Dungarvan observer 6 1 2017 edition by Dungarvan Observer

DUNGARVAN

OBSERVER Vol. 104

WATERFORD ALL-IRELAND U21 VICTORY BANQUET SPORTS SECTION

Friday, 6th January, 2017

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‘Boom’ in local trade during Christmas period RETAIL trade around Dungarvan during the Christmas period was ‘booming’ with reports that spending was up across the board, while the Chamber reported over €400,000 in Christmas Voucher sales, writes Paul Mooney. Initial indications are that the main spend by consumers in

Dungarvan was on two days 23rd and 24th December which overtook the combined income of previous weeks. The streets and shops around town were noticeably busier in the run-up to Christmas, than in previous years, evidenced by packed out car parks, including Scanlon’s Yard and the multistorey car parks.

THINKING OF BUYING, SELLING OR LETTING? CONTACT SHERRY FITZGERALD REYNOLDS TODAY

The news will be very welcome by retailers around town who have suffered severely since the economic crash and continue to suffer through the austerity years and then the difficulties caused by the revamp of Grattan Square. However, Grattan Square was ready for the festive period, and there were no issues reported

with parking in the Square during Christmas. CEO of Dungarvan and West Waterford Chamber, Jenny Beresford, said the civic space created on Grattan Square “worked a dream” during the festive period. “There was so much entertainment on the civic space, that it created a fantastic atmosphere,”

said Ms. Beresford, speaking to the Dungarvan Observer. She pointed out that Dungarvan Aglow festival was a resounding success, with huge support from sponsors, as well as from all those who attended events, with many messages of support on their Facebook page. Continued on page 2

The Biggest

Wedding Event of the Year

January

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2016 in review

The new 1916 commemorative monument in Gibbons Town Park, at The Lookout, Dungarvan. SEE PAGES 18 & 19 [David Clynch Photography]

E. reservations@parkhoteldungarvan.com W. www.flynnhotels.com

pages 20–23

Free eye test voucher We’ll give you a full eye test FREE Dungarvan leading the way with shared space concept in Ireland pages 24–25

Valid for one test on or before 31 March 2017. Present voucher at time of test. Cannot be exchanged for cash, used with other vouchers or redeemed by customers already entitled to a free PRSI or Medical Card eye test funded by the Department of Social Protection or HSE. Excludes driving sight test reports. One per person, at named Specsavers stores only.

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NEWS

Yo u r Observer S O Inside this week … N DUNGARVA

@DungarvanO bserv

BSERVERde Friday, 6th January,

Vol. 104

SOUTH-EAST CAR & VAN HIRE

NISSAN DUNGARVAN for Van Call us first and Car Hire

WATERFORD ALL-IRELAND U21 VICTORY BANQUET SECTION

Friday, 6th January,

€2.00

2017

sport@dungarvano bserver.ie

2017

al tra ‘Boom’ in loctm as period during Chris

€2,600 RAISED AT ST. STEPHEN’S DAY JOLLY JAUNT

speaking toPage 3 said Ms. Beresford, the Square durObserver. with parking in the Dungarvan out that be very welThe news will She pointed town ing Christmas. and West was a 058 44888 was on two days Aglow festival by retailers around CEO of Dungarvan rhire.com around Dungarvan 24th December - comehave suffered severely since Waterford Chamber, Jenny Dungarvan success, with huge info@southeastca trade who space resounding rhire.com RETAIL the 23rd and the combined the economic crash and continue Beresford, said the civic as well as www.southeastca during Square support from sponsors, which overtook weeks. Dungarvan the austerity on Grattan was ‘boomattended to suffer through Christmas periodthat spending income of previous difficulties created a dream” during the from all those who shops around and then the “worked messages of The streets and ing’ with reports board, while busier in years by the revamp of Grattan events, with many the page. festive period. town were noticeably in caused was up across much enter- support on their Facebook reported over the run-up to Christmas, than “There was so Square. that page 2 the Chamber Square was Christmas evidenced by on the civic space, Continued on in However, Grattan and tainment fantastic atmosphere,” previous years, €400,000 parks, including ready for the festive period, writes Paul it created a packed out car Voucher sales, and the multi- there were no issues reported Scanlon’s Yard Mooney. are that the storey car parks. Initial indications Call to Elizabeth consumers in by spend main for her consistent customer care and advice

as Prices from as little day €24.99 per

PORT

Vol. 104

SPORTS

REMEMBERING 1981 ON THE GAA SCENE IN THE DEISE

Pages 6 to 11

BALLYDUFF UPPER WINS MIKE QUIRKE CUP

Ballyduff Upper

1-14; An Ghaeltacht

Page 12

1-8.

IRISH KIDNEY ASSOCIATION RUN/WALK

Hundreds turn out for Greenway event

Page 20

The Biggest

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January

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9 Please go to page for further details

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Town Park, at monument in Gibbons 19 [David Clynch Photography] The new 1916 commemorative SEE PAGES 18 & The Lookout, Dungarvan.

2016 in review

E. reservations@p ls.com W. www.flynnhote

t voucher Free eye tes

pages 20–23

for cash, FREE be exchanged a full eye test of test. Cannot eye test voucher at time or Medical Card to a free PRSI March 2017. Present person, already entitled on or before 31 reports. One per by customers Valid for one test driving sight test vouchers or redeemed or HSE. Excludes used with other Social Protection Department of funded by the stores only. at named Specsavers

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the Dungarvan leading way with shared space concept in Ireland

Dungarvan 46

pages 24–25

058 43513 Mary Street. Tel

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Waterford All-Ireland U-21 Park Hotel, Sunday, Victory Banquet – 1st January, 2017. Waterford U-21 with joint captains manager Sean Power pictured Patrick Curran and and Austin Gleeson.Adam Farrell [Noel Browne]

Waterford All-Irel and U-21 Victory Banquet SEE PAGES 17, 18

& 19

SECTIONS .........................……………………………………... PAGES News .............................…………..……………………………….. 1–27 Classifieds ..........................…..……………………………... 28–30 Letters ..........................…..………………………………………….. 31 Kilmeaden Co-op Centenary ……………………………... 32-33 County News ...........………….……………………………….. 34-46 Schools ............................................................…………... 47-53 Obituary .……….……..................…………………......……… 54-55 Farming .....................………….……………………………….. 56-59 Entertainment ........………….……………………………….. 60-63 Déise Newsround ..............……………………………………….. 64 Includes your 24-page Sports pull-out

News on the move: Web: www.dungarvanobserver.ie Find us on Twitter: @DungarvanObserv Like us on Facebook: Dungarvan Observer

WEATHER OUTLOOK FORECAST for Thurs/Friday – It looks set to be predominantly cloudy on Thursday with occasional drizzle. Persistent rain is expected to develop through the evening. Overnight it is likely to remain wet with further rain.There will be a moderate, locally fresh southwesterly wind. A cool start but turning milder with maximum temperatures by evening reaching 10 or 11 degrees. Staying mild overnight with lows of 8 or 9 degrees. Friday is expected to be rather cloudy and wet with spells of rain at times and misty with possibly some fog on the coast.Very mild with afternoon maxima of 11 or 12 degrees. Staying damp overnight with further rain or drizzle and with the risk of fog forming locally. Lowest temperatures of 7 to 9 degrees. Forecast for Saturday/Sunday – Current indications suggest it will be a relatively mild this weekend with light winds and variable amounts of cloud. There will be good dry periods and only occasional drizzle or light rain. However, mist and fog will form at times, particularly along the coast. Afternoon maxima will generally range from 9 to 12 degrees with overnight temperatures likely to stay above freezing. Outlook (Monday/Wednesday) – Into the early days of next week a west or north-westerly flow looks set to become dominant. There will be occasional spells of rain but it will be dry much of the time. Winds will be generally light or moderate with temperatures close to or above the seasonal average.

WED 8º

THUR 11º

FRI 12º

‘Boom’ in local trade during Christmas period

SAT 12º

SUN 12º

FROM FRONT PAGE “The promotional video for Dungarvan Aglow went viral, with over 58,000 views,” said Ms. Beresford. There were also messages of praise and support from locals and visitors to the town on the Christmas lights throughout Abbeyside and Dungarvan. The festival received national media attention, with a feature on RTÉ’s Nationwide and special mention in several national newspapers. “The weather was also helpful this year, as it was dry, so people could get out and about. It all really helped to create a welcoming environment to the town during Christmas.” She added: “Dungarvan Aglow really ‘nailed it’. But we will be carrying out research on what worked, what didn’t and what the trends are telling us, in preparation for Dungarvan Aglow next Christmas”. Dungarvan also received an influx of visitors over the Christmas break thanks to the Waterford Greenway. Huge crowds of people were noted using the Greenway with all the car parks full between Christmas and New Year’s Day, as children and adults with new bikes and scooters took advantage of the exceptional amenity. Dungarvan and West Waterford Chamber reported that they sold over €400,000 in their Christmas Shopping Vouchers scheme - a phenomenal amount of money which beats all previous sales records. The vouchers scheme helps to retain money in Dungarvan and since the initiative began in 2006, it has helped to retain a combined €2.1m over the last ten years. The vouchers can be used in over 100 local businesses for various products and services and helps to support the local community by keeping business local which in turn supports local jobs.

Five New Year’s Day babies in Waterford WHILE Dublin laid claim to the first baby born on New Year’s Day, at one second past midnight at the Rotunda Hospital, families around Waterford and the South East were also celebrating new arrivals on New Year’s Day. Five babies were born on New Year’s Day at University Hospital Waterford - four girls and one boy. The first arrived at 02.20 a.m. and the fifth baby was born at 7.26 p.m. There were no Christmas babies at University Hospital Waterford. There were four babies born at Wexford General Hospital on New Year’s Day, with the first arriving at 12.23 a.m., followed by another at 12.44 a.m., the third baby at 01.09 a.m. and the last baby at 03.13 a.m.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

Dungarvan Tourist Office welcomes over 10k visitors in 2016 DUNGARVAN Tourist Office welcomed over 10,000 visitors through their doors in 2016! This milestone has never been reached before and is very encouraging. Being involved in so many events such as the Waterford Festival of Food, Hallowe’en, Dungarvan Aglow, selling tickets for many performances in the Town Hall Theatre and other venues, selling fishing licenses and merchandise, were important reasons why traffic to the office was up on other years. Obviously, for the main part, disseminating valuable information to tourists and locals about what there is to do in Dungarvan, the county and beyond. “We know there is so much more potential and we are ready and waiting for the increase in

numbers the Waterford Greenway will deliver in particular following its official opening later this year,” said Jennifer Foley, Tourist Office Administrator. “Already one of the most common requests by visitors to the Tourist Office is information on the Greenway and we have evidence that the appeal of the Greenway has already attracted many over night visitors to the area.” Jenny Beresford,Tourist Office Manager said: “We are very excited about the future and are sure the Waterford Greenway is the best possible sales tool we have as a combined county and can utilise to attract visitors to the area like we have never seen before”. Also, opening six days a week most months, this accessibility combined with it’s Main Street

location has helped to increase numbers. Dungarvan Tourist Office opens Saturdays, Bank Holidays, special occasion Sundays such as Waterford Festival of Food / Sean Kelly Tour of Waterford and throughout lunch daily. The Tourist Office team are always delighted to help with enquiries from visitors and locals, either face to face or via email and text. Why not drop in for a visit today or contact the office to find out more about all the wonderful things Waterford has to offer. To contact Dungarvan Tourist Office, call in to Main Street or phone: 058 41741. You can email the Tourist Office at info@dungarvantourism.com or visit them on their Facebook page www.facebook.com/dungarvantourism.

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Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

New water source for Clonea Power ‘still on schedule’ WORKS to provide Clonea Power with a new water source next year are still on schedule, the recent meeting of Comeragh Municipal District Council was told. Cllr. Declan Clune said he was trying to get an update on the issue for the last six to seven weeks, but Irish Water “haven’t been forthcoming”. He said the last communication from Irish Water he received was back in August, which stated that the tender would issue by the end of September and awarded by the fourth

quarter of 2016, with construction due to start in the first quarter of 2017. “Is there any issues and is it still going ahead on schedule, because Irish Water are not responding to me,” said Cllr. Clune. Director of Services, Fergus Galvin said as far as he knew, it was on target and work to provide Clonea Power with a new water source was “going ahead on schedule”. “I’ll talk with Irish Water and if there is a delay I will come back to you, but as far as we are concerned, it is on target,” reassured

Mr. Galvin. Last November, Cllr. Seanie Power revealed to the Dungarvan Observer that a timescale of works will see Clonea Power and four other locations (Clonea O’Sullivan, Monadiha, Whitestown and Feddans) get a new 9.1 km water mains which will connect those areas to the Rathgormack water supply, providing a new source of high quality, potable drinking water for the long suffering residents of those areas.

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Fews National School – additional accommodation approval SENATOR Paudie Coffey welcomes funding approval for Few NS – Having worked with the Board of Management of Fews National school over the past year I’m delighted to have been notified by the Minister for Education, Richard Bruton TD that the school has now been approved for an additional and new 80msq classroom, ensuite and WC facilities for assisted users. Despite being a rural school Fews NS enjoys strong enrolment numbers and space for classrooms had become a real challenge for the school - I’m glad this is now being resolved with this grant approval. I am looking forward to seeing building works get underway early in 2017.

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Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

Community shocked over death at motorsport event THE wider community in County Waterford was stunned and saddened to learn of the death of a young Stradbally woman in a motorsport crash on St. Stephen’s Day. Mairead Darcy, from Ballyvooney, Stradbally, was killed when the vehicle she was

driving crashed during the ladies’ race event at the annual St. Stephen’s Day Demolition Derby at Waterford Raceway, Killineen, the Pike, Dungarvan. Emergency services attended the scene, assisted by race marshalls, club stewards, Irish Red Cross, Gardaí and other stock car drivers. Gardaí are investigating the

crash. Mairead, who had a huge love and passion for motorsport and was fondly known as #368 at Waterford Raceway, was also the secretary of the Club. Waterford Raceway extended its deepest sympathies to Mairead’s family, her heartbroken parents Ray and Anne, sister Triona, brothers John and

Raymond, brother-in-law Ambrose, uncles, aunts and a wide circle of friends. Waterford Raceway posted a heartfelt tribute to Mairead on their Facebook page, saying she loved motorsport “and lived for each and every race day, she was the life and soul of the club, always smiling, always bubbly, so kind and forever

beautiful”. “Mairead has been taken from us too soon and no words can describe how much we will miss her. She may have driven her final race with us but #368 Mairead D’Arcy will never be forgotten.” Both the Darcy family and Waterford Raceway acknowledged all the tributes, generos-

ity and kindness from relatives, the community, friends, neighbours and motor sport fraternity and they paid tribute to the emergency services who responded on the day. Following Funeral Mass at the Holy Cross Church, Stradbally, last Friday, 30th December, burial took place in the adjoining cemetery.

Council confident of funding early in New Year for Tallow Link Road work WATERFORD Council is “confident” that a funding allocation will be made very early in the New Year to commence work on the Tallow Link Road. At the recent meeting of the Plenary Council, Cllr. John Pratt raised concern about the matter

after seeing a report which stated that ‘due to funding constraints this project is currently on hold’. Cllr. Pratt said he was hopeful of getting the process ‘over the line’, as completion of the road is a “big issue for Tallow and the area”.

Director of Services, Fergus Galvin, said he discussed the matter with senior officials in the Department and he would be “confident that we will get an allocation (of funding) very early in the New Year that will allow us to go ahead with it”. Mr. Galvin added that the Council has already

tendered the work and a contractor has been appointed and ready to go, as soon as the green light is given by the Department in relation to funding. “Then we’ll be out there within a matter of weeks at that stage,” Mr. Galvin said.

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Council to tackle scourge of dog fouling in Stradbally WATERFORD Council will take action to detect persons who are allowing their dog to foul a footpath going from Stradbally to the local school. At the recent meeting of Comeragh Municipal District Council, Cllr. Liam Brazil described the disgraceful behaviour of some culprit(s) who are bringing their dogs for a walk very early in the morning along the footpath from the village to the school, and allowing their dog to foul the pavement and not cleaning up after their animal. “It is happening on a regular

basis now, very early in the morning,” Cllr. Brazil said. “It is a disgrace because children are going to school and the footpath is the only amenity they have. It is so bad people are walking on the road to avoid it,” he said. Cllr. Brazil asked the Council to immediately tackle the problem and identify the culprit(s) who are allowing their dogs to foul the footpath. Dog owners who fail to ‘scoop the poop’ will see themselves slapped with a €150 fine, and prosecution if that fine is not

paid. Director of Services, Fergus Galvin vowed to send Environmental officers to the location to monitor the situation and apprehend the culprit(s). He also committed to erecting extra signage in the area warning people about failing to clean up after their dogs. Members of the public who wish to report dog fouling and dog owners who fail to clean up after their dog can contact the Council’s Environment Section on 0761-10-20-20.

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NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

Operation Transformation at Lloyds Pharmacy and Dungarvan Shopping Centre ITS Operation Transformation launch time with Lloyds Pharmacy employee Marie Lannen who was recently shortlisted to appear on the popular RTE Operation Transformation programme and whose progress will be closely monitored over the next eight weeks as she begins her quest to lose weight and get fitter. Marie and Lloyds will join forces with other units in Dungarvan Shopping Centre to eat better, smarter foods and follow the dietary plans as set out by the Butchers Block and Ivan's Cafe who will have weekly menus as guide lines to improve her nutrition, in addition John Dempsey of Sportsavers will launch a Couch to 5k running programme over the eight week period to improve Marie's core and physical fitness. Lynch's greengrocers will have on offer a range of special smoothies full of nutrition's on a weekly basis which will form a core part of Marie's dietary programme. Marie will then be weighted on a weekly basis in the Shopping Centre where healthy food menus will be rolled out to ensure maximum returns in terms of weight loss and an increase in cardo vascular fitness. Details of the weekly weight in locations and menus as well as the results from the Couch to 5k runs will be available on Facebook at Lloyds Pharmacy and Dungarvan Shopping Centre for the duration of the eight week programme. So join us on January 11th next at Lloyds Pharmacy for Ann-Marie's first weight in and pick up all the info and assistance you need to help you get fitter and lose weight in a sustainable manner and help Marie achieve her goal as part of the RTE Operation Transformation programme with Lloyds Pharmacy and Dungarvan Shopping Centre.

THE Irish Government has awarded An Bonn Comórtha Céad Bliain 1916 (The 1916 Centenary Commemorative Medal) to all serving members of the Irish Defence Forces as a token of its appreciation for the selfless service of the volunteer soldiers, sailors and aircrew of Óglaigh na hÉireann, who have served Ireland and the Irish people since the foundation of the State. The peace-keepers of the 54 Infantry Group who are currently serving in the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in the Golan Heights, on the border between Israel and Syria, were recently presented with their medals by Brigadier General Peter O'Halloran, Assistant Chief of Staff of Óglaigh na hÉireann, and H.E. Miss Alison Kelly, Irish Ambassador to the State of Israel. Pictured are the peace-keepers from Waterford who recently received The 1916 Centenary Commemorative Medal in the Golan Heights: (Left to Right) Tpr. Philip O'Keeffe (Lismore), Cpl. Tony Walsh (Aglish), Fr. Paul F. Murphy (Waterford & Lismore Diocese), Lt. Grainne Kenneally (Araglen), Capt. Dr. Patrick Kelly (Waterford), Cpl. Johnny O'Donnell (Dungarvan) and Tpr. Keith Landers (Cappoquin).

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

Choice Based Letting Scheme proving to be successful for Waterford Council THE new ‘Choice Based Letting Scheme’ which is being piloted in Waterford is proving to be successful. Cllr. Liam Brazil sought an update at the recent meeting of Comeragh Municipal District Council, on the scheme. Sinead Breathnach, Housing Administrative Officer, revealed that so far, there have been over 700 people interested in houses the Council has advertised under the scheme. Cllr. Brazil queried a particular Council house in Touraneena and whether there had been much interest in it before the scheme. Ms. Breathnach replied that demand may not have been there in certain areas. “But whether the demand is

there or not, we will still advertise the houses, because we hope to get to the stage where we’ll have a majority of our houses advertised in the scheme,” said Ms. Breathnach. She said that the Council will hold back special houses for the elderly and disabled. Cllr. Brazil questioned if there was local interest in a particular house, would they come before others who would not be from the area? Ms. Breathnach said the scheme “gets rid of all boundaries”, and so local people won’t be favoured over people from other areas. “We look at who is longest on the housing list, their suitability, etc,” she said. Cllr. Michael J. O’Ryan said

his problem with the scheme is that people may be applying ‘blindly’ for houses which may be to the detriment of local people. “There could be people in the city applying for a house in Touraneena, and vice-versa, with no intention of ever getting it,” Cllr. O’Ryan said. “I would hate to think that someone locally who had their heart set on a house would be excluded from receiving a house in their own area. This is something we could look at if the pilot scheme is going to be extended.” Agreeing, Cllr. Seanie Power said perhaps areas should be ringfenced. “It is very disheartening for a local person looking for a house locally and they don’t get it,” he

‘Significant re-investment’ will be needed in playgrounds COUNCILLORS will have to make a budget decision in due course in relation to the upgrade of playgrounds around the county, as they require a “significant re-investment” after ten years to bring them up to an acceptable standard. At the recent meeting of Comeragh Municipal District Council, Cllr. Declan Clune noted that there has been natural wear and tear on some equipment in playgrounds around the county, particularly at the playground in Kilmeaden and Portlaw. Cllr. Clune noted that a lot of money was spent on the provision of these playgrounds and it would be a shame to see them run down.

Director of Services, Fergus Galvin confirmed that the Council is responsible for playgrounds they have provided and while there is a small budget available which covers maintenance and weekly inspections, which includes basic safety checks on the equipment, “a very significant re-investment” will have to be made soon to bring them up to an acceptable standard. He pointed out that playgrounds have a lot of timber and ropes, and the lifespan of the equipment is around ten to twelve years. “It will be a budget decision for the Council in due course,” Mr. Galvin added.

said. Ms. Breathnach acknowledged the Councillor’s comments, but pointed out that it is a national scheme. She said there will be a national meeting organised shortly to review the scheme and said she would raise the Councillor’s concerns. She said that there have been some people from the city who have been offered and accepted houses in the county, and viceversa. Ms. Breathnach said people are willing to move across the EastWest divide if they are in need of social housing. “At the end of the day, that is what it’s all about, getting people housed,” Ms. Breathnach added.

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Nollaig na Mban

6TH JANUARY 2017

TREAT YOURSELF TO A NIGHT OF FINE FOOD AND TOP ENTERTAINMENT

People reminded to keep an eye on elderly neighbours during Winter months

Continuance of use sought for mobile phone masts

Nollaig na Mban 6th January 2017

WHILE the Christmas festive period is over, there are still at least two more months of Winter to get through, and people are being reminded to check in with their elderly and vulnerable neighbours. Cllr. Seanie Power, speaking at the recent meeting of Comeragh Municipal District Council, appealed to people to check in with their neighbours, drawing attention to a recent survey carried out by Macra, which identified loneliness as the biggest fear of people living alone in rural and isolated places. He said it was important, particularly for people in rural areas, to keep an eye on their elderly and vulnerable neighbours over the Winter months.

COMMUNICATIONS infrastructure provider Cignal have sought permission for continuance of use of an existing 24 metre high mobile phone mast at Kilsheelan, County Waterford. Cignal sought the permission from Waterford Council on 21st December, 2016, for continuance of use of the existing 24 metre telecommunications support structure with associated equipment and permission for additional telecommunications equipment at the existing secure compound at Gurteen Upper (townland), Kilsheelan, County Waterford. (Planning reference: 16827). Cignal said the development will continue to form part of the existing 3G Broadband Network. Waterford Council is expected to make a decision on the application by 23rd February, 2017. DUNGARVAN MAST Meanwhile, ESB Telecoms Ltd., have been granted conditional permission for continuance of use of a 36 metre high free standing lattice communication structure carrying antennae and communication dishes at an existing 110 kV substation compound at Kiladangan, Dungarvan. The application was submitted to the Council on 2nd November, 2016, and the Council granted conditional permission on 20th December, 2016. (Planning reference: 16706).

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NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

O’Donnell welcomes restoration of traffic lights at T. F. Meagher Street

Kieran O'Connor, Farmview Auction and Lisa Curran, Glanbia Country Store, Dungarvan presenting a cheque for €6,500 to Sean Drohan, WLR/fm for the WLR/fm Christmas Appeal in aid of Vincent De Paul. [Sean Byrne]

WHILE a Waterford Councillor has welcomed the restoration of traffic lights at the junction of T. F. Meagher Street with Grattan Square in Dungarvan, he has urged the Council to restore traffic lights at the busy Mary Street junction due to safety fears. “The traffic lights at the Mary Street junction would be more important because it is a busy junction and there is more traffic at O’Connell Street, with people walking each way,” he said. Cllr. O’Donnell said he will be calling for the removal of the small ‘fried egg’ type roundabout at the Mary Street junction on

Grattan Square. “The Council needs to get rid of that, because cars and even trucks can’t use it,” he said. “There is also a lot of confusion between pedestrians and motorists at that junction with the roundabout.” Cllr. Seamus O’Donnell said he was not satisfied with the lighting situation overall in Grattan Square following the Smarter Travel refurbishment works. Cllr. O’Donnell said he has received countless representations from members of the public expressing concerns over safety

when walking across Grattan Square. “There should be flashing amber lights at all the pedestrian crossings in the Square,” said Cllr. O’Donnell.“Pedestrians can walk quickly out onto the crossing in the middle of the Square and some motorists may not see them. That is why I’m calling for the pedestrian crossings to have flashing lights.” He also criticised the parallel parking in the centre of the Square, saying that pedestrians can suddenly emerge from between those vehicles to cross the road.

Government action needed to protect rural Post Offices PUBLIC ALSO ASKED TO SUPPORT THEIR LOCAL POST OFFICE NETWORK By Paul Mooney WATERFORD City and County Council has called on the Government to implement page 48 of its ‘Programme for Government’ in order to protect rural Post Offices and encourage their growth, but a Waterford Councillor has also called on the public to support their local rural Post Office. A Notice of Motion was brought before the recent meeting of the Plenary body of the local authority by Cllr. Michael J. O’Ryan who asked that the Council call on the Taoiseach Enda Kenny to implement the recommendations of the Post Office Business Development Group and the new model of Community Banking as advocated on page 48 of the current ‘Programme for Government’ to facilitate the retention and growth of post offices in rural Ireland. The Motion initially came

before a recent meeting of Comeragh Municipal District Council, but it was agreed at that meeting to forward the Motion to the Plenary body of the local authority for full support from all the Council. The Notice of Motion at both Council meetings received full cross party support. Speaking at the Plenary session of the Council, Cllr. James Tobin supported the Motion, but also called on the public to support their local post office. “So many things can be done in the post office now,” Cllr. Tobin pointed out. He said if the public continue to go to banks or other places that are ‘convenient’ instead of using their local post office,“then it is not worthwhile for the post offices to stay open”. Cllr. Tobin warned that the post office in his area is closing down in the New Year. “This is a two-way thing. I am asking the public to keep supporting what we have in rural

Ireland and keep supporting small post offices in their area,” Cllr. Tobin added. Cllr. O’Ryan said at the last General Election in February, 2016, there was the intention to establish a ‘Minister for Rural Ireland’ to ‘rural-proof ’ government in Cabinet decisions. “Since the foundation of this current Government, it has been put on the backburner, or long finger,” said Cllr. O’Ryan. “Post offices are still closing and the salaries of Postmasters and Postmistresses are being continuously cut to the point of being non-viable, with some of them maintaining services at below minimum wage costs. “We have seen services removed from the post office and sorting offices being relocated to towns and larger urban areas. Most of these post offices can only keep their doors open for a very short while, so this is a matter of great urgency.” Cllr. O’Ryan said none of the criteria on page 48 of the

‘Programme for Government’ have been implemented and it is nearly one year since the General Election. He urged the Government to move quickly to maintain the post office network and the very social and economic fabric of each and every rural community. “I hope that this motion to the government will help to expedite the process,” he added. Seconding the motion, Cllr. John O’Leary said recent stamp price increases “are not a solution to the challenges that are facing An Post”. “The increase in the cost of a stamp will only add to the cost of doing business and put small businesses under pressure,” Cllr. O’Leary warned. “The closure of post offices has taken its toll on rural Waterford, in the likes of Kill, Bonmahon and Stradbally, and has taken a real social element out of those small villages,” he added. Cllr. Liam Brazil outlined the

importance of keeping amenities like the post office in small rural towns and villages. “We should do as much as we can to support our post office network because this is another link that is still alive in most rural villages and towns. The local shop, the co-ops, and Garda Barracks are all being closed, so we need to do all in our power to hold onto the post offices that are left in rural areas,” said Cllr. Brazil. Cllr. Declan Doocey drew attention to the amount of emails that are sent and the amount of stamps bought presently, compared with ten years ago, as people are now using electronic communications more, rather than sending communications through the post. He also pointed out that the rural post office is a social meeting place for the elderly on pension day and stressed the need to maintain the rural post offices. Other Councillors who spoke in favour of the motion included

Blaise Hannigan, Jim Griffin, Joe Conway and Seanie Power. Cllr. O’Ryan expressed thanks to his Council colleagues for their cross-party support of the motion. He also pointed out the importance of rural broadband to rural post offices. “What is the point of aspirations of e-payments if rural post offices can’t get proper broadband facilities,” Cllr. O’Ryan said. “The public will go elsewhere - a more convenient place to do their business. “We are not telling the Government anything they don’t know - this is their own programme for Government, and we are asking them to expedite the process and ensure the continuity of rural Ireland,” Cllr. O’Ryan added. The motion received unanimous support. It was also agreed the motion be forwarded to other local authorities for support.

Council adopts new Library Development Plan for next five years WATERFORD City and County Council adopted a new Library Development Plan for the next five years. It is the first such plan for library development of the new merged authority which identifies six themes (community, health and wellbeing, education,

culture, leisure and economy) to help create a library service the people feel ownership of, feel comfortable in to use as their own and see a viable part of their future. The Council said that in order to achieve the objectives in the plan over the next five years, they

will build and develop existing strengths within the library service, along with strong infrastructure, well educated, motivated staff, strong community partnerships and funding commitments from the Council. At the recent meeting of the local authority, Cllr. Joe Conway

said it was “a very imaginative and optimistic plan” and said he was “very taken with the section on education and how it addresses the library and the part they play in the digital age”. Cllr. Conway pointed out that the technology sector is changing dramatically and queried if there

was a provision for this in the plan and review it periodically. Director of Services Michael Quinn said the executive would review the progress of the plan on an annual basis and would take on board Cllr. Conway’s suggestion to formally review the Library Development Plan, par-

ticularly in relation to changing technology over the next several years. On the proposal of Cllr. Declan Doocey, seconded by Cllr. Liam Brazil, the Library Development Plan was passed with unanimous support of the Council.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

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Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

The year ahead in Ireland FOR the people of Ireland and our leaders, the year ahead holds many challenges. We are governed at the moment by a Dail and Cabinet comprising disparate elements and which regularly seem as if they will come to an abrupt end. For all its faults, it is maintaining an appearance of stability even without the benefit of the notorious whip system which deprives deputies of a great measure of freedom of opinion. There is much talk of the possible effects of the British exit from the EU and its likely effects of our country. There is an honesty in everyone admitting publicly that no one really knows how this will play out on the island of Ireland or elsewhere, but has to cause an anxiety for our people. One of our closest friends and biggest trading partners, the United States, has elected what might be described at its kindest, as a maverick to the Presidency. How this will affect our American companies operating here is unknown, but it has to be a cause of concern for our employment and trading figures. On the soil of the US, our undocumented residents are suffering unease at the prospect of being sent home, or worse and this too is a matter of grave concern. There is not yet a full realisation among the population and worse, in the Dail and Cabinet room of the scandal of our homeless statistics. Unfortunately, the reality of being without the stability and basic comfort of a home, rented or owned, has not yet fully impinged on our consciousness. One of the great inspirations for freedom in the years before we gained independence was the sight of evictions from homes, businesses and farms which aroused great anger and violence among the population. A single eviction in more recent decades provoked headlines and evoked public odium, yet we have quietly accepted this practice on a daily basis with two families a day becoming homeless. Do we not realise that in the 21st Century this should be unthinkable and seen as being as unacceptable today as it was a century and a half ago? An equal scandal is the failure of our health system to properly care for those who need it and which has seen the people of Ireland suffer greatly for almost a decade. While some attempts are being made to combat this scandal, it has not yet gained the priority which the public deserve. While figures are massaged to show improvements, the truth remains that people are dying unnecessarily in a country which is deemed to have left the days of austerity behind. All other areas must follow in priority, but if by year’s end these two scandals are not much closer to a full

J1 for students still a possibility Incorp. Munster Industrial Advocate resolution, then whatever government is in power will have failed the people. On the positive side, we have a recovering and strengthening economy, one which, given proper management and a social conscience should be capable of dealing with our many shortcomings.

Dismay at drink driving increase THE final death toll on the roads of Ireland for the year just past stands at 188 people, a regretful and unnecessary increase of twenty-six fatalities on last year. While there may be a slight variation in these tragic numbers from year to year, the trend for some time now has been a downward one. Consequently, the increase of 16 in the year just past is wholly unacceptable. Another incredible and unacceptable statistic from 2016 is that there were almost 750 people arrested on suspicion of drink driving in December alone. Has the Irish public not learned any lesson of the past number of years in regard to this all too common breach of the law? It is an offence against our society. Has the fall in the number of victims in recent years not taught us that this is an offence we could largely consign to the past and is an avoidable tragedy which families have to bear? Irish society would be entitled to expect that constant advertising and dedicated promotion would have impinged on even the most reluctant consciousness. Yet, there are people who will still flout the law, abandon common sense, and fly in the face of decency in order to ‘enjoy themselves’ at others expense. There can be no sympathy for those who are caught drink-driving, yet their families too may suffer the consequences as the bread-winner is put off the road and other hardships and inconveniences are visited on them. Everyone has a role to play in restoring the downward path of these tragedies and reversing the trend of drink-driving. Wherever, whenever and whoever we can prevent driving in an unfit fashion, it is our bounden duty, regardless of embarrassment, loss of a ‘friend’ or other consequences. Let us repeat, it is our duty!

NOW that we face into a new year, Leaving Cert students are making their CAO choices while Third Level students are considering an application for a J1 Visa and a Summer in the US. However, the J1 Visa was one of the targets in the campaign rhetoric of US President-Elect Trump and he suggested that the positions traditionally filled by Irish and other foreign students should be reserved instead for the inner city youth of America and businesses will be urged to employ them instead. However, many on both sides of the Atlantic feel that the JI initiative is so embedded in the American system that it is likely to remain largely untouched. One indicator that the J1 is likely to be retained comes from the Council on International Educational Exchange, a nonprofit US organisation that sponsors the J1 in America which says that the programme provides tools for the advancement of US national security and cultural exchange, not pathways for immigration or labour programmes. It would be unthinkable in many circles in the US that the Irish students would not be part of the American Summer landscape, but whether this would be a factor in Mr. Trump’s policies is anyone’s guess at this stage. The US State Department which is ultimately responsible for the issuing of visas has indicated that there is no need for concern and that it will be ‘business as usual. They are encouraging students to continue to apply. The J1 Visa has provided many young Irish people with a legal stay in America and also an opportunity to see what those faraway hills are like. While few accumulate or bring back any appreciable funds with them, it is invaluable experience for later life and for many life-changing experiences. Whatever radical policies Mr. Trump may pursue as America’s next President, there will be many prayers from Ireland that he will not include the J1 in any curtailment of present immigration policy.

Our good wishes WE send our good wishes for a happy, healthy, safe and fulfilling year ahead to all our readers, advertisers and contributors and hope that 2017 will be a successful year for them.

Reg. in GPO as a Newspaper • Shandon, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford • 058-41205/42042 • www.dungarvanobserver.ie • news@dungarvanobserver.ie

Councillors told social housing development will be ‘demand led’ THE development of social housing in Waterford City and County Council will be ‘demand led’ which means more social housing will likely be developed in urban areas, rather than rural areas. At the recent meeting of Comeragh Municipal District Council, Cllr. Declan Clune urged the Council to be “more ambitious” in their plans for

social housing, and asked to see a plan of what the Council will be doing over the next 24 months. He pointed out that there is a new housing development proposed for Portlaw, “but as we discovered recently, it will be the bones of four years before those 12 houses are built and made available to occupy!”

“Overall, we need to drive it on a bit. Just 14 new tenancies in the Comeragh area for 2016 is a bit low,” said Cllr. Clune. In relation to the 14 new tenancies, Sinead Breathnach, Administrative Officer, Housing, said that is dependent on the vacancies which arise. She pointed out that the Council has purchased

properties over the last year and it is hoped the new vacant house leasing initiative will also help with providing social housing. She said while the housing section can look at the Comeragh area in relation to ongoing plans, it is all dependent on where the demand is, therefore social housing plans will be demand led.

Young people left disappointed over forced cancellation of Christmas disco MANY young people were left disappointed over the Christmas period when a teenage disco organised by Dungarvan No Name Club had to be cancelled due to the behaviour of a minority of youths who turned up intoxicated before the doors opened for the event. The Christmas Teen Disco was to take place at Club Creation, Abbeyside, on Tuesday, 27th December, from 9.00 to 11.30 p.m. However, concern was expressed by the Gardaí to the venue owner about the condition of a number of young people who turned up on the night to gain entry, including an earlier

incident where an ambulance had to be called for a young person. The disco was organised for young people of school going age, from third year upwards only, and the event was strictly no alcohol. Dungarvan No Name Club provides positive alternatives for young people free from the pressures of alcohol or drugs. In a message on their Facebook page, Dungarvan No Name Club said they have operated safe and successful discos for young people for more than 12 years in Dungarvan, and they were “gutted” that the many responsible and sober teenagers who turned up on

the night were denied a night of enjoyment due to the behaviour of a minority of young people who turned up drunk. The No Name Club pointed out that several buses turned up to the event, which were understood to have no adult supervision, but the No Name Club said they were “not involved in organising these buses in any way”. The doors to the venue were not opened, nobody entered the venue and no money was paid by anybody. No Name Club event organisers requested all young people to return to their buses or contact their parents.

“We immediately posted on Facebook informing of the situation and requesting parents to collect the young people. We remained outside the venue as a duty of care to the young people to ensure they were safely collected. We wish to sincerely thank those parents that responded promptly,” stated Dungarvan No Name Club on their Facebook page. Adult members of the No Name Club and security staff remained at the location to ensure young people had a safe way home, but they also ended up having to deal with several intoxicated teenagers, many of whom challenged the adult members when they

insisted the youths’ parents be contacted. A number of ‘naggins’ of vodka were also confiscated on the night from several teenagers. Dungarvan No Name Club stated on their Facebook page: “We have a proud record of youth work in Dungarvan for many years and we will continue to do so in the future. Our work is rooted in bringing out the best in our young people. We were delighted with the positive attitude shown by most of the young people who attended and we acknowledge the support we received from our club members”.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

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Tourism Ireland film highlights County Waterford and the Comeragh Mountains TOURISM Ireland has unveiled an online film called “Stories of Ireland’s Ancient East: The Highwayman’s Gold”, featuring County Waterford and the beautiful Comeragh Mountains – part of Tourism Ireland’s promotional activity to highlight Ireland’s Ancient East around the world.

The short film features the stunning scenery of this part of Ireland, with storyteller Pat ‘The Hat’ Speight telling the legend of a highwayman’s riches buried in the Comeragh Mountains. Tourism Ireland created the film to encourage prospective visitors to come and uncover the beautiful treasure of Waterford and

Ireland’s Ancient East. To view the film go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v= ynMIJRiatJ4 The film is being promoted through Tourism Ireland’s social platforms, including Facebook (3.7 million fans worldwide), Twitter (372,000 followers) and YouTube.

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SuperValu announced as title sponsor for Tidy Towns competition from 2017 to 2021 MR. Michael Ring,TD, Minister for Regional Economic Development is delighted to announce that SuperValu will sponsor the TidyTowns Competition from 2017 to 2021. Speaking Minister Ring said “SuperValu has been the sole sponsor of this competition for the past 25 years and I am delighted to confirm that my Department and SuperValu will continue to work together to develop and grow the competi-

tion over the next 5 years. Together we have a shared vision to build on the strengths of the SuperValu TidyTowns competition and to ensure that it continues to grow and be relevant. This competition has been running for almost 60 years and is stitched into the fabric of so many communities in Ireland and those communities benefit from the tireless work of the TidyTowns committees and volunteers.

Given SuperValu’s strong emphasis on working closely with the communities in which they do business and their impressive record in reducing their environmental impact, I think they are an excellent fit for this competition. Volunteering within your own community, for the benefit of your community, helps to strengthen ties and develop a sense of place, a place where people belong. As we look to the

Pictured are Mr. Martin Kelleher, Managing Director of SuperValu; Anne Doyle, Chairperson of Skerries TidyTowns Committee and winners of Ireland’s Tidiest Town 2016 and Mr. Michael Ring, T.D., Minister for Regional Economic Development.

60th Anniversary of the competition in 2018, I am happy that its future is bright.” Martin Kelleher, Managing Director of SuperValu added “As a family owned Irish business, we are exceptionally proud of our 25 year association with the TidyTowns competition and are delighted to have been given the opportunity to build upon our successful partnership which has helped to establish it as Ireland’s leading community initiative. Given that SuperValu stores are owned by local entrepreneurs, we pride ourselves on being at the heart of towns and villages all over Ireland. The TidyTowns competition has always been a natural fit for us as our continued success depends on vibrant communities across the country. We see the positive impact that TidyTowns volunteers have first-hand every day and are honoured to be in a position whereby we can celebrate their achievements each year. As a company, we want to make the towns and villages we live in, better and healthier places for everyone. Our association with TidyTowns plays a key role in realising this ambition. We look forward to working with the Department and helping to build upon the success of the TidyTowns competition to date by increasing its popularity into the future.” The SuperValu TidyTowns competition has been running since 1958 and is organised by the Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs. It was devised by Fáilte Ireland as a tourism initiative but has developed to focus on how people live in their communities, for today and into the future.The competition has been sponsored by SuperValu since 1992. Interest in the SuperValu TidyTowns competition has been stronger than ever in recent years, with 859 communities entering the competition in 2016. Following a targeted invitation to over 38 companies and a number of sponsorship agencies in Ireland, SuperValu has been chosen as the successful candidate to sponsor the Tidy Towns Competition from 2017 to 2021. Together with its retail partners, SuperValu has 222 stores nationwide and employs approximately 14,500 colleagues. As SuperValu retailers both live and work in the communities in which they operate, they are heavily involved in local causes and contribute over €2.5 million annually to local initiatives.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

K n o w Yo u r R i g h t s Payslips QUESTION: I started a new job 3 weeks ago. Although I have been paid each week, I don’t know if I have paid any tax or PRSI. How do I find that out? Answer: You should have been given a payslip by your employer when you were paid. Your payslip can be provided to you either in electronic format or in hard copy. Under the Payment of Wages Act 1991 all employees have the right to a pay slip which shows the gross pay and details of all deductions. A payslip is essentially a written statement from the employer to the employee that outlines the total pay before tax and all details of any deductions from pay. Certain deductions from pay are allowed under the Act. They include deductions that are required by law, for example, tax (PAYE), Universal Social Charge (USC) and social insurance (PRSI). Deductions provided for in your contract of employment, such as occupational pension contributions, are also allowed. You should ask your employer for pay slips for the three weeks that you have already worked. If your employer fails to give you those pay slips and continues to pay you without giving you a pay slip, you may make a complaint to the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC). To do this, you make a complaint under the Payment of Wages Act using the online complaint form available on the WRC website, workplacerelations.ie. The Workplace Relations Commission also provides information on your rights and entitlements under employment legislation. For further information about your employment rights on pay slips and deductions from wages, you can contact its Information and Customer Service at Lo-call 1890 80 80 90 or through the website, workplacerelations.ie. Further information is available from the Citizens Information Centre below. Know Your Rights has been compiled by Dungarvan Citizens Information Service which provides a free and confidential service to the public. Tel: 0761 076550. Address: Scanlons Yard, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford. Information is also available online at citizensinformation.ie and from the Citizens Information Phone Service, 0761 07 4000. Know Your Rights has been compiled by Dungarvan Citizens Information Service which provides a free and confidential service to the public. Tel: 0761 076550. Address: Scanlon Yard, Dungarvan, Co Waterford. Information is also available online at citizensinformation.ie and from the Citizens Information Phone Service, 0761 07 4000.

Moneymatters Better Energy Warmer Homes Scheme THE Better Energy Warmer Homes Scheme aims to improve the energy efficiency and warmth of homes owned by people on low incomes. It is operated by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI). Work funded under the Scheme includes: • Attic Insulation • Draught-proofing • Lagging jackets • Low-energy light bulbs • Cavity wall insulation • Energy Advice Qualifying conditions apply. For full information on the scheme and qualifying conditions go to www.seai.ie. To apply directly for the scheme, contact SEAI by phone on 1800 250 204 or email warmerhomes@seai.ie. The Money Advice & Budgeting Service is based at Civic Offices, Davitt’s Quay, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford X35 Y326. (Tel 0761 07 2770 – Fax 058-45296) and provides a service throughout the West Waterford area. It is part of the national MABS Service and is free, confidential and independent. Visit our web site at: www.mabs.ie Phone MABS Helpline 0761 07 2000 Email helpline@mabs.ie

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Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

Councillor suggests dispensable puncture repair kits for Greenway cyclists A COUNCILLOR has suggested that the new Waterford Greenway should have puncture repair kit dispensers for cyclists who experience a flat tyre while using the amenity. At the recent meeting of Comeragh Municipal District Council, Cllr. Michael J. O’Ryan said he had the misfortune of getting a puncture while using the Greenway recently near Durrow Tunnel, and the following week a family member also experienced a puncture near the same location. “Maybe if there were little dispensers along the route so that people could mend their punctures?” he suggested. “I would have loved to have gotten back onto the bike again that day.” Ritchie Walsh, Head of Enterprise, replied that the private sector would have to provide such facilities and services, while the Council provides other facilities, such as benches, furniture

and equipment along the route. SIGNAGE Cllr. O’Ryan also queried the provision of signage to promote the Comeragh area along the route, such as Ballyvoile where the constituency border begins. Mr. Walsh said he doesn’t see why such signage couldn’t happen to promote the Comeragh area on the Greenway. He pointed out there will be a signage scheme for the whole Greenway, but it can’t be implemented until the entire route is officially opened. “It wouldn’t make economic sense to get signage for places on a bit-by-bit basis. We want to procure it altogether and that won’t be done until probably next March,” Mr. Walsh said. In relation to signage in general, Mr. Walsh said that was the responsibility of the Council’s roads section. “When we get a funding opportunity under the Tourism

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branch, then we generally look for things like extra information / interpretative signage, but only under funding regimes announced by Fáilte Ireland, because we don’t have a budget for it,” said Mr. Walsh. He said there is word that a new scheme may be announced shortly by Fáilte Ireland and said better signage for the Comeragh area could be a component of that scheme. ‘SELFIES’ OPPORTUNITIES Cllr. O’Ryan also suggested that scenes of natural beauty be made easily viewable from the Greenway to give people opportunities to take ‘selfies’ photographs - pointing out that selfies can be a very good promotional tool on social networking sites. Mr.Walsh said the opportunity for a good photo along the Greenway route will no doubt happen over time.

Council meeting with successful communities to begin work under Town and Villages Renewal Scheme DUNGARVAN WATERFORD Council is meeting with local communities who were successful in their application for funding under the Town and Villages Renewal Scheme, with a view to commencing work in the next week or so. At the recent meeting of Comeragh Municipal District Council, Cathaoirleach Cllr. John O’Leary sought an update on the scheme. Cllr. Declan Clune welcomed the funding and said it was great to see additional investment into the area. He noted that Comeragh areas, Kilmacthomas

and Bonmahon received €80,000 and €20,000 respectively in funding under the scheme for work in their communities. Head of Enterprise, Ritchie Walsh, concurred that the funding under the scheme was very welcome and said the funding could be drawn down straight away. He said the Council is meeting with local groups to advance works in the community, which should be starting in the next week or so, with a view to completing the works by the end of March.

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Council acknowledges work of Ballymacarbry Community Centre in relocation of ‘recycling bring bank’ THE co-operation and work of Ballymacarbry Community Centre in allowing a ‘recycling bring bank’ on their grounds was acknowledged at the recent meeting of Comeragh Municipal District Council. “I would like to acknowledge the part played by Ballymacarbry Community Centre in allowing the ‘bring bank’ to be located at their premises, rather than on the outskirts of the village at the Council depot,” said Cllr. Michael J. O’Ryan. “I worked with them on this in relation to moving it, and I

think it will be an added few points for the Tidy Towns Committee as the ‘bring bank’ will now be in the remit of the village itself.” Cllr. O’Ryan said he would reiterate the words of the fiveperson committee at Ballymacarbry Community Centre - that it is a temporary measure and if people don’t abide by the rules of the ‘bring bank’, and keep it tidy and clean, then it will revert back to its old location. Cllr. O’Ryan appealed to people that if they see the

‘recycling bring bank’ full to capacity, to ring the authorities, or else bring their recycling home with them until the next available oppor-tunity, and not to let it accumulate at the site. Director of Services, Fergus Galvin also acknowledged the co-operation and work of Ballymacarbry Community Centre in allowing the ‘recycling bring bank’ to be located on their site. “I certainly hope it will work out in the long term,” Mr. Galvin added.

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The Wedding Journal Show is back! THE Wedding Journal Show returns to the CityWest Convention Centre, Dublin, on Saturday 14th and Sunday, 15th January, with an action packed all-new show! With over 300 of Ireland’s top wedding suppliers and businesses under one roof, this really is a wedding show not to be missed. Couples will have the chance to Win a €35,000 Wedding at the show; a life-changing prize for anyone. This is the Wedding Journal’s BIGGEST EVER wedding giveaway to date and the lucky winners will go on a once-ina-lifetime luxury honeymoon to Dubai, with business class flights from Emirates, following their wedding in the exclusive Markree Castle. Visitors to the show can enter this incredible competition for free, with the winner being revealed during the exciting live final on the main stage on Sunday. Couples can celebrate their upcoming big day in style in the luxurious VIP Lounge where VIPs will be treated to a glass of bubby and a fabulous free Benefit goody bag. The renowned International Bridal Catwalk

will run three times daily featuring the very latest wedding dresses, bridesmaids’ gowns, occasion wear and grooms wear from worldrenowned designers and manufactures. Collections are modelled by a team of professional dancers who really know how to put on a show. Wedding Journal Show visitors will also have the opportunity to talk to wedding industry experts about every aspect of their wedding day, from venues and stationery, to cakes and cars, that all-important honeymoon and a lot more besides. At the Alternative Wedding Village couples will be introduced to some of Ireland’s most creative and quirky wedding suppliers, and the Honeymoon & Destination Wedding Pavilion provides the perfect platform to plan that dream honeymoon or wedding abroad. Opening times: Saturday 14th and Sunday, 15th January, 12–6 p.m. Save 25% with online tickets at WeddingJournalOnline.com. Tickets can also be purchased at the door.

THE Dungarvan Observer is teaming up with The Wedding Journal Show to give away ten pairs of tickets to the Dublin show in the CityWest Convention Centre on 14th and 15th January. For your chance to win a pair, answer the following question: In what venue will The Wedding Journal Show take place in Dublin this January 2017? Post your entries into Wedding Show Competition, Dungarvan Observer, Shandon, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford, on or before 12 noon on Tuesday, 10th January, 2017. Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. Answer: …………………………………………………………………………………………… Name: …………………………………………………………………………………………..… Address: ……………………………………………………………..…………………………… ………………………………………………………………………...………………………..… …………………………………………………… Tel. No. ………………………...….………… Date on which you wish to attend (14th or 15th) ………………………………………………

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

Waterford school receives award in Someone Like Me art competition – Tracey Fennell (Teacher), Grace Heyburn and Taylor O’Brien from Aglish National School, Waterford who were awarded Senior County Primary Schools Art Competition winners by Minister of State with special responsibility for Disability Issues, Finian McGrath T.D. The aim of the Competition, which is sponsored by the Department of Justice and Equality, is to develop children’s understanding and awareness of disabilities, and to celebrate the things that make them and their classmates unique.

A Matter of Honor: Pearl Harbour; Betrayal, Blame and a family’s quest for justice by Anthony Summers and Robbyn Swan their use of Kimmel and Review by Donald Brady itself, Short as scapegoats, and most THIS is the 10th major investigative work published by Anthony Summers and is the 5th produced jointly with his wife, Robbyn Swan. The award-winning couple were nominated and short-listed for a Pulitzer Prize for their book on 9/11. Tony Summers has been resident in Waterford for 43 years and Robbyn Swan for almost 25 years.The book release coincided with the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. It is, like all their work, meticulous, exhaustive, and painstakingly researched. The book details the events which preceded and precipitated the ‘catastrophe.’ The account of the attack itself is detailed and restates most of the information which is already in the public domain. The second part of the book deals with the consequences of the attack and particularly those which directly impacted on Admiral Husband Kimmel and General Walter Short, the military commanders of the naval base and the island garrison. Tragically, the consequences for the Kimmel family, now in its third generation, are still felt today. In the immediate aftermath of the attack the American public demanded the attribution of blame and this fell on Kimmel and Short following what amounted to a ‘kangaroo court’ established to investigate the causes. In summary, Summers and Swan detail the efforts of the political and military establishment to protect

perniciously of all their use of ‘national security priorities’ as a device to conceal the truth. This powerful establishment used the necessary protection of the breakthrough by the ‘Magic’ cryptology intelligence section in cracking the Japanese communication codes as a means of preventing disclosure of information which would have exonerated the local commanders. This scenario reminds one sharply of the case of the Birmingham Six and the “appalling vista” scenario described by Lord Denning. However, what is almost impossible to understand, is that 75 years later, Kimmel and Short, long since dead, have not had their ranks restored in military records, a privilege granted to all officers following retirement. It is perhaps in this respect that the work of Summers and Swan is so important. The release of this tremendous book confirms that common justice demands that the Kimmel family, who have fought so long and so hard to restore the honour and name of Admiral Kimmel, should be given closure. My perusal of this book also garnered more universal thoughts on our approach to major, and indeed minor historical events and sites. I visited Pearl Harbor many years ago, and it was indeed the overriding reason for my visit to Hawaii. I was not disappointed! Priority was given to the names of those who had lost their lives and the ‘monument’ over the remains of The Arizona

was visited in virtual silence with the seeping oil from its engine (still seeping today!) a hugely evocative symbol of the human tragedy that had unfolded on that spot. The treatment of the tragedy at the site was neither brash nor reverent, but was rather respectful and demanded reflection from the visitor. This is surely the atmosphere we should seek and expect from our historic sites. But unfortunately, I am all too frequently struck by the belief that the primary motivation behind, and the consequential atmosphere of, many of our ‘visitor attractions’ (the very phrase is irritating!) has an unabashedly economic basis. This book is an essential exploration of a seismic event and the machinations of the power elite in its wake. Anthony Summers and Robbyn Swan have again provided us with a powerful and well written tome. A Matter of Honor is published by HarperCollins (521p) at €35.

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

Councillors welcome CLÁR funding for road safety measures at schools WATERFORD Councillors welcomed CLÁR funding which will see €194,000 divided between 14 different areas of the county for road safety measures outside schools. At the recent meeting of the local authority, Cllr. James Tobin welcomed the funding, saying Waterford “got a great amount of it” even though there was a short timeframe in which to apply for funding. Also welcoming the funding was Cllr. Michael J. O’Ryan, who said the funding “would do great work for schools and road safety measures”. Cllr. Seanie Power said safety measures at schools is something he has campaigned for since he was elected. “I’m delighted to see that the Comeragh area received funding under CLÁR,” said Cllr. Power. He said almost every school needs upgrading of road safety and asked the Council to look into the possibility of extending the CLÁR scheme to other schools. Director of Services, Fergus Galvin described Waterford’s

allocation of CLÁR funding as “very successful”. “We got more or less everything we looked for,” said Mr. Galvin. He said it was a condition of the funding that the Council get as much work done as possible by the end of the year or very early in the New Year. Mr. Galvin said the Council has already commenced procurement of equipment. “As soon as we’ve finished our engagement with the school principals as to where the road safety signs should go, we’ll be out within a matter of weeks to install the road safety measures,” he said. Mr. Galvin said there was an expectation of further CLÁR funding in 2017. BREAKDOWN OF FUNDING In a breakdown of the €194,000, there will €12,000 for driver feedback signs, road markings and symbols at Modeligo National School, along with a further €20,000 to create a car park; €17,000 for Ballyduff Upper, for speed safety signs, with necessary signage and mark-

ings; €19,000 for Clashmore, for replacement of flashing amber lights, pedestrian crossing to link the housing estate and village to the school; €25,000 for Rathgormack, for road markings and a pedestrian crossing to the community centre, playground and church; €10,000 for Knockanore, for replacement of flashing amber lights and safety measures; €10,000 for Kinsalebeg for replacement of flashing amber lights and safety measures; €18,000 for Touraneena, for road markings to create car parking spaces, construct a footpath opposite the school and commission street lighting outside the school gates; €10,000 for An Sean Phobal, for replacement of amber flashing lights and safety measures; €3,000 for Kilbrien, for refurbishment of the existing school warning signs and erection of new children crossing signs, along with new road markings and symbols; €10,000 each for Aglish, Whitechurch / Ballinameela, Villierstown, Grange and Ballycurrane, for the replacement of flashing amber safety lights.

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Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

Grow It Yourself (GIY) - January 2017 THE ‘hungry gap’ is a term for that dreaded period in the GIYers’ year when last year’s produce has finished and new season crops haven’t yet come on stream. The phrase harks back to a time when people were fearful of actually going hungry at that time of the year. It seems like a pretty quaint concept from the lofty heights of the modern age, where seasonality doesn’t seem to exist at all. I like the idea of a veg patch hungry gap. It reminds me that I have become more focussed on seasonal eating and that my relationship with food has shifted and deepened. It gives me a connection with the ancient seasonal rhythms and an awareness that the food supply is temporary and fragile - it waxes and wanes. After a few years of growing food, I was surprised to discover that the hungry gap doesn’t in fact happen in Winter. The novice grower would expect the depths of Winter to be hungry gap territory, but in fact it comes much later in growing season, usually from March to May. In fact, May has been the trickiest food month in my garden over the years – this always strikes me as deliciously ironic since it’s also a month when one typically gets the first great surge of growth in nature. But there’s little ready to eat yet, and last year’s supplies have been well and truly exhausted. Though we haven’t quite reached hungry gap territory yet in our garden, I do have a sense in the last few weeks that we are beginning to pass the point of plenty. In December, we tearfully opened the last of our onions. We are in the death throes of our carrot crop and I am simultaneously pleased to have made it this far and annoyed that I didn’t grow more. In the kitchen I still have plenty of garlic, squashes, pumpkins, chillipeppers, and shallots. I’d be lost without the pickle/ chutney shelf, particularly when it comes to the school lunches. The freezer still turns up an occasional nugget of wonderfulness – say some beautiful broad beans harvested last September. In the polytunnel, we’ve still plenty of Winter greens. In the veg patch I still have a decent number of parsnips in the ground and there’s a little cluster of rather dogged looking beetroot remaining too. Close by, there’s a great crop of leeks – surely another 4-6 weeks worth. Finally, there’s also still plenty of life in my kale and perpetual spinach plants. So, all in all, we won’t go hungry yet! THINGS TO DO THIS MONTH To Do Plan.This is the time to decide where and what you are going to grow this year. If you are just starting out join your local GIY group for advice and check out our website for handy “getting started” guides and videos. Consider building or buying raised vegetable beds. Order your seeds, onions sets and seed potatoes. Turn over the soil in February only if the weather is dry – if the soil sticks to your boots it’s too early for digging! “Chit” seed potatoes – put them in a container (e.g. used egg carton or empty seed tray) and leave them in a bright warm place to sprout. Sow In mid February, in seed trays and pots on a sunny windowsill indoors sow celery, globe artichokes, celeriac, leeks, onions, lettuce, tomatoes, peas, aubergines, peppers/chilli-peppers. Weather permitting outside you can try sowing broadbeans, spinach, kohlrabi, onion and shallot sets, Jerusalem artichokes, parsnip and early pea varieties. Harvest You may still have Winter cabbage, perpetual spinach, chard, leeks, kale, cauliflowers and Brussels sprouts in your veggie patch and depending on how successful your growing/storage

regime last year was, you may well still be tucking in to stores of potatoes, celeriac, carrots, parsnips, onions, cauliflower, jerusalem artichokes, Winter squash, pumpkins, leeks and red cabbage. RECIPE OF THE WEEK – WINTER COUSCOUS This is a really delicious and healthy mid-week dinner that’s meat free and filling at the same time. If you still have carrots and parsnips in the ground, and squashes and shallots hanging around in the larder, then this can be an almost entirely homegrown meal with just a few clever store cupboard ingredients added. Serves 2. INGREDIENTS: • 200g butternut squash, peeled and cubed. • 1 carrot, peeled and cut in chunks • 1 parsnip, peeled and cut in chunks • 1 bunch fresh coriander, chopped • 3 shallots, peeled and halved • 200g tinned chickpeas • 100g wholemeal couscous • 1 teaspoon each ground turmeric, ground ginger, chilli flakes • 1 cinnamon stick, 1 star anise, 1 bay leaf • 1 teaspoon harissa paste • 2 tablespoons olive oil DIRECTIONS: Put the carrot, parsnip and shallots in a shallow baking dish. Add the cinnamon stick, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, star anise, turmeric, ginger, bay leaf and chilli flakes, mix well and roast for 10 minutes. Add the butternut squash, sprinkle with some salt and return to the oven for another 20 minutes. Add the chickpeas and a little water and continue roasting for another 5 minutes. Ten minutes before the vegetables are ready, place the couscous in a bowl, cover with boiling water, cover the bowl with cling film and leave to rest for 5 minutes. Fluff the couscous with a fork, add a tablespoon of olive oil and the harissa paste. Divide the couscous between two bowls. Spoon over the roasted vegetables and sprinkle with plenty of chopped coriander. Tip of the Month – Buy your onion sets.. Buy your onion sets. Onion sets are small, immature onions, planted in Spring or late Summer. The sets increase in size and each forms one full-sized bulb when ready to harvest. It’s much easier to grow onions from sets than it is from seed. A poor onion set equals a poor onion. With that in mind we should only sow the best quality onion sets otherwise we will get a poor harvest. Sow good hard, plump ones - never very small or soft ones. Sets can be planted in the soil in April, weather permitting. GROW HQ The home of the GIY movement and our brand new food education centre, GROW HQ, is finally open in Waterford city. In addition to our 65-seat home-grown food café and shop, we’ve a range of growing and cooking courses happening weekly – for courses happening this month, check out www.growhq.org.

Professor John O’Halloran, Vice-President for Teaching & Learning, UCC, pictured with Rose Keating, Waterford City, and Dr. Jennifer Murphy, Administration Officer, UCC, at the University College Cork Quercus Scholarships Awards Gala. [Clare Keogh]

Delegation of Councillors to meet with TII over road safety concerns A DELEGATION from Waterford Council arranged to meet representatives of Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) recently over ongoing safety concerns on the N25, and other road safety issues. Two Councillors from Comeragh Municipal District Council and two Councillors from Dungarvan-Lismore Municipal District Council formed part of the delegation to travel to Dublin to meet with TII. At the recent meeting of Comeragh Municipal District Council, Cllr. Liam Brazil welcomed the meeting saying it was something he has fought for, for a very long time, because of his concerns over Downey’s Cross junction on the N25 and the lack of movement on a proposed pedestrian crossing for Lemybrien. Echoing the sentiments, Cathaoirleach, Cllr. John O’Leary said there are “a plethora of issues to discuss with the TII regarding the N25”. Cllr. O’Leary said he had a huge concern about safety for drivers turning right from the N25 onto local roads. Meanwhile, Cllr. Declan Clune queried if all Councillors were notified of the meeting with TII, because he received no notification and was therefore unaware the meeting was to be held. He said he hoped he was not excluded from the meeting because he is in the minority on the Council (the lone Sinn Féin Councillor for Comeragh area). Cllr. Seanie Power said he knew about the TII meeting because it was discussed at a previous Council meeting and Cllr. Michael J. O’Ryan said he proposed at the last Council meeting that Councillors John O’Leary and Liam Brazil represent Comeragh area at the TII meeting.

It is understood there were two Councillors from the two Districts (Comeragh and Dungarvan-Lismore) appointed to meet with TII. Cllr. O’Leary said the TII were only prepared to meet ‘X’ amount of people and so were not prepared to meet a delegation bigger than four. Cllr. Brazil said he is going to the meeting because he initially requested the meeting with TII. “I looked for this meeting for the past 18 months,” said Cllr. Brazil. “Because if nothing is done about Downey’s Cross there will be a fatality there. “I tried meeting with TII myself, but they wouldn’t allow that. They told me the only way to meet them was through a delegation from the Council. I make no apologises to anyone why I’m going to meet TII,” Cllr. Brazil added. Cllr. Clune responded that he had no difficulty with anyone going. “My point is that I didn’t know about the meeting,” said Cllr. Clune. Cllr. O’Leary said issues regarding the N25 were also raised at the Dungarvan-Lismore meeting and they were also seeking to meet with TII, so it was decided that two representatives from both areas would join the delegation to meet TII. Cllr. O’Ryan said the delegation attending the meeting with TII need to have their homework done, with information, photographs and a map for a detailed presentation to TII. Cllr. Ray Murphy said he was delighted the delegation are going to meet with TII to discuss the issues and concerns on the N25. He reiterated concerns about the Carrick Road roundabout and asked the delegation to raise the matter at the meeting.

Pensions are rights, not bargaining chips - Cullinane SINN Féin TD and spokesperson for Public Expenditure and Reform David Cullinane has defended public sector pensioners, saying that the vast majority of them are on modest rates that are reflective of their service. Deputy Cullinane said: “When it comes to pensions, the arguments of IBEC and Minister Donohoe rise and flow with a predictability as certain as the tides. “While it is true that the pensions of former ministers

and secretary-generals are out of line with reality, the vast majority of public sector workers are on modest rates that afford them a decent living at a time when their working days have ended. “The majority of public sector pensioners receive less than €20,000 a year. To say that this is a gold-plated payment is simply ridiculous. “The problems with pensions lies at the top scale, where we have 500 public sector workers

receiving collectively €50m a year. “Yet any time Sinn Féin calls for curbs on such largesse, the Government is the first to defend the payments. “Fine Gael and Minister Donohoe only care about their own, and their own are on big money. “Sinn Féin will continue to defend the rights of low to middle-income workers and pensioners who make up the vast majority of households.”

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

T&C Motors Inner Ring Road,Waterford Tel: 051 872959 www.tandcmotors.ie

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Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

Ray Moloney and Gabriel Foley, both from Waterford City and County Council pictured with Cathaoirleach of Dungarvan and Lismore Municipal District, Councillor Damien Geoghegan at the unveiling of the 1916 monument in Dungarvan Town Park, The Lookout, Dungarvan. [David Clynch Photography] The 1916 commemorative monument in Dungarvan Town Park, The Lookout, Dungarvan.

[David Clynch Photography]

Chloe, Anne and Charlene O'Dwyer from Dungarvan pictured at the unveiling of the 1916 commemorative monument in Dungarvan Town Park, The Lookout, Dungarvan. [David Clynch Photography] County Archivist, Joanne Rothwell; Heritage Officer, Bernadette Guest; City Librarian, Jane Cantwell; County Arts Officer, Margaret Organ and Irish Officer, Maire Seo Breathnach pictured at the unveiling of th 1916 monument in Dungarvan Town Park, The Lookout, Dungarvan. [David Clynch Photography]

Members of Comhairle na nOgh Rian O Donnchu from Abbeyside, Saoirse Ni Argain from Dungarvan and Gearoid Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Donovan from Dungarvan pictured at the unveiling of the 1916 commemorative monument in Dungarvan Town Park, The Lookout, Dungarvan. [David Clynch Photography]

Thomas Phelan from Ballinroad, Chairman of the Commemoration Committee Ger Crotty and Tony McSweeney from Waterford city pictured at the unveiling of th 1916 monument in Dungarvan Town Park, The Lookout, Dungarvan. [David Clynch Photography]

John and Bridget Lonergan from Modeligo pictured with Helena and Mary Burke both from Dungarvan pictured at the unveiling of the 1916 commemorative monument in Dungarvan Town Park, The Lookout, Dungarvan. [David Clynch Photography]

Members of Dungarvan School of Trad performing at the unveiling of the 1916 monument in Dungarvan Town Park, The Lookout, Dungarvan. [David Clynch Photography]

Cathaoirleach of Dungarvan and Lismore Municipal District, Councillor Damien Geoghegan pictured with Pat Geoghegan from Dungarvan, Councillor James Tobin and Councillor Declan Doocey at the unveiling of the 1916 commemorative monument in Dungarvan Town Park, The Lookout, Dungarvan. [David Clynch Photography]

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

NEWS

1916 Commemorations come to a close with unveiling of Commemorative monuments AFTER a busy commemorative year with over 80 events reflecting the 1916 rising Waterford’s commemorations concluded last Thursday, December 22nd with the unveiling of permanent memorials in both Dungarvan and Waterford City. Unveiling the memorial in the park at the Lookout, Mayor Adam Wyse commented it was considered only right and fitting that the centenary of 1916 be marked through a permanent reminder as a legacy project of the commemoration. “The outcome is an architectural design and artistic collaboration and the installation of two impressive and distinctive memorials in Dungarvan and Waterford City. Each memorial is reflective of its context with the stone based memorial in Dungarvan comprising stone from the four provinces-

Valentia Slate, Connacht Limestone, Mourne Granite and Wicklow Granite. The memorial appropriately views across Dungarvan Bay to An Rinn - home of Seán Ó Griofain and Liam Ó Reagáin, two Waterford men involved in the rising. The memorial event was attended by members of Dungarvan School of Trad, members of Comhairle na nÓg who read the proclamation and singer Ann Mulqueen who sang April 1916. Chairman of the Commemoration Committee Ger Crotty commended the work of Council Architect Rupert Maddock and his team who worked expeditiously in collaboration with artists Liam Rafferty and Eithne Ring on designing and procuring the memorials. He also thanked the presentation and area crews of Waterford City and

County Council who sited and landscaped the memorial. The Waterford City memorial is sited in front of the Bishop’s Palace on the Mall and comprises a cantilevered stainless steel structure presenting the proclamation to the observing visitor.The proclamations were cast in a Foundry in Brittany in France that has produced previously commended work in Waterford such as the bronze sculptures of Strongbow and Aoife. Their work also includes the bells of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris Mayor Adam Wyse in his concluding remarks said “It is a legacy of a truly remarkable centenary year and a reminder to the residents and visitors of County Waterford of our history and a modern pointer to our nation’s future.”

Mayor of Waterford City and County Council, Councillor Adam Wyse pictured with Cathaoirleath of Dungarvan/Lismore Municipal District, Councillor Damien Geoghegan, Councillor Eddie Mulligan, Councillor Tom Cronin, Councillor Pat Fitzgerald, Councillor James Tobin, Councillor Siobhan Whelan, Councillor Michael J. O'Ryan, Councillor Declan Doocey, Councillor Pat Nugent and Councillor John Pratt at the unveiling of the 1916 commemorative monument in Dungarvan Town Park, The Lookout, Dungarvan. [David Clynch Photography]

Chairman of the Commemoration Committee Ger Crotty pictured with Jane Cantwell, City Librarian and the Mayor of Waterford City and County Council, Councillor Adam Wyse at the unveiling of the 1916 monument in Dungarvan Town Park, The Lookout, Dungarvan. [David Clynch Photography]

Mayor of Waterford City and County Council, Councillor Adam Wyse pictured with Councillor Eddie Mulligan, Councillor Tom Cronin, Councillor Michael J. O'Ryan and Councillor James Tobin at the unveiling of the 1916 commemorative monument in Dungarvan Town Park, The Lookout, Dungarvan. [David Clynch Photography]

Chairman of the Commemoration Committee Ger Crotty and Jane Cantwell, City Librarian, pictured with at the unveiling of the 1916 monument in [David Clynch Photography] Dungarvan Town Park, The Lookout, Dungarvan.

REVIEW OF THE YEAR

20 1 6 JANUARY

i n Rev i ew

FEBRUARY

Submissions sought on revised EIS for wind farm

THE estimate of damages sought by Waterford City and County Council to carry out repairs to roads and areas damaged by the severe weather and flooding over the Christmas period has increased from the initial estimate of €21m made earlier in January. At the January meeting of Comeragh District Council, Senior Engineer, Pat McCarthy confirmed that the estimate of damages “has gone up” since the initial €21m estimate was made at the Plenary meeting of the Council. “The estimate of damages increases as we get around to the different roads,” Mr. McCarthy said.

RESIDENTS of the Drumhills, Dungarvan have been asked to make submissions on a ‘revised Environmental Impact Statement’ in relation to a proposed wind farm. Ecopower Development Limited had applied to construct 12 wind turbines, 126.6 metres in height, on the top of Drumhills which was rejected by Waterford Council. This decision was appealed to An Bord Planala by Ecopower. (Board reference: PL93.244006). On the 5th February, 2016 residents of the Drumhills area of Dungarvan were informed by An Bord Pleanála: “The Board is of opinion that, in the particular circumstances of this appeal, it is appropriate in the interests of justice to request you to make submissions or observations in relation to the revised Environmental Impact Statement Ecopower Developments Limited submitted to An Bord Pleanála on the 19th of August, 2015.” One of the revisions to Ecopowers plan is for the construction traffic to use the local Strikes Hill Road, which travels past the local Glenbeg National School.

Waterford counts the cost … COUNTY Waterford did not escape the devastation of the weather fronts over the Christmas holidays, with road closures due to severe flooding and many homes left without electricity.The most recent weather front - Storm Frank - which made landfall over 29th, 30th and 31st December, caused the most damage and flooding in many areas of County Waterford that has not been seen in living memory. The Council is still counting the cost of the damage, which will likely run into millions of euro. An assessment of the damage is expected to be submitted to the government and the Council will await a response on the amount of funding they will receive to repair the damage caused by the storm. Sections of the N25 and N72 were completely flooded during Storm Frank, resulting in road closures, while many homes, businesses and farms were affected by flood water, as the Rivers Colligan, Blackwater and Clodagh and other contributory rivers and streams burst their banks due to unprecedented levels of rainfall.

Anger in Portlaw over third wind turbine RESIDENTS in the Portlaw area have reacted with absolute fury over a decision by An Bord Pleanála to allow a third wind turbine to be erected at Beallough, overlooking the scenic Curraghmore Estate, despite a recommendation from its Planning Inspector to refuse permission. Many residents of the area expressed their disappointment at the decision to allow the wind turbine to go ahead. The ninth Marquis of Waterford, Henry de la Poer Beresford, (Lord Waterford and Earl of Tyrone) and owner of Curraghmore House and Estate said he was “very disappointed” by An Bord Pleanála’s decision. Currently there are two existing wind turbines owned by Tornado Electric Limited overlooking Curraghmore.

Helena Hogan, Megan Roche and Amy Whelan pictured at the Stradbally GAA Club Victory Social in The Park Hotel, Dungarvan.[Sean Byrne//Deise Media]

Wind turbine noise levels found to be ‘compliant’

Environment awards for GSK and Dawn Meats TWO of County Waterford’s largest employers have won accolades at the recent IBEC Environment Awards Dungarvan-based GlaxoSmithKline won the overall Environmental Excellence Award, as well as the Process Award, while Dawn Meats, Carroll’s Cross, was awarded the runner-up prize in the Process category. GSK trumped thirty companies across all sectors of Irish business to take the overall Environmental Excellence Award and also received the Process Category Award for 2015 / 2016. The company undertook structured mapping of their energy usage on site, devoting a week to the task and identified 53 energy saving projects on site. The company then developed a four year plan to redesign the current operational processes to reduce energy consumption.

€20m approved for new Community Hospital FUNDING of over €20m has been approved for the replacement of St. Joseph’s District and Dungarvan Community Hospital. Local Labour TD, Ciara Conway describing it as “positive news for Dungarvan and West Waterford” and “an unprecedented investment package for public nursing homes”. Waterford Minister Paudie Coffey said he was pleased that €20m worth of funding has been allocated to St. Joseph Hospital and Dungarvan District Hospital for a residential care home. “This is a significant investment in our Health Service in Waterford and shows that Fine Gael and Labour in office are delivering in the worst of times what Fianna Fail never delivered in the best of times,” said Minister Coffey. “It is essential that we keep our economic recovery going so that these types of investments are delivered over the coming years.”

MARCH

Initial cost of flood damage has ‘gone up’

The N72 road from Lismore to Dungarvan which was flooded during the December storms.

Dylan Murphy pictured at Davitt’s Quay, Dungarvan, where he bravely dived into freezing cold waters to rescue a woman and bring her to safety on 20th December, 2015.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

RESIDENTS who complained about excessive noise levels from two wind turbines in Ballycurreen, Ring, have had their concerns dismissed after a lengthy monitoring exercise decided that the emissions were ‘compliant’ with wind energy guidelines. The outcome has brought calls from Municipal District Councillors to have the 2006 guidelines on wind energy development to be updated. Last year, at the instigation of Dungarvan-Lismore Municipal District Councillors,Waterford Council commissioned Infrasonic Ltd., to monitor the turbines at Rathnameneenagh, Ballycurreen. Householders living as far away as 1.2 km had complained of noise levels exceeding 75 decibels..

Clonea Hotel car park ‘not closed’ to the public A SPOKESMAN for Clonea Strand Hotel Ltd., which is now also a refugee Reception and Orientation Centre, has dismissed allegations that the facility’s car park is no longer available for public use. Mr. Mark Knowles, whose family own the hotel as part of its golf, tourism and sporting interests in the area, says social media postings to the contrary are inaccurate and misleading. “We have never refused anyone the use of the car park when it is available and that is the ongoing situation,” the spokesman insists, adding that access barriers are simply “a safety measure” that will be deployed when need be. The clarification comes after March’s Dungarvan-Lismore Municipal District Council meeting broadly condemned the alleged closure of the privately owned car park, with the insinuation that a barrier would now permanently deny public access to the privately-owned facility.

Proposed wind farm for Nire Valley refused AN Bord Pleanála has refused permission for a wind farm in the Nire Valley, saying it would “impact detrimentally on the environmental quality and scenic landscape of the area”. Waterford City and County Council had previously refused permission by applicant Pat Brett, of Ecopower Developments Ltd., to erect eight wind turbines (with overall height of up to 127 metres), and associated site works, at townlands near Ballymacarbry, including Bawnfune, Sillaheens, Curraheenavoher, Russellstown, Boolabrien Upper, and Russellstown New. (Planning ref: 1551).The planning application drew over 170 submissions from various community groups, local residents and other groups.

€7m fund for flood damage ‘a disgrace’ A FUND of €7m given to Waterford Council to address damage the destruction coused throughout the county by flooding and storms over the Christmas period was labelled “a disgrace,” considering that the Council had sought over €19.5m for the damage caused. Senior Engineer, Pat McCarthy confirmed at the February meeting of Comeragh District Council that a ‘first tranche’ of money - €7m – was awarded to the Council earlier this week by central government. However, Cll. Michael J. O’Ryan rounded on the government, saying they have placed Waterford “at the bottom of the pile.” “The €7m from central government for our flood relief is a disgrace – we put in for €19.5m,” he said.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee are proud to present this certificate to Jim Veale on behalf of the people of Dungarvan, Abbeyside and West Waterford in appreciation and recognition of his outstanding civic contribution of 40 years’ voluntary service as honorary chairman of Dungarvan Saint Patrick's Day Parade Committee. (L. to r.): Cllr. Tom Cronin, Cathaoirleach of Dungarvan-Lismore District also making a presentation on behalf of Waterford City and County Council to Jim Veale, Chairman, St. Patrick's Day Parade Committee; Joan Clancy. [Pat Crowley]

Rural school and community hall targeted in burglary GARDAÍ are investigating a number of burglaries which occurred in rural West Waterford area over the past seven days, including a breakin to a rural school and community hall. Criminals broke into Whitechurch National School, Ballinameela, Cappagh, and stole laptops sometime between Sunday evening, 20th March, and Monday morning, 21st March. The Community Centre in Ballinameela was also targeted, but the culprits left empty-handed. It is understood community halls and schools are a likely target for criminals, particularly when schools are closed during the holidays.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

APRIL

REVIEW OF THE YEAR

MAY

New bin charges to ‘encourage’ Fines being considered recycling for householders not THE new pay-by-weight regime for bin collections “is geared towards separating their waste encouraging households to recycle,” yet hard-pressed families, particularly larger families, will likely find their bin collection charges increasing. From 1st July 2016, the current flat-rate charge moves to a system based on the weight of the household’s rubbish. All bin collection companies must charge their customers based on the weight of the rubbish. Property tax paid by households does not cover bin charges, which households are forced to pay for separately. On top of paying a price per kilo of rubbish, households can also be slapped with an annual service charge by the bin collectors, driving up the cost of waste collection.

‘Global exposure’ for Lismore Biscuits with Harrods’ contract

Lismore Food Company (Owen Madden, Beth-Ann Smith and Ken Madden). [Anthony Woods] LISMORE Food Company spokesman Ken Madden says the company’s access to Harrods’ food hall in London provides invaluable exposure to global markets. Mr. Madden was speaking after Lismore Foods, of which he is co-owner with his partner Beth-Ann Smith and his brother Owen, signed a roll-on contract with the famous ‘Queen’s grocers’. The Lismore Food Company announced that four of their fine sweet biscuit flavours will be on the shelves of the acclaimed Food Halls of Harrods, one of the world’s largest and most renowned department stores.

Government services needed to support rural post offices A COMERAGH area Councillor is asking Waterford Council to back a motion demanding the Department of Social Protection support rural post offices through the payment of social welfare to recipients. The Department of Social Protection has recently advised welfare claimants to claim their benefits through their banks, rather than the local post offices - something which Cllr. Michael J. O’Ryan said he was made aware of recently. At a meeting of Comeragh District Council, Cllr. O’Ryan expressed his “disappointment” when he heard the Department of Social Protection actively encouraging social welfare recipients and household benefit package applicants away from the local post office to more central locations.

Businesses enraged over proposal to close Main Street BUSINESSES based around Dungarvan centre are up in arms over the disruption caused by the Smarter Travel works on Grattan Square, but they have recently been further enraged after it was revealed the contractor is proposing to close Main Street for a month. Wills Brothers Construction, the contractor who is carrying out the work, are proposing to begin work on Main Street around 7th June, 2016, which is expected to take up to four weeks. However, it is also proposed that a road closure will be necessary for the majority of this time due to the width of the street and the number of underground services.

Council will be rigorous on debt collection THE Chief Executive of Waterford City and County Council said the local authority will be “rigorous” in the collection of any debt, such as outstanding development contributions, and while the Council will look at hardship cases, “we won’t be listening to fairy stories!” Mr. Walsh delivered his strong words at the April meeting of Waterford City and County Council, following concerns raised by several Councillors about people receiving ‘threatening’ letters from the Council in relation to unpaid development contributions.

Easter Rising commemorated in Dungarvan and Waterford FLAG raising ceremonies were held in Dungarvan and Waterford last Sunday to commemorate the official date of the 1916 Easter Rising - a pivotal moment in Irish history. A large crowd gathered outside the Civic Offices in Dungarvan at 3.00 p.m. on Sunday, 24th April, to hear Ballyduff Upper’s Captain Stephen Molumphy of the Irish Defence Forces read the Proclamation, while Lieutenant Shane Flood, from Passage East, raised the Irish Tricolour. Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. John Cummins, laid a wreath during both events.

HOUSEHOLDERS could soon be fined for not separating their waste properly or if they are unable to show they have a bin collection company collecting their waste under new proposed bye-laws to be considered. At a meeting of Waterford City and County Council, Cllr. Davy Daniels noted in the monthly management report that the Southern Region Waste Management Office are reviewing byelaws in each local authority in the South East. The review will take into account a proposed fixed charge penalty notice provision for households not separating their waste properly; and for households which cannot demonstrate they have an authorised waste collection service, or are not managing their waste. It is expected a draft of new bye-laws will be available for review in the third quarter of 2016.

JUNE U2 in town to pay respects to late Tour Manager Dennis Sheehan IRISH rock band U2 were in Dungarvan to attend the first Anniversary Mass of their late Tour Manager and friend, Dennis Sheehan. Dennis, who was U2’s Tour Manager for 33 years, passed away of a suspected heart attack on 27th May, 2015, in Los Angeles, where U2 were performing as part of their ‘Innocence and Experience’ Tour. His untimely death shocked and stunned the local community. Dennis, who lived in Ballyconnery, Dungarvan, was considered a great Ambassador for the town.

Anger as consultant defers data request to solicitor AN engineering consultant hired by Waterford Council to monitor noise levels at a wind farm in Ring has deferred a request for the ‘raw data’ acquired in his research to his company’s solicitor. The move has angered Dungarvan Lismore Municipal District Councillors who feel the Council have an automatic right to the data, in accordance with having agreed to pay the consultant approximately €14,000 for his services. Last year the Council recruited Dr. John Mahon of Dublin-based acoustics and vibration consultancy firm Infrasonic Ltd., to monitor noise levels from two turbines at Ballycurreen, following complaints from four nearby residents, understood to be a single family. Last February Dr. Mahon, who holds a BA and BAI in Mechanical Engineering and a PhD in vibrations from TCD, reported that the omission levels by day and by night were compliant with the government’s Wind Energy Development Guidelines 2006. However, the residents insist that the noise levels are intrusive.

Council wants new bin charges regime deferred WATERFORD Council is to write to the new Minister for Environment, Simon Coveney, seeking him to defer the introduction of the pay-by-weight bin charges regime due to begin on 1st July 2016. Currently, most households pay a flat-rate fixed charge to have their bins lifted. The regime of charging householders for the weight of their rubbish was brought in by former Environment Minister Alan Kelly. At the May meeting of Waterford Council, Cllr. Davy Daniels again lashed out at the government for the lack of information to households about the new bin charge regime which is due to begin in seven weeks time. “There has been no information whatsoever about the cost of waste collection and the government introducing legislation which bans individual bags,” Cllr. Daniels said. “It is most unfair that this legislation was introduced and it will cause hardship for many people.” Cllr. Daniels proposed the Council write to the Minister asking that the pay-by-weight charges are deferred indefinitely, which was seconded by Cllr. Cha O’Neill.

U2’s visit to Dungarvan. Pictured outside Downey's Bar, Main Street, Dungarvan, are left to right: Adam Clayton; Joe O’Herlihy (U2 Sound Engineer); Bono; John McGrath (owner Downey's Bar); The Edge and Larry Mullen Jnr.

New Primary Care Centre for Dungarvan CONSTRUCTION of a new Primary Care Centre for Dungarvan was confirmed by the Department of Health. Dungarvan will be one of 14 new Primary Care Centres to be built around Ireland, including one in Waterford City, and will be funded as a Public-Private-Partnership with support from the European Investment Bank (EIB), following agreement of a new €70m 25-year-loan from the EIB. The new Primary Care Centre will be constructed on the grounds of Dungarvan Community Hospital. The Primary Care Centre will provide basic health services, including GP surgeries, occupational therapy, social work and dietary advice. Some locations will also have additional services, such as mental health, dentistry and addiction services, as well as a local ambulance base.

Sinead dances in Croke Park Commemoration LOCAL dancer Sinead Kiely from Ballinamult was one of the performers from around the country, who took part in the spectacular Laochra show. This was a theatrical production dedicated to telling the story of Ireland by showcasing the best aspects of Irish creative culture, in Croke Park, in front of a packed stadium as part of the GAA 1916 commemoration celebrations.The 'Laochra' show was billed as an exuberant “celebration of our national identity” and took place after the National Football League Final between Dublin and Kerry. This was truly an amazing occasion and Sinead did Waterford proud with her performance on the day. Sinead was only back from two weeks performing with 'Celtic Dance' at various venues in France. She is a member of the Ryan School of Irish Dancing and is a sister to the well known dancer and teacher, Deirdra Kiely, who teaches in Dungarvan and a number of other locations in West Waterford and South Tipperary.

Litter louts cost Council €18k in road clean-up WA T E R F O R D Council was forced to spend an outrageous €18,000 in a nine day clean-up of a stretch of road in the county due to litter louts throwing their rubbish from car windows. Councillors reacted with anger at the May meeting of Comeragh District Council when the cost of the clean-up was revealed, which represents nearly one-quarter (25 percent) of their annual road budget.The stretch of road, the R680 between Kilmeaden and Carrickon-Suir, was severely littered and due to health and safety reasons, only the Council can carry out a clean-up of the road, because it is an extremely busy route and requires traffic management.The length of road between Kilmeaden and Carrick-on-Suir is around 18 km in distance, meaning the Council spent an average of €1,000 per kilometre to pick up litter. The recent expenditure for the clean-up of the R680 will be a severe blow to the Council’s efforts to repair roads around the Comeragh District.

Artist’s impression of the completed Primary Care Centre at Dungarvan Community Hospital.

Eurofins to create 160 more jobs EUROFINS Lancaster Laboratories, which is based at IDA Dungarvan Business Park, is set to create over 160 new jobs in a major expansion, which will increase its workforce to over 500 by 2021. The expansion of the company includes development of a new building, as well as expansion at the current facility. Eurofins Lancaster Laboratories said the project is another example of their commitment of Eurofins Scientific to continued growth and investment in its laboratory operations in the region. The development will see an additional 4,400 m2 extension to the existing 2,700 m2 laboratory, and development of a 1,800 m2 second site, bringing the company’s capacity to almost 9,000 m2 of state-of-the-art laboratory surface to serve the biopharmaceutical industry in Ireland and internationally. Building work is expected to commence in the fourth quarter of this year.

Chamber wants work on Grattan Square halted until Winter DUNGARVAN and West Waterford Chamber has called on the Smarter Travel contractors to halt their work in Grattan Square and continue the project during the Winter months, while Waterford City and County Council has stated they will formally stop the contractor from opening further areas “until current work spaces are completed”.The Chamber’s call to halt the works comes as businesses in the Square are haemorrhaging money at an alarming rate due to a decrease in footfall, visitors and trade inconvenienced by the works. There is growing anger amongst the business people. Coming into the Summer months, Grattan Square is usually a hive of activity with tourists and visitors to the town centre, but with the ongoing works, there is an obvious reduction in footfall to the area - this is despite the Council offering an hour and a half free parking in Scanlon’s Yard car park while the work is ongoing.

REVIEW OF THE YEAR

JULY

AUGUST

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

SEPTEMBER

Households given 12 months ‘reprieve’ from pay-by-weight bin charges

Neighbouring towns benefit from Grattan Square saga

Irish Water seeks permission for new Ring water scheme

HOUSEHOLDS have been granted another ‘reprieve’ of 12 months to get used to the new pay-by-weight charging regime for waste collection. The decision to delay the introduction of the pay-by-weight regime by another 12 month comes after Minister for the Environment, Simon Coveney accused some waste operators of using the confusion over the new charging system to hike prices to make up for financial losses. Waterford City and County Council wrote to Minister Coveney asking him to defer the new bin pricing regime. Councillors expressed their disappointment at the June meeting of the local authority that there had been no response from the Minister. However, last week, it was confirmed that waste collection charges would be ‘frozen’ for the next 12 months and the controversial pay-by-weight regime will not be introduced until at least July, 2017.

TWO west Waterford companies with origins over 200 years apart, have amassed one 3-gold star and four 2-gold stars at this year’s highly prestigious inter-national Great Taste awards in Britain. County Waterford was also associated with a further 2-gold star award and two 1-gold star awards. Lismore Food Company, which was founded in 2014, enhanced its growing international reputation when its Caraway and Irish Seaweed savoury biscuit scooped a top accolade of 3-gold stars, one of just 13 Irish companies to do so. The company was also awarded 2-gold star merit for its sweet Lemon Polenta biscuit.

IRISH Water has applied for planning permission for construction of works in relation to a new water source for Ring / Helvick. The utility company has sought permission from Waterford City and County Council to construct a pumping station, enclosed building and all associated site works and infrastructure at Clogherane (Springmount), Dungarvan. Irish Water have also applied to develop infrastructure for Ring Helvick Water Supply Scheme comprising of two water storage reservoirs, a control building, and associated site works and infrastructure, at Gort na Daibhche Uachtarach, An Rinn (Gortnadiha Upper, Ring). In a statement, Irish Water said it is to invest over €7million for the new water supply for the communities in Ring with a new Water Supply for Ring Helvick area as well.

Over €2m in payments to Councillors since local elections JUST over €2m has been paid out to the 32 members of Waterford City and County Council in payments and expenses since they were elected to the new amalgamated local authority in June, 2014. According to the figures released by Waterford City and County Council, which are freely available for public scrutiny - they reveal the total remuneration the 32 Councillors received over the last two years amounts to €2,006,155. In a breakdown of that figure, from June to December, 2014, a total of €551,369.30 was paid; while in 2015 (January to December) they received a payout of €952,944.40; and in the first six months of this year, the 32 members received €501,841.60. Some Councillors will earn more than others if they were elected as Mayor of the Plenary Council/ Cathaoirleach of the District Councils; and held the position of Chairperson of SPCs and other sub-committees.

International McGrath Clan Gathering 2016. Group of McGraths from Australia pictured at Lismore Castle during the McGrath Heritage Tour. The McGrath Clan Gathering was held in Dungarvan.

Calls for review into N25 safety A COMERAGH Councillor has described the N25 network as “not fit for purpose” and has called on Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) to meet with elected representatives to discuss their concerns about safety on the primary route through County Waterford. Incoming Cathaoirleach of Comeragh Municipal District Council, Cllr. John O’Leary told the June meeting of the local authority that the N25 “has become unfit for purpose due to the amount of traffic” it now takes, especially from the M9 motorway. He said there shouldn’t be a situation where motorway traffic comes as far as the Carrick-on-Suir roundabout and is then diverted into a two-way system. “The volume of traffic of that road is on a continuous basis,” he said. Cllr. O’Leary said over the last 12 months he has raised concern about TII removing left and right turning lanes onto local roads from the N25, yet there has been “very little done” to address his road safety concerns.

New group of refugees to arrive at Clonea Strand in September A LARGE group of refugees who were displaced by the Syrian conflict and were accommodated at Clonea Strand Hotel, Dungarvan, for the past eight months, have been given permanent accommodation elsewhere in Ireland, while a new group of refugees are expected to arrive in September. A spokesperson for the Department of Justice confirmed to this newspaper that those 90 refugees “have completed their initial language training and orientation programme and have been transferred to permanent accommodation elsewhere in Ireland”. Clonea Strand Hotel is currently being prepared for the next batch of refugees in September. They have been security screened and are in the process of being health screened at present. They are expected to arrive by the end of September. A further 260 refugees will be admitted to Ireland from Lebanon in 2017.The spokesperson pointed out that the EROC in Dungarvan is being used for the long-standing ‘Irish Refugee Resettlement Programme’ which dates back to 2000 and is not being used for the EU ‘Relocation Programme’ from Italy and Greece.

WATERFORD Council is to refer to its bye-law provisions to ascertain whether Dungarvan-Lismore Municipal District Council has the authority to retain a free parking provision at Scanlon’s Yard, Dungarvan. A strong difference of opinion emerged between the Council’s Executive and Councillors at July’s Municipal District meeting after the Councillors supported a motion to extend indefinitely the car park’s current 90 minute free parking regime. The issue drew some frank exchanges from Cathaoirleach Damien Geoghegan, who tabled the motion.The Council-owned site, with 171 spaces, has traditionally been a pay parking facility but the 90 minute allowance was introduced to compensate for disruptions during the Grattan Square renovations.

WATERFORD City and County Council will consider some type of fitting and permanent memorial to all those people who have tragically lost their lives in or along the old railway route which now forms the new Greenway. Director of Services, Fergus Galvin told the July meeting of Comeragh Municipal District Council that a number of requests have been received from various communities seeking to have some type of acknowledgement, such as naming different elements of the Greenway after people who have been killed, or died along the old railway, or who have died in tragic accidents along the N25 and other interconnecting roads with the Greenway.

Ready, Steady, Bake - The Little Mill Company’s Sean O’Shea, Kathy Purcell and Steven Hanley, promoting the search for Ireland’s next Best Baker at the Waterford Harvest Festival.

Five more wind turbines allowed in Council’s Energy Strategy

War of words at UHW over downgrading of cardiac services risk

Grange man behind biggest computer game in the world

Council to consider memorial along old railway line

CONTROVERSY has sprung up following the recent ceremony of Remembrance which took place at the World War I monument in Dungarvan, after it was discovered that ex-British army officers from the north attended the event. The third annual ceremony of Remembrance for Waterford families was held on Sunday, 28th August and was attended by a large number of people which included the Canadian Ambassador, Kevin Vickers. However, local Councillor Siobhán Whelan (SF) claimed a ‘group of motorcyclists’ who came from Northern Ireland and laid a wreath at the Remembrance event, were a branch of the British Legion based in Dungannon, County Tyrone. She called on the organisers of the Remembrance event to immediately clarify their list of attendees, and expressed concerns that ex-British army members from the north would have attended the event.

WATERFORD City and County Council has approved its 15 year Renewable Energy Strategy which sets out the energy requirement for Waterford until the year 2030 and allows for five more wind turbines to what is already granted or operational. The passing of the draft Renewable Energy Strategy means that a community somewhere in the county will be subject to five new turbines between now and 2030. Director of Services, Lar Power, pointed out that currently, there are no targets set for wind energy in Waterford and each planning application for wind turbines is vetted on its own merits. Mr. Power said the Renewable Energy Strategy as part of the Council’s Development Plan, will inform future development plans and will also inform them when certain targets are met.

Council resists call to retain 90 minutes free parking

ONE of the most anticipated video games to be released in years - ‘No Man’s Sky’ - which has grabbed the imagination of gamers worldwide, is the brainchild of a West Waterford native and his small team of computer programmers. Sean Murray, a native of Grange, County Waterford, and former pupil of CBS Dungarvan, has appeared on American television and various other media outlets to answer questions and demonstrate the unique game, which is expected to top the charts when it is released later in August.

Controversy over attendance of northern ex-British army officers at Remembrance ceremony

Thomas Aherne from Dungarvan and Emma Corbett from Clonmel, who came first in the Duet age 15 to 18 category at the 2016 Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann All-Ireland Fleadh Cheoil in Ennis. [Loretto O Loughlin/www.instantimageireland.com]

Helvick fishing industry could face ruin because of ‘Brexit’ – Fitzgerald A WATERFORD City and County Councillor has warned that fishing ports along the coastline, such as Helvick, could face complete ruin following England’s decision to leave the EU. Cllr. Pat Fitzgerald said the Irish fishing industry could be decimated, with fishing ports along the East and South coast having the most to lose following Britain’s vote to exit the European Union (commonly titled as ‘Brexit’) because Irish fishermen working from these ports have previously shared fishing grounds with their British counterparts. Cllr. Fitzgerald said if England decides to withdraw these ‘shared grounds’ as part of Brexit, then fishing ports like Helvick, Dunmore East and Kilmore Quay could face ruin. He said this makes it all the more important for the government to step up to the plate and negotiate with the EU for a better deal for the Irish Fishing Industry.

A WAR of words has broken out between management and staff at University Hospital Waterford over revelations that the measure of risk posed to cardiology patients by the lack of cardiac services at UHW was downgraded from a 20 to 16 at the end of August - just a fortnight before the controversial Herity report, which concluded that UHW did not need a second cath lab. Staff at the hospital say they were unaware the risk level was revised from a 20 (out of a possible 25) down to a 16. A short statement from UHW management said: “The current risk rating for cardiology unit at UHW is 20 and Red.This rating has not changed in the last six months.” However, it is understood that at a meeting at UHW, it was stated that the risk figure was altered from a 20 to a 16 without the knowledge of staff at the hospital. Questions are now being asked as to who changed the figure in a life or death situation.

Councillors reject proposed 7.5% increase in LPT WATERFORD City and County Councillors were unanimous in their rejection of a proposal to increase the Local Property Tax by 7.5 percent for 2017. At a meeting held in Dungarvan Chief Executive of the Council, Michael Walsh laid out the case for an increase in the LPT, saying the alternative is a reduced investment in assets and a reduced level of service over the current year. However, all of the 32 elected members rejected the proposal, saying an increase in the LPT would put too much pressure on already struggling householders and citizens, who have had to bear the brunt of Fine Gael’s austerity regime through new taxes and increased charges.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

REVIEW OF THE YEAR

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

FF remains committed to restoring Town Councils

Local heroes honoured with National Bravery Award

Repeated vandalism of traffic lights endangers road users

FIANNA Fáil leader Micheál Martin says his party remains committed to restoring Town Councils if and when it is returned to power. Mr. Martin reiterated the commitment as contained in the party’s 2016 General Election manifesto, but declined to elaborate as to the level of self-funding and revenue gathering the re-instigated local authorities would enjoy. Neither is the commitment accompanied by a proposal to reverse the amalgamation of City and County Councils. The Fianna Fáil leader was speaking during a visit to Dungarvan, where he officially opened the new constituency office of Waterford TD Mary Butler on O’Connell Street. The 2016 manifesto committed the party not just to restoring the 80 abolished town councils but also to providing similar structures to all towns with a population exceeding 7,500.

TWO local heroes who rescued two people from the River Colligan in Dungarvan were recognised for their outstanding acts of bravery when they were presented with a ‘National Bravery Award’ last week by Ceann Comhairle, Seán Ó Fearghaíl. A ‘Certificate of Bravery’ was presented to local youth, Dylan Murphy for rescuing a woman from Dungarvan Harbour last Christmas, and to Garda David Hearne, a native of Fethard-on-Sea, but stationed in Waterford, who rescued a man from the River Colligan in 2014. The honours are awarded by Comhairle na Mire Gaile – the Deeds of Bravery Council – at a national ceremony held in Farmleigh House, Dublin.

THE safety of motorists and road users at Knocknamullig, near Kilmanahan, on the Dungarvan to Clonmel Road (R671) has been placed in jeopardy due to vandalism caused to the temporary traffic lights which are erected while works are ongoing to alleviate flooding issues at the location. At a meeting of Comeragh Municipal District Council, Cllr. Michael J. O’Ryan said he has had to ring an emergency ‘out of hours’ telephone line on at least six occasions over a period of five weeks because the traffic lights were ‘out of order’. The works involve raising the road by one metre to alleviate flooding issues. District Engineer Eamon Lonergan said: “It is very serious what is happening at the location and it is very dangerous at night because it can be pitch black.”

OCTOBER

National Quality Milk Awards Presented to Top Dairy Farmers who are #MADEFORTHIS. The country’s top prize for best milk quality has been awarded to Tom and Moya Power, from Drumhills Farm, Cappagh, County Waterford, who supply their milk to Glanbia Ingredients Ireland Ltd. Winners Tom and Moya Power were accompanied by Tom’s parents Jim and Brid Power and received a prize of €5,000 and the coveted NDC & Kerrygold Quality Milk Awards perpetual cup. Pictured at the Quality Milks awards are: (l. to r.): Overall winners, Brid Power, Tom Power, Jim Power and Moya Power.

Master of Ceremonies, Bobby Kerr, entrepreneur and Dragon’s Den fame (centre) presenting Gerard Horgan, General Manager (left); and Patrick O’Farrell, Garage Manager (right) with the ‘Munster’s Best LCV / HCV Independent Workshop’ Award at the Irish Auto Trade Awards held in Dublin recently.

Municipal Council split over rural braodband provision

Munster Truck & Trailer Services win National Award

WATERFORD Councillors Declan Doocey and Tom Cronin have called on the local authority to ‘encourage and assist’ small, private broadband providers as best it can to expand their services to help save jobs in rural regions. However, their views were dismissed by Dungarvan-Lismore Municipal District Chairman Cllr. Damien Geoghegan and Cllr. James Tobin, who believe a State rollout represents the only realistic prospect for a fastspeed broadband system. The issue arose at October’s Municipal District meeting when Cllr. Pat Nugent reported that people working from home in the Aglish area feared for their livelihoods due to the poor service. “What advice or guidance can we offer them? What pressure can we apply on their behalf?” he asked.

A DUNGARVAN business has taken top honours at this year’s prestigious Irish Auto Trade Awards. Munster Truck & Trailer Services, Garryduff, Colligan, Dungarvan, were awarded ‘Munster’s Best LCV/HCV Independent Workshop 2017’ at the gala event held in City West Hotel, Dublin.The event, which was presided over by well-known entrepreneur Bobby Kerr of Dragon’s Den fame, celebrates the best in Ireland’s auto trade industry. NSAI certified Munster Truck & Trailer Services offers comprehensive services ranging from fleet management to tachograph calibration and installation, and from preventative maintenance to CVRT preparation. “We are very proud to have grown our business to best in class since we opened in 2010,” said Director, Gerard Horgan.

Time running out for Council to erect 1916 monuments THE race is on for Waterford Council to have two permanent memorials erected to commemorate 1916 before the end of the year. At the October meeting of Waterford City and County Council, Cllr. Damien Geoghegan said Councillors were informed several weeks ago that there could be the distinct possibility that the two permanent memorials (one for Dungarvan and one for Waterford City) may not be erected in 2016.The Council is proposing to erect the Dungarvan monument at Gibbons Town Park at the Lookout, adjacent to the Bandstand, while there is a proposal to erect the city monument in front of the Bishop’s Palace. Director of Services, Michael Quinn, responded that the Council will work with the architect’s department for a quick turnround to ensure the monuments are in place and unveiled in the current year.

Proposed wind farm in Waterford could be affected by Kildare decision A DECISION by An Bord Pleanála to refuse a large scale wind farm in North County Kildare in the absence of any ‘national wind energy strategy’ could have serious repercussions for proposed wind farms here in County Waterford, after the Council’s Senior Planner admitted that the Board could likely “use the same phraseology and take the same decision” for Waterford applications. “In their statement, the Board said that such a development would be premature in light of the absence of a national wind energy strategy with spacial dimension,” Cllr. Michael J. O’Ryan said. He queried whether in light of An Bord Pleanála’s decision, the planning section of Waterford City and County Council would have to take that into account when considering applications for large scale wind farms in Waterford.

Dungarvan one step closer to becoming ‘university town’ THE signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Mercyhurst University and Waterford Council has brought Dungarvan one step closer to having a dedicated campus in the town.The MOU was signed simultaneously by Chief Executive of Waterford Council, Michael Walsh, and President of Mercyhurst University, Michael Victor, during a Transatlantic news conference via live videolink. Mercyhurst University, Erie, Pennsylvania, USA, which was founded by the Sisters of Mercy, has had a connection with Dungarvan, particularly St. Augustine’s College, Abbeyside, which goes back to the early 1980s. Waterford Fine Gael Deputy John Deasy said the signing of the MOU “is the first step towards what will hopefully be the construction of a dedicated campus in Dungarvan”. “The aspiration has always been to make Dungarvan a university town. It’s taken eight years to get to this point and its fantastic to see the initial groundwork has been completed,” said Deputy Deasy.

West Waterford solar farm given go-ahead AN Bord Pleanála has given the go-ahead for a large scale solar farm on 28.8 hectares (over 70 acres) of land near Cappoquin, West Waterford. Last July, Waterford City and County Council had granted conditional permission to Highfield Solar Limited, c/o Highfield Energy Services Limited, of Design Studio 7, Old Castle View, Kilgobbin Road, Dublin, for a ten year permission for construction of a solar Photovoltaic (PV) energy development on 28.8 hectares and associated site works at Drumroe, Cappoquin, with an operational period of 25 years.

Maeve Walsh (22) from Dungarvan had been awarded the 2016 Euro-toque Young Chef of the Year title. Maeve is a recent graduate of the B.Sc. Culinary Entrepreneurship in Cathal Brugha Street and is currently chef de partie at Restaurant Forty One on St. Stephen’s Green in Dublin.

Three dead and family seriously injured in horrific collision THE three males were killed when their Volkswagen Golf burst into flames following a collision with a Citroen Picasso people carrier on the Military Road section of the N72 (Dungarvan to Lismore Road) approximately 10.00 a.m. on Sunday morning, 4th December. A family of two adults and four children in the second vehicle received serious injuries and had to be airlifted to hospital by the Irish Coastguard helicopter and Air Corps helicopter. The three men were later identified as Eamonn Dixon (22) from Murphy Place, Abbeyside; Michael Tobin (38) a father of three, orginally from Goulane, Old Parish, but was also living in Murphy Place, Abbeyside; and Kenneth O’Sullivan, the owner of the VW Golf, who is understood to be from the Blackpool area of Cork City.

Another life claimed on County Waterford roads IN a week of carnage on Irish roads, another young life was claimed in a car crash in County Waterford, barely four days after a fatal collision on the Military Road (N72) in Dungarvan, which killed three men and caused serious injuries to a family of six. Rachel Hennessy (25) originally from Waterford City, but was living in Whitewell, Stradbally, was rushed to hospital with serious injuries after the vehicle she was driving struck a wall at the Five Cross Roads, near Stradbally, at approximately 9.30 p.m. on Thursday, 8th December. She was the sole occupant of the car. Sadly, she was pronounced dead the following day.

Go-ahead given for Drumhills wind farm A CONTROVERSIAL wind farm proposed for the Drumhills near Dungarvan, which was initially refused by Waterford Council, has been granted permission by An Bord Pleanála by a majority of three to two.The wind farm, which was originally for 12 wind turbines (now reduced to eight wind turbines by An Bord Pleanála) will have a maximum tip height of 126 metres and are planned in the townlands of Knocknaglogh Lower, Barranastook Upper, Knocknamona,Woodhouse,Tinakilly, Monageela and Killatoor, in the Drumhills, near Dungarvan.The development is to include an 80 metre meteorological mast with wind measuring equipment attached, access roads, electrical substation compound, equipment and control building and ancillary site works.

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

Dungarvan leading the way with shared THE new design of Grattan Square is based on the Shared Space concept, widely used in Europe but relatively new to Ireland. The design approach is adopted where there is a need to redress the balance between pedestrian movement and vehicular dominance. The previous Dungarvan Town Council unanimously approved this project which has been incorporated under Policy INF 9 of the Dungarvan Town Development Plan 20132018 The project has been funded through the Go Dungarvan project wherein Dungarvan was chosen as a Smarter Travel Demonstration Town and allocated funding of approximately €7million over a 5 year period to invest into a variety of Smarter Travel projects. Smarter Travel is the transport policy for Ireland that sets out how the vision of a sustainable travel and transport system can be achieved in towns across Ireland. One of the key objectives of the Go Dungarvan project

is to reduce vehicle speeds through the busy town centre and make the space more conducive to a safer environment for both pedestrians and vehicles. The Grattan Square scheme is central to this transformation of the town centre, achieved in part by removing a degree of certainty from drivers – removing signage, street markings and kerbs in order to reintroduce the civic-minded sensibility of courtesy and sharing, encouraging car drivers and pedestrians to be mindful of each other. The removal of kerbs also assists people with limited mobility to use the space more freely. The introduction of tactile paving, the retention of signalised crossings at the north/south junctions and a well-defined perimeter route assist people with visual impairments to use the space. There are car parking spaces designated for people with disabilities, as well as parent and child spaces. DESIGN Grattan Square’s new layout

Grattan Square in the 19th century was more of a shared space before it became dominated by cars in the 20th century as seen in the postcard below.

The square was dominated by traffic and had become cluttered with signage, street furniture, worn out kerbs and footpaths with a variety of finishes. The aim of the new design was to reduce this clutter to make the square easier to use and more visually appealing.

In the image above, cabinets, lights, signage and other miscellaneous street furniture in different finishes that has built up over time contribute to an untidy streetscape.

Design extract showing part of the new layout of the Square.

is a model example of how rebalancing the way in which cars and pedestrians use the space. It has created a more pleasant environment that is appropriate to an historic town centre. It is designed to allow the character of the town, its buildings and shopfronts to

become more prominent again. This will encourage more people to use the Square and to stay for longer. The re-design of the Square had the following aims: To make better pedestrian and cyclist connections to and

from adjacent streets and car parking areas to encourage more pedestrians in to the Square. To rationalise the amount of car parking on the Square and balance it with the amount of space used for civic activities such as café terraces, public seating, markets and

events. To make the Square flexible in the way it is used in order to be able to cater for events of different sizes throughout the year. To reduce the visual clutter of all the different signs and street furniture and paving materials

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

space concept in Ireland (Continued from page 24) To use a simple palette of materials including street furniture and paving to allow the buildings and shopfronts to become the focus of the Square. To create more space for tree planting whilst respecting

the architectural setting of the surrounding buildings. To make the design unique to Dungarvan, using local materials and enhancing the special character and identity of the place. The amount of car parking has been reduced slightly in

favour of more public space, particularly at the sunny north end of the square with new trees, seating and areas for small events. There is still a considerable amount of parking available in the square, as well as in car parks which are close by. The flat

finishes, are bedded and jointed in high strength mortar to withstand the intense daily use on the busy Square. One of the ways the scheme has reduced clutter is to combine the cabinets that contain power sockets into a new design for seating. These

The design allowed for special stones to be etched at the thresholds of the shops on the square. These may have been house numbers or shop names, but Waterford County Museum responded with an idea of etching the stones with historic references to events and people of Dungarvan.

Music and dancing on the square – transposed by Rachel Power from original drawings for Waterford Museum.

surface of the Square and the layout of the parking allow for some or all areas to be closed off when there is an event taking place. The new paving design has invested in high quality local limestone that contributes to some of the characterful towns in the south east. It is used in different forms and textures to bring out the quality of the stone – from the large kerbstones through to the small setts detail around the edges of buildings. The pink tactile paving is also an Irish Limestone, from a small quarry in Kerry. The robust concrete paving units, which have stone in the

These include drawings of people who used the square in the c18th including people selling bread and hens, dancers and musicians and people at the well. So the people who shared the space in the past, share it once more with everyone else.

are located in each quadrant of the Square so each area can be used individually. More power has been provided at these locations than existed before, and the new light standards and banner poles also have power sockets. This will avoid the need for noisy generators at a busy event. Two of the lights have a mains water supply hidden in them for use by markets and for cleaning. The design has incorporated significant improvements to underground infrastructure including the installation of new water infrastructure and a spare utilities network for future use. Some of the existing street furniture has been recycled and refurbished, giving a new colour palette of greys from stainless steel through to charcoal grey. This grey colour palette has the effect of making a neutral ground plane which acts as a foil to the architecture of the historic buildings and colourful shopfronts “The concept of shared space means that both pedestrians and traffic are expected to slow down, observe and yield right of way everywhere in the Square showing equal respect for each other.”

2016 sees worrying 15% rise in road deaths PROVISIONAL road collision statistics for 2016, published by the Road Safety Authority (RSA), which are based on preliminary crash investigations by An Garda Síochána, show that there has been a 15% increase in road traffic related fatalities in 2016 compared to 2015. A total of 187 people have lost their lives on the roads in 175 fatal crashes in 2016, compared to 162 lives lost in 155 fatal crashes in 2015. This represents a 15% increase in fatalities and a 13% increase in fatal crashes*. Minister Shane Ross, commenting on the end of year report said: “I am very saddened by such a huge loss of life on our roads in 2016. I am also acutely aware that these are more than just numbers. They represent someone’s son, daughter, brother, sister, father or mother. If anything is to come from such a tragic loss of life it is that it should serve as a reminder to us all that the road is a shared space, and that we have a duty of care towards each other every time we use the road.” “I can assure you that this Government is determined to do all it can to reverse the increase in road casualties witnessed this year and to improving safety overall on our roads. Specifically, I look forward to the commencement of the provisions contained in the new Road Traffic Act 2016 which was signed into law by the President this week. This new Act introduces a series of reforms to deal with drug driving; written off vehicles; mutual recognition of driver disqualifications between Ireland and the UK; uninsured drivers; and a new optional 20km/h speed limit in built-up areas among other measures. I am confident that these new road safety measures will go some way towards improving road safety in 2016.” Ms. Liz O’Donnell, Chairperson, Road Safety Authority, said “2016 has been a very bad year for road safety in Ireland. I am very concerned that the increase in deaths is part of a broader trend which has seen road deaths rise in three out of the last four years. This is unacceptable and we must all redouble our efforts to prevent more needless loss of life. Looking ahead to next year there are grounds for optimism. I certainly welcome the recent appointment of a dedicated Assistant Commissioner for Roads Policing and a firm commitment to increasing the numbers in the Garda Roads Policing Unit, which will allow for more visible policing.The new Road Traffic Act 2016 and the implementation of its life saving measures will also be hugely important to reversing the upward trend. However, this does not absolve individuals from their need to take greater personal responsibility for their actions when using the road.” Assistant Commissioner Michael Finn, An Garda Síochána said, “An Garda Síochána will be putting in place a comprehensive policing plan in 2017. This plan will focus on the big four killer behaviours that featured consistently in the RSA & Garda Pre-Crash Reports that were published in 2016 following analysis of forensic collision investigation files. These behaviours are Speeding, Drink Driving, Non-Seatbelt wearing and using a mobile phone while driving. We will also be factoring the findings from the 2016 road collisions analysis report into our enforcement activity. “This targeted enforcement strategy will also be aided by a 10% increase in the number of Garda personnel in the Roads Policing Unit, which will allow for greater monitoring of road user behaviour in 2017.” Concluded Assistant Commissioner Finn. Moyagh Murdock, RSA Chief Executive, RSA, said, “In spite of the progress we have made in road safety over the past decade we are still seeing the same three killer behaviours, of alcohol, speed and non-seatbelt wearing, or more commonly a combination of all three having a devastating effect on innocent lives. I am particularly concerned about the role of alcohol in crashes. Arrest figures for the last six weeks of the Garda Christmas and New Year crackdown show that the attitudes and behaviour of a small number in our society hasn’t changed significantly.Their behaviour continues to have a disproportionate impact on road safety. We simply must take greater personal responsibility and this extends not only to those thinking of drink-driving, but also to those who knowingly turn a blind eye to it happening in our community. We all have a stark choice to make. Make safer decisions when using the road or allow another 186 or more lives to be lost in 2017. It’s a simple choice really.” *Note:These fatality figures are provisional Garda Statistics and are accurate up to 5pm on Friday 30th December and may be subject to change.

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Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

The day the Irish dropped a bombshell in Liverpool By Frank Colbert (South Africa)

THE England football team’s defeat at the hands of little Iceland in France last Summer was one more nail in the coffin of English football. Despite the typical hype among British press before the European Championships, this humiliating defeat indicates that the English team has now hit rock bottom. The shocking reality is that to date it has succeeded in reaching the semi-final of only one international tournament since their only World Cup victory exactly 50 years ago. It is now also surely impossible to be optimistic about the future, not only due to the lack of a manager of proven quality to inherit the sinking ship, but also in view of the invasion of the English Premiership by so many foreigners in recent years. England’s first international game was played back in 1872 in Glasgow and right up to the late forties they had been generally ruling the roost in international football, especially on home territory. Despite some very infrequent losses during that period against Home Countries teams like Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, they had, however, still been undefeated internationally on home soil by foreign teams until they faced Ireland in 1949. After narrowly winning by 1- 0 in 1946 at Dublin’s Dalymount Park, they decided to field their strongest eleven for the return fixture at Everton’s Goodison Park three years later. Despite the absence of the legendary Stanley Matthews through injury for the game, their team which contained English Football of the Year winners Billy Wright and Tom Finney was still firm favourites to beat a humble Irish side. This hugely impressive lineout consisted of Bert Williams, Bert Mozley, Johnny Aston, Billy Wright, Neil Franklin, Jimmy Dickinson, Peter Harris, Johnny Morris, Jesse Pye, Wilf Mannion and Tom Finney. In those heady days at least six of the team (Williams, Wright, Franklin, Dickinson, Mannion and Finney) ranked among the cream of

The cover of the match programme. British football for many years. Both teams intended that this match would be a warm-up game for the forthcoming qualifying games for the 1950 World Cup. Incidentally, after England and Scotland subsequently succeeded in qualifying for the tournament in due course, the Scots soon decided to withdraw and an invitation was then extended to Ireland to take their place. However, the FAI also declined to participate after considering the considerable cost of travelling to faraway Brazil for the tournament. The line-out for the Irish team at Goodison Park consisted of Tommy Godwin, Johnny Carey (captain), Bud Ahearne, Willie Walsh, Con Martin, Tommy Moroney, Peter Corr, Peter Farrell, Davy Walsh, Peter Desmond and Tommy O’Connor. Both Godwin and O’Connor from Shamrock Rovers were the only two players from the League of Ireland with Manchester United’s newly crowned English Footballer of the Year, Johnny Carey, generally being recognised as the only real star of the team. Due to some confusion about the arrangements for training in Southport on the evening before the game, only seven of the Irish players turned up.This wasn’t the type of scenario to foster hope for a good result the following day. However, out of this shambles Ireland would fashion a victory which would reverberate around the world of soccer. Watched by a capacity crowd,

Waterford-born Willie Walsh at FAI headquarters.

which contained a fair sprinkling of Irish fans, they soon won the admiration of friend and foe alike with a blend of skill and courage that quickly shocked the home team and their fans. During the first half wave after wave of English attacks were repelled by Godwin who was in inspired form between the posts and he received impressive protection from defenders Martin and Ahearne, as well as Carey who was keeping a firm rein on the legendary Finney. After 33 minutes Peter Desmond was brought down in the home penalty area by Mozley as he raced into the 18-yard area to make contact with O’Connor’s pass and a powerfully struck penalty kick from Con Martin crossed the line as it spun out of the hands of goalkeeper Williams. On the resumption, Irish wing halves Willy Walsh and Tommy Moroney continued to subdue the English attack with Peter Harris hitting the Irish crossbar and Pye also going close. After 85 minutes Farrell secured an Irish victory when he lofted the ball over the head of the advancing Williams and, much to the delight of the Irish contingent in the crowd, a resolute Ireland held out until the eagerly awaited final whistle. As a result they ensured that they were the first foreign team to beat England on home soil after 77 years playing against overseas opposition and Ireland’s Carey was generally regarded as Man of the Match having won a fascinating personal duel against England’s danger man Finney. Later that same evening newspaper editors back home in Dublin initially refused to believe the wireflash of the final score of 2-0, in those heady days before television. They were instantly dumbfounded and automatically assumed that England had won by 2-0! Co-incidentally, at least three of those Irish heroes had previously been victims of the archaic GAA ban in their youth. This rule was originally brought into force back in the early seventies by the GAA, whereby any gaelic football or hurling player could be instantly banned for a minimum of 12 months if he had been discovered, not only playing an English “foreign” game such as soccer or rugby, but also purely attending one. Johnny Carey had been a promising under-age player in gaelic football for Dublin in the late thirties. However, he suddenly found himself instantly suspended by the GAA at the age of sixteen after he was discovered on a dance floor at a Christmas function, purely because the music being played was not traditional ceili music! Having then decided to concentrate solely on soccer, he in due course went on to become the hugely respected captain of

Manchester United’s first great team immediately after World War 2 and, in addition to succeeding the legendary Stanley Matthews as English Footballer of the Year in 1949, he also captained a Rest of Europe team against Great Britain at Hampden Park the same year. His Irish team-mate and centre half Con Martin won a Leinster Championship medal for Dublin gaelic footballers as a youth. However, his medal was subsequently withheld by the GAA when they discovered that he had simultaneously been playing soccer for the League of Ireland team Drumcondra. Astonishingly, this medal was only presented to him in 1971 after the GAA ban was finally lifted almost fifty years after Ireland gaining its independence! Co-incidentally, after a long distinguished career at Aston Villa he later captained Waterford in the 1959 FAI Cup final during a three year spell for the Blues. Although traditionally a centre half he was an extremely versatile player for both club and country, and initially turned down an offer to sign for Matt Busby’s Manchester United as a goalkeeper because he preferred to play outfield. Waterford-born Davy Walsh grew up as a gifted and versatile sportsman who played both gaelic football and hurling at school. However, he was soon given a six month suspension by the GAA after he was discovered also playing soccer. At the tender age of fifteen he had been lining up at under 18, junior and senior levels for his local soccer club – positive proof of his precocious talent indeed. In due course he became the first Irish player to cross the Irish Channel after World War 2 when he signed for West Bromwich Albion for 3,500 pounds and duly scored 8 goals in his first 6 games. He would go on to score 100 goals in 174

appearances for the club before joining Aston Villa in 1950 for an impressive 25,000 pounds, which was the second highest transfer fee in British football in those heady days. Before he died in 2016 at the grand old age of 93, he impishly attributed his long life to “Guinness as well as my wife’s home-made puddings!” For his services to soccer he was presented with a Waterford Crystal vase by the Waterford City Council in 2003, together with Paddy Coad, Alfie Hale, Jim Beglin and John O’Shea. One of the cruelist injustices ever endured by an Irish soccer player for playing the “garrison sport” of soccer must surely be that imposed on Liam Brady, the great Arsenal and Irish international midfielder of the eighties. Unbelievably, he was expelled from his school, St. Aidan’s Christian Brothers in Whitehall, Dublin, after he had opted to captain the Irish schoolboys team against Wales instead of playing a gaelic football match for his school! Cork-born Tommy Moroney played rugby for both Cork Constitution and also Munster while simultaneously playing soccer for League of Ireland team Cork Athletic, with whom he won several league medals.While on the books of West Ham United he scored a debut goal for Ireland against Spain and duly went on to collect a total of 12 caps. He later returned home to manage Cork Hibernians at Flower Lodge for three years prior to 1964 when as a junior goalkeeper, I experienced at first hand his impressive, but somewhat abrasive, managerial skills for the League of Ireland club. England’s Billy Wright eventually went on to become the first player to win 105 caps for his country and was a highly respected captain on an impressive 90 occasions. In 1952 he was

voted English Footballer of the Year. His international team-mate Tom Finney also collected the English Footballer of the Year award, both in 1954 and again in 1957. While playing for Preston North End he received a lucrative offer from an Italian club in the late fifties. However, in those heady days when English clubs had total control of their players his request for a transfer was firmly rejected by the club chairman with the words: “Forget it, lad. Thou shall play for no-one but Preston.” Wilf Mannion was nicknamed the Golden Boy of both Middlesboro and English football in those distant days and would go on to score 110 goals for his club while collecting 26 caps for his country. After this Irish game in 1949 England remained unbeaten at home against overseas opposition for a further four years until they suddenly were routed at Wembley in 1953 by Puskas’s “Magical Magyars” from Hungary by a hugely impressive scoreline of 6-3, followed by an even more emphatic defeat of 7-1 in Budapest six months later. It was now suddenly a time of rude awakening for the hitherto cock-a-hoop English, despite their alarming defeat by a humble Irish eleven at Goodison Park four years earlier. As a result there was soon a definite re-think in the team tactics normally adopted by the national team, something which would eventually bear fruit thirteen years later at Wembley when Alf Ramsey’s team beat West Germany by 4-2 in the World Cup final. However, unlike in the case of Brazil, Germany, Italy, Uruguay and Argentina, a repeat performance in the near future is far from certain from the country that gave the sport of football to the rest of the world over 140 years ago!

The Irish team at Goodison Park in 1949. Front row (l. to r.): Peter Corr, Tommy O'Connor, Johnny Carey (capt.), Peter Desmond, Peter Farrell and Davy Walsh. Back row (l. to r.): Billy Lord (trainer), Con Martin, Bud Aherne, Tommy Godwin, Tommy Moroney and Willie Walsh.

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Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

The Newsreader THE WEEK THAT WAS IN IT . . .

A woman with principles GOVERNMENT Chief Whip, Regina Doherty has certainly brought a practical meaning to the term ‘new politics’ and claims to openness and transparency. As Chief Whip, Regina has been very impressive and, when speaking in public tends to call things as they are with no room for ambiguity. This is certainly a new trait and a welcome departure from the kind of fluffy interviews the Whips and Ministers have traditionally given to the media. According to press reports, Chief Whip Regina, has put her position in jeopardy by saying she will back anti-pylon protesters in any “civil disobedience” measures taken to prevent the new north-south electricity interconnector from being constructed. According to a report in the Irish Independent before Christmas, a campaign group which claims to represent 45,000 people says that plans to build the 138km North-South Interconnector will be subject to judicial review, and called for politicians to insist the lines were buried underground to

avoid impact on the landscape. The power line involves 299 pylons, some of them up to 51 metres high, being erected across Cavan, Monaghan and Meath, and was subject to some 900 submissions during an a public hearing earlier this year. An Bord Pleanála has granted permission to national grid operator EirGrid to build the line, which will take up to three years to complete. Work cannot begin until a 35km section in Northern Ireland is approved. A public hearing will take place on this section in February. While it would be easy to accuse the Chief Whip of playing local politics, she is looking to the welfare and interests of her constituents at the possible expense of her senior position in the Government’s parliamentary affairs. Will Regina Doherty’s principled stand and plain speaking forthright views eventually cast her on to the political scrapheap as was the other principled TD and Junior Minister, Lucinda Creighton who served her Government and the Irish people so

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Dungarvan Observer

effectively as a Minister for European Affairs. Yet, when she dared to stand by her principles, she was heartlessly cast aside. Perhaps Lucinda will rise again under a new Fine Gael regime and maybe contend in time with Regina Doherty to be the first Irishwoman to become Taoiseach. Many people would already see this as a likely scenario. There is a certain feeling of déjà vu as yet again the country faces a controversy regarding pylons and it will be interesting to see how much of a lesson the Government has learned from the last pre-election pylon controversy. Predictably, Chambers Ireland said the project was essential to maintain economic growth. Now where and when did we hear that before? Understandably, the Irish Farmers' Association said it "ignored" concerns. There is a great deal of debate and deliberation and controversy left in this yet and everyone would be well served, particularly the Government, to look closely at the past.

A new word for us HYPOTHECATION!! Keep an eye out for this word, it may well come up a good deal over the next weeks and maybe be with us ‘going forward’ ugh!! According to the Irish Independent recently, hopes of ploughing money from the sugar tax directly back into the fight against obesity have been dashed. Apparently, the Finance Department estimates it will yield at least €101.3m a year - but it is refusing to pledge to put it back into the prevention and treatment of the obesity epidemic. A spokesman for the department told the Irish Independent the approach known as hypothecation – earmarking the revenue for a specific purpose - is not favoured by Finance Minister Michael Noonan. "There is no intention to hypothecate the revenues from the tax on sugar sweetened drinks for any particular health-related service," he said. The approach puts the Minister on

Finalists announced in the Community & Council Awards 2017 presented by IPB Insurance and LAMA IPB Insurance and LAMA are delighted to announce the finalists for the Community & Council Awards 2017. 2016 has been an extraordinary year for entries with over 200 nominations received and over 120 entries shortlisted across the 22 categories. Among the awards to be presented on Saturday, February 4th, at the Crown Plaza Northwood are Council of the Year, Community Volunteer of the Year, Best Educational Building, Best Civil Engineering Project, Local Sports Club of the Year and the National Impact Award. Now in its 11th year, the Community & Council Awards 2017 presented by IPB Insurance and LAMA have grown in popularity across the nation, providing an important platform to recognise and reward communities and councils who are working together to deliver excellence in development and recreational projects. The Awards have been expanding and developing annually, thus reflecting the changes in our contemporary society. Speaking at the finalists launch, IPB Chairman George Jones said, “We see the Community and Council Awards as a perfect fit for IPB, recognising as it does, the unique relationship our local authority Members enjoy with their communities in creating a better society for living and working.” Cllr. Mags Murray Chairperson of the LAMA

Executive commented, “LAMA is delighted to acknowledge and recognise the enormous efforts of community and voluntary groups, innovative initiatives and local authorities in their pursuit of excellence. I am blown away by the Trojan work being carried out across the country. I am delighted to see so many innovative and unique projects being recognised and congratulations to all who have reached the finalist stage. ” This year’s Community & Council Award winners will be announced at the gala Awards ceremony, hosted by RTÉ's Marty Morrissey at the Crown Plaza Hotel Dublin Airport, Northwoord on Saturday, 4th Feburary, 2017. A full list of finalists is available at: www.lamaawards.org Local initiatives that were shortlisted include; • KCETB & Waterford Area Partnership - Best Education and Training Initiative • Dungarvan Community Hospital - Go for life - Best Health & Well - Being Initiative • Tramore Cliff and Mountain Rescue Association - Emergency Response Person of the Year • Clonmel EnterprisesLeopardstown Link Road & Roundabout Reconfiguration Best Civil Engineering Project • KCETB & Waterford Area Partnership - Best Education and Training Initiative • Clonmel EnterprisesRefurbishment & Restoration of Beaver Row Footbridge - Best Heritage Project

a collision course with the Health Department - which is in favour of following on the example of the tobacco tax revenues, which have helped fund the cardiovascular strategy. Since 2000, this has meant €168m has been paid over annually for health provision. The Finance Department stance has been condemned by leading obesity expert Dr. Donal O’Shea, who said it was a missed opportunity. He has already expressed his frustration at the failure to provide funding for the obesity plan – launched with great fanfare in 2016 – in the October Budget. "They have to ensure the money is spent on the obesity plan. The precedent has already been set by funds from tobacco taxes. "There is no rationale for not doing this," he said. Doc O’Shea should be around long enough to know that the sun goes down on political promises faster than it does on Galway Bay. And there is no fanfare or song about it either.

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IN MEMORIAM

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

In Memoriam

† CLANCY (3rd anniversary) – In loving memory of Brigid Clancy, late of Sheskin, Stradbally, Co. Waterford, whose Anniversary occurs on 10th January. R.I.P. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in the Holy Cross Church, Stradbally, on Saturday, 14th January, at 7.30 p.m. Gone is the face so loving and kind, Beautiful are the memories you left behind, Gone is the heart so caring and true, There’s never a day we don’t think of you.

–Always remembered by your loving husband Dick and family. –––––––––––––––––––– No length of time can take you away, Our thoughts of you from day to day, Time slips by and life goes on, But from our hearts you are never gone. And as each day dawns and starts anew, And as each day ends we think of you, And in between no matter where, Deep in our hearts you are always there.

–Always remembered and sadly missed by Eamonn, Elaine and Dylan.

DRUMMEY (14th anniversary) – In loving memory of my father Tom Drummey whose Anniversary occurs on 6th January. Our thoughts are always with you, Your place no one can fill, In life we loved you dearly, In death we love you still. We know you walk beside us, And when our lives are through, We pray that God will take our hands, And bring us straight to you.

–Always remembered by your loving son Thomas; daughterin-law Rose; grandchildren Simon, Eoin, Aoife and Ciara; great grandson Callum and great grand-daughters Carly, Mischa and Maya.

FLYNN (7th anniversary) – In loving memory of Catherine Flynn, late of Fox’s Castle, Kilmacthomas, who died on 14th January, 2010. MAM No matter how we spend our day, No matter what we do, No morning dawns, no evening falls, Without a thought of you, A heart of gold, a life so true. Also remembering our Dad at this time. Together forever, forgotten never, Both loved and missed always.

–Love Mary, Helen, Patricia, Regina, John, Pat, families and friends. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated at 9.00 a.m. in Faha Church on Sunday, 8th January, 2017. MAHER (22nd anniversary) – In loving memory of Bridie Maher, late of Gortnadiha, Ring, who died on 3rd January, 1995. If roses grow in Heaven Lord, Pick a bunch for us, Place them in her arms, And tell her they’re from us.

–Always remembered by your daughter Cissie and grandchildren. MAHER (22nd anniversary) – In loving memory of Bridie Maher, late of Gortnadiha, Ring, who died on 3rd January, 1995. R.I.P. Precious memories, Keep you near, Despite the, Passing years.

–Always remembered by Liam and family. MAHER (22nd anniversary) – In loving memory of Bridie Maher, late of Gortnadiha, Ring, who died on 3rd January, 1995. R.I.P. Thoughts return of days gone past, The years go by but memories last, Time passes, memories stay, Quietly remembered every day.

–Always remembered by your son Seán and family.

ORMOND (3rd anniversary) – In loving memory of John (Sean) Ormond, late of Ballymacmague, who died on 4th January, 2014. R.I.P. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Sunday, 15th January, 2017, at 11.00 a.m. in the Friary Church, Dungarvan. PARTING We watched you close your eyes, We listened to every breath, We held on tightly to your hand, As you calmly welcomed death. We tried to wish you back to life, Afraid to let you go, We wanted you to breathe again, Oh how we loved you so! We didn’t know that we could cry, So many pitiful tears, Thinking of your smiling face, We’ve loved throughout the years. But somewhere in the hurt and pain, The love of God shines through, And helps us come to realise, We’ll one day be with you.

–Always remembered by your wife Moira; daughter Gillian; sons John and Pat.

NORRIS (9th and 21st anniversaries) – In loving memory of Nellie Norris, late of Ballinacourty, who died on 20th December, 2007. Also her husband Paddy who died on 8th January, 1996. Though we have mourned your loss, You dwell in that safe place in our hearts, Where no storm or night, Or passing of time can reach you.

–Remembered always by all the family at home and away.

POWER (2nd anniversary) – In loving memory of John Power, late of Beechcroft, Deerpark Road, Lismore, who died on 7th January, 2015. R.I.P. DAD Thinking of you today, And every day.

–Sadly missed by your daughter Sinead, son-in-law Michael and grandchildren Ellen, Joe and Kate.

Prop. DAVID KIELY David & Margaret, ‘Garrán Mhuire,’ Kiladangan (058) 42200 / (086) 2525663 (Est. 1919) Irish Association of Funeral Directors

Funeral Home Floral & Artificial Wreaths Supplied Obituary Notices

SHANDON STREET & KILADANGAN, DUNGARVAN Phone: David (058) 42200. Mobile: (086) 2525663 Fax (058) 48712. www.kielyfunerals.ie

McKEOWN (1st anniversary) – In loving memory of Dick McKeown, late of Chapel Road, Stradbally, who died on 7th January, 2016. R.I.P.

OBSERVER EMAIL ADDRESSES The Dungarvan Observer has updated their email addresses as follows: adverts@dungarvanobserver.ie news@dungarvanobserver.ie sport@dungarvanobserver.ie features@dungarvanobserver.ie info@dungarvanobserver.ie

He never looked for praise, He was never one to boast, He just went on quietly working, For the ones he loved the most. His dreams were seldom spoken, His wants were very few, And most of the time his worries, Went unspoken too. He was there a firm foundation, Through all the storms of life, A sturdy hand to hold on to, In times of stress and strife. A true friend we could turn to, When times were good or bad, One of our greatest blessings, The man that we called Dad.

–Always remembered by your loving son Michael and daughter-in-law Patricia.

Do not stand, At my grave and weep, I am not there, I do not sleep. I am a thousand winds that blow, I am the diamond glints on snow, I am the sunlight on ripened grain, I am the gentle Autumn rain.

–Always remembered by your loving husband John and all the family.

James Kiely & Sons

Embalming & Cremations Arranged We attend to all the details: Church & Cemetery

WALSH (7th anniversary) – In loving memory of Kathleen Walsh, late of Killishal, Cappagh, who died on 5th January, 2010. R.I.P.

DAVID KIELY MONUMENTAL WORKS KILADANGAN, DUNGARVAN Showroom at Kiladangan (near Radley’s Engineering Ltd.) over ONE HUNDRED headstones on display Telephone: (058) 42200. Mobile: (086) 2525663. Fax: (058) 48712. www.davidkielymonumentals.com

HEADSTONES IN LIMESTONE, MARBLE, POLISHED GRANITE We restore existing headstones, kerbs, graves, chipped, inscriptions, etc. FULL RANGE OF COMPUTER OPTIONS + DESIGNS

Distance no problem to us – Member of Guild of Master Craftsmen Ring for appointment: Open Saturday and Sunday

POWER (3rd anniversary) – In loving memory of my much loved brother Seano, late of 25 Childers Estate, and Gorteen, Ring, who died on 4th January, 2014. Anniversary Mass for Seano will be celebrated on Saturday, 7th January, at 7.30 p.m., in the St. Mary’s Parish Church, Dungarvan. It doesn’t take a special day, To bring you to my mind, A day without a thought of you Seano, Is very hard to find. Your resting place I visit, Flowers I place with care, No one knows the heartache, As I turn and leave you there.

–Missed so much, West, Michael, Hughie and family, XXX. WALL (27th anniversary) – In loving memory of Ann Wall (nee Power), late of 30 Comeragh Crescent, Dungarvan, who died on 4th January, 1990. R.I.P. Will those who think of Ann today, A little prayer to Jesus say.

–Inserted by Marian, Jack and family.

WALSH (7th anniversary) – In loving memory of our dear sister Kathleen Walsh, late of Killishal, Cappagh, who died on 5th January, 2010. R.I.P. What man who lives in a foreign country, Would not hurry to return home, We believe paradise to be our true home, A great throng awaits us there – Parents and family members, What joy they share with us, When we come into their sight and embrace them.

–Always loved and remembered by her brothers, sisters and all their families.

The person who doesn’t advertise knows what they’re doing – but no one else does! Call … 058-41205/42042 e-mail: adverts@dungarvanobserver.ie

† Drohan Monumentals † Headstones in Marble, Granite & Limestone Inscriptions Cut Existing Stones Cleaned & Restored Graves Chipped Tel. (058) 43211. Mobile: (087) 2540295. www.drohanfuneraldirectors.ie

Find the latest local news including sports analysis only in your FULL COLOUR Dungarvan Observer

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Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

O Situations Vacant C CHILDMINDER REQUIRED – To mind three schoolgoing children in Kilossera / Lisfennell / Dungarvan area for approximately 10–12 hours per week, afternoons, in their own home. May suit mature lady. No housework, only supervision of children. Car owner essential. Please reply to (086) 1066491. (6-1) KIND, RELIABLE WOMAN WANTED – To mind children in their own home after school for two hours daily. Children aged 14, 11 and 10. Abbeyside area. Own car essential. Some housework also required. Teacher’s holidays. Tel. (086) 3988371. (13-1)

O Birthday Remembrance C

Acknowledgement † SHEILA DROHAN Crough, Lemybrien, Co. Waterford

The family of the late Sheila Drohan wish to thank most sincerely all those who sympathised with them in their recent bereavement: to all who attended the Rosary, removal, Funeral Mass and burial; to those who sent Mass cards, letters and cards of sympathy and floral tributes and to those who travelled long distances to be with us. A huge thank you to the Doctors, Nurses and Care staff of University Hospital Waterford and St. Joseph’s Hospital, Dungarvan, for their medical care and dedication to Sheila during her illness. Thank you also to Drs. Roche Nagle for their care to Sheila down through the years. The family would like to thank Fr. Delaney, P.P., who celebrated Sheila’s Funeral Mass and burial, assisted by Fr. Collender, O.S.A., and Rev. Dunwoody. Thanks also to the Church Sacristan Mrs. Breda Crotty, the Altar servers and gravediggers. Special thanks to Tom and James Drohan, Funeral Directors, for the caring and professional manner in which they carried out their duties. We trust that this acknowledgement will be accepted by all as a token of our appreciation and gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for all your intentions.

For Quick Results Use the Small Adverts. Section Call our Office or use your Credit or Debit Card by Phone Dungarvan Observer, Shandon, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford. Tel. (058) 41205 / 42042. Fax: (058) 41559.

† MICHAEL WALSH Johnstown House, Ballymullala, Cappagh

POWER – In loving memory of Noreen Power (nee Gough), late of Lickoran, Ballinamult, whose birthday occurs on 4th January. Thinking of you on your birthday Noreen, But that’s nothing new, For no day dawns and no day ends, Without a thought of you, Put your arms around her Lord, For today is Noreen’s birthday, Her fourth away from home.

–Sadly missed by your loving husband Felim.

POWER – In loving memory of a my sister and friend Noreen Power (nee Gough), late of Lickoran, Ballinamult, whose birthday occurred on 4th January. What we would give if we could say, We’ll go and see Noreen today, To hear her voice, to see her smile, To sit and chat with her a while, A silent prayer to keep in touch, We miss you Noreen so very much.

–Loved and sadly missed on your birthday by James and Siobhain.

On the First Anniversary of the late Michael Walsh, who passed to his eternal reward on 6th January, 2016; his wife and family wish to acknowledge the many expressions of sympathy and gestures of kindness shown to us following our great loss. We offer our heartfelt thanks to the many friends, neighbours and well-wishers who visited our home, attended the Rosary, removal and Requiem Mass and who provided emotional and practical support for us at this difficult time. For those who telephoned, travelled long distances, sent cards and messages of condolences, as well as those who delivered provisions to our home, we are truly grateful. We also would like to take this opportunity to thank all our relations and Michael’s friends who visited him in Hospital and in the Nursing Home over his last six months. To Fr. Gerard O’Connor, P.P., we thank you for visiting Michael in Hospital, for facilitating the Rosary, prayers at removal, and for celebrating the Requiem Mass. To Fr. Patrick Fitzgerald, P.E., we also thank you for your attendance at the Funeral Mass and burial. To the Doctors, Matron, Nurses and staff of Cork University Hospital, Waterford University Hospital; to the management, Nurses and staff of Youghal & District Nursing Home, Gortroe, for their care and respect shown at all times; and to Dr. Mahony, and his team at the Shandon Clinic who cared for Michael in a professional and loving way. We are also indebted to the diligence and support of the ladies who provided Home Help over the years, and who cared for Michael so well in his home. To John Stack who sang beautifully at the removal, and to Brendan McCarthy who delivered appropriate hymns and psalms at the Funeral Mass including the graveside; we are so grateful. To Tom and James Drohan, Funeral Directors, for their sensitive and professional handling of arrangements; to the gravediggers and to the Sacristan; we are very appreciative of your contribution. To all those who helped in any way, your contribution made our loss more bearable. As it would be impossible to thank everyone individually, please accept this acknowledgement as an expression of our deepest gratitude. The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered for your intentions. …And when the journey finally ends, We'll claim a great reward, And find an everlasting peace, Together with the Lord.

First Anniversary Mass for Michael will be celebrated on Saturday, January 7th, at 7.30 p.m. in St. James’ Church, Ballinameela.

POWER – In loving memory of a dear and special daughter and sister Noreen Power (nee Gough), late of Lickoran, Ballinamult, whose birthday occurred on 4th January. Thinking of you on your birthday Noreen, With sadness in our hearts, For a very special someone, From whom we had to part. Your memory is precious, And never grows old, It’s locked in our hearts, In letters of gold. Your presence we miss, And memories we treasure, Missing you always, Forgetting you never. We seldom ask for miracles, But today just one would do, To leave our door wide open, And see you walking through.

–Always loved and sadly missed by your heartbroken Mam and Dad and brother Michael.

Check out the Dungarvan Observer online! POWER – In loving memory of my sister and friend Noreen Power (nee Gough), late of Lickoran, Ballinamult, whose birthday occurred on 4th January.

www.dungarvanobserver.ie

Today is full of memories, Happiness and tears, Of birthday celebrations we’ve shared, Throughout the years. And though I’ll always miss you, The endless joy you brought, Warms my heart with gratitude, And fill my every thought. Wherever you are resting, I hope that you can see, How precious and uplifting, Your memory is to me. I feel that you are with me, In everything I do, So I’ll celebrate your birthday, But I’ll spend it missing you.

–Loved and sadly missed on your birthday by William and Claire.

Dungarvan Observer

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Notice to Advertisers It is a condition of acceptance of advertisements orders that the proprietors do not guarantee the insertion of any particular advertisement on a special date or at all. Although every effort will be made to meet the wishes of the advertisers; further they do not accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccurracy in the printing of any advertisement. They reserve the right to refuse or alter any advertisement, no matter by whom or where accepted for publication; also to discontinue the publication of any advertisements previously published. Advertisements paid or otherwise are therefore accepted only subject to the above conditions. The advertiser undertakes to indemnify the proprietors against all liability for any civil action arising out of publication of (ind.) the advertisement.

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Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

John Phelan Skip Hire

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Call us on 051 645445 • 087 9677797 Skip Hire and Waste Collection Services in Dungarvan and surrounding areas • Domestic & Commercial Skip Hire • Wide Range of Skip Sizes from Mini to RoRo • Mattress Collection • Contaminated Soil Collection • Sludge Collection

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MURRAY’S ROOFING DUNGARVAN – Re-roofing specialists. Slate/Tile • flat roofs • guttering/downpipes • chimney work • chimney cowls • ridge tiles • lead flashing lead valleys • supply/fit roof velux windows • UPVC fascias/soffits • insurance work undertaken • all work holds a full written guarantee • all areas covered • For a free written quotation and emergency work call Paul on (058) 43992, mobile (086) 2109547. (ind.)

WALL’S CHIMNEY & BOILER SERVICE – Chimney & Boiler Services. Gutters and Drains Unblocked. Contact us on (087) 9931571.

O C

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COMERAGH LANDSCAPING – The landscaping professionals. Garden design and layout. Planting, water features, patios, stonework, kerbing, fencing, etc. Lawn laying turfed and seeded. For a professional and affordable service contact Paul Curran (087) 2908403. www.comeraghlandscaping.ie (ind.)

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EXPERIENCED AND QUALIFIED TREE SURGEON – Available for all aspects of tree surgery. • Identification and removal of hazardous trees. • Tree reduction and pruning. • Hedge cutting and wood chipping. Contact your local professional Fergal Colbert (087) 7933481 / www.fergalcolberttreecare.com (ind.)

O C

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O C

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Language Learning

LANGUAGE LEARNING IN THE NEW YEAR! – Adult Classes. Grinds for all Secondary School students. English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Irish. Contact: The Language People, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford. dungarvanlanguagepeople@gmail.com Tel. (087) 9753783. (6-1)

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1998 BLACK TOYOTA COROLLA 1.4 PETROL – Excellent condition. €500 o.n.o. Two owners. Tel. (087) 9655696. (13-1)

O C

Air Compressors

SALES – SERVICE – REPAIRS – New and Used Air Compressors. All voltage / 10 Bar. Full range of Air Tools / Spare parts. Airco Compressed Air Services, Deelish, Dungarvan. Tel. (086) 8664555 www.airco.ie

STAIRS CUSTOM JOINERY 087 2420124

Computer Services

LINE DANCING – New Beginners starting Tuesday, 10th January, 7:30 – 8:30 p.m., Causeway Tennis and Bowls Club, Dungarvan. Contact: info@deiselinedancers.com or (087) 6534288.

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COMPUTER AND LAPTOP REPAIRS – On Site Repairs, Set-ups, Upgrades, Data Recovery and Training. Virus and pop-up removal. Qualified computer Engineer and Trainer. 20 years experience. Reasonable rates. House calls. Tel. Shane Deevy (087) 9872006. (ind.)

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Hallahan’s Pharmacy, Dungarvan Wishes everyone a happy and healthy 2017 For appointment telephone 087 1258613

PAINTING & POWERWASHING – Interior, Exterior, Woodwork, Wallpapering, etc. Powerwashing of Houses, Farm Buildings. Also all Farm Buildings Spray or Hand Painted. Also Window and Chimney Cleaning (brush and vacuum) available. Contact: Mike Scanlon (087) 6198876. (ind.)

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C To Let

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POINT OF LAY PULLETS FOR SALE – Outside Dungarvan Mart on Monday next, 9th January, from 11.30 a.m. to 1.30 p.m. Tel. (026) 41905 / (087) 2208061.

Dungarvan Observer

O C Planning Permission WATERFORD CITY AND COUNTY COUNCIL – I, John Maber, intend to apply to the above Authority for retention permission to retain indefinitely the, as constructed, detached domestic garage at, Derrinlaur Lower, Clonmel, Co. Waterford. 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 Authority (Menapia Building, The Mall, Waterford), during its public opening hours (9.30 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. to 4.00 p.m.). A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee (€20) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application.

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Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

Letters to the Editor … Address Letters to: The Editor, Dungarvan Observer, Shandon, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford. Fax: 058 41559. e-mail: news@dungarvanobserver.ie ALL letters MUST include your name, address and telephone number for authenticity purposes.

Council’s annual litter bill Dear Editor, I was shocked to read your News Editorial, "Council faces annual litter bill of over €3.2m" (D.O. 23/30th December). As anyone who has the slightest regard for their countryside knows, we are plagued by a certain disgraceful minority who continue to disfigure the area with their litter and filth. From household refuse and builders waste to soiled nappies and garden refuse, plastic bags and other loose rubbish are strewn around the country lanes, car parks and beaches - litter wherever one looks. Councillor Mary Roche states that a bill of €3.2m is “entirely avoidable” and appeals to litter louts to desist from such practices. We have all appealed to their “better nature” should they have one but such appeals have been totally ignored and the litter problem continues to escalate at an alarming rate. Surely there must be an easier solution? Spending huge amounts on clearing up isn't the answer. We pay a Local Household Tax. Is it beyond the realms of credibility for that tax to be raised by “X” amount and then each property to receive a free collection of their household rubbish? Recycling could be fitted into that scheme and then there would be no pathetic excuses that “the tip is too expensive” or “it's too difficult to take certain things” etc., etc., and if one has already pre-paid for rubbish to be dealt with via the LPT, I cannot believe anyone would be stupid enough to spend more money on vehicle fuel to travel into the countryside to dump waste. Yes, I am sure there will still be the nuisance of discarded coffee cups, disposable BBQ and picnic rubbish left by irresponsible daytrippers or holiday makers, but at least it would cut down dramatically the general disgraceful litter problem we are faced with at present. Would it work? The only real problem I see with the above suggestion would be Government Administration. Looking back at the complete fiasco of the LPT and Water Charges I think such a scheme would not be in place during my lifetime - but one could always hope! Meanwhile, we people who do care about our countryside will continue to clean up after the idle, dirty and uncaring minority. Yours faithfully, PATRICIA J. HEMMING

Lifelong Supporters of Concern Dear Sir, At the end of the year, I want to take a moment to reflect on two women who passed away this year, who were related to Concern Worldwide in two very different ways. In the last year of her life, my mother, a life time supporter of Concern, very specifically asked that her collection of clothes, the good suits and coats that she had gathered over the years, be donated to the Concern charity shop in Newcastle, Co. Down. As a child she was evacuated to the small seaside town during the second world war, away from the bombs that struck Belfast. For her Newcastle always symbolised a place of refuge and safety. The Concern shop there opened in 1984 to raise funds for the children of Somalia caught up in war and famine in that country. More than 20 years later, ‘the Harrods of charity shops’, as it is known by the women who run it today, has raised over £1million to support Concern’s work in multiple countries. My mother’s donation of her good clothes was simply a tiny gesture of support to these extraordinary women of Newcastle, who are part of the bedrock of Ireland’s community network of volunteers who come together organically and energetically to make a difference in the lives of people they have never met. A few months after my own mother died, Kay O’Loughlin Kennedy passed away. Kay is not a household name in Ireland, but in 1968 she founded Concern along with her husband John. Concern is now Ireland’s foremost humanitarian and development organisation, reaching over 22 million people last year across 28 countries. But it all began in 1968, when Kay and John brought 40 people into their flat on Northumberland Road in Dublin.They sat on the floor, hearing stories of the horrendous famine in Biafra that was going on at the time and decided to reach out to the Irish public, who responded in earnest, and have carried us ever since. These were ordinary people doing extraordinary things, just like the women who run the shop in Newcastle. It is the individual stories of these often unseen and unsung heroes, those who have devoted their time and energy to others, that are the hallmark of who we are as a nation. In these difficult and sometimes cynical times, we need this energy, support and this spirit more than ever.We are at the end of what has been an extraordinarily challenging year. No one needs reminding of how tumultuous 2016 has been, but it has been most difficult for the poorest and most vulnerable. For those caught up in the horror of Syria or the decimation of Hurricane Matthew in Haiti, or the slow grinding destruction of farmland caused by El Nino and climate change, this year has been

LETTERS an unqualified disaster. Despite the turmoil and change, there has been one constant for us – that is the generosity of the people who support Concern. It is this generosity that does justice to Kay’s noble ambition and allows her legacy to live on. My mother might have thought her donation was small.The people who donate, the people who volunteer at the Concern shop and at fundraisers across the country may not know how important they are, but they are vital. It is the totality of these acts that allows us to do what we do. It enables us to respond immediately to emergencies, to stay after the cameras are gone, to reach people in the most desperate and remote places. To save lives and to transform more lives. Stay with us and I promise you we will continue to deliver professional, compassionate solutions to those that need it most and, importantly, hold ourselves fully accountable to those we serve and to you that support our work. This is who we are. This is what we do and we will continue to do it for as long as we can. As we enter 2017, I would like to thank all of you for your continued support and I wish you a peaceful and happy new year. Yours, DOMINIC MacSORLEY, Chief Executive Officer, Concern Worldwide, Dublin 2.

Trocaire thanks readers for amazing support in 2016 Dear Editor, I would like to thank your readers and all from County Waterford for their loyal support for Trócaire’s work over the past year.We are extremely privileged to work on behalf of the people of Ireland in some of the poorest countries in the world.That work would not be possible without the generosity of parishioners, students, teachers, clergy, volunteers and supporters who believe passionately in remembering those less well off than themselves. 2016 was another challenging year in the fight for global justice. It was a year that saw Trócaire supporting people caught up in war in the Middle East, families trying to survive food shortages in east Africa and communities around the world denied their basic human rights. The year has seen the continued bloodshed in Syria and millions of Syrians having to take refuge in camps in the Middle East and Europe. Your donations have enabled us to support these people, who fled with nothing and are desperate. People are getting essential shelter, food and healthcare and also longer term assistance including training schemes, housing refurbishments and education so families can provide some normality for their children. For the first time in 2016 the Lenten campaign and Trócaire box featured supporters from here in Ireland, a reminder that by working together we can absolutely make a difference to global problems that can sometimes seem insurmountable. Trócaire is only able to carry out our work on behalf of the people of Ireland because of the wonderful support and goodwill we receive each year. On behalf of those we work with, and the families and communities on the ground whose lives you have helped change, I would like to again thank all from Co. Waterford and wish you a very happy and peaceful New Year. Your sincerely, EAMONN MEEHAN Executive Director of Trócaire

Let’s make 2017 a year of welcome for refugees Dear Editor, I have a question for readers of the Dungarvan Observer. Would you risk a dangerous journey in an overcrowded boat, or stay and take your chances in a raging conflict? This is the dilemma facing families trying to secure refuge from war and poverty by crossing the Mediterranean. In Oxfam’s Dublin office we have life-jackets used by people who made this journey in 2016 – not all of whom made it. Many of the life-jackets were never seaworthy and made of straw and sponge. We are using these life jackets to highlight the enormous human tragedy unfolding in our world. Last year, 100,000 of the world’s refugees were children travelling alone. Can you imagine the terror – cold, hungry and in danger, they experienced things few of us can comprehend. Under the awnings of Sicily’s Catania train station on a recent visit, I discovered that some of those who spend their days on the streets and return there to sleep are as young as 11. We are working in Italy and Greece and the Western Balkans providing life-saving support – shelter, clean water, food, clothes, and hygiene items. We also provide psychological and legal support, along with protection for women and girls. Oxfam is active in nine out of the 10 countries where the majority of refugees are coming from – countries like Syria, Afghanistan, Somalia and South Sudan.We rely on the generosity of people here at home - through towns like Dungarvan and our shop in Waterford - to carry out this vital work and would like to thank you for your support in 2016. Due to the continued urgent needs, we have launched a New Year

31 refugee appeal online and in our shops to support this vital work in 2017. The Irish navy has done fantastic work rescuing people from the Mediterranean. As a country, we have pledged to resettle 4,000 refugees by the end of 2017. We need to speed up the process and make sure families are supported and integrated. We need expanded, safe and legal routes to Europe and to provide a fair, transparent and efficient asylum system. In the long term, we need to address the circumstances that drive people to take such risks by tackling the insecurity, poverty and inequality that people are fleeing. Most importantly, the EU needs to stop bargaining people’s lives for political concessions through a range of new policies which contradict our core values. Our politicians are failing the majority of kind, decent people in Waterford who have shown tremendous support and solidarity for people on the move in 2016 and they need to act. A new year brings new hope. We can do better in 2017 helping those with real humanitarian needs. JIM CLARKEN Chief Executive Oxfam Ireland

Christian Aid Ireland thanks readers for their support of people in poverty Dear Editor, I would like to sincerely thank your readers in Waterford on behalf of Christian Aid Ireland for their support and generosity during 2016 towards people living in poverty. This year, your kindness helped us to provide emergency support to families in Haiti whose homes and livelihoods were destroyed in October by Hurricane Matthew. We helped local organisations to distribute water purification tablets and trained people about the risks of cholera. Families were given seeds and livestock to rebuild their livelihoods, while cash grants supported people who had lost fishing equipment and reserves of food and seeds. Our work was also kindly supported by Irish Aid, the Government’s overseas aid programme. Through our Christmas Appeal we asked people in Waterford and across Ireland to ‘light the way’ for more than 65 million people fleeing violence across the world. Christian Aid Ireland also launched a new programme of work called ‘Tackling Violence, Building Peace’. Achieving peace can seem like an immense goal with so many conflicts ongoing in the world. However, with hope in our hearts and with the help of people across Waterford, we can continue to respond to the urgent needs of people suffering through conflicts in places such as Syria, Iraq, Myanmar and South Sudan, who so desperately need a safe place to call home. On behalf of Christian Aid Ireland, thank you once again to the people of Waterford and we wish you a happy and peaceful 2017. Yours sincerely, ROSAMOND BENNETT CEO Christian Aid Ireland

Support from Waterford helps lift rural African families out of poverty Dear Sir/Madam, Through your pages can I express a sincere ‘thank you’ on behalf of Gorta-Self Help Africa to the people of Waterford for their kindness and generosity in supporting our work in the past year. 2016 was an incredible year for us. We invested more funds, undertook more work, and reached more people than at any point in our long history during the past 12 months. 2016 saw us work with approximately 1.8 million people in nine different countries in sub-Saharan Africa. We helped rural poor households to grow more and better food, improve their homes and earn more money for the support and care of their families. Our projects – nearly 70 of them – also helped farming households to access vital new markets for the surplus produce they could grow, meaning that they were able to have money in their pockets to invest in their children, their homes, and their welfare. As a result of this work – only made possible because of the generous support of the Irish public – we enabled families to put better food on the table, helped them to afford clothing and school fees for their children, and assisted people to improve their homes and small farms. As we approach 2017 can I, on behalf of Gorta-Self Help Africa, wish all your readers a safe and a peaceful Christmas and New Year, and again say ‘thank you’ for your remarkable kindness and generosity. Yours sincerely Ray Jordan CEO, Gorta-Self Help Africa www.selfhelpafrica.org

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NEWS

Noreen and Johnny Byrne with Martin Kennedy.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

Angela and Declan Ryan with Michael O’Regan.

[Noel Browne]

Gabriel Power, Branch Manager, Kilmeaden Co-Op made a presentation to Henry Corbally, Chairman, Glanbia plc for his attendance at the launch of the book “Milking 100 Years of Memories” in The Sweep Bar. [Noel Browne] Author Jamie O’Keeffe and researcher Martin Kennedy are pictured with Pat Coady, Quality Milk Manager, Kilmeaden Co-Op; Brendan Hayes, Kilmeaden Co-Op Board member; Gabriel Power, Branch Manager, Kilmeaden Co-Op; Henry Corbally, Chairman, Glanbia plc and Niall Moore, Chairman, Kilmeaden Centenary Committee. [Noel Browne]

‘Kilmeaden Co-op Centenary, 1916-2016: Milking 100 Years of Memories’ by Jamie O’Keeffe Kilmeaden Co-op Book now on sale. Launched last Thursday in a packed Sweep Bar, ‘KIlmeaden Coop Centenary, 1916–2016: Milking 100 Years of Memories’ has received a very positive reaction. Brimfull of pictures, historical features, and personality profiles, the 200-page book, produced by writer and editorial designer Jamie O’Keeffe for the Glanbia Kilmeaden centenary committee, is available (priced €10) from the following outlets: Glanbia CountryLife, Kilmeaden; Cahills, Tramore; Happy Days, Kill; Kilmac’ Post Office; and Readers Choice, Lower Main St, Dungarvan.

Eileen Kirwan, Roger Shanahan and John O’Keeffe.

Paddy Foley and Martin Power.

[Noel Browne]

Attending the book launch of the Kilmeaden Co-Op 100th Anniversary were Kathlen Halley, Mary Kennedy and Martha Cleary. [Noel Browne]

[Noel Browne]

Brid Coady and Joan Power.

David and Sean O’Keeffe with Matt Murphy.

[Noel Browne]

Grace and Maria Kiersey, Catherine and John Power who attended the launch of the book “Milking 100 Years of Memories” in The Sweep Bar. [Noel Browne] Kathleen Foley and James Power.

Researcher Martin Kennedy pictured with family member’s Maura Kennedy, Suzie Moore, Mary Kennedy and Martha Cleary. [Noel Browne]

[Noel Browne]

Researcher Martin Kennedy pictured with John Deevy at the book launch. [Noel Browne]

Liam Walsh, Sue Phelan, Manager Tramore Racecourse and Frank Murphy, all former employees of [Noel Browne] Kilmeaden Co-Op.

Ann Foran and Bridget Power.

[Noel Browne]

Áine Hickman and Catherine Moore.

[Noel Browne]

Michael Harney, David Flynn and David Flynn Snr.

[Noel Browne]

Marian and Nell Ryan, Michael Harney and David Flynn.

[Noel Browne]

COUNTY NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

NEWSREEL … Anxious or Depressed?

COME to our Support Group Meeting in Dungarvan.Venue: Deise Day Care, Dungarvan, Community Centre, Mitchel Street. Date: Every Tuesday at 7.30 p.m. Helpline: 1800 804 848. You are not alone! Please note change in time. There will be no Aware Meeting on Tuesday, 27th December, 2016. Meetings will resume as usual on Tuesday, 3rd January, 2017. (ind.)

Are you interested in volunteering? ARE you passionate about hearing what children have to say? We want to hear from you! The ISPCC is now recruiting for Waterford-based volunteers for its Childline service. If you are able to commit to a four-hour shift each week, and are interested in providing a listening service for children, as part of a team of dedicated volunteers, then come along to one of our information evenings to find out more! To book your place on one of our information evenings please contact Sinéad on SBartosik@ISPCC.ie or call 051-595895.

Paidi Curran and friends in the water at the Helvick New Year’s Day Swim 2017 in Aid of Scoil Naisiunta na Rinne.

[Michael Kiely]

illustrated account of the early development of creameries in Co. Waterford, the main figures involved in their establishment, and how the creamery system in the county was transformed in the 1920’s and 1930’s. Dr. Proinnsias Breathnach is Senior Lecturer Emeritus in Geography at Maynooth University and his talk will be delivered in his inimitable style and is not to be missed! Please note that this will take place in the theatre proper and not in the green room. CONCERT – ‘MESSAGE OF PEACE’ TOUR WITH SEÁN TYRRELL We are delighted to announce that Seán Tyrrell will begin his 2017/18 tour of the USA, Canada and Australia here in Ireland at the Town Hall Theatre in Dungarvan at 8.00 p.m. on Thursday, 23rd February, 2017. Through a very entertaining combination of song, storytelling, theatre and history, Seán will tell the heroic story of the visionary, poet, rebel, freedom fighter and civil rights activist John Boyle O’Reilly. Denis B. Cashman of Abbeyside was one of the Fenians who played a prominent role in O’Reilly’s life. Full details available on the Museum’s website www.waterfordmuseum.ie and tickets are available from the Museum at the low price of €10. HISTORIC PLAQUES IN GRATTAN SQUARE If you take a wander around Grattan Square you will see the

historic plaques which have been installed so far. They illustrate people and events relating to Dungarvan down through the ages. OLD PHOTOGRAPHS If you have any old photographs of people, places, ships, sports events etc. we would be very happy to accept them. We would scan them and give you back the originals. VISITING THE MUSEUM We welcome visits from schools, community groups, and local history societies. Please contact us at 058 45960 to arrange a visit. Let us know if you are interested in a particular subject and we will focus on that during the visit. OPENING HOURS Monday to Friday 10.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m. Admission is free.

St. Michael’s Hall Ballyduff Upper Card Results 1st - Larry Byrnes & Pat Kirby, Dan Howard & Eddie Sheehan. 4th/5th - Noel Geary & Finbarr Byrnes. Lucky Tables - Bob & Mary Allen, Sean Higgins, Eddie Byrnes, Mary Fitzgerald, Joan Hannon. Raffle - Sheila Longergan, Sean Higgins, PJ McInnerny, Finbarr Byrnes, Pat Kirby x 2, Tom Casey, Ann Geary, Rita Leamy, Peg Murray, Helen Cunningham, Helen Walsh, Delia Cashell, Hugh Geary x 2, Bill Leddy and Ned Geary.

Abbeyside/Ballinroad/Garranbane Senior Citizens Christmas Party THE Senior Citizens Annual Christmas Party will take place this coming Sunday, January 8th in the Park Hotel. Dinner will be served at 2.00 p.m. priced at €20. If you wish to attend please contact any committee member.

Ballinameela Lotto Results 26/12/’16 – Numbers drawn were 9, 13 and 23. There was no winner. €20 winners were Rene Cotter, Aglish; Lumber Jacks, Aglish; Mike Beston, Aglish; Stanley Mernin, Aglish; Mossie Glavin, Aglish. 2/1/17 – Numbers drawn were 7, 28 and 29.There was no winner. €20 winners were Kate Morrissey, Cluttahinna; Sinead Griffin, Knocknaskeigh; Jim Power, Ballymullala; Devine Lads, Dungarvan; Gracie and Izzy McGrath, Ballinameela. Next week’s Jackpot is €3,800 and the draw will take place in the Welcome Inn.

TALK: THE EARLY DEVELOPMENT OF CREAMERIES IN COUNTY WATERFORD 1885-1935, BY DR. PROINNSIAS BREATHNACH Our first talk of 2017 will take place at the Town Hall Theatre on Wednesday 25th January 2017 at 8.00 p.m., admission €5. The theme is sure to be of great local

interest, both to the rural community of our county and to Dungarvan itself where Waterford Co-op was situated. All that remains now of that industrious place is a statue which displays a man rolling a ten gallon churn which is situated where the entrance from Grattan Square to the Co-op was. This presentation will be an

Object of the Week Train Ticket Used by Risteard de Hindeburg (1863-1916) on 31st December 1902. Priest, Irish language activist, author, musician. Richard Henebry was born on 18th September 1863 at Mount Bolton, Portlaw, Co. Waterford. After his ordination as a priest in 1892 he spent some time in Greifswald and Freiburg where he obtained a Doctorate in Philosophy. In 1898 he was appointed to the post of Chair of Irish Celtic Studies at the Catholic University of America, Washington D.C. When the National University of Ireland was founded in 1908 he was appointed Professor of Irish in University College Cork. He was also one of the founders of Coláiste na Rinne. He suffered from tuberculosis and the climate in America suited him. In December 1902 he travelled to Colorado Springs to stay with the Sisters of Charity at the Glockner Sanatorium.

FIRST WORLD WAR WATERFORD CASUALTY LIST FOR WEEK ENDING 28th DECEMBER, 2016

Pat and Aoibhe Devereux pictured in the water at the Helvick New Year’s Day Swim 2017 in Aid of Scoil Naisiunta na Rinne. [Michael Kiely]

COUNTY NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

Stradbally FEAST OF EPIPHANY Mass times in Stradbally for the Holy Day of Obligation are as follows: Holy Cross Church Stradbally - Thursday, 5th January Vigil Mass at 7.30 p.m. Sacred Heart Church Faha Friday, 6th January - Mass at 9.00 a.m. St. Ann’s Church Ballylaneen Friday, 6th January - Mass at 11.00 a.m. RECENT BAPTISM Isla Siobán Curran, Rockville and Australia, daughter of Brian Curran and Kerrie-Ann Gamble was baptised at Holy Cross Church, Stradbally, on Sunday, 1st January, 2017. The godparents were Michael and Margaret Curran. Fr. Jerry Condon, P.P., officiated. PATRICK GALVIN It is with deep regret we record the death of Patrick Galvin, Curraheen, Stradbally, on Monday, 26th December, 2016. Pat lay in repose at his residence on Tuesday, 27th December, where the Rosary was recited at 7.30 p.m. and family, friends and neighbours came to pay their respects. The Funeral Mass took place at Holy Cross Church, Stradbally on Wednesday, 28th December at 11.00 a.m. The Mass was celebrated by Fr. Jerry Condon, P.P., assisted by Fr. Michael Enright, former Parish Priest of Stradbally. Dina Walsh provided the music during the ceremony. Following the Mass, Pat was laid to rest in the adjoining cemetery. Deepest sympathy is extended to Pat’s wife Breda; sons Pat and Francis; daughter Marie; sister Sr. Rosarii; nieces Mary, Helen, Patricia and Regina; nephews John and Pat and the Cunningham family, Stradbally. May he rest in peace. BILLY MORRISSEY It was with sorrow that the community learned of the sad passing of Billy Morrissey, Kilminion, Stradbally, on Wednesday, 28th December. Billy

lay in repose at Drohan’s Funeral Home, Dungarvan and Thursday, 29th December where prayers were recited. Removal took place to Holy Cross Church, Stradbally for 1.30 p.m. Funeral Mass celebrated by Fr. Jerry Condon, P.P. The readers of the Liturgy were Irene and Bernie (nieces). The Prayers of the Faithful were shared by Anne-Marie, Liam, Stephen, Anita and Pat. The gifts at the offertory were brought to the altar by Claire, Niamh and Sophie.The Eulogy was given by Anthony Morrissey (nephew). Following the Mass, Billy was laid to rest in the adjoining cemetery. Deepest sympathy to his brothers Tomás and Paddy; sisters Bridie, Mary, Nellie, Kathleen and Ann; nieces, nephews, sisters-in-law, grandnieces, grand-nephews and the extended family. MAIREAD D’ARCY The beautiful Christmas Tree still illuminates the Square in Stradbally but the brightest light went out on St. Stephen’s evening when the news of the tragic accident at the Pike Racetrack filtered through that Mairead D’Arcy had lost her life taking part in a sport that she excelled at and loved so well. No words can describe the anguish of her parents, friends and neighbours or the whole community in the days that have followed. Mairead a fun-loving thirty year old daughter of Ray and Ann D’Arcy, Ballyvooney, Stradbally, and sister to Triona, John and Raymond and sister-inlaw to Ambrose. A member and Treasurer of the Parish Pastoral Council, a Child Protection Officer representing Stradbally in the Diocese of Waterford. A reader of the Liturgy in the Parish Church. Teacher - Ambassador of Maud’s Little Learners School. Reposing at her residence at Ballyvooney on Thursday, 29th December, where hundreds came from all over the county and further afield to pay respects to a

much loved friend and colleague. Mairead’s Funeral Mass and celebration of her action-packed life took place at her Parish Church of Holy Cross in Stradbally at 11.00 a.m. on Friday, 30th December. A Guard of Honour was provided by Le Cheile colleagues, Maud’s Little Learners and the Hot Rod Clubs. Fr. Jerry Condon, P.P., celebrated the Mass assisted by Fr. Collender, Fr. Ryan (cousin), Rev. James Mulhall, St. James Church of Ireland Parish, Stradbally. The music during the Mass was provided by organist Dina Walsh, with soloist Katie Power and David Power on Uileann Pipes. The readers of the Liturgy were Triona O’Gorman and Julie Watson. The offertory gifts were brought to the altar by Raymond D’Arcy and Ambrose O’Gorman. The Prayers of the Faithful were shared by Marie Galvin, Catherine O’Regan, Karen D’Arcy, David Wall, Aideen Quinlan, Tracey Fennell and Ann Navin. At Communion “Amazing Grace” was sung by Triona O’Gorman, Marie Galvin and Catherine O’Regan. A very fitting Eulogy was delivered by John D’Arcy (brother). To the piping of David Power’s “Taimse im’ Chodladh” the pall bearers Tony Whelan, Alan D’Arcy, Raymond D’Arcy, Ray D’Arcy, Ambrose O’Gorman and David Wall carried Mairead to her resting place. Following the prayers at the graveside Maud’s Little Learners released some balloons in a tribute to their beloved teacher to the strains of “Simply The Best”. Deepest sympathy to parents Ray and Ann D’Arcy; sister Triona; brothers John and Raymond; brother-in-law Ambrose and the extended family. LOTTO DRAW There was no Jackpot winner in the Lotto Draw held in O’Mahonys last week.The num-

bers drawn were 3, 8, 14 and 17. The €25 winners were Ger Crowley, Breda Cummins and Joan Crotty. The promoter’s prizewinner was Mary Sheehan. The next draw will take place in Whelan’s Bar on Sunday night, 7th January with a Jackpot on offer of €4,900. Thanks to all who continue to support our Lotto. Thanks also to all those who participated and attended at the Annual Christmas Day Swim. A bumper crowd enjoyed themselves immensely and over €1,000 was raised for St. John’s Special School, Dungarvan. A special mention of Ben Dunphy who ensured all were safe. Míle buiochas to those who supplied and sponsored the hot drinks and soup namely: Whelan’s Bar, Cunningham’s XL Store, The Cove Bar, Farm Relief Services, Kilmacthomas and O’Mahony’s Durrow. FIXTURES Saturday, 7th January - Under 14 League - Waterford Crystal v Stradbally at 12.30 p.m. Junior League - Stradbally v Ballinroad at 2.00 p.m. STRADBALLY MARKET Stradbally Market Producers would like to wish all our customers a very Happy New Year and to say we will be back after the Christmas break at the Cove Bar on Saturday, 14th January at 10.30 a.m. with all the usual products. PANTO “Snow White and a Number of Dwarfs” which was due to take place on the 28th and 29th December is now rescheduled for a date in March due to local bereavements. All tickets are transferable. For those wishing a refund, or any enquiries, please ring Nicola on 087-7160700. ACTIVE RETIREMENT Our next gathering (1st after Christmas) of Tay and Mahon Valley ARA on Monday, 9th January, Barron Hall, 2.00 p.m. to 4.00 p.m. All welcome.

Remembrance WE have come to an end of another year, many of our friends and acquaintances are no longer with us. Dick McKeown, Marie O’Shea, Willie Hunt, Mary Francis Murphy Carey, Niall McKeon, Maureen Burchael (nee Corbett), Kitty O’Brien (NT), Tom O’Reilly, Jimmy White,

Mairead Darcy

Liam Hogan, Ross Whelan, Billy McCarthy (CC and WLR), John Kett, John Fitzgerald, Rachel Hennessy, Pat Galvin, Bill Morrissey and Mairead Darcy. Mairead Darcy, Ballyvooney, tragically killed in an accident whilst taking part in a “Ladies Race” during the “Hot Rod” event at the Pike venue on the 28th December. On October 20th, Rev. James Mulhall, Fr. Jerry Condon, P.P. and Rev. Jenny Crowley led an ‘Ecumenical Service’ in the Holy Cross Church to remember those who died in tragic circumstances. An excellent ceremony with beautiful reflections and music. Little did we realise, that before the year was out, three families in our community would suffer

such sad and tragic news. All young people. John Fitzgerald died November 24th, car accident in Belfast. Rachel Hennessy died December 10th, car crash 5x Road. Mairead Darcy died 26th

December, accident Hot Rod race in the Pike. Do not know what to say. Maybe a Reflection. Buiochas agus Slán Ar dheis Dé ar a ainm

Pictured at Kilmurrin Cove taking part in the annual Michael Power Memorial Christmas Day Swim 2016 the proceeds of which will go to Nadine's Cancer Battle fund were Louise and Derek Flynn. [John Power]

Pictured at Kilmurrin Cove taking part in the annual Michael Power Memorial Christmas Day Swim 2016 the proceeds of which will go to Nadine's Cancer Battle fund were Michael Casey and Peter Kirwan. [John Power]

Pictured at Kilmurrin Cove taking part in the annual Michael Power Memorial Christmas Day Swim 2016 the proceeds of which will go to Nadine's Cancer Battle fund were Liam Walsh and Colm Power. [John Power]

One Little Rose I would rather have one little rose from the garden of a friend Than to have the choicest flowers when my stay on earth best end. I would rather have one pleasant word of kindness said to me, Than flattery when my heart is still and life has ceased. I would rather have a loving smile from friends are true, Than tears shed around my casket when the world I've bid adieu. Bring me all your flowers today whether ping or white or red, I'd rather have one blossom now than millions when I'm dead.

Pictured at Kilmurrin Cove taking part in the annual Michael Power Memorial Christmas Day Swim 2016 the proceeds of which will go to Nadine's Cancer Battle fund were Brendan Farrell and Jon Doyle, Irish Red Cross. [John Power]

COUNTY NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

Bonmahon PARTY ON! Happy Birthday to our FOUR birthday teenagers who celebrated with us at The Art Hand recently, creating slate mosaics under the guidance of Professor Bang & his assistant Skittles. Great fun was had by all and the nearly-adult-birthday-children were delighted to get together with their friends for the afternoon. Congratulations to all again! 2016 has been yet another incredibly exciting year for us here at The Art Hand. We are looking forward to 2017 and would like to wish all our friends a truly wonderful New Year!

Professor Bang gets creative at the recent birthday bash for Laoise, Sean, Sophie-Anne and Enya. Happy Birthday to all!

Copper Coast Scouting Group on the move BEST wishes to the Copper Coast Scouting Group who will be moving premises from in early 2017. A big thank you to the owner of Annestown House who has made use of the house and grounds available to the group, your support for this evergrowing, strong scouting group is much appreciated! Early in the new year, we will commence work on this historic building. We are excited to become part of Annestown House’s rich history and about this fantastic project which we are confident will teach our members and friends of all ages not just technical skills but also strengthen our resolve to teamwork and community spirit. Onwards and upwards! A big thank you to all who purchased raffle tickets for the national draw – there are as always fantastic prizes to be won, so fingers crossed that one or two will make it to the Copper Coast in January’s draw!

Children in 4th and 5th class who kindly donated money for the Lions Club Christmas Appeal. They raised €90 from a Pyjamas Day in school on the 21st of December. Well done to all involved!

Kill BOOKS GALORE! We are delighted to have so many creative authors in our local area – congratulations to all who recently published books and made them available for sale so we can all enjoy a taste of Kill and surrounding area and its history: Tom Power’s “The Mysterious John Grey” is available again in Happy Days Shop in Kill, a wonderful story of years gone past, filled with characters you could easily put current day names on. Find out for yourself! Our very own Martin Kennedy was involved again in an advisory capacity in a wonderful publication by Jamie O’Keefe in the centenary production of “Kilmeaden Co-op –

Milking 100 Years of Memories” The book contains 200 pages with lots of interesting facts and figures and is a treasure trove of pictures spanning over the last century. The book can be purchased at €10 from Happy Days in Kill, Kilmacthomas post office and many other outlets. Tom O’Neill also recently published “Tales from my past”, a collection of short stories which many can relate to and those who can’t get a good chuckle out of them! The book can be obtained from Tom by calling 087-2977502. KILL GAA LOTTO A big thank you to all who have supported our lotto throughout the year and heartfelt

congratulations to the winners of our Christmas Special Draw last week who won €100 each. We will take a break from the draw this week and will be back with the next chance to win the jackpot of €10,000 on Monday, 2nd January to help with all those dreaded January bills – good luck everybody! KILL ACTION & ALERT GROUP We were delighted to pay visits to members of our community who were nominated at very short notice – please note, these visits were accompanied with little hampers, not because people needed them but because we had them to give and it’s nice to give, especially at Christmas! Whether it’s to say “Welcome to

Kill”, or to say “Call us if you need us” or “We were thinking of you” – isn’t this what community is all about? We were thrilled to be working with our friends in the Irish Red Cross Portlaw and the Helping Hand in Waterford to make it happen. Remember, if you are stuck at any time, be this for health reasons or for bad weather conditions, please call us on 0874133522 and we’ll do our best to assist. With best wishes for the New Year from all of us at the Kill Action Group. Please keep an eye out for suspicious behaviour this season and report any concerns to Tramore Gardai on 051-391620.

A group of Copper Coast Scouts are working hard to restore the Beach Hut by Annestown beach. They have repaired the roof and started to paint the walls. The aim is to open up an Ice Cream/Sweet shop in time for the Easter holidays 2017. More details to follow about their progress and the tremendous support they have received from individuals and local businesses. Watch this space!

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

Pictured at Kilmurrin Cove taking part in the annual Michael Power Memorial Christmas Day Swim 2016 the proceeds of which will go to Nadine's Cancer Battle fund was Nadine with her parents Kamm and Sarah. [John Power]

MICHAEL POWER MEMORIAL SWIM

Pictured at Kilmurrin Cove taking part in the annual Michael Power Memorial Christmas Day Swim 2016 the proceeds of which will go to Nadine's Cancer Battle fund were John Power and Tom Power, Chairman, Michael Power Memorial Swim. [John Power]

Pictured at Kilmurrin Cove taking part in the annual Michael Power Memorial Christmas Day Swim 2016 were two happy swimmers. [John Power] Pictured at Kilmurrin Cove taking part in the annual Michael Power Memorial Christmas Day Swim 2016 were Olivia Gooney, Marie Roche and Natasha Holden, Bunmahon Coast Guard. [John Power]

Pictured at Kilmurrin Cove taking part in the annual Michael Power Memorial Christmas Day Swim 2016 the proceeds of which will go to Nadine's Cancer Battle fund were Breda and Sadie Flynn. [John Power]

Pictured at Kilmurrin Cove taking part in the annual Michael Power Memorial Christmas Day Swim 2016 the proceeds of which will go to Nadine's Cancer Battle fund were Jack, Amy, Jimmy and "Kohi". [John Power]

Pictured at Kilmurrin Cove taking part in the annual Michael Power Memorial Christmas Day Swim 2016 the proceeds of which will go to Nadine's Cancer Battle fund were Elaine Whittle and Helen O'Neill. [John Power]

Pictured at Kilmurrin Cove taking part in the annual Michael Power Memorial Christmas Day Swim 2016 were Lucasz and David Pacud. [John Power]

Pictured at Kilmurrin Cove taking part in the annual Michael Power Memorial Christmas Day Swim 2016 the proceeds of which will go to Nadine's Cancer Battle fund were the Casey brothers. [John Power]

Pictured at Kilmurrin Cove taking part in the annual Michael Power Memorial Christmas Day Swim 2016 were Brian Fleming, Kane Lynch and Colm Lynch, Bonmahon Coast Guard. [John Power]

Pictured at Kilmurrin Cove taking part in the annual Michael Power Memorial Christmas Day Swim 2016 the proceeds of which will go to Nadine's Cancer Battle fund was Kieran Foley. [John Power]

Pictured at Kilmurrin Cove taking part in the annual Michael Power Memorial Christmas Day Swim 2016 the proceeds of which will go to Nadine's Cancer Battle fund was Belinda Kearns. [John Power]

COUNTY NEWS

Modeligo LOTTO RESULTS 23rd DECEMBER Numbers drawn were 5, 13 and 15. No Winner. €25 winners were TJ Fitzgerald, Ceire Ryan, Willie Bumster, Nora Fitzgerald. CHRISTMAS DRAW WINNERS Kevin Curran, Dolores Coughlan, Stella O’Byrne, Mikey Walsh, Aoife O’Donovan, Mike Foley, Jackie O’Connor, Ned & Mary Ryan, Mary-Anne Troy, Tom Kiely. Promotor’s Prize – Deirdre Hennessy. LOTTO RESULTS 30th DECEMBER Numbers drawn were 4, 8 and 14. No Winner. Next Week’s Jackpot €700. €25 winners were Daniel & Christine Collins, Kinsalebeg; Mary Barron, Modeligo; Davie Foley, Clashmore and Mary Jo Lynch, Modeligo. Lotto draw will resume as normal next Saturday. BOOKINGS Anyone looking to book the Astro-turf or hall please contact John Power on 087-2834600. Wishing everyone a Happy New Year all the best for 2017.

Ballysaggart HAPPY NEW YEAR Happy New Year from Ballysaggart to all our Family and Friends where ever you may be. Hope that 2017 is a Healthy and Happy one for everyone. CONDOLENCES The Ballysaggart community extends its deepest sympathies to the families of Dermot Canning,Waterpark, Ballyduff Upper and Tommy Whelan, Townspark, Lismore who died recently. May they rest in peace. COMMUNITY COUNCIL 45 CARDS RESULTS 22/12/16 - 1st: Nellie Devine and Tess Hale. 2nd: Tom Casey and Hugh Geary. Lucky Tables: Fr. Cullinan and Stephen Cunningham, Dan and Bridie Brien, Mary Byrne and Tom Veale. 29/12/16 - 1st: Dan Howard and Fionuala Hynes. 2nd: Rita Doocey and Delia Cashell. Lucky Tables: Christy Higgins and Ned Geary, Tom and Andrew, Sheila Lonergan and Pat Ryan. Tickets: Andrew England x 2, Tess Hale, Hugh Geary and Dave Fennessy. Wishing all our card players all the best for 2017.

Ardmore is gearing up to get fit and healthy THE call’s gone out to residents of Ardmore, and surrounding areas, to get fit and healthy for the new year as part of RTE’s ‘Operation Transformation’. Having proved hugely successful last year, the Ardmore Pattern Festival committee are bringing it back with 3km and 5km walks every Monday and Wednesday evening, as well as additional activities at the weekends. They’re got special talks, lots of advice and plenty of support for anyone looking to shed a few post-Christmas pounds, or simply hoping to get a little bit healthier. Everybody’s welcome and it all begins with an official registration and the first weigh-in at the ICA Hall in Ardmore on Monday 9th of January at 7.00 p.m. (€2 per person). Further information can be found on their facebook page: w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / a r d morepatternfestival

Abbeyside / Ballinroad / Garranbane Senior Citizens Christmas Party THE Senior Citizens Annual Christmas Party will take place this coming Sunday, January 8th in the Park Hotel. Dinner will be served at 2.00 p.m. priced at €20. If you wish to attend please contact any committee member.

Christmas in Ballysaggart - The crib in St. Mary's Church Ballysaggart on Christmas Morning 2016. [Mary Glavin]

Christmas in Ballysaggart – Picture shows the beautiful altar in St. Mary's [Mary Glavin] Church Ballysaggart on Christmas Morning 2016.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

The Cynic I would wish to be as I have been, When love and trust were all I knew, And deceitful smirks were never seen, Behind the smiles I thought were true, When everyone was a welcome friend, And the world was a wondrous place to be, Where every path was flower-fringed, And every flower bloomed for me.

Kilrossanty

From these sweet wisps of memory, I weave again a childhood dream, That leaps to life in ecstasy, When things are once more what they seem.

HALL The Annual General Meeting of the hall will be held in the hall on Wednesday, 11th January at 8.30 p.m. BINGO The next Bingo will be held on Friday, 27th January at 8.30 p.m. sharp in Crotty’s Inn. Prize money €1,200 plus raffle for cash prizes. The proceeds will go towards Kilrossanty Parish Building Fund. MARRIAGE Many congratulations to Kristina Keating, Carrigeenageragh and Paul Curtin, Ballyporeen on the occasion of their marriage last Thursday in Kilrossanty Church followed by reception in the Park Hotel, Dungarvan. Many years of wedded bliss to you both for the future together. DEATH Sympathy to Mary Hennebry, Bellaheen, and to the entire Morrissey family Kilminion on the death of Bill Morrisssey last week. May he rest in peace. Also sympathy to the D’Arcy family, Ballyvooney on the tragic death of Mairead Darcy who died as a result of accident last week. May she rest in peace. CLERGY Thanks to all who contributed to the Clergy collection recently. Your generosity is appreciated. THANKS Thanks to all who helped in any way over the Christmas period with the ceremonies in the churches. To the readers, the servers, the choir, the eucharistic ministers, sacristans, and who helped to put up tree and crib in the church. Many thanks. A.G.M. GAA Annual General meeting in St. Brigids Hall this Saturday night at 8.00 p.m.

But some vague where, at some vague time, Experience sowed a seed of doubt, Too small I thought, to undermine, The things a child might dream about. Small it was in the world’s great schemes, when innocence abandoned me, But the cynics curse destroyed my dreams, Since the seed of doubt grew to a tree. Childhood virtues are now crushed, Beneath the harsh heel of the world, And innocence; and dreams; and trust; Upon life’s rubbish heap are hurled. John Daly

NEWS ITEMS All news items and notes are to be forwarded to the following email address: news@dungarvanobserver.ie

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

COUNTY NEWS

Sleight of Hand

By Donal Buckley FOR the best part of a century now, Superman has been disguising himself with a pair of spectacles. As his alter ego, Clark Kent, the bumbling copywriter at the Daily Planet newspaper, he hid himself in plain sight. It doesn't say a whole lot about the abilities of investigative journalist Lois Lane and her colleagues at the paper. Of course, it was all a ploy, so that there would be a sense of continuity for the comic book readers and the movie viewers. I don't know if Superman today would attract the same kind of awe as he did in the 1930's. A lot of things have changed since then. For a start, there would be no phone boxes for him to change his costume. Superheroes and their aliases are usually pretty obvious and created for dramatic purpose, not for serious deception. In reality, deception is a life choice for the seamier side of humanity. The very nature of deception makes it an important weapon in the arsenal of the rich and powerful. If 2016 has taught us anything, its that things are not always what they seem. Elections, referendums and any other popularity contests are becoming more and more dependant on distractions and diversions. The success of a candidate is as much reliant on denigrating the opponent as promoting the candidates purity. Religion, of course, has been used by the great, the good and the not so good since time began. In the 15th and 16th centuries,The Borgia family from Spain professed their undying loyalty to the Roman Catholic church. They provided finance and soldiers for holy wars.They sponsored major architectural works and were patrons of the arts and cultural festivities. Because of all this “devotion”,

The Borgia family had three members of their family appointed as Pope. How wonderful! But, the Borgias were extremely corrupt. Their rise to fame was powered by breaking every one of the Ten Commandments, at least once. The Seven Deadly Sins could have been the family coat of arms. Murder, bribery and extortion were the mission statement for “Borgia Incorporated”. Ironically, the last Pope to represent the family was called Innocent X. Even though the Bible says, “it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter the Kingdom of Heaven”, it didn’t prevent the Vatican from selling Plenary Indulgences.This was a financial scam where wealthy people could buy their way in to Paradise. They would even pay poor people to say their prayers for them. In more recent times, the Mafia were regular church goers and major contributors to parochial funds. Similarly, the IRA show their devotion to the Big Kahuna in the sky, with their own bigoted agenda. Ill gotten gains have always funded church roofs, parish activities and statues to assuage the guilt of the donors. Of course, not all donations come from nefarious sources. But, you have to ask, why couldn't such unsolicited generosity be given anonymously, without expectation of repayment in the next life? Will the Supreme Being sit on his throne and look down on the approaching individual and say, “Is it a bird? Is it a plane? Is it cash or card?” Ballinameela Creatives are recovering from Christmas and New Year over indulgences (not of the Plenary kind, though God’s name was mentioned on more than one occasion!) American Senior Civil Servant Paul Wolfowitz said, “Sometimes corruption is slowed by shedding light into what was previously shadowed.”

The O'Dea family pictured at the Helvick New Year’s Day Swim 2017 in Aid of Scoil Naisiunta na Rinne.

[Michael Kiely]

Oisin Downey, Cormac O'Mahony, Micheal and Seanai Kiely and Siobhan O'Mahoney pictured in the water at the Helvick New Year’s Day [Michael Kiely] Swim 2017 in Aid of Scoil Naisiunta na Rinne.

COUNTY NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

Cappoquin Cappoquin Community Centre Ltd. SATURDAY SUPERVISED STUDY 2017 With exams on the horizon, we have had many requests for Saturday Supervised Study in 2017. If you are interested, please contact the Company Office any morning. MARY BUTLER, TD Mrs. Mary Butler TD Fianna Fail will hold a Clinic on the first Saturday of every month at 1.00 p.m. in the Community Centre. All are welcome. OPERATION TRANSFORMATION 2017, REGISTRATION We had a fine crowd for registration for Operation Transformation last Thursday night. Anyone who missed out you can contact Maura Purcell or Christina Johnston in the Community Centre. Operation Transformation will begin in early January 2017 for 10 weeks, keep watching these notes for dates. UPCOMING EVENTS We will have a hectic start to 2017 with January seeing Operation Transformation up and running, February 4th the excellent Sharon Shannon plays in concert followed by the eagerly awaited Valentines Dance on the 11th of February. The highly popular Keith Barry is back to us again on the 17th February followed by the exciting Jigs and Reels on the 1st April. We are also delighted to announce that comedian Pat Shortt is performing his new show in the 30th September. Tickets for Sharon Shannon and Keith Barry are now on sale at our Company Office (058) 52746, Feerick’s Pharmacy Cappoquin (058) 54165, Ballyrafter Service Station Lismore (058) 54665 and John Foley Service Station Kilrush Dungarvan

(058) 42998 book early, an excellent New Year present indeed! GYM Fancy doing your training session before you go to Work/School or College well now you can as our ultra-modern Gym. Our Gym is equipped with Irelands most ultra-modern equipment which can cater from all Cardiovascular equipment to all Resistance training machines and loose weights.You can pay as you go or join up as a member. Our prices are most competitive with yearly membership is €200, 6 months €100, 3 months €60 and monthly €25. WEEKLY EVENTS IN HALL Gym opening times are 8.00 a.m. to 10.00 p.m., Gym Instructor Conor Prendergast available to offer every assistance on (087) 1247025 Ladies Exercise Classes 10.30 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. with Paul Murray, ARA every Monday afternoon. Railway Athletic Soccer Monday evening and Affane Bridge, Circuit Training with Conor Prendergast 7.00 p.m. Tuesday & Thursday nights. Blackwater Athletics every Tuesday 5.30 p.m. to 7.00 p.m. Wednesday morning Quiddlers 10.00 a.m. to 12.00 noon, evening time Cappoquin Juvenile 5.45 p.m. to 6.45 p.m., Badminton 7.30 p.m. to 10.00 p.m.Thursday morning 10.30 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. Ladies Exercises with Paul Murray, Cappoquin Camogie 5.30 p.m. – 6.30 p.m., Community Soccer 8.30 p.m. to 10.00 p.m. Friday evenings Gymnastics 5.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m. WATERFORD WEXFORD ETB Just a reminder anyone interested in doing a wide range of courses contact Edel Walsh (058) 52570 First Floor of the Community Centre.

TD $BUIBSUIB $FBQBDI $IPJOO B /

Winter Solstice Count Down near Tallow, Co. Waterford taken on December 20th, last sunny morning before the 21st. [John O’Mahony]

Lismore Lismore Tidy Towns A HAPPY 2017 to all in the Lismore Community and beyond from Lismore Tidy Towns. As a group we look forward to working with the many different bodies and organisations in the town and its environs in the coming year. Before Christmas two new workers started working with us as part of the Community Employment Scheme namely

Henry Hurton and Jim Noonan. We welcome them as part of the tidy towns working team in Lismore . The sympathy of Lismore Tidy Towns is extended to the family of Tommy Whelan Townparks, Lismore who died recently. Tommy was an active member of the tidy towns working team up to a few years ago. May he rest in peace.

ECO TIP OF THE WEEK As we start a new year people think of new year resolutions so now is the time to think of the issue of WASTE and see if could you come up with your own ideas re reducing waste in the following areas: • Water • Food • General

Lismore Dramatic Society NEW BUS TIMETABLE Our sincere thanks to James O'Donoghue of Déise Link and to Fr. Gear and the Parish Hall committee for facilitating the new bus timetable display, on the wall at the Parish Hall. This is something Civic Link has asked for in recent times. We feel it is an important reminder that the excellent bus service is here to stay, and is a vital link for the community. Déise Link is looking into the options for a small bus shelter too, though we are unsure of the location proposed at this stage. CHRISTMAS RIBBONS AND THANKS Taking the ribbon costs from the total, our income from the 2016 Christmas Remembrance ribbons came to a nice round figure of €700. This will all be put towards the umbrella insurance cover for a number of community events which simply could not happen were it not for the cover, so a sincere thanks to everyone for your support. The tree at the Square is probably our most colourful yet, thanks also to your generosity. We take this opportunity to wish everyone a happy 2017 as well. There are some positive

signs of economic recovery around the place, and some rumours of more to follow, so we will be keeping the fingers crossed. TELLING 'HER STORY' The Heritage Group has begun its efforts to track down as many photos and stories as possible, of the role of women in local life. We are looking for material from the past and present. The effort will run throughout 2017 and we expect to mount at least an exhibitions and possibly publish a book, if we can gather sufficient material. From the days of the Countesss of Desmond over 400 years ago, to Lusitania survivors, war veterans, artists and writers in modern times, women have played a huge role in the life of our area, a role which has often been downlayed in history.We are simply trying to set the record straight, with an eye to the centenary of women being given the (limited) right to vote in 1918. Any member of the Heritage Group will be delighted to accept photos, memorabilia, stories, etc., in the coming months, but don't leave it too late as we already have a lot of leads to follow. This week, just to whet the appetites, we offer two photos of

THE first rehearsal for our new “west end musical extravaganza” will take place this Friday, 6th January in the Courthouse Theatre 7.00 p.m. – 9.00 p.m. for all those who auditioned. If

you are interested in auditioning or taking part in any way on or off stage please come along on the night. We are always open to new members and new ideas, so feel free to contact us and maybe

make it your new years resolution to get involved in something new!! There are other productions in the pipeline for the coming season so watch this space!!

Máire Mac an tSaoi. very well known writers with local roots. Máire Mac an tSaoi, one of the greatest poets in the Irish language, is now 94 years of age. Her mother was a teacher at Alexandra College in Dublin who married the politician Seán McEntee. She was, of course, also one of the famous Browne family which produced a cardinal, a university president, the author of 'The Big Sycamore' and which originally lived in Mill Street, Cappoquin, in the house now owned by Mickey and Jennie Fraher. The other image here shows Dervla Murphy with her muchtravelled bicycle. Dervla is most commonly associated with Lismore, where she still lives, but she was certainly born in Dr. White's house in Cappoquin and has written of how her father brought a gramophone and some classical music records to play to his new-born daughter there. The house is now owned by Arthur and Verlayne Maderson.

First moon of 2017 waxing at 17% visible while reflecting light on Venus. Taken January 2nd, 2017, near Tallow. [John O'Mahony]

COUNTY NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

Dungarvan Men’s Shed DU

VAN GAR

menssheds.ie HAPPY NEW YEAR! As things return to normal in the Shed after the festivities we wish everybody a contented and healthy 2017. We hope that your dreams and hopes for the year will be delivered in abundance as we begin another step in the journey of the Shed which will be five years opened in May 2017. ENJOYABLE COFFEE MORNING Thanks and appreciation to Lucia Quealy and John McGrath of Terra Nua Builders who hosted a most enjoyable and relaxed coffee morning in the Interlude during Christmas week. We enjoyed the delicious festive food and wonderful ambience provided by Susan Denn and staff. It was nice to wind down and have a chat with David O’Connor of Dungarvan Paints and D.I.Y who joined us also. “COOLE MOVE” (PART 1) by Terry Lomax who is a regular and loyal member of the Shed. Terry recalls his experience of moving from Dorset to live in Ireland. It’s the 8th of March 2010, and what a fresh, spring morning it is, still dark, but a nice cool, dry day at West Bay on the Dorset coast, the sun should be up in about an hour. The van is packed with everything we own; I’ve checked engine oil, water, screen wash and everything else I can think of, we’ve got quite a trip ahead. A few hundred miles to go, mainly motorway which is often boring, but motorways get you to your destination usually with minimum fuss. We’ve had a lot to organise, moving house is usually complicated and stressful, often fraught with problems, and we’re moving to another country. It’s nice to get on the road at last with the sunny dawn, first stop, Exeter in Devon to pick up our

two cats, Percy and Coco from the Cats ‘Hotel’. The people who own the place are very nice and caring, but it’s always good to get our cats back with us. After about an hour and a half we arrive at the Cat’s Hotel, and put the cats into the travelling cage aboard the van. With Kathy, my partner sitting in the passenger seat, and everything else we own packed into the van, our whole world on four wheels, Ireland here we come! We chose Dungarvan on the map, it being apparently not too big, on the south coast, roughly midway between two larger towns, Cork and Waterford. I am looking forward to the ferry trip, being on a ship as a traveller is totally different from being part of the crew of a warship. In the Royal Navy as an aircraft engineer, I was either working or sleeping, as a traveller I can just enjoy the experience, I hope Kathy does too. Even though Kathy and I are in our late fifties, we've really looked forward to this day, the last leg of our move. After a few hundred motorway miles we arrive at Pembroke Dock in West Wales for the ferry to Rosslare in Ireland. I don’t want to wish unpleasant things on other people, but I hope it’s a rough sea on the way across to Ireland; I always enjoyed that back in my navy days. As the ferry set sail from Pembroke dock and we were at sea, I felt that we were almost there. Walking around the ferry was refreshing, and another passenger, a man with a ginger beard said, “Be prepared, there might be a delay when we arrive at Rosslare, if the sea is too rough the ferry won’t be able to dock” After four and a half hours at sea the ferry docked at Rosslare with no delay, we were soon on the road again with a two hour drive to Dungarvan along the South coast of Ireland. We finally arrive at Dungarvan at about ten thirty in the evening. The night sky is totally black and for what seemed like hours we couldn’t find our final destination, a holiday bungalow along a country lane four miles north of

Dungarvan, part of a group of cottages called “ COOLE FARM Holiday homes “ Eventually, after knocking on somebody’s door to ask for directions, we found “Ivy Cottage”, our new, if temporary home. I quickly unpacked the necessary things, tea, food, our bedding, and our two cats, Percy and Coco. I feel really great, I think Kathy does too; we’ve arrived at the beginning of a whole new life in Ireland.We can relax now and look forward to whatever tomorrow brings. Terry Lomax THE SHED DEVELOPMENT AND ORGANISATION The development of the Shed and how we organise ourselves is a process modelled on Partnership when numbers of us realise that we are all in this together. If we want to do the work we all have to partner and collaborate and lead together. This is the Group dynamic and exactly how we are working as a group in the Shed to manage our organisation. Our Shed is a True Community which is a safe place where people can experiment with new types of behaviour where people are in a state of being together as peaceful human beings. This true community will assist us to enhance and develop both our technical and personal skills which can then be used to reach our full potential in a just and caring environment. We hope more men will decide to join the Shed where we will all support the process of changing how we do things for the future, grow and blossom into new forms. This will be done by organising things differently on an individual basis by asking, talking; and influencing by explaining the new way of doing things for the future in the community. OPENING HOURS The Shed is opened from 10.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. Monday-Friday. Contact number is 087-1856067. POEM BY GER DALTON Wave goodbye to the old year and welcome the new. Happiness and good health is my wish for you. "Happy New Year"

Terry Lomax third from right at our Christmas coffee morning hosted by Terra Nua at the Interlude.

Pictured at Kilmurrin Cove taking part in the annual Michael Power Memorial Christmas Day Swim 2016 the proceeds of which will go to Nadine's Cancer Battle fund were Alex, Megan, Emily, Lauren and Ellie Grace Flynn. [John Power]

Pictured at Kilmurrin Cove taking part in the annual Michael Power Memorial Christmas Day Swim 2016 the proceeds of which will go to Nadine's Cancer Battle fund were James Organ, Mary Wall, Aoife Mooney and Seamus O'Reilly, Bonmahon Life Boat. [John Power]

Pictured at Kilmurrin Cove taking part in the annual Michael Power Memorial Christmas Day Swim 2016 the proceeds of which will go to Nadine's Cancer Battle fund were Brian Keane, Liam Farrell, Orla Peach De Paor and [John Power] Lyndsey Farrell.

PHIL’S 5K REMEMBRANCE ROAD RUN

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

Adam, Christy and Michael McCarthy, with Chelsea Desmond and Brian McCarthy, Youghal Pipe Band, at Phil's 5k Remembrance Road Run in Youghal where over five hundred runners and walkers supported eight year old Izzy O'Connell who is suffering from a brain tumour. [John Hennessy]

Padjoe "Santa" Terry, Seán Óg Ó hAilpín, former Cork senior hurler, and Jimmy Healy with Izzy O'Connell at Phil's 5k Remembrance Road Run in Youghal where over five hundred runners and walkers supported eight year old Izzy who is suffering from a brain tumour. Youghal based community group, Phil’s Road Run, was set up by local families, the Terrys and the Healys, to raise funds for cancer care in remembrance of Phil Terry, who lost her battle with the disease on December 21st, 2012. This year they decided to rally to the cause of eight-year-old Izzy who is currently fighting her own battle with a form of this disease. [John Hennessy]

Noel Cronin and Jordan McCarthy, Youghal Community Radio, broadcasting live during Phil's 5k Remembrance Road Run in Youghal. [John Hennessy]

Kate and Breda Gardiner, Youghal, with Sandra McCarthy, Gortroe, at Phil's 5k Remembrance Road Run in Youghal. [John Hennessy]

Alison and Alex Lawlor, Youghal, at Phil's 5k Remembrance Road Run in Youghal where over five hundred runners and walkers supported eight year old Izzy O'Connell who is suffering from a brain tumour. [John Hennessy] Kelly Faul, Kathleen Denn, Maria Hooley and Eden Wilson, all members of Youghal Ladies Rugby Club, at Phil's 5k Remembrance Road Run in Youghal where over five hundred runners and walkers supported eight year old Izzy O'Connell who is suffering from a brain tumour. [John Hennessy]

Aaron Daly and Robert Griffin, both from Youghal, at Phil's 5k Remembrance Road Run in Youghal where over five hundred runners and walkers supported eight year old Izzy O'Connell who is suffering from a brain tumour. [John Hennessy]

Conor Roche, Rory Fitzgerald, Josh Persaud, Conor Savage and Devon O'Donoghue, all representing Youghal GAA Club, at Phil's 5k Remembrance Road Run in Youghal where over five hundred runners and walkers supported eight year old Izzy O'Connell who is suffering from a brain tumour. [John Hennessy]

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

COUNTY NEWS

West Waterford HAPPY NEW YEAR Wishing all our readers and all who help compile and contribute items for these notes, a very happy new year. CLASHMORE & PILTOWN PARISH NEWS Weekend Mass Times – Piltown Church – Saturday Vigil Mass at 6.00 p.m. Clashmore Church – Sunday morning Mass at 9.00. a.m. KINSALEBEG COMMUNITY GROUP "Thursday Club” – Just a gentle reminder to all our members that our very popular weekly meetings of the “Thursday Club” are back in Kinsalebeg hall tomorrow Thursday, 5th January at 2.00 p.m., new members are always welcome. Sympathy – Kinsalebeg Community Group send their condolences to all the Foley and Hallahan families, on the death of Damien Foley. May he Rest in Peace. CLASHMORE AND KINSALEBEG COMMUNITY COUNCIL Operation Transformation It's that time of year again and the TV programme starts on Wednesday, 4th January. Our local Campaign for men and women starts on Monday, 9th January, at 7.00 p.m. in the Clashmore GAA hall with registration and weigh-in. Alternatively you can register and weigh-in at Piltown Hall on Wednesday, 11th January, at 7.00 p.m.The cost is €15 if you pay up front for all the sessions or you can pay as you go at €3 per session. To get people moving there will be walks arranged: Every Monday from the GAA Club at 7.30 p.m. Every Wednesday from Piltown Hall at 7.30 p.m. Every Thursday from the GAA Club at 11.00 a.m. and on Sunday, 15th January, and Sunday, 29th January, there will be a family walk from the GAA club at 11.00 a.m. Everybody is welcome on the walks whether they are taking

part in Operation Transformation or not. YOGA FOR EXERCISE – MONDAYS The cost of above includes a Yoga for Exercise session by Patrick Dillane which will take place every Monday at 8.00 p.m. in the GAA Hall. This will be a simple pleasant way to manage your bodies natural health. HEALTHY EATING Then on Thursday, 12th January, at 7.30 p.m. at the Clashmore Heritage Centre, there will be a talk by Nicola Lucey of the Youghal Community Health Project who will give advice on healthy eating and portion control. STRESS MANAGEMENT The following Thursday, 19th January, at 8.00 p.m. in the Clashmore Heritage Centre, Patrick Dillane will outline simple techniques to manage your stress by learning how to manage your thoughts. AND FINALLY To get a bit of competition going, we have issued a challenge to the Ardmore Pattern Committee who are running Operation Transformation in Ardmore. Whichever community loses the most weight per person will win the West Waterford Challenge Cup. So we are counting on people to get involved. BLACKWATER GARDEN CENTRE & CAFÉ RE-OPENS 1st FEBRUARY The McKenna family and staff, provide a wonderful welcome and excellent service at their very popular Garden Centre and Goodfood Café here in the tranquil rural community of Kinsalebeg. This year [2017] the Blackwater Garden Centre will celebrate 35 years in business so before the celebrations begin they plan to take a well deserved break for the month of January, following their very busy Christmas season. Ithel, Mike and Anne would like to say thank you to everyone who came and visited their little business in 2016 and wish you all health and happiness in 2017.

Kathleen Healy, Youghal, at the remembrance tree during Phil's 5k Remembrance Road Run in Youghal where over five hundred runners and walkers supported eight year old Izzy O'Connell who is suffering from a brain tumour. [John Hennessy]

A large crowd turned out for the annual St. Stephen’s Day meet of the West Waterford Hounds at Clashmore. Hope to see you all back again when they reopen on February 1st. CLASHMORE / KINSALEBEG GAA LOTTO The weekly Clashmore / Kinsalebeg GAA Lotto draw took place on Monday night last, January 2nd, our numbers this week were 1, 4, 24, 30 we had no match four winner so our jackpot next week will be €8,900. Our next draw takes place on Monday night at the Rising Sun, Clashmore. Congratulations to the following who were lucky winners of €20 spot prizes this week: Olly Flanagan, Noel O’Brien, Jimmy Ormond, Angela O’Neill, Ardsallagh; Terry Ledingham, Tinnock.Thank you to everyone for your support a very happy New year to you all. CLASHMORE 45 DRIVE Our first 45 Drive of 2017 took place at the Decies Bar Clashmore on Monday night last, January 2nd. In first place on eight games each were Pat Roche and Gabriel Hynes. In second place on seven games we had Pat O’Halloran and Noel Nugent Jack Douris and Jim McGrath Best of the last five were Mary O’Donovan and Hannah Lucas Tom Osborne and

John Motherway. Our lucky last game winners were Mike Hunt and Martin Lynch, Mary Ann and Bobby Connery. A very happy New Year you all and thanks to everyone for your support in 2016. CLASHMORE RAMBLERS Weekly Alpha Lotto Results The first weekly Clashmore Ramblers Alpha Lotto draw for 2017 took place in Clashmore on Sunday night last and the following were the letters drawn S. N. T. U., we had no jackpot winner so next weeks Jackpot will be €2,050. Congratulations to the following who were the lucky winners of our weekly €20 spot prizes – Helen O’Rourke, Eileen Dower, Ronan Fitzgerald. Our next draw takes place on Sunday night in Clashmore thanks to all our weekly supporters. CLASHMORE / KINSALEBEG SENIOR CITIZEN NEW YEAR PARTY Our get together this year will take place on Sunday, 15th January, in Kinsalebeg Hall, please be in around 12.30 p.m., as lunch will be served at 1 o'clock. There is no charge, after lunch relax to the music of Martin Walsh. If possible give Joan a ring on 024/94594, to book your place,

as we want to ensure enough food is ordered by 12th January at the latest. We had a lovely day last year, it would be nice if we could repeat that again this year. Do come along and have a chat with friends and neighbours. TWO TIME POLKA COMING TO CLASHMORE A date for your 2017 diary on the 27th January “Two Time Polka” are coming back after their hugely successful gig in June. Tickets will go on sale in early January costing just €15 or €12 concession. Watch these notes for more details. DEATH OF DAMIAN FOLEY With deep sadness we record the death of Damian Foley, dearly love son of Mike and Majella Foley, Springfield Lower, Kinsalebeg, and much loved brother of Molly, Darren and Jack. Damian will be so sadly missed by his loving family and his grandparents Eamonn and Catherine Foley, Beitie and Patsy Hallahan, all his aunts, uncles and cousins, relatives, neighbours and friends. To all of you we extend our deepest and heartfelt sympathy. Reposing at his home, Damian’s removal took place to St. Bartholomew's Church,

Piltown, on Wednesday morning for the celebration of Requiem Mass, following Mass Damian was laid to rest in the adjoining cemetery. Sleep in heavenly peace Damian. BIRTHDAY GREETINGS A very happy 18th birthday to Patrick Prendergast, D’Loughtane, who celebrated his birthday just before Christmas Best wishes to you Patrick from all your family and friends. HAPPY BIRTHDAY PAT A very happy 50th birthday to Pat Curran, Clashmore, who celebrated his birthday over the holiday season best wishes to you Pat from all your friends. NEW ARRIVAL Congratulations to Melian Griffith Lan and her husband Wei on the birth of their beautiful baby son whom they have named Henry. Best wishes to you both from all your friends. WINNER AT BOULTA What a wonderful start 2017 for Richie and Patricia Fitzgerald and family with their horse Hilly Lady trained by Paul Kiely winning the 6 year old mares maiden at Boulta point to points on New Year’s day. Congratulations to all and best of luck “Hilly Lady” in the mares' winners race.

PICTORIAL

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

Sunrise from Walton Park.

[Pat Kenealy]

Sunrise over Dungarvan.

[Pat Kenealy]

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

NEW YEAR’S DAY HELVICK SWIM

Group of swimmers who took part in the Helvick New Year’s Day Swim 2017 in Aid of Scoil Naisiunta na Rinne.

[Michael Kiely]

Group of swimmers in the water at the Helvick New Year’s Day Swim 2017 in Aid of Scoil Naisiunta na Rinne.

[Michael Kiely]

Group of swimmers head for the water at the Helvick New Year’s Day Swim 2017 in Aid of Scoil Naisiunta na Rinne.

[Michael Kiely]

The Devereux family pictured at the Helvick New Year’s Day Swim 2017 in Aid of Scoil Naisiunta na Rinne.

[Michael Kiely]

Lauryn Crotty and Kate Byrne pictured at the Helvick New Year’s Day Swim 2017 in Aid of Scoil Naisiunta na Rinne. [Michael Kiely]

Paudie and Eamonn Crotty pictured in the water at the Helvick New Year’s Day Swim 2017 in Aid of Scoil Naisiunta na Rinne. [Michael Kiely]

Doireann De Faoite, Neasa and Muireann Ni Mhurchadha pictured in the water at the Helvick New Year’s Day Swim 2017 in Aid of Scoil Naisiunta na Rinne. [Michael Kiely]

DUNGARVAN LIONS CLUB SWIM

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

Dungarvan Lions Club Christmas Day Swim at Clonea Beach

Photographs by Sean Byrne//Deise Media]

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

SCHOOLS

Carriglea National School

Behaviour Award recipients from Carriglea NS for showing caring behaviour towards others.

Whoops a Daisy cast from Carriglea NS after their fantastic performance for their moms and dads.

Carriglea National School celebrate Santa Hat Day in aid of Dungarvan Lions Club.

Carriglea NS Green Schools Committee with their handmade crib.

SCHOOLS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

ÁRD SCOIL NA nDÉISE

Transition Year Craft Fair ON Wednesday, 14th December, Transition Year’s organised and ran a craft fair where they presented the products that they produced in their mini-companies. Products ranged from halfzips and candyfloss to hand crafted cards and home-made beauty products.This year’s companies were all unique and worked hard to sell as much of their product as possible. The craft fair was on from 11.00 a.m. - 1.00 p.m. and all classes from the school were invited to attend and start their Christmas shopping.The craft fair was a learning experience as it is an insight into the real world of business and

each group learned from either making a profit or a loss on their product. Thank you to the Transition Year Enterprise teachers Ms. Gleeson, Ms. Foley, and Ms. Joyce for all their help in organising the event. Thank you also to Mr. Collins for his support as Transition Year coordinator. LOWRI CLANCY DAVIES SHARES HER EXPERIENCE OF DOING HER WORK EXPERIENCE WORKING ON A FILM SET WITH A FILM CREW IN WALES In November, I was lucky enough to be involved with a film crew in Cardiff,Wales, where

my dad was working as an actor in a film production. I was particularly excited about the week as I had grown up in Wales until I moved to Ireland at age 11 and as a young child, had appeared on S4C, the Welsh language channel on a few occasions. It was also a great opportunity to practise my Welsh! It was an early start for me every day, 6 o’clock. On arrival, the set, a farmhouse, looked magical, like the cover of a Christmas card, complete with fake snow. Ah the wonder of film! I soon learned that timing and light are all important on a film set. The director explained to me that there were many different shots

that they had to film; wide shots, which showed a lot of the room, narrow shots; focused on a certain spot/person. Props had to be set up by the art department.The “runner” signalled when the film is running. ‘Turning over’ means that the filming has started but the director has not said action yet. ‘Turning’ means that the shot is being filmed and ‘cut there’ means that the crew is no longer filming. Between scenes I would go through lines with my dad and other actors. I helped the art department with setting up lights and props. It was fascinating meeting people from different backgrounds. At the end of the

Some of our First Year students with their Biscuit Cake Christmas Puddings.

Members of the Dungarvan Lions Club receiving a cheque for €660 from Ard Scoil na nDeise following our Christmas Jumper Day.

Lowri Clancy Davies on work experience on a film set in Wales. day at around 7.30 p.m. the director shouted ‘that’s a wrap’ and we could all go home. I was exhausted and that was only the first day. Overall I had an amazing experience, it also taught me that being an actor isn’t all about glamour, but long hours and hard work. I’m very grateful to receive the opportunity and hope to work on film sets in the future. CHRISTMAS PUDDINGS WITH A TWIST! Home Economics classes have been very busy in recent weeks preparing tasty treats for their families at Christmas. Ms. Woods gave the girls a delicious recipe for Chocolate Biscuit Cake which they cleverly moulded into the shape of a Christmas Pudding. Then they allowed them to set and iced them to make them look even more festive. The end products looked amazing and we are sure that the girls will thoroughly enjoy their tasty treats over Christmas. Well done to all involved. TRANSITION YEARS SINGING CHRISTMAS CAROLS AT ST. JOSEPH’S HOSPITAL On Wednesday, 21st

December, the TY paid a second visit to St. Joseph's Hospital. All of us headed down for our last two classes to go singing to the elderly, where we got a very warm welcome from all the staff and patients there. We sang everything from Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer to Fairytale of New York and even sang our personal favourite, This Christmas by Picture This. It was a very sweet moment for us all to see that the patients were enjoying themselves and even joining in to sing with us! We sang in all the different wards out in St. Joseph’s! It really opened our eyes up to being grateful for who we have with us for Christmas as we learned some people didn't have any family or friends to visit them. We were very grateful to Mr. Collins our TY Co-ordinator and also the staff in St. Joseph’s for giving us the opportunity to visit and sing to the patients! We also would like to thank the patients for giving us praise and help in singing and also our guitarists Jeanne Harrington and Anna Whelan!

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

SCHOOLS

Árd Scoil na nDéise Transition Year Craft Fair – Sarah Gough, India McGovern and Katherine McSweeney with their home made beauty products.

Árd Scoil na nDéise Transition Year Craft Fair – Aoife Claffey and Janey Maher, makers of KUSH beauty products.

Árd Scoil na nDéise Transition Year Craft Fair – Lydia Nugent, Jeanne Harrington, Megan Mulcahy and Orla Renton who made custom designed t-shirts.

Árd Scoil na nDéise Transition Year Craft Fair – Amy Power and Niamh Hayes with their hand made chokers.

Árd Scoil na nDéise Transition Year Craft Fair – Aimee Flynn and Nevaeh Tutty with their home made biscuits with beautiful henna designs.

Árd Scoil na nDéise Transition Year Craft Fair – Alanna O'Connor and Laura Harty with their Glowin Bunnies.

Meanscoil San Nioclas – Daltaí na hIdirbhliana ag Rinc Scátála Winterville i bPort Láirge.

Meanscoil San Nioclas – Daltaí na hIdirbhliana ag an mbád Lochlannach lasmuigh de Thúr Raghnaill, Port Láirge.

SCHOOLS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

SCHOOLS

ST. MARYâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PRIMARY SCHOOL, DUNGARVAN

Happy New Year WE would like to wish all our pupils, parents, staff and friends a Peaceful New Year. Thank you all for your continued support for our School. MRS. CLAUS' KITCHEN Mrs. Claus came to visit us in St. Mary's as she needs help baking more cookies for the very busy elves. She set up in our lunch room and boy did she make a great job of decorating. When we entered through the tinsel covered door we were met with light up trees, Santy's and reindeers, next we walked through the Christmas tunnel that was all aglow. As we rounded the corner into a dark kitchen we saw Mrs. Claus asleep on her rocking chair. When Elfie the elf woke her up she explained why she was here and we all agreed to help her. We were all rolling out dough and cutting cookies out in Christmas shapes.While the cookies were baking Mrs. Claus showed us some of her brilliant magic tricks that she uses all the time in the North Pole. When we were leaving with bellies full of cookies we got a lovely candy cane to bring home. It was the best day ever. OUR CHRISTMAS RAFFLE A big thank you to all who supported our Christmas raffle we had some fabulous prizes up for grabs. The lucky winners were: Christmas cake - Amelia Donnelly Christmas Hamper - Angela Nugent Christmas Hamper - Cameron Connors Board Gamesv- Sarah Power, Caoimhe Keegan, Lily McGrath GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP - CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD As part of our next green flag Global Citizenship litter and waste our Junior Infants decided to focus on Christmas in Poland, Ireland, England, Lithuania and The Czech Republic. Our very helpful parents sent in lots of information about their Christmas traditions. We compared all the traditions, tasted some traditional baking, learned lots of new facts and make lovely new baubles for our Christmas tree with the flags of all our nationalities.The children loved learning all about Christmas in other countries. A CHRISTMAS TREAT - TRIP TO THE CINEMA Last Wednesday we all went on our Christmas treat to Dungarvan cinema. This is our annual Christmas treat for working so hard all term.We watched the newly released film Moana and it was brilliant. SANTA CLAUS VISIT On our last day in school before of Christmas Holidays Santa came in the fire engine to see us. He came with some firemen and 3 elves. We're not sure if the sirens or the excited screams were louder. Santa got out of the Fire engine and went around the yard to shake all our hands and say Merry Christmas. He then came to each classroom to double check his list and ask the boys and girls if they had all written their lists. A big thank you to Santa for taking time our of his busy schedule to drop in to us.

The girls from 5th class on behalf of St. Mary's Primary School giving a cheque of â&#x201A;Ź300 to the Lyons Club Appeal.

5th Class having hot chocolate and cookies...tis the season!!

Mrs. Claus taking a rest after all her baking.

Junior Infants learning all about Christmas in the countires of their friends from Poland, England, Ireland, Czech republic and Lithuania.

SCHOOLS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

Dungarvan CBS – Getting into the Christmas Spirit – First Year Art Students who were busy creating Christmas themed pieces in the Art room pictured with Principal Mr. Sheehan.

Dungarvan CBS raise funds for Dungarvan Lions Club The students of Dungarvan CBS recently held a Charity Crossbar Challenge and a Playstation FIFA Tournament to raise funds for the Dungarvan Branch of the Lions club. The competition involved all the students of the school contributing €1 as means to the enter a competition. The event raised over 250 euro for the Lions Club that is going towards helping those in need over the Christmas Period. The money was presented to the Lions Club by a group of our First Year Students. Following the presentation our students received a talk from Ray McAndrew (President Dungarvan Branch of the Lions Club) about the work they do in the local community and how the money would be used in the coming weeks. The Lions Club were delighted by the contribution made by the students of Dungarvan CBS.

Mr. Shane McGrath, Ronan Power, John Harnedy, Alex Tutty, Ray McAndrew (President Dungarvan Lions Club), Mark Blackwell, Mr. Paul Sheehan, Mikey Sheehan.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

SCHOOLS

53 DUNGARVAN C.B.S.

Transition Year Photography

David Roche

EACH transition year class has a double of photography for half the year. I have included a sample of the work from TY 2. As you can see from the photographs, all of which were taken on smartphones, that expensive equipment is not needed to take a good photograph. Looking for something unique or unusual and framing it in an interesting way are the key ideas that the students have embraced from their study of photography. It’s also great to see such a wide variety of styles, from close up to landscape, from portrait to still life. CHRISTMAS RAFFLE The Parents’ Advisory Council organised their annual Christmas Raffle recently. As their main fundraising event every year the raffle provides a great means to raise funds for the school. Raffle prizes were very kindly sponsored by the following local businesses: The Park Hotel, Dungarvan Onion Sacks, Flavin Construction Ltd., Flahavans, Topline Currans, Boots Chemist, Sean Byrne Photography, Ger Wyley Ltd., Michael Roche

Carpets Ltd., Mike Fennell Tarmacadam, Tomás Walsh & Sons Building Contractors, Kiely Technical Services. We thank them for their very kind support. The draw took place on Tuesday, December 20th, and the following are the prize winners :– 1st €250 Cash: Mr. Kelly; 2nd Luxury Hamper: Dave Godfrey; 3rd Park Hotel voucher: Minnie Fennell; 4th Rug: Cormac Mahony; 5th Perfume: Bridget Morrissey; 6th Framed Photo: Anthony Fahey; 7th Tom Curran’s voucher: Roman Sheehan; 8th Tom Curran’s voucher: Maureen Dalton; 9th Flahavans hamper: Dermot

Cunningham Quinlan; 10th Hamper: Sharon Kiely; 11th Ger Wyley’s voucher: Nora Foley. Congratulations to all. Finally, a special thank you to the Parents’ Advisory Council for organising the Christmas Raffle. Their endless work and commitment to the school is greatly appreciated. CBS CAROL SINGERS In the build up to Christmas Ms. Coffey and her CBS music group went busking in the AIB Bank, Dungarvan. Their hour long performance raised almost €200 for the very worthy charity Barnardos.

Michael Hart

Cian O’Riordan

Sam Warren

Joe Duggan

Chairperson of the Parents’ Advisory Council, Sharon Kiely, presenting first prize to Mr. Anthony Kelly. (L. to r.): Catherine McGowan and Sharon Kiely, Parents’ Advisory Council; Mr. Paul Sheehan, Principal; Mr. Anthony Kelly and Carole Ronayne, Parents’ Advisory Council.

Ms. Grace Gleeson accepting 2nd prize hamper on behalf of Dave Godfrey from the Chairperson of the Parents’ Advisory Council, Sharon Kiely. (L. to r.): Catherine McGowan, Parents’ Advisory Council; Ms. Gleeson, Mr. Sheehan, Principal; Sharon Kiely and Carole Ronayne from the Parents’ Advisory Council.

Lewis Walsh

Lukas Romen

Performing for Charity – Ms. Dervla Coffey, Eoghan Burke, Sam Warren, Bradley Keane and Shane Burke.

OBITUARY DERMOT CANNING Waterpark, Fermoy

KATHLEEN SICE (nee Cashman) Woodview Park, Tallow

It is with sadness and regret we record the passing of Dermot Canning, Waterpark, Fermoy, Co. Cork, loving husband of the late Breda (nee Hale), which sad event occurred unexpectedly at his home on 21st December, 2016. Lying in repose at Walsh’s Funeral Home, Tallow, on Thursday evening, Rosary was recited by Fr. M. Melican, I.C., in the presence of his loving family. On Friday evening Rev. Fr. M. Cullinan, P.P., recited funeral prayers in the presence of his loving family, relatives, neighbours and friends. On Saturday morning Rev. Fr. M. Cullinan, P.P., recited funeral prayers in the presence of his family before removal took place to St. Mary’s Church, Ballysaggart. On arrival his remains were received and blessed by Rev. Fr. M. Cullinan, P.P. Funeral Mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr. M. Cullinan, P.P. Prayers of the Faithful were recited by nieces Caroline Kenneally and Olivia Christian. The Offertory Gifts were presented to the Altar by sisterin-law Marie and niece Veronica Farrow. Dina Walshe provided a lovely selection of music and hymns throughout the Funeral Mass. Following Funeral Mass burial took place in the adjoining cemetery. Rev. Fr. M. Cullinan, P.P., officiated the graveside prayers where Dermot was laid to rest in the presence of his loving family, relatives and friends. May he rest in peace. May we extend our deepest sympathy to his loving son Anthony; brother Harry; sisters Joan Kenneally and Mary Walsh; daughter-inlaw Brandi; sister-in-law Marie; brother-in-law Chris Kenneally; aunt, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends.

With sadness and regret we record the passing of Kathleen Sice (nee Cashman), Woodview Park, Tallow, Co. Waterford, which sad event occurred peacefully in the tender and loving care of the Nursing staff at Conna Nursing Home on 19th December, 2016. Lying in repose at Aidan Walsh & Sons, Funeral Home, Tallow, on Tuesday evening, Rosary was recited by Fr. M. Melican, I.C., in the presence of her loving family, relatives and friends. On Wednesday evening funeral prayers were recited by Fr. M. Melican, I.C., in the presence of her loving family, relatives, neighbours and friends. Followed by removal to her home in Woodview Park, Tallow. On Thursday morning removal took place from her home to the Immaculate Conception Church,Tallow. On arrival her remains were received and blessed by Rev. Fr. G. McNamara, P.P. Funeral Mass was celebrated on by Rev Fr. G. McNamara, P.P. Symbols representing Kathleen’s life were presented to the Altar by her great-grandson Lee and grandson Calum (Waterford and Tallow jerseys), grandchildren Shauna (picture of her dog Bobby), Nadine (Rosary Beads), Kieran (Dungarvan Leader). These were narrated by grand-daughter Nicole. Readings were recited by daughter Theresa and grandson David. Prayers of the Faithful were recited by grandchildren Cornelia, Shane, Anthony and Georgina. Soloist Sarah Barry and organist Marjorie Moran provided a lovely selection of music and hymns during the Mass. The Offertory Gifts were presented to the Altar by daughter Susan and son Colin. Following Communion grand-daughter Laura delivered a moving and fitting eulogy. Following Funeral Mass burial took place in the adjoining cemetery. Rev. Fr. G. McNamara, P.P., officiated the graveside prayers where Kathleen was laid to rest in the presence of her loving family, relatives, friends. We extend our deepest sympathy to her loving sons John, Colin, Malcolm and Gerald; daughters Theresa Curley and Susan Garvey; daughters-in-law Mary, Julie and Bernadette; sons-in-law Connie Curley and Tony Garvey; grandchildren, great-grandchildren, relatives, neighbours and friends. May she rest in peace.

(Funeral arrangements by Aidan Walsh & Sons, Funeral Directors, Cappoquin & Tallow).

JOHN DAVID PHELAN Formerly of Friars Walk, Abbeyside, and The Quay, Dungarvan We write with sadness on the passing on Tuesday, 3rd January, of John David Phelan at Ballincurrig Care Centre, Midleton, son of the late Walter and Margaret Phelan. He was very well known in the commercial life of the town having run the most successful Phelan’s grain and coal stores at Davitt’s Quay, Dungarvan. We offer our deepest sympathy to Kathleen; family Margaret, Julianna, John; grandchildren Jeffrey, Dylan, Kate, Aimee and Grace; his daughter-in-law Sylvia; sister Maureen Connors; brother James Phelan (Sacristan at St. Mary’s for many years); extended family, other relatives and friends. Reposing at the Kiely Funeral Home, Dungarvan, this Wednesday, January 4th, from 5.00 p.m. with Rosary at 7.00 p.m. Removal on Thursday, January 5th, at 10.00 a.m. to St. Mary’s Parish Church, Dungarvan, for Funeral Mass at 11.00 a.m. Interment afterwards in the adjoining cemetery. Family flowers only please, donations if desired to West Waterford Hospice. May John David rest in peace. (Funeral arrangements by James Kiely & Sons, Funeral Directors, Dungarvan).

St. Mary’s Parish Church, Dungarvan

Participants in the Dungarvan Lions Club Christmas Day Swim 2016 at [Sean Byrne//Deise Media] Clonea Beach.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

THE Baptism of the Lord: Isaiah 42:1-4,6-7 - Here is my servant in whom my soul delights. Acts 10:34-38 - The Lord has anointed him with the Holy Spirit. Matthew 3:13-17 As soon as Jesus was baptised he saw the Spirit of God coming down on him. Prayer for the New Year God bless our year, giving us time for the task, peace for the pathway, wisdom for the work, friends for the fireside, love to the last. (The Book of a 1000 Prayers) Weekday Masses: Daily Mass continues at 11.00 a.m. until Monday next, January 8th when daily Mass resumes at 9.30 a.m. Feast of the Epiphany: Friday next, January 6th is the Feast of the Epiphany. It is a Holyday of Obligation. Masses begin with the 7.30 p.m. Vigil Mass on Thursday and continue with Mass at 11.00 a.m. on Friday, the 8th. No Evening Mass on Friday. 2017: Centenary of Fatima: This year we will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the appear-

ance of Our Lady at Fatima, Portugal to the 3 children – 10 year old Lucia dos Santos, and her cousins, Francisco (9) and Jacinta (7).The lady wore a white mantle edged with gold and held a rosary in her hand. She asked them to devote themselves to the Holy Trinity and to pray the rosary every day, to bring peace to the world and an end to the war. Two Lives, One Love: Copies of the Irish Catholic Bishops’ Submission to the Citizens’ Assembly are available in the church porches. Parish Office: Located in St. Mary’s Church and is open Monday to Friday office hours. If you want to book Masses or Baptisms call during these times. Phone 42374. Daily Mass broadcast on 98.5 FM. Phone No: Fr. Ryan 42374, Fr. Harris 42384, Fr. Cooney 41136. Emergency Phone No: To contact Priest on duty: 0862334282.

(Funeral arrangements by Aidan Walsh and Sons, Funeral Directors, Cappoquin and Tallow).

JOSIE (Hanora) ROBY (nee Hale) St. Carthage’s Rest Home, Lismore, and formerly of Devonshire Cottages, Lismore, Co. Waterford With sincere sorrow and deep regret we record the passing of Josie (Hanora) Roby (nee Hale), St. Carthage’s Rest Home, Lismore, and formerly of Devonshire Cottage’s, Lismore, Co.Waterford, loving wife of the late Phillip, which sad event occurred peacefully on 26th December, 2016, in the tender and loving care of Matron and staff at St. Carthage’s Rest Home, Lismore. Reposing at St. Carthage’s Rest Home on Tuesday morning where her relatives, residents and Nursing staff shared fond memories of Josie. Lying in repose at Walsh’s Funeral Home, Cappoquin, on Wednesday evening Rev. Fr. M. Cullinan, P.P., recited funeral prayers in the presence of her loving family, relatives and friends, before removal took place to St. Carthage’s Church, Lismore. On arrival her remains were received and blessed by Rev. Fr. M. Cullinan, P.P. Funeral Mass was celebrated on Friday morning by Rev. Fr. M. Cullinan, P.P. Organist Donal Kennefick provided a lovely selection of music during the Mass. Following Funeral Mass burial took place in St. Carthage’s Cemetery, Lismore. Rev. Fr. M. Cullinan, P.P., officiated the graveside prayers where Josie was laid to rest in the presence of her loving family, relatives and friends. May she rest in peace. May we extend our deepest sympathy to her loving nephews Michael and Jim Hale; niece Mary O’Brien; grandnephews, grandnieces, relatives, neighbours, friends. (Funeral arrangements by Aidan Walsh & Sons, Funeral Directors, Cappoquin & Tallow).

TOMMY WHELAN Townspark, Lismore It’s with sincere sadness that we record the passing of Tommy Whelan, Townspark, Lismore, which sad event occurred on Monday, 26th December, 2016 (peacefully), at his residence. Reposing at St. Carthage’s Mortuary, Lismore, Rosary was recited on Monday and Tuesday evenings. Removal took place on Wednesday evening to St. Carthage’s Church, Lismore. Funeral Mass was celebrated on Thursday morning after which Tommy was laid to rest in St. Carthage’s Cemetery, Lismore. Full obituary to follow. To his loving brother Harry; sisters Babs,Teresa, Dolly, Esther, Agnes and Annie; brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives and his many friends, we extend our sincere sympathy. (Funeral arrangements were by Ryan’s Funeral Directors, Lismore).

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

DECLAN (Deckie) COLEMAN 5 Murphy Place, Abbeyside With sadness and deep regret we record the passing of Declan (Deckie) Coleman which sad event occurred on St. Stephen’s Day. Removal was from Drohan’s Funeral Home on Friday morning to St. Augustine’s, Abbeyside, for Funeral Mass on arrival. Burial took place afterwards in the adjoining cemetery. To his wife Margaret; sons John, Declan, Kevin and Michael; daughters Nan-Jo and Biddy; brother Jimmy; relatives and friends, we extend our deepest sympathy. Full obituary next issue. (Funeral arrangements were by Tom Drohan, Funeral Directors, Dungarvan).

JAMES DRUMMY 38 Tournore Court, Abbeyside, formerly 38 Congress Villas, Dungarvan It is with deep regret we record the passing of James Drummy which sad event occurred on Tuesday, 20th December, 2016. Removal was from Drohan’s Funeral Home on Thursday evening to St. Mary’s Parish Church. Funeral Mass was celebrated on Friday morning and burial took place afterwards in Kilgobinet Cemetery. To his daughter Margaret; son Michael; son-in-law John; daughterin-law Cora; grandchildren, relatives and friends, we extend our deepest sympathy. Full obituary next issue. (Funeral arrangements were by Tom Drohan, Funeral Directors, Dungarvan).

MAIRÉAD D’ARCY Ballyvooney, Stradbally It is with deep regret we record the untimely passing of Mairéad D’Arcy following a tragic accident. Removal was from her residence on Friday morning to the Holy Cross Church, Stradbally, for Funeral Mass on arrival. Burial took place afterwards in the adjoining cemetery. To her heartbroken parents Ray and Anne; brothers John and Ray; sister Triona; brother-in-law Ambrose; relatives and friends, we extend our deepest sympathy. Full obituary next issue. (Funeral arrangements were by Tom Drohan, Funeral Directors, Dungarvan).

PATRICK GALVIN Curraheen, Stradbally With deep regret we record the passing of Patrick Galvin which sad event occurred on 26th December, 2016. Removal was from his residence on Wednesday, 28th December, 2016, to the Holy Cross Church, Stradbally. Following Funeral Mass on arrival, burial took place in the adjoining cemetery. To his wife Breda and family we extend our deepest sympathy. Full obituary next issue. (Funeral arrangements were by Tom Drohan, Funeral Directors, Dungarvan).

BILLY MORRISSEY Kilminion, Stradbally It is with profound sorrow we record the passing of Billy Morrissey which sad event occurred on St. Stephen’s Day. Removal was from Drohan’s Funeral Home on Thursday afternoon to the Holy Cross Church, Stradbally, for Funeral Mass on arrival. Burial took place afterwards in the adjoining cemetery. To his brothers and sisters we extend our deepest sympathy. Full obituary next issue. (Funeral arrangements were by Tom Drohan, Funeral Directors, Dungarvan).

TERESA (Tessie) POWER (nee Sheehan) Glenanane, Ballinamult With sadness and regret we record the passing of Teresa (Tessie) Power which sad event occurred on 27th December, 2016. Removal was from Drohan’s Funeral Home on Thursday morning to St. Mary’s Church, Touraneena, for Funeral Mass on arrival, afterwards burial took place in the adjoining cemetery. To her husband Jim; sons Michael, Thomas and Patrick; grandchildren Niamh, Gavin and Aiden; brothers Ned, Mick and Jack; relatives and friends, we extend our deepest sympathy. Full obituary next issue. (Funeral arrangements were by Tom Drohan, Funeral Directors, Dungarvan).

OBITUARY KITTY HICKEY (nee Harris) Ballinakill, Ballinamult It is with sadness and regret that we record the passing of Kitty Hickey (nee Harris), Ballinakill, Ballinamult, Co. Waterford, loving mother of the late Paul and sister of the late Michael, which sad event occurred peacefully on 3rd December, 2016, in the tender loving care of the Nursing staff at CareChoice Nursing Home, Dungarvan. Kitty was born in 1949 in Currabaha, Kilmacthomas, daughter of the late Hannah and Johnnie Harris. She was one of six in family and was especially close to her twin sister Helen. Kitty went to school in the Mercy Convent, Kilmacthomas, and on finishing school went to work in Hill’s Bakery, Kilmacthomas; after some time Kitty went on to work in Ardkeen Hospital and really enjoyed her time there and made lifelong friends. In 1970 Kitty got married and had six children, Paul, Pat, Alan,Tony, John and Siobhan. Kitty ensured that it was a home where her children knew their mother’s constant love. None of us fully knows or understands what Kitty experienced in her marriage, but we do know that Kitty did her best always to ensure that her family had the best upbringing she could give them. Kitty was a woman who enjoyed her life. She loved to play bingo, to drink copious amounts of tea, to joke and laugh and was generally in a mood which brightened everyone else’s day. When she worked in Drumhills Nursing Home from January 1998 to December 2006, Kitty took care of the elderly residents as if they were her own family and even after her strokes when in hospital and CareChoice Nursing Home, Kitty had great sympathy and care for the other sick people around her. Kitty’s family meant everything to her. Kitty had a great interest in her nieces and nephews and loved to see them visit her during her illness. Her own children meant everything to Kitty, her eldest son Paul died tragically in 1997, Kitty found this unbearable, however, with the help and support of family and friends she got through this sad time. Kitty’s grandchildren brightened up her life so much, she was a typical loving and spoiling Nanny and when she was sick there was nothing she enjoyed more than her grandchildren visiting her in the last two years. She bore her two strokes with courage and determination, but perhaps after fighting to hold everything together for years, Kitty could no longer struggle on.When in Lourdes, she had Siobhan promise her that she and the boys would let her go when the time came and Kitty as ever was thinking of others in this request, as this gave her family the time to make peace with her dying. Her family’s peace of mind ensured Kitty, for whom life was so hard, was surrounded by love till her end. May she rest in peace. May we extend our deepest sympathy to her loving sons Pat, Alan, Tony and John; daughter Siobhan Harty; brothers Ollie, Paddy and Maurice Harris; sister Helen Curran (twin); daughters-in-law Marie, Michelle and John’s partner Sinead; son-in-law Richard Harty; grandchildren Lia, Tomás, Sean, Áine, Caoimhe and Colin; brother-in-law Joe Curran; sisters-in-law Kathleen, Helen, Sandra and Mary; nephew, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends. Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, 14th January, 2017, in St. Patrick’s Church, Kilbrien, at 7.30 p.m. (Funeral arrangements by Aidan Walsh & Sons, Funeral Directors, Cappoquin & Tallow).

EILEEN O’DONOGHUE (nee McInerney) “Abbeyville”, Clonea Road, Abbeyside Feelings of deep sadness and sorrow were evoked with the passing of Eileen O’Donoghue on Thursday, 29th December. Predeceased by her husband John in 1996, we extend our sincere sympathy to Eileen’s family Michele, Sheilanne, Alban, Elizabeth, Bill and David; brothers Noel McInerney (Tipperary) and Michael McInerney (Dublin); sister Tess O'Dwyer (Clonmel); sons-in-law Ray Dwyer, Paul Gilbett and Eamonn Phelan; daughters-in-law Margaret O'Donoghue, Jacqueline O'Donoghue and Corinna Walsh; brother-in-law Larry O'Dwyer; sisters-in-law Alice and Lena McInerney; grandchildren, nephews, nieces, other relatives and friends. Eileen lay in repose at the Kiely Funeral Home, Dungarvan, on Sunday, 1st January, where many people came to pay their respects and console the bereaved. The Rosary was recited in the presence of Eileen’s loving family and friends. Removal took place on Monday morning, 2nd January, to St. Augustine’s Church, Abbeyside. Requiem Mass in thanksgiving for Eileen’s life was celebrated by Fr. N. Hassett, P.P., assisted by Fr. S. O’Dwyer, P.E. Afterwards Eileen was laid to rest in St. Laurence’s Cemetery, Ballinroad. May Eileen rest in peace. (Funeral arrangements by James Kiely & Sons, Funeral Directors, Dungarvan).

55 JOHN O’SULLIVAN 49 Parks Road, Lismore It is with deep regret and sincere sadness that we record the passing of John O’Sullivan, Parks Road, Lismore, which sad event occurred on 9th December, 2016, in the loving care of the Matron, Nurses and staff of the Padre Pio Rest Home, Cappoquin. A native of Bruff, Co. Limerick, John, having received his education in Hospital, Co. Limerick, joined his four brothers in London where he worked for many years. He met his future wife Eileen at a dance in St. Bonifaces Hall in Tooting and they became united in Holy Matrimony in 1973. In 1975 they moved to Strood in Kent where they lived until he retired in 1989. Upon his retirement they moved back to Lismore where they were to spend many happy years in Parks Road. John loved Lismore and would always be seen out walking his dog ‘Dixie,’ playing his weekly round of golf in Lismore Golf Club and his weekly visit to St. Carthage’s Home with his good friend and neighbour Dick Ahearne. John was also a man of deep Christian faith and his devotion to the Church was very important to him. He was a daily Mass goer and was a Eucharistic Minister and collector in St. Carthage’s Church, as well as being a member of the Legion of Mary. Due to failing health, John moved to Padre Pio Rest Home in Cappoquin in 2013 where he received great care from the staff and remained there until he was called to his eternal reward early on Friday, 9th December. May he rest in peace. John lay in repose at Ryan’s Funeral Home, Lismore, where his good friend Dick Ahearne recited the Rosary on Friday night. Following funeral prayers recited by Fr. M. Cullinan, P.P., his removal took place on Saturday evening to St. Carthage’s Church, Lismore. Funeral Mass was offered up for the happy repose of John on Sunday morning by Fr. M. Cullinan, P.P., after which John was laid to rest in St. Carthage’s Cemetery, Lismore. To his loving wife Eileen; sisters Mary (Tallow), Noelle (Bruff), Phyllis (Patrickswell, Peg (Tara) and Eileen (Berkshire); brothers Anthony (Bruff), Denis and Tom (London); and his departed brother Patrick; nieces, nephews, relatives, neighbours and friends, we extend our sincere sympathy. Month’s Mind Mass for John will be celebrated on this Saturday, 7th January, 2017, at 6.15 p.m. in St. Carthage’s Church, Lismore. (Funeral arrangements were by Ryan’s Funeral Directors, Lismore).

BILLY BUTLER St. Martin’s Terrace, Dungarvan, and formerly of Kiladangan, Dungarvan With sadness and regret we record the passing of Billy Butler which sad event occurred on Thursday, 22nd December, at University Hospital Waterford.We express our deepest sympathy to Billy’s partner Kathleen; family, relatives and friends. Billy lay in repose at the Kiely Funeral Home, Dungarvan, on Friday evening, 23rd December, where the Rosary was recited. Funeral prayers were recited on Saturday morning, 24th December, by Fr. J. Condon, P.P., and afterwards the removal took place to St. Gobnait’s Church, Kilgobinet. Requiem Mass was celebrated by Canon W. Ryan, P.P., and afterwards Billy was laid to rest in the adjoining cemetery. May Billy rest in peace. (Funeral arrangements by James Kiely & Sons, Funeral Directors, Dungarvan).

NOEL COLLENDER Kilbarrack, Raheny, Dublin 5 It is with profound sadness and deep regret we record the passing of Noel Collender, Kilbarrack, Raheny, Dublin 5, and formerly of Limerick and Naas, Co. Kildare, a native of Cappoquin, Co.Waterford, which sad event occurred peacefully on 31st December, 2016. Funeral Mass was celebrated on Tuesday morning in the Church of the Resurrection Bayside, Dublin. Lying in repose at Aidan Walsh & Sons, Funeral Home, Cappoquin, on this Wednesday morning from 10.30 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. Followed by burial in St. Declan’s Cemetery, Cappoquin, Co. Waterford. May he rest in peace. We extend our deepest sympathy to his loving wife Una (nee Byrne); sons David, James and Sean; brother Edward; daughters-inlaw Regina and Lisa; grandchildren Kilian, Maria, Thomas, Ryan and Eve; nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends. (Funeral arrangements By Aidan Walsh & Sons, Funeral Directors, Cappoquin & Tallow).

FARMING

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 19 August, 2016

FARMING

Round-up … Flock owners urged to maintain vigilance and review bio-security protocol

IFA Grain Chairman Liam Dunne and the IFA Grain Committee congratulating Kildare farmer, Robert Chambers on his recent win at the Malting Barley Excellence Awards.

IFA Grain Chairman congratulates Malting Barley Award winner IFA Grain Committee Chairman, Liam Dunne has congratulated Kildare farmer and IFA Grain Committee member, Robert Chambers on his recent win at the Malting Barley Excellence Awards. Richard took home to the top prize

in the Awards organised by Boortmalt. He shares the award with his mother, Joyce, with whom he farms in Athy, Co. Kildare. Liam Dunne said, “I’m delighted Robert’s hard work and high standards have been acknowledged. It is great to

see a young farmer rewarded for their excellence in grain production. The next generation of farmers will continue to develop the high production standards for which quality Irish grain is renowned, and on which our valuable drinks industry is based.”

Good Dairy outlook for 2017 but cash flow overhang must not be underestimated IFA National Dairy Chairman Sean O’Leary said that continued milk price increases since July of between 5c/l and 7.5c/l have improved the confidence of Irish dairy farmers coming up to Christmas, but many bills remain to be paid, and cash flow concerns remain a top preoccupation. He said he was optimistic for the 2017 dairy market outlook, but bearing in mind the financial pressures still on farms, he urged dairy farmers to prepare early in January to fully utilise the new SBCI/state funded low cost (2.95%) cash flow loans IFA pressed for, which Minister Creed has stated will become available from the pillar banks and other lenders early in January. These will allow farmers to convert merchant credit, superlevy and other bills and make them more manageable. “Irish co-ops have increased their

milk prices by an average of 5.5c/l in the last five months, and I am clear that there is scope for further increases in the coming months. Over the same period, two of the largest European co-ops, Arla and Friesland Campina, increased their prices by 7.5 and 12.5c/kg respectively. With dairy markets remaining strong, there is scope for further milk price increases for Irish dairy farmers for this month’s milk and the coming months’,” Mr O’Leary said. “The outlook for dairy and milk prices in 2017 is positive, with global milk supplies unlikely to increase in response to improved milk prices over the medium term. Many farmers have been financially crippled by up to 3 years of low milk prices in all regions bar the US, and cow culls in the EU have increased by over

7.5% this year to date,” he said. “Global demand has also remained robust, with strong demand for butter and cheese in particular in developed countries. In emerging countries, ongoing exports of powdered products in particular have performed strongly, benefiting from the earlier lower dairy prices, but more recently from increases in oil prices,” he said. “It is crucial that co-ops would continue passing back as much as possible of the benefits they are gaining from improved dairy prices. It is also essential that farmers who need it would ready themselves early in January to avail of the SBCI/state funded cash flow loans to convert outstanding bills, spread them out over slightly longer periods, and reduce their cost,” Sean O’Leary concluded.

Minister Naughten must prioritise establishment of Energy Forum in 2017 IFA Renewables Project Team Chairman James Murphy has called on Energy Minister Denis Naughten to lead a co-ordinated approach to energy policy by establishing the long-awaited Energy Forum in early 2017. James Murphy said, “It has been over 12 months since Government announced its intention to establish a

national Energy Forum, to maximize and maintain consensus on energy policy”. He added, “There has never been as great a need for this Forum, given the post-Brexit concerns around the single energy market on the island of Ireland, the decision by An Bord Pleanála to grant EirGrid’s North-South Interconnector project and uncertainty

in renewables, particularly on feed-in tariffs for solar energy and biomass and the need for wind and solar planning guidelines.” Concluding, Mr. Murphy said, “Any new national Energy Forum must be more than just a talking shop. There is need for clear and joined up thinking and this clarity must come from this forum.”

IFA Poultry Chairman Nigel Renaghan has welcomed the decision by the Department of Agriculture to issue a housing order requiring all poultry and captive birds to be kept within a secure building. He said, “This is a necessary and practical measure in response to the confirmation of a case of bird flu in Wales earlier this week. I would urge all flock owners to review their bio-security protocols and ensure all measures are being taken”. Nigel Renaghan said everybody should work to safeguard the health of our poultry flock and he reassured consumers that farmers would remain vigilant. “There is no risk to humans as avian flu only affects birds.”

IFA demands strong price increase for Winter finishers CALLING for a strong price increase for winter finishers, IFA National Livestock Chairman Angus Woods said the positive change in the Sterling exchange rate from 89p back to 84p/€ is worth an additional 25c/kg in returns and leaves the factories in a strong position to increase prices to farmers. He said there is significant variation of between 10c to 20c/kg in the base price being paid by different factories. He said the general base price is €3.70/3.75/kg for steers and €3.80/3.85/kg for heifers but some top prices of €3.90 and €4.00/kg are being paid. Angus Woods said the factories have fallen well behind on price with the Irish price now below the EU average and a very widening gap opening up with prices in our main export market in Britain. LIVE EXPORTS On live exports, Angus Woods said IFA has been working hard on calf exports for next spring and has met a number of the exporters and the Department of Agriculture in recent weeks. He said IFA has called for a reduction in charges on live exports and particularly calves pointing out that it is totally unfair that calf exports are charged up to €8 per head, the same as a €1,400 beef animal going to the factory.

IFA working on calf exports for 2017 IFA National Livestock Committee Chairman Angus Woods said this week a strong live export trade for calves is essential for competition and to maintain a supply/demand balance in the Irish beef sector capable at delivering viable prices to farmers. Angus Woods said over recent weeks IFA has been working on various issues to assist the trade in 2017, including meetings with a number of the key

exporters and the Department of Agriculture. Angus Woods said IFA had met with the Department of Agriculture on calf sales and exports for 2017. He said IFA has requested that the Department of Agriculture would reduce the fees of up to €7.00 per head charged on calf exports. He said this level of charges, made up of Department of Agriculture inspection and disease levies, as well as Bord Bia charges, are way too high relative to the value of the calf. He said it is completely unfair that a calf worth between €80 and €150 per head would have to pay the same level of charge as a finished animal going through a meat plant worth €1,400 per head. The IFA livestock leader said IFA also met with Cork Marts, and while it was disappointing they were exiting the trade, the group has made some changes which will facilitate the sale and export of calves in 2017. He said Cork Marts have agreed to provide a rebate of €1.50 per head to purchasers who buy over 100 calves in their group. In addition, they will reduce the costs on sellers by over half from €6.50 to €3.00 per head on up to 50 calves. The National Livestock Chairman said IFA had worked hard in opening up the export trade to Turkey this year and this had proved critical to the weanling trade throughout the autumn. He said the latest boat sailed to Turkey this week with weanlings. Angus Woods said it is vitally important that Agriculture Minister Michael Creed and his Department ensures that a strong live export trade to Turkey and other Middle East and North African destinations continues into 2017.

Locally led schemes must deliver for hill farmers RESPONDING to Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed’s announcement of open call for locally-led initiatives in upland and other areas, IFA Hill Committee Chairman Pat Dunne said this scheme must deliver who are affected by designations on their land. Pat Dunne said the €24m available under this element of the RDP locallyled programme must make a meaningful impact on farm income and cannot be absorbed by consultants and others who will be devising plans in various upland and designated areas. The IFA Hill Chairman said hill farmers on the ground have already identified areas where this initiative can work, such as west Mayo, Connemara, south Kerry, the Wicklow upland and the Blackstairs. This can be added to in other upland areas where farmers will participate in environmental projects, which will supported by the locally-led initiative. Pat Dunne said that in the RDP 2014-2020, €70m is allocated to the locally-led programme. €15m of this has already been allocated to the Burren, €35m to hen harrier and freshwater pearl mussel areas, with the remainder to be allocated to other areas. IFA will be insisting that the vast majority of this money goes directly to farmers.

FARMING

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

Fine Gael will continue to champion the agri-food sector in 2017 FINE Gael will continue to champion the agri-food sector in 2017 and is optimistic the sector will continue to go from strength to strength in the New Year. Fine Gael Carlow Kilkenny TD and Chair of the Oireachtas Agriculture Committee, Pat Deering, highlighted Brexit as a challenge for Irish farmers, one which the Government is addressing. “I know that the withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the EU has shaped the agenda of Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Michael Creed this year, including the establishment of a dedicated Brexit Unit in the Department. “In addition plenty of work has been done to strengthen other areas of the sector. 2016 saw the establishment of the Knowledge Transfer Group Scheme, with groups being established for some 27,000 farmers across 6 sectors – Beef, Sheep, Dairy, Tillage, Equine and Poultry. These groups will provide a key

support to the agri-food sector in building its knowledge and skills base to underpin continued growth and competitiveness. “Recent Fishing Quota Negotiations were successfully concluded, seeing €280 million worth of quotes secured for the Irish fishing industry for 2017. “Ireland secured improved access for Irish beef to the US market in 2016, with the decision of authorities there to recognise Ireland’s raw meat control system as equivalent to that of the US. In principle this extends access to include manufacturing beef intended for grinding which is typically used in burgers and similar processed products. Ireland is the first EU Member State to achieve this status. Minister Michael Creed added: “2016 has been a challenging year for many people involved in the agri-food sector. Since taking office in May, I have set about putting forward

strategic solutions to many of the challenges facing the industry. “I am confident these measures will go some way towards assisting families and businesses through challenges arising from income volatility, poor weather and the uncertainty in the market caused by Brexit. I look forward to working with stakeholders in 2017 with renewed optimism, energy and drive to ensure the sector continues to grow.” Fine Gael recognise that agriculture is the heartbeat of the rural economy and schemes must be tailored to meet the challenges of farming on all types of land, across all sectors and on all sizes of farm holdings. We believe that the next generation of farmers must be supported and Ireland positioned as the highest quality food producing nation in the world, based on innovation and sustainability.

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IFA demands strong action on beef at Tullamore meeting, including price increase for Winter finishers FOLLOWING the IFA livestock meeting in Tullamore, Co. Offaly entitled ‘Beef Challenges 2017’, IFA President Joe Healy said based on market returns and the recent positive changes to the sterling exchange rate, the meat factories have major scope to increase beef prices. He said the change in sterling from 89p back to 84p in recent weeks is worth an additional 25c/kg in returns and all of this must be passed back to Winter finishers. Joe Healy pointed out factories were quick to inflict price cuts when sterling weakened following the Brexit vote last Summer. The IFA President told the large crowd at the meeting that there is a real income crisis on livestock farms with average incomes at only €12,500 to €16,000. He said cattle prices below the cost of production can’t work. “Teagasc has made it clear, over and over again, farmers need beef prices of €4.00 to €4.50/kg. For Winter finishers, Teagasc has put the breakeven price alone at €4.36/kg for fattening Continental cross cattle this winter.” On Brexit, Joe Healy called for a stronger Government response to assist exposed sectors like beef.

He said the Brexit and exchange rate impact on beef prices have been severe and farmers have been forced to carry the can through loss making prices all Autumn. “Brexit and the beef price fall is a market disturbance. The Government has to take this to Brussels and demand a positive response. This is what happened when Russia closed its borders and Brexit is a lot more serious for Ireland and our beef sector.” At the meeting, the IFA President called on Minister Andrew Doyle and his colleague Minister Creed to put a lot more resources and effort into assisting the live export trade. He said with increased cattle numbers forecasted for 2017, farmers need additional outlets and more competition. Joe Healy said IFA worked hard to get the live trade to Turkey going and this has been a life saver for the weanling trade this Autumn. In addition, he said the recent shipment to Libya is also very positive. He said it is the responsibility of the Department of Agriculture to ensure Irish farmers and exporters have unrestricted market access for the live cattle to all EU markets including Northern Ireland, Britain and continental Europe.

Addressing the meeting the IFA National Livestock Chairman Angus Woods said IFA has consistently raised farmer concerns about the lack of monitoring on carcase trim in the meat plants. “We are demanding that the Department of Agriculture appoints AOs in each meat plant to be responsible for ensuring that farmers are getting a fair and accurate carcase trim”. He called on the Minister and the Department to fulfil their responsibilities and commitment on this issue. He also called for action on the 30 month age limit. Angus Woods said Irish beef farmers are producing to the highest standards in the world. “We have full traceability, we have quality assurance audits and we even have carbon foot-printing on all our beef. This involves major work and costs for farmers. We are meeting every consumer requirement asked of us. In total contrast, the European Commission is pushing to import more and more beef from North and South America, as part of TTIP and Mercosur, which meet none of these standards.” Angus Woods told Minister Doyle that Ireland must

strongly reject any more beef imports and make this a red line issue in any trade deal with Mercosur or TTIP. On CAP, Angus Woods said for livestock farmers, strong direct payments are essential. He said the flattening of payments in the Ciolos CAP Reform is proving to be a real income challenge on many livestock farms. “To maintain a strong suckler cow herd, IFA is very clear that we need increased direct supports of €200 per cow, which would put us on a par with the French.” He said coupled supports for vulnerable sectors such as sucklers and sheep are going to play a greater role in the CAP in the future. He called on the Minister to reassess the policy of the Department of Agriculture in this area, adding that with Commissioner Hogan in Brussels, Ireland needs to lead the way on this at European level. Angus Woods said ANC, or Disadvantaged area payments, are also very important for livestock farm incomes. He said IFA has launched a strong ANC campaign to retain all areas and reverse the payments cuts. “We will be intensifying this campaign throughout 2017.”

Decision to approve Eirgrid’s North South electricity project disregards community concerns IFA Environment & Rural Affairs Chairman Thomas Cooney has described the decision by An Bord Pleanála to give EirGrid planning permission to construct several hundred pylons across the North-East as a decision which broadly ignores

the substantial concerns and wishes of the communities that are being asked to endure this infrastructure. Thomas Cooney said, “Communities across Meath, Monaghan and Cavan have made it very clear at every opportunity,

including at two oral hearings, that this project should only proceed in a way which caused the least long-term impact and that the line should have been put underground”. He added, “From the beginning, EirGrid did not support the

proposal to underground this project and it seems as if they have achieved their desired outcome today. However, communities are now left in a position where by and large their concerns have been rejected by An Bord Pleanála.”

READER’S QUERIES Question: I recently applied to join GLAS 3. One of the actions that I chose was to plant 450 trees in a grove on the farm. I have until the end of March 2018 to plant them but I could be heading for trouble. I had relatives down over the Christmas and we were discussing the GLAS and I said I had applied for it. Whilst on a stroll the following afternoon I pointed out to the area where I intend to plant my trees and my cousin, being already in GLAS 1, asked me how did I get away with picking that spot as it was underneath the power lines! I wasn’t aware there were any conditions in that respect and my planner never asked about power lines the day I called out to him. Will there be consequences over this or can I plant the grove elsewhere on the farm? Can you please advise? Answer: There are conditions as to the planting of trees in the vicinity of overhead lines, railway lines, dwelling houses and watercourses and there are specified distances from each. The distances from the power lines are governed by the voltage carried in the lines and these are set out in the GLAS 3 specification. As the area would have already been mapped out and the plan submitted, it would not be possible to change the location of the grove. It may however be possible to extend the external boundary of the grove to take into account the break allowed for the power line and say no more about it. However, if the boundary was not to be accepted in an inspection it could have financial implications for you. A bit of a gamble but I’d say you would have a sporting chance under the circumstances once the 450 trees are in place and the area on the grove, excluding the power line break, is still 0.09 of a hectare. I trust this will clear things up for you. Tip of the Week: Reminder to GLAS 1 and 2 participants that soil tests are required ASAP!

FA R M E R S ! HAVE YOUR FARMING QUESTIONS ANSWERED BY AGRICULTURAL CONSULTANT

TERENCE MORRISSEY Send your queries to: Dungarvan Observer, Shandon, Dungarvan,Co. Waterford, or to Morrissey & Associates, Mweelnahorna, Ring, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford.

FARMING

Lovely frosty landscape of Tallow and countryside with the Knockmealdown Mountains in the background on Tuesday, 3rd January, from Mountfair, Tallow.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

[David O’Flynn]

Teagasc BE WINTER READY The Office of Emergency Planning has published a booklet called Be Winter-Ready. I hope that it won’t be necessary to put any of this advice in to practice but as the scout motto says “bi ullamh”. The advice in the booklet for farmers is reproduced below. Stay safe Farming is always a dangerous occupation, and it is even more so when severe weather arrives. The last few winters have brought some very severe conditions, with heavy snowfalls and extensive flooding in some areas. Now is the time to PLAN, in order to minimise the effects of severe weather on your farm and your family. Look after your own safety: • Before going out on your land always tell someone where you are going, and how long you will be gone for. • Wear suitable layers of clothing. • Carry a charged mobile phone and a torch. • Never use a stand-by generator indoors, as fumes from the engine can be lethal. • Be sure that equipment (for example a chainsaw) which you may not have used for some time is serviceable and that you use it correctly. Cold Weather and Snow 1. Plan how you will get food and water to your stock. 2. Prevent your machinery and water supplies freezing up: • have thermostatically controlled heaters in the pump house

• an insulation blanket/plastic sheet, placed at the entrance to the milking parlour, may help prevent milking machines freezing up • drain wash-down pumps 3. Check the antifreeze levels in all your engines. 4. Have a plan to clear routes around your farm buildings, and have a stock of gritting material and salt. 5. When searching for animals in snow, wear high visibility clothing so you can be easily seen. Flooding on the farm If your farm is prone to flooding: 1. Move your livestock to areas you can access if flooding risk is high. 2. Carefully assess the depth of floods before driving through them. 3. Only use suitable vehicles if you have to drive through floods. 4. Secure valuable equipment and fuel supplies in suitable locations so that they are not ruined by water. Electricity Get a copy of the booklet “Farm Well… ..Farm Safely” from the ESB Networks website www.esb.ie. It tells you all you need to know about using electric equipment on you farm. • Stand-by generators. Special regulations apply to the connection and use of generators. • The connection must be installed by a qualified electrician. • ESB must be notified of proposed operation of a generator.

• Incorrect connection can cause a back feed posing a risk to yourself, other consumers and maintenance staff. SHEEP WELFARE SCHEME The new Sheep Welfare Scheme has been announced by The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine. The scheme will be introduced in January as part of Ireland’s Rural Development Programme. Farmers will receive a payment of €10 per breeding ewe, based on the average number of ewes held on their farm in the years 2014 and 2015 (Census records for these years). Farmers must choose two actions from a menu provided, based on whether the farmer has a lowland flock or hill flock. These actions must be completed over a 12 month period. Applications will be posted in early January to all farmers who have submitted a Sheep Census in recent years. New entrants will need to seek an application form from the DAFM. The closing date for applying for the scheme is the 31st January 2017. The completed 2016 sheep census must also be submitted by this date. The DAFM will be running a series of information meetings around the country in January where farmers can find out all the necessary information on the scheme. The nearest one to Waterford and Kilkenny will take place in the Clonmel Park Hotel, on Thursday January 12th at 8.00pm. FORESTRY CLINICS Teagasc will introduce a regular nationwide series of Forestry Advisory Clinics

throughout 2017 to facilitate as many farmers and other landowners as possible. The first series of these clinics will take place in the Teagasc Office, Dungarvan on the 12th of January promoting the establishment of forestry as a sustainable and rewarding land use on Irish farms. The 2017 Teagasc Forestry Clinics are an ideal opportunity to flesh out the details of how forestry might work for you. If you are already a forest owner, you are also welcome to come along to discuss forest management issues. A one-to-one forestry appointment with a Teagasc forestry adviser will provide private landowners with free, independent and objective advice, and can help you to address the following issues: •how a forest enterprise can improve farm and household income; • timber and non-timber benefits; • opportunities for non-farmers under the new forestry programme; • the effect of planting on other farm schemes, e.g., BPS, GLAS, AEOS; and, • how to get the job done right first time. Clinics will take place in the Teagasc office in Dungarvan between 10.00 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. This is an ideal opportunity to get answers to your forestry questions – don’t miss it! Prior booking is essential Phone 05841211. Happy New Year from Teagasc to all our clients and readers

FARMING

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

Forestry Advisory Clinic Forestry Forestry Advisory Clinic Avail of one to one consultations, providing independent advice on forest establishment and management options Teagasc Centre Dungarvan

Date January 12th

Time: 10 am to 4pm Get answers to your forestry questions Prior Booking is essential, please contact Teagasc Dungarvan at 058- 41211 or email: john.casey@teagasc.ie John Moloney Teagasc Regional Manager, Waterford/ Kilkenny

Waterford dealer unveils fertiliser spreader offer MINDFUL that fertiliser is one of the most expensive commodities a farmer must buy, and that much of it is lost in hedges and ditches when spread by machines that are overdue for replacement, Kilmore East farm machinery dealer Jim Power Agri Sales has announced details of a finance offer designed to help farmers trade up to a top end machine

without putting pressure on tight budgets. In conjunction with farm machinery distributor Farmhand, the Waterford dealership has launched an offer available until mid-February that sees an Amazone ZAM 1201 model being marketed, complete with folding cover and lights, for an initial deposit of €775, the balance to be paid in

nine half-yearly amounts of €775, inclusive of VAT. Renowned for its build quality and durability, the Amazone slow-turning, highcapacity agitation system and reduced disc speeds is said to ensure an even, granuleprotecting fertiliser flow – resulting in less dust and waste, coupled with better spread.

New entrant eligibility for Sheep Welfare Scheme welcomed but further flexibility required THE announcement by the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine Michael Creed allowing recent new entrant farmers to be eligible for the Sheep Welfare Scheme has been welcomed by Macra na Feirme national president Seán Finan. Mr. Finan said, “The new welfare scheme provides for those who were not farming in the 2014 and 2015 reference year and who are now farming sheep between January 2016 and the close of the scheme on the 31st January 2017 to be eligible for the €10 sheep welfare payment. I welcome Minister Creed’s commitment to new entrant sheep farmers following lobbying by Macra na Feirme on this issue”. As a further positive development, Macra na Feirme is proposing that Minister Creed look at increasing the flexibility of the scheme for young farmers under the age of 40, who were established in the reference years and have grown sheep numbers since the reference years to be eligible to apply on their current sheep stock numbers. Seán Finan said, “Young farmers starting out have their own

ambition and development plans to reach a certain stocking number to be financially viable and sustainable. This is not generally achievable in year one or two for many young farmers who reach their ideal stocking rates over a

number of years. These young farmers should be given the option of using either the reference years or their current stocking number”. Macra na Feirme believe this proposal would be a very positive move and is achiev-

able within the existing budget for the scheme. It would send a positive signal to young sheep farmers who are growing their businesses and contributing to the economic and jobs agenda in rural areas.

Michael Creed TD, Minister for Agriculture, Food and The Marine with Macra na Feirme President Seán Finan and Macra's Agriculture Affairs Manager Derrie Dillon.

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Movie Reviews In association with SGC Dungarvan

Shakespeare’s Last and Most Magical Play “The Tempest” Live at SGC Cinema Wednesday, 11th January at 7.00 p.m. Review by Jim Ryan

VoiceOver with Musical Director Cordelia Burke, Accompanist Daniel Kearney and Choir Co-Ordinator Mary Lawless.

VoiceOver is auditioning! THE 2016 Christmas season was a very busy one for VoiceOver. The Choir were guest artists at the Youghal Choral Society Christmas Carol Concert where a variety of choirs and instrumentalists kicked off that festive feeling! The following day saw the screening of RTE’s Nationwide programme for Dungarvan Aglow which showed the Choir performing on board the beautiful Vintage bus. Later in the week VoiceOver took part in the Brass Band Community Carol Concert in the Friary Church. To round off their Christmas schedule the ladies travelled to Waterford for rehearsal with massed local choirs and on the day also gave a solo performance at the Lions Club WLR FM Christmas

Appeal Concert in Waterford City. A truly moving Community event and a fitting end to what has been a very interesting and busy year for VoiceOver. Given that VoiceOver is in much demand we have decided to expand the Choir to include a few new members! To this end auditions will be held on the morning of Saturday, 14th January – venue to be confirmed. If you are a soprano or an alto we would love to hear from you! So if you would like to join our dedicated group of ladies; have some music reading ability and want to audition please email Mary Lawless at voiceover365@gmail.com for further details.

us at the Workhouse Kilmacthomas on Saturday, 7th January at 9.30 a.m. to kick start your 2017 transformation with the Waterford Operation Transformation Walk. Registration will begin from 9.00 a.m. at the Workhouse Car Park, Kilmacthomas. The Greenway is off road and predominately flat so it’s accessible, safe and enjoyable for all levels and abilities. This scenic route has been well used and enjoyed by locals and visitors. There will be two distance

co-conspirators are shipwrecked on his island. In the remainder of the play, the story unfolds of Prospero’s treatment of his would-be murderers and of the developing romance between Miranda (one of the author’s most appealing characters) and Ferdinand, the son of the King of Naples. Shakespeare may have taken his plot from a real-life event; in 1609 a ship from the English fleet,“The Sea Venturer”, set out for Virginia and was shipwrecked off Bermuda – Shakespeare’s play was first performed within two years of the event. In “The Tempest” we have one of the most wonderful plays ever written; to have it Live from Stratford with one of the best of modern Shakespeareans, Simon Russell Beale, as Prospero, is, for me, an unmissable event. It’s on at 7.00 p.m. on Wednesday, January 11th.

Rogue One: A Star Wars Story

Operation Transformation Waterford Walk Saturday, 7th January at 9.30 a.m. OPERATION Transformation is coming to Waterford for the seventh year running. The Sport Ireland National Network of Local Sports Partnerships has once again teamed up with Operation Transformation to promote healthy living in 2017. Last year over 400 people took part in the Operation Transformation Walk hosted by Waterford Sports Partnership in Waterford City & County. This year Waterford will host our walk along the newly developed Waterford Greenway. Join

IN November 2013, at SGC, we had our first ever live screening from The Royal Shakespeare Company at Stratford-uponAvon. They play was “Richard 11” and a wonderful production it was from this worldrenowned company. I can vouch for the excellence of their productions over many years, having seen them in Stratford and on tour in England and, on a few occasions, in Ireland. Since that evening in 2013, we’ve had many superb live screenings at SGC from the ‘Bard’s’ home town and I cherish a sunny week there last July where I saw four productions, two of Shakespeare plays and one each by Jonson and Marlowe. And what better play to await than one of my great favourites “The Tempest”, first performed in November 1611. “The Tempest”, Shakespeare’s drama of love, anger, revenge, paternal love and sacrifice, is generally accepted as his last individual play and Prospero’s haunting epilogue, has some of the most beautiful lines in all literature:“Now my charms are all o’erthrown And what strength I have’s mine own … And my ending is despair Unless I be relieved by prayer,

Which pierces so, that it assaults Mercy itself, and frees all faults. As you from crimes would pardoned be, Let your indulgence set me free. In these lines, many see great dramatist’s farewell to the stage and it is the most autobiographical of all his plays.Tradition suggests he played Prospero on the stage. “The Tempest” is performed reasonably often, and I feel certain it would by produced far more often if it weren’t for the difficulties in staging it; it opens on a tropical island and has a ship, gales and shipwreck, otherworldly spirits and magic, the sea and a cave. Twelve years before the play begins, Prospero, Duke of Milan, a magician more interested in books and the occult, had been treacherously betrayed by his brother, Antonio, and set adrift with his baby daughter, Miranda, to die in a rotting boat. His brother, Antonio, had plotted the overthrow with the King of Naples. Miraculously, they survive, marooned for twelve years on a deserted island where the only inhabitants are Caliban, the half-human creature and some “airy spirits” one of whom, Ariel, does Prospero’s bidding. As the play begins, Prospero brings about the tempest in which Antonio and his

Review by Bill Tubbritt

options marked out on the day, 3km and 5km so walkers can choose the distance that they are comfortable with. We welcome all ages and abilities and we would particularly like to see families getting involved. Don’t miss this chance to get moving and motivated for the year ahead! For further information please contact Pauline Cunningham on 076-1102682 or email pcunningham@waterfordsportspartnership.ie

FOR the eagerly awaiting Star Wars fans this one has to be like an early Christmas present. Rogue one is first in the new Star Wars spins offs which they are labelling the anthology films. Han Solo is due to follow in 2018 with a third as yet untitled anthology movie due for release in 2020. Rogue one ends at the exact point where Star Wars a New Hope started all those years ago. The plot of the movies revolves around the infamous death star. The Director of Advanced Weapons and Research for the Imperial Military abducts Galen Erso (Mads Mikkelsen) in order for him to produce the deadly weapon which he plans to use to destroy entire planets. Erso’s daughter Jyn Erso played by (Felicity Jones) witnesses the abduction and goes into hiding.

When she is an adult she meets up with the rebel alliance who plan to use her to track down her father and kill him before he even gets a chance to create the death star. Rumour were flying high in the summer when in June the cast were brought back for one month of reshooting in an attempt to fix some major issues with the movie. Directed by Gareth Edwards and written by Chris Weitz and Tony Gilroy Rogue one introduces us to a completely new set of characters which are introduced to the audience during the first hour of this 2 hour plus movie. This is a standalone movie so that is to be expected but it does make the movie seem a bit slow to start with. Amazingly thought it does all eventually fit together very nicely in the second half of the movie and proves to be quiet an entertaining watch.

Rogue one is probably going to rank high on the list of Star Wars prequels so the big call made on the reshoots will most certainly prove to be the right decision. Unless of course it was better before they changed it, guess we will never know now thought. Rating 4/5

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Drama Circle TUESDAY, 8th December, was our final Drama Circle of 2016. Charlie O’Donoghue opened proceedings with a quick round of “Mad Libs” completely transforming the old Christmas classic – the Twelve Days of Christmas. Thanks to all who then willingly took part in our impromptu pantomime, Ole King Cole. Martin Landers was a merry old soul indeed as Ole King Cole.Windbag, his trusty right hand man was ably played by Marlene Kirby while Michael Wright was a wonderful Lady Anna – the Dame, of course! The three fiddlers, Sarah Layman, Sandra Landers and Michael O’Brien provided the fun element along with the Kings three wives, Essie, Bessie and Tessie, read by Anne O’Donnell, Lisa O’Sullivan and Anne Hayes. The Fairy Queen – AnnMarie Hayes kept us all safe from the clutches of the Demon King and the Man in the Moon, dual roles shared by Joe Power and David Mansfield. Romantic interest was supplied by Robin, Orla Glascott, (the Pantomime Boy and Lady Anna’s son),and Viola, (Ole King Cole’s daughter) read by Deirdre Collender, who directed(!) and provided appropriate props and costumes at the relevant moment. Michael Wright followed this with a truly heartwarming story, and Michael O’Brien shared his cautionary Christmas Tale the theme being – we reap what we sow. Anne Hayes concluded the evening with a few of her lovely, seasonal poems. Apologies to anyone who wasn’t heard on the night due to pressure of time. We will remedy this on our return in January. We will be back again on Tuesday, 10th January, 8.00 to 9.30 upstairs in Merry’s thanks to Emilene, if you would like to join us. Drama Circle is a forum where like minded people gather to share poetry, prose, monologues, duologues or short plays.

The cast of ‘The Field’ by Aisteoirí an tSean Phobail.

Old Parish and “The Field” IN 1841, a young man, Robert Charles Welsh, was murdered in Old Parish as he was returning home from Dungarvan on his horse drawn gig. He was twenty three years old and owned a number of land holdings in the area. The horse continued the half mile on to his home, overturning the gig at the entrance and a search was started for the missing man. He was found in a field, having been beaten to death. No one was ever prosecuted, despite the offers of a substantial reward.The reason for his murder is believed to have been to consolidate his land by evicting some of his tenant farmers. On the one hand you had a young man, perhaps ambitious with notions of progress and insensitive to the consequences for his tenants while on the other, the tenants were fighting for their very survival and resorted to an appalling act of extreme violence. In the many and varied incidents of trouble over land, this local murder is more sharply defined than most and is similar to the incident which prompted John B. Keane to write The Field. In 1958 two neighbouring farmers in Kerry had a dispute over patch of poor land and when one of them was murdered, the finger of suspicion pointed very clearly at his neighbour, despite the fact that no evidence existed other than their ongoing feud. No one was ever charged despite the fact that the suspect's name openly mentioned and even daubed on the wall of the local creamery. Years later RTE made a television programme about the murder and interviewed the local community. Still there was silence, no

one would talk. And this is a major theme in John B's play, the unbroken conspiracy of silence. With the storyline of the play, John B. seems to move the plot close to the events of 1841 in Old Parish where possession of the land is the core issue. The main character in the play, “Bull McCabe”, is portrayed in demonic terms as a brutal,

obsessed man. As he strives to raise himself from the level of subsistence farming, his struggle blinds him to the point that even murder seems justified to take what he believes should be rightly his.This is a powerful play from the great John B. Keane, presenting difficult aspects of human behaviour in a wonderfully dramatised story, which

Scenes from ‘The Field’ by Aisteoirí an tSean Phobail.

echoes not just through Ireland but around the world. You can see The Field, performed by Aisteoirí an tSean Phobail, in Halla Colmán, Old Parish, from January 12th to January 15th – the first part of a John B. Keane celebration – with the second part just two weeks later when the group will stage Moll.

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SHERLOCK @ SGC Dungarvan

WIN

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Sherlock – The Final Problem Sunday, 15th January, at 8.15 p.m. Join Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman for the Series Four Finale of Sherlock. Also featuring exclusive content only being shown in cinemas. BBC Worldwide and Hartswood Films are thrilled to bring Sherlock back to the big screen for a special Series Four Finale on Sunday 15th January. Emmy Award®-winning actors, Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman, return to cinemas as Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson in this feature length special that caps off the highly-anticipated Series Four. Don’t miss your chance to see the Series Four Finale larger than life and on the big screen. (The episode will be shown on BBC1 at the same time). The Dungarvan Observer, in association with SGC Dungarvan, has a pair of tickets to give away to the lucky winner of our competition. All you have to do is answer the following question and post your entries into Sherlock Competition, Dungarvan Observer, Shandon, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford, on or before 12 noon on Tuesday, 10th January. Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

✄

✄ Question: Sherlock is screened at SGC on what date?

Answer: …………………………………………………………………………………………………………... Name: …………………………………………………………………………………………..………………… Address: ……………………………………………………………..…………………………………………… ………………………………………………………………………...………………………..………………... …………………………………………………………… Tel. No. ………………………...….………………...

IN SEARCH OF HAYDN WIN @ SGC Dungarvan

In Search of Haydn Monday, 16th January, at 8.20 p.m. Joseph Haydn is the composer that Mozart and Beethoven revered. Yet he is somewhat overlooked. In this documentary, award-winning filmmaker Phil Grabsky goes in search of one of the greatest composers of all. Grabsky’s biographical account of the life of Haydn includes breath-taking performances by some of the world’s most celebrated musicians. Through enlightening interviews with experts, detailed extracts from personal recollections and beautiful location footage Grabsky offers tremendous insight into not only Haydn’s music but the man himself. The Dungarvan Observer, in association with SGC Dungarvan, has a pair of tickets to give away to the lucky winner of our competition. All you have to do is answer the following question and post your entries into Haydn Competition, Dungarvan Observer, Shandon, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford, on or before 12 noon on Tuesday, 10th January. Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

✄ Question: In Search of Haydn is screened at SGC on what date?

✄

! WIN

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Ele Nic Craith, Treasa Ni Chrotaigh and Lucy Cusack pictured at the Helvick New Year’s Day Swim 2017 in Aid of Scoil Naisiunta na Rinne. [Michael Kiely]

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Old Parish January 12th, 13th, 14th & 15th

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Nollaig na mBan Little Women’s Christmas Pictured at Kilmurrin Cove taking part in the annual Michael Power Memorial Christmas Day Swim 2016 the proceeds of which will go to Nadine's Cancer Battle fund was Willie Gahan with family and friends. [John Power]

January 6th

Incorp. Munster Industrial Advocate Vol. 104 (Reg. in GPO as a Newspaper) Shandon, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford. Tel: (058) 41205 / 42042. Fax: (058) 41559.

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A happy Christmas in Clonea AS people may have noticed, there have been intermittent groups of Syrian refugees accommodated at Clonea Strand Hotel for the past twelve months or so. An ad hoc support group has been active with them, extending a welcome to what is for them a foreign and largely unknown country. As a result, they have been able to understand the Irish a

little better, which helps with their integration when they are settled in towns around the country.The also appreciated the welcome after what has been for some, several harrowing years and witnessing unspeakable atrocities and for all a major upheaval and loss of country, identity, dignity and independence. There have been many chil-

dren among those who have passed through Clonea over the past year and, like all young people they have a love of childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s things and looked forward to Christmas. In advance of the Late Late Toy Show on RTE, where a mountain of toys are shown, demonstrated and enjoyed by children and adults alike, Kate Douglas, one of the support

Pictured outside the Late Late Toy Show Office in RTE on a mission to collect toys after the Christmas Toy Show are from left: Carmel Keith with Claire, Neil, Kate and Robyn of the Toy Show.

Pictured in the Clonea Hotel before handing over Christmas gifts to the Syrian Refugees are from left: Theresa Keith, Caroline Sweeney, Mary Duggan, Kate Douglas, Jane Jermyn, Santa Claus, Carmel Keith, Eimear Wall and Liam Douglas.

group, wrote to RTE and asked that if they were disposing of toys that their group would be considered as a beneficiary, as the refugees would be glad of some of them too. Fortune smiled, and Dungarvan was chosen as a destination for a car-load of toys large and small and Carmel Keith, (with whom I am very familiar) another member of the group collected them for sorting, matching, parcelling and presenting to the families. We were warmly welcomed by the Late Late staff at RTE

and came home laden with goodies. Along with gifts from local people and businesses, these were distributed to the families in Clonea just before Christmas by none other than Santa himself, who was a big hit on the occasion. The local group were very appreciative of the welcome windfall and promised that the Toy Show gifts would be publicly acknowledged. They were also appreciative of gifts and goodwill from local people and organisations who

mainly wish to remain anonymous. So, with little enough effort, but a great deal of goodwill, Christmas for the Clonea residents was made a little warmer and children a little happier that they might forget, for a time at least, some of their worst nightmares on the their way to freedom here in Ireland. The members of the support group gratefully acknowledge the assistance they have been given and thank all those who made donations of one kind or another.

Placing the statue of the Infant Jesus

Our photograph above taken on Christmas morning in the vicinity of Dungarvan shows a rare view of Santa concluding his rounds in daylight and opting for a vehicle more suited to the roads than the sky. He fulfilled several commitments in the district before rejoining his sleigh and reindeer and returning to the North Pole for another year.

THE long-held tradition of placing the statue of the Infant Jesus in the Crib in Grattan Square on Christmas Eve was continued in its new location this year. A larger than usual crowd gathered to see two local girls place the Infant carefully in His resting place for the Twelve Days of Christmas as a group of other children looked on. Canon William Ryan, P.P., Dungarvan, led the group in prayers and imparted the Blessing while the members of the Playhouse Singers sang Christmas Carols before and during the ceremony. The event was facilitated by Michael Connolly from Waterford Council as he has done for some years. The simple and appropriate ceremony came at the end of seven weeks of preparations, business promotions, shopping and admiration for the magnifi-

cent display of Christmas lights leading the Dungarvan Aglow initiative to improve business and maintain Dungarvan as a welcoming and comprehensive

shopping destination, not only for Christmas but all year round. Dungarvan and West Waterford Chamber of Commerce have worked dili-

gently with their members and the Waterford City and County Council to make the commercial side of the Christmas Season as successful as possible.

Pictured with some local children at the dedication and blessing of the new Crib in Grattan on Christmas Eve were Fr. William Ryan, P.P., Dungarvan, members of the Playhouse Singers and Michael Connolly, Waterford City and County Council. [Tom Keith]

@DungarvanObserv

Vol. 104

Friday, 6th January, 2017

€2,600 RAISED AT ST. STEPHEN’S DAY JOLLY JAUNT

REMEMBERING 1981 ON THE GAA SCENE IN THE DEISE

Page 3

Pages 6 to 11

Waterford All-Ireland U-21 Victory Banquet – Park Hotel, Sunday, 1st January, 2017. Waterford U-21 manager Sean Power pictured with joint captains Patrick Curran and Adam Farrell and Austin Gleeson. [Noel Browne]

SPORT

sport@dungarvanobserver.ie

BALLYDUFF UPPER WINS MIKE QUIRKE CUP

IRISH KIDNEY ASSOCIATION RUN/WALK

Ballyduff Upper 1-14; An Ghaeltacht 1-8.

Hundreds turn out for Greenway event

Page 12

Page 20

Waterford All-Ireland U-21 Victory Banquet SEE PAGES 17, 18 & 19

WEST WATERFORD AC

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

23rd ANNUAL FORDE'S DAYBREAK WINTER LEAGUE

It’s never too late to join THE second half of the West Waterford Athletic Club Winter League kicks again on Wednesday, 4th January at the Sports Centre, Quanns, Dungarvan at 7.20 p.m. A large crowd is expected for the first night of 2017 and we hope that all those of you who have made the New Year resolutions to improve your health and fitness will come on down and join the league. Our motto at the winter league is that it’s never too late, so why not come along and get on your way to a healthier and fitter 2017. If tonight is your first night please come along around 7 o’clock so that we can issue you with a number and explain the procedure to you. Newcomers are welcome each night of the league and if you can’t make it tonight then come along next week and bring a friend or two with you, the more the merrier! Now that we all have had a break from the league it’s time to get back on track and concentrate on the next seven weeks of the league. Even if you haven’t managed to get some training in don’t let that put you off coming tonight, we will all be a little bit sluggish tonight for the first mile or two, just adjust your pace and in no time you will be back to normal. The starting times will vary each week in order to make each run as interesting as possible and also to give us all that extra push and motivation to get to the finishing line as quickly as possible. Don’t forget your reflective bib and your number for tonight. See you at the Sport’s Centre! THANKS TO ALL OUR WINTER LEAGUE RUNNERS AND HELPERS Our thanks to Santa who made a welcome visit last Wednesday evening to round 7 of the winter league, the final round before our customary break for Christmas, the league will resume again on Wednesday, January 4th. Now that the first half of the league is over we would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank all those involved in the league as without their help and support the league could not possibly to organise each and every week. We are most fortunate to have a dedicated team of stewards, timekeepers, administrators and traffic controllers who help out week after week regardless of the weather or conditions and we are extremely grateful for their invaluable help. A very special well done to all of you our winter league runners who have now reached the half way point of this year's league each and every one of you should be well please and proud to have made the start ,we wish you all a very happy

new year and injury free running 2017. See you all again for the 2nd half of the best league in town on Wednesday, January 4th. and remember please do bring a friend. MORE IMPROVEMENTS ON SHORT ROUTE ON FINAL NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS BREAK Last Wednesday night was the last night of The FORDES DAYBREAK Winter League for 2017 before our break for Christmas and once again there was a great number out again last Wednesday when 46 runners completed the 2.4 mile course and as has been the case each week, some excellent times and improvements were once again recorded. The first finisher this week was Michael Coakley in 19.48 followed by Siobhan Lenihan in 18.20 and Sean Duggan in 19.42. 4th and 5th on the night were Deirdre Flavin and Tracy Grant in 25.28 and 20.08 respectively. League Leader, Ann Quinn had a good run on the night when recording 17.45, a 32 second improvement on last week. Carol Walsh will be another lady happy with her run having broken 20 minutes to record 19.42. Anita Coleman will have 26 minutes in her sights for the new year having ran 26.06 last Wednesday. Denise Conway is edging ever closer to 19 minutes. She ran 19.13 this week. Fastest Finisher on the night was once again Mark Nugent in 15.51 (15 seconds ahead of last week). You can join in this league any week and we love to see newcomers added to the list. There are more people registering for the

league each week, so come along and give it a go – you have nothing to lose. You can make it a new year’s resolution. This is only the seventh week so remember there is a long way to go and aim to slowly improve. There is seven more weeks after Christmas. Also remember that it is important to warm up before running especially on cold nights. There is an organised warm-up in the sports centre starting at 7.00. This would be a help in avoiding any injuries and would help make your run more enjoyable. The league will recommence for the new year on 4th January. Happy Christmas to all our short route runners and our stewards who keep us safe each night. The top 5 on the league table at the half way mark in the league are only separated by only 57 points and that's with another 7 weeks after the festive season to come. Ann Quinn 701 Debra Doherty 680 Michael Dunne 675 Denise Conway 655 Fiachra Walsh 644 TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS Well we made it, 7 from 7 on the final night of the Forde's Daybreak Winter League of 2016 when once again we were treated to a fantastic night's weather and once again this led to many p.b's on the night. We will do it all again tonight (4th January) when we get back in action with 7 more nights of running. This is also an opportunity to join the league if you have not already done so. We will be at the Sports Centre from 6.45 pm on and we will

Kevin Casey "Top Oil" associate sponsors of the Forde's Daybreak Winter League presents last week’s voucher winner Ray Curran with his

Your help is needed for Dungarvan 10 Mile road race IT’S a mammoth task for our club to organise the upcoming Dungarvan 10 mile. We have been fortunate in the past to have had help from club members and also from many outside of the club circle who come along each year to give a few hours of their time. This year we are in need of that same help again and even more, with a much bigger field assembled this year we will be under more pressure in making sure these visitors to our town leave with a good expe-

rience of what Dungarvan has to offer and we hope such will be the impression we will make on them that they will want to come back again to visit the town for maybe a longer stay. We will need stewards and people to help with catering on the day, if you have a few hours on February 5th please contact stewarding co-ordinator Karen Ryan 086 8245683. Please support your local athletics clubMany hands make light work!!

get you started and help you with your fitness goals for 2017, why not come along and make a start, it's never too late and oh yes bring a friend if you have one! TOP 5 RUNNERS HOME ON LONG ROUTE Topping the table this week for the most improved time and taking maximum points on the night was Linda Bradfield (45.17) from a previous best of 49.12 while second place went to Nicola Ui Artaigh (47.47) and Nicola best time before week 7 was 51.29. So well done to these 2 ladies who took off almost 4 minutes, super stuff ladies. Karen Ryan and Ann Dunford got a break from stewarding and were next home on the night while Mahonbridge man Nicky Power is putting all injuries behind him as he recorded a mighty improvement in his time to clip around in 38.12. Others to make great improvements on the night were Thomas Condon (42.55), Mary O’Keeffe (54.35), Aine Foley (47.38), Paul McGrath (40.59) while Deirdre Hahesy and Michelle Finnegan also took advantage of the ideal conditions recording 50.26 and 45.44 respectively. Fastest man on the night were Gavin Whelan (30.02), also a p.b. for Gavin in this year's League. First lady home in week 7 was Joanne O’Neill in 34.11 so well done to these 2 runners. LEAGUE LEADERS With the Winter break after 7 weeks of the league we can see that Paul Lenihan is still out in front and has strengthened his position from a lead of 2 points he now has a lead of 27 points. Darren Coogan has moved from 3rd to second while a lady had entered the top 5 with Angeline Drennan now in 5th spot. For the record the top 5 are as follows: Paul Lenihan 1255 Darren Coogan 1228 Caolan Flynn 1220 Conor O Neill 1197 Angeline Drennan 1179 TOP OIL VOUCHER WINNERS THIS WEEK For the 2016/17 Forde's Daybreak Winter League we have been fortunate enough to have received sponsorship from our friends in Top Oil, our own Kevin Casey and James O’Sullivan have come on board to generously sponsor two €20 vouchers, one for the short route and one for the long route each week. We decided the best way to allocate the vouchers was to pick the 50th finisher in each route every week and to date we have 14 winners and they are: (please note we picked the 40th finisher in the short route this week). Week 1 long route Walter Drohan

Cathal Gleeson "Venture" presents winner Jim Veale with his hamper. Our thanks to Cathal and all at "Venture" for donating the hamper which was raffled among all Winter league stewards. Congratulations to Jim who was the lucky winner. Week 1 short route Michelle Mc Grath Week 2 long route Eleanor Casey Week 2 short route Sandra Ferncombe Week 3 long route Angela Bree Week 3 short route Vincent Tutty Week 4 long route Andy Hickey Week 4 short route Jason O’Riordan Week 5 long route Linda Bradfield Week 5 short route Dane Tobin Week 6 long route Ray Curran Week 6 short route Michelle Mullaney Week 7 long route James Whelan Week 7 short route Pat Morrissey We would ask any prizewinners who haven't collected their prizes to date to call to the "New Registration" table tonight at the league as we would like to get a few photos with our sponsors and we will present the vouchers. DR. ANITA GLEESON CHIROPRACTIC CLINIC VOUCHER WINNER FOR WEEK 7 OF WINTER LEAGUE Dr. Anita Gleeson BSc, MSc, DC is a Registered Chiropractor working from Dungarvan Chiropractic Clinic, Alternative Health Centre, Main Street Dungarvan. Anita has kindly donated a voucher for treat-

ment in Dungarvan Chiropractic Clinic which will be awarded each week of the winter league. Every second week it will go to either the short route or the long route. For week 7, the voucher went to the short route with the winner being Michael Tutty (735). Our thanks to Anita for this kind donation to the league and she can be contacted for appointments on 058-44299. Chiropractic is a primary healthcare profession that specialises in the diagnosis, treatment and management of problems relating to muscles, bones and ligaments of the body. STARTING TIMES FOR TONIGHT Starting times for round 8 sees runners going off at 1 minute intervals-for round 2 the following week it will be something different as we have our traditional guess your time (Colligan cup style) run, notices will be posted in the hall tonight explaining how this works, if unsure about anything don't hesitate to ask one of the stewards in the hall. "VENTURE" WINTER LEAGUE STEWARDS DRAW A huge thank you to Cathal and all at Venture Dungarvan who donated a beautiful hamper which was raffled among all stewards of our Forde's Daybreak Winter League. The lucky winner of the hamper was Jim Veale a long time winter league steward, congratulations Jim and thank's once again Cathal for your kind gesture.

29th Annual Kiely Monumental Colligan Cup MICHAEL ROCHE CARPETS RACE SERIES THE Michael Roche Carpets Series will continue on Sunday, 15th January at 12 noon with the 29th Annual Kiely Monumental Colligan Cup. The Juvenile race starts at 11.00 p.m. The senior race is over the usual 5 miles Colligan wood circuit and Juveniles will have a single 1-mile circuit to run.

The Colligan cup is a unique event in that it is run on a handicap basis where you simply predict your finishing time over a 5 mile run, with the winner being the person who is nearest to that predicted time. This makes the race open to all no matter what your standard is, everyone has the same chance of taking the title. Now in its 29th year we would like to thank sincerely our sponsor

for all of those 29 years David Kiely of Kiely Monumental for his on-going support for the local running club West Waterford AC. So for a great fun event on the yearly running calendar Colligan is where you need to be come Sunday, 15th January. Entry to the series is just €2 and this can be paid when entering the race in Colligan on the day.

WEST WATERFORD AC

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6th January, 2017

The 25th Annual Michael Roche Carpets race series THE Michael Roche Carpets sponsored Series is in full swing with 2 races completed the Murray’s Pharmacy Brickey 4 mile road race and the Paddy Joe Curran Memorial Turkey Trot with the next race, race number 3 The Kiely Monumental Colligan Cup coming up on Sunday, January 15th. The series is only €2 to enter and you can enter right up until the Kilmacthomas 5. To count in the series you have to participate in 4 of the 5 events as per normal for this series to count in the overall standings. The series events remaining are the Kiely Monumental Colligan Cup January 15th, The Bausch and Lomb Kilmacthomas 5 on Sunday, 12th February at 11 a.m. and the final event is the Déise College Dungarvan 10k on Sunday, February 19th at 11 a.m. Once again West Waterford Athletic Club thanks Michael, Bridget and family for their continued support to the club by sponsoring this series now in its 25th year. As always we urge or members to support all our sponsors when appropriate.

15th ANNUAL BAUSCH & LOMB KILMACTHOMAS 5 The penultimate race in the Michael Roche Carpets Series will be on Sunday, February 12th at 11 a.m., the 14th Annual Bausch and Lomb sponsored Kilmacthomas 5 mile road race. Entries will be taken at the community hall Kilmacthomas at the top of the town with the entry fee being €8. Shower facilities will also be available in this hall after the event for both men and women. With the help of the very generous sponsorship very kindly given by Bausch and Lomb a very attractive prize fund will be on offer for the top competitors and plenty of spots for down the field finishers also. Presentation of prizes will take place at Kirwan’s Bar on the Main St. where sandwiches and refreshments will be available to all. 35th ANNUAL DEISE COLLEGE DUNGARVAN 10K The final race in the Michael Roche Carpets Series, the Déise College Dungarvan 10K will take place on Sunday, March 19th at 11

Munster Masters Indoor Track and Field THESE championships will be held in Nenagh on the 15th January and please note that you cannot enter on the day, all entries must go through Ann Dunford (club secretary) and Ann's number is 086 0619711. To date we have the following entries Joe Gough 200, 800 Terry Gough 60, 200, 800 and shot Ray Hahesy 1,500, 3,000 Harry O’Brien 800, 1,500 We would like to wish all these athletes best of luck taking part in these Championships.

a.m. Now in its 35th year and one of the oldest races on the local road running calendar the Déise College Dungarvan 10k is always one of the more popular races. The club is delighted that Déise College and its proprietors Caroline and Alan Ryan are continuing their sponsorship for this race. The race will also see a number of perpetual trophies being presented. We have the Seamus Power Memorial Trophy to the first male finisher and the Mikey Roche Memorial Trophy for the first local female finisher. We will be using the fast canal circuit as we have used now for the past couple of years for this race with the race headquarters at the Dungarvan GAA club pavilion which is where the presentation of prizes for the race and for the overall series will also take place. The race will start and finish in the same place as always at the Industrial Estate just off the N25, with just a short jog to and from the Dungarvan GAA Club grounds for the runners.

Mick Concannon conquers the Hill of Howth

West Waterford athletes to the fore at Portumna marathon

VERY well done to two club athletes who ran the St. Stephen's Day Clonmel 4. Damien Murphy had a brilliant run to finish 6th in a fast 20.01 and Dermot Cummins, home from the UK for Christmas, ran a super 20.27 for 10th place.

WHILE most of us are still indulging in the culinary delights of Christmas, four of our club members had marathon running on their minds when they made the trip to Co. Galway for the Portumna marathon on Tuesday last. Ted O'Leary was our fist man home in a time of 3.30 with Paul Brunnock completing the forest circuit course in 4.07, Sue Genc truly broke the 5 hour mark when she ran a time of 4.53 and Terri Gough ran a time of 5.48. Well done to all.

THE club membership for 2017 can now be paid now. The club membership is for the calendar year January to December. The membership stays unchanged at €25. You can pay your membership at any club event or download a membership form on club web site www.westwaterfordathletics.org and send to registrar Gerry Cantwell Helvick, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford. Also you can now pay your club membership online at www.westwaterfordathletics.org

Club committee meeting THE club’s first committee meeting of 2017 will take place this Thursday, January 5th in Minnie’s Bar at 8.30 p.m.

Happy New Year WEST Waterford Athletic Club extends new year's greetings to al its members, sponsors, friend's supporters and helpers. May 2017 bring you all the health and happiness you desire.

Running Quote BELIEVE me, the reward is not so great without the struggle.

Sympathy

Seamus O Droma and Sean Walsh willing participants at the St. Stephen's Day charity run in aid of St. Mary’s Primary School ASD Unit. 2.600 euro was raised.

A record €2,600 raised at St. Stephen’s Day Jolly Jaunt In aid of St. Mary’s Primary School ASD Preschool Unit THE annual St. Stephen’s Day fun run jointly organised by Dungarvan GAA in association with West Waterford athletic club was held again this year, the weather was ideal for the event and a huge turnout of walkers and runners took part. All are to be congratulated on raising the grand total of €2,600 the largest amount ever raised in the history of the event with all monies donated to this year's chosen charity the St. Mary's primary school

ASD preschool unit. This was brilliant amount raised and a delighted organisers Paddy Fitzgerald and Jim Dee would like to sincerely thank all those who came along in such big numbers and who donated so generously on the morning. The cheque presentation was made to School Principal Fiona Fitzgerald who was absolute delighted with the monies raised and thanked everyone most sincerely saying it will directly be used at the

unit within the school. Very special thanks once again this year to the ladies of the catering committee who provided the cuppa and the sandwiches which greeted the participants on their return to the centre. Thanks also to Jamie Mills who looked after the stewarding on the route. We hope to see all those who took part this year back again for next year’s event where we will collect more much need funding for a worthwhile charity.

MARATHON fever is really gripping the club last weekend,as we learn member Mick Concannon was in action on the Hill of Howth, 5 laps in fact as he completed the marathon there this morning in a time of 3.54. Well done Mick.

Top 10 finish for West Waterford athletes in Clonmel 4 miler

Club membership 2017

Pictured at the cheque presentation of €2,600 after the St. Stephen's Day charity run in aid of St. Mary’s Primary School ASD Preschool Unit were l-r: Jim Dee, Paddy Fitzgerald Dungarvan GAA club; Fiona Fitzgerald, Principal St. Mary's Primary School; Ray Hahesy, West Waterford Athletic Club and Tony Ryan, Chairman Dungarvan GAA Club.

WEST Waterford Athletic Club extends sincere sympathy to the family and friends of Declan Coleman, Murphy Place, Abbeyside and Eileen O'Donoghue, Abbeyville, Clonea Road, Abbeyside, who passed to their eternal reward recently. May they rest in peace

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GOLF

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6th January, 2017

DUNGARVAN GOLF CLUB Tel. Office 058-43310, Fax. 058-44113, Pro Shop 058-44707. Bar/Restaurant Tom Daly Catering 087 2680597 Timesheets online at www.dungarvangolfclub.com Email: dungarvangc@eircom.net CAPTAINS’ DRIVE-IN Our Captain’s Drive-in was a tremendous success on New Year ’s Day. A great turnout were kept warm with Ciara And Bronagh lashing out hot whiskeys and mulled wine before heading to the first tee to wish our Captains the very best for their year. Surrounded by friends and family and despite some joke balls from the Pro, Junior Girls Captain Aisling Reynolds fired a fine drive down the middle. Lady Captain Christine O’Keeffe followed suit and again despatched a fine drive down the fairway. Not to be outdone by the girls, Junior Captain Jake O’Riordan fired a bullet from the tee, followed gamely by our Captain Declan Walsh. Four fine drives to start the New Year. A nine hole Scramble followed the Drive In before we adjourned to the bar to enjoy some food and refreshments. Vice Captain Sean thanked our social committee for a wonderful effort organising the event and remarked how wonderful it was to see some many junior golfers taking part. It was a wonderful day and a great way to start the New Year. DEISE GOLF WORLD GENTS WINTER LEAGUE We have reached the final stage of the Deise Golf World Gents Winter League. The teams that have qualified for the final are Christy O’Connor, Sam Sneed, Ian Woosnam and JM Olazabal. Format Best 5 cards out of 9 from Wednesday 4th to Sunday 8th January inclusive. We thank all the members for their weekly participa-

tion in all conditions and making the competition a great success. Thanks to Graham Nagle Deise Golf World for his sponsorship. Best of luck to the finalists who battle it out, may the best team win. FIXTURES Wed., 4 Jan. Open Gents 16H Singles S/F Deise Golf World Winter League Final Thurs., 5 Jan. Open Gents 16H Singles S/F Deise Golf World Winter League Final Fri., 6 Jan. Gents/Ladies 16H Singles S/F Deise Golf World Winter League Final Sat., 7 Jan. Gents/Ladies 16H Singles S/F Deise Golf World Winter League Final Sun., 8 Jan. Gents 16H Singles S/F Deise Golf World Winter League Final Mon., 9 Jan. Open Gents/Ladies Seniors (50+) 16H Singles S/F Tues., 10 Jan. Ladies 11H Singles S/F Wed., 11 Jan. Open Gents 16H Singles S/F Thurs., 12 Jan. Open Gents 16H Singles S/F Fri., 13 Jan. Gents/Ladies 16H Singles S/F Sat., 14 Jan. Open Gents/Ladies 16 Holes Singles S/F Sun.,15 Jan. Gents 16H Singles S/F GENTS RESULTS Mon. 26th 16H Singles S/F: 1st Ml Ahearne (18) 38pts. Tues. 27th Deise Golf World 16H Singles 1st M. Walsh (9) 42pts, 2 Tom Flynn (18) 40pts. Tues. 27th Mullinahone Fourball 1st AJ Hayes & James Hayes 63pts. Wed. 28th Singles 1st Justin

GOLD COAST GOLF CLUB You can contact us by phoning

058-44055 Our email address is:

goldcoastgolf@cablesurf.com www.goldcoastgolfclub.com NEW YEAR’S GREETINGS This time of year is so special to us all. It's a time we reflect on the past year, prepare for the coming year and appreciate the events and friends that are and have been special to us. Golf clubs have faced some difficult time over the past few years but there is a change coming and we can be truly optimistic about 2017. We look forward to meeting and greeting you all to the Gold Coast in 2017 and on behalf of all our Officers, Committee and Management we extend best wishes for the New Year to all our members, our visitors and all connected with the Club in any way. SYMPATHY On behalf of our Captains and all the members we offer condolences to Jerome Maye on the death of his

mother last week. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam. 2017 All our new committees are now in situ and the officers of both the Ladies and Gents Clubs are busy putting together the programme for the coming year. Good progress is being made and hopefully in a couple of weeks the entire programme will be available online for all members to download. PREMIER BUTCHER AT DAWN MEATS WINTER LEAGUE 10 weeks completed and 858 games played and still it is too close to call. 42 players have now completed their 10 rounds and are now in the happy position of being able to try and improve on their scores. Already this new format has proved

Dungarvan Golf Club Captains’ Drive-In 2017. Declan Walsh, Captain; Christine O'Keeffe, Lady Captain; Aisling Reynolds, and Jake O'Riordan, Junior Captains with members and friends of DGC [Pat Crowley]

Walsh (12) 37pts, 2 Diarmuid O’Neill (6) 36, Gross Alan Thomas 36, 3rd Sean Moloney (13) 35, 4th Paddy O’Brien (13) 35. Thur. 29th Deise Golf World Singles: 1 Mossie Walsh (8) 39, 2 Brian Morrissey (7) 38, Gross John Reynolds 33, 3rd Charlie Barry (15) 38. Thurs. 29th Cross Cards (All Rounder) 1st Derek Power (19) and Gerry Whelan (13) 46pts. Fri. 30th Champagne Scramble (All Rounder) 1st N O’Connor (17) Paddy Barry (19) Jim Quinn (22) 91pts, 2nd Eoin Stack (4) Tom Stack (6) Ann Stack (27) 89pts. Sat. 31st Open Singles: 1st John Moran (22) 39pts, 2 Pat Fitzgerald (20) 37, Gross John Reynolds (Scr) 33, 3rd Denis Ryan (17) 36, 4th Pat Power (20) 36. CSS 36. Sun. 1st Jan Captains Scramble: Front 9 1st Declan Walsh, Christine O’Keeffe, Aisling Reynolds, Jake O’Riordan 28, 2nd Kevin Stack, Denis O’Brien, Bernie Hayes, Louise Moloney 281/3. Back 9 John Reynolds, AJ Hayes, Maeve Fitzgerald, Jack Kiely 261/3. 2nd Tom Quinlan, Mattie Mullaney, Tom Considine, Kate Morrissey 271/4.

LADIES RESULTS Sat. 31st Dec. Singles 1st Theresa Keane (24) 34, 2nd Pat Flanagan (21) 31. ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS The annual subscriptions and gui/ilgu fees are due for payment. Payments are accepted both in the office and bar. For convenience please note that the office has the facility to accept debit and credit card subscriptions payments over the phone. Also Club bank account details can be provided for members who prefer bank transfer. We thank members for making payments already. Thank you for your continued support. SPECIAL MEMBERSHIP OFFER INCLUDING GOLF LESSON All of us who play know that Golf offers so much more. Not only is it a hobby for life, it offers a social outlet as well as a healthy lifestyle option. It can be therapeutic as well as fun. New members can avail of an Introductory Offer of just €300 including one complimentary lesson from our resident Professional David Hayes. Dungarvan Golf Club is the only members club in the town and our facilities include a

Championship course and practice facilities, Bar (with the best pint in town), Restaurant (with the best steak in town) and Snooker Room, a resident PGA professional and fully stocked Pro-Shop. This offer is for a limited time only. Contact Irene Lynch Secretary/Manager on 058-43310 or dungarvangc@eircom.net if you require further information or assistance. SIXTY.COM 28th Dec. 1st Pat Power (21) 23pts, Best Male Paul Sarsfield (19) 20pts. Next Competition Wed. 4th Jan, draw for partners at 1.30p.m. If you are aged 60 or over and you are interested in joining the 60.com we would be delighted to see you. Just turn up any Wednesday at the above starting time. YOUNGONES Next Competition Wed., 4th Jan, front 9 at 12 noon. PROGRESSIVE 45 22/12/16 1st P. Boland and MA McCarthy, 2 T. Curran and P. Harty, C. Bannon and Sheila Morrissey, Last 5: Ann Morrissey and Nuala Harty. Lucky Table: David Fitzgerald and S. Fitzgerald. Progressive 45 every Thursday

night, all are welcome. SOCIAL BRIDGE Friday mornings 11.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. (no partner required), all are welcome. PRO SHOP NEWS David and Grace would like to thank everyone for their support to wish all members a Happy New Year. JUNIOR NEWS Our Junior Christmas Scramble sponsored by Social Committee took place on Friday 30th December. There was a great party atmosphere with food, prizes and a disco and great enjoyment was had by all. The juniors were also well represented on New Year’s Day as they wished Junior Captains Jake and Aisling well as they drove into office in style. Any enquiries relating to Junior activities at the club can be directed to David Hayes PGA. David can be contacted at 058-44707 or email at golfpro@eircom.net NEW YEAR’S GREETINGS The Management Committee, Ladies and Men’s Clubs & Staff would like to wish all our members, visitors and sponsors a very prosperous New Year.

to be a success in both playing terms, enjoyment and financially. With eight weeks to go anything can happen and it would be a foolish man who would bet on which team finishes first or last in this league. TURKEYS AND HAMS Over the past 9 or 10 years we have given out lots of turkeys and hams as prizes for competitions leading up to Christmas. It would not have been possible for us to give so many and of such high quality without the support of Dawn Meats and in particular Michael Wall. All it takes is a phone call to Michael and everything is arranged and the turkeys and hams are delivered to the Gold Coast for collection by the winners. CUPS AND SHIELDS FIXTURES 2017 AIG Jimmy Bruen Shield 13/14 May At Tramore GC Round 1: Lismore v Gold Coast. AIG Pierce Purcell Shield 27/28 May At Youghal GC Round 2: Gold Coast –v- West Waterford. Irish Mixed Foursomes 17/18 JuneAt Dungarvan GC: Round 1: Gold Coast –v- Waterford. Senior Cup 24/25 June At Tipperary GC Round 1: Youghal –vGold Coast. Junior Cup 1/2 July At West Waterford GC Round 1: Gold Coast –v- Waterford Castle. Barton Shield At Waterford Castle GC Round 1 Faithlegg –v- Gold

Coast. Michael Cashman Munster Club Four-Ball Gold Coast –v- Waterford Castle. WINTER RATES AT GOLD COAST From now until 31st March the following rates will apply for Green Fees: Monday to Friday: Golf €15 or golf & Carvery lunch for €20. Saturday/Sunday: Golf €20 or golf & Carvery lunch for €25. LOCAL RULE FOR ACCIDENTAL MOVEMENT OF A BALL ON THE PUTTING GREEN “Rules 18-2, 18-3 and 20-1 are modified as follows: When a player’s ball lies on the putting green, there is no penalty if the ball or ball-marker is accidentally moved by the player, his partner, his opponent, or any of their caddies or equipment. The moved ball or ball-marker must be replaced as provided in Rules 18-2, 18-3 and 20-1. This Local Rule applies only when the player’s ball or ball-marker lies on the putting green and any movement is accidental. Note: If it is determined that a player’s ball on the putting green was moved as a result of wind, water or some other natural cause such as the effects of gravity, the ball must be played as it lies from its new location. A ball-marker moved in such circum-

stances is replaced." FIXTURES Monday 2nd/Fri., 6th January: Winter League Week 11. Tuesday, 3rd Jan: Open Seniors, Ladies & Gents 50+ Friday, 6th Jan.: Open 18 Holes Stableford. Sat., 7th/ Sun., 8th Jan.: Winter League Week 11 RESULTS Friday, 23rd Dec.: Friday Open & WL week 9 CSS 39 pts 1st: Gerry Whelan (10) 40 pts. Gross: Niall Curran (6) 34 pts. Tuesday, 20th Dec.: Open Seniors, CSS 38 pts. 1st: Brian O’Connor (9) 37 pts. Saturday, 24th Dec, Winter League Week 9, CSS 39 pts: 1st: Maurice Swan (16) 40 pts. Tuesday, 27th Dec: Open Seniors, CSS 39 pts. 1st: Joe B Ryan (21) 42 pts Tipperary; 2nd: Seamus Ryan (16) 41 pts Tipperary. Friday, 30th December: CSS 39 pts. 1st: Darren Power (15) 44 pts. 2nd: Seanie Lenihan (10) 43 pts. Gross: Micheal White (2) 38 pts. 3rd: Noel McCann (14) 43 pts. Sat., 31st Dec/Sun., 1st Jan: WL Week 10: CSS 39 pts. 1st: Brian O’Connor (9) 43 pts. Cat 0-9: Conan Watt (7) 40 pts. Cat 10-14: Austin Kiely (12) 42 pts. Cat 15-17: Tim O’Driscoll (15) 43 pts. Cat 18+: Willie Moore (19) 43 pts.

LADIES NOTES Fixtures: 10 Hole Ham Competition. 9 Hole Ongoing for Beginners. Results Ham No. 5 Elaine Goss 25 pts. Mooring’s Bar and Restaurant Winter League: Our 13 hole winter League Round 5 kindly sponsored by the Mooring’s Bar and Restaurant will be resuming on Mon., 9th Jan. for two weeks giving everyone a chance to get their scores in!! The continuing favourable weather for the New Year should have some remarkable scores for round 5 which will narrow the gap again between the teams bringing out the competitive streak in many of our players!! The re-entry is still proving a great success with all team members making a supreme effort – well done ladies!! Condolences: We would like to offer our sincere sympathy to our members, Alice Collins, Noirin and Karen Darcy on their recent very sad bereavements. May they rest in peace. New Year Greetings: Our Captain Gerardine, President Gillian and committee would like to convey our very good wishes to all our members, wishing you all health and happiness for the New Year and looking forward to a wonderful year of golf in 2017. We have some great packages on offer for new members!! Contact Bob or Mark on 058-44055.

GOLF

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6th January, 2017

At the West Waterford Golf Club Captain’s Drive in 2017 were Mikey Hanlon, Junior Captain; Pat Power, Captain; Mary Herlihy, Lady Captain and Diarmuid Horgan, President. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

WEST WATERFORD GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB

Telephone: 058-43216. Fax: 058-44343. info@westwaterfordgolf.com

www.westwaterfordgolf.com RESULTS 16 Hole Stableford Mon., 26 Dec. – Sunday, 1st Jan., 2017 Cat 1. (0-8) 1st. Morrie Ferncombe (8) 36pts, 2nd. Jimmy Murphy (8) 35pts. Cat 2. (9-14) 1st. Luke Swayne (10) 38pts, 2nd. Des Cleary (13) 36pts. Cat 3. (15-18) 1st. Fintan Gee (18) 38pts b2, 2nd. Tom Galvin (15) 38pts b8 Cat 4. (19+) 1st.Stephen Murphy (19) 36pts, 2nd. Eddie Stack (23) 35pts. CSS: 35pts. Christmas Day 9 Hole: Winner: Jimmy Murphy (8) 35pts.

FIXTURES Monday 2nd – Sun., 8th Jan. Club Competition 16 Hole Sfd including continuation of first round of Comeragh Oil Winter League. CAPTAIN’S DRIVE IN We had a great turnout for our drive in on Sunday afternoon. Lady Captain Mary Herlihy, Captain Pat Power, and Junior Captain Mikey Hanlon all succeeded in getting off the perfect tee shot to the applause of the assembled crowd. Following the drive-in we retired to the clubhouse where President Diarmuid Horgan introduced the captains. Pat and Mary adressed the audi-

ence with rousing speeches and were loud in their praise for the success of our two professional Seamus and Gary. Both captains are looking forward to another successful year at West Waterford and between them have a number of projects in line for their year in office. Tommy Radley was the lucky winner in the half sub draw and Colin Smith won the voucher. Ben Flynn and Pat Murray hit the jackpot in our New Year Lotto Draw. COMERAGH OIL WINTER LEAGUE What a difference a year makes. Sunshine on St. Stephen’s Day and the Comeragh Oil Winter League got off to the best possible start. With 14 teams competing we had a steady stream of contenders each day during the week all trying to get their respective teams to the top of the leaderboard. By Sunday we had reached an 80 per cent turnout and with this weeks forecast looking promising we should be very close to the 100 per cent mark by Sunday next when we hope to have round 1 completed. Round 1 continues until Sunday 8th January and we ask team captains to ensure their team members have entered the league. Thank you to everyone who has played so far and the message is to keep up the good work. Keep an eye on our website

Lismore Ladies Golf Club Winners of Autumn League 2016. Front Row Left to Right: Connie Dowd, Sheila O'Leary (Lady Captain), Joan Clancy. Back Row Left to Right: Joan Cahillane (Team Captain), Una Dowd, Helen Farrow.

for daily updates on weather conditions and possible delays due to frost. MEMBERSHIP NOW OPEN FOR 2017 – NEW MEMBERS WELCOME West Waterford is proud to be the home club of two professional golfers namely Seamus Power and Gary Hurley. Both came through the junior ranks at the club and have progressed to the professional ranks. You may have a son or daughter wishing to take up the game and we would be glad to introduce them to the junior ranks. Coaching is available if required. Our club is renowned for an excellent course ranked No. 8 in Ireland’s hidden gems, as well as a friendly atmosphere and excellent comraderie among its members. Perhaps you might consider joining West Waterford and if so please feel welcome to call along and sample the welcome, the course and the scenic surroundings. Austin or Gillian will be on hand to discuss your requirements. We look forward to welcoming you. You can contact the office at 058 43216. SEASON’S GREETINGS 2016 has been a year for West Waterford to remember with the continuing successes of our two professionals Seamus and Gary. These two golfers are certainly

keeping us in the headlines and we look forward to further success in 2017 for them. West Waterford Golf Club wants to take this opportunity to wish all its members, visitors and the media a very happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year. Thank you to everyone for their continued support throughout the year, not only on the course but in the bar and restaurant as well. We look forward to serving you all over the holiday period and also in 2017. CONDOLENCES We would like to express our sympathies to John and Margaret Joyce, to Bertie Hallahan and the Foley family, and to the Darcy family on their respective bereavements over the holiday period. May Jimmy, Damian and Mairead all rest in peace. WEST WATERFORD GOLF CLUB LADIES NOTES 1st round of Winter League ends on Sunday, 8th January, and 2nd round commences on 9th January and is also a round of singles. Prize for winner of each round. So ladies if you haven’t got that high score in for your team there is still another week, so get golfing. The competition committee would like to thank everyone for including their team name on their cards – it really makes their job so much easier. So keep up the good

work. December 9 hole – Results – Sponsor Geraldine Hickey: 1st Mary Herlihy (35) 42 points; 2nd Deirdre Ruane (18) 36 points; 3rd Joan Ronayne (35) 32 points. The first 9 hole of 2017 is sponsored by Stella Kinsella. Sponsor sheets for 9 hole and 13 hole competitions as well as Flower Sheet are on the Notice Board in Ladies Locker Room. The Captain’s Drive In took place on New Year’s Day where our new Captain’s did us proud. A great crowd turned out to cheer them on in fairly Baltic conditions. Best of luck to our new Lady Captain Mary Herlihy, new Captain Pat Power and new Juvenile Captain Michael O’Hanlon for 2017. NOLLAIG NA mBAN Women's Christmas, no cooking - sit back and relax and enjoy OUR day. Come join us on Friday 6th at 7.30 p.m. in the Clubhouse. To book phone Bridget at 087 6661867. We would like to wish all our members health and happiness for the year ahead. The Ladies Club and committee would like to offer their sincere condolences to Bertie Hallahan and family, the Darcy family, and John Joyce and family on their recent bereavements.

West Waterford Golf Club. Ray Spratt, sponsor presents the Ray Spratt Cup to the winner, Sean Ronayne. Included is Dermot Drohan, Club Captain. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

GENERAL STORT

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6th January, 2017

Remembering 1981 on the The Observer is pleased to continue its annual review of the GAA scene of 35 years ago in Waterford JANUARY ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING TIME Officers elected for 1981 Cappoquin/Affane: Chairman: Denis McGrath, Vice Chair: J. Ahearne, Secretary: Fintan Murray, Assistant Secretary: Nora Flynn, Treasurers: Tony McCarthy and C. O’Brien, PRO: Eddie Fraher. Committee: Denis McCarthy, Danny Flynn, J. Costin, Eddie O’Shea, Tom Scanlan. Sliabh gCua: Chairman: P. Butler, Secretary: J. Butler, Treasurer: Seamus Skehan, PRO: A. Hearn. Committee: N. Burke, P. McGrath, E. Power, T. Condon, M. Quinlan. Dungarvan: Chairman: Michael Lyons, Vice Chairman: Billy Kiely, Secretary: Kevin Fleming, Assistant Secretary: Liam Dwyer, Treasurer: Noel Sheehan, Membership Officer: Peter Hayes. Committee: Aidan O’Connor, Tony Ryan, Jim Mullins, Richie Harty, Jimmy Sullivan, Thomas Duggan, Pa Meehan, Peter Ferncombe, Billy Kelly, Paddy Fitzgerald. Kilrossanty: Chairman: Sean Lennon, Vice Chair: Oliver Coffey, Secretary: Tony Coffey, Treasurer: Des Prendergast. Committee: Matty Lonergan, Piery Whyte, Larry Flynn, Pat Keating. Kilgobinet: Chairman: James Walsh, Vice Chair: Michael Mernin, Secretary: Matty Fahey, Assistant Secretary: Jim Walsh, Treasurer: Sean Drohan. Geraldines: Chairman: T. O’Brien, Vice Chair: Mick Tobin, Secretary; Eddie O’Grady, Assistant Secretary: Daithi O’Brien. Committee: Paddy Kenneally, J. Hannigan, J. Connell, J. Cotter, M. Connell. Eire Og (Dungarvan): Chairman: Tom Drummy, Vice Chairman: Jimmy Maher, Secretary: Jimmy Fraher, Assistant Secretary: Lar Harte, PRO: Johnny Moore. Committee: Mickey Fraher, Alfie Egan, PJ Drummy. Colligan: Sean Tobin, Vice Chair: Michael Wall, Secretary: Anthony Walsh, Treasurer: Ollie Whelan. Committee: Pat Hickey, Eamonn Cliffe, Roger Casey, Lar Walsh, Paddy Walsh, Liam Beresford, Richie Browne, John Dunford. Faha: Chairman: Maurice Harris, Secretary: Monnie Foley, Assistant Secretary: Paddy Hurley, Treasurer: Gerry Casey. Committee: Percy Flynn, Mick Kirwan, Austin Casey, Paddy Flynn. St. Olivers: Chairman: Fr. Fitzgerald, Vice Chair: J. J. Power, Secretary: Nicky Walsh, Assistant Secretary: Justin McGrath, PRO: Johnny Ryan Committee: Paddy Kiely, William O’Keeffe, Tom Osborne, Jim Power, Mrs. P. Glavin, Richard Power, Tom Ryan, Davy Reynolds, Henry Veale, John Longan, John Browne. Stradbally: Chairman: Paddy Power, Vice Chairman: Robbie Walker, John Veale, Secretary: Michael Coffey, Assistant Secretary: Mrs. P. Fennell, Treasurer: Noel Costello, PRO: Paddy Joe Coleman. Committee: Fr. Guiry, Tom Landy, Pat Corbett, Robin Aherne, John O’Meara, Dick Clancy, Colm Barnes, Tom

Cunningham, T. Foley, David Dee, Pat Fennell, Richie Dunford, Ken Begley. St. Pats: Chairman: Martin Tobin, Vice Chair: Laurence Curran, Secretary: John Kiely, Treasurer: Sean Drohan. Committee: John Walsh, Peter Power, Fr. Fogarty, Billy Fraher, Paddy Power, Paddy McGrath, John Quinlan, John Morgan, Patsy Coffey. BOARD OFFICIALS ELECTED Western Board: Chairman: John Lyons (Tallow), Vice Chair: Denis McGrath Cappoquin/ Affane), Secretary: Vincent Mulligan (Abbeyside/ Ballinacourty), Treasurer: Paddy Fitzgerald (Dungarvan), Registrar: Seamus O’Brien (Abbeyside/Ballinacourty). County Board: Chairman: Johnny Murphy (Dungarvan), Secretary: Seamus Grant (Mount Sion), Treasurer: Davy Power (Portlaw), Registrar: John Fraher (Cappoquin/ Affane), PRO: Seamus O Braonain (Abbeyside/ Ballinacourty). SOME MOTIONS PASSED AT COUNTY CONVENTION A closed season to be put in place from December 1st to February 1st. (Portlaw). Clubs participating in County Intermediate hurling and football qualify for share of gates on the same basis of senior clubs (Kilmacthomas). County grounds be equipped with a phone and a stretcher. COLLIGAN PURCHASE HOME OF THEIR OWN Chairman of the Colligan Emmetts club Sean Tobin announced at their AGM that, with the approval of the meeting, the club will purchase their own grounds, covering approx four and a half acres. The following clubs in the Western division now either own their own field or have a long term lease: Tallow, Tourin, Ballysaggart, Shamrocks, Lismore, Cappoquin/Affane, Clashmore/ Kinsalebeg, An Rinn, Stradbally, Kilrossanty, Abbeyside / Ballinacourty, St. Mary’s and Colligan. SENIOR HURLING TRIAL Waterford’s second team, the Whites defeated the Blues by 6-11 to 3-15 in a senior hurling trial. Shamrock’s Liam Ahearne scored four goals for the winners and he was included on the County team for the National League. Joe McGrath and Ned Power were added on to the team selection body. UNDER 15 FOOTBALL Dungarvan CBS qualified for the final of Corn Mhic Chraith with a 0-12 to 2-4 over Mallow. Team: Kevin Drummy (Eire Og), David Hourigan, Michael Prendergast (Kilrossanty), Martin Curran (St. Pat’s); Pat Walsh (Abbeyside), Pat Power (St. Pats), John Fitzgerald (Dungarvan); Peter Queally (Dungarvan), Seamus Mansfield (Dungarvan); Morrie Ferncombe (Dungarvan), Paudie Casey (Stradbally), Fintan O’Brien (Stradbally); Johnny McGrath (An Ghaeltacht/ Brickeys), Joe Hart (Eire Og), Dermot O’Callaghan (Dungarvan). Sub: Ger Collins (Abbeyside/Ballinacourty) for David Hourigan).

Mount Sion Waterford and Munster Senior Hurling Champions 1981. Back L-R: Gary Cunningham, Eamonn Kehoe, Denis Connolly, Sean Walsh, Richie Murphy, Pat Kelly, Anthony Cooney, Jim Cuddihy, Terry Butler, Karl Heffernan, Eamonn Ryan, Pat Ryan, Liam Slevin.. Front L-R: Jim Greene, Denis Shefflin, Martin Geary, Paul Kiely, Pat McGrath, Brendan Knox, George O'Grady, Billy Power, Willie Heylin, Tommy Cusack, Stephen Greene, Pat O'Grady. SLIABH gCUA WIN WESTERN JUNIOR FOOTBALL LEAGUE FINAL Sliabh gCua 5-8; Sean Phobail 1-2. Sliabh gCua Team: Finbarr Harrington; Peter McGrath, M. Hearne, Eamonn Power; Declan Kiely, M. Butler, Tom Condon; J. Butler, G. Butler; J. Condon, J. Dalton, P. Hearn; L.Whelan, A. Butler, J. M. Power. Sub: P. Tobin. NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE DRAW IN LONGFORD Waterford 2-5; Longford 1-8. Team: Tom Hunt (John Mitchels); David Kirwan (Stradbally), Michael Coffey (Stradbally), Nicky Hayes (Bonmahon); John Moloney (Ballinacourty), James Keane (Stradbally), Denis Conway (Ardmore); Michael Goodwin (Tramore), Tom Hayes (Bonmahon); Eddie Nolan (Roanmore), Sean De Paor (An Rinn), John Hennessy (Ardmore); Sean Aherne (Stradbally), Noel Conway (Ardmore), Piery Whyte (Kilrossanty). Subs: Michael Hackett (Affane), Richard Dunford (Stradbally), Roger O’Halloran (Clashmore/ Kinsalebeg), James Kelly (Clashmore/Kinsalebeg), Stephen Breen (Ferrybank), Michael Kavanagh (Dunhill).

FEBRUARY MODELIGO AGM Chair: David Fitzgerald, Vice Chair: Nicky O’Donovan, Secretary : Vincent O’Donovan, Assistant Secretary and PRO: Maurice Tobin, Treasurer: Billy Nugent, Committee: J. O’Neill, M. O’Neill, M, Twohigh, P. O’Donnell, S.Troy, P. Troy, M. Foley, G. O Donovan. NEW STYLE CHAMPIONSHIPS With the abolition of the losers groups in both the senior hurling and football championships, a preliminary round featuring all the senior and intermediate teams in the county will be played.The winners of this round will take part in the senior championship and the losers will play in the intermediate grade. The teams were graded before the draw.

NATIONAL HURLING LEAGUE All Ireland champions Galway beat Waterford by 2-13 to 1-10 in Ballinasloe. Waterford Scorers: Eddie Rockett 1-0, Pat McGrath 0-3, Mossie Walsh and Pat Curran 0-2 each, Tomas Maher, Tom Casey and Mossie Whelan 0-1 each. Team: John Power; Seamie Hannon, Joe Murphy, John Galvin; Liam O’Brien, Pat McGrath, Pat Ryan; Mossie Walsh, Mossie Whelan; Tomas Maher, Pat Daly, Tom Casey; Eddie Rockett, Liam Ahearne, Pat Curran. Subs: Declan Fitzpatrick for Liam Ahearne, Pat Egan for Pat Daly, Jimmy Hennebry for Declan Fitzpatrick. SAM MELBOURNE MUSEUM Organised by County Bord Na nOg, the Sam Melbourne Museum visited the Friary Hall in Dungarvan which was the day after the Stardust Fire in Dublin. The history of the GAA from 1884 was on display including 250 hurleys and those used by John Keane, Nicky Rackard, Diamond Hayden and the legendary Christy Ring. Sam Melbourne started collecting material for his museum in 1935. O’HALLORAN’S FIELD The Clashmore / Kinsalebeg club had the use of the best football field in the parish for 1981, O’Halloran’s field, enabling the club to proceed with the development on the new club pitch and have everything in readiness for 1982. The goal posts were moved there and the O’Halloran family were thanked for their generous gesture. KEANELAND CUP FINAL Tallow 0-9; Ballyduff Upper 0-5. Ballyduff led the county champions at half time by 0-4 to 0-2. Scorers Tallow: Pat Daly 0-3, Seamus Treacy and Kieran Ryan 0-2 each, Connie Curley and Tom Doyle 0-1 each. Ballyduff Scorers: Mossie Walsh 0-5, Liam Power 1-0. JIM GREENE RETIRES Mt. Sion’s Jim Greene retired from inter county hurling at the beginning of 1981. The 32 year old played at centre back for years before moving to attack where his

quick pick up off the ground with his hand created many a goal. CARRIGLEA MINOR HURLERS Carriglea’s application to the western board for affiliation in minor hurling was accepted. This brought to five the number of minor teams in the urban area, Carriglea, Brickeys, Dungarvan, Eire Og and Abbeyside. KILMACTHOMAS V.C. WIN Kilmacthomas 6-10; St. Paul’s College 2-3. Kilmac qualified for the semi final of the Munster vocational schools junior football championship against St. Pauls College in a game played in Waterford. Jim Burke and Paul Weldon scored first half goals for the winners and on the restart Weldon, Ned Power, Mossie Quinn and James Tobin caused many problems for St. Pauls. In defence, Tom Behan, John O’Regan and Maurice Cahill had fine games while up front the scoring honours went to Jim Burke who had a personal tally of 4-3. LATE JOHN CROTTY The Kilrossanty club lost one of its greatest players, mentors and administrators with the death of John Crotty. John was on the club’s junior football team that won the 1937 county championship and on the 1939 senior football winning side. John also served as a county senior football selector. TRANSFERS TO DATE Dungarvan to Eire Og: John Power, Dungarvan to Tallow: David Creed, Shamrocks to Tallow: Kevin Tobin, Ballyduff to Old Parish: Maurice McNamara, Cappoquin to Lismore: Brendan Prendergast, St. Marys/ Sliabh gCua to Abbeyside/ Ballinacourty: Albert Burke. Lismore to Ballysaggart: Brian Shanahan, Brickey Rangers to Villierstown and Geraldines: Michael Power. LATE RALLY WINS POINTS FOR WATERFORD Waterford 4-13; Limerick 5-6 Waterford senior hurlers turned an eight point deficit into a four point advantage in the final five minutes of play in this NHL game at the Fraher Field on Sunday, 22nd February.

Waterford Scorers: Tom Casey 1-9, Pat Daly 2-0, Liam Ahearne 1-0, Pat Curran 0-3, Tomas Maher 0-1. WEST WATERFORD PRIMARY SCHOOL BOARD The Schools board was formed at a meeting in Dungarvan CBS. The following officers were elected: Chairman: Bro. Dormer, Vice Chair: Ned Power, Secretary: Tony Ryan, Treasurer: James Bennett. The following schools were represented: Dungarvan CBS (Bro. Hickey), Ballinameela (Michael Culloo), Modeligo (Micheal Phelan), Villierstown (Margaret Cunningham), Aglish (Eamonn Stack), Glenbeg/ Carriglea (Billy McCarthy), Lismore (Sean Prendergast), Coolnasmear / Kilbrien (John Kiely), Touraneena (Tom Condon), Tallow (Billy Sheehan). LATE RAYMOND O’BRIEN The news of the death of Tallow’s 23 year old outstanding hurler and football Ray O’Brien was received with a profound regret by all who knew him. Ray played for the county in both codes in minor, under 21 and senior and he was regarded as one of the most skilful players to ever grace the playing fields of Waterford. BEST IN MUNSTER The Munster Council presented the Abbeyside/Ballinacourty club with an award for producing the best club history book in the province for 1980.

MARCH MINOR FOOTBALLERS DRAW Special Munster Minor Football Competition. Venue: Stradbally. Waterford 2-4; Tipperary 1-7. Waterford: Tom Brennan; John Troy, J. Maher, K. Cliffe; Kevin Power, Michael Collins, J. O’Mahony; Tom O’Halloran, Nicky Connors; S. Behan, E. O’Brien, D. Purcell; D. Coffey, D. Coleman, J. Grace. Subs: M. Power, D. Lawton, T. Curran, M. Veale, D. French. Referee: Tom Cunningham (Stradbally). (Continued on page 7)

GAA

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6th January, 2017

GAA scene in the Déise (Continued from page 6) BRICKEY SOCIAL 1980 County intermediate football winning selectors Jack Cooney, Paddy Joe McGrath, Patsy Murray and team coach Frankie Ryan were presented with plaques at the Brickey social. Awards were also presented to John Joe Sheehan and Johnny Sweeney for their dedication to the club during the year. NHL: HURLERS DRAW WITH OFFALY Offaly 1-12; Waterford 2-9. Played at the Fraher Field, Waterford led by three points before Offaly snatched a draw with a similar tally. Waterford Scorers: Stephen Breen 1-2, Pat McGrath 1-1, Tom Casey 0-3, Tomas Maher 0-2, Pat Daly 0-1. In a tribute to their team mate Ray O’Brien, the Waterford players wore black armbands. CBS GO UNDER IN MUNSTER FINAL Corn Mhic Chraith, Under 15 Football Hospital, Limerick 1-10; Dungarvan CBS 1-2. Dungarvan CBS’ ambition to capture this Munster title ended in failure at Cahir when the inability to capitalise on first half chances proved too costly in the end. BOOK ON CHRISTY RING Val Dorgan’s book on Cork’s greatest hurler Christy Ring was launched and was a big hit with hurling followers all over the country. STRADBALLY BEAT KERRY CHAMPIONS Stradbally 3-3; Gneeveguilla 0-11. The Stradbally club created football history when they travelled to Killarney and defeated Kerry champions Gneeveguilla in the semi-final of the Munster Senior club football championship to qualify for the Provincial final against All- Ireland champions St. Finbarrs. Stradbally prepared well for the game under the guidance of Alo Curran and John Veale. Not since 1957 has any Waterford team defeated a Kerry team. Stradbally led at half-time by 1-3 to 0-4. Stradbally: Ollie Carroll; David Kirwan, Robin Aherne, Pat Clancy; Alo Curran, Tom Aherne, Joe Roche; Pat Power, Michael Coffey, Tom Landy; Richie Dunford, Colm Barnes; Sean Aherne, James Keane, Eoin O’Brien. Subs: Bill Dunford, Tom Considine. Stradbally Scorers: Tom Considine 2-0, James Keane 1-0, Eoin O’Brien, Richie Dunford, Tommy Aherne 0-1 each.

Man of the Match: Tommy Aherne. The historic victory was recorded in film by Virgil Power and Liam Clancy. PHELAN CUP RESULTS Kilrossanty 2-13; Brickeys 0-0. Tallow 2-10; Ardmore 3-4. CLUB-SCHOOL LIASON At a meeting of the Ballinameela club it was decided to donate 100 pounds to Ballinameela National School to promote both hurling and football in the school. 1981 PANEL OF REFEREES Jim Joe Landers (Affane/ Cappoquin), Pat Moore (Abbeyside/ Ballinacourty), John Moore (Eire Og), Noel O’Sullivan (Portlaw), Tommy Power (Butlerstown), Charlie Brown (An Rinn), Johnny Sheehan (Affane/ Cappoquin), Tommy Keating (Colligan), Liam Dwyer (Dungarvan), Tom Cunningham (Stradbally), Pa Walsh

(Kilrossanty), Richie Ormonde (Lismore), James Bennett (Ballysaggart), John O’Regan (Kilmacthomas), Tommy Hennessy (Kill), John Walsh (Tramore), Declan Hennessy (Ardmore), Paddy Joe Ryan (Fourmilewater/Nire), John O’Dwyer (Clashmore/ Kinsalebeg), Ned Power, Billy Sheehan and Eddie Cunningham (Tallow), Mickey Frager (Cappoquin), Tom Crotty (Fourmilewater/ Nire). 1984 HURLING FINALS AT THURLES For the first time since 1937 the All Ireland hurling finals will move from their traditional setting of Croke Park to Thurles in 1984. This was decided to celebrate the centenary of the GAA which was founded in Thurles in Hayes Hotel in 1884. This was decided at the Annual GAA congress in Killarney. TALLOW MAN APPOINTED NEW DEVELOPMENT OFFICER Tallow player Pat Daly was announced as one of the three new GAA development officers for Croke Park along with Lorcan O’Rourke and Fintan Lawlor from Offaly. HURLERS QUALIFY FOR NHL QUARTER FINAL Waterford 4-12; Wexford 3-10. Waterford hurlers with a dashing display of spirited hurling put relegation worries firmly behind them and qualified for a quarter final encounter with Clare by virtue of a thrilling victory over Wexford in Nowlan Park Kilkenny. Following fine games against Limerick and Offaly, the county hurlers deserve their place in the top flight of the league for the 1981/82 season and it was no wonder that they were chaired off the field by their large following at the final whistle. The Deise team led by 2-10 to 1-6 at half-time with the goals being scored by Jim Greene and Tomas Maher. Wexford reduced the deficit to 2-12 to 2-10 with 57 minutes played but urther goals by Mossie Walsh and Pat Curran kept the initiative with the winners and kept a gallant Wexford fifteen at bay. Waterford Scorers: Pat McGrath 06, Tomas Maher and Pat Curran and Mossie Walsh 1-1 each, Jim Greene 10, Tom Casey 0-2, Pat Daly and Stephen Breen 0-1 each. Waterford Team: John Power (Dunhill); John Galvin (Portlaw), Joe Murphy (Dunhill), Seamie Hannon (Ballyduff); Liam O’Brien, Capt, (Tallow), Pat McGrath (Mt. Sion), Pat Ryan (Mt. Sion); Mossy Walsh (Ballyduff), Mossy Whelan (Portlaw); Tomas Maher (St. Finbarrs), Pat Curran (Cappoquin), Tom Casey (Dunhill); Stephen Breen (Ferrybank), Pat Daly (Tallow), Jim Greene (Mt. Sion). Sub: Kieran Ryan (Tallow) for Pat Ryan. Referee: George Ryan (Tipperary).

TRANSFER NEWS Albert Burke from the Sliabh gCua/ St. Mary’s club has transferred to Abbeyside/ Ballinacourty for the 1981 championships.

APRIL A SAD WEEKEND FOR WATERFORD HURLING The tragic news of the death of two members of the Waterford under 21 hurling team and team official Tony Forristal came as a shock wave to GAA supporters all over the county as they learned that as a mark of respect that the NHL quarterfinal at Thurles between Waterford and Clare had been postponed.

Sliabh gCua/St. Mary’s County Junior Football Champions 1981. Back Row: Michael Quinlan (Selector), Fr. Sean Nugent, Declan White, Gerald Butler, Tom Condon, James Butler, Ned Power, Anthony Butler, John Fitzpatrick, Eamon Power, Roger McGrath, Michael Hickey, Tom Power, Paddy Whelan, Bob Keane (First Aid). Front Row: Pierce Butler (Chairman), John Dalton, Pat Hearn, Mike Butler, Declan Fitzpatrick, James Condon, Declan Kiely, John Fraher, Mike Hearn, Finbarr Harrington.

Many people did not know of the terrible outcome of the crash at Piltown in Kilkenny late on Saturday night last as they were unaware of the fact that the dispute at RTE had been settled and that normal news bulletins were again in operation and as a result the dreadful news was learned by many as they arrived for early masses locally. On last Saturday, April 4th, 1981. Waterford under 21 selectors had arranged a challenge game against Clare with the venue being Tipperary Town. Mt. Sion’s Tony Forristal gathered up the jerseys from county secretary Seamus Grant before setting out for Tipperary in O’Hara’s bus. Fate works in strange ways and due to a misunderstanding the mini bus failed to collect the Portlaw players on the panel for the fixture. Also the senior players on the under 21 team were not playing with the NHL game scheduled for the following day. Players from the Western division had travelled separately to the game and the Eastern contingent watched the Eurovision song contest and some of the soccer on the T.V. after the match. At around 11 p.m., the mini bus in which they were travelling home struck a stationary vehicle at Piltown in County Kilkenny resulting in the deaths of three of the occupants and the remainder of the occupants were subsequently detained in Ardkeen Hospital, Waterford for observation and treatment. County secretary Seamus Grant received the shock news around midnight and at once went to Ardkeen Hospital, accompanied by Munster Council Rep. Seamus Power and county youth officer Phil Fanning and as the full story unfolded they had the never easy task of contacting families and relatives. Those killed in the crash were Jimmy Costelloe, a team member from the Butlerstown club. The Costelloe family is one of the best known hurling families from the Butlerstown area as his brothers Michael, Mossie and Paddy are key figures in their senior team. Martin O’Grady from the Mount Sion club was a member of the

under 21 squad but was on the injured list, but nevertheless travelled with the team. His two brothers Georgie and Pat are well known inter-county hurlers and his late father also played for Waterford. In the senior hurling championship v Cappoquin last year, Martin showed that he was a player of distinct promise. Tony Forristal played a key role in helping Mt. Sion win several senior hurling county titles, including the 1969, 1972 and 1974 and 1975 titles. He was a defender cast in the traditional mould. Last year he took over as senior trainer in the Mt. Sion club of which he was such a valued member. When players are representing Waterford, they are representing us all. Thus, Tony Forristal, Martin O’Grady and Jimmy Costelloe died whilst on duty for our county and they will forever hold an extra special place in the hearts and minds of all associated with Waterford hurling. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam. UNDER 16 HURLING THRILLER IN LISMORE West Waterford 0-11; East Cork 1-7 (AET). West Waterford: Pat Curran (Stradbally), M. O’Donnell (St. Olivers), Conor O’Brien (Stradbally), Pat Ryan (Ballysaggart/ Lismore); Chris Meehan (Dungarvan), Pat Power (St. Pats), Tomas Curran (Dungarvan), (capt.); Peter Quealy (Dungarvan), Kieran O’Brien (Tallow); Morrie Ferncombe (Dungarvan), Patsy Coffey (St. Pats), Kevin Kilkenny (St. Olivers); Sean Dee (Stradbally), Tomas Mac Chraith (Gaeltacht), Colin Quarry (Dungarvan). Sub: Liam Ryan (Ballysaggart/Lismore) for Sean Dee. WATERFORD WIN AGAIN NHL QUARTER FINAL Waterford 3-15; Clare 1-14. Waterford senior hurlers turned in another dashing display of spirited typical Waterford hurling at Semple Stadium Thurles (Sunday, April 12th) and in the process recorded a fully deserved seven point victory over Clare to qualify for a semi-final game with Cork. Assisted by a Tom Casey goal

from a 21 yard free, Waterford led by 1-7 to 0-9 at half time. The key scores in the second half were a brace of goals by Jim Greene in the 52nd and in the 58th minutes. Waterford Scorers: Jim Greene 2-2, Tom Casey 1-6, Tomas Maher and Pat McGrath 0-2 each, Pat Curran, Pat Ryan and Pat Daly 0-1 each. Waterford: John Power, John Galvin, Seamie Hannon; Liam O’Brien (Capt.), Pat McGrath, Pat Ryan; Mossie Walsh, Jimmy Hennebry; Tomas Maher, Pat Curran, Tom Casey; Stephen Breen. Pat Daly, Jim Greene. Sub. Declan Fitzpatrick for Jimmy Hennebry. ALL IRELAND CHAMPIONS WIN IN STRADBALLY Munster Club Senior Football Final St. Finbarrs 3-15; Stradbally 1-8. Playing against the wind, Stradbally trailed the firm favourites St. Finbarrs by 0-10 to 0-2. Overall the Reds never gave up in a special occasion for the club at Fr. Cummins Field and they were rewarded with scores by Eoin O’Brien, Alo Curran and Colm Barnes while Sean Aherne scored a well deserved goal for the home team. Overall, the Stradbally club can be pleased with their efforts in the Munster championship and it was no disgrace to be beaten by the current All Ireland Champions. The Barrs goals were scored by household names Jimmy Barry Murphy, John Allen and Dave Barry. Stradbally: Ollie Carroll; David Kirwan, Robin Aherne, Michael Coffey; Alo Curran, Tom Aherne, Joe Roche; James Keane, Pat Power; Tom Landy, Richie Dunford, Eoin O’Brien; Sean Aherne, Tom Considine, Colm Barnes. Sub: Bill Dunford for Tom Landy. Arrangements for the game were top class, the pitch was in excellent condition and the teams were paraded by the youthful Seafield Pipe Band. JOHN O’DWYER STARS FOR CLASHMORE/ KINSALEBEG John O’Dwyer, the former Cavan and Waterford forward who was a member of the Ballinacourty team that won senior titles in 1978

and 1979 starred for Clashmore/ Kinsalebeg in their 5-9 to 0-3 win over Ballinameela in the western junior football championship. CORK HALT WATERFORD’S RUN NHL Semi Final: Cork 1-19; Waterford 2-10. The standard of hurling was as good as one would wish to see, especially in a classic first half. When the half time whistle sounded the large attendance to a man cheered both teams from the field. This game was Waterford’s best display to date against the best team they have played this year. Waterford led by a point at half-time. The Waterford team was the same as the game against Clare bar Noel Connors and Mossie Whelan replacing Pat Curran and Jimmy Hennebry in the starting line up.

MAY SENIOR FOOTBALL PRELIMINARY ROUND WINNERS PLAY SENIOR LOSERS PLAY INTERMEDIATE Kilrossanty 1-6; Dungarvan 0-3. Kilrossanty: J. Mulhearne; T. Pender, P. Walsh, J. Foley; P. Connors, P. Keating. P. Behan; N. Tobin, P. Pender; J. Mulhearne, P. Whyte, G. Walsh; P. Hayes, T. Keating, M. Walsh. Sub: J. Maher. Dungarvan: M. Flynn; S. Kelleher, A. Curran, R. Harty; T. Sheehan, P. Meehan, L. Crotty; J. Meehan, M. Sheehan; K. Foley, T. Power, T. Duggan; P. Healy, T. Murphy, J. Healy. Subs: M. Burke for K. Foley, K. Foley for T. Duggan. Referee: Jimmy Moran (Kilgobinet). Ballinacourty 1-5; Roanmore 1-3. Ballinacourty: D. Looby; E. Cashin, M. O’Flynn, F. Shields; J. Burns, J. Moloney, J. Power; M. Hanrahan, R. Hanrahan; S. Fitzgerald, A. Burke, J. Mulligan; P. Enright, T. Whelan, M. Kiely. Subs: S. Feehan and R. Cashin. The Roanmore goalie was former Ballinacourty player Brendan Hogan. (Continued on page 8)

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Remembering 1981 on the (Continued from Page 7) Referee: Tom Cunningham (Stradbally). Affane 0-10; Kill 0-4 Affane: D. Flynn; P. McCarthy, L. Denn, J. Crotty; B. Murray, P. Egan, S. Denn; M. Phelan, D. Murray; T. Scanlan, E. McLoughlin, B. Hennessy; E. McGrath, M. Hackett, J. Mason. Sub: D. O’Connor for M. Phelan. Referee: P. J. Ryan (Fourmilewater). Clashmore/Kinsalebeg 3-19; Bonmahon 0-4. Clashmore/Kinsalebeg: T. O’Keeffe; J. O’Halloran, B. Griffin, R. Hynes; Sean Allen, R. Halloran, D. Salmon; V. O’Rourke, E. Beresford; J. Kelly, J. O’Dwyer, J. Whelan; E. Halloran, L. O’Rourke, M. Shalloe. Subs: M. Curran, Seamus Allen. OTHER RESULTS Ardmore 3-7; Ring 0-1. Mt. Sion 3-5; Fenor 0-9. Ferrybank 1-16; Ballyduff Lower 1-3. John Mitchels 5-7; Ballyduff Upper 2-10. Kilmacthomas 4-2; Brickeys 0-9. Ballinameela 2-11; De La Salle 0-6. Killure/Ballytruckle 4-7; Shamrocks 1-2. Dunhill 1-9; Butlerstown 1-5. Tramore beat Nire and Rathgormack beat Gaultier. JUNIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP Kilgobinet 2-7; Colligan Emmetts 0-5 Kilgobinet: Peter Power, Brian O’Connor, Mike Veale, Eddie Elstead; E. Phelan, M. Walsh, J. Walsh; Paddy Cummins, Martin McCarthy; N. Drohan, S. Barron, Declan Barron; Kevin Barry, Tony Butler, Pat McCarthy. Subs: Matty Fahey, L. Foley. Emmetts: Anthony Walsh; Mossie Cliffe, Pat Hickey, Lar Beresford; John Dunford, Liam Beresford, Jimmy Beresford; Kevin Cliffe, Ollie Whelan; Thomas O’Grady, Paudie Flynn, Monnie Hickey; Lar Walsh, John Ahearne, Roger Casey. Sub: Richie Browne. Referee: Pat Moore (Abbeyside/Ballinacourty). RESULT: MUNSTER MINOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP Cork 7-22; Waterford 1-2. BALLYSAGGART PITCH OFFICIALLY OPEN Ballysaggart’s new club grounds were officially opened before a senior hurling tournament game between Waterford and Wexford on Sunday, 10th May, 1981. The new ground is named Pairc Mochuda and the field was formerly owned by the land commission. The guiding light in purchasing and developing the field is club chairman Fr. Sean Keating. The tournament game finished Waterford 1-7; Wexford 0-10. Waterford Scorers: Liam Ahearne 1-1, Pat Bennett 0-5, Eddie Rockett 0-1. Waterford: P. Cox (Portlaw); Pat Egan (Cappoquin), Nicky Cashin (Abbeyside), D. Twomey (Erin’s Own); Tom Condon (St. Marys), John Dalton (St. Marys),Kieran Ryan (Tallow); Gerry Maguire (Erins Own), Jimmy Hennebry (Portlaw); Eddie Rockett (Portlaw), Noel Connors (Passage), Pat Bennett (Ballysaggart); Liam Ahearne (Shamrocks), Pat Daly (Tallow), Patsy O’Keeffe (Ballinameela). Sub: Tom Shanahan (Lismore) for Gerry Maguire).

Referee: Jim Joe Landers (Cappoquin). SENIOR HURLING PRELIMINARY ROUND Winners Play Senior - Losers Play Intermediate CAPPOQUIN’S FITNESS AND SKILL DECISIVE Cappoquin 2-11; St. Molerans 1-2. Scorers Cappoquin: Michael Hackett 1-2 James Crotty 1-1, Denis McCarthy 0-3, Dermot Murray 0-2, Brian Hennessy, Fintan Murray and Kevin McCarthy 0-1 each. Cappoquin: Eddie McGrath; James Mason, Sham Denn, Jasper McCarthy; Eugene McLoughlin, Pat Egan, Michael Brackett; Brian Murray, Dermot Murray; Tom Scanlon, Michael Hackett, Brian Hennessy; Pat Morrissey, Kevin McCarthy, Fintan Murray. Sub: Denis McCarthy for Tom Scanlon. St. Mollerans: H. Diffley; G. Landers, A. O’Neill, L. Dowley; P. Dunne, T. Reade, M. Torpey; P. Dowley, B. White; David Dowley, Michael Maye, Michael Mulcahy; J. Flynn, Michael Dowley, Sean Reade. Referee: Jimmy Moran (Kilgobinet). Lismore 1-7; Shamrocks 1-3 Lismore: Denny Buckley; T. Landers, Patsy Quinn, J. Duggan; T. Shanahan, Billy Ormonde, P. Kiernan; D. Landers, J. Cashman; W. Donnell, Billy Cunningham, B. Landers; D. Donnell, L. Buckley, Dave Landers. Subs: P. Morrissey for B. Landers, Niall Daly for L. Buckley, E. Fenton for W. Donnell. Shamrocks: P. Dalton; J. Ahearne, Billy Tobin, N. Tobin; G. Farrell, Ted Harnedy, W. Moloney; S. Harnedy, Liam Ahearne; D. Harnedy, John Michael Kelly, Michael Neville; O. Ahearne, G. O’Neill, D. Foley. Referee: Jim Joe Landers (Cappoquin). Butlerstown 4-11; Dungarvan 0-11. Butlerstown: Tucker Power; Francy Lonergan, P. O’Brien, M. Donnelly; G. Power, M. Costello, J. Lucas; M. Power, M. Crowley; P. Daniels, M. Costelloe, T. O’Connor; M. Whelan, M. Fitzgerald M. Flaherty. Subs: P. Crowley for T. O’Connor, G. Walsh for P. O’Brien, M. Spillane for M. Fitzgerald. Dungarvan: Patsy Hackett; Tony Lonergan, Jimmy Sullivan, Denis Crotty; Thomas Duggan, Pa Meehan, Lenny Crotty; Martin Sandford, Martin Sheehan; Peter Healy, Jimo Meehan, Dave Long; Michael Sheehan, Eddie Sheehan, Seanie Flynn. Subs: Jimmy Healy for Michael Sheehan;Deckie Egan for Eddie Sheehan. Referee: Pat Moore (Abbeyside). Abbeyside 0-14; Ardmore 1-3. Abbeyside: Humphrey Kelleher; Rogie Cashin, Seamus Feehan, Felix Shields; Seamus Fitzgerald, Nicky Cashin, Joe Powwer; Eddie Cashin, Marty Kiely; Jimmy Healy, Albert Burke, John Mulligan; Pat Enright, Michael Hanrahan, Johnny Burns. Sub: J. Organ. Ardmore: John Colbert; Tom Morrissey, Matty Cronin, John Prendergast; V. O’Connor, Michael Cronin, Declan Cunningham; Denis Conway, Frankie North; Noel Conway, M. Hennessy, Liam Lynch; Matt Nolan, Pat

Ballyduff Intermediate Football County Champions 1981. Back Row Left to Right: D. Feeney, P. Flynn, S. Hannon, M. Quirke, Mossie Walsh, J. Beecher, J. Quirke, R. Walsh, L. Power, D. Berry, S. Hyland, E. Hickey, M. Beecher. Front Row Left to Right: Seamus Daly, Michael Walsh, D. Flanagan, J. Hannon, H. O’Keeffe (Captain), M. Geary, E. Geary, Shamie Daly, L. Drislane, B. McNamara. Prendergast, Liam Lincoln. Referee: Eddie Cunningham (Tallow). OTHER RESULTS Portlaw 2-13; Ballyduff Upper 56. Fourmilewater 1-2; Tallow 4-18. Tourin 2-2; Portlaw 2-13. Ferrybank 1-3; Mount Sion 4-15. Stradbally 0-1; St. Mary’s Touraneena 4-14. Ballygunner 0-3; Roanmore 1-3. Clonea 0-4; Dunhill 6-8. COUNTY FOOTBALLERS V ST. FINBARRS Waterford 1-8; St. Finbarrs 1-8. Waterford: J. McGrath; David Kirwan, Domhnall O Murchadha, Nicky Hayes; John Moloney, James Keane, Michael Coffey; Richie Dunford, Michael Goodwin; Piery Whyte, Vinny Murphy, Michael Kavanagh; Tom Keating, Michael Hanrahan, Michael Hackett. Subs: Michael Hogan, T. Whelan, James Kelly. NEW RULES The new football rules in respect of scores having to be kicked except when the ball is in flight comes into force on Sunday, May 24th. LISMORE CBS WIN UNDER 15 SOLO CUP MUNSTER HURLING FINAL Lismore CBS 3-10; Colaiste Mhuirre Cobh 1-2. Lismore Panel: Ian Barry, Capt, Tomas Hancock, Paul Curley, Mark Murphy, Bernard O’Hara, Frank Ryan and Martin Allen (all Tallow). Brendan Crowley, Seamus Prendergast, Billy Lee, Michael Twomey, J. O’Donnell, Dan Geoghegan, Brendan Lawton, Gerard Sheehan, Frank Power, Brendan Sullivan, Mark Feeney (all Lismore). Eoin Hickey (Ballyduff), Pat Ryan, Pat Roche, Vincent Meagher (all Ballysaggart), John Lynch (Araglen). DUNGARVAN CBS WIN UNDER 16 KINNANE CUP MUNSTER HURLING TITLE Dungarvan CBS 5-3 Scariff (Clare) 3-6. Dungarvan CBS Team: Pat Curran (Stradbally); Ger Moran (Dungarvan), Chris Meehan, Pat Mulcahy (Eire Og); Martin Houlihan (Dungarvan), Pat Power (St. Pats), Tony Hamilton (Dungarvan); Tomas Curran (Dungarvan), Seamus Mansfield (Dungarvan), Patsy Coffey (St. Pats), Peter

Quealy (Dungarvan), Conor O’Brien (Stradbally); Morrie Ferncombe (Dungarvan), Colin Quarry (Dungarvan), Jim Collins (Abbeyside). Subs: Brendan Morrissey (Touraneena), Fintan O’Brien (Stradbally), David Burke (Dungarvan), Johnny McGrath (Brickey Rangers).

JUNE WATERFORD BOW OUT TO SHARPER CLARE Clare 3-14; Waterford 2-14. Clare ended Waterford’s senior hurling championship hopes for 1981 in Thurles when they adapted much better to difficult underfoot conditions to earn a narrow but deserved victory. On the day it must be accepted that Clare were faster to the ball and also had less messing with it when they gained possession and they hunted and harassed with much more commitment over the full seventy minutes. The half-time score was Waterford 0-7; Clare 0-5. Waterford led by 2-14 to 2-13 with a 68th minute Stephen Breen palmed goal but Clare quickly counter attacked. Gerry McInerney cut across the goal, put the ball in the air and caught it again but no whistle sounded. The ball went to Declan Coote and he lashed it to the net and now it was Clare in front by 3-13 to 2-14 and a final point earned the Banner county a famous victory. FEILE SKILLS COUNTY COMPETITION Fintan O’Brien (Stradbally) 57 pts. 2. Paul Curley (Tallow) 52 pts. 3. Conor Ahearne (Ferrybank) 49 pts. The judge was Dungarvan’s Tom Cunningham and the goalie was Anthony Walsh from Colligan. UNDER 16 INTER DIVISIONAL MUNSTER HURLING SEMI FINAL West Waterford 4-5; Mid Tipperary 0-6. West Waterford goal scorers were Patsy Coffey, Morrie Ferncombe, Tommy McGrath and Kevin Kilkenny. RICE CUP FINAL THRILLER Lismore CBS 1-7; Dungarvan CBS 2-4.

Because of transport problems many of the Dungarvan CBS boys took out their bicycles to get to Cappoquin for this novel pairing in the Rice Cup under 14 hurling final. The game fittingly ended in a draw with both sides feeling they could have clinched the title at the first attempt. Best for Lismore were Tomas Hancock, Pat Ryan, Frank Power and Paul Curley with Morrie Ferncombe, Fintan O’Brien, Peter Queally, Johnny McGrath and Dermot O’Callaghan shining for Dungarvan. SENIOR FOOTBALLERS DRAW Waterford 0-10; Limerick 0-10. It took the most earnest earnest of the Waterford senior footballers to gain a draw their in their first round Munster championship game at Limerick. Half- time score was Waterford 0-5 Limerick 0-4. MUNSTER HANDBALL WINNERS Kilgobinet pair Pat McGrath and Deckie Mulcahy captured the Masters Doubles Munster Handball Title in the Cappagh alley in Co. Limerick. This is the first time that this title has ben won by Waterford players. CLUBS NOT REGISTERED As requested by the county board registrar John Fraher stated that Kilmacthomas, De La Salle Minors, Roanmore, John Mitchels, Stradbally, Fourmilewater, Ardmore and Carriglea were still not registered for 1981. UNDER 14 ‘A’ WESTERN FOOTBALL FINAL Abbeyside 2-6; Tallow 0-2. Abbeyside: Pat McGrath; Sean McGrath, Ben Organ, Sean Dower; Kieran Doyle, Nigel Doherty, John Melody; Bosco Mahony, Michael Coleman; Mark Reynolds, David Walsh, Sean Wall, Capt; Kevin Regan, Benny Hogan, Joe Riordan. Abbeyside drew 1-3 each with De La Salle in the county final UNDER 14 WESTERN ‘B’ FOOTBALL FINAL Clashmore/Kinsalebeg 5-6; Brickeys 0-3 Winning Team: J. Joyce; E. Baker, J. Bradley, M. Lynch; R. Flynn, K. Mansfield, P. McGrath; B. Douris, J. Fenton; J. Treacy, E. Hayes, C. Riordan; M. McGrath, P. Hogan, R. Russell. Subs: P.

Lombard, D. Collender, L. Hogan. Eastern Group side St. Marys won the county final. HISTORIC VICTORY FOR WATERFORD FOOTBALLERS FIRST EVER CUP VICTORY Waterford 5-2; Clare 2-7. It was a historic day for Waterford football in Limerick when Waterford beat Clare in the McGrath Cup final and thus captured the first ever cup to be won by a Waterford side. WATERFORD WIN FOOTBALL REPLAY Waterford 0-10; Limerick 1-4. Waterford senior footballers ended the county’s losing sequence in the Munster championship which stretches back to 1978 when they defeated Limerick in their replay game at the Fraher Field. Full credit to the players, team trainer Joe Conway and selectors Paddy Joe Coleman, Mattie Power, Denis McGrath and Tom Mooney who have all worked so hard to achieve this result. Waterford led at half time by 0-5 to 1-1. Waterford: Tom Hunt; David Kirwan, Michael Coffey, Stephen Breen; Eddie Rockett, James Keane, John Moloney; Michael Goodwin, Sean De Paor; Michael Kavanagh, James Casey, Tom Casey; Tom Keating, Michael Hackett, Pierry Whyte. Subs: Richie Dunford for Michael Goodwin, Jim McGrath for James Kelly, Pat Keating for Tom Keating. Waterford Scorers: Tom Casey 0-5 (3f), Pierry Whyte 0-3, James Kelly 0-1, Tom Keating 0-1. 1979 SARGENT CUP FINAL (Played Sunday, 14th June 1981) Portlaw 3-10; Abbeyside 3-6. RICE CUP FINAL REPLAY Lismore CBS 4-14; Dungarvan CBS 2-1. SENIOR HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP MOUNT SION TOPPLE CHAMPIONS Mount Sion 1-14; Tallow 1-10. (Continued on page 9)

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Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6th January, 2017

GAA scene in the Déise (Continued from page 8) COUNTY IHC Fourmilewater 3-12; St. Mollerans 2-11 Fourmilewater: Pat Walsh, P. J. Moore, Phil Harte, Mick Connolly; John Ryan, Pat Hally, Michael Hally; John Morgan, Willie Ryan; Paddy Joe Ryan, Richie Foley, Tom Crotty; Jim Ryan, Michael Ryan, P. McGrath. Subs: Matty Whelan for P. McGrath, T. Hallinan for M. Connolly. Referee: Tony Mansfield (Abbeyside). BACK TO REALITY MUNSTER SFC SEMI-FINAL Cork 2-18; Waterford 0-7. A week after winning the McGrath Cup final Waterford senior footballers played Cork in the Munster semi-final at the Fraher Field. As expected the Rebels powered their way to another final against Kerry. Waterford carried the game to Cork at the start of the second half scoring three points without reply and another feature from a home perspective was the excellent display of Tom Hunt in goal which included a penalty save from Dave Barry in the final quarter.

JULY LISMORE CONTEST NATIONAL FEILE NA nGAEL FINAL Lismore under 14 hurlers qualified for the final of the Division 2 Feile Na nGael hurling final in Galway against Portlaoise following wins over Kiltormer, Athenry and Gort. Bonfires greeted the Lismore team when they returned to Lismore. Earlier in the week, Lismore beat Tallow by 6-2 to 1-4 in the Grade A Western final. Panel: Dan Geoghegan, John Barry, Brendan Crowley, Michael Twomey, Martin O’Brien, Seamus Prendergast, Adrian Meagher, Frank Power, Brendan Lawton, Gerard Sheehan, Pat Roche, Brian O’Gorman, Paul Prendergast, Mark Feeney, Kieran Lawton, Owen Madden, Martin O’Keeffe, Anthony Bolger, Liam Cunningham, Michael Coughlan, Niall Power, John Madden, Patrick Sheehan, David Barry, John Tobin. SENIOR HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP PAT CURRAN GOALS SAVE CAPPOQUIN Cappoquin 3-6; Roanmore 3-6. Roanmore were 3-6 to 1-6 in front with 58 minutes played at the Fraher Field when county player Pat Curran crashed the ball to the net with 59 minutes played. Inside a minute Michael Hackett bore down on goal and under severe pressure spotted Curran to his right side coming in fast and on receipt of the sliotar he crashed it to the back of the net to salvage a draw. OTHER RESULT Dunhill 2-11; Portlaw 1-9. SENIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP Ballinameela 4-11; John Mitchels 2-5. Ballinameela: John Walsh, Pat O’Brien, M. Walsh, J. J. O’Brien; Patsy O’Keeffe, Tom O’Brien, J. McGrath; John Walsh, Lar Looby; Donal O’Connor, Eamonn Walsh, Michael Culloo; Pat Looby,

Eamonn Walsh, Richard Scally. Sub : M. Walsh for D. Connors. Mitchels: John Hunt; Joe Whelan, Robin Power, Joe Cahill; Henry Power, A. Power, Jimmy Fraher; Barry Power, Tom Gough; Ray Kirwan, Finian Murphy, D. Power; Vinny Kirwan, Sean Kelly, Tomas Whelan. Sub: Pat Morrissey. Clashmore/Kinsalebeg 2-17; Kilmacthomas 0-7. Clashmore/Kinsalebeg: Timmy O’Keeffe; Jack O’Halloran, Brendan Griffin, J. Hogan; S. Allen, Roger Hynes, Dave Salmon; Roger Halloran, Eamonn Beresford; James Kelly, John O’Dwyer, Eddie O’Halloran; Liam O’Rourke, Tony Shalloe, Michael Shalloe. Kilmacthomas: P. Dunne, M. Corkery, M. Lawlor, J. Healy; J. Troy, R. Whelan, M. Kiely; JJ Whelan, J. Coughlan; S. Behan, J. Power, P. Coughlan; E. Lawlor, P. Whelan, E. Whelan. Subs : A. Rockett, D. Lawlor, J. O’Regan. Referee: Tony Mansfield (Abbeyside). UNDER 14 COUNTY FOOTBALL FINAL REPLAY DE LA SALLE WIN REPLAY De La Salle 0-4; Abbeyside 0-2. COUNTY INTERMEDIATE HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP RESULTS De La Salle 6-9; Dungarvan 1-8. Ardmore 3-4; Shamrocks 0-7. OTHER RESULTS Ardmore 4-10; Tallow 3-4. Champions Bow Out: Tramore 212; Stradbally 3-7. CARRIGLEA MINORS MAKE WINNING DEBUT Carriglea 3-7; Abbeyside 3-1. Other Results: Tallow (holders) 4-8; Cappoquin 6-1. Stradbally 4-5; Kilrossanty 2-2. St. Olivers 11-4; Modeligo 2-0. Ballyduff 3-8; St. Marys 3-5. MINOR FOOTBALL KAY MCGRATH MAKES HISTORY Brickey 2-12 Eire Og 1-9 Brickeys were forced to commence the game with thirteen players as some of their players were late arriving at the Abbeyside venue. In order to make up the full fifteen a piece of footballing history was made when young Kay McGrath was pressed into service for the black and amber. Inspired by the Whelan brothers, Brickeys got on top after trailing at half-time by 1-4 to 0-4 and held out against a strong rally from the town club. Referee: Greg Fives (Abbeyside). SENIOR HURLING QUARTERFINAL GAMES Ballyduff Upper 1-9; Abbeyside 0-9. Scorers Ballyduff: Liam Canning 1-0, Mossy Walsh, Michael Walsh and Liam Power 03 each. Abbeyside Scorers: Nicky Cashin 0-5, Albert Burke 0-2, Pat Mulligan and John Mulligan 0-1 each. Mount Sion 4-15; Lismore 3-8. Mt. Sion Scorers: Anthony Cooney 1-6, Jim Greene 1-4, Carl Heffernan 1-2, Pat McGrath 1-0, Pat O’Grady 0-2, Pat Ryan 0-1. Lismore Scorers: Dave Landers 2-1, Billy Cunningham 1-1, Billy Landers 0-6. CAPPOQUIN WIN REPLAY Cappoquin 2-17; Roanmore 2-4. Scorers Cappoquin: Fintan

Ballinacourty Senior Football County Champions. Back Row Left to Right: Pat Enright, Rogie Cashin, Ger Looby, Michael Hanrahan, Nicky Cashin, Richie Hanrahan, Albert Burke, Jim Kiely, John Moloney, John Mulligan, Tom Whelan, Felix Shields. Middle Row Left to Right: Seamus Fitzgerald, Seamus Feehan, Jim ‘Tiger’ Kiely, Tommy Wade, Jimmy Healy, Johnny Burns, Marty Kiely, Donal Looby, Joe Power, Eddie Cashin. Front Row Left to Right: Jerome Kiely, Michael Collins, Pa McGovern, John Curran, Nicky Hannihan, Kevin Mulvihill. Murray 2-0. Michael McCarthy and Denis McCarthy 0-5 each, Pat Curran 0-3, Pat Morrissey and Brian Hennessy 0-2 each. Scorers Roanmore: Danny Murphy 2-0, Noelie Crowley, E. Cody. P. Cody and Kieran Delahunty 0-1 each. Referee: John O’Regan (Kilmacthomas). MINOR FOOTBALL Stradbally 3-15; Clashmore/Kinsalebeg 0-4. Aided by several good players from the Ring Gaeltacht, this was an impressive performance by the Stradbally minor team. OFF TO CANADA Abbeyside’s Michael O’Flynn is emigrating to Canada. Wearing the number 3 jersey, Michael won many honours with the Abbeyside club including county minor hurling and football medals in 1970, two under 21 County football titles and two senior football championships in 1978/79. He was on the county under 21 hurling team that won the Munster final in 1974. INTERMEDIATE HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP CLONEA BEST IN EXCITING CONTEST Clonea 5-8; Ardmore 3-9. Clonea intermediate hurlers won this hard fought and exciting contest played at Dungarvan and the reason for their victory was that their forwards took their scoring chances while at the other end of the field Ardmore’s inside forwards failed to hammer home their outfield advantage in the final quarter of the match. The half time score was Clonea 2-3; Ardmore 1-6. Scorers Clonea: G. Kirwan 3-1, D. Kirwan 1-2, M. O’Reilly 1-0, M. Power 0-2, B. Power, P. Moore and A. Skehan 0-1 each. Ardmore Scorers: Matty Cronin 2-2, Denis Conway 1-1, James O’Donnell 0-3, John Hennessy 0-2, Bertie Hallahan 0-1. Clonea: J. Hunt; H. Power, J. Cahill, M. Whelan; D. Hassett, J. Fraher, A. Power; M. Power, J. Walsh; H. Skehan, B. Power, P. Moore; B. O’Reilly, D. Kirwan, G. Kirwan. Ardmore: John Colbert; Thomas Morrissey, Michael Cronin, J. Prendergast; Frankie North, Pat Prenderast, Bertie Hallahan; Denis Conway, M. Hennessy; John Hennessy, James O’Donnell, V. O’Connor; Liam

Lincoln, Matty Cronin, Noel Conway. Subs: Richie Hennessy for Bertie Hallahan, F. Hallahan for Frankie North. Referee: Jimmy Moran (Kilgobinet). UNDER 14 COUNTY HURLING FINALS Grade A: Lismore 11-4; Ballygunner 5-2. Grade B: Fourmilewater 4-8; Ferrybank 4-1.

AUGUST SENIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP AFFANE BACK WITH A BANG Affane 1-7; Dunhill 1-6. Affane senior footballers bounced right back into contention for championship honours with a bang when giving one of their most spirited displays for many a long day to beat a strongly fancied Dunhill team. Affane laid the foundation for their victory in the first half aided by a very well taken goal by full forward Micheal Phelan from a pass by Michael Hackett. Dunhill wasted chances at the other end but it was two great saves by Danny Flynn that kept the favourites at bay. The winners led at the short whistle by 1-4 to 0-1. Dunhill made a good comeback in the second half with some good scores by Paddy Walsh including a goal to level the game at 1-6 each. With 59.30 on the clock sub. Kieran O’Connor broke clean through the Dunhill defence and passed to Gossy Mason who kicked the all important winning point. Affane: Danny Flynn; P. McCarthy, Lar Denn, James Crotty; Sham Denn, Pat Egan, Brian Murray; Michael Hackett, Dermot Murray; Eugene McLoughlin, Pat Curran, Brian Hennessy; Tom Scanlon, Micheal Phelan, Gossy Mason. Subs: Kieran O’Connor for Eugene McLoughlin; Eddie McGrath for Tom Scanlon. Dunhill: John Power; John Raher, Joe Murphy, J. Burns; Joe Murphy, Martin Murray, Willie Moore; John Grogan, Michael Kavanagh; Liam Daniels, Tom Casey, Tom Moore; Rob Power; Paddy Walsh, J. Flynn. Subs: S. Twomey for Liam Daniels, M. Crossan for J. Flynn.

FIRST WEST WATERFORD PRIMARY SCHOOLS HURLING FINAL Corn Na mBraithre Grade B. Ballymacarbry N. S. 4-3; Coolnasmear/Kilbrien 0-2. Ballymac: Thomas Phelan, Michael Mulcahy, Patrick Ryan, Brendan Ryan, Patrick Walsh, Richard Guiry, Capt, Tony Morrissey, Gerald Wall, Cathal Wall, J. J. McGrath, Brendan McCarthy. Subs: Nicholas McCarthy, Ronan Ryan, Eddie Ryan, Brendan Crotty. Coolnasmear/Kilbrien: Noel Drohan, James Drohan, Tommy Dunford, Stephen Dunford, Gerry Quinlan, Anthony Beresford, Noel Fraher, Lynon Beresford, Peter Power, John Moore, Michael Walsh. Subs: Kevin McGrath, Michael Dunford. JUNIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP Affane 1-7; Kilrossanty 1-5. Affane: Johnny Sheehan; Jim Joe Landers, J. Hickey, J. McCarthy; Kevin McCarthy, Sean Brackett, J. O’Shea; F. McCarthy, Pat Phelan; Michael Murray, P. McGrath, Michael Brackett; Ger O’Brien, E. Phelan, P. Morrissey. Subs: J. Killigrew and F. Phelan. Affane Scorers: E. Phelan 1-0, F. McCarthy 0-3, P. McGrath 0-2, M. Brackett and G. O Brien 0-1 each. INTER COUNTY REFEREE Declan Hennessy from the Ardmore club refereed the Munster under 21 football championship game between Cork and Tipperary in Clonmel. SENIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP Ballinameela 1-5; Ballinacourty 0-8. Scorers Ballinameela: Michael Culloo 1-0, Eamonn Walsh Junior 0-4, J. J. O’Brien 0-1. Scorers Ballinacourty: John Mulligan 0-6, Michael Hanrahan and Marty Kiely 0-1 each. DEATH OF FORMER WESTERN BOARD SECRETARY TOM KYNE Tom Kyne was secretary of the Western Board from 1939 to 1948. He succeeded Pax Whelan and led the way for other secretaries Dec Sullivan, Seamus O’Brien and Vincent Mulligan. He was also a county senior hurling selector for

some years and served as a T.D. from 1948 to 1969 and again from 1973 to 1977. UNDER 16 A WESTERN HURLING FINAL Dungarvan 9-4; Tallow 3-0. ‘COURTY WIN FIRST PHELAN CUP FINAL Ballinacourty 1-9; Stradbally 1-6. Ballinacourty won their first Phelan Cup senior football title when they beat Stradbally in the 1979 decider which was played in the Fraher Field on Saturday the 8th of August. The Ballinacourty captain was Johnny Burns. SENIOR FOOTBALL Kilrossanty 2-10; Affane 1-6. Kilrossanty qualified for a semifinal meeting between the winners of Ardmore and Ferrybank. A 51st minute fisted goal by Ger Walsh was the deciding score in this quarter final clash. MUNSTER UNDER 21 FOOTBALL Kerry 1-10; Waterford 0-8. Played at the Fraher Field, Kerry led at half-time by 1-8 to 0-5 with all of Waterford’s points coming from Pierce Whyte (3), Pat Curran and Jimmy Healy. Kerry did not score in the second half until the 58th minute by which time Whtye, Healy and J. Hartley had kicked Waterford points to leave just one goal between the teams. Waterford: Kieran Heffernan; T. O’Rourke, Padraig O’Brien, David Kirwan; M. Breslin, Eddie Rockett, J. Hartery; L. Power, P. Kelly; Michael Culloo, Pierce Whyte, John Mulligan; Jimmy Healy, Michael Kavanagh, Pat Curran, Subs: M. Reide for P. Kelly, Owen O’Brien for Michael Kavanagh. WEST MINOR HURLING SF RESULTS Tallow 4-8; Stradbally 2-9. Dungarvan 2-11; Lismore 2-4. COUNTY SENIOR FOOTBALL QUARTER FINAL Tramore 2-13; Clashmore/ Kinsalebeg 1-7. COUNTY SENIOR HURLING SEMI FINAL Dunhill 2-14; Ballyduff 2-6. WEST UNDER 16 B HURLING FINAL Stradbally 2-10; St. Pats 2-3. (Continued on page 10)

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Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6th January, 2017

Remembering 1981 on the (Continued from page 9) JOHNNY QUARRY DIES IN THE U.S.A. Johnny Quarry played in goal for Waterford in the NHL game against top team in the country Wexford in Walsh Park in 1955. The Model county were unbeaten for two years and the Dungarvan clubman Quarry made a string of great saves to help draw the game. Johnny Quarry emigrated to the United States in 1956 and missed out on the glory years of Waterford hurling from 1957 to 1963 as he was regarded by many astute followers of the game as the best goalie in the county. Johnny Quarry was only in his fifties when he died suddenly in New York. SENIOR HURLING COUNTY QUARTER FINAL Cappoquin 0-15; St. Mary’s Touraneena 1-11. Many observers believed St. Mary’s deserved a second bit of the cherry in this splendidly contested senior hurling quarterfinal game at the Fraher Field. Cappoquin led by 0-7 to 0-4 at half-time and the winning point was scored by Michael Hackett with time ebbing away which ended a very successful year for the Touraneena side at senior level. St. Mary’s Scorers: Declan Fitzpatrick 0-8, John Fraher 1-1, Declan Whyte 0-2. St. Mary’s: Ned Power; Peter McGrath, T. Power, Eamonn Power; P. Whelan, John Dalton, Tom Condon; Ger Butler, Declan Fitzpatrick; Lar Whelan, John Fraher, Michael Kiely; Michael Hickey, Declan Whyte P. Hearne. Sub: Declan Kiely for P. Hearne. Referee: Eddie Cunningham (Tallow).

SEPTEMBER TALLOW RETAIN MINOR HURLING TITLE Tallow 3-5; Dungarvan 0-8. Dungarvan led at half-time by 03 to 0-2 but goals by P. Delaney and Philly Curley (2) earned a deserving win for the Bridesiders. Tallow: Martin Murphy; J. Power, Aidan Ryan, T. McCarthy; M. Sice, J. O’Donoghue, Sean Lyons; Aidan O’Brien, Philly Curley; K. O’Brien, O. Ahearne, J. A. Tobin; P. Delaney, E. Cantillon, Paul Curley. Sub: T. Flynn for O. Ahearne. Dungarvan: Paddy Ferncombe; David Power, Chris Meehan, Ger Moran; Seamus Mansfield, Martin Houlihan, Ray Dwyer; Tomas Curran, Peter Quealy; David Burke, Noel Wade, Tony Hamilton; Alan Sheehan, Colin Quarry, Morrie Ferncombe. Sub: Denis McGrath for David Burke. SENIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP REPLAY Ballinacourty 1-8; Ballinameela 1-6. Ballinacourty made better use of their chances in this championship replay and in doing so enjoyed a 14 to 0-0 half time advantage. Michael Hanrahan scored the winners’ goal as early as the third minute. ‘Courty led by 1-7 to 0-3 with 51 minutes played and it took a late goal from a penalty by Eamonn Walsh junior to put a better look on the scoreboard from a Ballinameela point of view.

ARDMORE THROUGH TO COUNTY SEMI-FINAL Ardmore 0-12; Ferrybank 0-6. Ferrybank led at the break by 0-5 to 0-4 but Ardmore dominated a second half that they won by 0-8 to 0-1. Ardmore Scorers: Declan Hennessy 0-8, Denis O’Brien 0-2, Noel O’Connor and Pat Troy 0-1 each. Ferrybank Scorers: John O’Neill and John Burns 0-2 each, Stephen Breen and P. O’Meara 0-1 each. THE WEST IS BEST UNDER 14 HURLING West Waterford 7-9; East Waterford 1-4. Scorers West Waterford: Richard Guiry 2-1, Denis McGrath 2-1, Frank Power 2-0, Pat Walsh 1-0, Tom Whelan 0-2, Dermot O’Callaghan 0-2, J. A. Tobin 0-2, Johnny McGrath 0-1. West Waterford: Michael Dwyer (Dungarvan); Sean McGrath (Dungarvan), Seamus Prendergast (Lismore); Brendan Crowley (Lismore), P. Ryan (Fourmilewater), P. Roche (Lismore); Johnny McGrath (Brickeys), Frank Power (Lismore); Tom Whelan (St. Mary’s), J.A. Tobin (Tallow), Richard Guiry (Fourmilewater); Denis McGrath (Dungarvan), O. Hickey (Ballyduff), Dermot O’Callaghan (Dungarvan). Subs: Richard Ronayne, P. Walsh, B. Lawton. UNDER 16 COUNTY HURLING TITLES A Final: Clan Na Gael 3-9; Dungarvan 1-9. B Final: Passage 7-11; Stradbally 2-7. SENIOR HURLING SEMI-FINAL MICHEAL PHELAN DENIES MT. SION GREATER WINNING MARGIN Micheal Phelan denied Mt. Sion at least six very good goal scoring chances in a game that was a very close call for the pre match favourites. Cappoquin led by 0-9 to 0-6 at the end of the third quarter, but a goal by Jim Greene two minutes later rejuvenated ‘Sion and points by Carl Heffernan, Anthony Cooney and Greene booked their spot in yet another county final. OGSPORT GAEL Dungarvan represented Waterford in the National under 15 OGSPORT seven-a-side football tournament in Gormanstown College. The panel consisted of Dermot O’Callaghan, Denis McGrath, Peter Quealy, Michael Butler, Ger Beresford, John Fitzgerald, Morrie Ferncombe, David Power, David Burke and Seamus Mansfield. Team mentors were Mikeen Lyons and Pa Meehan. COUNTY INTERMEDIATE FOOTBALL FINAL Ballyduff Upper 2-8; Butlerstown 1-5. Ballyduff footballers overcame a fancied Butlerstown team to win the County Intermediate football title. Ballyduff sought regarding to junior status at the start of the year and in hindsight the wisdom of the board’s decision can clearly be seen. Ballyduff led at half time by 1-7 to 0-4 with Mossie Walsh fisting home the goal in the 20th minute. While Matty Crowley scored a good goal for Butlerstown in the 45th minute, it was too little too late as Gene Guiry hammered home

Dungarvan County under 16 ‘A’ Football Champions. Back row left to right: David Burke, Tomas Curran, Peter Quealy, Colin Quarry, Ger Moran, David Power, Ray Curran, Tony Hamilton, Morrie Ferncombe, Sean McGrath, Michael Dwyer, Seamus Mansfield. Front row left to right: Derek Lyons, John Fitzgerald, Billy Coleman, Chris Meehan (Capt.), Johnny Roche, Denis McGrath, Michael Butler, Paddy “Wacky” Ferncombe, Bernard Sheehan, Dermot “Pele” O’Callaghan. Ballyduff’s second goal in the 38th minute. Presentation: Chairman of the Western Board John Lyons presented the County cup to the winning Ballyduff captain Henry O’Keeffe. Scorers Ballyduff: Mossie Walsh 1-2, Gene Guiry 1-0, Liam Power 0-3, Mike Quirke, Richie Walsh and Mike Walsh 0-1 each. Scorers Butlerstown: Matty Crowley 1-1, Peter Crowley and P. Daniels 0-2 each. Ballyduff: John Quirke; Seamus Daly, B. McNamara, Seamie Daly; Maurice Geary, Seamie Hannion, Sean Prendergast; Liam Power, Mossie Walsh; Richie Walsh, Liam Drislane, Gene Guiry; Michael Walsh, Mike Quirke, Henry O’Keeffe. Sub: Paudie Prendergast for Henry O’Keeffe. Butlerstown: P. Costelloe; M. Conway, M. Flaherty, Mossie Costelloe; Tony Crowley, G. Power, M. Crowley; Michael Costelloe, Matty Crowley; Tony Fitzgerald, P. Crowley, J. Power; P. Daniels, M. Daniels, M. Whelan. Subs: M. Power for Tony Fitzgerald, J. Power for M. Whelan, T. Hayes for John Power. Referee: John O’Regan (Kilmacthomas). WESTERN JUNIOR HURLING SEMI FINALS Ballysaggart 3-7; Clashmore/Kinsalebeg 2-9. Tallow 3-13; Ballinameela 3-5. ABBEYSIDE WIN THIRD WESTERN MINOR FOOTBALL FINAL IN-A-ROW Abbeyside 1-9; St. Olivers 0-3. The only goal of the game was scored by Eamonn O’Brien after good play by Conor Clancy and Brian Dwane to give the winners a 1-4 to 0-0 lead after 17 minutes. St. Olivers produced their best form in the third quarter to reduce the leeway to 1-5 to 0-3. Abbeyside Scorers: Eamonn O’Brien 1-0, Declan Coleman 0-3, Timmy Organ and Vincent O’Brien 0-2 each, Brian Dwane and Conor Clancy 0-1 each. St. Olivers Scorers: Michael Walsh 0-2, V. Morrissey 0-1. Abbeyside: Tomas Mahony; D. Hogan, Michael Collins, Kevin O’Brien; Joe O’Riordan, John

Mahony, Ray Moloney; Declan Clarke, Conor Clancy; Eamonn O’Brien, Declan Coleman, Timmy Organ; Paul Mullaney, Brian Dwane, Vincent O’Brien. Subs: Brian Hartnett for Paul Mullaney, Kevin Coleman for Eamonn O’Brien, Eamonn O’Brien for Conor Clancy. Referee: Tomas Meagher (An Rinn).

OCTOBER BALLINACOURTY TOPPLE TRAMORE Ballinacourty 0-10; Tramore0-8 Ballinacourty turned in a spirited second half performance to qualify got their third county final in four years. This was a hard fought encounter and ‘Courty lost the services of both Johnny Burns and Albert Burke due to an accidental collision with a Tramore player. The winners led at the break by 0-6 to 0-4 and despite losing another player John Moloney, the local side dug deep with Eddie Cashin, Tiger Kiely and Tom Whelan coming on to play their part. The teams were level in the 32nd minute at 0-6 each but follow on points by Jimmy Healy, Michael Hanrahan and John Mulligan (2) edged Ballinacourty into their third county final in four years. Tramore Scorers: Ray Prenderville 0-3, Richard Doyle 02, Tony Partridge, John Walsh and John Purcell 0-1 each. Tramore: Tom Brennan; P. Flavin, J. Cowman, E. Cooney; S. Sullivan, J. Flavin, Noel Cullen; Michael Goodwin, Tony Partridge; L. Power, R. Doyle; John Purcell, Ray Prenderville, T. Whelan, John Walsh. Subs: T. Dalton for J. Purcell, Billy Fleming for R. Doyle. Referee: Jim Joe Landers (Affane/Cappoquin). SENIOR FOOTBALL SEMI-FINALS ARDMORE QUALIFY FOR FOURTH FINAL Ardmore 1-7; Kilrossanty 0-9. Ardmore senior footballers overcame a spirited challenge from a youthful Kilrossanty team to qualify for their fourth appearance in a

county final. The very experienced seasiders held out to record a deserved victory in a game which built up to a very exciting climax. Kilrossanty for their part will ponder upon the many chances which came their way especially in the second half and few would have begrudged them a second bite of the cherry if they took their scoring chances. Ardmore led by 1-4 to 0-3 at the break with Kilrossanty to have the wind in a second half that they won by 0-6 to 0-3. The goal so was the difference between winning and losing and it was Noel O’Connor who hammered the ball well out of the reach of the Comeragh keeper John Hallahan. Kilrossanty had lots of match saving scoring opportunities but this was definitely a case of experience overcoming a youthful team on the way up. Scorers for Kilrossanty: Jim Maher 0-3, Pierce Whyte 0-2, Tom Keating 0-2, Ger Walsh and Micheal Walsh 0-1 each. Kilrossanty: John Hallahan; Tom Prendergast, Pa Walsh, Noel Walsh; Nicky Tobin, Pat Keating, Pat Quinn; Pierce Whyte, Pat Prendergast; Nicky Hayes, Micheal Walsh, Jim Maher; Pat Hayes, Tom Keating, Ger Walsh. Sub: John Mulhearne for Nicky Hayes. Referee: Johnny Moore (Eire Og). UNDER 16 ‘A’ COUNTY FOOTBALL FINAL Dungarvan 2-7; Clan Na Gael 1-4. A brace of goals by Morrie Ferncombe, one from the penalty spot, helped Dungarvan to their first win in this grade since 1964 in a game that the winners led by 1-1 to 0-3. Dungarvan: Johnny Roche; David Power, Ger Moran, David Burke; Tomas Curran, Chris Meehan (Capt.), John Fitzgerald; Seamus Mansfield, Peter Quealy; Morrie Ferncombe, Tony Hamilton, Dermot O’Callaghan; Paddy Ferncombe, Colin Quarry, Michael Butler. Subs: Denis McGrath, Derek Lyons, Sean McGrath, Billy Coleman, Raymond Curran, Bernard Sheehan, Michael Dwyer.

MOUNT SION WIN 25th SENIOR HURLING TITLE Mount Sion 4-13; Dunhill 1-14. Jim Greene scored 2-5 in the first half and 2-7 overall in this well contested county senior hurling final in Walsh Park in front of an average attendance. The winners led at the short whistle by 2-6 to 0-11 and there was no doubt in the second half that the team with the stronger desire to win carried the day. Lack of finishing power on the day was Dunhill’s Achilles heel while ‘Sion raised four green flags the latter two by George O’Grady and Pat Kelly. However, unexpectedly and very surprisingly, Dunhill led by 1-12 to 2-6 before the end of the third quarter with their goal coming from young Martin Drohan. Yet, a hugely motivated Mount Sion after the tragic event early in the year regrouped and led by Pat Ryan and Pat McGrath the winners added a further 2-7 to their tally with Dunhill’s final score coming as early as the 42nd minute. Mount Sion: Stephen Greene; B. Knox, Jesse Kehoe, Capt, D. Shefflin; Pat McGrath, Eamonn Ryan, Pat Ryan; D. Connolly, Pat O Grady; Anthony Cooney, Pat Kelly, George O’Grady; Carl Heffernan, Martin Geary, Jim Greene. Sub: T. Butler for C. Heffernan. Dunhill: John Power; Frank Murphy, Joe Murphy, Martin Murray; S. Twomey, J. Murray, Willie Moore; Rob Power, J. Drohan; Senan Cooke, John Grogan, Tom Casey; Paddy Walsh, Michael Kavanagh, Tom Moore. Sub: M. Drohan for M. Kavanagh. INTER-FIRMS SENIOR FOOTBALL COUNTY FINAL Waterford Co-Op 2-10; Farmers 1-9. Co-Op Team: Timmy O’Keeffe; Declan Fitzpatrick, Roger O’Halloran, N. Walsh; M. Walsh, F. Murphy, K. Foley; Michael Hogan, Eddie Rockett ; Colm Barnes, Noel O’Connor, M. Power; Michael Hickey, Jim McGrath (Capt), Michael Shalloe. Sub: M. Flynn for D. Fitzpatrick (inj). Management team: Peter Ferncombe, Liam Enright, Eamonn McCarthy and Billy Tobin. (Continued on page 11)

GAA

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6th January, 2017

GAA scene in the Déise (Continued from Page 10) BALLINACOURTY ARE SENIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONS Ballinacourty 2-14; Ardmore 0-6. Ballinacourty turned on the style in the final quarter to add 2-6 to their tally of 0-8 to win their third county title comfortably against a gallant Ardmore side that contested very well up to this point. The winners led at half time by 0-5 to 0-2. With 41 minutes played Ardmore had reduced their deficit to 0-7 to 05 but ‘Courty made some decisive switches culminating in Michael Hanrahan fisting a 54th minute goal and soon afterwards Albert Burke added a second to wrap up a third title for the local club. Jimmy Healy scored 0-4 and he did much to tighten Courty’s grip on proceedings when moved to midfield while Tommy Wade and Johnny Burns enjoyed their best games ever. Team captain Eddie Cashin was presented with the Conway cup by chairman of the county board Johnny Murphy of the Dungarvan Club. Ballinacourty Scorers: Albert Burke 1-2, Michael Hanrahan 1-0, Jimmy Healy 0-4, Tommy Wade 0-3, Pat Enright 0-2, John Mulligan, Richie Hanrahan and Kevin Mulvihill 0-1 each. Ardmore Scorers: Noel O’Connor and Declan Hennessy 0-2 each, Frankie North and G. O’Connor 0-1 each. Ballinacourty: Jim Kiely; Joe Power, Seamus Feehan, Donal Looby; Johnny Burns, Nicky Cashin, John Moloney; Albert Burke, Richie Hanrahan; Jimmy Healy, Michael Hanrahan, Marty Kiely; Tommy Wade, Jim ‘Tiger’ Kiely, John Mulligan. Subs: Pat Enright for Marty Kiely, Kevin Mulvihill for Tiger Kiely, Eddie Cashin for John Mulligan. Ardmore: John Colbert; Michael Hennessy, Pat Prendergast, Richard Hennessy; Pat Hennessy, Denis Conway, Liam Lynch; John Hennessy, Frank North; Noel Conway, James O’Donnell, Declan Hennessy; Noel Connors, Jerry O’Brien, G. O’Connor. Subs: Martin King and Pat Troy. Referee: Jim Joe Landers (Cappoquin/Affane).

NOVEMBER ABBEYSIDE WIN 8th MINOR FOOTBALL TITLE Abbeyside 1-6; Tramore 1-1. When Abbeyside minors beat Tramore in the County football final in the Fraher Field they became only the second club to ever win the senior/minor double emulating Mt. Sion back in 1956. Abbeyside led by 1-1 to 0-1 at the break with their goal being scored by Vincent O’Brien. Second half points by Conor Clancy and Eamonn O’Brien, 0-2 each and one by Gerry O’Connor kept the initiative with the local side and they ran outconvincing winners. Tramore’s only second half score was a goal from a pono in the 60th minute by John Grace. Abbeyside: Tomas Mahony; D. Hogan, Michael Collins, Kevin O’Brien; Joe O’Riordan, John O’Mahony (Capt), Ray Moloney; Declan Clarke, Gerry O’Connor; Eamonn O’Brien, Declan Coleman, Conor Clancy; Timmy Organ, Brian Dwane, Vincent O’Brien. Tramore: Tom Brennan; Mark Molloy, Martin Carberry, Dec Power; Billy Butler, Garry Dalton, Pat Goodwin; David Purcell, Peter O’Leary; Paul Power, John Grace, Gordon Cunningham; Paul Dunne, Michael Heaphy, Liam Holland.

Referee: Tom Crotty (Nire).

Chairman of the county Board Johnny Murphy presented the minor cup to the Abbeyside captain John O’Mahony. UNDER 16 ‘B’ FOOTBALL COUNTY FINAL Nire 5-12; Killure 0-1. Nire led by 3-3 to 0-1 at the break. Nire Scorers: Michael Guiry 2-2, P. Desmond 2-0, Tony Condon 0-5, Michael Wall 0-3, Richard Guiry 1-0, Kevin Mulcahy 0-2. Nire: G. Walsh; S. Ryan, J. Barron, T. Walsh; P. Desmond, R. McGrath, P. Ryan; K. Mulcahy, T. Condon; P. Walsh, M. Wall, G. Hallinan; R. Guiry, M. Guiry, D. Desmond. Referee: Noel Sullivan (Portlaw).

NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE Waterford 0-13; Limerick 0-8. Waterford Scorers: Sean De Paor 0-4, Tom Keating 0-3, Pierce Whyte 02, Pat Keating 0-2, Jim McGrath and Michael Kavanagh 0-1 each.

LUKE O’TOOLE CUP FINAL Waterford 1-8; Wicklow 1-3. NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE Sligo 1-9; Waterford 0-5. MUNSTER CLUB SENIOR HURLING SEMI-FINAL Mt. Sion 2-12; Borrisoleigh 0-12. NINTH UNDER 21 HURLING TITLE FOR TALLOW Tallow 2-6; Cappoquin 0-5. Champions Cappoquin led by 04 to 0-2 at the break. Second half goals by Philly Curley and Pat Murphy swung the game Tallow’s way aided also by an inspirational performance by Timmy Sheehan at centre back. Tallow’s other title wins in this grade were won in 1969 and 72 and six in a row between 1974 and 1979. Tallow: Martin Murphy, Aidan Ryan, Con Ryan, James Donoghue; Johnny Geary, Timmy Sheehan, Michael Geary; David Creed, Sean Pratt; Philly Curley, Mike Beecher, Kevin O’Brien; Ger Hogan, Pat Murphy, M. Condon. Subs: John Fitzgerald for Kevin O’Brien, L. Ahearne for M. Condon. Cappoquin: Eddie McGrath; M. O’Keeffe, Pat McCarthy, P. O’Keeffe; J. Jeffries, John Fives, Brian Murray; Fintan Murray, James Mason; Kevin McCarthy, Eugene McLoughlin, M. Barry, F. McCarthy. Sub: D. O’Connor for F. McCarthy.

TALLOW RETAIN WEST JUNIOR HURLING TITLE Tallow 5-11; Ballysaggart 3-3. Scorers Tallow: Seamus Treacy 25, Pat Murphy 2-1, Pat Sheehan 1-3, Sean Pratt and Noel Sheehan 0-1 each. Ballysaggart Scorers: Jim Kearney 2-0, Pat Veale 1-0, James Bennett, Pat Bennett and J. Cashel 0-1 each.

MUNSTER SENIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP Nemo Rangers 4-14; Ballinacourty 1-3. NATIONAL HURLING LEAGUE Waterford 0-12; Cork 2-5. Waterford maintained their unbeaten run in the NHL with a deserving 0-1 win over the current champions Cork in Walsh Park. THREE IN-A-ROW FOR SLIABH gCUA Sliabh gCua 0-6; Stradbally 0-2. With centre back Michael Butler starring, Sliabh gCua deserved their third win in a row in the west junior football final in a game that was very well contested by

Stradbally’ second fifteen. Points by John Dalton (2) and James and Tom Condon gave the winners a 04 to 0-1 interval lead with Seamus Corbett scoring for the Reds. The second half was even a lower scoring affair with James Butler and James Condon pointing for the winners and Liam Connors kicking Stradbally’s second and final point. Sliabh gCua’s Scorers: John Dalton and James Condon 0-2 each, Ger Butler and Tom Condon 0-1 each. Stradbally’s Scorers: Seamus Corbett and Liam Connors 0-1 each. Sliabh gCua: A. Butler; John Fitzpatrick, Ned Power, M. Hearne; R. McGrath, Michael Butler, Declan Kiely; James Butler, Declan Fitzpatrick; P. Hearne, Tom Condon, James Condon; John Fraher, John Dalton, Michael Hickey. Subs: Eamonn Power for John Fitzpatrick, G. Butler for Michael Hickey. Stradbally: M. Costelloe; M. Walsh, Liam Carroll, Pearse Casey; Liam Connors, Maurice Lannon, Michael O’Brien; Nicky Connors, Colm Barnes; Kevin Barnes, Rob Walker, Bill Dunford; Liam Clancy, Pat Hickey, Seamus Corbett. Subs: Conor O’Brien for Liam Clancy, Pat Curran for Seamus Corbett. Referee: John Moore (Eire Og). NATIONAL HURLING LEAGUE Third Win in-a-Row for Waterford. After already beating Tipperary and league champions Cork, Waterford had it all to do to beat Laois in Rathdowney by 3-12 to 2-13. After a slow start by Waterford who at one stage trailed by 2-8 to 2-2, they recovered to be just a point behind at half time on a score of 2-8 to 3-4. The visitors won the second half by 0-8 to 0-5 but were made fight all the way for their third league win. NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE Kilkenny 2-3; Waterford 0-6. COUNTY JUNIOR HURLING FINAL Tallow 3-4; Tramore 2-7. Tallow Scorers: Noel Sheehan 2-1, Liam McCarthy 1-1, Seamus Treacy and John Fitzgerald 0-1 each. Tramore Scorers: P. J. Moroney 0-4, Tony Whelan and Phil Flavin 1-0 each, F. Walsh, J. Grace and M. O’Sullivan 0-1 each.

INTER-FIRMS MUNSTER FOOTBALL FINAL Cork Post Offices 1-6; Waterford Co-Op 0-6. ROANMORE’S FIRST UNDER 21 HURLING COUNTY TITLE Roanmore 2-9; Tallow 2-3. Played at Walsh Park, the exchanges were very even in the opening half which ended on a score of 1-2 each. A goal by Eamonn Coady and points from Kieran Delahunty, John Nugent and A. Collins helped Roanmore to a 2-5 to 1-3 third quarter lead. A Pat Murphy goal brought Tallow back into contention but further points from such as Delahunty, Nugent and P. Caulfield gave Roanmore its first title in the grade. Roanmore: B. Roche; O. Cunningham, L. Coady, J. O’Brien; S. Browne, J. Nugent, E. Roche; N. Crowley, D. McGrath; P. Power, P. Caulfield, A. Collins; K. Delahunty, E. Coady, R. Hayes.

DECEMBER MOUNT SION MAKE HISTORY MUNSTER CLUB SENIOR HURLING CHAMPIONS Mount Sion 3-9; South Liberties 1-4. Mount Sion who will celebrate their Golden Jubilee in 1982 became the first Waterford club to win the Munster senior hurling title with a comprehensive win over the Limerick champions South Liberties in Walsh Park. Liberties led by 1-4 to 1-3 at the short whistle with Limerick County star Joe McKenna scoring 1-2 while the ever reliable Jim Greene kept Mt. Sion in touch with a palmed goal from a Terry Butler pass. Mt. Sion took firm control of the game in the second half. South Liberties did not score in this moiety while the local side added a further 2-6 to their first half tally. Scorers Mt. Sion: Jim Greene 1-6, Pat Kelly 1-1, Martin Geary 1-0, Anthony Cooney and Pat O’Grady 0-1 each. Mt. Sion: Stephen Greene; B. Knox, E. Kehoe, D. Shefflin; P. O’Grady, E. Ryan, P. Ryan; D. Connolly, G. O’Grady; A. Cooney, P. Kelly, L. Slevin; T. Butler, M. Geary, J. Greene. Referee: Willie Horgan (Cork). WEST UNDER 21 FOOTBALL FINAL AFFANE WIN REPLAY Affane 3-6; Ballinacourty 2-5. After drawing 1-5 each in the first round, Affane, with Pat Curran providing the leadership, made better use of their scoring chances to take the title. Level the last day, level again at half time with the scoreboard reading 1-2 each, the goals coming from Kevin Mulvihill and Eugene McLoughlin. The defining score was Affane’s second half goal in the 50th minute via James Mason to give Affane a 2-5 to 1-4 lead. In the 58th minute a second Kevin Mulvihill goal left the minimum the difference at 2-6 to 2-5 but Affane had the final say when Eugene McLoughloin also scored his second goal to wrap up the title for Affane. Central Council Representative Seamus O’Brien presented the cup to the Affane captain Brian Murray. Affane: F. Phelan, P. McCarthy, J. Hickey, K. McCarthy; F. Murray, D. O’Connor, B. Murray. P. Phelan, E. McLoughlin; J. Jeffries, P. Curran, F. McCarthy; G. O’Brien, E. McGrath, J. Mason. Ballinacourty: Willie Kiely; Michael Collins, Donal Looby, Nicky Hannigan; Liam Shanley, Jerome Kiely, Michael O’Riordan; Declan Clarke, Jimmy Healy; John Mulligan, John Curran, Thomas Kiely; Kevin Mulvihill, Pat Moloney, Michael Organ. Subs: Deckie Coleman for Pat Moloney, Conor Clancy for Michael O’Riordan. Referee: Richie Ormonde (Lismore). NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE Waterford 3-4; Carlow 3-4. Scorers Waterford: Stephen Breen 1-1, Carthach Mac Craith and Pierce Whyte 1-0 each, John Hennessy 0-2, Richie Hanrahan 01. This win put Waterford in fourth place on the division 4 league table out of eight teams with six points from their five matches played.

ST. PAT’S WIN MINOR FOOTBALL LEAGUE St. Pat’s 1-8; Lismore 1-1. St. Pat’s Scorers: Eoin Phelan 1-0, Kevin Cliffe 0-3, Patsy Coffey and Tomas Grady 0-2 each, Pat Dunford 0-1. St. Pat’s: M. Power; Pa Coffey, P. McCarthy, J. Beresford; M. Curran, E. Phelan, Pat Power; Patsy Coffey, L. Curran; J. Walsh, Eoin Phelan, P. Dunford; T. Grady, K. Cliffe, B. Fraher. Subs: M. Tobin, M. Og Tobin, P. Fraher. NATIONAL HURLING LEAGUE WATERFORD ON TOP AFTER FOUR GAMES Waterford are unbeaten in the National Hurling league after four games after this well deserved 2-12 to 2-7 win against Galway at the Fraher Field. The Deise hurlers have eight points from four games and are top of the table ahead of both Tipperary and Cork who are on six points each. The first half was played out evenly but Waterford’s greater work rate saw them finish the game the stronger and they well deserved their 0-5 victory. Waterford’s Scorers: Stephen Breen 1-1, Eddie Nolan 1-0, Jim Greene and Mossie Walsh 0-3 each, Tom Casey 0-2, Pat Ryan, Pat Curran and Tomas Meagher 0-1 each. Waterford: John Power, Dunhill; John Galvin, Portlaw; Joe Murphy, Dunhill; John Dalton, Touraneena; Jimmy Hennebry, Portlaw; Liam O’Brien, Tallow; Pat Ryan, Mt. Sion; Mossie Walsh, Ballyduff; Kieran Ryan, Tallow; Tomas Maher, St. Finbarr’s; Stephen Breen, Ferrybank; Eddie Nolan, Roanmore; Tom Casey, Dunhill; Pat Curran, Cappoquin; Jim Greene, Capt, Mt. Sion. UNDER 21 FOOTBALL COUNTY FINAL Tramore 0-6; Affane 1-1. Tramore scored a surprising but a deserving win over Affane in the under 21 football County Final at the Fraher Field on Sunday, December 20th. The only goal of the game was scored by Pat Curran for Affane in the 59th minute. COUNTY JUNIOR HURLING FINAL REPLAY Played February 21st, 1982 Tallow 1-11 Tramore 2-7 Tramore looked the likely winners of this junior hurling county final replay when they led at half time by 2-4 to 0-2, their goals coming from full forward P. J. Moroney. However, it was a different Tallow that emerged in a second half that they won by 1-9 to 0-3 to take the title by a sufficient solitary point. Liam McCarthy finished a shot

back off the upright by John Fitzgerald into the net and the points flowed as Tallow players were first to the ball and eventually showed their high levels of hurling skill. The decisive score came in the 59th minute when wing back Johnny Geary struck over the winning point. It was a special day for Tallow goalie Ned Power, winning a County medal at 53 years of age. Tallow: Ned Power; Con Ryan, Don Henley, Aidan Ryan; Jimmy Cronin, John McCarthy (Capt), John Geary; John Fitzgerald, Sean Pratt; Seamus Treacy, Kevin Tobin, Dermot Cantillion; Noel Sheehan, Pat Murphy, Liam McCarthy. Referee: Noel Sullivan (Portlaw). JUNIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP Played Sunday, March 20th, 1982 THIRD TIME LUCKY FOR SLIABH gCUA Sliabh gCua 1-10; Tramore 0-4. Due to delays in the Eastern championship, this County Final didn’t take place until March 1982 which was very unfair on a patient Sliabh gCua club. However, that patience was duly rewarded when they proved convincing winners against Tramore’s second fifteen at the Fraher Field. The Touraneena club led by 1-5 to 0-4 at half time with their goal coming from effective full forward John Fraher. Tramore did not score in the second moiety thanks in the main to a rock solid Sliabh gCua defence while the Western champions added a further five points. This was Sliabh gCua’s second ever County Junior football final win, the first being in 1936 and Tommy Power, uncle of full back Ned Power was present at the match to see the 46 year wait being ended. Having been beaten in the 1978 and 1979 County finals, this win was worth waiting into the new year for. The team was trained by Cork’s Teddy Owens. A minutes silence was observed prior to the game as a mark of respect for the very popular former Kill player and current referee John O’Regan who died suddenly recently. Sliabh gCua Scorers: John Dalton 0-4, John Fraher 1-0, Declan Fitzpatrick 0-3, James Condon 0-2, Gerard Butler 0-1. Sliabh gCua: Anthony Butler; John Fitzpatrick, Ned Power, Michael Hearne; Richard McGrath, Michael Butler, Declan Kiely; James Butler, Tom Condon; Declan Fitzpatrick, John Dalton, James Condon; Michael Hickey, John Fraher, Pat Hearne. Subs: Gerard Butler for Michael Hickey, Pat Whelan for Pat Hearne.

1981 Waterford GAA role of honour HURLING Senior: Mount Sion Intermediate: Clonea. Junior: Tallow. Under 21: Roanmore. Minor: Roanmore. Under 16A: Clan na nGael. Under 16 B: Passage. Under 14 A: Lismore. Under 14 B: Fourmilewater.

FOOTBALL Senior: Ballinacourty Intermediate: Ballyduff Junior: Sliabh gCua Under 21: Tramore Minor: Abbeyside Ubder 16 A: Dungarvan Under 16 B: Nire Under 14 A: De La Salle Under 14 B: St. Mary’s

GAA

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

Ballyduff wins Mike Quirke Cup MORRISSEY FAMILY WESTERN UNDER 21 ‘B’ HURLING FINAL

Neil Moore, Western GAA Board presents the U-21B Hurling Cup to Ballyduff's Captain, Cian Leamy. Included is Stephen O'Donovan, representing the Morrissey Family, sponsors. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport] Ballyduff Upper ……………………1-14; An Ghaeltacht ……………………… 1-8. THE names Ballyduff and Mike Quirke are forever linked in their club history and so this was very appropriate the Wednesday before Christmas when the Reds under 21 hurlers were most deserving winners of the Western ‘B’ 2016 hurling title. The new champions have given impressive performances in their three outings this year against Brickeys, St. Olivers and An Ghaeltacht and there is no doubting their entitlement to represent the division in their forthcoming county final. A goal by Andrew Casey from a Cian Leamy pass in the 25th minute gave their side a permanent lead at 1-5 to 1-3 and this increased to 1-8 to 1-5 by half-time. Ballyduff doubled their advantage in a second moiety that they won by 0-6 to 0-3 as we waited for An Ghaeltacht to explode into action but this never occurred. Behind by 0-6 in the 42nd minute, An Ghaeltacht did reduce their deficit to 0-4 ten minutes later, 1-12 to 1-8 but it was Ballyduff who finished the stronger and points by Andrew Casey and Mikey Kearney (f) secured the Mike Quirke Cup would rest at home in the far west this winter. Not for the first time, Mikey Kearney proved to be one of the reasons for the difference between two teams and his personal tally of 0-10 from three variety of scores as well as his work rate was key to

his side’s success. The Reds’ defence was also rock solid superbly marshalled by Denis McDonagh on the edge of the square and Eoghan Murray at number 6. With Mikey Kearney operating i lar na pairce, there was little difference between the forward divisions though Andrew Casey’s contribution of 1-2 from play was another key reason for Ballyduff’s win. Conditions were freezing at the Fraher Field for this the last match there in 2016 and Jack Frost and all his little brothers whitened the playing surface before a ball was struck. Credit both sets of players who caught a hurley and who produced a good standard display of the ancient game despite the cold their hands had to contend with. An Ghaeltacht played their semi-final match just three days previously and at no stage in the decider did they repeat the buzz they displayed when scoring a tally of 5-19 against Ardmore. They looked a tired team and no doubt they could have done with a longer spell of recovery before taking on the best team in the grade. Both number 10’s got the scoring underway in the persons of Adam Feeney for the winners and Conor Mac Diarmada for An Ghaeltacht. Both sets of players were misplacing passes while acclimatising to the conditions and Ballyduff had three goal scoring chances inside the first six minutes with their sole return being a Mikey Kearney pointed ‘65’ after a fine save from

Ballyduff Upper, Western U-21B Hurling Champions 2016. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

a Cian Leamy effort. Ballyduff were on top of their opposition in the first 17 minutes with three Mikey Kearney points being replied to only once by Fearghal O Cuirrin, whose influence on the game overall wasn’t as much as anticipated, 0-5 to 0-2. O Cuirrin showed a glimpse of his Bushy Park form when he ran through the Ballyduff defence to plant the sliotar in the town end goal in the 17th minute and a trade mark point from play by the same player gave An Ghaeltacht the lead for the only time four minutes later, 1-3 to 0-5. An Ghaeltacht’s green flag was negated in the 25th minute when Cian Leamy placed Andrew Casey for the only other goal of the game and from here on it was Ballyduff who were masters of the scoreboard. Fearghal O Cealaigh and Mark Dooling traded minors and a 29th minute Seanai Mac Craith point left just the minimum the difference at 1-6 to 1-5. Following a fine tackle to regain possession by lan chulai Darach O Cathasaigh, An Ghaeltacht had a moment’s opportunity to raise a second green flag but the half ended with two further Mikey Kearney points that settled Ballyduff heading in at the break, 1-8 to 1-5. Ballyduff returned the stronger to the fray against a fairly lifeless opposition and a Casey brothers’ worked point scored by Andrew increased their lead in the 31st minute to 0-4. Cian Leamy was operating

further out the field for the winners and two Mikey Kearney points, the second a contender for score of the match, gave his team a 0-6 lead at 1-11 to 1-5 with 42 minutes played. An Ghaeltacht’s wing back Conor O Cuirrin came out of defence to pop over a fine point in the 44th minute while good work by the energetic Sean Casey earned a ‘65’ which Mikey Kearney made the most off, 1-12 to 1-6. An Ghaeltacht enjoyed their best patch in the second half at this stage and two pointed frees by Seanai Mac Craith began to reel in Ballyduff, 1-12 to 1-8 in the 52nd minute. This was the first time in the second moiety that Ballyduff looked any way vulnerable and good defending by Eoin Hickey at this stage proved vital. There was no score for what seemed like three long minutes, it was An Ghaeltacht who required the next flag but it was Ballyduff who sprinted for home to take the honours. Andrew Casey lofted over a contender for score of the match in the 55th minute, himself and Mikey Kearney (2f) were guilty of three wides in a totally dominant period and it was fitting that it was man of the match Kearney who struck the final score, a free, as Ballyduff ran out deserving 0-6 winners. PRESENTATION Vice-Chairman of the Western Board, Neil Moore presented the Mike Quirke Cup into the welcoming Ballyduff hands of team

captain Cian Leamy and he wished the Reds all the best in the county final. Ballyduff’s Top Three: Mikey Kearney, Denis McDonagh, Andrew Casey. An Ghaeltacht’s Top Three: Christy Breathnach, Darach O Cathasaigh, Diarmuid O Cuirrin. Observer’s Man of the Match: Mikey Kearney. Number of Scorers: Ballyduff 4. An Ghaeltacht 5. Scores from Play: Ballyduff 1-8. An Ghaeltacht 1-5. Frees For: Ballyduff 15. An Ghaeltacht 12. Wides: Ballyduff 13. An Ghaeltacht 6. Score of the Match: Fearghal O Cuirrin’s 17th minute goal for An Ghaeltacht. Scorers – Ballyduff: Mikey Kearney 0-10 (4f, 2’65’), Andrew Casey 1-2, Adam Feeney and Mark Dooling 0-1 each. An Ghaeltacht: Fearghal O Cuirrin 1-2 (1 ’65’), Seanai Mac Chraith 0-3 (2f), Conor Mac Diarmada, Fearghal O Ceallaigh agus Conor O Cuirrin 0-1 an duine. Ballyduff: Conor Sheehan; Oran Leamy, Denis McDonagh, Eanna Hyland; Thomas McDonagh, Eoghan Murray, Oisin Hickey; Eoin O’Brien, Mikey Kearney; Mark Dooling, Andrew Casey, Adam Feeney; Cian Leamy, Sean Tanner, Sean Casey. Subs: Sean Kenny for Sean Tanner (ht), Bill Keane for Mark Dooling (53). An Ghaeltacht: Tomas O Cadhla; Diarmuid O Cuirrin, Darach O Cathasaigh, Brian De Baruin; Conor O Cuirrin, Criostoir Breathnach, Cormac Mac Murchu; Jamie De Baruin, Fearghal O Ceallaigh; Conor Mac Diarmada, Seanai Mac Chraith, Fearghal O Cuirrin; Nioclas O Conduin, Aodhan Mac Gearailt, Bryan Frinseach. Fir Ionaid: Oisin Mac Siomoin do Nioclas O Conduin (40), Aaron O Crotaigh do Bryan Frinseach (44). Referee: Thomas Walsh (Modeligo).

GAA

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6 January, 2017

Gaelic Jottings Recalling the Waterford/ Cork rivalry AT the height of their championship rivalry during the first decade of the millennium, no two counties delivered entertainment as consistently as the hurlers of Waterford and Cork. Whether they crossed paths in Munster in May or in an All-Ireland semi-final in August, the southern neighbours seldom failed to serve up a memorable contest over the course of their nine championship meetings between 2002 and ’07. Having been a key player for Waterford throughout that period, the Deise’s thrilling tussles with the Rebels feature prominently in the autobiography of Ken McGrath — ‘Hand on Heart’ — which was published before Christmas. “It was kind of a cocktail of stuff,” McGrath told The42 when reflecting on the Cork rivalry. “You can’t really put your finger on it. Even in the first-round games you’d have 50,000 people there. You couldn’t get a ticket for a first-round game. You’d be looking forward to those games for months. “Back then there was a lot of individual battles. I’d be picking up Niall McCarthy and I’d know that he’s not going to stop running, so I’d have to stop him. Tony [Browne] would be picking up Timmy McCarthy, Ben O’Connor… that’s the way it was. Everyone had their own individual battles and those battles grew and grew as the rivalry got bigger and better.” Widely regarded as the greatest episode in the Waterford-Cork series, the 2004 Munster senior hurling final ended with McGrath ascending the steps of the New Stand at Semple Stadium to lift the cup. With a point to spare, Waterford avenged their loss to Cork in the previous year’s decider and regained the provincial title in spite of the 38th-minute sending-off of John Mullane. That six-season spell of memorable meetings between Waterford and Cork yielded one draw and four victories each. However, the sides were ultimately separated by September silverware. While Cork were crowned All-Ireland champions in 2004 and ’05, Waterford failed to end their bid for a first title since 1959. “We both brought the best out of one another,” McGrath said. “Unfortunately for us, we did as much hurling as Cork but they had the AllIrelands to show for it. We didn’t, which was a bit of a sickener.” There’s been no shortage of classic contests in hurling in the All-Ireland series in recent years. However, McGrath believes it’s difficult to imagine a similar rivalry developing at provincial level nowadays. “It’s hard,” he said. “I keep on hearing that hurling has evolved. It has to evolve, of course, but it has to evolve for the good. Some of the games in the last few years have been poor — nearly boring. I’m allowed to say it, that’s my opinion on it. “At times you’re nearly crucified for saying it but there are times when you’d turn games off, which was never the case. Before you’d watch a soccer game or a rugby game and the difference in a hurling game was up another level. In the last couple of years it hasn’t always been like that. “I think the All-Ireland series was very, very good this year. Tipperary are having a go at teams and trying to out-score them. They’re trusting their players and trusting their ability. I think that’s the way forward. I think it’s certainly the way forward for Waterford anyway. It suits us and it’s the way we should definitely go about it in the next couple of years.” As for the current health of hurling in both counties, Waterford and Cork are

Representatives from Affane/Cappoquin, Fourmilewater/Nire, St. Saviours, Ballysaggart, Ballygunner, Stradbally and Kilrossanty who were presented with Munster Council Grants at a special function in Lawlors Hotel, Dungarvan. Included are Paddy Joe Ryan, Chairman Co. GAA Board; John O'Leary, Delegate to Munster Council; Anthony Walsh, Treasurer Munster Council; Emer Barry, Co. Development Officer; Sean O'Regan, Vice-Chairman Co. GAA Board; Patrica Walsh, Secretary Western GAA Board; John Jackson and Brendan Tobin. [Sean Byrne//Deise Media]

now in very different places. The Deise were All-Ireland senior semi-finalists this year before going on to win their second ever U-21 title. Cork’s struggles continued at underage level, while the seniors were eliminated by Wexford in the qualifiers. “I’d always have a grá for Cork,” McGrath said. “They always try to play hurling and the crowd when we were playing were brilliant. They bring a great kind of razzmatazz to the whole thing. “It’s hard to see Cork where they are now. But to be honest, we can only worry about Waterford and that’s the way we should be. We’re still trying for that AllIreland. Cork have their problems but Cork will be back. They’re good enough, they’re big enough, the structures are in place for them to come back and they will.” McGrath added: “If the Waterford lads keep their feet on the ground and really get their heads around what they have to do next year, there’s no reason why this team can’t push on with a few extra young lads pushing through. “You have the nucleus of a top-class team already there. They were in two All-Ireland semifinals in a row and they pushed Kilkenny to the pin of their collar twice in two brilliant games. I think that shows the way we have to push forward and really go at teams.”

Kelly’s Eye Courtesy of 42.ie AS Waterford manager Sean Power looked ahead to a Bord Gáis Energy Munster U-21 hurling semi-final against Clare in July, he was dealing with some collateral damage. Five of the players selected to line out against the Banner County were licking deep wounds following a 21-point mauling against Tipperary in the senior provincial final just three days previously. The two Gleesons, Austin and Conor, had featured in the Gaelic Grounds collapse, as well as Tom Devine, Patrick Curran and Shane Bennett. But any fears of a hangover were blown away as Waterford beat Clare by 3-23 to 1-11 at Walsh Park, kick-starting an U-21 campaign that would see them crowned as Munster and All-Ireland champions. Eoin Kelly doesn’t remember too much fuss before the Clare

game. After all, he’d been on Waterford senior teams that had suffered big beatings throughout his career, most notably in the 2008 All-Ireland final against Kilkenny. The U-21s? Well, they proved an unstoppable force and after beating Clare by 18 points, they overcame Tipperary by 10 points at a packed Walsh Park on 27 July to win the Munster title. The AllIreland semi-final was one-way traffic, Antrim sent packing by 29 points, before Waterford had 16 points to spare against Galway in the final. Appearing in their first All-Ireland U21 final since 1994, Waterford claimed the title for the first time in 24 years. The previous winning crop in 1992 produced senior stars like Flynn, Tony Browne and Fergal Hartley, and the hope is that this present crop can write their own future histories. Some are already established senior stars. After all, Austin Gleeson is the current Hurler and Young Hurler of the Year, while Shane Bennett made his senior debut during the 2015 League campaign. And yet Kelly, who played U-21 for five years, wonders about the future of the grade. “It’s a tough grade, an ‘in between grade’, you’re not getting access to the players the whole time that you’d like,” he reflects “A lot of them are with the senior team and while it would be a shame to see it go, it’s a grade that has to be looked at. Are we putting too much on players? “They’re being dragged from two or three different panels, four or five for some lads. “The lads we had this year did their best to be at training when they could and they worked well with the seniors and us, a very dedicated bunch.” But Kelly explains that at a time when Waterford were planning for their U-21 campaign, players were involved with third-level, club and inter-county teams, some in both codes. A few of them involved with the county football team, a few in school, Harty Cup, college. There’s so many things pulling and dragging out of players, it’s getting a bit out of hand in some regards.” But when the Waterford U-21s came together as a unified force on the field, they were simply mesmeric, with many wondering if they were the best ever team to emerge from the grade Austin Gleeson was superb for Waterford's U-21 and senior teams this year.

“It was like watching Brazil in their good days, we let them express themselves,” Kelly says. “There was no ‘you had to do this or that’, you went out and played hurling. “They had the skill to do that and it showed in the scores and goals they were getting. The way they played was unbelievable.” It was fitting that Waterford produced a complete final performance, scoring 5-15 to obliterate Galway at Semple Stadium. “The one thing we had as a management going up there was that we knew what they were, and what they were capable of,” says Kelly.“You’re just hoping they produce on the day because so many Waterford teams of the last 10-15 years haven’t performed on big days. “This team went out and performed to the heights of their ability. I don’t think the pick of the country would have beaten them that day, the way they hurled.” Waterford’s stunning U-21 success has sent expectation levels soaring in the county. The hope now is that the seniors can deliver a first All-Ireland crown since 1959 in the coming years. But Kelly is preaching caution. “Unbelievable, and we’re the worst county for it. They crave success so much that when they have it, they think it will come fairly easily. “Think of the 1992 team that won the All-Ireland U-21 – the seniors lost to Kerry the next year. “The Limerick teams that won three-in-a-row U-21s (2000-2002) didn’t do a whole lot at senior. It’s a huge step up again. It’s the physicality of it. You’re not fully developed yet, 18 or 19 on a senior panel and up against fellas 26 or 27 who’ve been doing weights for eight, nine or ten years. They’re fitter, stronger, and you’re getting harder belts.” But Kelly believes that Waterford may be ok in the senior grade, simply because the age profile of teams is gradually decreasing. It’s increasingly rare to see players operating well into their 30s and that can help Waterford, as Kelly explains. As a former player who experienced his share of near misses in the senior grade, Kelly is convinced that the door will some day swing open. “There’s no guarantee it will happen but they are very close to making it happen. “It would mean a lot to Waterford hurling. I’m a supporter now but the players are putting in a savage effort. “It

would mean so much to them, the management and lads involved in the group. “I’d like to see them win it for themselves. They were unlucky this year – they should have beaten Kilkenny twice, should have won the League final, but they’re close, very close. “One thing in their favour, which we didn’t have, is that there’s not a whole lot of teams that can beat them. “When we were there, you had Cork, Kilkenny, Tipp, Galway, Limerick, Clare. All of them could have beaten us and did at different stages. “But now it’s Tipp, Kilkenny and maybe Galway. There’s only four teams in the country really. Apart from those, there’s a massive gap. Those players have a golden opportunity with a golden team to put the hoodoo to bed. I think they will. It might not be next year but in the next few years, they could win one, if not two.”

Munster League Fixtures Waterford’s senior footballers will play the first round of the McGrath Cup Munster league series away to Clare this Sunday, January 8th in Cusack Park Ennis at 2 p.m. and the following week will be at home to Limerick in the second round which will be played at the Fraher Field on Sunday, January 15th at 2 p.m. also. The hurlers will play hosts to Limerick this Sunday, January 8th in Walsh Park at 2 pm and following games include away to Cork in Mallow on Wednesday, January 18th at 7.30 p.m. and home to Clare in Walsh Park on Sunday, January 22nd at 2 p.m.

Scór Na Seachtaine OLIVIER Giroud’s 17th minute goal for Arsenal against Crystal Palace in their Premier League game at the Emirates last Sunday afternoon.

Fraher Field Classics THIS week’s featured game on the Fraher Field Facebook page, courtesy of the editor of the Dungarvan Observer and from the pen of John A. Murphy is the Sheehan Cup Under 14 Hurling Final between Abbeyside and Tallow/ Ballyduff on Sunday, November 13th, 1966. “Abbeyside Win Sheehan Cup’’ Abbeyside 6-2; Tallow/Ballyduff 4-2

GAA

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6th January, 2017

Eddie O’Donnell Monumental Works Eastern Under 21 (B) Hurling Final

Impressive Passage never extended by weakened Mary’s Passage ……………………3-14; St. Mary’s ……………………0-5.

Phil Fanning

Newtown beaten by St. Saviours in the Eastern Allianz Cumman na mBunscoil Football Div. 4 Final 2016. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

66 Main Street, Dungarvan

(058) 45590 nicky@mckennacomputers.com From the Files of the Dungarvan Observer Saturday, 4th January, 1997. COUNTY UNDER 21 (A) HURLING FINAL

Easy win for Lismore Lismore 1-12; Ballygunner 1-1. THERE was a certain inevitability about the result ot this County under 21 hurling final played at Dungarvan’s Fraher Field on Sunday, 22nd December, 1996, as the Eastern Champions Ballygunner were forced to line-out without the services of their two county under 21 players Darragh O’Sullivan (injured) and Tony Carroll out of bounds. Lismore had first use of the strong breeze playing down-field into the Old Railway end of the ground and Dan Shanahan put them in front with a point after just 39 seconds. Thereafter, it was the Bennett brothers, who proved to be the tormentors of the Eastern champions as Eoin scored 0-2 and David tacked on 0-5 (two frees, two 65s and one from play) to leave Lismore in front 0-8 to 0-0 with 24 minutes played. Gerry Cullinane soloed forward to score a great point for the ’Gunners with 28 minutes played. But on the stroke of half-time, Eoin Bennett crashed in a great goal with a first time strike off the sod. In truth, Lismore should have been much further in front if their forwards had opted to take their points instead of going for goals when points were there for the taking. In all they shot a total of nine first half wides and five in the second half. Ballygunner with the breeze to their backs did up their game on the turnover, but it was Lismore who continued to tack on the scores per midfielders Eugene O’Brien and Emmett Quann, who were well on top here and both are players of distinct promise. Antoin Cummins, Darragh Lapthorne, Colum

Gaffney, Garry Cullinane, Colin Kehoe, Jim O’Keeffe and especially centre half back Paul Forrest were best for a Ballygunner team who were obviously feeling the wear and tear of playing for four successive weekends. Thus, Lismore regained the county under 21 title which they last held in 1993 with a most competent team performance. Brendan Landers kept a good goal with Anthony Whelan and Aiden Ormonde solid corner backs. Tom Veale and William Cunningham were excellent wing backs while James O’Connor led by example from centre half back. Up front Billy Walsh (until injured), Dan Shanahan, Michael Kearney, David Howard all worked hard with the Bennett brothers being easily their best attackers and both are players with a bright future ahead of them. While my man of the match was full-back Brendan Ormonde who played a stormer. PRESENTATION After the game County Board Chairman, P. J. Ryan presented the cup to Lismore captain James O’Connor. Lismore scorers: E. Bennett 1-2, D. Bennett 0-6, D. Shanahan, E. O’Brien, E.Quann, D. Howard 0-1 each. Ballygunner: C. Kehoe 1-0, G. Cullinane 0-1. Lismore: Brendan Landers; Anthony Whelan, Brendan Ormonde, Aidan Ormonde; Tom Veale, James O’Connor, William Cunningham; Emmett Quann, Eugene O’Brien; Billy Walsh, Dan Shanahan, Eoin Bennett; Dave Bennett, Michael Kearney, David Howard. Subs: John Begley for D. Howard. Ballygunner: Antoin Cummins; Derek Troy, Darragh Lapthorne, Stephen Duffy; Colum Gaffney, Paul Forrest, Alan Kirwan; David Troy, Fergal McNamara; Colin Kehoe, Garry Cullinane, Paul Hearne; Brian Moriarity, Ian Barry, Jim O’Keeffe. Subs: Ed Kirwan for I. Barry. B. Kennedy for B. Moriarty. Referee: Pat Moore (Abbeyside/Ballinacourty).

McGrath’s Newsagents MITCHEL STREET, DUNGARVAN 058-41661 Newspapers • Sweets • General Grocery

TEAMS OF TIMES GONE BY SENIOR FOOTBALL – PHELAN CUP FINAL ST. SAVIOURS INCH OUT BALLINACOURTY Championship: Senior Football Phelan Cup Final. Venue: Walsh Park. Date: Sunday, 22nd December, 1996. Opposition: Ballinacourty. Half-time score: Ballinacourty 1-6; St. Saviours 0-3. Full-time score: St. Saviours 1-9; Ballinacourty 1-8. Referee: Pat ‘Tyler’ Walsh (Fourmilewater). St. Saviours team: Paul Houlihan; Paul Concoran, Alan Power, Brendan Brophy; Anthony Jacob, Mark Corcoran, Nicholas Jacob; Michael O’Brien, Ian Stenson; Tony Higgins, Albert Healy, Kyle Murphy; Liam Quilty, Willie Reynolds, Barry Quilty. Subs: Tony Corcoran, Eoin Hartery.

THE Christmas break did nothing to weaken the resolve of this Passage side as, just over a week after their eight point win over a good Ballyduff/Portlaw side, they followed up in Dunhill on Thursday last with an emphatic eighteen point win over group side St. Mary’s to clinch a County Final showdown with Ballyduff Upper. From the moment Sean Hogan swept Adam Roches delivery to the St. Mary’s net, seconds after the throw in, the issue was never really in doubt. True, St. Mary’s task was always going to be much the harder in the absence, though injury, of county U-21 star Micheal Harney but even his imposing presence would not have been enough to change the result here. St. Mary’s were always on the back foot here and it was only some heroic defending by fullback Conor Flynn, backed up by some brave goalkeeping by Conor Behan that kept their goal intact following that early strike until the final quarter. The fact that all five St. Marys’ points came from the stick of corner forward Niall Dunphy, from frees, showed that they lacked the firepower to trouble well organised opponents. From the opening goal the pressure was on the St. Mary’s defence throughout the first half as Passage dominated the middle third of the field, regaining possession from every puck out with Adam Roche the dominant figure backed up by a strong half back trio of Dylan Power, Darragh Lynch and Donal Power. The result was meagre supply of ball to the St. Marys front line and danger man Shane Behan.

On the other hand the Passage forwards saw plenty of the ball but found progress difficult against very determined defending to the extent that six of their seven first half points came from frees, all scored by Jamie Burke, with their only point from play coming from Adam Roche. H.T. Passage 1-7, St. Mary’s 0-2. Another point from a free by Dunphy in the opening minute of the half seemed to lift St. Mary’s and for about five minutes the Passage defenders had to work hard to maintain their advantage but all that Marys could add to their total was a further 37th minute point from Dunphy. Passage were quickly back in control with Adam Roche asserting his authority but the pattern of the first half looked like being maintained as the Village forwards struggled to get the better of a resolute defencein which Conor Flynn, Ciaran Kirwan and Corey Kennedy continued to hold the line. The introduction of Niall O’Keeffe to the Passage attack in the third quarter brought added pace and flair to the forward line and after Conor Drohan pointed a free in the 45th minute O’Keeffe followed up with what was his side’s second point from play. In the 47th minute Peter O’Neill was sent into the Passage attack for Josh Cunningham and within seconds he made a break forward to send Niall O’Keeffe through for great goal, giving Conor Behan no chance with a shot to the corner of the net. That score killed off any slight hope of a St. Mary’s revival. After Adam Roche added another Passage point Niall Dunphy had his side’s last point of the game in the 49th minute from a free. A minute later Niall O’Keeffe was

the provider for Conor Drohan to race through for the third Passage goal and after the same player added a point it was left to the outstanding Adam Roche to close out the scoring with two late points from play for a decisive and ultimately impressive Passage victory. Despite the eighteen point margin of victory Passage were made to work hard for much of the game against a side fielding without a number of key players apart from Michael Harney. Going in against Western champions Ballyduff Upper on Saturday next they will be hoping for a better return on the scoreboard, from play, by their forwards. Scorers – Passage: Jamie Burke 0-7 (Fs), Conor Drohan 1 -2 (0-1F) Niall O’Keeffe 1-1, Adam Roche 0-4, Sean Hogan 1-0. St. Marys: Niall Dunphy 0- 5 (Fs) Passage: Conor Cullinane, Calum O’Neill, Dale Cullinane, David Jones, Dylan Power, Darragh Lynch, Donal Power, Adam Roche, Gary Cullinane, Sean Barlow, Josh Cunningham, Jamie Burke, Stephen Lynch, Sean Hogan, Conor Drohan. Subs: Niall O’Keeffe for Jones, Peter O’Neill for Cunningham, Michael Hayes for D. Cullinane, Dean Kearns for Burke. St. Mary’s: Conor Behan, Cian Halley, Conor Flynn, Gerard Mooney, Corey Kennedy, Ciaran Kirwan, Jeff Halley, Dan Cusack, Adam Walsh, Dylan Power, Jack Dee, Conor Keane, Niall Dunphy, Shane Behan, Luke Foran. Subs: Johnny Long for Mooney, Alan Fitzsimons for Dee, Brian Gallagher for J. Halley, R. O’Connell for Keane, Tom Dunne for Walsh. Referee: Tony Larkin (Ballyduff Lower).

Ballyduff seeks first County title 2016 JJ KAVANAGH AND SONS COUNTY UNDER 21 B HURLING FINAL Ballyduff Upper v Passage at Fraher Field Saturday, January 7th at 2 p.m. BALLYDUFF Upper will be aiming to win their first county title at this level when they face Eastern champions Passage in the Fraher Field this Saturday at 2 p.m. The Reds have won the western title on three occasions and it looks as if it will take a special effort on their part if they are going to deny a fancied Passage team on this occasion. Passage have beaten both Ballyduff/Portlaw and St. Mary’s convincingly on route to Saturdays final in convincing fashion and there is a fair spread of players with senior experience on their books as well as those who pushed 2015 county minor champions Ballygunner all the way to extra time in their then semi final encounter. The seasiders will be looking to such as Sean Hogan, Donal

Power, Adam Roche, Darragh Lynch, Calum O’Neill, Gary Cullinane, Darragh and Stephen Lynch and freetaker Jamie Burke to lay the foundations for a title win and it will take a Ballyduff side playing at their very best to send them home without the cup. On the other hand Ballyduff have done all that has been asked of them to date including a well merited western final win over An Ghaeltacht in the frost before Christmas at the Fraher Field. The Reds also have a fair springling of hurlers with senior experience in such as Mikey Kearney, Andrew Casey, Cian Leamy, Eoghan Murray, Denis McDonagh Eoin O’Brien and Oisin Hickey. Ballyduff are renowned for their ‘heart’ and fighting spirit and this latest generation of hurlers will relish the challenge put before them this Saturday. The consistant Conor Sheehan will man the goal once again and central defenders Denis McDonagh and Eoghan Murray will marshal a sector including Oran

Leamy, Eanna Hyland, Thomas McDonagh and Oisin Hickey, who gave away precious little scores from play against An Ghaeltacht. Eoin O’Brien and Mikey Kearney will man midfield and while Passage will be aiming to curb Kearney’s influence, this will be easier said than done. Returning from a long injury forced lay off, team captain Cian Leamy is improving with every outing and he and the Casey brothers Andrew and Sean, Adam Feeney, Sean Tanner, Mark Dooling, Sean Kenny and Bill Keane will be striving to keep the scoreboard working to match the Passage side. Saturday’s assignment is a big ask for the western champions against a team that might well have been graded in the ‘A’ championship but this is a timely opportunity for Michael Walsh’s charges to bring this title back to the club for the first time and no doubt their loyal band of supporters will be there in force to cheer them on to achieving this ambition. Forecast: Passage.

GAA CLUB NOTES

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6th January, 2017

Ardmore Ardmore Lotto 27th December, 2016: Jackpot not won. Numbers: 9-15-17-22. Winners of €20: Hickey Grandchildren, c/o Kiely’s Cross Bar; Ronnie Hennessy, c/o Quinn’s Shop; Darren Cliffe, c/o Round Tower Hotel; Paddy Mac, c/o John O’Donnell; John Quinn, c/o Quinn’s Shop. Lotto Result 2nd January, 2017: Numbers 416-20-23. Winners of €20: Breda Flaherty, c/o An Tobar; Jenny Supple, c/o Keever’s Bar; Laura Lynch, c/o Fleming’s Bar; Louise Seward, c/o An Tobar; Tomas O Sithchain, c/o Quinn’s Shop. Next draw Jackpot €9,600 at An Tobar.

Upper Ballyduff Upper Ballyduff U-21 HURLING FINAL Our U-21 team captured the Western B title for the first time in six years on December 21st with a 1-14 to 0-8 win over An Ghaeltacht in Fraher Field, Dungarvan. Captained by Cian Leamy, Ballyduff started the stronger and were 0-4 to 0-1 ahead by the 12th minute. An Ghaeltacht responded and were a point to the good by the 20th minute. With four minutes to go before the break, a long-range effort from Cian Leamy was turned in by Andrew Casey and three further points saw Ballyduff lead 1-8 to 1-5 at halftime. On resumption, Ballyduff outscored their opponents six points to three and were fully deserving of their victory. Well done to all the players and the management team of Michael Walsh and Jamie Hannon. Team: Conor Sheehan, Oran Leamy, Denis McDonagh, Éanna Hyland, Oisin Hickey, Eoghan Murray, Thomas McDonagh, Mikey Kearney (0-10, 5f, 2 65s), Eoin O’Brien, Mark Dooling (0-1), Andrew Casey (1-2), Adam Feeney (0-1), Cian Leamy, Sean Tanner, Sean Casey. Subs: Sean Kenny for Tanner (H/T), Bill Keane for Dooling (52), Micheal Hannigan, William Daly, Jonathan Hannon. U-21 FIXTURE The U-21 B County Final against Passage will be held on Saturday, January 7th at 2 p.m. in Fraher Field, Dungarvan. All support welcome.

Brickey Rangers LOTTO RESULTS Draw held on Thursday, 22nd December in The Enterprise Bar. Numbers drawn: 4 - 8 11 -27, no jackpot winner, €100 special Christmas prize to Avice White, €25 to each of the following: Michael Tutty, Bernie Hickey, Bernadette Whelan & Biddy Hourigan. Draw held on Thursday 29th December in The Tudor House. Numbers drawn: 3 - 9 12 & 22, no jackpot winner, €25 to each of the following: Padraig McGrath, Cecila Walsh, Triona Shalloe & Joan Dunne. The first draw of 2017 will be held this Thursday night at The Local Bar, Jackpot prize of €6,600 up for grabs. Tickets are €2 each available from McGrath's, Shalloe's or any committee member. AGM The annual general meeting of the adult club will take place this Thursday night, January 5th at Bushy Park. All members are asked to attend, this is the place to voice your concerns about the running of the club and teams for 2017. New members are also invited to attend. Meeting commences at 7.30 p.m.

Colligan Emmetts NEW YEAR’S GREETINGS I’d like to start off the first notes of 2017 by wishing you all a happy and prosperous New Year, here’s hoping it’ll be another good year for the ‘Black & Amber’! I hope you all enjoyed the festivities over the Christmas period, and here to 2017 and whatever unfolds, have a good one folks! VICTORY SOCIAL & 25 YEAR REUNION – DATE FOR YOUR DIARY The club will hold a victory social (to celebrate the success of Western and Co. Junior football titles in 2016) and 25 year reunion of the 1992 Colligan hurling team who captured the Co. Intermediate hurling title. This eagerly anticipated event will take place at 8:00 pm on Saturday, January 28th in the Park Hotel. Tickets €30 per person, and will be available from any committee member. Music on the night will be provided by Jamtarts, followed by D.J. ‘til late. Be sure to put the date in your diaries! This is certainly a night not to be missed. FUNRAISING RUN/WALK There was a great turnout at the fabulous Waterford Greenway on Sunday morning last (New Year’s Day) for the sponsored run walk, in aid of the Irish Kidney Association and indeed John David & Deirdre Casey who are both recovering well following their successful operation and here’s wishing both a very speedy recovery. It was great to see such a great crowd turn up and

Carriglea who lost to Knockanore in the Western Allianz Cumann na mBunscol Roinn C football final. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

show their support for JD and Deirdre, joggers and walkers enjoyed the beautiful scenery along the magnificent amenity that is the Greenway, and there was even a few “Black & Amber” jerseys seen along the route too! A big thanks to all our players, supporters, and members who turned up and to all who gave sponsorship for a very worthy cause. To GSK, and particularly our own Richie Walsh, a massive thanks for all your great organising and co-operation throughout what turned out to be a great fundraiser for the Irish Kidney Association, and for John David and Deirdre. Thanks as well to West Waterford Athletic Club who helped promote the event on their Social media sites, and indeed I must say a big thanks to James Veale who was on hand to grab some great photos, which can be viewed on the club Facebook page. Overall, a great morning, and once again hats off to all involved. Anybody who still needs to return a sponsorship card, please give to either Richie Walsh or Kevin Casey, many thanks. NATIONAL CLUB DRAW 2017 Tickets are currently on sale for the 2017 National Club draw, with all monies going towards to the club so this can be a big money spinner; we’d ask everyone to please show your support. There are 14 top class prizes up for grabs, including the 1st prize – a new Opel Corsa, a full list of prizes can be viewed by logging onto www.gaa.ie/nationalclubdraw. Tickets are available from any of the club officers, or committee members, support your local GAA Club, with an opportunity for us to raise up to €20,000. ALL-IRELAND U-21 MEDAL PRESENATION It was a great honour to be in attendance at the Park Hotel on Sunday night last (New Year’s Day) for the Waterford U-21 All-Ireland hurling victory banquet, and I’d like to congratulate our own Ross Browne on receiving Munster and AllIreland medals following a great year by this exceptional team who played some swashbuckling throughout an exciting game. Well done to all once again, and indeed to Ross – a great honour for the club. I’ve no doubt that the Liam McCarthy Cup isn’t too far away, and who knows what might happen in 2017. ST. PATS JUVENILE GAA CLUB, A.G.M. TONIGHT The Annual General Meeting of St. Pats Juvenile GAA Club will take place this evening (Wednesday) in Bohadoon Sports Hall, commencing at 7:00 p.m. All members welcome along, anybody interested in getting involved with any of our teams, please feel free to come along. BE THERE, and HAVE YOUR SAY!

Clashmore/Kinsaelbeg CONDOLENCES On behalf of everybody in the club we send our heartfelt sympathy to the Foley family, Springfield Lower, on their great loss. Damien will be sadly missed by his parents, Mike and Majella, his brothers Darren and Jack, sister Molly, his grandparents, aunts and uncles, neighbours and friends. Damien was a treasured and talented member of our club. His talent was evident from an early age. He won three underage school finals with the Kinsalebeg N.S. team. He was a key member of the club's underage team which won the U-11Town & Country League, U-12 Western

Hurling Competition and U-14 County Hurling Competition. He played a vital role in the minor team which won both the hurling and football finals in 2010. Damien was also a member of the very successful minor football team which won the county final in 2012. He will be sadly missed by his team mates, mentors, friends and everybody at the club. Suaimhneas síoraí dá anam dílis.

Kilrossanty Kilrossanty CLOTTO SPONSORED BY KILL AGRICULTURAL LTD. CLOTTO RESULTS No winner of a Jackpot of €11,200 held in next Clotto held in Crotty’s Inn, Leamybrien, Tuesday night 27/12/16. Numbers were 7, 8, 14, 17. €30 won by the following people Pat Keating, Comeragh; Noel Power, Robertstown. Seller’s prize of €30 Ger Walsh, Furraleigh. CLOTTO SPONSORED BY KILL AGRICULTURAL LTD. CLOTTO RESULTS No winner of a Jackpot of €11,300 held in Micilin’s Bar, Kilrossanty, on Sunday night, 1st January, 2017. Numbers were 2, 6, 21, 25. €30 won by the following people: Benny Crotty, Connors Family, Bellaheen. Seller’s prize of €30 Pa Barron, Glendalligan. Next Clotto to be held in Crotty’s Inn, Leamybrien, 8/1/17 for a Jackpot of €11,300. On duty on the night Sean Lennon and Robbie Whelan. HAPPY NEW YEAR Kilrossanty GAA would like to wish all its members and supporters and players a happy and prosperous new year. AGM This year’s AGM will take place this coming Saturday, 7th January, 2017 in St. Brigid’s Hall, Kilrossanty at 8 p.m. JUVENILE AGM The Juvenile AGM will take place in The Clubhouse in Leamybrien on Tuesday, 10th January at 8 p.m.

Kill Kill LONG PUCK 2016 The weather was in our favour last Tuesday, as our 15th Long Puck proved a fantastic success. We had 63 teams out, as they travelled from all over the county, with over 20 clubs represented. After the 2.5 mile course was completed the overall winners came from Clonea, as Aaron Gleeson, Ciaran Power and James Power blitzed the route. In the runners-up spot were the Dunhill trio of Tomas Casey, Jamie and Damien Burns, who are always in the running. Meanwhile, the Kavanagh girls of Niamh, Rebecca and Siobhan finally won the Ladies section after many years of trying. Well done girls. Our many thanks to everyone who helped out, especially our stewards Eddie Power, Sean O’Regan, Brian Hennessy, Keith and Donal Flynn and to Nicholas Power for all his help. To Shelly Murphy, Aoife Mooney and Sinead Murphy who took the entries and the cards at the finish. Our pit stop always goes down well and as usual Hannah and Tom Power had the soup and hot toddies ready for the punters. Finally many thanks to all our sponsors, Tara Crystal, Jones

Oil, Kirwans Bar, Pisces Restaurant, Acravet, C & M and Zoetis. CLUB LOTTO The club held their last lotto draw before Christmas last Monday night, 19th Dec. in Dunphys Bar, where a jackpot worth 10k was up for grabs. Unfortunately we had no winner, nor had we any Match 3’s, so the two lucky dip prizes went to Emma Gallagher, Castlecroddick, and Tommy Wall Jnr. Bunmahon. Each received €25 for their troubles. The numbers drawn on this occasion were 10, 17, 22, 27. As it was the last draw for the year we decided to raffle 10 prizes of €100 for our loyal patrons. The following are the winners of a €100 each. Lucy Mulcahy, Sleveen; Donegal Syndicate c\o Kirwans; Brian Hennessy, Ballyvoholane; Nicholas Casey, Knockane; Ena Bell, Boatstrand; Geraldine Hennessy, Kilmurrin; Richard Lennon, Carrigeen; Peg Kiely, New Houses; Mary Fitzgerald, Sleveen, and Keith Kirwan\Davin Hogan c\o The Pub. ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Just a reminder to all our members that our AGM goes ahead this Friday night, 6th January in our meeting rooms. Hope to see as many as possible there to plan ahead for the new season.

Tulach an Iarainn SPONSORED BY McGRATH'S CHEMIST TALLOW GAA LOTTO SPONSORED BY KEARNEY'S RESTAURANT, TALLOW (December 27th) Numbers drawn were: 3, 7, 18, 22. No winner. Consolation prizes: Jimmy Cronin, John Sice, Michael Burke, Rosemarie Prescott. Promoter: Gretta Power. Next draw: January 3rd, The Hotel. Jackpot: €13,000. Our weekly lotto tickets are available to purchase from any of the promoters or any businesses around the town. Please support our local lotto. Tickets are €2. DEISE DRAW Any money for the Deise Draw can be given to Fada or any of the promoters. Membership is currently due, please contact membership officer Timmy Sheehan to make a payment. Croke Park club tickets to be returned to Kate Ryan. LATE KATHLEEN SICE, RIP Tallow GAA club extends deepest sympathy to the Sice family on the sad passing of Mrs. Kathleen Sice over the Christmas period. For many years the Ladies Committee as it was then known, was the driving force behind fundraising activities for the club, and in particular our underage teams. Kathleen Sice was a key member of this committee, a tireless worker and constant supporter of Tallow school and club teams wherever they played. Her family wore the club colours with distinction on the field of play and continue to give valued support. She was of a generation whose loyalty to club and community was unstinting and irreplaceable. As a mark of respect and appreciation club members and pupils of Scoil Mhuire formed a guard of honour at her funeral and the club flag was flown at half mast. With the passing of time, the contribution of Kathleen Sice and others of her generation is often overlooked and not given due recognition.

In the annals of our club history she will be fondly remembered. Ar dheis lamh De go raibh si. COMHBHRON We wish to extend sympathy to Agnes Curley and family on the death of her brother Tommy Whelan. To the family and friends of Tom Cotter, Conna. To the O’Brien family, Curraglass, on the sad passing of Helen O’Brien. To the Grey family on the death of John Grey, late of Barrack Street. GET READY LADS We thank all of our management teams of 2016 who worked tirelessly in preparation of club teams for championship. As any volunteer in any organisation or club will tell you it can often be a thankless job – you wouldn’t be at it if you were looking for thanks. I have tremendous respect and regard for those who step up to the plate. 2017 brings new challenges for all of us. We drive on with renewed vigour and determination! We rally to the cause yet again! We have new management teams at junior and senior level and if you’ve nothing positive to offer in support of them and our players then maybe you should apply for a visa to North Korea. Basically we all need to step up our game! We wish all our members and supporters at home and abroad a Happy New Year. SPONSORS We would like to thank McGrath’s Pharmacy and Kearney’s Restaurant and Catering for their continued support.

Lismore (KINDLY SPONSORED BY EAMONN'S PLACE) NEW YEAR’S GREETINGS Wishing all our members and supporters at home and abroad a very happy New Year. Thanks for your continued support to Lismore GAA Cub. Also sincere thanks to the editor and staff of this paper for their help and support in printing of the notes during the year. SYMPATHY Lismore GAA Club extends its sympathy to the relatives and friends of Tom Whelan, Townspark, Lismore, who died recently. Also, to the relatives of Josie Roby, Devonshire Cottages, Lismore, who died recently. May they both rest in peace. THANKS FOR SUPPORTING FUNDRAISER Sincere thanks to all who supported us in our fundraiser disco on Stephen's Night. This proved to be a very sucessfull night and thanks to committee members who helped at the door on the night. REMINDER National Draw tickets are on sale now at €10 each and all funds raised from tickets sold go back into club funds. So get your ticket now and be in with a chance of winning some fantastic prizes. CONGRATULATIONS Congrats to club Member Donie on a nice lotto win before Christmas. Enjoy. ALL-IRELAND INTERMEDIATE SEMI-FINAL IMPORTANT DATE FOR DIARY Lismore V Ahascragh Fohenagh on SUNDAY, 29th of JANUARY, 2017, IN O'CONNOR PARK, TULLAMORE.

GAA CLUB NOTES

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6th January, 2017

Naomh Chartaigh Naomh Chartaigh Juveniles Juveniles (Limore/Ballysaggart Juvenile GAA ) NEW YEAR’S GREETINGS Happy New Year to all our members and supporters at home and away. Here's hoping for another successful year on the playing field. THANKS Thanks to the editor and staff of this paper for their help in printing the notes during the year, very much appreciated by all in the club.

Stradbally 50/50 DRAW Congrats to the O’Reilly Family, who won €175 on 50/50 Draw last Sunday night. We would like to thank everyone who supported our draw throughout 2016. Thanks also to the people who promoted draw and sold envelopes. SYMPATHY Sincere sympathy to the following families who suffered bereavements during the last week: The Galvin Family on the death of Pat Galvin, The Morrissey Family on the death of Bill Morrissey and the D’Arcy Family on the tragic death of their beautiful daughter and sister, Mairéad. May they all rest in peace. NEW YEAR WISHES Stradbally GAA would like to wish all their members a happy and healthy year ahead for 2017.

Shamrocks Shamrocks REUNION 2016 Last Friday's Shamrocks reunion drew a sizeable crowd to the K.G.K Hall in Knockanore and to the church for Mass earlier. As an exercise in getting together it went very well with everyone getting a chance to renew acquaintances and some were meeting up for the first time in a while. In the course of the evening presentations were made to Johnny Baldwin, on the occasion of his retirement as Treasurer of the club, to Colm Roche who was a member of the Waterford U-21 team that steamrolled their way to an All Ireland win, John Paul Lucey who was also a part of that panel, and our minor footballers received medals from their county title win in 2015. The man who was responsible for organising the reunion was William Moloney who plies his trade these days in London. Will went to great lengths to make sure everything went smoothly, and we thank Will for all his efforts. From his point of view he wishes to thank all the following: Fr. Pat Condon P.P. and Mary Hayes for allowing the use of the Church, to Fr. Shane O'Neill for saying the mass, to Maeve and Doireann Ormonde, Emma, Stephen, and Rachel Roche, and Daniel Moloney for the prayers of the faithful, and Ivan O'Neill for doing the readings. Thanks also to Na Seamroga C.L.G., Liam Ahearne, James Tobin, Ann O'Keeffe, Elaine Ahearne, Kieran Ahearne, Mike O'Neill, Martin O'Keeffe, and everyone who helped out with the catering in the Hall after the mass. Antoine Lynch, Secretary of the Hall Committee, and Catherine who is the Secretary of the National School. Thanks also to photographer Bridget and Jim Aherne, and sponsor Angela Moloney USA.

Coolnasmear beaten by Glenbeg in the Western Allianz Cumann na mBunscoil Girls Roinn B Football final in Cappoquin. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

Cappoquin/Affane Cappoquin/Affane THREE TO ANSWER 1, Name the only two clubs to win All-Ireland intermediate hurling titles and also contest the senior decider? 2, What club have won both All-Ireland junior and senior hurling championships? 3,Name the sides to contest the 2015 Leinster club senior hurling final? LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS 1, Kickhams Creggan (Armagh) defeated Ballysaggart in the 2014All Ireland club junior hurling final 2, Modeligo defeated Castlemartyr (Cork) in the 2014 Munster junior club hurling final. 3, Mickey O’Connor, Cappoquin and Waterford won All-Ireland minor / senior hurling championship and also defeated Kerry in Munster senior football championship as a player and owned a winner of the Irish Grand National. CLUB LOTTO Monday, 1st January, Jackpot €15,000. No winner. Numbers Drawn: 5. 8. 24. 26. Consolation Winners €20 Killian O'Sullivan, Affane; Brendan Casey, Green St.; Bridget Murray, Main St.; Chris Purcell, Affane; Jimmy Dalton, Aglish.

Glenbeg beaten by Tallow in the Western Allianz Cumann na mBunscoil Boys Roinn B Football final in Cappoquin. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

Pictured is James Murray receiving his Tallow GAA Club award (Hurler of the Year) from Terence McSweeney. Treasurer Johnny Baldwin receiving a gift from the Shamrocks G.A.A. Club

DEADLINE FOR SPORTS NEWS

8.00 p.m. each Monday evening (Including Bank Holidays) Why not e-mail your Sports news to the‘Dungarvan Observer’? Our new address:

Colm Roche receiving a token from former Déise star Eoin Murphy.

sport@dungarvanobserver.ie

Bhaile Mhic Airt, An Sean Phobal who lost to Stradbally in the Western Allianz Cumann na mBunscoil Roinn D Girls football final. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6th January, 2017

GAA

Waterford All-Ireland U-21 Victory Banquet. Michaél Harney with Lauren McInerney. [Noel Browne] Waterford All-Ireland U-21 Victory Banquet – Park Hotel Sunday, 1st Jan. 2017. William Hahessy pictured with Ciara, Aoife, Tom, Aisling, Gerard, Marcella and Kate Hahessy. [Noel Browne]

Ollie Wilkinson presenting Niall Fives with a trophy for his success with Waterford U-21’s. Waterford All-Ireland U-21 Victory Banquet – Park Hotel Sunday, 1st Jan. 2017. Anne Ryan, Waterford GAA Supporters Club (Dublin) and Ken Begley, Waterford U-21 team coach driver with Colm Roche, Shane Bennett, Michaél Harney, Austin Gleeson, Conor Prunty, Patrick Curran and Conor Gleeson. [Noel Browne]

Pictured is Jordan Henley receiving his Tallow GAA Club award (Young Hurler of the Year) from Stuart Barry.

Ballysaggart GAA Club – Michael Clancy makes a presentation to Stephen Bennett in recognition of his success with Waterford as the All-Ireland winning Under 21 team.

Waterford All-Ireland U-21 Victory Banquet – Park Hotel Sunday, 1st Jan. 2017. The Munster Council Chairman, Jerry O’Sullivan who presented the AllIreland and Munster U-21 medals is pictured with team members, Pat Curran and Adam Farrell, joint captains, Barry Whelan, Mark Shanahan, Dermot Ryan and Colm Roche. [Noel Browne]

Waterford All-Ireland U-21 Victory Banquet – Park Hotel Sunday, 1st Jan. 2017. Michael Kearney pictured with Jim, Mary, Patrick, Brian, Kieran and James [Noel Browne] Kearney.

WATERFORD ALL-IRELAND U-21 VICTORY BANQUET

Waterford All-Ireland U-21 Victory Banquet – Park Hotel Sunday, 1st Jan. 2017. Waterford U-21 player Ross Browne pictured with family members, Teresa, Richie, Sara and Sandra Browne and Laura Duggan. [Noel Browne]

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6th January, 2017

Waterford U-21 joint captain Adam Farrell with Paul, Caroline and Kellie Farrell.

All-Ireland U-21 medal winner Michaél Harney pictured with Liam, Martha and Sibéal Harney and Lauren McInerney.

[Noel Browne]

Pierce Flynn, Proprietor Park Hotel pictured with Sean Power, Waterford U-21 manger with his daughter Erin Power. [Noel Browne]

Waterford U-21 midfielder Mark O’Brien pictured with Maria, Andrew, Anne, Catherine and Killian O’Brien and Katie Bohill.

Waterford U-21 players Barry Whelan and Peter Hogan with Mick Whelan and Coleman Hogan.

[Noel Browne]

William Hahessy with Roisín Murphy.

[Noel Browne]

Mikey Kearney with Aoife Hannon and Brian Kearney.

[Noel Browne]

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6th January, 2017

WATERFORD ALL-IRELAND U-21 VICTORY BANQUET

Waterford All-Ireland U-21 Victory Banquet – Park Hotel Sunday, 1st January, 2017. The Waterford U-21 All-Ireland winning team, mentors and backroom staff pictured in the Park Hotel at the Victory Banquet on Sunday night last. [Noel Browne]

Munster and All-Ireland U-21 Hurling medals presented at packed Park Hotel CHAIRMAN of the Munster Council Gerry O’Sullivan from Cork presented Waterford’s under 21 hurlers with their Munster and All-Ireland under 21 hurling medals in front of a full house at the Park Hotel last Sunday night. It was certainly a gala night and one which will be remembered for a long time by all who attended. Deputy Mayor of Waterford City and County Council Damien Geoghegan, himself a strong supporter of Waterford hurling over the years, paid tribute to the players and all concerned with the county’s second All-Ireland title win in this age group and he also complimented the players’ clubs for all their work behind the scenes over the years that helped bring the players to this stage in their careers. He concluded by congratulating the players and their mentors on behalf of the people of Waterford. Chairman of the Munster Council Jerry O’Sullivan was

lavish in his praise of the Deise victory: ‘’2016 was a fantastic year for Waterford hurling. The team played an exhilarating brand of hurling and they were most worthy and deserving winners of the Munster and All-Ireland Titles. Everybody loves to see goals and the team scored spectacular goals, one better than the next. The county took a number of knocks along the way in 2016 but the players showed what they were made off by their ability to take those knocks and to get going again.’’ Chairman of the County Board Paddy Joe Ryan paid tribute to the presentation night organising committee of Brendan Tobin, Neil Moore, Emer Barry, John Sheehan and Pat Casey. MC for the evening Kieran O’Connor interviewed a number of the players as they received their medals from the chairman of the Munster Council and also Paul Flynn and team manager Sean

Power who stressed that the mentality of the players and they way they carried themselves produced the results they received. Presentations were made to the following who were involved with the 2016 under 21 campaign. Dr. Brendan McCann (medical), Colin Taylor (chartered physio), Benji Whelan (strength and conditioning), Tomas O Cadhla, Pat Bennett, Donie Mac Murchu, Anthony and Shane Coleman (statistics), Anthony Flanagan (physio), Philly Flynn (goalie coach), Pa Kearney (hurleys) and Tony Madigan and Christy Power (first Aid). Team Secretary: Nicky Keating, selectors : Kieran O’Gorman, Paul Flynn, Eoin Kelly. Team Manager; Sean Power. Jerry O’Sullivan presented the players with their medals in groups of five as follows: 1. Shane Bennett, Stephen Bennett, Christy Breathnach, Ross Browne and Jamie De Baruin.

2. Don Devine for Tom Devine, John Sheehan for Jack Fagan, Niall Fives, Robbie Flynn and DJ Foran. 3. David Gartland, Austin Gleeson, Conor Gleeson, William Hahessy, Micheal Harney. 4. Jordan Henley, Peter Hogan, Mikey Kearney, Darragh Lyons and John Paul Lucey. 5. Andy Molumby, Mark O’Brien, Edmond O’Halloran, Billy O’Keeffe, Gavin Power and Conor Prunty. 6. Colm Roche, Dermot Ryan, Mark Shanahan, Barry Whelan, Patrick Curran and Adam Farrell. Tomas Rua O Cadhla and Damien Walsh showed the presentations and interviews on the big screens while Cian O’Halloran produced a very well received video of the year’s action. Following the presentations DJ John O’Shea conducted a very enjoyable social evening as the celebration of Waterford’s All-Ireland victory was concluded in style.

Waterford U-21 manager Sean Power being presented with an engraved vase by Waterford County Board Chairman, Paddy Joe Ryan. [Noel Browne]

Peter Hogan and Rachel McDonald.

[Noel Browne]

IRISH KIDNEY ASSOCIATION RUN/WALK

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6th January, 2017

Hundreds turn out for New Year’s Day Greenway Run in aid of the Irish Kidney Association THE New Year got off to an active start on Sunday 1 January as hundreds turned out to support the New Year’s Day Run/Walk along the scenic Deise Greenway in aid of the Irish Kidney Association. Starting from Ballinroad village just three miles outside Dungarvan town, the event had options for runners, walkers and families and the energetic crowd cheerfully ran and walked off the Christmas excess. The New Year’s Day event was organised by GSK staff with help from West Waterford Athletic Club and Colligan GAA Club. 100% of the funds raised will go to the Irish Kidney Association. Thank you to everyone who participated. The event was a big success. Thanks also to those who helped make it possible including Sasha Bulfin, Tomas Walsh Building Contractors, The Bean Machine, Ormond Cafe, Flahavans Mills, Centra Abbeyside, Dungarvan Rugby Club and Ballinroad United AFC.

Pictured are Amanda Mansfield, Anne O'Donovan and Catriona Kiely.

Pictured are Aisling Nolan, Sharon Kiely. Liz Callaghan, Aidan Callaghan, Ellie Kiely, Donnchadh Callaghan and in pram Baby Jack Nolan who took part in the Run/Walk in aid of the Irish Kidney Association on New Year's Day from Ballinroad along the Waterford Greenway.

Pictured are members of Colligan GAA club who took part in the Run/Walk in aid of the Irish Kidney association on New Year's Day from Ballinroad along the Waterford Greenway. Included are J.D., Deirdre and Mairead Casey and Clodagh and Ronan Casey.

Pictured are Tomas Collins, Killian Lyons and Warren Hogan who were part of the team who looked after the stewarding at the Run/Walk in aid of the Irish Kidney Association on New Year's Day from Ballinroad along the Waterford Greenway.

Pictured are Bobby Lyons, J.D Casey and Michael Mansfield who were part of the organising committee of the Run/Walk in aid of the Irish Kidney Association on New Year's Day from Ballinroad along the Waterford Greenway.

Willing helpers and collectors who were part of the Run/Walk in aid of the Irish Kidney Association on New Year's Day from Ballinroad along the Waterford Greenway. l-r Michael Mansfield, Richie Walsh, Fiona Kirwan, Bobby Lyons and Sinead Dalton.

Pictured are a group of runners who who took part in the Run/Walk in aid of the Irish Kidney Association on New Year's Day from Ballinroad along the Waterford Greenway. l-r: Sharon Higgins, Denise Nugent, Sharon Nugent, Ruth Landy Ryan, Claire Kennedy and Mick Concannon.

Pictured are Ciara O'Brien and Oisin Power who took part in the Run/Walk in aid of the Irish Kidney Association on New Year's Day from Ballinroad along the Waterford Greenway.

Pictured are Joe Sheehan and his granddaughter Sinead Cusack who took part in the Run/Walk in aid of the Irish Kidney Association on New Year's Day from Ballinroad along the Waterford Greenway.

SOCCER

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6th January, 2017

Stradbally FC FOOTBALL RETURNS Waterford Leagues, both Junior and Schoolboys returns to action this weekend. See 'Fixtures' below for details. LOTTO There was no Jackpot winner in the Lotto Draw held in O'Mahonys, Durrow last week. Numbers drawn were: 3- 8- 14- 17. €25 to: Ger Crowley, John Crotty, Breda Cummins. Promoter’s prize: Mary Sheehan. The next Lotto Draw takes place on Sunday night (January 8th) in Whelan’s Bar and the Jackpot Prize on offer will be €4,900. Thanks to all who continue to support our Lotto. CHRISTMAS DAY SWIM A bumper crowd converged on Stradbally Cove for the Annual Christmas Day Swim, all anxious to get the yearly wash before the dinner. All was in place with Ben Dunphy as lifeguard keeping everyone safe, ably assisted by Helper Elves Tadhg C and Liam C. After the mad dash for the Atlantic

Ocean was over and all were safely back at base, Mary S and Diarmuid C were manning the refreshment station and had Aprés Swim Hot Drinks and Soup for all. People were most generous in their donations to the Collection Buckets and just over €1,000 was raised, in aid of St. John's Special School, Dungarvan, a most worthy cause. Mile buíochas to all those who generously supplied and sponsored soup and hot drinks, namely Whelan’s Bar, Cunningham’s Shop, The Cove Bar, Farm Relief Services (Kilmacthomas) and O'Mahony’s, Durrow. Thanks to all who helped out and most especially our swimmers. See you all in 2017. ACADEMY & LITTLE DRIBBLERS Academy & Little Dribblers returns for 2017 on Saturday at 10.30am. All children, and their parents, are welcome to attend. BIRTHDAY BOYS Big shout out for Junior team

players Pa Collins and Ger Crowley, who both celebrated their 21st birthdays recently. ASTROTURF AstroTurf Pitch is now available to hire. For details contact Tadhg at 087 2306841. LAST MAN STANDING The club's latest fund raising initiative, a Last Man Standing will be launched at the weekend. Gerry will be at Academy, Schoolboy and Junior games at the weekend to discuss, find promoters and sign up punters. You can talk to him at 087 2245712 and you can follow proceedings on our Facebook page at 'Stradbally AFC'. SYMPATHY We extend sympathy to the D'Arcy family on the death of Mairéad recently. May she rest in peace. FIXTURES Saturday, January 7th Waterford Junior League: Stradbally v Ballinroad 2 p.m. Under 14 League: Waterford Crystal v Stradbally 12.30 p.m.

Dungarvan United FC HAPPY NEW YEAR We wish the very best to all our players, coaches and supporters for the coming year. Thank you to all those who have supported us by way of weekly lotto or supporting any fundraising drives and we hope you continue to

in 2017. FIXTURES Friday 6.1.17 4th Div. Home to Southend 7.00pm (Main pitch). Saturday 7.1.17 U-12A Away to Ferrybank 10.30 a.m. U-14B Home to Kilmac 12.30pm

(Glass pitch). U-16A Away to Ferrybank 2.15 p.m. 3rd Away to Dunmore 2.00 p.m. Premier Home to Saviours 7.00 p.m (Main pitch). Sunday 8.1.17 U-18B Home to Villa 2.00 p.m. (Glass pitch).

Ardmore FC UNDER 12 LEAGUE Mogeely 3; Ardmore 2. Our U-12s played the last league game of 2016 on New Year’s Eve away to Mogeely at Railway Park, Mogeely. In a very even contest the game twod and frowed with Mogeely gaining a 6th minute lead only for Ardmore to level the contest in the 23rd minute with a retaken penalty. So 1-1 at

half-time. Ardmore were pinned back in their own half for long periods of the second half but still managed to go ahead with a scrambled goal. However, Mogeely levelled from a corner and went ahead with five minutes remaining and won on a scoreline Mogeely 3; Ardmore 2. Both teams meet again to do it all over again in the cup next Saturday in Dysert Park, Ardmore,

in what is expected to be a keenly contested match. The Ardmore team that played on New Year’s Eve were: Diarmuid Mahony, Darragh Fitzgerald, Victor Saneki, Oisin Nugent, Conor Moore, Aideen Reilly, Coran Mitchell, Conor French and Andrew Hourigan and Darragh Regan. On behalf of everyone at the club we'd like to wish you all a happy and prosperous 2017.

Pictured is Kacper Zajac who over the Christmas break, was invited to attend Under 15 National development training on Wednesday, at the AUL Soccer Complex, Clonshaugh, Co. Dublin. Well done Kapi.

Pictured are Dungarvan United FC members enjoying pre Christmas drinks where a good night was had by all. Happy New Year.

Abbeyside Ballinacourty Community Games Swimming Entries. Welcome back to another year. All events start much earlier this year so entries for all events will be due earlier for County Finals. SWIMMING COUNTY FINALS are in January so all entries must be into to YVONNE 087 1339012 by Friday at the latest. Photo shows swimmers at the National Finals in Athlone 2016.

Pictured are Dungarvan United FC members enjoying pre Christmas drinks where a good night was had by all. Happy New Year.

GENERAL SPORT

HAPPY NEW YEAR Things are slowly getting back to normal as I pen these notes on the first day of 2017! Most of the celebrations are over, the festive eating is done and the legs and bodies are starting to feel the extra miles put in over the holidays. Hopefully, Santa was good to everyone and brought plenty of cycling related gifts! So before we get back to business as usual on behalf of the committee of DCC may I wish all club members, families, sponsors and supporters a very happy and successful new year. HOLIDAY SPINS The weather was great for cycling over the holiday period with groups out most days over the week between Christmas and New Year as people took advantage of the break from work. Some serious kilometres were put in with nearly 10,000 kilometres being logged on the club Strava page alone! Major kudos to George MacLeod and John Hodge who put in nearly 650 kilometres each over the last week and also Niamh O’Donovan who logged 500 kilometres. It's great to see so much cycling going on even if yours truly was only looking on with a touch of jealousy due to a serious dose of manflu! St. Stephens’ Day saw six cyclists in Group 2 out for a nice steady spin. On what turned out to a lovely sunny day, the route was Durrow, Crehana, Kilmac and home via Seafield. Around 85km covered at a sensible pace in ideal conditions, with a bit of a headwind home from Seafield keeping things honest. Good to see plenty of cyclists on the roads testing out the latest deliveries from Santa. Over the following week the usual Tuesday and Thursday spins saw numbers swell due to the holidays and word on the grapevine has it that Frank stopped for coffee! Group 1 had a few out nearly every morning of the week with plenty of solo spins taking place too. There was way too many to report on so let's fast forward to Sunday the 1st where not surprisingly saw the smallest numbers out. Group 1 did a slight change of route as they felt as if they had a head wind all day. The group headed for Tallow and the climb to Youghal was taken at a pace that burned off any leftover roses. On the N25 the group turned at Piltown to head for Ardmore. The 8 in the group then turned for Old Parish

and home. 4 of the group saw sense and finished with a solid 3 hrs in their pockets. The other 4 clocked in a extra 40 - 60 minutes for good measure, with an average speed of 31 kmph. Group 2 only had 2 cyclists starting out, but were joined by another at the 5 X Roads for some of the spin. Bunmahon, Kill, Dunhill, Waterford and home the N25 was the route on a very windy day. A steady tempo was the order of the day, into the headwind on the outward journey, but with some bit of wind assistance on the return Just over 90km covered, at an average of just over 28.5 kph ensuring a nice workout to kick off the year. The Back 3rd group had 6 out and the back roads were the order of the day seeking shelter from the strong wind on offer, the spin headed through Stradbally, Ballydawne, Bunmahon then the climb up Ballinasissla and on through Georgetown to Dunphys pub, Newtown, Carrolls cross, Ballydurn and Fews where the group picked up a welcome tail wind to Lemybrien where the first coffee of the new year went down a treat, then it was onto Durrow and home with 85 kilometres done with 1000m of climbing and an average speed of 27kph. Group 3 started the new year with a smaller group than usual and with strong headwinds the going would be best described as difficult. When the captain suggested that the group shortened the spin and avoid the planned trip up through Millstreet there were no arguments. So the group of 6 arrived back in Dungarvan with 60 kilometres done at a pace they thought better not to share! On a bright brisk New Year's morning fourteen Group 4 riders gathered at the Civic Offices with a little apprehension in the air as words hilly spin today and strong winds blowing down Colligan circulated. Nevertheless, the group including newcomers Elia and Cal, rolled out and headed for Master McGrath monument before heading up Colligan. Little talk of Christmas was heard apart from the word overindulgence as the strong breeze and hill quietened most of the group. Beary's cross was a welcome sight as climbing was over for a while and they got a chance to enjoy the sun shining down on them. As the group headed back

Dungarvan Golf Club. David Hayes, PGA Professional sponsor, presenting Eugene Slater, winner, with his Monthly Medal for October. Included is Declan Walsh, Captain. [Pat Crowley]

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6th January, 2017

through Millstreet, Nora's home country, the sun was dancing through the trees playing tricks with our eyes and was tough going at times. Crossing the Dungarvan road heading for Whitechurch / Kereen a good pace was set with the thought of coffee in Aglish very welcome before the climb up the mountain road out of Clashmore to N25. For a brief moment panic stations set in as no sign of life was noted at Hurley's shop and word went out keep going but then word came "it’s open" and we gladly did a u-turn. Following recharging of batteries the group took on the mountain climb and banter was good and all the group made light work of the long climb. On reaching the N25 those with responsibilities at home headed down the Sweep for home while some of the people with no one to answer to cycled into Ring and returned home to Dungarvan. A good start to New Year with a pace of 22.3kph, reduced sensibly because of strong wind and two hills. May I take this occasion to say on behalf of Group 4 thanks to our Road Captain Padraig and all his assistants and happy cycling to all for 2017. (Tony S) Group 5 took a break on New Years Day but were heading out on the bank holiday Monday instead. CONDOLENCES The club would like to extend deepest sympathies to club member John Coleman and to all the Coleman family on the death of John's father Declan 'Deckie' Coleman over the Christmas period. RIP. WEDDING BELLS Congratulations and best wishes for the future to club member Richie Halpin who married his fiancé Emer Hickey on December 30th. 2017 EVENTS Planning for the clubs events over the coming year will be starting in earnest next week with the first committee meeting of the new year. The first big event on the cards is our club open race which is being held this year on Sunday, March 26th. It will be all hands on deck that Sunday with no club spins running and as many club members as possible are asked to help out for a few hours on the day. Further details will follow. Our summer series will be back in May also and any other events taking place will be advertised in advance.

Photograph shows Ola Jopek, Park Hotel presenting the November Sports Star Award to Patricia Jackman. included are John C. Flood, Joint Chairman Gaultier Camogie Club and Neil Gough, Adjudicator. [Sean Byrne//Deise Media]

First Park Hotel Award for Patricia Jackman A PLAYER of the match display as she posted a brilliant personal tally of 1-9 in Gaultier’s Munster Intermediate Camogie Final win over Nenagh Eire Og of Tipperary, was enough to see Waterford camogie star, Patricia Jackman, take the Park Hotel Waterford Sports Star of the Month Award for November. It is a first Park Hotel Award for the Gaultier star who regularly commutes back to Waterford from her studies at the University of Lincoln all through the year to fulfill

her commitments to both Gaultier and the Waterford senior camogie team. ‘I’m delighted to win my first Park Hotel award and also to accept the award on behalf of Gaultier camogie club as it’s great that our Munster Final win has been recognised. It was a great day, a tough game and we were thrilled to come away with a narrow victory and it’s great also to see the sport of camogie recognised within our own county,” said Patricia Jackman.

Cunnigar Pitch & Putt Club Cunnigar Pitch & Putt HAPPY 2017! We wish all of our members, sponsors and everyone who supported us during 2016 a new year filled with prosperity, joy and contentment! ST. VINCENT DE PAUL CHARITY GAME We held a charity game for St Vincent de Paul on Wednesday, 28th December. It was a great success and we thank everyone who showed support to such a worthy cause on the day. Results: Nett: Jacinta O’Mahoney & Aidan O’Rourke Gross: Carmel Fitzgerald & John Carol GENTS MATCH PLAY SPONSORED BY THE SHAMROCK RESTAURANT This competition is in its second year running, thanks to the Shamrock Restaurant for kindly sponsoring the tournament. It is one of our club's largest gent's competitions. Although it is in the early stages of the competition, there are currently a total of 20 men taking part. We will keep you up to date as this popular tournament progresses. A.G.M. Our A.G.M will be held on the 22nd January, 2017 at 2 p.m. Please send any motions to our Secretary two weeks before the A.G.M. BONUS NUMBER 24th December number 35. Winner was Michael O'Mahoney. 31st December number 5. Winner was Bernie Troy. WEDNESDAY LADIES TOURNAMENTS Wednesday's games are back to normal. Names in for 10 a.m., tee off is at 10:30 a.m. SATURDAY TURKEY TOURNAMENTS Name in by 1 pm, tee off at 1:30

Corinne McGee (Chairperson) presenting the cheque for St. Vincent De Paul to Marie Forde. p.m. Net: Lorraine Troy, Kathleen Foran & Liam Simms. Gross: Corinne McGee (pro), Mary O’Neill & Patsy Hackett. DID YOU KNOW You can get juvenile, adult or family membership vouchers for 2017, ideal as presents. Please Note Our Course Is Now Closed To Green Fees Until The New Year. PITCH MARKS Leaving Pitch Marks when playing destroys the greens, it takes a lot of care and attention to keep them in pristine condition, so all members and green fees are asked to repair them and use the correct repairer when doing so. Do not use club heads to repair a pitch mark as this damages the green. Always use a pitch repairer. Also do not use the club head to take balls out of holes on greens as this damages the hole. PLEASE NOTE Anyone found to be teeing off onto greens not in play will be dealt with by the committee.

If anyone has an hour or two Mondays to Fridays to spare to give a hand helping on the course you would be very welcome. NEW MEMBERSHIP FEES We now have a new gate fob and camera system. All paid up members are now on this system. When the clubhouse is not manned, members who bring in non-members for a game are responsible for collecting green fees from them and giving them to a committee member. If these rules are not adhered to, action will have to be taken. Adults €85 Family€155 Over 60's €55 Juveniles €50 Life Members €35 Country Membership €50 plus fob PITCH AND PUTT IS FUN! Remember pitch and putt is only a game so go out and enjoy it.

GENERAL SPORT

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6th January, 2017

The Park Hotel Barracudas Swim Club BARRACUDAS finished off their year in style, with their annual Christmas Gala recenty. Plenty of fun and festivities, thoroughly enjoyed by all!! Winners of the Best Pyjamas were Sheileen Treacy (The GRINCH) and Ally Cunningham (The BAT). Winners of the Best Candle were Liam Organ, Jamie Coonan and Daniel Coonan. Best Attendance was Heather Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Reilly. The big award on the night was our Annual Swimmer of the Year, which is the highest achievement in the club. It includes hard work, great attendance, punctuality, all round great attitude! The winner for 2016 is John David White. John David now reaches the Wall of Fame along with, Ally Cunningham, Crea Frisby, Mark McGarry and Shauna Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Mahony. We would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a Happy New Year, and hopefully see you all in January.

John David White being presented with his prize having received the Annual Swimmer of the Year award.

Winners of the Best Pyjamas were Sheileen Treacy (The GRINCH) and Ally Cunningham (The BAT). Winners of the Best Candle were Liam Organ, Jamie Coonan and Daniel Coonan.

November & December Swim Awards at the Clonea Strand Hotel Leisure Centre Photographs by Sean Byrne

Ben Morrissey with his swim awards for November & December at the Clonea Strand Hotel Leisure Centre.

Grace Whelan with her swim awards for November & December at the Clonea Strand Hotel Leisure Centre.

Emily Nolan with her swim awards for November & December at the Clonea Strand Hotel Leisure Centre.

Darragh Walsh with his swim awards for November & December at the Clonea Strand Hotel Leisure Centre.

Dan Hayes with his swim awards for November & December at the Clonea Strand Hotel Leisure Centre.

Ciara Coffey with her swim awards for November & December at the Colonea Strand Hotel Leisure Centre.

Cian Spellman with his swim awards for November & December at the Clonea Strand Hotel Leisure Centre.

GENERAL SPORT

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 6th January, 2017

Talking Horses Cooper sidelined in Punchestown fall

Upcoming Fixtures Dundalk – Friday, 6th January 2017 (First Race 6.00). Cork – Saturday, 7th January 2017 (First Race 12.50). Naas – Sunday, 7th January 2017 (First Race 12.50). Dundalk - Friday, 13th January 2017 (First Race 5.30). Punchestown – Saturday, 14th January 2017 (First Race 12.25). Fairyhouse – Sunday, 15th January 2017 (First Race 1.00).

LEADING jockey Bryan Cooper is facing another spell on the sidelines and looks set to be out of action for upwards of six weeks after breaking his pelvis in a fall at Punchestown on New Year's Eve. The Cheltenham Gold Cup winning rider was unseated from Arkwrisht five fences from home in the beginners’ chase at the County Kildare venue and will learn more about his latest injury when he sees his specialist on Friday.

Tramore treble for David Mullins DAVID Mullins recorded the second treble of his career when dominating the card on Tramore on New Year's Day. The Aintree Grand National winning rider combined with Henry de Bromhead to win the featured Listed At The Races Chase on 2/1 chance Champagne West and had earlier partnered 5/4 favourite Adreamstillalive to take the 2m maiden hurdle for the Knockeen trainer. De Bromhead also recorded two winners at Fairyhouse on the same afternoon but Mullins went one better when landing the 2m handicap hurdle on Peculiar Genius, a 10/1 chance, for Enniscorthy, County Wexford trainer Paul Nolan. Brightest Flame race to a 20-length success at odds of 2/1 in the 2m5f maiden hurdle for Noel Meade and Ger Fox while 5/2 favourite Returntovendor recorded a 14-length victory for Monasterevin, County Kildare trainer Jarlath Fahey and Ian McCarthy in the handicap hurdle over the same distance. Mouse Morris enjoyed no shortage of success in 2016 and he got the New Year off to a winning start as the Barry Foley-ridden Catalaunian Fields won the rated novice chase at odds of 10/1 while 20/1 shot Line View landed the handicap chase for Bandon trainer James Dullea and the in-form Paul Townend.

Cancer Colour Fun Run raises over €70,000 THE Tipperary Cancer Colour Fun Run, hosted by Tipperary Racecourse, has raised over €70,000 for two very worthy charities - the Irish Cancer Society and Circle of Friends Cancer Support Centre, Tipperary. The unique run took place back in August and the atmosphere on the evening was electric, with over 500 runners of all ages from all over the country taking part. Former professional rugby player for Munster and Ireland, Alan Quinlan, was among the runners that took part on the day. Trainers and jockeys including Fozzy Stack, Kate Harrington, Billy Lee and Emmet McNamara, Gary Carroll and Shane Foley also got involved in the fun run after racing, as well as a large number of people working in the racing and breeding industries.

Limerick double for Stephen Mahon KILCOLGAN, County Galway trainer Stephen Mahon had a day to remember at Limerick on Wednesday where he saddled two winners. He won the veterans’ handicap chase with 10/1 chance Smokey Joe Joe who won with a little in hand under Luke Dempsey and followed up when Barry O’Neill partnered 8/1 shot Ballyluskey to a cosy success in the bumper. Gordon Elliott also enjoyed two winners at the meeting with Stone Hard landing the beginners’ chase at odds of 7/4 under Keith Donoghue and Missy Tata, the 2/5 favourite, making all the running to win the Listed hurdle for Daryl Jacob. Another to win at long odds-on was Coquin Mans who just took the 2m maiden hurdle for Willie Mullins and Paul Townend, the 1/3 favourite winning by just a head from 50/1 chance Surf Instructor. His trainer Henry de Bromhead and rider Dylan Robinson went one better in the 2m maiden hurdle which they won with 5/1 chance Island Remede. Pat Coffey, who trains in Nenagh, County Tipperary was responsible for the longest-priced winner of the day as Barrys Jack took the 2m5f handicap hurdle at odds of 22/1 under John Fitzpatrick.

Death of Pioneering Point-toPoint rider Jean O’Connor

Min and Ruby Walsh stroll to victory in the Racing Post Novice Chase (Grade 1) field Leopardstown. [Patrick McCann]

Min stars at Leopardstown on St. Stephen's Day THE Willie Mullins-trained Min stole the show on the opening day of the Leopardstown Christmas Festival when easily landing the Grade 1 novice chase in the hands of Ruby Walsh. His task was made far easier when Identity Thief, his main market rival, was pulled-up after the fifth fence having gone lame and the 4/5 favourite raced to a nine length success over Ordinary World. Mullins and Walsh had earlier taken the 2m maiden hurdle with 7/4 favourite Bunk Off Early and were also on the mark with the gambled-on 13/8 favourite Bapaume in the Grade 2 juvenile hurdle. Noel Meade and Sean Flanagan took the

2m2f maiden hurdle with 3/1 shot Joey Sasa who won in good style. There was a well-supported 5/1 winner of the handicap hurdle over the same distance as Concordin got up on the line to score for Kinsale’s Robert Tyner and Mark Walsh. Another County Cork winner was Lake Takapuna who landed the handicap chase for Jim Culloty and David Mullins at odds of 6/1. Joseph O'Brien teamed up with Tom Hamilton to land the bumper with 8/1 chance Aeglos. It was a first winner in Ireland for Hamilton who hails from Scotland.

JEAN O’Connor, who rode 26 point-to-point winners between 1965 and 1970 for trainers such as Tom Costello, passed away shortly before Christmas. She was 71. She rode her winners under her maiden name of Jean Moore. Jean is survived by her sons Paurick, a trainer, record breaking point-to-point jockey Derek and Sean and her daughter Loretta.

First Grade 1 success for Jack Kennedy AT 17 years and 250 days old, Jack Kennedy became the youngest jockey to ride the winner of a Grade 1 in Ireland when partnering Gordon Elliott’s Outlander to success in the Lexus Chase at Leopardstown on Thursday. The 11/1 chance only led on the run-in and raced clear to beat the 2015 winner Don Poli to give Elliott a 1-2 with Djakadam, the gambled-on 5/4 favourite back in third place.

Vroum Vroum Mag got back to winning ways when beating her stable companion Clondaw Warrior to win the Grade 1 Christmas Hurdle for Willie Mullins and Ruby Walsh. Mullins again dominated with four winners and he had earlier taken the 2m4f maiden hurdle with the Walsh-ridden 8/11 favourite Montalbano and the beginners’ chase with 6/4 favourite Bleu Et Rouge who was ridden by Barry Geraghty.

Carter McKay completed a four-timer for the champion trainer with a powerful display in the bumper under Patrick Mullins. Jim Culloty recorded his second winner of the week when 11/1 shot Electric Concorde took the 3m handicap hurdle in the hands of David Mullins. Jessica Harrington and Robbie Power took the novice handicap hurdle with Thirsty Work, the 6/1 chance beating Tudor City in good style.

Grade 1 winners for Harrington and De Bromhead THE four-day Leopardstown Christmas festival might have belonged to Willie Mullins but it was Jessica Harrington and Henry de Bromhead who took the major honours on the final day of the meeting on Thursday. Harrington combined with Robbie Power to land the Grade 1 Neville Hotels Novice Chase with the wellsupported and hugely promising Our

Duke who overcame some untidy jumping to narrowly account for the Drinmore Chase winner Coney Island. Petit Mouchoir had an easier time of it as he raced to a seven length victory over 2/5 favourite Nichols Canyon at odds of 6/1 for Henry de Bromhead and Bryan Cooper in the Grade 1 Ryanair Hurdle. Typically, Mullins didn’t leave

empty handed and he saddled two winners. Battleford, the 4/9 favourite, won the 2m4f maiden hurdle under Ruby Walsh and the champion jockey was again in the saddle as 1/3 favourite Let’s Dance scored a 17length win in the Grade 3 mares’ hurdle. Rookie trainers Joseph O'Brien and Robbie McNamara were also on the scoresheet. JJ Slevin partnered

4/1 shot Exactoris to win the 2m4f handicap hurdle for O’Brien while Finny Maguire did the steering as 9/4 chance Quick Grabim impressed with a five length success in the bumper for Curragh-based McNamara. Villierstown, County Waterford trainer Patrick Duffy and Conor Brassil teamed up to land the opportunity handicap chase with 12/1 shot Courtncatcher.

Return date pencilled in for Don Cossack CHELTENHAM Gold Cup hero Don Cossack continues to make a steady recovery from the leg injury he suffered in April and a return to action in the Grade 2 Red Mills Chase at

Gowran Park in February is on the cards. The ten-year-old's trainer Gordon Elliott said, “Don Cossack has been coming along nicely over the past few months.

In addition to cantering away, he swims twice a day and it's so far so good with him. It's still a case of taking one day at a time, but if things continue to go well the plan will be to

give him one run before the Gold Cup and it's quite possible he could start back in the Red Mills Chase at Gowran Park on Saturday, February 18th.”