and every one of them played with their hearts on their sleeves. The management led by Brian Hogan have left nothing to chance and no doubt will carry on in the same vein as they prepare for an All-Ireland semi-final in two weeks time. Another whole club occasion to be savoured. Lovely hurling. CHRISTMAS TREE SALE All Christmas trees purchased at Phelan’s Tree Farm on the Old Golf Links Road will help raise funds for O’Loughlin Gaels Camogie Club. Call in, pick, cut and take away your favourite tree and spend the Christmas period satisfied that you’ve helped provide equipment for our young players in Spring. It’s an easy one. (Eircode location R95 K297). FRESHFORD CHARLIE COLCLOUGH RIP Freshford lost a great character recently with the passing of Charlie Colclough late of Bohergloss, Freshford. Charlie who was only in his mid 50s was a member of a large well known

family in the area and although he had been unwell for some time nevertheless his death caused widespread sorrow and sadness. He was predeceased recently by his mother Mary. He was a great character known for his sense of humour. Quiet and inoffensive. He loved the game of darts and he loved his music especially Gareth Brooks and Michael Jackson whom he impersonated on stage for years. He became famous for his performance of “Man in the Mirror” and won a special award for the same in the Singing Pubs competition back over the years when the Bridge Inn won the final and Charlie was part of the show. His funeral mass took place in St.Lachtains Church, Freshford and burial took place afterwards in St.Lachtains Cemetery. He is mourned by his daughter Chloe and her partner Craig, his granddaughter Charleigh, Chloe’s mother Teresa, his brothers Martin, Anthony, Stephen, Vincent, Joe, Robert and Oliver, his sisters Mary and Majella, Majella’s partner, John, his sisters in law, nephews, nieces aunts uncles and large circle of relatives and many friends to whom deepest sympathy is extended. PADDY RAFTERS BOOK Congratulations and best wishes go out to local man Paddy Rafter whose New Book “The 48 Acts” was launched at the set Theatre Kilkenny on 6th December. Well done also to his son Patrick a professional violinist, on his concert as part of a new Marble City Music Festival which was a sell out BIRTHDAY BOY Special birthday wishes go out to Philip Campion, Sart, Freshford who celebrates his 30th birthday soon. Philip had pre celebrations at a party in Kavanaghs Bar on Saturday night last with family and friends to mark his birthday which comes up shortly. His sister Caroline who resides in Australia at present with her family and two children was unable to make it home for the celebrations. CHRISTMAS FAIR The annual Christmas Fair was held in St. Lachtains Art and Museum Centre on Sunday last and the switching on of the lights took place later in the evening. Monsignor Kennedy blessed the tree and crib and there was some lovely Carol Singing. One of our well known senior citizens Paddy O’Donnell switched on the lights. The village is now lit up for the Christmas period with lights around the square, all down Kilkenny Street , Church Street and Buncrussia Street. LOOPS BIRTHDAY The Loop Café celebrated its first birthday last weekend with free refreshments to patrons who called in on Saturday. The Café is now open every day from Monday to Saturday from 9.30am to 4pm. The Loop Café is a wonderful addition to the village full of character and history. Your continued support would be greatly appreciated. So why not go along and meet a friend or try some of their lovely food and support a local community café. They are also looked for volunteers to help out so if you can give little bit of your time please do so. COMMUNITY ALERT Freshford/Threecastles Text Alert membership renewal is now due. It cost €10 per phone number- new members are most welcome. Contact any of the following committee membersJohn Bergin, Jacinta Power, Anna Morrissey, Mick Cormack, Shem O’Donnell. The group wish to thank everyone who has joined for their continued support and they remind people to be vigilant during these dark evenings towards their property and neighbours. Keep an eye out for anything suspicious and report same to Kilkenny Garda Station, Telephone 056 – 775000 In recent weeks, it has been noted by some local people that items have been removed from some graves in the local Cemetery much to the distraught of the families involved. You are asked to be vigilant and if anybody sees anyone acting suspicious or doing any such act please report same immediately to the Gardai. GAA St.Lachtains GAA held their AGM on Friday evening last with a good crowd in attendance and looking back on a good year

on and off the field. (full report next week). IONAD LACHTAIN St. Lachtains Church Museum and Arts Centre is open every Saturday and Sunday from 11.30am to 4.30pm. SOCCER Freshford town had a number of teams in action at the weekend. On Saturday the U13 were defeated by a much stronger Bridge side on a 5-0 scoreline in their home league game. The U15s meanwhile had a good 2-1 win over Dean Celtic on Saturday at home with Jack Marnelle and Charlie Kavanagh getting the goals for the home side. On Sunday morning the Junior side were at home to Tullaroan and came out the right side of a 3-2 scoreline with goals from Jack Cleere, Cian Freaney and Josh McCarthy BRIDGE Freshford Bridge Club resumed in September and continues each Monday at 7.30pm in Tulla Hall, Threecastles. New members are very welcome. For further information please contact Olive on 087 9257610. NEW BINS There is a new Belly bin on the green in Freshford village provided by Future Street which he said should be a huge benefit for litter prevention. There are also new Leaf Bins up around Woodview and on the small green which can be used for compost later on. PARISH NEWS Mass is held in the Parish Church each Wednesday morning at 9.30am and each Sunday morning at 11am.wiith Mass in Tulla church on Saturday evenings at 7.30pm. Notices The parish newsletter is available on their website every week and also on the website you are free to pay your dues and make donations or any other contributions and you can find out more about it on the website or feel free to contact in the Parish Office. Please note community notices for the parish newsletter should be left in or emailed to the Parish Office by 11am on Thursdays. Parish office hours are Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9am to 1pm. Mass Cards Special printed parish cards are available at the Parish Office or from Annette at Tulla Church signed by Monsignor Kennedy. You can contact the Parish office on 056 8832843

or by email – freshfordd@ossory.ie. Contact Mongr Kieron Kennedy on that number or on 087 25235 21 HELP FOR ALL Are you struggling with anxiety or depression or finding life difficult or feeling isolated at this time GROW is there to help you. Their Mental Health support Groups are free and confidential and open to all no referral or booking is needed. For more information on same you can contact Mary on 087 284342 If you can’t cope and need support text HELLO to 50808. SAMARITAN - Whatever you’re going through a Samaritan will face it with you – available 24 hours a day 365 days a year – Freephone 1161Alone is available for older people who need support and you can call them on 0818 222024 (8am to 8pm) AMBER KILKENNY WOMENS REFUGE – is available for confidential support relating to domestic violence - call them on 1850 424244 (24/7) or on 056 7771404 or email into@amberwomensrefuge.ie. JAMES STEPHENS GAA AND CAMOGIE CLUB AGM REMINDER Members are reminded that the club AGM takes place in the upstairs meeting room, in Larchfield, on Friday 8th. December. at 7:30pm. THE TWELVE DRILLS OF CHRISTMAS For all of you, young and not so young, wishing to work on your hurling skills over the Christmas period, see the attached ‘Twelve drills of Christmas’ document. U21-SEMI-FINAL Despite the bravest of efforts the club’s U-21 hurlers came up short at 2-15 to 2-12 at the end of a thrilling hour’s hurling against the defending county champions, Thomastown, in Saturday’ afternoon’s 2023 championship semi-final on a well presented Larchfield playing surface. A quickfire start which saw Ben Cantwell rob his opponent to rattle the net after three minutes followed by a second green flag for Stephen Manogue in the sixth minute shot James Stephens into an early six point lead before Thomastown registered a score. The champions soon steadied their defence holding the Village scoreless for the next fifteen minutes until Adam O’Connor struck a long range point in the 21st minute. One minute later the men in blue got a lucky break with a

THE TWELVE DRILLS OF CHRISTMAS For all of you, young and not so young, wishing to work on your hurling skills over the Christmas period, see below ‘Twelve drills of Christmas’ document.

JAMES STEPHENS G.A.A. & CAMOGIE CLUB

JAMES STEPHENS G.A.A. & CAMOGIE CLUB LARCHFIELD, KILKENNY JAMES STEPHENS G.A.A.KILKENNY & CAMOGIE CLUB LARCHFIELD, LARCHFIELD, KILKENNY

The Twelve Drills of Christmas

T Th he eT Tw we ellv ve eD Drriilllls so off C Ch hrriis sttm ma as s

Captain Mark Bergin celebrates his team’s Leinster Final win with his NO1. fan

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

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Community & GAA Notes questionable penalty award which they duly dispatched to the net to close the gap at 2-01 to 1-02. For the remainder of the half both sides traded some quality point scoring to leave James Stephens holding a 2-05 to 1-05 lead at the break. In a tough physical encounter, the young Village defenders held their ground against their more experienced opponents with outstanding displays from full backs Stephen Power-Kellett, Sam McEvoy and Noah Manogue. The half back line of Paddy Keogh, Adam O’Connor and Oisin Bateman were equally up to the task with help from midfielders Eoin Deely and Sean Bergin. From the early minutes of the second half Thomastown upped their game and forced a point blank save from goalkeeper, Daniel Power, in the third minute. Continuing their pressure game Thomastown knocked over two points before they prised open the Village defence for a well taken goal in the 5th minute to take the lead for the first time at 2-07 to 2-06. The home club responded immediately with a long range score from Oisin Bateman to level the game again at 2-07 each. Further points from Stephen Manogue (2) and Jamie O’Keeffe kept the sides on level terms until the 13th minute. Now with the physical demands of the game impacting on the younger Village players, Thomastown reeled off a succession of points without reply to give themselves a four point cushion at 2-14 to 2-10 as the game entered the final ten minutes. With both defences unyielding against sustained attacks over the closing minutes the only scores from Ed McDermott and Stephen Manogue (1-06 in total) proved insufficient to haul in the powerful champions who went on to claim victory and a place in the final to defend their 2022 title. For James Stephens, after the defeat, consolation comes in the fact that almost the entire panel will be eligible to line out in next year’s campaign. JUNIOR CAMOGIE FINAL On Sunday morning in bitterly cold Ballyragget the club’s Junior camogie team suffered a heartbreaking 2-10 to 2-08 defeat at the hands of Erin’s Own in a rip-roaring Kilkenny junior “C” camogie final. After a promising opening six minutes when Roisin Leahy put the Village ahead 0-02 to 0-00 The Village girls lost their way somewhat handing control to Erin’s Own who took advantage rattling the net in the 12th and 17th minutes to take a 2-03 to 0-03 lead. The loss through injury of influential centre forward Cady Boyle did not help the Village girls’ cause at this stage of the game. In the 28th minute a rare James Stephens assault on Erin’s Own defence eventually created a goal opportunity for Jenna Larkin to finish to the net and raise hopes of a revival at 2-4 to 1-03 as the half time whistle sounded. Finding renewed spirit, the Village girls continued on the attack and reduced the deficit at 2-04 to 1-05 with points from Roisin Leahy in the third and seventh minutes. The Erin’s Own response was swift as they fought back with two single scores of their own to restore their advantage at 2-06 to 1-05. Much credit for the comeback must be attributed to a sturdy defence in which half backs Niamh Leahy, Sophie Meagher and Kate Larkin with midfielders Tara McGuire and Anne Bergin excelled. When Jenna Larkin slotted over two spectacular deliveries in the 12th and 14th minutes followed by a goal finish one minute later the sides were level at 2-07 each and suddenly the destination of the title was in the melting pot. Following a constant flow of James Stephens attacks which faltered at the last second and might have yielded more scores a fine Roisin Leahy point in the 19th minute pushed James Stephens into the lead at 2-08 to 2-07 which they doggedly held right up to the final minutes. In the closing frantic minutes and in a rare advance into James Stephens territory Erin’s Own with a fortunate break from a tussle tapped over a point and in the 34th minute they shut the door on the valiant James Stephens girls with a point from a 65 to take the title after a titanic battle. The cruelty of sport. The Village lineup was Lucy McGrath, Roisin O’Sullivan, Kerry Hennessy, Fiona McKee, Niamh Leahy, Sophie Meagher, Kate Larkin, Tara McGuire, Anna Bergin, Hannah Joyce, Cady Boyle, Jenna Larkin, Roisin Leahy, Emma O’Brien Niamh O’Hara, Ann White and Lucy Drennan. REUNION NIGHT On Saturday night last, club chairperson, Aodán O Ruairc welcomed a large gathering of “aging gracefully” hurling and camogie stars for a reunion of the Gaelic football championship winning sides of the 1990’s under the management of “Mr. Football” Jim Mulvin, the 2000 Kilkenny Junior championship winners, the 2002 Kilkenny Junior camogie champions and the U-21 hurling champions of 2000 and 2002. Also welcomed as guests of honour for the night were renowned former Meath manager Sean Boylan and former Uachtarain an Cumann Camogiaochta, Catherine Neary. After the presentations, while recording for his Kilkenny City Radio sports programme, Nicky Brennan paid tribute to Catherine for her work in helping to spread the growth of camogie throughout the country over her three year’s of service as Uachtarain Cumann Camogaiochta. Catherine herself in the interview heralded the phenomenal spread of the game not only in the James Stephens club but across the county and nationwide in recent years. Later in his interview “Mr. Football”, Jim Mulvin spoke enthusiastically --- and with a few amusing asides thrown in for good measure, much to the delight of his large fan base -- about his reign as senior football manager and the great response he received from the players which brought six county titles to the club in the 1990’s and early 2000’s. Sean Boylan spoke about his own experience as Meath football manager, a tale of rags to riches over his long reign as manager. Sean also highlighted the wonderful volunteering in clubs which passes from generation to generation and is the hallmark of the association. After the formalities the large gathering of former players enjoyed renewing acquaintances and reliving old memories with former teammates as the

evening wore on. Congratulations Liam “Chuck” O’Connor, Sheasky McGuire, Richie Manogue and the organising committee on the success of the night which will live long in the memory of all who attended. MASS OF REMEMBRANCE On Wednesday 29th November, Club chairman, Aodán O Ruairc extended a welcome to Fr. Kieran O’Shea for the celebration of the annual Mass of Remembrance. Before Mass the names of members, friends and supporters of the club who passed away during the year were read out to the attendance. In his homily Fr. Kieran complimented the club for remembering the deceased, many of whom had contributed to the playing and social development of the club within the parish over the years. Following mass, a collection was made for the local branch of the St. Vincent De Paul Society. CLUB PODCAST Why not tune in to Liam Kelly O’Rourke’s latest podcast which features a pre-match discussion with team manager Paddy Butler on Saturday’s U-21 semi-final v Thomastown, another listen to Barry Henrique’s exciting broadcast of the 2005 Leinster Club final v UCD in Portlaoise. The programme also includes a discussion with team manager Eamon Tyrrell on the run up to the club’s dramatic last-minute victory over Na Piarsaigh (Cork) in the 2008 All-Ireland Feile final in Portlaoise. A programme well worth tuning into while relaxing by the fireside on a cold Winter’s night. CHRISTMAS CONCERT Big band music devotees will be pleased to note that St. Patrick’s Brass & Reed Band will be presenting their annual Christmas concert on Monday night,18th December in St. Patrick’s Church starting at 7.30pm. On the night the senior band will be accompanied by their talented Junior band members as they present a selection of heartwarming Christmas carols and popular melodies from across the generations to spread some timely Christmas cheer to an appreciative audience. Admission is free and all are welcome on the night. CLUB SHOP With Christmas around the corner, folk should take note that shop supervisor Breda Manogue will have the Red & Green shop open for business each Tuesday night, from 8pm to 9pm, for purchasing of club sports and leisurewear for under the tree on Christmas morning. LOTTO Last week’s numbers were 6 :11 : 19 : 32. There was no winner. This week’s jackpot increases to €10,200. The €40 consolation winners were Mary Whitford, Brian Madden, Sinead O’Keeffe, Mark Noonan and John Egan. You can purchase your entry online, on Clubforce, at any time prior to 6pm on Tuesday night. GOWRAN GOWRAN AC Congrats to all Gowran AC athletes who competed in the Novice and Uneven age Cross Country Championships. MOLLY’S TEA ROOM Come and check out their menu, they have added a few new items with a delicious Jingle Bell Bagel for Christmas. Christmas cupcakes are available to order, €10 a box. GOWRAN OUTDOOR HUB Thanks to the generous support of the Kilkenny Leader Partnership, the town and village renewal grant, Kilkenny County Council and other fundraising activities €395,000 is secured. Construction is well underway, with the climbing frame and courts already taking shape. Estimated completion date is spring 2024. To finish turning this dream into a reality, they need your help! They’re reaching out to the incredible local community to join them in the final stages of funding. Every donation, big or small, will contribute to the success of the Gowran Outdoor Hub. https://www.gofundme.com/f/gowran-hub-fundraiser CHRISTMAS ARRIVES EARLY AS U-21S COMPLETE DOUBLE Christmas arrived early for Young Irelands in Ballyragget on Saturday Afternoon last as they completed The U-19/U-21 Roinn B Championship double to round off 2023 on a high. The U-21s prevailed 1-19 to 0-16 against a gallant St. Martins in The County Final after extra-time following a thrilling battle, as several players were tasting double success having been involved in the U-19 win also against St. Martins. Young Irelands led 0-4 to 0-2 at the midway point of the firsthalf, before a Paddy Brennan goal had given them a 1-5 to 0-5 lead by the 23rd minute. St. Martins finished the half strongly with three unanswered points as they drew level at the half-time break. 0-8 to 1-5.

U-21 Roinn B Champions 2023

A Padraig Naddy point early in the second-half put Young Irelands back in front, before St. Martins replied with three further unanswered points as they led 0-11 to 1-6 by the 40th minute. The Gowran men began to motor again, and by the three quarter stage they restored parity (1-10 to 0-13) that included points by Padraig Naddy, Diarmuid Langton and Jimmy Lennon. The final quarter was tense but intriguing as both teams added just two points each. The Teams remained all square approaching injuy-time (1-11 to 0-14), but a Young Irelands point in the 59th minute gave them outright lead. However, St. Martins brought extra-time about with a deserved levelling point in the 63rd minute that was just rewards for their battling efforts. Extra-time saw Young Irelands lead 1-15 to 0-16 at half-time, before they dominated the second period with four unanswered points to run out 5 point winners. A perfect end to a very successful year for Young Irelands where great progress was made across all age groups. They can deservedly look forward to the Christmas break following double silverware, before turning their attention to 2024 where they can look forward with optimism to the year ahead. Congratulations on a superb triumph. DANNY DELIVERS MILESTONE SUCCESS Congratulations to Danny Mullins who achieved a 500th career win on Irish soil last week as he partnered The Gavin Cromwell trained Leish Oscars Son to victory in The Doneraile Walk Beginners Chase. For good measure, he followed up aboard Kings Halo in the following race to complete a double, while in Thurles last Thursday he won the featured race for his Uncle Willie Mullins aboard Classic Getaway. That victory on Classic Getaway was a 5-timer for The Champion Trainer with 4 of those winners ridden by Champion Jockey Paul Townend. Danny first came on the scene as a 16-year-old in 2008 with his first winner aboard Our Girl Sophie for The Jim Bolger stable in Leopardstown. He came to light that same year at The Galway Summer Festival with a treble on The Friday Evening of The Festival. The following year in 2009, he won The big Handicap at The Galway Festival for his Dad Tony with Rock n Roll Kid, and while there was a few lean years in between, he has been seen at his best in more recent years. Among his big race triumphs were Total Recall in The Thyestes Chase, Kemboy in The Irish Gold Cup, Flooring Porter twice in The World Hurdle and also Tornado Flyer in The King George in 2021. Been a key member of The Willie Mullins stable, no doubt, more big race triumphs to follow for The Gowran native in the weeks, months and years ahead. BENNETTSBRIDGE CHRISTMAS COLLECTION The St Vincent De Paul Christmas collection will take place outside the churches in Tullaherin and Bennettbridge this weekend 9th/10th of December. Please support this very worthy cause and if anyone needs support in the locality the contact number is 087 1723590 SYMPATHY The sympathy of the parish is extended to Bishop Niall Coll, on the death of his father, Willie Coll, Hillhead, St Johnston, Co Donegal in Letterkenny University Hospital. He is survived by his wife Kathleen, his sons and daughters, Bishop Niall, Gerard, Annemarie Rafferty and Caitriona, sonin-law Colm, brother Neil, sister Mary McDade, brother-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews cousins, extended family and friends. CHRISTMAS SALE The Christmas Sale organised by the Art Group was very well supported with a steady flow of patrons during the day. The artists presented a great variety of art and crafts and the end result looked amazing. It was a very sociable occasion and the effort involved in putting it together was very worthwhile. Thanks to all who helped especially Harry Murphy who did the heavy lifting also Cor Huibers for his help with signage. The group will take a break now until the New Year. MENS SHED The Bennettsbridge Men’s Shed group has made a very positive start in the village. The attendance has been very good each week. Three members represented the group at a Regional Meeting of the Mens Shed Organisation held recently in The Orchard House. Noel Ryan, Sean Galway and Kevin Davey relayed information from the meeting with many ideas and suggestions for the local group going forward. Officers

Bennettsbridge/John Lockes players on Caint Junior Team of the Year

Vivienne Holmes Junior Player of the Year elected were, Chairman, Noel Ryan, Vice Chairman, Frank Croke, Secretary, Paddy Gubbins, Treasurer, Kevin Davey. CARDS Last Tuesday the weekly card game was held for a special charity. Thanks to organisers, players and sponsors for their efforts. A substantial amount was raised for Cois Nore in Kilkenny. GATHERING Next week the group Christmas Dinner will be held in the Hoban Hotel. Also the Annual Flower arranging event with Annemarie Mahon takes place. CHURCH NEWS Weekday mass Wednesday Bennrttsbridge 10.30am Friday(Holy Day)Bennettsbridge 10.30am Weekend Masses Tullaherin Saturday 8pm. Bennettsbridge Sunday 10.30am CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING CERMEMONY There will be a ceremony, blessing of tree, Santa, Carol singing and official switching on of the lights in Bennettsbridge on Saturday at 4.30.pm. It would be great if some adult choir members could join Billy and the children in the Carol singing. CAMOGIE Congratulations to Bennettsbridge/John Lockes Junior Camogie Stars, Luci Brennan, Vivienne Holmes, Meg Ryan, Rachel Hartley, Aisling O’Sullivan, Rachel Phelan and Laura Phelan selected on the Kilkenny Camogie Junior Team of the Year Congratulations also to Vivienne Holmes Nolan winning Junior Player of the Year for the second year in a row. U16 FINAL It wasn’t to be for the u16s despite getting off to a strong start. It was Emeralds who proved the stronger team on the day. A huge well done to all the girls who put in a massive effort despite the freezing conditions. A big thank you to the management team Bruce, Sandra and Spike for all your efforts with the girls. Congratulations and well done to Erin Morrissey who was awarded player of the match by PJ Cullen. GAA U 19 LEAGUE FINAL Bennettsbridge U 19 hurlers play Gowran in the much delayed Roinn B league final this Saturday. Please see the Kilkenny GAA website for fixture details. Best of luck to all the team and mentors. All support greatly appreciated. AGM 2023 The AGM for 2023 took place in the clubhouse last Friday night. Chairman Alan Flynn and Secretary Patrick O Neill gave detailed accounts of the year gone by. The report showed the club in a healthy position with good progress made on loan repayments during the year. Discussions took place regarding underage grades within the county and the need for further fundraising in 2024. Mary Blanchfield was welcomed back as treasurer for the upcoming year. The chairman thanked all who helped out in any way during the year and looked forward to 2024. Officers elected included, Chairman Alan Flynn, Secretary Patrick O Neill, Treasurer Mary Blanchfield, County Board Rep John Byrne. A committee was also finalised on the night. Best wishes to all for the year ahead. CHRISTMAS RAFFLE

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

Community & GAA Notes Group picture of artists at the Christmas Sale in Bennettsbridge

Emeralds Camogie Gaeltec U16 D County Champions

On our Junior Camogie Team Niamh O’Donoghue (Ryan) was selected for Team of the Year. Congratulations Niamh. OWNING HOUSE

Joan Cleere with her stand at the Bennettsbridge Art Group Christmas Sale

Mos Kharaghani with his table at the Christmas Art Sale

On Sunday last, December 3rd, our residents were joined by committee members, volunteers and some family members to start our Christmas celebrations. A fantastic atmosphere in our decked out dining room was added to by the festive spirit on display form our hard working staff. No stone was left unturned to provide a great afternoon of food, wine, presents and chat as all diners were served up a traditional Christmas, Turkey and Ham dinner with all of the trimmings. With festive tunes playing softly in the background and the constant chatter of old friends conversing and new friendships being forged it really was a brilliant way to kick start the month which will see many more events for our residents, staff, volunteers and the public alike to come and enjoy in our peaceful little community. We would like to thank the members of the public who have dropped off care packages to us here, it is heartwarming to see such kindness, even in these hard financial times. JOHNSTOWN

All support greatly appreciated for this year’s Christmas raffle. Tickets are now available from all committee members and from businesses around the village. CLUB SHOP New additions include a training top, shorts and tee shirts in the Bennettsbridge O’Neills club shop. To access the full range of club gear simply go to the O’Neill’s website and enter Bennettsbridge in the search box. With Christmas coming some club gear would make an ideal gift. SPLIT THE POT Well done to Teresa Freyne who won 151 euro, Adam Treacy who won 30 euro and to Vee Farrell who won 20 euro. The next draw will be on December 21st with extra prizes on offer for Christmas. The competition can also be entered online using club force. Please see the clubs Facebook page for details of how to enter on line. Envelopes are available in the usual spots around the village. Thanks for the continued support. DICKSBORO CLUB LOTTO Dicksboro GAA Club LOTTO Results 30th November 2023. Nos: 4 15 18 32. Jackpot: €13, 700.Not Won Draw Prizes – €50: Sean Breathnach c/o Online . €25 each Babs Cantwell c/o Ned Buggy €25 each Mary Cody c/o Brian Fitzpatrick. €25 each Paddy Grace c/o P Grace Hurlers Co Op Draw Dermot Moloney c/o Podge Lacey. Promotors prize Deirdre OReilly We encourage all Dicksboro Families to sign up and play weekly for €2 per draw and we thank everyone who is currently doing so. WE’RE HEADING TO CROKER Our Senior Camogie Team have booked their spot in the AIB Club Championship All Ireland Final after a spirited team performance Saturday last in Ashbourne defeating a very good Loughgiel Shamrocks last years All Ireland finalist. Two second half goals from our POTM Asha McHardy secured our place to the Final. It’s a first for our Club on a Camogie or Hurling level and what a proud Club we are. Everyone of us are so proud of these girls and their Management, it’s been a magical year. We are looking for everyone’s support over the next two weeks so please keep an eye on our Social Channels and ClubZap for updates. We wish nothing but the best to these girls in their final preparations when they will step out in Croke Park on Sunday 17th at 5.15pm. Boro Abú

TEAMS OF THE YEAR 2023 On Friday last in O’Loughlin GAA Clubhouse the Teams of the Year were awarded. On our Senior Team we wish to congratulate Kirsty Maher, Katie Byrne, Ciara Phelan, Aoife Prendergast, Jenny Clifford and Amy Clifford. A massive Congratulations to Katie Byrne who was selected as Senior Player of the Year 2023 for her stand out Season.

Congratulations to Katie Byrne who was selected as Senior Player of the Year 2023 for her stand-out Season

CHURCH NEWS. Masses for the holyday December Friday 8th Galmoy 10.15am. Christmas offerings are now due. There will be a Carol Service in the Church of the Assumption on Sunday December 10th at 7.30pm, all are welcome. In preparation for Christmas there will be an hour of quiet prayer, reflection and music in St. Kieran’s Church on Sunday December 10th and 17th from 3pm to 4pm. WELCOME ... Welcome to the faith community baby Michael John Patrick son of Michael and Niamh O’Donovan, Garranroe, Thurles, and also baby Millie daughter of Kieran and Karina Grehan, Church Road., Johnstown who were baptised recently.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS The countdown is on to Saturday December 9th when the lights will be turned on in the village. Children will assemble in the Church carpark at 5.30pm where they will be entertained by DJ Michael Glendon. Then we will hold a Parade of light to the Square, where the official turning on of the lights will take place at 6pm with a special recognition of all the carers in the area. Remembrance rosettes will be placed on the tree by the families of all the parishioners who passed away during the year. Then the children will meet the main man Santa at St. Mary’s Hall. A collection for Temple Street. Hospital will be presented to Santa. Hoping to see a great crowd on the night. SYMPATHY.... Sympathy is extended to the Glendon Family, Dublin Road who have been bereaved by the death of their cousin Charlie Colclough, Lord Edward St. Kilkenny and late of Freshford. Sympathy also to Johnny and Laddie Ryan , Kitty Stapleton, Johnstown and Margaret Edwards, England, who have bereaved by the death of their sister Ann Gibbs, Gillingham, England. May she rest in peace. SPA DEVELOPMENT/FENIANS LOTTO... This week’s winning numbers 4,12,19,26. There were two match threes, Catherine Garrett and The Ryan Family, Sharavawn. SPA UNITED AFC Weekend results, Junior League division 2 East End 6 Spa 1, U13 SFAI National Trophy Spa 5 St. Joseph’s Waterford 0, U13 boys league division 2 Spa 2 Lions 0. Also in action were the U11 girls who took on Kilkenny Utd. and played some great football and continue with their development. URLINGFORD EMERALDS CAMOGIE CLUB Congrats to our U16 girls who beat Bennettsbridge on Sunday in the Gaeltec U16D County Final in Dicksboro GAA, Palmerstown. Emeralds 4-08; Bennettsbridge 3-05. Sunday’s match in Palmerstown will go down as one of the best matches the Emeralds supporters witnessed in a long time. County final winners and league final winners. They should be very proud of themselves. To win a final you need a good management team in place. That falls to Shona Connolly and James Quinlan who have had a great year with these girls, they deserve great praise for doing a huge amount of work with them. Winter training is never easy but they kept the girls going throughout. Enjoy the well-deserved break! Team: Clodagh O’Shea, Cliona Carey (vice captain), Ruth Moriarty (captain), Aoibheann Ryall, Dearbhla Gleeson, Ciara Joyce, Niamh Cleere, Lily Cleere, Aoibhe Burke, Laura Flynn, Roisin Gibbons, Allanah Russell, Aine Carey, Lily Kavanagh, Leyla Ahern. Subs: Aobha Minogue, Roisin Wall, Roisin Walsh, Ruth Hickey, Shaoirla Newman, Katie Mai Broderick (inj). Management: Shona Connolly, James Quinlan. EMERALDS URLINGFORD AND GRAINE LOTTO November 27th prize fund was €15,300. Jackpot: €13,300. Numbers drawn: 7, 15, 22, 27, bonus no 29. No winner and two match three winners: Emer O’Dwyer, David Butler. Five lucky dips of €20 each: Sam; The Joyce Grandkids; G. O’Flaherty, N and G Burke, Tristan Byron. Promoters prize: The Girls. SET DANCING Graine Hall every Tuesday at 8.30pm. Live music, sets called by Paddy Martin. All are welcome. Contact Phil Fogarty 086 8638782; Mary Webster 087 7936113. URLINGFORD ARMS SPLIT THE POT This week’s winner of Split the Pot is Conor and Sinead Curran who will receive €770. Congrats to you both on behalf of Urlingford Arms Darts Club. Tickets €2 on sale in participating businesses in town, with proceeds going to Urlingford Arms Darts Club. Thanks to everyone for their continued support. GRAINE CARDS Graine progressive 25 card game every Wednesday night at 8.30pm in Graine Hall. All are welcome. URLINGFORD / GRAINE DEFIBRILLATOR GROUP

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

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Community & GAA Notes In case of emergency, call: 085 2726396. URLINGFORD NEWS Anyone wishing to submit news items, club events, announcements etc can do so by emailing urlingfordnotes@gmail.com. If you have any photos you wish to include, please forward them to the email address.

tion prize winners were Mary Mullan, Pat and Marian Hally, Eoin Byrne, Mairead Buggy and John and Margaret Bergin. The promoters’ prize winners were Shay Healy, Kay Phelan and Helen Cahill.

The Maher family at the lights with Santa

HUGGINSTOWN NEWMARKET STONEYFORD MASS TIMES Hugginstown, Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, at 9.30a.m. Vigil - Thursday 7th. at 8.00p.m. Friday 8th. at 10.00a.m. Vigil - Saturday 9th. at 8.00p.m.; Sunday 10th. at 10.00a.m. Stoneyford, Vigil,Thursday 7th. at 6.30p.m Vigil - Saturday 9th. at 6.30p.m. Friday 8th. Feast of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Holy Day ---- Mass times above PRAY FOR Anniversary Masses Maureen Connolly, Stonecarthy. Mass in Stoneyford Church on Saturday 9th. December at 6.30p.m. Martin Brennan, Gowlawn; Pat and Margaret Irish, Hugginstown. Mass in Hugginstown Church on Saturday 9th. December at 8.00p.m.Peter Kenneally, Barnadown. Mass in Hugginstown Church on Sunday 10th. December at 10.00a.m. ROTA Rota 9th. and 10th. December 2023 (Second Sunday of Advent). Readers: Stoneyford: Saturday 6.30p.m. Sheila Raggett. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Tommy Murphy. Sunday 10.00a.m. Noreen Kenneally Eucharistic Ministers: Stoneyford,Saturday 6.30p.m. Kitty Wallace. Hugginstown: Saturday 8.00p.m. Mary Cahill. Sunday 10.00a.m. Ann Power Rota for 7th./8th. December as on 2nd./3rd. December if possible please. New Rota available for Hugginstown Church: Please collect in Sacristy SAFEGUARDING CONTACTS Diocesan Designated Liaison Person. Ms. Ailish Higgins Tel: 087 100 0232. Aghaviller Parish Representatives are: Deirdre Rohan and Catherina Roche. Many thanks to Teresa Broderick and Carmel O’Toole who have stepped aside as our Parish Representatives after many years. Thank you both. LOTTO Lotto: Aghaviller Parish and Carrickshock G. A. A. Draw: Monday 27th. November 2023 Numbers: 12; 13; 24; 11. No Winner First 3 Numbers Drawn. No Jackpot Winner: €30.00. Winners. Katie O’Meara, Croan, Eileen Sutton, Ballycaum, Luke and Thomas McBride, Kilfera, Tommy Hoyne, Croan, Ber Doyle, Ballintee. 3 x €15.00 (Sellers),Teresa Fitzgerald, Mary Carroll, Padraig Crowley. Next Draw on Monday 4th. December. Please submit returns by 8.30p.m. Draw at 9.00p.m. NOVEMBER OFFERINGS 2023 Many thanks to all who contributed to the November Offerings over the past weeks To donate directly – Use IBAN: IE19 AIBK 9330 9000 0561 20 (BIC: AIBKIE2D). SCOIL AIREAGAIL BALLYHALE Christmas Market on December 17th. from 11.00a.m. to 2.00p.m. Music, Baking; Crafts and an abundance of Christmas Cheer. All are very welcome. KCETB Do You Have Difficulty with Reading or Writing? Do you know in Ireland that almost 1 in 5 adults have difficulty with reading and writing? One in four have difficulty with maths. One in two have difficulty with digital devices. If you or a family member would like support or upskilling, please contact KCETB (Kilkenny Carlow Education and Training Board) for a free and confidential service for all adults. Contact details: Kilkenny Adult Learning Service 056 776 3149. Carlow Adult Learning Service: 059 913 5544. “Let us empower everyone in Ireland to be their best possible selves” Simon Harris TD Minister for Further and Higher Education.

GORTNAHOE GLENGOOLE EUCHARISTIC ADORATION Glengoole Wednesday 10am to 2pm, Gortnahoe Thursday 10am to 1pm GATE COLLECTION St Vincent de Paul Church Gate Collection will be taken up this weekend of the 9th and 10th December and your support would be greatly appreciated. GORTHNAHOE COMMUNITY HALL CHRISTMAS DRAW The Hall Committee has delivered tickets and flyers to each house in the Parish for the Christmas Draw which will take place on Sunday the 17th December. Sold tickets can be returned to the Committee members or to the hall, Friday night the 15th from 8.00pm to 9.pm, Saturday the 16th from 11.00am to 12.00 noon and Sunday the 17th from 11.00am to 12.00 noon There will be great prizes on offer, first prize will be €300, second prize €200, third prize Christmas Hamper, fourth prize €100, fifth prize Christmas cake and a bottle of whiskey and many other prizes. The Christmas Draw will be an important fundraiser for the upkeep of the Community Hall. TUESDAY BRIDGE Bridge is being played each Tuesday night in Gortnahoe Hall at 7.30pm. If you would like to join or find out more information please contact this number 089 4349106 GORTNAHOE BINGO Bingo continues this Saturday evening at the earlier time of 4.00pm with doors opening from 3.00pm and will continue each Saturday evening at the same time. Over €2,660 in prize money on offer including a special €500 game. There is hampers and other prizes on the split the pot. SPLIT THE POT Congratulations to last weekend’s winner Anne Fitzgerald, who won €194 in the Split the Pot draw. Envelopes are available at the usual outlets. Split the Pot for the month of December will be in support of The Gortnahoe Christmas lights. The draw takes place each Sunday at 12pm in Gortnahoe Hall. Your support would be appreciated ELDERCARE SERVICES Eldercare services through MFRC Glengoole will include the following: meals on wheels deliveries every Tuesday and Thursday, social group every Wednesday 1-3pm,includes soup, dinner and entertainment, laundry service, senior alert scheme for Gortnahoe Glengoole area, dementia cafe 1st Tuesday of each month 11.30-1pm, social group every Tuesday at 11am in the Old School House, The Commons. For further information on any of the above please contact Alice Teehan 052-9157992 PHILIP MOLONEY RIP The death has taken place of Philip (Phil) Moloney, Springfield, Grange, Barna, Thurles, Co. Tipperary, December 2nd, peacefully at St. Luke’s Hospital, Kilkenny in his 86th year surrounded by his loving family. Predeceased by his parents Jeremiah and Josephine and his brother Thomas who died in infancy. Sadly missed by his heartbroken wife Joan, his adoring family Gerard, Christopher, Philip, Deirdre and Josephine, daughtersin-law Veronica, Kathleen and Noreen, sons-in-law Jim and Seàn, grandchildren Odhràn, Caoilainn, Colman, Ciara, Aidan, Cormac, Sarah, Claire, Rachael, Saoirse, Michael, Niamh and Caoimhe, brothers Jimmy, Patrick and Jerry, sisters June (Brett) and Mary (Gleeson), brother-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family, neighbours and a wide circle of friends. Philip reposed at Doyle’s Funeral Home Urlingford. Removal took place Wednesday to the Church of the Sacred Heart, Gortnahoe for Requiem Mass. Interment took place afterwards in the Church of St. Patrick and St. Oliver graveyard Glengoole. May he rest in peace.

The Holland Family

MILL FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE

BALLYRAGGET BALLYOUSKILL CHRISTMAS LIGHTS The turning on of the Christmas Lights following the Christmas Market on Saturday was once again a joyous community event. Many thanks to the organisers of the market, and those who work tirelessly to get the lights and display on the square so fabulous each year. This year the lights were turned on by cousins Andy Holland and Nell Marie Kelly assisted by their parents. GAA AGM St. Patrick’s GAA held their AGM on Thursday 30th November. Outgoing secretary Ashleigh Butler gave a full report on the past years activities, she thanked all for their help and continued support over the past four years as she handed over the position to Enda Mooney. Tomas Healy gave a full financial report and Martin Bergin gave his chairman’s address. Clara McEvoy was thanked for her contribution as PRO for the past two years. Nominations for this positions are sought, please contact the chairman Martin Bergin or the secretary. MASS A Mass for 8th of December will be held in Ballyouskill on Friday morning at 10.30am. REMEMBERANCE CAROL SRVICE On Friday December 8th December there will be a Rememberance Carol Service in St Patrick’s Church at 7pm featuring Castlecomer Male Voice Choir and Vocum Daru KIDS CHRISTMAS PARTY

This Sunday December 10th from 3pm to 5 pm.a Christmas party for kids aged 5 to 12 is being held “it’s gonna be a blast” in Ballyouskill Hall with music playing and fun games to play too! €5 admission. SENIOR CITIZENS CHRISTMAS PARTY Senior Citizens party on Tuesday 12th December. Top class Christmas dinner, music and dancing, refreshments and a free raffle. Bus from the Square to and from Durrow on the day. Names to Ballyragget Credit Union. Parishioners €20. Guests from outside the parish €30 please put your names down in the Credit Union. Many thanks to everyone who supported and bought tickets for the hamper raffle and to SuperValu for their support. CONAHY GAA AGM The AGM of Conahy Shamrocks GAA Club was held last Friday night in the GAA Clubhouse. The main club officers elected for

2024 on the night were: Chairperson – Kevin Healy, Secretary – Michael Bergin, Treasurer – Christy Kennedy. Best wishes were also extended to the new Intermediate team management of Alan Healy (manager), Declan Buggy, Padraic Nolan, Eoin Murphy and Eoin Croghan (S and C). DEVELOPMENT FUNDRAISER Community members are asked to continue to support the Conahy Shamrocks GAA Club’s Development fundraiser draw. Tickets for the draw will be €25 each, or three for €65, or five for €100, with the winner with the winner receiving a new Hyundai Tucson car or €35,000 in cash. Tickets are available from promoters locally, and a website that will allow the purchase of tickets for the draw is available on www.winahyundaituscon.ie. The draw is also actively being promoted on social media platforms. All support would be greatly appreciated for what will be a development to benefit both young and old in the community. CLUB LOTTO The numbers drawn in the Conahy Shamrocks GAA Club Lotto were 6, 7 and 12. There was no jackpot winner so the consola-

THANK YOU We would like to thank everybody who attended and supported our Craft Fair, it was a huge success. CHRISTMAS CLOSING HOURS The Centre will be closing on Wednesday 20th of December at 1pm and reopening at 9am on January the 8th 2024. COUNSELLING SERVICES Our low cost Counselling Services, includes One-to-One, Adult, Teens and Children’s Play Therapy. Counselling Provided: Bereavement, Stress, Anxiety & Depression, Drug & Substance and Gambling Addictions. Play therapy is now also available. Age 5 years and upwards. Please contact Sue for more information or to make an appointment. SENIOR ALERT If you need to apply for a Personal Alarm, please contact Sue or Josephine. DEFIBRILLATOR Please note that there is a defibrillator located in the Mill Family Resource Centre if and when it may be required. APPEAL FOR CLOTHES DONATIONS Any clothes donations would be greatly appreciated in aid of our counselling/play therapy services. Donations can be left into the Centre, please call before dropping off. JOBS TRAINING BOARD We have a Jobs Board here at the Centre, feel free to call in and take a look, we also offer help and support with CV’s and cover letters if required. Contact number for the Centre 056-8838466

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

Sport

Kilkenny Sport Focus Michael O’Leary

European cross countrychampionships In more recent years Kilkenny Athletes have had medal success at The European Cross Country Championships, and this year Hannah Kehoe and Maebh Richardson from Kilkenny City Harriers Club will represent Ireland this coming Sunday in The Ladies U-20 race in Brussels, Belgium. Both Athletes competed recently in The National Cross Country Championships in Gowran that were a qualifier for Sunday's Europeans, and both girls performed very well with Maebh finishing 4th and Hannah in 6th position. Maebh is based Stateside in The US where she is studying, while Hannah is from Borris in Carlow and has the experience of competing in last years Europeans in Turin, Italy where she finished 72nd. Both Athletes are Coached by Maebh's Mum Niamh Richardson who previously competed for Ireland at The

World Cross Country Championships. The Richardson family have previous experience of competing in The European Cross Country Championships, and with success also. Maebh's sister Aoibhe was part of The Ireland Team that won a Silver Medal at The 2019 European's in Lisbon, Portugal when she finished a highly creditable 17th, while last year she helped The Ireland Team to a bronze medal. There was further Kilkenny success at last years European's with Shay McEvoy helping the Ireland Team to a bronze medal in The Mens U-23. The National Championships in Gowran was the first time since 1984 that The National Seniors were held in County Kilkenny when Kilmacow hosted the event 39 years ago. It was a memorable Nationals for Kilkenny City Harriers,

as there were historic gold medals for both the Junior Ladies and Senior Mens who were both winning The Team events for the very first time

Kilkenny City and County Bridge results Ormonde Castle Bridge Club – Monday Nights Results 4th December 1st Prize Marion Kilbride/Ellen Dowling 2nd Prize Marguerite Walsh/Hilda Richardson 3rd Prize Mary Shields/Catherine McGoff 4th Prize Brigid Smee/Annette Kelly

Abbey Bridge Club – Tuesday Nights Results 28th November 1st Prize Deirdre Wilson/Margaret Stewart 2nd Prize Joan Cashin/Catherine Costello 3rd Prize Catherine King/John McMahon

Christmas Prizes next Monday night followed by presentation of prizes. Please be attendance at 6.45 p.m.

Club 17 – Tuesday Mornings Results 28th November 1st Prize Mary Walsh/Linda Darlington 2nd Prize Brian Keane/Catherine Keane 3rd Prize Noel Walsh/Dave Sutton

Rothe Bridge Club – Monday Nights Results 27th November 1st Prize Ber Butler/John Bracken 2nd Prize Colin Shaw/Bernie O’Connor 3rd Prize Joe Gannon/Richard Lowry 4th Prize Mary O’Reilly/Margaret Mullins

Confederation 350 Bridge Club – Wednesday Nights Results 29th November 1st Prize Breda Murray/Dympna White 2nd Prize Mary Condon/Josephine Leahy 3rd Prize Maura Coady/Margaret Walsh

in the National Senior Cross Country. The Junior Ladies led by Maebh and Hannah won Team Gold giving the girls

triple cause for celebration having also booked their ticket to Brussels on Sunday, while they also have a trip to Portugal to look forward to in

February as the Kilkenny City Harriers reward for winning Team Gold is a place in The European Club Cross Country Championships. The Senior Mens Team were also winning Team Gold in The National Seniors for the very first time, as very strong performances in particular from Peter Lynch, Eoin Everard, Cathal O'Reilly and long serving Brian Maher led the Harriers to The Gold Medal following a countback. That was the first time since 1999 that a Club outside Dublin won The Senior Mens Team Gold Medal. Having had their most successful Europeans last year with five medals, Ireland will be more than hopeful of adding to their medal collection this year in a Squad led by twice previous European Champion Fionnuala McCormack (nee Britton). Wishing Hannah Kehoe and Maebh Richardson the very best as they will attempt to play a part in helping Ireland to a Team Medal in The U-20 race.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

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Camogie - Review

Sport

All pics courtesy of Inpho

Shamrocks goal scorer Caitrin Dobbin tackles Caoimhe Dowling

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITORKILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

AIB All-Ireland Senior Club Camogie SemiFinal

Dicksboro 2-13 Loughgiel Shamrocks 1-10 A two-goal salvo from Asha McHardy coupled with a seven-point haul from County star Aoife Prendergast ensured that the first time Leinster Champions would contest this year’s All-Ireland senior final, where they will face the formidable challenge of Connacht kingpins, Sarsfields who are on the brink of three national titles on the bounce. With Dicksboro two points to the good early on, Ulster champions Loughgiel struck for a major, courtesy of Saffron’s star Caitrin Dobbin. Last year’s beaten AllIreland finalists stepped up the pace and opened up a 5-point lead at the interval, thanks to points from Roisin McCormick and goal scorer Dobbin. Donal Carroll’s charges came out of the blocks quickly after the interval and had raised their first green flag of the game inside the opening 2 minutes. Asha McHardy took a fine pass from Orla Hanrick before striding forward and unleashing her shot past Eimear Boyle in the Shamrocks goal. The Palmerstown outfit hit two further quickfire points via McHardy and Prendergast to deadlock matters. It was a tightly contested affair thereafter, but quality points from Jenny Clifford and former Kilkenny All-Ireland winning captain Aoife Prendergast edged the Noresiders ahead before POTM McHardy put on the burners before striking her second major in injury time to remove any element of doubt about the result. Amy Clifford rifled over the final point to cement the victory and start the post-match celebrations! Dicksboro will now prepare for an All-Ireland senior decider which will take place on December 17th at Croke Park as part of a double header along with the intermediate final. If anyone can stop the Sarsfields train – it’s the ‘Boro! Scorers for Dicksboro: A McHardy (2-1), A Prenderghast (0-7, 6fs, 1pen), R Dowling, A Clifford (0-2 each), J Clifford (0-1). Scorers for Loughgiel Shamrocks: C Dobbin (1-3), R McCormick (0-5, 4 fs), A Boyle, A Lynn (0-1 each). Dicksboro: K Maher; J Cass, T Clifford, K Byrne, N Phelan, C Dowling, C Phelan, C O’Shea, A O’Gorman, A McHardy, A Clifford, R Dowling, A Prendergast, O Hanrick, J Clifford capt. Subs: L Gahan for C O’Shea (HT), R Kelly for O Hanrick (48). Loughgiel Shamrocks: E Boyle,

Goal Getter! Asha McHardy

Asha shines in Ashbourne!

‘Boro Croker bound to face three-in-a-row chasing Sarsfields Aoife Prendergast battles with Amy Boyle

C Campbell, Ciara Laverty, M Lynn, E McFadden, C Boyle, C McKillop, A Boyle, L McNaughton, Christine Laverty capt, A Connolly, R McCormick, C Dobbin, A Lynn, O

Katie Byrne is challenged by Annie Lynn

Laverty. Subs: K McKillop for O Laverty (48), M McGarry for C Boyle (57), U McNaughton for A Connolly (58). Referee: J Heffernan (Wexford)

Aobha O’Gorman celebrates with Caoimhe Dowling after the game

Jenny Clifford keeps Emma McFadden at bay

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

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Hurlng matters - Review

Sport

O’Loughlins Celebrate

BY NIALL SHERRY SPORTS EDITOR SPORTSEDITOR@KILKENNYOBSERVER.IE

Leinster GAA AIB Senior Club Hurling Championship Final

Páirc an Chrócaigh, Saturday 2nd December O’Loughlin Gaels 0-22 Na Fianna 1-18

Sixty minutes showing on the clock, the sides are level in Croke Park. The Kilkenny champions are awarded a free out on the right. Step forward veteran forward and placed ball specialist Mark Bergin. Nerves of steel, the Loughs captain goes through his normal free taking routine and dissects the Na Fianna posts to put his beloved club one point ahead as the games enters stoppage time. The St Johns Park warriors battle on and secure the victory, their third O’Neill Cup. O’Loughlin Gaels Leinster Senior Club Hurling Champions 2023. What an ending to a pulsating, end-to-end provincial decider. Brian Hogan’s men will have enjoyed the past week, celebrating their latest title and their focus will now turn to an All-Ireland semi-final clash next weekend against Ulster’s finest, Cushendall Ruairi Ogs The game started quickly, Loughs Owen Wall’s early pointed effort striking the post after just 13 seconds. From the restart, the Dublin champions worked the sliotar to Sean Currie who made no mistake in opening the scoring in the 2023 Leinster Final. Then the first big goal scoring opportunity. The ball was passed to Eoin O’Shea who burst through the middle of the Na Fianna defence before passing to Sean Bolger on his left. The lively corner-forward cut inside and unleashed his shot past the advancing keeper, Jonathan Treacy. Luckily for the Capital club, experienced defender Kevin Burke had read the danger and positioned himself on the goal line which allowed him to divert the ball away from danger. The Noresiders were level on four minutes following some nice play involving Conor Heary, Eoin O’Shea and Sean Bolger, which resulted in the latter being fouled. Mark Bergin converted what would be the first of nine placed ball and the opener of his 11-point tally. The game was then held up briefly following a nasty-looking collision between Owen Wall and Jack Nolan, with both players requiring treatment from the medical staff. Thankfully, both dusted themselves down and were able to continue. One of the Loughs County contingent, Paddy Deegan then struck over a monstrous effort from deep inside his own half for what was to be the first of the centre-back’s 5-point tally. Owen wall was like a jack-in-the-

Kings of Leinster! Hogan’s heroes dig deep to see off Na Fianna

box popping up everywhere, using his place and clever movement to draw defenders out of their natural habitat and in doing so, creating space for others around him. Wall was then fouled, and Mark Bergin did the rest. Bergin’s nemesis on the Na Fianna team, Colin Currie then fired over a placed ball following a foul by Deegan on AJ Murphy, who like Owen Wall was constantly on the move and putting his marker Huw Lawlor through his paces. O’Loughlin’s captain Bergin then took a smart pass from Conor Heary and sent over a glorious score from play. Former Limerick player Bryan Ryan then rifled over a cracking point from about ‘65 out to reduce the Kilkenny sides lead to the bare minimum. The sides were level again in the 12th minute, thanks to another free from Colin Currie after Jordan Molloy had fouled AJ Murphy. The Hebron Road side then hit four scores without reply, a trio of placed balls for Mark Bergin and a well worked point from Cian Loy who was nicely set up by Sean Bolger. During this spell two Na Fianna players, Liam Rushe and Bryan Ryan were shown yellow cards by Westmeath whistler, Caymon Flynn, who was mostly anonymous – a brilliant sign in the modern game. O’Loughlin’s were now four ahead with about ten minutes of the first half remaining, but their Mobhi Road opponents were not for lying down and hit back with three scores of their own, courtesy of a lovely John Tierney strike and a brace of free’s from Colin Currie. There was also a decent goal

scoring chance for Micheal Murphy who looked certain to burst the net but was denied by a fulllength dive by Jordan Molloy. The first change of the game arrived on 26 minutes when Brian Hogan replaced Paddy Butler with Luke Hogan. Sean Bolger, who was looking sharp, was then fouled and Bergin split the posts with another free opportunity. Once again, Na Fianna responded well and struck over another free of their own via Colin Currie. David Fogarty then gave a nice pass to Paddy Deegan who rifled over another lovely effort. The Dublin side were winning the middle third battle, and this was highlighted when Treaty man, Bryan Ryan notched his second point of the game. There was still time for one further score in the opening period, and it came from the hurl of Jack Nolan who pointed after more great work by Owen Wall to leave the interval score, O’Loughlin’s 0-11, Na Fianna 0-9. The Dublin side’s manager Niall Ó Ceallacháin must have reminded his charges that they had plenty more to give, as they came out showing much more intensity and physicality after the break. An early indiscretion by Jack Nolan was

Paddy Deegan Gets in his tackle on Sean Currie

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

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Hurling matters - Review Owen Wall determined to get past Conor Mc Hugh

punished by Colin Currie and the Na Fianna man added a quality strike from play straight away following a turnover. The Noresiders opened their account in the second half, thanks to a nice point from David Fogarty after Conor Heary set him up. Na Fianna’s Ryan’s, Sean and Bryan combined for the latter to tag on his third of the day. With the sides deadlocked again, every scoring opportunity was vital, and the everreliable Paddy

Deegan notched his third point after another assist by Owen Wall. Then came the game’s only major, and it would be a Na Fianna one. Kevin Burke burst out of defence and passed to John Tierney who slipped the sliotar to Colin Currie. The No.13 had the presence of mind to offload to his brother Sean who stepped inside Huw Lawlor before striking an unstoppable shot past Stephen Murphy in the Lough goal. The Dublin champions now lead by 2 points, the game was well and truly on. Brian Hogan’s men needed to dampen the Dubs spirit quickly, and from the restart, Conor Heary fired over a nice score from the middle of the park, exactly the response that was needed. Fresh from his assist for his side’s goal, Colin Currie then popped over another free before two scores from Mark Bergin got the Kilkenny side back on level terms after 43 minutes of action at Croker. Colin Currie then got the chance to notch his 8th point of the day and he duly obliged before AJ Murphy fired over a sweet point to restore the Glasnevin sides

2-point lead. Jordan Molloy then picked up possession from deep and as he went to strike the ball forward, his hurl broke under the challenge, but the wing back had the presence of mind to retain the sliotar and give a hand pass to the supporting Paddy Deegan who steadied himself before striking over his 4th point of the game from his centre back position, incredible. The Loughs then sent on Conor Kelly for the hard-working Cian Loy as they sought to inject some fresh legs into their side for the final thirteen minutes or so. Na Fianna went on their next attack and thankfully it was halted by Huw Lawlor, who saw yellow for his trouble, for a high challenge on AJ Murphy. Point number nine in the bag for Colin Currie from the resulting free. David Fogarty and Ciaran Stacey engage in a battle for Possession

The St Johns Park side’s action man, Paddy Deegan was then stopped in his tracks, illegally, and his captain slotted the placed ball from centre field to leave just one between the sides. Then arguably, the finest point of the game arrived. The rampaging Paddy Deegan then drove forward again and while held up, he managed to give a pass in the direction of his No. 5, David Fogarty, tight to the Hogan Stand sideline. The young wing back, one of the stars of O’Loughlin’s season to date, flicked up the ball and struck over an incredible score, one that brought the loughs bench to their feet. The sides were deadlocked again. No sooner had those celebrating Fogarty’s score sat down than Na Fianna scorer-in-chief, Colin Currie struck an equally stunning score from the same sideline. Currie then found his way into the referee’s notebook following a stick to the helmet of Huw Lawlor. A Yellow card for Colin and a new helmet for Huw! More fresh legs for the Loughs arrived in the form of Jamie Ryan who replaced Jack Nolan for the final six minutes. Na Fianna then were trying to play their way out of defence under the Hogan Stand, but some great battling by the Kilkenny city side saw Sean Bolger turnover the ball and give a nice pass to Paddy Deegan, who composed himself before striking over his 5th point play from play, again from distance. All square again, but Niall Ó Ceallacháin’s side attacked again and edged ahead thanks to a lovely point from the impressive AJ Murphy, who on this performance could be a county starter next season. With time running out, Brian Hogan needed his charges to go to the well again, just like they did in the county final against Shamrocks Ballyhale. Step forward sub, Luke Hogan. Eoin O’Shea emerged from a little bit of a ruck and flicked the ball to Conor Kelly. Kelly Scanned for options and sent a searching pass

towards fellow sub Luke Hogan. Despite not collecting the ball first time, Hogan tried again and in doing so gave himself the space and angle to fire over a sweet point to tie matters up once more. Could these two battling teams be separated? Following a long Na Fianna restart, Micheal Murphy was turned over and the ball was collected by Huw Lawlor who sent a booming pass down the sideline towards the ever-running Owen Wall. The clever Wall flicked the sliotar inside, towards his captain but was upended by Kevin Burke, referee Caymon Flynn. Cometh the hour, cometh Mark Bergin. Full-time score in the 2023 Leinster Senior Club Hurling Championship, O’Loughlin Gaels 0-22, Na Fianna 1-18. Scorers for O’Loughlin Gaels: Mark Bergin 0-11 (0-9f), Paddy Deegan 0-5, David Fogarty 0-2, Cian Loy 0-1, Jack Nolan 0-1, Conor Heary 0-1, Luke Hogan 0-1. Scorers for Na Fianna: Colin Currie 0-11 (0-9f), Sean Currie 1-1, Brian Ryan 0-3, AJ Murphy 0-2, John Tierney 0-1. O’LOUGHLIN GAELS: Stephen Murphy; Tony Forristal, Huw Lawlor, Mikey Butler; David Fogarty, Paddy Deegan, Jordan Molloy; Jack Nolan, Cian Loy; Conor Heary, Mark Bergin, Eoin O’Shea; Paddy Butler, Owen Wall, Sean Bolger. Subs: Luke Hogan for Paddy Butler (26), Conor Kelly for Loy (49), Jamie Ryan for Nolan (54). NA FIANNA: Jonathan Treacy; Sean Burke, Conor McHugh, Diarmuid Clerkin; Paul O’Dea, Liam Rushe, Kevin Burke; Brian Ryan, Peter Feeney; John Tierney, Micheal Murphy, Sean Currie; Ciaran Stacey, AJ Murphy, Colin Currie. Subs: Donal Ryan for O’Dea (13), Shane Barrett for Feeney (46), Sean Baxter for Stacey (53), Gavin King for Tierney (60). Referee: Caymon Flynn (Westmeath).

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

Planning notices

Planning notices KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Shane Browner, wish to apply to Kilkenny County Council for Retention Planning Permission to indefinitely retain the existing shed and to indefinitely retain the change of use of the shed as a vehicle repair garage and all associated works at Corluddy, Mooncoin, 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

I, Tom Walton Agri. Ltd. intend to apply to Kilkenny County Council for full planning permission to erect a calf house with small store area, drafting/return concrete yards including a soiled water storage tank & ancillary concrete works on my lands at Cappahayden, 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, Johns Street, Kilkenny during its public opening hours 9am-1pm and 2pm-4pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the fee prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: Tom Walton Agri. Ltd.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

NOTICE OF FURTHER INFORMATION/REVISED PLANS. Significant Further information has been furnished to Kilkenny County Council, under Planning Reference Number 2360406 on behalf of Michele Culleton. The development applied for consisted of: Planning permission for: proposed part single storey part dormer bungalow dwelling, vehicular entrance with driveway, borewell, waste water treatment system, storm water soakaways and all associated site works at Oldcourt, Templeorum, Piltown, Co. Kilkenny. Significant Further Information/Revised Plans have been furnished to the Planning Authority in respect of this proposed development, and are available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the Offices of the Planning Authority County Hall, John Street, Kilkenny, during its public opening hours 9.00 am to 1.00 pm and 2.00pm to 4.00pm Monday to Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the significant further information / revised plans may be made in writing to the Planning Authority within a period of two weeks from the date of receipt of the revised public notices. A submission or observation must be accompanied by the prescribed fee of €20, except in the case of a person or body who has already made a submission or observation and such submission or observation will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to, or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

Planning permission is sought by Patrick and Joan Farrell to construct a new extension to the side of existing Dwelling House, connect to existing sewage treatment unit and all associated site development works at Scart, Dungarvan, 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. Signed: Gittens Murray Architects Ltd., No. 5 William Street, Kilkenny. Tel No: 056-7753933. web:www.gmarch.net

KILKENNY COUNTY COUNCIL

We, John and Georgina Murphy, intend to apply for Planning Permission for a). renovations to existing disused agricultural stone buildings and for change of use to tourist accommodation to include 4 individually accessed dwellings comprising of 3 no. 2-bed houses and 1 no. 3-bed houses in Building 1 and 2 no. 2-bed houses in Building 2, b). renovation of existing stone building for use as storage shed, c). construction of 1 no all weather multi court pitch and 1 no. all weather tennis court and renovation of existing stone building between courts, d).improvements to existing site entrances, e). installation of secondary wastewater treatment system and polishing filter, f). provision of permeably paved car-parking spaces, g). bin storage stations, h). improvement to landscaping and site boundaries and all ancillary site and other works at Woodstock, Inistioge, Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny. This application relates to development which comprises of the carrying out of works to buildings within the curtilage of a protected structure. 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 9.00 a.m. - 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. - 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application.The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

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Memoriams / Miracle Prayers

JOAN O’BRENNAN ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AND 1ST ANNIVERSARY

SR. MARGARET KAVANAGH 1ST ANNIVERSARY

Joan O’Brennan Pottlerath, Kilmanagh Co. Kilkenny.

In loving memory of Sr. Margaret Kavanagh, late of Byrnesgrove, Ballyragget, Co. Kilkenny, who died on 7th December 2022.

Joan’s husband Wilf, brother Joe, sisters Rita and Maura, nieces and nephews would like to thank most sincerely those who sympathised with us on Joan’s sad passing Thank you to all who attended the reposal, removal and burial and also those who sent Mass cards and floral tributes. Thank you to the following, Fr. Taylor, John Keane Chaplin and servers, the emergency services who attended, the stewards from Graigue Ballycallan G.A.A Club for their traffic management and parking facilities. A special word of thanks to Frances Ryan for the lovely music input. Thanks to Dermot Ronan, Funeral Directors, Ballingarry, whose professionalism and kindness and attention to every detail meant so much to all of us, also those who prepared the grave in such terrible weather conditions. A special word of gratitude to the Care Staff who looked after Joan, special thanks to Helen, also Dr. Gerard Lynch and staff from Newpark Medical Centre whose care, attention and compassion was outstanding for many years and we would also like to thank McCauley’s Pharmacy, High Street, Kilkenny. As it would be impossible to thank individually all those whose kindness brought such comfort to us, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude and as a token of our sincere appreciation. Joan’s 1st Anniversary Mass will be held in Our Lady Queen of Peace Church, Kilmanagh on Saturday, 9th December at 6.30pm.

It broke our hearts to lose you You did not go alone For part of us went with you The day God called you home You left us lovely memories Your love is still our guide And we are very thankful That you are by our side

The Miracle Prayer

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

The Miracle Prayer

Our Lady of Knock pray for her Always remembered and sadly missed by your bother Bryan, sisters-in-law Mary and Brenda, extended family and friends. Anniversary Mass on Sunday, 10th December at 10.30am in St.Patrick’s Church, Ballyragget, Co. Kilkenny.

The Miracle Prayer

a Prayer to the Blessed Virgin (never known to fail).

O most beautiful flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful vine, Splendour of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, O Star of the sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O Holy Mary Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to grant my request. (Please state request). There are none that can withstand your power. O show me herein you are my Mother. I place this cause in your hands (three times). Thank you for your mercy towards me and mine. Amen. This prayer must be said for three days and after this the request will be granted. This prayer must be published immediately. H.H.

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

Classifieds Motors

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

The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023

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Classifieds Motors

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The Kilkenny Observer Friday 08 December 2023