Dungarvan observer 8 4 2016 edition by Dungarvan Observer

DUNGARVAN

OBSERVER

Waterford Se n i o r L a d i es ove r c o m e D ow n

Vol. 104

Friday, 8th April, 2016

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Government services needed to support rural post offices O’Ryan seeks support for motion calling on government to stop the decline of local post offices fare claimants to claim their benefits package applicants away from the and mailing centres in local post By Paul Mooney through their banks, rather than the local post office. A large number of offices are going to Clonmel and 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 wel-

local post offices - something which Cllr. Michael J. O’Ryan said he was made aware of recently. At the March 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

post offices, mainly rural based, closed over the past eight years due to the financial crisis, and in more recent times, An Post has moved the sorting of mail away from local post offices to more central locations. “We all know rural Ireland is hanging by a thread,” said Cllr. O’Ryan. “Schools are losing teachers, Garda barracks are closing,

Fermoy. “We’ve had robberies in the area, including my own school, and Ballinameela National School was also targeted, as was our own farm in regards to oil being taken,” said Cllr. O’Ryan. “These are all things coming together to impinge upon rural Ireland.” Continued on page 3

Glowing report for fully compliant Dunabbey House AN unannounced visit by HIQA (Health Information and Quality Authority) to local nursing home, Dunabbey House, gave a glowing report, when it was found that the facility is fully compliant with Health Care regulations. The HIQA Inspector said the overall inspection findings of Dunabbey House “were satisfactory and where there were actions from the previous inspection, they had been addressed”. See full story on page 2

S i x-yea r - o l d l o ca l g i r l re q u i res l i v e r a n d k i d n ey t ra n s p l a n t

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A SIX-year old County Waterford girl is hoping to receive the gift of life this year in the form of a combined liver and kidney transplant. Lexi Murphy from Dunhill, County Waterford, was first diagnosed with her life-threatening condition when she was three weeks old, and it has developed rapidly in the past two years. Lexi has been on the transplant waiting list since last December, but has been suspended from it six times, when she became very ill and was hospitalised. Her mother, Kim, explained in the past two

years Lexi’s hospital stays have been more frequent. “We are entirely reliant on the hope that a deceased organ donor will come along, because a living kidney donation is not an option for a combined liver and kidney transplant,” said Kim. People are reminded about the importance of carrying an organ donor card. Organ Donor Awareness Week 2016 is from 2nd to 9th April. For more information on organ donation: Irish Kidney Association LoCall 1890543639 or Freetext the word DONOR to 50050. Visit website www.ika.ie.

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

BSERVERes Friday, 8th April,

Vol. 104

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Wa te r fo rd Se n i o r L a d i es ove r c o m e D ow n

visit by AN unannounced Information HIQA (Health to and Quality Authority) home, nursing local gave a Dunabbey House, it was when glowing report, is of local post offices that the facility in local post found Health to stop the decline and mailing centres Clonmel and fully compliant with on government away from the going to Care regulations. for motion callingtheir benefits package applicants of offices are Inspector A large number claim The HIQA Fermoy. local post office. fare claimants to in the area, rural based, rather than the “We’ve had robberiesschool, and said the overall inspection post offices, mainly due through their banks, Dunabbey own - something which closed over the past eight years including my was findings of satisfactory local post offices he was crisis, and in more Ballinameela National School “were J. O’Ryan said to the financial our own farm Housewhere there were area Councillor Cllr. Michael recently. moved the targeted, as was of times, An Post has and A COMERAGH local post also Council to back made aware March meeting of recent being taken,” said actions from the previous of mail away from in regards to oil is asking Waterford the At the are all things Cllr. sorting had been locations. they “These demanding Council, central District motion Cllr. O’Ryan. a upon inspection, offices to more rural Ireland is coming together to impinge Social Protection Comeragh addressed”. expressed his “disappoint“We all know Department of on page 2 offices through O’Ryan when he heard the thread,” said Cllr. rural Ireland.” See full story hanging by a support rural post to ment” losing on page 3 social welfare Social Protection O’Ryan. “Schools are Continued the payment of Department of closing, are welfare encouraging social benefit teachers, Garda barracks recipients. of Social actively household recipients and The Department advised welProtection has recently

O’Ryan seeks support By Paul Mooney

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Printmaster acquired by local businessman page 19

re q u i res d local girl S i x- y e a r - o l d n e y t r a n s p l a n t l i ve r a n d k i stays have years Lexi’s hospital old County more frequent. A SIX-year is hoping to been are entirely reliant on Waterford girl “We of life this deceased receive the gift hope that a form of a the come year in the donor will and kidney organ living kidney combined liver along, because a option for transplant. from donation is not an Murphy and kidney Lexi Waterford, a combined liver Kim. Dunhill, County with her transplant,” said about was first diagnosedcondition People are reminded life-threatening of carrying three weeks the importance Organ when she was developed an organ donor card. 2016 old, and it has two years. Awareness Week rapidly in the past on the Donor 9th April. is from 2nd to Lexi has been on list since For more information transplant waiting has been Irish Kidney but organ donation: last December, it six times, Association LoCall 1890from suspended the word very ill and 543639 or Freetext when she became to 50050. Visit was hospitalised. Kim, DONOR mother, Her website www.ika.ie. the past two in explained

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SECTIONS .........................……………………………………... PAGES News .............................…………..……………………………… 1–27 Classifieds ..........................…..……………………………... 28–31 Minogue Furniture celebrates opening ...………….. 32-33 County News ...........………….…………………………….... 34-47 Scór na bPaistí County Finals.....…..…………………. 48–50 Schools ...............……..……………………..…………………. 51–53 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 WEDNESDAY will be a cold, windy and showery day. There will be bright or short sunny spells at times but some of the showers will be heavy or of hail and with a risk of isolated thunderstorms and some may be wintry on high ground. Afternoon highs of just 7 to 9 degrees Celsius and feeling cold in the strong and blustery westerly wind. And now, here's the National outlook for the following few days: Headline: Rather cold and unsettled weather for the rest of the week and next weekend. Wednesday Night: Cold on Wednesday night with further showers mainly in western and northern counties with some more prolonged rain for a time in the north. Showers should become well isolated in parts of the south and southeast. Overnight lows of 1 to 4 degrees Celsius with some frost in places in spite of the blustery west to northwest wind. Thursday will be cold, and bright with sunny spells and occasional rain or hail showers. Blustery northwest winds in the morning will ease off later in the day and afternoon temperatures will be around 10 or 11 degrees Celsius. Cold overnight and apart from the exposed north and west coasts most places will become dry (as showers die away). Cold with some frost developing as temperatures fall to between 0 and 3 degrees Celsius. Friday: After a dry start in midland and eastern areas rain will spread eastwards during Friday with some heavy falls expected in places but clearing to clearer weather with scattered showers in southwestern and western areas on Friday night but further rain in northern and eastern areas with some falls of sleet in places also. Weekend: Cold and unsettled over the weekend with further rain or showers at times, some wintry falls possibly on high ground.There will be drier brighter periods also but rather chilly and some ground frost at night.

WED 9º

THUR 11º

FRI 11º

Glowing report for Dunabbey House as HIQA finds nursing home fully compliant

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Dunabbey House Nursing Home, Dungarvan. AN unannounced visit by HIQA (Health Information and Quality Authority) to local nursing home, Dunabbey House, gave a glowing report, when it was found that the facility is fully compliant with Health Care regulations. The report, published by HIQA on 23rd March last, followed an unannounced inspection of Dunabbey House on 18th February, 2016. HIQA Inspector, Ide Cronin, who inspected Dunabbey Nursing Home said residents “were complimentary about their day-to-day life experiences and described being able to go out with family, go to the town and to local events as positive aspects of life”. “They also confirmed that they felt safe and attributed this to the availability of staff, their positive professional manner and having access to a call bell,” the Inspector reported. “There was a safe secure outdoor garden space for residents to use. Systems were in place to ensure the environment was safe for residents, staff and visitors. There were policies, procedures, systems and practices in place to assess, monitor and analyse potential risks and control measures were in place to ensure risk was minimised. The centre was clean and well organised,” the Inspector reported. “The fire safety arrangements were satisfactory and staff were familiar with the fire safety routines, the location of fire fighting equipment and the actions they were required to take should the fire alarm be activated.” Ms. Cronin said the overall inspection findings of Dunabbey House “were satisfactory and where there were actions from the previous inspection, they had been addressed”. This was the seventh inspection of the nursing home by HIQA to monitor ongoing compliance with the regulations. FINDINGS In relation to governance and management; suitable person in charge; safeguarding and safety; health and safety and risk management; health and social care needs; residents’ rights, dignity and consultation; and suitable staffing, the Inspector found them to be all ‘compliant’. In relation to medication management at Dunabbey

House, the Inspector found it to be ‘substantially compliant’. MEDICATION MANAGEMENT Under ‘medication management’, the HIQA Inspector found staff were knowledgeable about medication management and administered medications safely. Staff were appropriately trained in medication management and on-going informal education sessions provided by the pharmacist. The inspector read a sample of completed prescription and administration records and saw that for the most part they were in line with best practice guidelines. However, the Inspector observed that some medications were not individually prescribed by the prescriber which is not in line with best practice in medication management - a mandatory improvement that must be made to meet the requirements of the Health Act 2007 (Care and Welfare of Residents in Designated Centres for Older People) Regulations 2013 and the National Quality Standards for Residential Care Settings for Older People in Ireland. Under Regulation 29(5) the nursing home is required to ensure that all medicinal products are administered in accordance with the directions of the prescriber of the resident concerned and in accordance with any advice provided by that resident’s pharmacist regarding the appropriate use of the product. Responding, management, in addressing the issue, said a meeting was held on 23rd February last, with a General Practitioner to inform the doctor of the inspection findings and to discuss the correct procedure in prescribing medication. There was an agreement with the GP to immediately re-write prescriptions. Management said staff have again been made aware of medication management policy, and all staff area to complete HSE ‘LAND’ medication management programme. GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT Under ‘governance and management’, the inspection found that there is “a clearly defined management structure that identifies the lines of authority and accountability”. The inspection found that “the

person in charge is supported by two assistant directors of nursing and a clinical nurse manager”. “The person in charge reports to the service manager for older people in the area, who in turn is accountable to the provider.” SAFEGUARDING AND SAFETY Under ‘safeguarding and safety’ the inspection found that “measures were in place to protect residents from being harmed or abused”. “All staff had received training on identifying and responding to allegations of elder abuse. A centre-specific policy was available which gave guidance to staff on the assessment, reporting and investigation of any allegation of abuse.The clinical nurse manager and staff spoken to displayed sufficient knowledge of the different forms of elder abuse and all were clear on reporting procedures. A review of incidents since the previous inspection showed that there were no allegations of abuse in the centre.” HEALTH AND SAFETY AND RISK MANAGEMENT Under ‘health and safety and risk management’, the inspection found that the provider had put systems in place to promote and protect the safety of residents, staff and visitors to the centre, while there was an up-to-date health and safety statement which was due for revision in October 2016. In relation to effective care and support, the Inspector reviewed a selection of care plans and saw evidence of a pre-admission assessment undertaken for all residents. “On admission activities of daily living such as mobility, cognition, nutrition and communication were assessed. There was evidence that care plans were reviewed on a quarterly basis or as assessed needs required.” HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE NEEDS Under ‘health and social care needs’, the inspection found that policies and procedures are in place in relation to the care and welfare of residents. There was evidence that care plans were reviewed on a quarterly basis or as assessed needs required. Residents spoken with indicated that they were consulted with, and participated in, communication and decisions around healthy living choices

including care plans, daily activities and personal preferences such as food and when or where they took their meals. RESIDENTS’ RIGHTS, DIGNITY AND CONSULTATION Under ‘residents’ rights, dignity and consultation’, the inspection found “that residents were able to contribute to the operation of the centre and that they were able to make meaningful choices that contributed to their quality of life. The inspectors observed that staff engaged positively with residents at all times”. Residents confirmed that they could follow their religious beliefs. Mass was celebrated once a month and it was also transmitted via video link on a daily basis from the community hospital which was across the road. Residents were facilitated to exercise their political rights and could vote in local, European and national elections. Visitors were welcomed throughout the day and there were no restrictions on visits. Residents had access to the television, radio and to daily and local newspapers. Staff said that residents really appreciated hearing local news and they kept them up to date with community events. Community involvement was encouraged and the centre itself also fostered links and were involved in initiatives such as the local men's shed. The centre had recently purchased its own bus. SUITABLE STAFFING Under ‘suitable staffing’, the inspection found that the staff allocation was appropriate to meet the needs of residents. Residents were observed to have good relationships with staff and were comfortable and relaxed when staff approached them. Residents said they valued the way staff remembered their preferences and the ways they liked their daily routines and personal care to be carried out. The inspector spoke with varied staff members and found that they were knowledgeable about residents’ individual needs, fire procedures and the system for reporting suspicions or allegations of abuse. Staff told the inspector that they were well supported and that a good team spirit had been fostered among staff.

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Government services needed to support rural post offices FROM FRONT PAGE Cllr. O’Ryan said social welfare payments moving from the post office to banks will only lead to the further decline of small rural post offices. He said the Department of Social Protection should be supporting small rural post offices with welfare payments. “Welfare payments accounts for up to 30 percent of post office business,” Cllr. O’Ryan pointed out. He drew attention to

the Kerr Report (on the future of post offices) which was published earlier in the year, which contained 23 recommendations for the survival of small post offices, including network renewal, financial services, government services, etc. “There is no point ‘talking the talk’ if they are not prepared to ‘walk the walk’,” said Cllr. O’Ryan, urging that the 23 recommendations in the report be implemented. He noted that one of

the recommendations included the post office accepting payments for motor tax. Cllr. Liam Brazil agreed with Cllr. O’Ryan’s sentiments. “It is always important to support small local businesses. We are losing too many small local rural businesses - we lost the likes of the co-op and the small shop,” said Cllr. Brazil. He suggested that Cllr. O’Ryan bring the motion to the full plenary Council

for support of the whole Council. Director of Services, Fergus Galvin concurred that it might be better coming as a motion from the full Council to the Department of Social Protection. “One motion from the plenary Council might carry more weight,” Mr. Galvin suggested. Cllr. O’Ryan agreed to bring the motion to the April meeting of Waterford City and County Council for support.

Changes to pay and display parking comes into force in Dungarvan By Paul Mooney MOTORISTS are reminded that since last Monday, 4th April, it is now compulsory to display a parking ticket on your vehicle, even during the free half hour. The changes came in to help ‘streamline’ the system and make it more efficient. Any vehicle found without a parking ticket will be issued with a parking fine. Any motorist wishing to park in Dungarvan for less than 30 minutes can simply go to a parking machine located at various points around town and press the green button. A parking ticket will issue without the need for any money. This ticket for the free half hour must be displayed in your vehicle - the bigger portion of the ticket must be displayed on the dashboard, while the smaller stub can be retained by the motorist. For anyone wanting to park longer than 30 minutes, the motorist can pay in increments, starting from 30c for 16 minutes, up to €1.10 for one hour of parking. The free half hour will automatically be added to the time on your ticket. Senior Executive Engineer at Waterford

Council, Niall Kane, said the changes to the parking regulations will make it clearer to motorists and helps end the confusion for both residents and visitors who were paying for parking, but the ticket wasn’t showing the correct time they had left to park. Mr. Kane said the changes also help to prevent unnecessary parking / abuse of parking, particularly during the free half hour. Parking charges are enforced between the hours of 9.00 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. After 4.00 p.m. it is free parking. If a motorist purchases a ticket after 4.00 p.m., they will be credited parking time for the following morning - so if a person is socialising in Dungarvan and choses to park their car in town overnight, they can buy a parking ticket the previous evening and they will be credited with the parking time the following morning, including the free half hour. For example, a €1.10 parking ticket bought after 4.00 p.m. will give the motorist parking until 10.30 a.m. the following morning. SCANLONS YARD While work on Grattan Square is ongoing, motorists can avail of 90 minutes free

Festival of Food Wine Event Indulge in an elegant wine experience – An hour long masterclass overlooking Ardmore Bay followed by dinner and wines in House Restaurant, created by award winning chef Martijn Kajuiter. Thursday, 14th April, at 7.00 p.m. Call 024 87800 or email info@thecliffhousehotel.com www.thecliffhousehotel.com

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Thinking of starting a business but don’t know how to take the next step? Have you started a business but find yourself swimming in paperwork? Pictured top: a parking ticket showing the free half hour. The bigger portion of the ticket is displayed in the vehicle, while the motorist retains the smaller portion of the ticket for reference of the parking time remaining. Bottom picture: the parking ticket machine, which are located at various points around town. parking in Scanlon’s Yard car park. A 24-hour parking ticket for Scanlon’s Yard car park will cost €3.30, while a

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NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Ambulance service strikes in Waterford PARAMEDICS of Waterford City and County’s Ambulance Service began strike action last Tuesday, 5th April, accusing the National Ambulance Service / HSE of failing to address their concerns over health and safety. A spokesperson of the Ambulance staff outlined that the reasoning for this action was due to health and safety and wellbeing of its members and the public who they treat. The strike action comes after the National Ambulance Control Centre was opened in Tallaght, Dublin, last year to deal with all calls to the Ambulance Service. However, since then, ambulance staff said issues have arisen where staff have been instructed to work “over and well beyond their finishing times, go without meal breaks for six to eight hours, emergency crews doing

non-emergency work leaving little or no cover within the city and county environs”. The spokesperson stated that staff within the two ambulance stations (based in Dungarvan and Waterford) are “reaching breaking point” and compared the situation to one which is ongoing in London Ambulance Service, whereby staff there are just ‘burnt out’. “Recently, we had a woman lying on the ground for over an hour – a situation that has never arisen before and a situation that should never happen, yet there was no redress to this incident. This is just one scenario of which there are numerous others,” said the spokesperson, adding that particular details cannot be disclosed due to patient confidentiality. “These incidents are becoming more common place and put

additional stress on staff who are already near breaking point,” the spokesperson said. Last January, Unite Union members of the Ambulance staff wrote to their managers outlining their concerns and suggested a mechanism which could be used to alleviate pressures on staff and the Ambulance Service. “To date, these issues have not been addressed, hence the unfortunate need for staff to take the action balloted for.” The Ambulance staff stressed that the industrial action will not affect patient care and treatment. However, in a warning to the HSE, they said that if meaningful commitments are not given to Ambulance staff, then they may have no option but to withdraw all their services.

Brexit Information Session and how it will affect you with Jim Power Economist DATE: Wednesday, 13th April. Time: 5.30 p.m. – 7.30 p.m. Location: Printmaster, Westgate Business Park, Dungarvan. This briefing will be an informative session intended to brief our Chamber members about the realities we will face for better or worse if

Britain decides to vote against being part of the European Union in June 2016. This could, realistically, have catastrophic effects on Irish businesses and our economy. We are inviting you to join guest speaker Jim Power Economist will explore what the UK quit-

ting the EU would mean to each of us. This event is combined with a Chamber Afterhours at Printmaster, Westgate Business Park, Dungarvan. Places are limited so booking is essential. To book, please contact the Chamber office on 058 45054 or

email info@dungaravnchamber.ie

Redevelopment works on Grattan Square update This photograph shows a waterfall on the side of the N25 just above Ring Cross, last Sunday, 3rd April after a period of rain. It appears the bank is weakening as rocks were being dislodged by the water. It is becoming a regular sight after a shower of rain.

Two day festival begins this weekend in Tramore FAMILIES from all over the country will be in the seaside town of Tramore this coming Sunday, April 10th, for the first Family Fun Afternoon of the year at Tramore Racecourse. The fun on the track for younger racegoers includes free entertainment provided by First Class Castles and Wobbly Circus including Circus Skill Workshop, Donkey Derby, Face Painters and Front Runners Racing Club. The entire family is invited to make a day of it with a great value Sunday Lunch package available at €29.95 per person. This includes race admission, a 3 course lunch and your reserved table in the newlyrefurbished Graun Hill Suite for the afternoon. The first race on Sunday is off at 1.05 p.m. and the feature race is the €30,000 ‘At The Races’ Listed Steeplechase which was

transferred from Jan 1 and is sure to attract a high quality field with previous winners Roi Du Mee and Marito all set to line up for the race. Office groups are being invited along to the evening meeting on Monday, April 11th. The 6 race card is sponsored by Tote Ireland and includes the €10,000 EBF Mares Flat Race. All Tote Account holders will enjoy free admission for the evening. The first race is at 4.35 p.m. and it is hoped that clubs and associations as well as corporate groups from workplaces around the region will come along and enjoy a great evening of quality racing and fun. • Admission on race day is adults €15 / students Over 18 & Seniors €10. Family ticket are available at €25. Further information www.tramore-racecourse.com / T:051 381425.

FOLLOWING an update with the Resident Engineer & Wills Brothers Construction regarding the redevelopment Works on Grattan Square, the Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber can confirm the following: By close of business yesterday Tuesday, 5th April, kerbing and paving is expected to be completed in section 1A, the pedestrian crossing is expected to be open, also that section will be open to cars parking. The footpath in this area will be completed once the road is open. By April 15th the kerbing and paving in Section 1B is expected to be completed. The footpath in this section will be finished off following this. The tarmac between The Allrounder & Meades Café in the paved area will be taken up and the area will be paved and reinstated. Trees will be planted in section 1A & 1B this week. Paving taking place on the footpath of sections 1A & 1B will cause minor disruption accessing entry/

exit, the construction team are working with each business to minimise disruption. Studs will be laid on the paving to indicate official parking spaces, this will happen by 15th April A site Investigation will take place on Main Street next Monday, 11th April from 7.00 p.m. to 1.00 a.m. Minor works on the East side of Grattan Square including work on water connections and removal of trees commenced on Tuesday, 5th April. LONGER TERM PLAN Following the Festival of Food, work will commence outside The Wine Buff and will move down the East Side of Grattan Square. The section outside Wine Buff as far as Bridge Street will take an estimated 3 weeks (start 18th April finish 6th May, 2016). Work on the East Side of Grattan Square Section 3A will commence (as per current schedule) Monday, 25th April, and complete 26th May. Section 4 B will commence 27th May and

continue until 2nd June, 2016. Work on Main Street will commence 7th June, 2016, and is expected to take up to 4 weeks. It is expected a road closure will be in operation for the majority of this time due to the width of the street and the number of services underground on that street. The contractors have agreed to condense the programme as much as

possible, work Saturdays and longer hours, manage two shifts etc. to speed up the works programme. The Chamber is organising a meeting between Contractors, Smarter Travel and Main Street Businesses. **Wills Brothers Construction Business Liaison Person is the Foreman Jim Gilbert who has committed to be in contact with businesses affected regularly.

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Planning home improvements in 2016? WHETHER you are planning to replace your roof, build an extension or change worn-out floors, talk to us at Dungarvan Credit Union today about our Home Improvement Loan. As the economy picks up and consumer spend confidence continues to improve, more of us are considering home improvements this year. The extension of the Government’s Home Renovation Incentive Scheme also provides some welcome tax relief for those planning spending on repair, renovation or improvement works this year. We only propose Home Improvement Loans with realistic terms, which you can pay back in a way that works best for you. We don’t charge administration fees or transaction charges and you can pay back your Home Improvement Loan early without penalty, if that becomes an option. You also have Free Loan

Protection Insurance on your loan (t&c). In Dungarvan Credit Union, you are not a customer, you are a valued Member. No matter what your Home Improvement Loan is for – from a total revamp, to just a little redecorating, Dungarvan Credit Union can help. Call into us today or log onto www.dungarvancu.ie and try our loan calculator for more details. Commenting on the Home Improvement Loan Sean Cleary, Manager, Dungarvan Credit Union said: “The Irish property market is certainly showing signs of recovery and this in turn is giving people confidence to carry out home improvements. We would encourage members contemplating undertaking improvements in their home to contact us about finance.” For more information on The Home Renovation Incentive Scheme go to

www.revenue.ie *COST OF FINANCE For a €5000 Loan over 36 months,Variable Interest rate loan of 8.75%, APR 9.14%, with monthly repayments of €158.50, the total amount payable by the member will be €5,705.31. For a €5000 Loan over 36 months, Covered Loan Interest rate of 6% APR 6.17%, with monthly repayments of €152.11, the total amount payable by the member will be €5,475.74. For further information contact: Dungarvan Credit Union on 058 44088/44094 or email loans@dungarvancu.ie Also check out our Facebook Page and our website www.dungarvancu.ie Dungarvan Credit Union is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Terms and conditions apply.

Blood donor clinic seeking donations in Dungarvan BLOOD donors are being sought in the West Waterford area by the Irish Blood Transfusion Service (IBTS). Currently there are five days supply of blood left for O positive blood types - the most common blood type of the Irish population (47 percent). Each week, around 1,000 people receive blood transfusions, and as blood is in constant demand, the IBTS requires 3,000 donations weekly. Patients throughout the country require blood transfusions, sometimes for routine surgical procedure such as a hip operation; other times it may be for someone recovering from a road traffic collision; major surgery, such as a heart

bypass, or a patient undergoing cancer treatment. Giving blood is about the generosity of the donor helping to save lives. Without the tremendous and continued generosity, the IBTS would not be able to provide the blood and blood products needed in hospitals. The IBTS depends on donors to maintain an adequate and safe blood supply to save and improve lives. The IBTS clinic will be at Lawlor’s Hotel, Dungarvan next week, Monday, 11th April to 14th April inclusive - from 5.00 p.m. to 8.30 p.m. on Monday 11th; from 3.00 p.m. to 5.00 p.m. and 7.00 p.m. to 9.00 p.m. on Tuesday 12th; from 3.00 p.m. to 5.00 p.m. and 7.00

p.m. to 9.00 p.m. on Wednesday, 13th; from 3.00 p.m. to 5.00 p.m. and 7.00 p.m. to 9.00 p.m. on Thursday, 14th April. There are eight blood groups, O positive and negative; A positive and negative; B positive and negative; AB positive and negative, classed in two systems - ABO system and Rhesus system. As of 4th April, 2016, there are around five days blood supply remaining for O positive and negative and A positive. There are six days supply remaining for A negative and B positive; and four days supply remaining for B negative. There are around 12 days supply for AB positive and negative blood groups.

The rarest blood group in Ireland is AB negative (one percent of the population). OTHER LOCATIONS FOR CLINIC The IBTS blood donor clinic will also be at Blackwater Community School, Lismore, on Thursday, 12th May, from 5.00 p.m. to 8.30 p.m. The clinic will be at Clonmel Park Hotel, Clonmel, from 30th May to 2nd June, 2016. For more information on blood donations and to see if you are eligible to give blood, visit www.giveblood.ie or Lo-call 1850731-137. There is also a ‘giveblood.ie’ app which can be downloaded for free for your smartphone.

Terms and conditions apply. Dungarvan Credit Union is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Attending the After Hours Event at TQS AT & IT Integration, Lismore, in conjunction with Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber [Sean Byrne//Deise Media] were Les Ford and Kolette Enright, Eyes on the Road, with Eileen Walsh and Ann Cotter, Bank of Ireland.

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Programme details for Celtic Media Festival THE Celtic Media Festival today revealed the details of this year’s festival programme, due to take place in Dungarvan, Co. Waterford over 20th - 22nd April. The programme celebrates the influential media industry of the Celtic nations and regions and features key figures from the media and broadcast world. Celtic Media Festival 2016 programme highlights will include: Recent years have seen the Celtic nations lead the way in attracting big budget, scripted film and TV productions to their shores, resulting in stunning Celtic landscapes being showcased on a global stage. Ireland, as well as being the location for Vikings and Penny Dreadful, saw 2015’s Star Wars: The Force Awakens shoot on Skellig Michael in County Kerry, whilst Northern Ireland is home to the Seven Kingdoms of Game of Thrones. Scotland’s Outlander, Cornwall’s Poldark and Wales’ Da Vinci’s Demons and Dr Who are just some of the other major productions within the Celtic nations. Small Nations – Big Drama will discuss the benefits to small nations in attracting major film and TV projects; however, does this come at a cost to indigenous forms of production? Mike Ellen, former BBC Scotland drama producer and current Head of Development at On The Corner – the independent production company co-founded by The Walking Dead star David Morrissey which has produced some of the most critically wellreceived and commercially successful feature documentaries

of the last 5 years, including Senna and Amy – will chair the session also featuring James Flynn of Octagon Films, an Oscar-nominated producer whose work includes Penny Dreadful, Love/Hate, The Tudors, P.S. I Love You and many more; Matt Bouch, whose production credits range from Da Vinci’s Demons and My Mad Fat Diary to Being Human and The Sarah Jane Adventures; and Mark Byrne, Head of Business Affairs at Element Pictures, the production company behind 2015’s critically-acclaimed Room, starring Oscar-winning actress Brie Larson. In Drama vs Comedy: Crossing the Line Still Game director Michael Hines will interview acclaimed Danish director and screenwriter, Birger Larsen, on his substantial directing career and his experience directing vastly different genres in vastly different languages. Larsen’s credits include Dance of the Polar Bears, the Oscar-nominated Live Action Short Sweethearts, The Killing and BBC drama Murder. Online is the new Broadcast will see panellists including production company Nemeton’s CEO Irial Mac Murchú, Garret Keogh, a leading industry figure with a track record of delivering major digital projects for brands and broadcasters at modern creative agency Telegraph Hill, Rocket Entertainment’s Louise Brown who, as Digital Content Director, works on new business, content ideas for music fans and family audiences and as a digital content consultant, and Comedy Unit’s Rab Christie whose work includes

Rab C. Nesbitt, Chewin’ the Fat, Scot Squad, Burnistoun and Gary Tank Commander, discuss how traditional and digital content and platforms now share the same stage in the media industry. Looking at the opportunities within the industry they’ll explore what content makers can do to remain relevant and profitable in the changing world of broadcast. Actors, producers, stand-ups and all-round funny guys Gordon Kennedy and Bennett Arron discuss their radio comedy success with Stellify Media MD Kieran Doherty, who began his own career writing sketch comedy for radio and whose work includes CBBC’s The Sparticle Mystery, the IFTA award winning Big City Park and more. Gordon’s acting, producing and writing career spans 30 years and includes award-winning theatre work, television appearances – including roles on Sherlock, Skins and Being Human - and producing stints across radio and television. Award-winning writer and stand-up comedian Bennett Arron has performed across the world and his television and radio credits include panel game shows for BBC Radio 2 and BBC Radio Wales, BAFTA short-listed How to Steal an Identity and BBC documentary The Kosher Comedian. Festival Director Catriona Logan said: “We’re extremely proud to be able to bring some of the leading names in the media and broadcast industry to Dungarvan this April, and to offer a genre and platformspanning programme to our Festival delegates. From sessions focusing on the changing

nature of the wider broadcasting industry, the benefits of some of the world’s biggest films and TV shows filming in Celtic nations or a conversation between 2 highly acclaimed directors, to name a few, we’re sure it will be a great few days for delegates and the wider Dungarvan community alike.” Festival organisers also revealed details of the wider Celtic Media Festival programme open to delegates at the Festival last week, with the deadline for registering as a delegate closing on Friday 15th April. Delegates are able to access to the full daytime programme of events, as well as the Torc Awards for Excellence, which celebrate the very best of film, television, radio and interactive media to emerge from the Celtic nations. For more information on registering as a delegate and the wider Festival programme visit www.celticmediafestival.co.uk. The 37th Celtic Media Festival takes place over 20th 22nd April 2016 and will see hundreds of delegates enjoy a packed festival programme in Dungarvan, Co. Waterford. Supported by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland,Waterford City and County Council, TG4, BBC Scotland, RTÉ, MG ALBA, S4C, Northern Ireland Screen, BBC Northern Ireland and BBC Cymru Wales, the festival consistently attracts international delegates wherever it is held and offers a programme that celebrates the influential media industry of the Celtic nations and regions, as well as providing networking opportunities for delegates and speakers alike.

Men, it’s time to get a little hands-on and ‘know thy nuts’ THE MOVEMBER FOUNDATION IS LETTING IT ALL HANG OUT FOR TESTICULAR CANCER AWARENESS MONTH THIS April, the Movember Foundation is encouraging guys and their partners to get to ‘Know thy Nuts.’The mission of Testicular Cancer Awareness Month is to educate the country about what’s normal and most importantly, what’s not. Though not always seen as such, testicular cancer is very much a young man’s disease and is most common in men aged 15-34. Many men either never check their testicles, or don’t know how to perform a self-examination, making it all the more critical that awareness around the issue is improved. In a ballsy move, the Movember Foundation has created a limited edition ‘Know Thy Nuts’ soap-on-arope! It’s the perfect shower partner for any man, to help spread awareness while raising vital funds for men’s

health. Neil Rooney, Movember Country Manager says: “While testicular cancer is the most common cancer in young men, it’s largely overlooked and many men simply aren’t aware of the signs they need to look out for. As the leading foundation for men’s health in Ireland, Movember is going balls-out for Testicular Cancer Awareness Month and asking guys and their partners to #KnowThyNuts” Movember is letting it all hang out and encouraging guys to get to know their nuts a little better and if they notice any lumps, pain or swelling, to see a doctor. This April, get a little hands-on. Get to ‘Know thy Nuts’: Find somewhere comfortable; a warm environment is best, so hop in

the shower, soap up and cop a feel Roll one nut between the thumb and fingers, checking for lumps, swelling or anything that doesn’t feel quite right (Lather, rinse) repeat with the other nut If something feels unusual or hurts, seek advice from a doctor Head to Movember.com to purchase limited Testicular Cancer Awareness Month products and find out more information. Check out @MovemberIreland and #KnowThyNuts on Twitter and Facebook to follow the conversation. Soap - €11.45; Pin badge - €6.37; Socks + boxers set - €31.84. Products are available on Movember.com and all proceeds go to the Movember Foundation.

Damien Dillon, Treasurer St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee, presenting prize to Martin Coffey, Cumann Staire and Oidhreachta Gaellacht na nDeise. [Pat Crowley]

Jim Veale, Chairman St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee, presenting prize to Therese White, Finisk River Riders Special Olympic Club. Also included is Damien Dillon, Treasurer. [Pat Crowley]

Youghal St. Patrick’s Day 2016 – What a green day! WHAT a day! This is the fourth year Youghal 4 All have organised the annual St. Patrick’s Day and it is always an honour to do so.This year, particularly so, given the celebrations surrounding 1916. It was a first for the town that we lit the Clock Gate up green. It looked great and we are already planning even better for next year. Hopefully, changing the colours on the Clock Gate to match festivals, significant days, etc., will become a regular feature. Our thanks to Michael McCarthy, Electrician, for all his help with this. After some concern about road works and the parade route along Catherine Street, the road works, like the bad weather, disappeared to leave a clear route for the day. Kicking off the parade there was a sense that this parade was bigger than ever and the crowds thronging the streets brought that home. Last year, the theme of the parade was '#LoveYoughal' and this year, the theme was '1916'. We were delighted to see so

many groups taking up the theme and our own float was a giant G.P.O. with volunteers in period costume.We handed out free flags on the day and they lent to the atmosphere greatly, though given the crowds were probably a drop in the ocean! Having spent the day before lugging around stages and the morning of St. Patrick's Day setting them up, it was super to see the effect the viewing stage at the Post Office had. Our judge on the day, Tommy Collins, made a superb running commentary on the parade and to see the crowds three and four deep watching on made all the stage work worthwhile! While passing this point, one could see the parade was still passing on Catherine Street which is always a rough rule of thumb to judge the size of the parade! Arriving back in Dolphin Square, the cordoned off area worked great allowing groups and children gather safely for the awards. But first, the Proclamation of the Irish

Republic was read aloud by Finbarr Hannon followed by the National Anthem by the Youghal Pipe Band and a minutes silence for all those who died during that fateful week in 1916. It was a touching moment, that way down south here in Youghal that we remember the sacrifice made in our name by those who volunteered so much more. Wandering around town afterwards, one couldn't help but notice how busy the town was. Pubs, restaurants and takeaways were all packed. Lots of families around just soaking up the atmosphere. And once again, we are reminded that all the effort is worthwhile – that this is what Youghal should be like. Our thanks to all those who helped with the set-up, stewarding and clean up of the parade, who gave us the stages and bollards, who helped with traffic management and organisation on the day. It was a huge effort but one that was most definitely worth it.

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Concerns raised about threatening letters from Council over unpaid development charges By Paul Mooney COUNCILLORS in the Comeragh District area have asked that the Director of Services for Planning be contacted as a matter of urgency in relation to ‘threatening letters’ issued by the Council over unpaid development charges. Development ‘contributions’ were brought in under Section 48 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as a mechanism where developers and other members of the public seeking to build a home are charged a development contribution which contributes to the cost of providing public infrastructure and facilities to benefit the area. (When the Local Property Tax was introduced in 2014, it was also stated that this charge is for providing similar public infrastructure and facilities). At the March meeting of Comeragh District Council, Cllr. Michael J. O’Ryan said he was contacted by a number of people in relation to outstanding development contributions going back several years. He said that ‘strong letters’ were going out from the Council seeking the payment of the outstanding development contribution charges, otherwise legal action will be taken - something, he said “I believe is a little heavy handed”. “I’m not promoting non-payment, but any plan put forward by the householder should be entertained. Some families are under pressure, and circumstances vary, and people should be given some leeway,” said Cllr. O’Ryan. He said he saw one letter

where the Council was seeking €500 a month. With recent awareness around mental health and suicide, Cllr. O’Ryan said he would hate to think that the Council, while collecting outstanding money, “that we pushed even one person ‘over the edge’.” He said the Council need to redraft their letter and any plan being proposed by the householder should be considered. “We should accept whatever they are willing to pay, if it’s within their means to do so,” said Cllr. O’Ryan. Concurring, Cllr. Seanie Power said he also received enquiries from people about development charges. He said current applicants seeking to build are being told they must pay the development charges in a lump sum. “They should be allowed to pay them over a three, four or five year term,” said Cllr. Power. “It would ease the burden on some applicants, like young couples building once-off housing,” he said. Cllr. John O’Leary described development charges as “very unfair and nothing more than a tax”. “In some instances, where houses get planning, they don’t, in fact, get any of the services which are outlined under development charges,” he said. As an example, Cllr. O’Leary said there are housing developments, most notably in rural areas, which don’t get public lighting, parks or footpaths. He said that in many instances, it is an unfair burden on the people and they do not get any return for the money they pay in development charges.

Agreeing, Cllr. Liam Brazil said new charges under the Planning and Development Contribution scheme were agreed by Waterford Council last year, and at that time, he was under the impression that the charges could be paid in instalments, but the vibe back from the people seems to indicate that the Council “wants the money up front” and not in instalments. “I think it is very unfair. There is a lot of once-off housing being sought,” said Cllr. Brazil. He said if a family living in rented accommodation paying at least €500 a month in rent are asked to pay €500 in development charges over a three year period “could drive some people over the edge”. He said it was unfair to expect some people to pay €500 in development charges and sought clarification from the Director of Services for Planning as a matter of urgency. Ann Kiely, of the Council’s planning section, said she would bring the matter to the attention of the Director of Services and Senior Planner. Ms. Kiely said she did not want the impression that people were getting letters ‘out of the blue’ threatening legal action about development charges. “That isn’t the case,” she said.“There is a series of letters. I would strongly advise anyone who gets a letter to contact the Council’s planning department straight away and not let it go on and on, as happens with so many other debts people may owe, and not to wait until they get a letter threatening legal action.

“People are welcome to contact the planning department and talk about paying their outstanding development charges over a period of time.” Ms. Kiely said the administration section of the planning department have been asked to take on board the huge amount of development charges which have not been paid. She said unpaid development charges is lost revenue to the Council. “The purpose of the development charges is to pay for essential services.” She agreed that rural once-off housing do not have the same services provided as urban developments. Ms. Kiely said the concerns would be brought to the attention of the Director of Services. Cllr. Brazil said Councillors wanted to know what type of letters are going out to people and the criteria regarding the newer development charges. He sought an answer from the Director of Services before the April meeting of the Plenary Council body. “If this isn’t resolved before then, it will go ‘full blown’ at the Plenary meeting,” Cllr. Brazil warned. Ms. Kiely said she felt that some details are being ‘glossed over’ and said she did not want the idea going out that the Council ‘is driving people over the edge’. “That may be overstating the matter,” said Ms. Kiely. “I will ask the Director of Services to treat this as an urgent matter and ask him to contact you as soon as possible,” she added.

Comeragh District Council extends vote of sympathy on Buncrana Pier tragedy A VOTE of sympathy was extended from the Comeragh District Council to the families of the victims of the drowning tragedy in Buncrana, County Donegal. At the March meeting of the local authority, Cllr. Michael J. O’Ryan

said a vote of sympathy should be extended to the McGrotty / Daniels families and a letter of solidarity should go to the local municipal authority in Donegal as a show of solidarity from the Comeragh District.

Sean McGrotty (49), his two young sons, Mark (12) and Evan (8); Ruth Daniels (59) and her daughter, Jodie-Lee (15) tragically drowned when the vehicle they were in slid into the water at Buncrana Pier, on Sunday evening, 20th March, last.

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NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

P l a c e s f i l l fo r D u n g a r va n S u m m e r C a m p

Children’s performing arts network, Starcamp, reminds parents that plans are advancing for its summer camp which will take place in the Town Hall Theatre, Dungarvan from 8-12th August next. Supported by banana importer Fyffes, the week-long camps for boys and girls aged 4-12 are designed to teach performance and build confidence amongst those taking part through song, dance, drama and games. Headquartered in Carrigaline, Starcamp will visit almost 170 towns across 32 counties this Summer. Bookings received by May 6th will be entered in a draw for a holiday in Portugal. Further information can be found by visiting www.starcamp.ie

RNLI crew John Condon represented the Helvick Lifeboat Station in Easter 1916 Centenary Commemoration FIFTY RNLI volunteers came from twenty-nine lifeboat stations around the Irish coast and inland to parade through Dublin City Centre to mark the centenary of the Easter Rising in 1916. Among them were John

Condon from the Helvick Lifeboat Station and Caoimhín Ó Dalaigh from the Youghal station. The RNLI contingent was accompanied by a new Atlantic 85 lifeboat, which following its debut in the parade, will be transported

RNLI Crew John Condon representing the Helvick Lifeboat Station and Caoimhín Ó Dalaigh from the Youghal station waiting to be bussed to their meeting point for the parade as part of the 1916 Rising Commemorations in Dublin.

to Youghal to go on operational service, and two RNLI land rovers used in the launching of inshore lifeboats. Commenting on the commemoration RNLI Operations Manager Owen Medland said, ‘It is a huge honour for the RNLI to take part in this historic event. It is an acknowledgement of the role our volunteers have played in saving lives at sea and on inland waters in Ireland since the

County Waterford launch of Darkness Into Light 2016

RNLI was established in Ireland in 1826.The lifeboat service has been given without any interruption historically and has always put the needs of those in danger on the water above all. Our volunteers come from all communities and backgrounds and the RNLI is proud of the role Irish volunteers have played in saving countless lives and continue to play today and into the future.’

RNLI parade past the GPO as part of the 1916 Rising Commemorations in Dublin. [Tony Roddam]

JOAN Freeman, Founder of suicide and self-harm crisis centre Pieta House, will launch Darkness Into Light 2016 (DIL 2016) in association with Electric Ireland at The Mayor’s Chambers on Thursday, April 7th at 6pm. The DIL event is taking place on Saturday, 7th May,

and it is a unique, early morning fundraising event which begins in darkness at 4.15 a.m. as thousands of people walk or run a 5km route while dawn is breaking.This year, Darkness Into Light will take place in over 100 locations in Ireland and abroad including the UK, Canada, Australia and New

Zealand. The event will take place this year in Dungarvan and Waterford City. Registration and route information for Darkness Into Light is available now at darknessintolight.ie and all are welcome to attend the launch in Waterford.

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Dungarvan Credit Union supports Waterford Diocesan Pilgrimage

Pictured (l. to r.): Sean Cleary, CEO Dungarvan Credit Union; Kathleen Ahearne, KCK Lourdes Invalid Guild; Ann Crowther, KCK Lourdes Invalid Guild; Ella Whelan, Secretary West Waterford Lourdes Deanery, and Noel Devereux, Co-Ordinator, West Waterford Lourdes Deanery. DUNGARVAN Credit Union are delighted to Sponsor an individual to travel with the KCK Lourdes Invalid Guild on the Waterford Diocesan Pilgrimage to Lourdes from the 6th to the 11th of June. Ann Crowther said “As always it is extremely hard to fundraise enough money to bring as many

people as possible on this trip to Lourdes, so we were delighted when Dungarvan Credit Union said that they would Sponsor someone. This is their first year doing this and we were thrilled that KCK Lourdes Invalid Guild was selected and we’d like to thank them for that.” Dungarvan Credit Union will

sponsor one person yearly from within our common bond to travel to Lourdes on the Waterford Diocesan Pilgrimage. It will be open to all groups and all guilds within our common bond area. Check out our website www.dungarvancu.ie and our Facebook page for more info.

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Council agrees to send Mayor to Boston WATERFORD Council agreed to send the Mayor to Boston later in April to attend a memorial of victims of the Boston Marathon. Meetings Administrator, Eddie Ruane, explained that the invitation was for the Mayor of Waterford City and County to attend a reception in Boston on 18th April, next, honouring the victims of the Boston Marathon tragedy in 2013. He said the Council is finalising an itinerary and are working with businesses in Waterford and the

USA to see what benefits can be brought to Waterford. He said there are a number of businesses in Boston interested and there is an opportunity to engage with WIT. Mr. Ruane said there will be a lot of American coverage which will be of benefit to Waterford. Councillors agreed to send the Mayor, John Cummins, on the proposal of Cllr. Cha O’Neill, seconded by Cllr. Pat Nugent.

Increase in planning applications welcomed PLANNING applications to Waterford Council have increased this year, compared with the same period last year, according to a report to the March meeting of Comeragh District Council. Cllr. Seanie Power welcomed the increasing in planning for Waterford City and County,

which is a 43 percent increase on last year, which he said “can only be good for communities and will reflect down the line for employment and other things, like keeping our schools open and our local football teams going”. In the Comeragh area there was a total of 25 planning appli-

cations in 2016 up to end of February, an increase on the same period last year, when there were 24 planning applications. The report stated the increase in planning applications are “positive indicators of increases in activity on a district and countywide basis”.

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EDITORIAL

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Dungarvan Commemoration AS was reported in our edition of last week, there will after all, be a commemoration of the Easter Rising in Dungarvan as well as in Waterford City. However, outside of describing it as ‘ceremonial in format and attended by members of the defence forces who will raise the Tricolour and read the Proclamation’, there appears to be very little detail about the event yet, including the location. The Dungarvan event will be held at 3.00 p.m. on Sunday, 24th April, the date of the start of the Rising and will include local bands and musical groups. It is hoped that with proper planning and promotion, the public will turn out in the kind of numbers which are attracted to the St. Patrick’s Day festivities, although that is unlikely. The programme of events will continue to the end of the year and will probably continue to be posted monthly in advance so that people can avail of what is on offer. This will include talks, walking tours and a gala concert celebrating the best of Waterford’s traditional music.

Forming a Government AFTER almost six weeks of sterile effort at forming a Government, the various political parties, groups and individuals are coming under increasing pressure to stop posturing and dancing to an unproductive choreography. That is the theme of the message from community, church and some political sources, but it is obvious that the proper administration of the country is in a very poor second place, to jockeying for political power.

Incorp. Munster Industrial Advocate There is no doubt that the destination of the offices of Taoiseach, Tánaiste, Ministerial posts and even the title of Leader of the Opposition, is dictating some of the tactics and positions of the various political groupings, but at this point, the people who are suffering at the hands of the state should be the number one priority. Despite many promises of action, forecasts of improvement and pious platitudes, the numbers of patients on trolleys and the numbers of the homeless who are sleeping rough, or in unsuitable temporary emergency accommodation, continue to grow. The number of evictions and forecast evictions continues to rise without proper, speedy and effective intervention by the government. It would appear that the neglect of any meaningful house-building programme since the declaration of the end of the emergency, is part of a government laissez faire policy and that the private sector are being depended upon to cater for essential social housing. That is not a realistic expectation and will not happen. Had there been a proper realisation of these emergencies two years ago, as we began to emerge from fiscal darkness into light, proper action would be in motion now. The lack of a meaningful programme of house provision is an indictment of any Government claiming to be socially conscious and little strides are being made, or effort invested, in finding solutions to the sufferings of the public. The head of the Capuchin Order, a community who are at the heart of poverty alleviation in Dublin, has criticised Government inaction and has expressed exasperation at the political vacuum which is being allowed to continue.

Those who have the power to assist in forming a Government know full well that a formula will have to be found sooner rather than later, or face the electorate once more. On this occasion, the voters may be even more angry and more likely to look for blood, than they were at the recent general election. Dally at your peril is the message, but political lessons are learned slowly and sometimes too late.

Public pay issues on horizon WITH a reported ‘mass exodus’ from the ranks of the Gardaí predicted for this summer, and grave discontent among teachers about contracts, hours of employment and disparity between rates of pay for their members doing the same work, the possibility of the Haddington Road Agreement remaining intact until its expiry date in 2018 is slim indeed. The last thing this country needs is a stampede towards pay rises and the possibility of industrial action in support of that aim and the incoming government must act swiftly and decisively to deal realistically with the problem against a background of our emergence from the crisis years. This week, it is reported that the positive climate and anticipated wealth might be a little ambitious when considered against a deteriorating economic climate in some of our key trading countries and the possibility of Britain leaving the EU. Not all of these factors may come to pass, but planning and structuring of our finances, together with the question of pay in the public service must be tackled ina realistic manner and soon. Which is another reason why the Government and other elected TDs must act responsibly and establish a Government which will administer our state decisively.

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

Waterford Greenway Public Information Meetings WATERFORD City and County Council is currently developing the Waterford Greenway along a 45km section of the old disused railway line from Dungarvan to Waterford. It is anticipated that this amenity will officially open to the public in the second half of 2016. It is envisaged that the development and completion of the Greenway will have a hugely significant cultural, social and economic impact on the people of Waterford in the years to come. Back in April 2014 the then Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport with special responsibility for Public and Commuter Transport, Alan Kelly TD, announced funding of €900,000.00 for the development of a Greenway for walking and cycling on a 7.2 km section of the disused railway line from Clonea to Durrow, following an application for funding made by the Council under the National Cycle Network funding scheme in November 2013. In May

of that same year, a further €1.1m was allocated for a 9.6km section of the Waterford Greenway from Kilmeaden to Bilberry. Recognising the importance of the project, Waterford City and County Council has also invested significant resources into the remaining ‘mid section’ of the Greenway from Durrow to Kilmeaden to ensure that this high quality amenity can open in its entirety later this year. The key drivers that promote the development of the greenways include increased local investment, improvements in tourism development, mobility and access and health and recreation.The benefits under these headings can clearly be seen from other examples of greenway development in an Irish context, such as the Great Western Greenway, Co. Mayo. The benefits of such a development cannot simply be judged in economic terms alone as it will also serve to transform the recreational, social and cultural landscape of Waterford. The opening

up of this old rail corridor will also serve to highlight the county's wonderful railway heritage to an entire generation who may never have experienced it before. In order to ensure that the community, stakeholders and the general public are fully informed and consulted with in this regard, Waterford City and County Council is organising a series of Public Information Meetings during April which members of the public are invited to attend. These public information meetings will take place as follows:Wednesday, 13th April, 2016, The Ballroom, Park Hotel, Dungarvan, 7:30 p.m. Monday, 18th April, 2016, Rainbow Hall, Kilmacthomas, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, 21st April, 2016, Barrow Room, The Viking Hotel, Cork Road, Waterford, 7:30 p.m. All are welcome to attend. For further information E-mail: jbrunnock@waterfordcouncil.ie or call: 0761 10 2496.

GSK grants wishes! GSK TEAMS UP WITH MAKE-A-WISH FOUNDATION AS ITS CHARITY OF CHOICE FOR 2016/2017 1,800 GSK employees aim to help ensure up to 20 wishes come true for wish children

Aidan Lynch (Vice President and General Manager of GSK Pharmaceuticals) and Susan O'Dwyer (Make-A-Wish Ireland CEO) are pictured with Kayla Davis a recent 'Wish' recipient from Make-A-Wish Ireland at the launch of GSK's charity partnership announcement. OVER 1,800 GSK employees in Ireland have selected Make-A-Wish Ireland as the GSK Charity of the Year for 2016 and 2017. €50,000 will be donated by GSK over the next two years while employees across its four sites - Dublin, Waterford, Sligo and Cork - will also organise, fundraise, and participate in a number of events to raise additional funds. GSK is aiming to support the granting of up to 20 wishes over the next two years for Make-AWish Ireland, as well as getting their employees involved in volunteering. Every two years, GSK’s innovative Charity

Partnership programme allows employees to nominate and vote for charities closest to their heart. In addition to the financial donations, GSK employees will also share their time and expertise with MakeA-Wish Ireland through the GSK volunteer programme and the companies main fundraising event the ‘GSK Wheelie Good Cause’. Open to all employees across the four GSK locations in Dungarvan, Cork, Dublin and Sligo, participants can choose to cycle either 50km or 100km with all fundraising monies going to grant more wishes for sick children across the country and GSK’s local

communities. Commenting on the partnership, Make-A-Wish CEO, Susan O’ Dwyer, said: “Our new and exciting partnership with GSK will make a real difference to our work across 2016 and 2017. Monies raised will help us in our mission to grant more magical wishes to children in Ireland and will make a lasting difference to entire families of wish-children in bringing some joy and relief in spite of the enormous challenges they face. We look forward to working with GSK and their employees over the years ahead.” Claire Taaffe, Communications Director for GSK in Ireland, said: “Our ‘charity of the year’ initiative is just one way we focus on putting patients first, supporting a healthy Ireland and making a difference to the communities we work in. This year, over 85% of

our employees chose MakeA-Wish as our charity partner of the year, a landslide vote which showcases how inspired our team is by the work that The Make-AWish Foundation undertakes.This year our aim is to raise enough monies across each site in order to grant as many as 20 magical wishes and fun memories for Irish children to last them a lifetime!” Since 1992, Make-AWish Ireland has granted over 1,800 wishes in Ireland, providing lasting memories for sick children and their families. MakeA-Wish Ireland’s primary objective is to grant the wishes of children aged between 3 and 17 years living with life threatening medical conditions. A wish granted is true magic for the child, providing respite from what for them is often their routine of medical tests and results, visits to the doctor and hospital.

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Councillor expresses annoyance at perceived ‘snub’ from Portlaw parade organisers By Paul Mooney THE Portlaw St. Patrick’s Day Parade was praised by Cathaoirleach of Comeragh District Council, Cllr. Liam Brazil as a “lovely family day” and “very well organised”. However, one Councillor has asked the Council executive to write to the parade organisers over a perceived ‘snub’. Cllr. John O’Leary said all Comeragh area Councillors were invited to the inaugural St. Patrick’s Day Parade in Portlaw last year. “But to my knowledge neither I nor my colleagues received any invitation to this year’s parade,” said Cllr.

O’Leary. “What is the protocol around this, because we were certainly invited last year and I’d hate to think the parades are being used for anything other than celebrating our national day - and not being used for a political reason in relation to the organisation of it!” Cllr. O’Leary said his reason for raising the issue was due to the organisers of the parade receiving funding from the Council’s festivals fund, and he felt that Councillors should be invited to it. Cllr. Brazil said he was invitation to the Portlaw St. Patrick’s Day Parade as Cathaoirleach of the Comeragh area, and pointed out that he never received an invite as a Councillor to the parade in 2015.

He said this was the second year of the parade in Portlaw following a 30 year gap and said it was great to see the parade. “I really enjoyed the day in Portlaw on 17th March, last,” said Cllr. Brazil. He said parades in small towns like Portlaw are “very worthwhile” and are a “lovely family day”. Director of Services, Fergus Galvin, said even though the parade receives funding from the Council, the Council does not have direct involvement in the organising of it. “It is different from the parade in Waterford City, which is the main parade for Waterford where the Council is directly involved in the organising committee and the Council takes precedence in relation to the attendance of the

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Cllr. John O’Leary. Mayor and Councillors,” Mr. Galvin explained. He said it is something the Council can discuss with the organisers of the Portlaw parade. “The Portlaw parade is a separate voluntary organisation and we have very little input or involvement,” Mr. Galvin added.

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NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Lost railway and Youghal M a ra t h o n d a y roundabout may be key to o n Wa te r fo rd Blackwater River nickname? G a rd e n Tra i l

PLANNING a Saturday afternoon talks about Blackwater River landscapes, Barbara Grubb of Dromana House has been looking into the history of the river’s tourist nickname. “Guidebooks used to call the Blackwater ‘the Irish Rhine’,” she says. Her family’s Cappoquinarea mansion stands on a dramatic cliff overlooking the Blackwater. “Somebody was reminded of romantic castles along Germany’s great river Rhine. But who? And why did the nickname catch on?” As Barbara Grubb points out, nobody ever called the Shannon the Irish Danube. “And it would be a deadly insult to call the Liffey the Irish Thames,” she jokes. The comparison between the two rivers began with the famous English novelist, W.M. Thackeray. In 1842, he called the Blackwater scenery near Lismore “as fine as the Rhine”.

But, stresses Barbara Grubb, that’s not the same as saying that the Blackwater was Ireland’s Rhine. “In 1878, a new railway opened across Waterford,” she explains. It was a narrow-gauge line, taking a slow, winding route across the county through Dungarvan, Cappoquin, Lismore and on to Mallow. “Most of it closed in 1967,” Barbara Grubb remembers. “There’s still a railway bridge at Cappoquin, and the track forms a walkway through Abbeyside in Dungarvan. Nearer the city, one section survives as the Suir Valley heritage line.” Running through beautiful countryside, the railway’s best hope for business was from tourists. “It opened at an unlucky moment in Ireland’s history 1879 was the beginning of the Land War. Holiday-makers were put off coming to Ireland in Land League times. It wasn’t

until the late 1880s that attempts to promote tourism really took off.” The “Irish Rhine” was invented then as a marketing slogan. Barbara Grubb was amused to find that not everybody took it seriously. “An 1888 guidebook gave a mocking, Dublin view of the nickname. The Blackwater and the Rhine, it said, were both rivers, both had riverbanks and both had castles. But that was about all. The Rhine was far larger – and it was also the centre of German industry.” But by 1896, the “Irish Rhine” had become the Blackwater’s tourism nickname. So where does the Youghal roundabout fit in? “It’s a long shot,” jokes Barbara Grubb. The first major landmark for visitors sailing up the Blackwater was Rhincrew. “It’s the headland overlooking Youghal bridge,” she explains. Nowadays it’s the name

for the roundabout at the end of the Youghal bypass. “It’s now spelt Rincrew and most people make the first syllable rhyme with ‘bin’,” she adds. “But some people still use the Waterford pronunciation, which rhymes the first syllable with ‘fine’.” Barbara Grubb wonders whether the landmark, Rhine-crew, planted the idea of calling the Blackwater the “Irish Rhine”. “I’m hoping to learn more at our event on Saturday 30th April,” she says. “It’s called ‘Grand Designs – Houses, Gardens and Landscapes of the Blackwater Valley’. We have a double-header of talks. Dr. David Edwards of UCC will discuss how Richard Boyle, the landgrabbing first Earl of Cork, shaped the valley’s 17thcentury landscape. Dr. Finola O’Kane Crimmins of UCD will talk about landscape painting, architecture and tourism along the Blackwater.” Afternoon tea and a tour of the Dromana gardens – famous for their spring flowers – complete the programme. “We have wonderful river views,” boasts Barbara Grubb. “I wouldn’t swap County Waterford’s Blackwater for Germany’s Rhine!” Details on the programme of events for April 30th at Dromana can be found on www.dromanahouse.com

€1,108 raised for Ballybeg Brick by Brick Appeal – The Waterford annual Community & Voluntary Awards night in November raised €1,108 for the Ballybeg Brick by Brick Appeal. “Communities supporting Communities”. Pictured: John Hawkes, Programme’s Co-ordinator, Waterford PPN; Paul Simpson, Saviours Crystal BC; Lil Quinn, Ballybeg Youth Group; Bobby Kennedy, St. Saviours FC; Michael J. Walsh; Kate Moloney and Nathaniel Ademoye, Secretariat, Waterford PPN.

At the launch of Waterford Garden Trail's extended programme of events for 2016 in Lismore Castle Gardens were – Back row (l. to r.): Peter Raven, Ballyin; Roy Sinnott and Anthony Power from Mount Congreve; Alan Walsh, Curraghmore House & Gardens; Sir Charles Keane, Cappoquin House & Gardens. Front row (l. to r.): Barbara Grubb, Dromana House & Gardens; Lord William Burlington, Lismore Castle & Gardens; Sarah Raven, Ballyin, and Kristin Jameson, Tourin House & Gardens. [Mary Browne] INTERNATIONALLYrenowned experts in photography, history, architecture and garden design will all be in Waterford at the end of this month for what promises to be an unmissable day of activity on the Waterford Garden Trail. Three gems on the popular Trail will be pooling their efforts on Saturday, April 30th, for a marathon day of photography in the great outdoors, history, heritage and lost more. Saturday, April 30th, is a key day on this year’s extended programme with events running at Tourin, Dromana and Lismore. The day opens with a photographic competition and amateur photographer’s workshop at Tourin, the ancestral home of the Jameson whiskey family, with professional garden photographer, Bernard Van Geissen. Pre-booking is essential. The workshop starts with welcome coffee from 9.30 a.m. and further details are available by calling Tourin on (058) 54405. The same afternoon, Dromana hosts ‘Grand Designs – Houses, Gardens and Landscapes of the Blackwater Valley’. It will be addressed by Dr. David Edwards, Senior Lecturer, School of History, University College Cork

as well as Dr. Finola O'Kane Crimmins, Senior Lecturer, School of Architecture, University College Dublin. Proceedings get underway in Dromana at 2.30 p.m. and again, pre-booking is essential on 024 96144/ 086 818 6305. The same evening, Lismore Castle hosts a talk with award-winning garden designer, landscape designer, journalist and TV presenter, Dan Pearson. Further details and bookings through Lismore Castle. The marathon day has been organised to allow enthusiasts easily move from one venue to the other for what promises to be an amazing experience. Waterford Garden Trail spokesperson, Barbara Grubb, said it all promises to be a fantastic day for those with an interest in gardening, history, photography, architecture and more. “This day affords everyone with an ideal opportunity to meet with and chat to an internationallyrenowned panel of experts in a host of different fields. We are honoured and privileged to host these three great events and encourage the public to book now as places will be limited and will be filled on a first come, first served basis. “It promises to be a

bumper year for the Waterford Garden Trail and we would be particularly happy to accommodate clubs, societies or gardening groups for what really promises to be a fantastic day for the Trail,” Ms. Grubb added. Forthcoming events on the Waterford Garden Trail programme include Bluebell Day at Curraghmore on May 1st in aid of Irish Injured Jockeys and a literary evening of poetry reading in Tramore’s stunning Lafcadio Hearn Japanese Gardens on May 7th. ‘Souls in Flight’, The Butterfly Imagery of Lafcadio Hearn and Sean Dunne will comprise of readings, song and dance, based on a theme drawn from Hearn’s essay “Butterflies’, published in his most famous book ‘Kwaidan’, which inspired Sean Dunne’s poem ‘The Butterfly Soul’. The public is also invited to learn to build a clay oven on May 7th and 8th at Blackwater Garden Centre. Join Gary Dalton, experienced Electric Picnic clay oven builder for a fun, 2-day course in clay oven building. Enjoy refreshments on both days to include welcome treats, lunch and afternoon tea as well as your own, homemade pizza! See w w w. b l a c k w a t e r plantsplus.ie for details.

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Comeragh District’s newest Councillor is welcomed at meeting By Paul Mooney COMERAGH District’s newest Councillor, Ray Murphy from Portlaw, was welcomed at the March meeting of the District Council. At the outset of the meeting, Cathaoirleach Cllr. Liam Brazil extended a welcome to Cllr. Murphy, who was co-opted onto Cllr. Mary Butler’s seat after she was elected to Dáil Eireann as a TD during the recent General Election. Cllr. Brazil said it was nice to see one of the Comeragh members getting elected to Dáil Eireann. “We did wish Mary Butler well at our last meeting, and our good wishes came to fruition,” said Cllr. Brazil. “I would like to wish Cllr. Ray Murphy well. We work as a team here in Comeragh. “A team effort is very important. We have a big constituency here in the Comeragh area and we are serving the people from

Butlerstown back as far as Cappoquin, so it is important that we work together. “When we work together it is then that we get the work done,” Cllr. Brazil added. Cllr. Murphy is a longtime member of Fianna Fáil and was successfully selected at the party Convention recently to replace Mary Butler on Waterford Council. Cllr. Michael J. O’Ryan welcomed his party colleague to the District Council, and said he wishes Mary Butler well in her tenure as a TD for Waterford. “I’ve worked with Ray Murphy in the past through various roles in the party locally, and I welcome him here on behalf of the Fianna Fáil party,” said Cllr. O’Ryan. “I know he’ll be a brilliant representative, not only for Portlaw and Comeragh, but also for the County and City at large. I know he’s a hard worker.” Cllr. John O’Leary concurred, saying Cllr. Murphy

is very active in Portlaw and has served Fianna Fáil very well over the years. Cllr. Murphy held positions within the organisation - he is chairman of the Fianna Fáil Cumann in Portlaw; and served as secretary of Fianna Fáil’s Comhairle Ceanntair; and chairman of Fianna Fáil’s County Waterford Comhairle Dáil Ceanntair. “He is very much involved in the GAA as well,” said Cllr. O’Leary. “So, he brings a good depth of experience to this position and I know that he will work hard and serve the people to his best capacity. He is very welcome on board,” Cllr. O’Leary added. Cllr. Seanie Power welcomed Cllr. Murphy to the Council. “I know Ray and the Murphy family all my life and they steeped in politics. His father was on Carrick Council for many years,” said Cllr. Power. “We all work together for the good of the Comeragh area and I’m sure Ray will fit well in

with us.” Speaking on behalf of the Council executive and staff, Director of Services, Fergus Galvin concurred with the sentiments expressed and welcomed Cllr. Murphy to the Comeragh District, and assured their co-operation and assistance going forward. Responding to the good wishes, Cllr. Murphy expressed thanks for the kind words and sentiments. “It is an honour to have been co-opted to Waterford City and County Council representing the Comeragh region,” said Cllr. Murphy. “Firstly, I would like to wish outgoing Councillor, Deputy Mary Butler all the best in her role as a TD. I am honoured to have been coopted by the members of Fianna Fáil in the Comeragh area to take up her seat on the Council and I look forward to working with all the Councillors in the Comeragh area and the bigger city and county region over the next three years.”

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Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Enjoying the Brickeys and Dungarvan Darts match at The Park Hotel recently were (l. to r.): Gillian Collins, Jonathan Regan, Fern Power, Trevor Crotty and Nicola O’Keeffe And they’re off on the walk at the 4th Annual Aglish fun run/walk on Easter Monday held in aid of Crumlin Children's Hospital.

Enjoying the Brickeys and Dungarvan Darts match at The Park Hotel recently were (l. to r.): Fintan Gee, Paddy Barron, Maireád McGrath and Esther Barron.

Linda Garcia and her son David pictured completing the 4th Annual Aglish fun run/walk held in aid of Crumlin Children's Hospital.

Mary and Ann O'Brien pictured coming into complete the 4th Annual Aglish fun run/walk on Easter Monday held in aid of Crumlin Children's Hospital.

Enjoying the Brickeys and Dungarvan Darts match at The Park Hotel recently were (l. to r.): Emmet Gaffney, Mossie Lynch and Tommy Lynch who played for the Brickeys and in front their cousin Henry O’Keeffe who lined out with Dungarvan.

The Shalloe sisters Tracy and Triona along with Nala and Rossie took part in the 4th Annual Aglish fun run/walk held in aid of Crumlin Children's Hospital.

Enjoying the Brickeys and Dungarvan Darts Enjoying the Brickeys and Dungarvan Darts match at The Park Hotel recently were (l. to r.): match at The Park Hotel recently were (l. to r.): Conor Fitzgerald, Trevor Galvin and Majella Mikey Power, Cormac Curran and Aoife Leahy. Fitzgerald.

Enjoying the Brickeys and Dungarvan Darts Enjoying the Brickeys and Dungarvan Darts match at The Park Hotel recently were (l. to r.): match at The Park Hotel recently were (l. to r.): Edwina Cooney and Aodhán Kealy. Nora Cooney and Jacinta Gee.

Padraig de Burca, Noelle Conway and Ann Crowther pictured at the 4th Annual Aglish fun run/walk Easter Monday held in aid of Crumlin Children's Hospital.

Tom Moroney pictured at the 4th Annual Aglish fun run/walk held in aid of Crumlin Children's Hospital.

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Moylan’s star continues to rise as she enters quarter-finals of The Voice of Ireland

GEANEY & O’NEILL

LOCAL SUPPORT SOUGHT DURING PUBLIC VOTING STAGE THE star of Abbeyside, Moylan Brunnock, continues to rise, as she prepares for the Quarter Finals of RTÉ’s The Voice of Ireland this coming Sunday, 10th April. Her unique singing voice and fantastic performances have endeared her to the public and the coaches, with Coach Bressie recognising Moylan’s exceptional talent and bringing her through to the Quarter Finals of the show. It is this stage of the show when she will be relying on votes from the public, and Moylan has made a special appeal to the people of Dungarvan and County Waterford to vote for her this coming Sunday. The competition has been like a ‘whirlwind’ for Moylan as she comes to terms with making it through to the Quarter Finals. “It has gone really fast. I can’t believe how quickly it is going,” said Moylan, speaking to the Dungarvan Observer. “The competition is down to 12 people at this stage and it is getting pretty crazy.” She described the other 11 competitors as “insanely good” and she can’t find fault with their performances. “When I got through to the Quarter Finals it didn’t really hit me until the fol-

lowing day,” said Moylan. “I initially didn’t expect to get through the audition stage. At every stage, I was shocked I got through, but I’m happy to get through to this stage of the show.” Moylan, a former student of St. Augustine’s College, has a huge passion for singing and music. She started out in traditional music and Seán Nos singing. As well as performing in various bars around Dungarvan, Moylan was guest singer at the St. Patrick’s Day festivities in Dungarvan earlier in March. “It was lovely to sing at the Dungarvan St. Patrick’s Day Festivities,” said Moylan. “Everyone was so lovely, wishing me well and I got to talk to people about the competition. “There was a lovely vibe on the day and I’m lucky to be doing what I really love - singing.” During the Quarter Finals, there will be three contestants on each team and the top act from the public vote will automatically go through, while the coach will decide which of the remaining two acts will also go through. The Semi-Final of the show will be held on Sunday, 17th April, with the Grand Final on Sunday,

24th April. The prize for the winning act will be a recording contract with Universal. As the competition hots up, Moylan said she is feeling more confident when she goes out on stage. “When I think back to the blind auditions and the battle stages of the show, I was so nervous. I was apprehensive at the live shows, but my confidence has grown,” said Moylan. “It is a combination of things, such as have a ‘run through’ eight times before going on stage, so that I’m ready to go out on stage and give it my all - because it could be my last performance. You have 90 seconds or so to prove yourself on stage and give it everything you have.” Moylan praised the coaches on the show (Niall (Bressie) Breslin; Rachel Stevens; Kian Egan; and Una Foden). “All the coaches are lovely and it is so nice to talk with people who have a lot of experience in the industry,” said Moylan. She praised her own Team Coach, Bressie, for his support. “Bressie is so normal to chat to about anything. He is very supportive and gives good direction. He knows what he is talking about,” she said. Moylan said she was stunned and moved by the

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support shown by local people, friends, neighbours, and her former school. “It is so lovely having everyone back me up in this,” she said. Moylan thanked her family members, her parents and grandparents for all their support. She also thanked her friends at home and college for their support and for the support shown by her old school, St. Augustine’s College and her current college, St. Patrick’s College, Dublin; and Dungarvan No Name

Club, of which she was a member. Moylan paid special tribute to all her supporters and the public who have supported her throughout the competition. “I am asking everyone to tune in this Sunday, 10th April, and support me through votes,” said Moylan. The number to ring / text to cast your vote in support of Moylan will be revealed on the Voice of Ireland Quarter Finals this Sunday on RTÉ One from 6.30 p.m.

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Third jet patcher a possibility for Comeragh area THE Senior Engineer has said if the Comeragh area requires a third self-contained patching unit to repair damaged roads in the District, then he will consider it “positively” once the other resources have been reviewed. Cllr. Michael J. O’Ryan and Cathaoirleach, Cllr. Liam Brazil had proposed at a previous meeting that the Plenary Council consider designating a third self-contained patching unit for the Comeragh area to tackle the widespread damage caused to roads over the Winter period. At the March meeting of

the Comeragh District Council, they queried whether their proposal had been followed up. “We already have two self-contained patching units, we feel we need three, so as not have one ferry between the districts,” said Cllr. O’Ryan. “We have to look into getting a third machine we don’t want to be spending money foolishly and we want the best resource, and we feel it is the self-contained patcher are the best resource.” Senior Engineer, Pat McCarthy said it is at his discretion in relation to

what machines are used in various areas. He said the Comeragh District has two self-contained patching units currently working in the area, along with a third portable unit which can be moved on or off the Council scut truck. He said there is also a jet patcher which will be made available to the Comeragh area on a calendar basis; and another machine, a new jet patcher / combi-unit, which will also be available to the various districts on a calendar basis. “So in the context of all those, there will be a lot of

resources going into patching in all of the areas, not just the Comeragh area alone,” said Mr. McCarthy. “If, on top of all that, we need a patcher, we will certainly look at it positively.” He said we are now heading into the road works ‘season’ and people will see the benefits of the road works from now on and the Council’s ability to carry out repairs to roads effectively. Cllr. Brazil described the jet patcher as ‘unreliable’, pointing out that the Comeragh area was supposed to have the machine for two weeks last month.

“Up until our last meeting, we only had it for one day and I believe it broke down. As far as I can see, it is breaking down, or has no driver a lot of the time,” said Cllr. Brazil. Cllr. O’Ryan made the point that a lot of roads in the constituency area of Comeragh are the type of roads “you would never get a jet patcher near”. “I know a lot of roads around Clonmel are just barely accessible. This is why we are pushing for a third self-contained patching unit and I can’t promise this issue won’t come up again,” Cllr. O’Ryan added.

Open daily 10.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. during National Heritage Week Other times, groups and after June by appointment

Contact: 058 54608 Admission: €5.00 (Children under 12 free)

Salterbridge House & Garden CAPPOQUIN

Open for Visitors 6th to 29th April (Except Saturdays & Sundays)

30th April to 27th May & 16th to 28th August Open 9.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. Open at other times by prior arrangement. Groups by prior arrangement please! www.salterbridgehouseandgarden.com

PICTORIAL

Caoimhe and Ann Troy pictured at the registration desk for the recent 50K Cycle for Mental Health & Suicide Awareness at Lemybrien. [Dan McGrath/Editorial Images]

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Kieran Foley passes through Bunmahon during the recent 50K Cycle for Mental Health & Suicide Awareness at Lemybrien. Cyclist taking part inthe recent 50K Cycle for Mental Health & Suicide Awareness at Lemybrien.

[Dan McGrath/Editorial Images]

Christy Connolly and Brian Kirwan pictured after the recent 50K Cycle for Mental Health & Suicide Awareness at Lemybrien. [Dan McGrath/Editorial Images]

Ciss Hearne and Breda Costello pictured after the recent 50K Cycle for Mental Health & Suicide Awareness at Lemybrien. [Dan McGrath/Editorial Images]

Joan Power, Liam Brazil, Event Organiser, and Noreen Flynn pictured during the recent 50K Cycle for Mental Health & Suicide Awareness at Lemybrien. [Dan McGrath/Editorial Images]

Dylan and Eamon Clancy pictured at the start of the recent 50K Cycle for Mental Health & Suicide Awareness at Lemybrien. Noel O'Connell, John O'Connell, Richard O'Connell and Mary Sheridan pictured after the recent 50K Cycle for Mental Health & Suicide Awareness at Lemybrien. [Dan McGrath/Editorial Images]

Michelle Whelan, Rachel Beckett, Emma Glynn and Martina Cashin pictured after the recent 50K Cycle for Mental Health & Suicide Awareness at Lemybrien. [Dan McGrath/Editorial Images]

Group of cyclists from Dungarvan pictured at the recent 50K Cycle for Mental Health & Suicide Awareness at Lemybrien. [Dan McGrath/Editorial Images]

[Dan McGrath/Editorial Images]

Declan Mulhearne and John Howard pictured ahead of the recent 50K Cycle for Mental Health & Suicide Awareness at Lemybrien. [Dan McGrath/Editorial Images]

Cyclist taking part in the recent 50K Cycle for Mental Health & Suicide Awareness at Lemybrien. [Dan McGrath/Editorial Images]

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

NEWS

HEARING AIDS you hard of hearing? ARE Are YOU HARD OF HEARING? CONVENTIONAL HEARING AIDS MAY NOT BE NEEDED

Visit our Monthly Hearing Aid Clinic at

MURRAY’S PHARMACY 41 GRATTAN SQUARE, DUNGARVAN • 058 41130

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Professional Evaluation of your Hearing Demonstration of benefits of Digital Hearing Aids PRSI Grant for eligible contributors and their spouse Concessions for Medical Card holders Full aftercare service Irish owned company

For appointment phone 021-4546437

Kilmeaden winner in Waterford Credit Union Car Draw – Theresa Gamble of Kilmeaden was the winner of a Toyota Yaris in the Waterford Credit Union Members Car Draw for the month of March, pictured with her sister Monica Jacob and brother-in-law Larry Jacob, accepting the keys to her new car from Linda O'Kane of Waterford Credit Union and Don Whelan of McConnell's Toyota Car Sales.

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HEARING

National Conference for Samaritans WATERFORD and South East Samaritans will be hosting the National Conference for Samaritans at the Tower Hotel in Waterford on 8th and 9th of April, 2016. The Conference was last held in Waterford in 1992 and it is expected that 250 delegates from 21 branches of Samaritans through the 32 Counties

of Ireland will attend. Anthony Hamilton, Director of the Waterford Branch, said that this is a very special year for the branch as not alone are we hosting this very important Conference but it also marks the fact that we have been in Waterford for 40 years. We are proud to have been able to

provide support to anyone going through an emotional crisis since 1976 and I would like to acknowledge all the people who have volunteered for us over that time. I would also like to thank everyone who has supported us financially over the years as we could not have continued to provide our services without that support.

CLINIC 29, BISHOPSTOWN ROAD, CORK www.audivox.ie info@audivox.ie Mr. Garrett D. Fleming, M.I.S.H.A.A, upgraded his qualifications and recently graduated in Audiology Hearing Health from University in Cambridge U.K. Make an appointment to benefit from Mr. Fleming's expertise

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Pictured at the presentation of a cheque for €1,500 from Ulster Bank, The Quay, Waterford, to Waterford and South East Samaritans were Patricia White, PRO, Samaritans; Rory Fitzgerald, Corporate Affairs, Samaritans; Anthony Hamilton, Director, Samaritans; Bryan Walsh, Branch Manager, Ulster Bank, The Quay, Waterford, and Freda Morrissey, Customer Advisor, Ulster Bank. [John Power]

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NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Persistent achy groin pain when playing hurling and football

By Tomás Ryan BSc., AHS, Ph.Th. MIAPT, Registered Physical Therapist based in Clonmel and Thurles. This week, I will talk about Groin in a young adult that has been persistent for the past month with no sign of easing. The adult in question recently returned to playing hurling after a year away, and has begun to experience achy groin pain immediately when running and also after 20 minutes when sitting down. He has had no traumatic injury or no history of lower back or Hip Pain. His Symptoms and aggravating factors are listed below: SYMPTOMS & AGGRAVATING FACTORS Achy Groin Pain, away from the Pubic region. No Pain in buttock, no Lower back pain, no issues with hernia or abdominal related pain. Groin Pain when lying on his back with knees straight Slight Pain with walking, when hip is pulled backwards into extension No Clicking or catching of Hip Aggravated with Running and playing Hurling & after 20 minutes of sitting Left Groin Pain when he twists or turns to painful side. Pain when knees are squeezed together and when squatting WHAT IS THE INJURY? The injury is classified as an Adductor related groin pain, due to pain on knees squeeze test and pain on a functional twisting movement to the painful side. I can arrive at this diagnosis due to no pain hip flexor resistance and painfree Hip Internal & External rotation plus no clicking, thus discounting Hip Flexor and Hip Labrum irritation involvement. TREATMENT & MANAGEMENT Simply massaging the groins and glutes muscles will not work! It is irritated on movement overload of the Adductor Groin tendons, so hence I need to commence isometric squeeze exercises at a painfree level which in this case is the patient lying on their spine and squeezing a pillow between knees with approximately 70% of their strength. This technique, when used with correct diagnosis, can help relieve pain on left turning movement, hence I used it as an isometric exercise before and after running, helping to reduce groin pain significantly. The exercises were progressed overtime to dynamic strengthening with the following principles adhered to; Avoid Stretching adductors & Hip Flexors - irritates pain Reduce Running durations Avoid Deep squats and side lunges Avoid side-stepping & Cutting Movements Please note that this treatment plan was used only when I correctly diagnosed the pain and she not be used in the event where groin pain has not been correctly diagnosed! Tomás Ryan is a Registered Physical Therapist with The Irish Association of Physical Therapy and is based in Clonmel & Thurles. Contact Number: 0504 26672. Email tomaspryan@gmail.com

The search for ten 2016 Nissan Generation Next ambassadors was launched by the members of the Class of 2015. Pictured back row (left to right) Alan Cadogan, Monika Dukarska, Paul O'Donovan, Gareth Sheridan, Ciara Judge; middle row (left - right) Catherine McManus, Arthur Lanigan-O'Keeffe, Jenny Egan; front row (left to right) Emer Hickey, Rebecca Marsden. [Ark Photography]

Free cars up for grabs as Nissan backs Waterford’s leaders and champions NISSAN is giving away a brand new, taxed and insured car or van to anyone in Waterford who has what it takes to become one of Ireland’s future leaders and champions. Innovators and movers and shakers from all walks of life across the county have a golden opportunity to win a new Nissan for a year to get ahead on their journey to success, thanks to Nissan and local dealers Dungarvan Nissan and Walsh’s Car Sales Waterford. Applications to secure the keys to one of ten award-winning Nissan cars and vans are now being sought as part of the innovative Nissan Generation Next ambassador programme, which is back for a third year. “We are looking for people who are confident, focused and passionate about what they do in life and who could use a brand new, taxed and insured Nissan to help them achieve their goals,” explained Richard Walsh, Sales Manager, Walsh’s Car Sales. “Nissan Generation Next is designed to support ambitious people who are driven to succeed.

Nissan has already put 20 of Ireland’s new generation of leaders and champions on the road to success and anyone from Waterford could be next,” he added. Since 2014 Nissan Generation Next has helped new business entrepreneurs to find their feet in domestic and global markets, elite athletes to achieve their dreams of qualifying for the Olympic Games and talented scientists, writers and film makers to succeed on the world stage. The Class of 2015 included Gareth Sheridan (25) whose company Nutriband produces transdermal patches that deliver nutrients and vitamins through the skin. With new production facilities in North American and worldwide distribution agreements, Gareth is well on track to creating a global brand. Arthur Lanigan O’Keeffe (23) recorded history when he became the first Irish pentathlete to win gold at the 2015 European Modern Pentathlon Championships, securing his place as a medal contender at the Rio Olympic Games.

Fashion designer Rebecca Marsden (26) was named Irish Designer of the Year on her way to establishing her label and establishing her career in the fashion capitals of London and Milan. Former BT Young Scientists and Technology Exhibition winners Ciara Judge, Emer Hickey and Sophie Healy-Thow are influencing and shaping the fast moving world of digital technology.The trio have been named by Time magazine as the most influential teenagers in the world. “Nissan Generation Next ambassadors exemplify what it takes to make it on the national and world stage.They forge ahead with tenacity and determination and their ability to focus on what they want to achieve and to overcome the obstacles and challenges that they encounter is truly inspirational,” said Richard Walsh, Sales Manager, Walsh’s Car Sales. HOW TO APPLY Applicants for the 2016 Nissan Generation Next progamme can apply online at www.nissangenerationnext.ie.

Applicants will be requested to briefly outline why they are an ideal candidate for Nissan Generation Next and how Nissan can help them to achieve the goals. Family members and friends can also make applications on behalf of individuals whom they consider to be an ideal Nissan Generation Next ambassador. The closing date for applications is Tuesday, 10th May 2016. A shortlist of 20 candidates from those who apply nationwide will be announced soon after and put forward to a four-week public voting phase. The seven individuals generating the largest number of votes will win a place on the Nissan Generation Next ambassador programme. The judges at Nissan will also select three applicants whom they believe are deserving of a place on the Nissan Generation Next ambassador programme, giving applicants another opportunity to achieve their dreams and never look back with the support of Nissan’s commitment to excellence and innovation.

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Scoil Gharbháin Gaelscoil Dún na Mainistreach Dún Garbhán Pat Whyte and Matt Houlihan of Printmaster, Dungarvan.

Printmaster Signs up to new chapter as local businessmen team up! PRINTMASTER, located in the Westgate Business Park, Dungarvan, has recently been acquired by local business man, Pat Whyte. The business which operates from a purpose built state of the art facility has been successfully developed by Matt Houlihan to its current level of activity, from humble beginnings in Matt’s garage in his home town of Lismore. Commenting on the development, Matt, who

has operated the printing and signage facility business for the last sixteen years, said the sale of his business to Pat, was great news for Printmaster and a strong vote of confidence in the Staff Members and overall business. “The Printmaster brand has significant affinity in County Waterford, spanning the last sixteen years and bringing the business to this level has personally been a great journey for

me. We have fantastic staff, who believe in providing great service to the local people and will continue doing so in our new set-up, going forward. “I would like to thank our customers for their business and loyal support in the past and l look forward to providing an even greater service in the future, as we embark on the next chapter in the development of the Printmaster business.”

Commenting on the acquisition, Pat said: “We are delighted to be teaming up with Matt (who will head up the Operations side of the business going forward) and his dedicated team at Printmaster, who have built up a great reputation in the local area. We look forward to building on Matt’s successes to date in growing and developing the business in the future.

Iontráil do 2016/17 Enrolment for 2016/17 Foirm Iontrála ar fáil. Enrolment forms available on request.

Gach eolas ó 058 42173 Cuirfear Fáilte Romhat

Gardaí continue hunt for criminal gang involved in ramming Garda car GARDAÍ are continuing their hunt for criminal suspects who rammed a Garda patrol car in West Waterford last week, in which an officer sustained injuries. Gardaí have located the suspect vehicle, an Audi A4, which is being forensically examined by detectives. The collision occurred on Tuesday evening, 29th March, when a Garda officer attempted to stop the suspect vehicle. A travelling criminal gang who are believed to be operating from the Tallaght / Clondalkin area of Dublin were spotted leaving a house in Fermoy following a burglary and a detailed description of their getaway vehicle was circulated. The vehicle was spotted between

Cappoquin and Dungarvan by the Garda officer, but he was rammed by the criminal’s vehicle when he attempted to stop it. It is understood the Audi A4 was damaged in the collision, but they managed to make their escape. Gardaí later found the vehicle abandoned in a woodland area not far from the scene of the collision. The Garda officer involved in the ramming incident was taken to hospital with non-life threatening injuries. He is currently recovering from his injuries. Gardaí have appealed to the public for information, and anyone who noticed a dark / black coloured Audi A4 with partial registration plate 10LS- in the West Waterford area on the

evening in question is asked to contact detectives at Dungarvan Garda Station on 058-48600. NEIGHBOURHOOD VIGILANCE Meanwhile, members of the public are reminded to note the details of any suspicious vehicles / people in their neighbourhood and contact the Gardaí. If residents see anything suspicious in their community, or suspicious activity at a neighbour’s house, to report it immediately to the Gardaí. A simple phone call to the Garda Station with a vehicle registration, description of the vehicle and person(s) and any other information could be important in helping to prevent or detect a crime in your area.

New Season Joan & Bob’s Wild Garlic Pesto

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An Chúirt Dúiche …

Dungarvan District Court

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Woman taken into custody after outburst during court proceedings A WOMAN who interrupted court proceedings by shouting from the back of the public gallery was taken into custody at last week’s Dungarvan District Court. Following a commotion at the back of the court between two women who

were defendants, the third woman, later identified as Leah Bray, had begun to roar and shout at one of the other women in the court. Leah Bray accused the other woman of pushing past her sister in the court. The incident had taken place while a case was

being heard in the court. Judge Terence Finn directed the Gardaí to take Leah Bray into custody, saying he was imposing seven days imprisonment on her for contempt of court. However, at the end of the day when court pro-

ceedings were finished, Leah Bray was brought before the court and she apologised for her earlier outburst. Judge Finn said the accused was not entitled to interrupt court proceedings and said if she had a complaint or issue with

another person, it should be brought to the attention of the Gardaí. Judge Finn said the court accepted her apology, and rescinded his earlier order of seven days imprisonment, and said the woman was free to leave the court.

Dungarvan man convicted of assaulting Detective Garda A DUNGARVAN man who accepted that he struck a Garda officer twice into the side of the face pleaded not guilty to assault at last week’s sitting of Dungarvan District Court. Colin Cairns (31) unemployed, with an address at Skehacrine, Abbeyside, Dungarvan, was convicted of assaulting Detective Garda Joe Wyse at Wolfe Tone Road, Dungarvan, on 28th September, 2014. Det. Garda Wyse told Judge Terence Finn that he was on duty on the night in question in plain clothes, but was wearing a standard-issue dark navy rainjacket with the Garda badge on the breast of the jacket and ‘GARDA’ in a large font emblazoned on the back of the jacket. He said he was accompanying Sergeant Stephen Murphy, who was in full Garda uniform on the night, when they came upon a disturbance around midnight. Det. Garda Wyse said that while they were attempting to deal with the disturbance, two males approached, one of them who was the accused. “The accused approached and asked ‘what’s going on guards’,” said Det. Garda Wyse. “He then attempted to get involved in the incident. I asked him to stop and leave the area. There was a strong smell of intoxicating liquor on his breath and his eyes were bloodshot.” Det. Garda Wyse said he was struck twice into the side of the face by the accused. He said that with the assistance of Sgt. Murphy, the accused was arrested, placed in handcuffs and taken to the Garda Station. Det. Garda Wyse said the accused stated: ‘If I knew you were a guard I wouldn’t have struck you’. Solicitor Paddy Gordon said his client claims he was punched in the chest by Det. Garda Wyse. Det. Garda Wyse disagreed with the accused’s claim. “I didn’t put my hand on the accused until I arrested him,” said Det. Garda Wyse. Sgt. Murphy, giving evidence, said he was dealing with an incident on the night in question involving a female who was shouting at Wolfe Tone Road in the direction of a local licensed premises. The female became embroiled

in an argument with another female which required him to intervene to calm the situation. Sgt. Murphy said two males then approached from the direction of the pub. He said one of the males got involved with the argument with the female, while the second male, the accused, asked: ‘What’s going on guards?’ He said the first male and female “went at each other”, resulting in the situation escalating. Sgt. Murphy said while he dealt with the situation, he heard Det. Garda Wyse shouting ‘Stop Gardaí, Stop’. “I observed the accused hitting Det. Garda Wyse twice into the side of the head,” said Sgt. Murphy. He said he observed the accused attempt to strike Det. Garda Wyse a third time. “I also shouted ‘Garda, stop!,” said Sgt. Murphy. He said he assisted Det. Garda Wyse to restrain the accused, whom he described as intoxicated. “After caution, the accused said he didn’t know he hit a Garda,” said Sgt. Murphy. The court heard that the following day, the accused came into the station and handed in a letter, which was accepted as a voluntary cautious statement. Sgt. Murphy read the statement in court. The accused said in his statement that he had been in the pub and had followed a friend out. He said he was on his way home at the time. He said he saw his friend engage in conversation with an ex-girlfriend and it was at that moment a man (Det. Garda Wyse) approached him. “A man I never saw before walked up to me. I thought he was going to attack me. I took a few steps back, then I punched him as I felt threatened,” the accused said in his statement. “The man was in normal plain clothes and I had no idea he was a Garda.” Cairns said he punched Det. Garda Wyse in “self defence”. Taking the witness stand, Cairns admitted he had alcohol taken on the night and was making his way up the street on his own. He said he observed his friend talking with an ex-girlfriend.

Cairns acknowledged he observed the Sergeant and had said ‘What’s going on here guard”. He said he made his way towards his friend to try and calm him down. Cairns claimed he was punched in the chest by a man (Det. Garda Wyse) and forced backwards. “I panicked and felt threatened, that’s why I threw the punches,” said Cairns. Inspector David Nolan questioned how much drink Cairns had on the night. Cairns admitted he had a ‘flagon of cider’ at home earlier in the day; two or three pints in the pub later in the evening, along with a shot. Insp. Nolan asked Cairns why he went to interfere with the escalating situation. Cairns replied he thought his friend would be arrested and was trying to bring him out of it and bring him up home. Insp. Nolan said leaving aside the fact that Det. Garda Wyse was a Garda officer, why did Cairns feel the need to throw punches? Cairns replied “I felt threatened, because I just got punched in the chest by a person I never saw before”. “It happened so fast,” he added. Insp. Nolan pointed out that Cairns did not mention being punched in the chest in his statement which was made the following day. “You went to the trouble of preparing a letter the next day and there is no mention of you being punched in the chest,” Insp. Nolan pointed out. Cairns said it was after he made his statement that he spoke with other ‘witnesses’. Insp. Nolan, reading Cairns’ statement to the court: “I thought he was going to attack me the way he came up to me and the way he was looking at me”. “Which version is correct?” questioned Insp. Nolan. “The version in your letter or what you are telling this court in evidence?” Cairns said he was told more information afterwards by some people who were at the scene at the time, which he described as ‘witnesses’. Cairns said there was several things he got wrong in his letter,

and said he should have spoken with the ‘witnesses’ before he made his statement. However, Insp. Nolan said that would be “a contamination of evidence”. Cairns insisted he was told the correct version of what occurred. “I was punched in the chest and forced backwards. I never saw him (Det. Garda Wyse) before. I though I was going to be attacked again, which is why I threw the punches,” said Cairns. Insp. Nolan said the claim by Cairns of getting punched in the chest was not in the statement he made. Cairns said everything happened so fast and there were ‘blackspots’. He accepted he had not included in his statement his claim about being punched in the chest. Insp. Nolan asked Cairns why he attempted to interfere in the incident, when there was one Garda on the scene who was capable of dealing with matters. Cairns said he saw his mate involved and wanted to bring him out of it. “Why did you hit a Garda?” asked Insp. Nolan. “I didn’t know he was a Garda. I was defending myself. It was self defence,” Cairns told the court. Insp. Nolan said Det. Garda Wyse had his hands out to prevent Cairns from interfering, which Cairns described as “not true”. Cairns said he “made my statement too early” and should have “talked to the witnesses” first. Insp. Nolan said Cairns made the statement when the details were still fresh in his mind. Insp. Nolan asked Cairns if he felt threatened, why did he not shout stop, run away, or call for help, considering he knew there was at least one Garda on the scene. “Things happened so fast,” Cairns replied. He said he panicked. “This guy was starting on me and I just lashed out. It was self defence,” said Cairns. “Against what?” replied Insp. Nolan. “I was hit in the chest,” Cairns said. Insp. Nolan noted that Cairns did not make any complaint of assault to the Superintendent or Garda Ombudsman. Answering questions from

Judge Finn, Cairns said he spoke with the female who was present on the night and her current boyfriend. Neither of them were in court to give evidence. Mr. Gordon said his client accepted he struck Det. Garda Wyse, but felt he wanted to get his point across in court about the circumstances of the incident. Mr. Gordon said his client did not avoid the incident or deal properly with the ‘perceived threat’. “Fortunately, there was no serious injury to the Garda,” said Mr. Gordon. Judge Finn noted that Cairns wrote a letter about the incident the very next day, which was submitted to the Gardaí as a voluntary cautious statement. He said the letter makes no reference to any punch by Det. Garda Wyse, but the letter is clear that Cairns admits he took some steps backwards because he ‘felt threatened’ and acted in self defence. Judge Finn said the accused later received information from ‘witnesses’ stating he was punched in the chest by the Garda, but that was not mentioned in Cairns’ letter at all. Judge Finn said Cairns decided to take action because he took several steps backwards and because the way the Garda was looking at him. He said the accused can, in no way, claim self defence. “It was a clear and outright attack - a unilateral attack on his part,” said Judge Finn. Judge Finn noted Det. Garda Wyse’s evidence that he received two punches to the side of the face from Cairns, while Sgt. Murphy’s evidence goes further, stating that Cairns “was shaping up for a third blow” on Det. Garda Wyse before he was restrained by the two Gardaí. Judge Finn said he had “no hesitation” in convicting Cairns of the assault charge. “The accused had his say in court, but it flies in the face of clear evidence given to the court,” said Judge Finn. Insp. Nolan informed the court that Cairns has six previous convictions. In mitigation, Mr. Gordon said his client did not set out to get involved in an incident. “My client felt he wanted to put his side to the court. He

bears no ill will to the Garda and apologises to the Garda. My client regrets what happened.” Judge Finn said the Gardaí have a difficult enough job at the best of times to ensure there is no trouble. “They are well able to anticipate trouble before it gets out of hand,” said Judge Finn. “They came across a female who was apparently roaring her head off, and another female became embroiled in the row, followed by a male entering the equation. “The Gardaí were attempting to ensure the peace of local residents was not disturbed at midnight. “The Sergeant was in full uniform and the Detective Garda was sufficiently identifiable front and back.” Judge Finn said that on a daily basis, he hears excuses in the courts of people wanting to come to help or assist a friend who is the subject of Garda intervention. “That is becoming so common now and particularly at the point when an arrest is being made. Gardaí have a difficult jobs to do and they should be allowed to do it without difficulty. “I cannot have parties interfering with a Garda operation by taking the law into their own hands!” Judge Finn said Cairns claimed he was punched by Det. Garda Wyse - information which was received from someone who did not offer that evidence in court. “The accused felt threatened by the Garda because of the way he looked at him, so he stepped back and decided to take action. The accused had also consumed a quantity of alcohol before he engaged with the Gardaí.” Judge Finn said the accused appears to have a skewed interpretation of self defence. In legislation, self defence is a limited and reasonable amount of force so that an attacking person desists from their attack. Judge Finn also noted the accused’s statement: ‘I wouldn’t have hit him if I knew he was a Garda’. “He is not entitled to hit anyone,” said Judge Finn. Judge Finn adjourned the case to 27th April, 2016, for a Probation Service report on the accused to see if he is suitable for community service.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

NEWS

Marked improvement in bathing waters in County Waterford

Received Hi Healthy Ireland Pre School Services Award – Front row: Fiona and Ann from Tigh Súgradh's Early Years Service, Clonea Lower, Dungarvan, and Karen from Kiddies Kingdom, Fenor National School, who recently received awards for their Childcare Services being certified Healthy Ireland Smart Start Services. This involved maintaining health promotion practices in our services under: Health Promotion, Emotional Well Being/Literacy, Physical Activity, Nutrition/Healthy Eating, Oral Health, Health and Safety as well as an assessment visit. Back row: Organising Committee for Healthy Ireland Smart Start Programme.

THERE has been a marked improvement in the bathing water around County Waterford, according to an EPA report for 2015. Beaches at Clonea Strand, Counsellors’ Strand and Dunmore Strand in Dunmore East, and Tramore Beach were all ranked ‘excellent’ by the EPA for another consecutive year. Bonmahon Beach was ranked overall as ‘sufficient’ by the EPA, which said the beach “remains vulnerable to pollution arising from the Mahon River, which drains adjacent to the bathing area”. Meanwhile, Ardmore, which was classed as ‘poor’ in 2014 was upgraded to ‘sufficient’ in 2015, following a new wastewater treatment plant constructed and commissioned in late 2015, resulting in marked improvements in the bathing water quality. The EPA said improvements to the systems for the disinfection of sewage effluent at Ardmore in 2015 resulted in a notable improvement in water quality with only 1 sample of 9 showing ‘Poor’ quality. This sample was taken after heavy rainfall which may have impacted on the efficiency of the disinfection process. Following this, further improvements were made to increase the dosage of chlorine solution if rainfall was expected. Youghal Front Strand, which was also classed as ‘poor’ in 2014 remained at the classification of ‘poor’ for 2015. The EPA said that while Youghal Front Strand showed an improved performance in 2015 compared to previous years, it is drawn down due to the impacts of high bacterial counts from CSO operation during the wet Summer of 2012. The EPA said that if the current performance is main-

tained at Youghal Front Strand during 2016, it is likely to return to at least ‘sufficient’ classification. The EPA said that during the 2015 bathing season, the water quality at Youghal Front Strand was considerably better than that experienced in several of the previous bathing seasons reflecting the benefits of the significant investment in improvements to the sewerage network within the town. The bathing water however is still formally classified as ‘Poor’ but this reflects the impacts of the wet summer of 2012 and isolated high counts in 2013 and 2014. If comparable quality to that observed in 2015 occurs in 2016 the bathing water is likely to return to at least ‘Sufficient’ classification. Work on the construction of a wastewater treatment plant for the town should bring about further improvements in water quality however the proximity of the beach to the River Blackwater may mean that even with the new wastewater plant the possibility of low level bacterial pollution from agricultural inputs remains a potential pressure. In relation to other waters monitored by the Local Authority where bathing takes place, Annestown, Ballyquin Boatstrand, Curragh (Ardmore), Goat Island, Guillamene Cove, Kilfarrasy, and Newtown Cove were all ranked as ‘excellent’ in 2015; Whiting Bay was classed as ‘good’; Woodstown was classed as ‘sufficient’; while Ballyvooney and Stradbally were classed as ‘poor’. The EPA said Stradbally and Ballyvooney are indicated to be likely of ‘poor’ quality at times due to impacts from nearby wastewater discharges into surface waters which subsequently impact on those bathing areas. More information on the latest bathing water quality visit www.splash.epa.ie or Twitter @EPABathingWater.

Map of Ireland identified bathing waters.

Map of ‘Other monitored waters.’

Bench warrants issued for arrest of two women TWO women charged with theft of clothes from a Dungarvan retailer had bench warrants issued for their arrest when they failed to attend court last week. Celine O’Donoghue (20) with an address at 24 Fairfield Meadows, Fairhill, Cork; and Savannah O’Reilly (18) with an address at 1 The Commons, Fairhill, Cork, had both pleaded guilty at a previous sitting of the District Court, to theft from Heroes clothes shop, Dungarvan Shopping Centre, on 30th October, 2014.

Approximately €340 worth of clothes were taken in the incident, none of which was ever recovered and there has been no compensation paid. The case was adjourned to last week’s sitting of Dungarvan District Court to allow the two accused to come up with the compensation. However, at last week’s court, Judge Terence Finn was informed that neither of the two women were in court. He issued bench warrants for their arrest.

Road traffic prosecutions A ROMANIAN national found driving without an NCT was fined last week. Andrei Bivol (33) with an address at Green Street, Cappoquin, was fined €150 at last week’s Dungarvan District Court, for using a vehicle without an NCT when stopped by Gardaí at Ballinamuck, Dungarvan, on 10th August, 2015. ********** A SPEEDING charge was struck out after the motorist made a donation to the court poor box. Dermot Delaney, with an address at Munmahogue, Tramore, had told a previ-

ous sitting of the District Court that he never received any fixed charge penalty notice, which was issued after his vehicle was detected travelling at 84 km/h in a 60 km/h zone at Garranbane, Dungarvan, on 9th June, 2015. The case was adjourned to allow the accused to make a €150 donation to the court poor box. At last week’s Dungarvan District Court, Judge Terence Finn was told that the donation has been paid. He struck out the speeding charge.

Ervia constructing the outfall pipe along Ardmore Beach, which was upgraded to ‘sufficient’ in the latest EPA report.

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Waterford house prices rise 1.61% this year, survey finds THE price of the average three-bed semi detached house in Waterford has increased by 1.61% to €157,500 in the last three months, a nationwide property survey has found. The REA Average House Price Survey concentrates on the sale price of Ireland's typical stock home, the three-bed semi, giving an up-to-date picture of the property market in towns and cities countrywide to the end of Q1 this week. “It is evident that the scarcity of rental properties is having an upward impact on price in addition to enticing investors to return to the market,” said Eamonn Spratt from REA Spratt in Dungarvan. “There is no sign of the banks strong lending practices softening, in that borrowing capacity is a fraction of the market at the peak.” The market continues to improve and values are increasing.There is a serious shortage of stock and strong demand from investors and first-time buyers,” said Des

O’Shea from REA O’Shea O’Toole. The average three-bed semi nationally now costs €191,194, a rise of €2,824 or 1.5% on Q4 2015. The average price of a three-bed semi in Dublin City and County has risen by 0.6% from €332,000 to €334,000 in the first three months of the year. However, this activity is mainly centred on limited new building activity in the north of the county and pockets of south Dublin which have seen the return of the cash buyer to the market. While prices have risen slightly by €2,706 (+1.31%) to €209,559 in the commuter counties and main cities such as Cork and Galway, these rises are confined to the few towns that have new developments on the market. The biggest growth has been in towns in the rest of the country where prices have risen by 9.58% in the past year, and 2.59% since December, with the average three bed semi increasing from €122,161 to

€125,321. However, REA agents around the country state that many local rises are now being caused by lack of stock driving up prices. “We are seeing a marked absence of the 25-40 year olds at viewings in the capital over the past few months as, under the current Central Bank restrictions, they are finding it impossible to raise the deposits needed to purchase houses over the €220,000 limit,” said REA chairman Michael O’Connor. “Conversely, we are seeing growth in commuter interest in counties previously considered at the edge of the daily travelling limits such as Laois and Offaly, simply because the price is right. “Louth is the perfect example of this trend in commuter migration. Drogheda prices remained static at €197,500 in Q1 while commuter interest caused prices to rise by €10,000 to €135,000 in Dundalk, which is 35km further away from Dublin but over €60,000 cheaper on average. “Although supply is extremely limited, suitable properties are now being bought in these areas by buyers who are prepared to travel over an hour to work in the capital. “Lack of supply of suitable housing is the paramount issue nationwide, and while we have had rises in many areas, they are primarily driven by buyer competiton for the lowest supply we have seen in years.” With prices rising by 5.1%, and viewings up substantially, Limerick was Ireland’s fastest growing city in Q1, with three bed semis increasing by €8,000 to their current level of €165,000. Growth continued in Cork city (+1.75%) and Waterford (+1.61%), while the market in Galway remained static in Q1, with no new developments expected in the Connacht capital until 2017.

At the Dungarvan Enterprise Centre Gets Social for National Enterprise Week were from left David Prendergast, Mags O'Connor, Dungarvan Enterprise Centre; Gerry O'Carroll, Gerry O'Carroll Photography, and Justin Kearns, Tucr. [Sean Byrne//Deise Media]

Hearing Awareness Week 2016 Free health screening event in Waterford’s Dooley’s Hotel on 6th April ON Wednesday, 6th April, 2016, Hidden Hearing are hosting a free Health Screening event in Dooley’s Hotel, Merchant’s Quay, Water-ford, in association with Active Retirement Ireland.The event is free for everyone to attend and is on from 9–5 p.m. Attendees to this year’s health screening event will avail of free blood pressure checks by the Irish Heart Foundation, free diabetes checks by Diabetes Ireland and free ear wax removal and on site hearing screenings by Hidden Hearing. Everyone who registers and attends this free health screening event in Waterford will be entered into a competition to win a luxury weekend away for two. 2016 marks the 9th annual Hearing Awareness Week, which was founded by Hidden Hearing to ask people to put hearing on their health agenda. This high profile national awareness campaign is run by Hidden Hearing who are proudly supporting Active Retirement Ireland to highlight the issue of hearing loss and health screenings. Dolores Madden, Audiologist & Marketing Director for Hidden Hearing Ireland said: “Events like these are important for everyone as it can completely change your quality of life. From either getting your blood pressure checked to getting a free hearing test, our aim is to

Broadcaster Joe Duffy at last year's free Hearing Awareness Event in the Gresham Hotel. help people better their health. This year we are proudly supporting Active Retirement Ireland and we hope that everyone who comes enjoys the day.” Hidden Hearing conducted a survey, carried out for Hearing Awareness Week, which takes place Nationally starting the week of the 4th April. Events are scheduled to take place nationally in the Gresham Hotel, Dublin, on the 4th April; Metropole Hotel, Cork, on Tuesday the 5th; Radisson BLU, Galway, on Tuesday 5th; Dooley’s Hotel in Waterford on Wednesday 6th and The Sheraton Hotel in Athlone on the 7th April, 2016. The survey found that, on a ranking scale of importance and listing their top health priorities, blood

pressure was 1st with 35%, sight ranked 2nd with 19% and 3rd was hearing with 16%. The results from this survey also highlighted a worrying trend that 33% suffer from ringing in their ears which could be tinnitus and 7% ignore it and nearly 10% are not sure. Tinnitus isn’t a condition itself but a symptom of an underlying condition such as age related hearing loss.The ear is one of the bodies most delicate and detailed sensory organs and such a complex system can be damaged by illnesses, injury and wear and tear. Just as we get our eyes and blood pressure checked regularly, taking good care of our hearing is equally important. Other results from the survey have shown that 93% find that everyone as soon

as they are over the age of 55 should get their hearing checked while only 6% said it wasn’t necessary. Another result showed that if people were looking to get their hearing tested, 49% would first go to a Hidden Hearing Clinic, while 26% said they would go to their GP and 18% would go to a local hearing Care professional. The free health screening event to celebrate Hearing Awareness Week 2016 in Dooley’s Hotel on the 6th April is a unique opportunity to find out if you are suffering from hearing loss or any other ailments and do something positive about it. Register today by calling Freephone 1800 370 000 or online at hiddenhearing.ie

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Wreaths laid at Waterford monuments on behalf of Sinn Féin to commemorate those who lost their lives for Ireland SPEAKING after laying a wreath at the Cappoquin monument to the Déise Brigade IRA, chair of the local Sinn Féin Cumann, Louise Brierley, reflected on the many Centenary Commemorations for the 1916 Easter Rising. “There have been many commemorative events organised this year and much focus on the heroes, both men and women, of the 1916 Easter Rising, and rightly so. It’s also worth remembering that commemorations paying tribute to those who fought for Irish Independence during the Easter Rising and afterwards have taken place annually at the many monuments in West Waterford year after year by dedicated

local groups, including Sinn Féin, to celebrate the memory of those who sacrificed their lives during that time. ‘‘As chair of West Waterford Cumann, I consider it an honour to lay a wreath on behalf of Sinn Féin to the memory of those in the West Waterford Brigade who fought and sacrificed their lives for the freedom of Ireland. I would also like to commend the huge commitment and work which has gone into the erection and maintenance of the monument here in Cappoquin. Organised by local people and community groups over the years and with support from the County Council, it is a true mark of respect to the memory of

those who fought for Ireland’s freedom. “Recently I attended the commemoration at the Burgery in Dungarvan and also in Stradbally, where Councillor Siobhán Whelan on both occasions laid a wreath on behalf of Sinn Féin. The Burgery monument, the grave of Vol. John Cummins I.R.A. in Stradbally and also the Ballyvoile plaque to the memory of him all looked very well kept and cared for by local people and community groups year in, year out. “The many monuments and graves in West Waterford are a fitting tribute to those who made a strike for Ireland in 1916 and later in the War of

Independence. Some of the other monuments where wreaths are laid and commemorations take place include Ceann Helbhic, Ballinagoul, Kilgobinet and Piltown. In fact, a monument to the two West Waterford men from An Rinn, Johnny Graves and William Regan who both took part in the 1916 Easter Rising will be unveiled at Ceann Helbhic this April 17th at 3.00 p.m. I think it’s very positive that all will be welcome to this as, like most of the commemorative events in West Waterford, this event is non-party political and is being organised by Cumann Stair & Oidhreadchta na nDéise.”

Sinn Féin elects West Waterford man as County Chairperson THE Sinn Féin organisation in Waterford has elected local member Conor McGuinness to be its chairperson for the coming year at its AGM. The meeting was held on Thursday in Lawlors Hotel, Dungarvan, and was attended by newly elected TD David Cullinane and delegates from branches across the county. Conor McGuinness lives in An Rinn and is a political advisor to MEP Liadh Ní Riada. Speaking after the meeting, Conor McGuinness said: "I'm delighted to have been nominated and elected as chairperson of Comhairle Ceantar Phort Láirge. Sinn Féin in Waterford is going from strength to strength, and it is clear that a century after the 1916 rising, people are looking for a political alternative that embodies the republican politics contained in the Proclamation. “We have already seen the election of David Cullinane as the first Sinn Féin TD since Caitlín Brugha in 1927. Our party continues to grow as more and more people see that the establishment parties of Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil have failed to deliver on the vision of a republic where all are cherished equally. "Over the coming 12

months, as we reflect on the events of 1916 and face into political uncertainty, Sinn Féin will continue to stand up for fairness, equality and unity. “In Waterford, and across Ireland, our activists and elected representatives will continue to campaign for access to quality healthcare, for the right to a home, for a fair economic recovery, for inclusivity and for equal rights. In his first few weeks in the Dáil, David Cullinane has already been hard at work on housing, on overcrowding and the lack of services at University Hospital Waterford, and on securing their pensions for the 100 former Waterford Crystal workers left in limbo. "As our membership

Local man Conor McGuinness elected as chairperson of Sinn Féin Comhairle Ceantar Phort Láirge.

continues to grow, I want to make an appeal to anyone who has been moved by the recent commemorative events, and by the contrast between the vision of 1916 and the reality of Ireland today. “If you feel that the ideals of Easter Week should be brought about, please join Sinn Féin. Join us in building a fair, equal and united Ireland. Find West Waterford Sinn Féin on Facebook, or call local Councillor Siobhán Whelan on 0872225648. "David Cullinane will be hosting a post-election celebration in Dillon's Bar, Dungarvan on Friday, 8th April, at 8:30 p.m. Entertainment will be provided by Desie Norris and all are welcome to attend."

Sinn Féin TD David Cullinane with delegates from City and County Cumainn at Waterford Sinn Fein's AGM last Thursday night in Dungarvan.

Local Cumann members lay wreath on behalf of Sinn Féin at Cappoquin Monument in memory of the West Waterford IRA Brigade. Pictured (l. to r.): Lorna Cullen, Pat Cullen and Louise Brierley.

Local Monumental firm involved in Castlelyons Commemoration DAVID Kiely Monumental Works of Kiladangan are very much to the fore in the Kent Centenary Commemoration which takes place in Castlelyons on May 15th, 2016. They are presently working on the five tonne monument of black granite, plotting the various designs, Celtic Cross, Pioneer Pin, Rosary Beads, Cross Rifles, Laurel Wreath, Celtic Motifs and large Harp and Shamrock. Various panels on the monument will tell the story of the Kent family. A family that defended their home at Bawnard House, Coole, Castlelyons on 2nd May, 1916, against a force of R.I.C. and military who came to arrest them. During the fight David Kent was wounded and recovered; Richard Kent was shot and died later of his wounds; William Kent was court-martialled but acquitted while Thomas

Kent was court-martialled at Cork Prison, sentenced to death and was shot on 9th May, 1916. Towards the end of 2015, Thomas’ Remains were exhumed and reinterred in his native Castlelyons following a State Funeral. Another feature of the memorial David Kiely relates – we have secured ceramic reproductions from the Continent of the Irish Proclamation and indeed the photograph of the Kent brothers on their way under British armed escort to Fermoy military barracks, both will be fitted permanently to the actual monument. Already the Castlelyons 1916 Commemoration Committee have visited the Kiely Monumental Yard in Kiladangan and have been glowing in their praises of David and staff on their efforts. Foundations are in place and non-slip granite tiles,

bullnosed at front have been fitted by the Dungarvan firm and within the next two weeks or so the Kent Memorial, the centre piece of Centenary Celebrations in the Brideside town, will be brought to Castlelyons for fitting. These celebrations will feature on television and will be written upon in the National Media. We are delighted to be associated with such a prestigious memorial in this historic year, David concludes, who also acknowledges the outstanding support of the 1916 Committee in Castlelyons, his own wife Margaret who supplied all the different fonts, typed the various panels both in Irish and English, while Steve Mahony and James Tobin are responsible for plotting and blasting the entire memorial featuring quotations in Latin, Irish, English.

STRADBALLY EASTER COMMEMORATION

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

The Irish Proclamation 1916 was read by Helena Hogan. Its conclusion was greeted by a massive cheer. [Richard Cutbill]

The flags flutter in the wind as the contributors assemble around John Cummins’ grave awaiting the prayers and tributes to begin. The flag bearers are (in no particular order): P. J. Carey (Tricolour); Michael Kett (West Waterford Brigade); Eugene Whelan (Munster flag); Paul Whelan (Leinster flag); John Whelan (Connaught flag); Nigel Whelan (Ulster flag); Danny Kett (Erin go Bragh flag); Eddie Glavin (Starry Plough); Anthony Hogan (Sunburst flag); Mike Hogan (Waterford GAA); Maurice Lennon (Stradbally GAA). [Richard Cutbill]

Dr. Pat McCarthy, a former Waterford man, gave a very informative narration of times of the Rising and Civil War. [Richard Cutbill]

The Youghal Cork Hill Pipe Band formed part of the parade through Stradbally Village marching to the Parish Church (The Holy Cross) for the John Cummins’ Memorial Service held in the Church Cemetery. [Richard Cutbill]

The flags are lowered as Bugler Pat Ormond (not in the picture) played 'The Last Post' to conclude this very moving tribute to a young soldier. [Richard Cutbill]

Prayers are offered up by Father Gerry Condon, P.P., for the soul of Volunteer John Cummins. On his left is the Stradbally GAA Chairman Tom Cunningham who gave an excellent narration on the life and tragic death of Volunteer John Cummins at the hands of the British Army. [Richard Cutbill]

Walking in the sunshine, part of the large crowd of several hundred that followed the parade from the Village Green to Holy Cross Church at the top of the hill for John Cummins’ Memorial. [Richard Cutbill]

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

STRADBALLY EASTER COMMEMORATION

West Waterford Brigade IRA Memorial Association Committee Stradbally Branch Chairman Tom Cunningham would wish to thank the following for making this a magnificent tribute to Volunteer John Cummins – Barron Hall Stradbally Committee, the caterers, Father Gerry Condon, P.P.; all the speakers at the graveside, the Youghal Cork Hill Pipe Band, the flag bearers and riflemen and women and everyone who assisted in its preparation on the day, Richard Cutbill Photography and most importantly the general public who turned out in their hundreds.

Tribute wreaths are laid on the grave of Volunteer John Cummins by the following – Tone Hogan (Family Wreath); Pete Gough (West Waterford Brigade Memorial Ass.); Pat Kett (WWBMA local committee Stradbally); John Quinlan (2nd Bat.); Brendan Mansfield (Irish Army); Lennon Hogan (Fianna Fail); Councillor Siobhan Whelan (Sinn Fein). [Richard Cutbill]

Cumann Staire Agus Oidhreachta Ghaeltachta Na nDeise (l. to r.): Conor McGuinness, David Condon, Mike Coffey, Mossey Coffey, Damien O’Donohue, Sean Curran, Liam Ronan, Seamus Keirsey, Frank Cummins. [Richard Cutbill]

P. J. Carey carrying the Tricolour leading the Parade through Stradbally Village to the Parish Church (The Holy Cross) Cemetery at the brow of the hill above the village. [Richard Cutbill]

Sinn Fein TD Donnchadh O Laoghaire of Cork who gave a narration on the era, in particular about the heroes like John Cummins. [Richard Cutbill]

Cumann Staire Agus Oidhreachta Ghaeltachta Na nDeise stand at ease beside John Cummins’ grave, heads bowed in respect for their fallen comrade Volunteer John Cummins. [Richard Cutbill]

John Cummins Memorial reception – Large crowd enjoying tea, sandwiches and refleshments in Barron Hall, Stradbally Village, with many more outside in the rear garden area. [Richard Cutbill]

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.

“Oh for what died the sons of Roisín’’ Dear Editor This Easter, people across Ireland came together and proudly commemorated 100 years since Pádraig Pearse and his comrades led the Rising against British imperial rule. I attended, along with close to another 500 people the annual West Waterford IRA Brigade Memorial Association Commemoration which this year was held in Stradbally. As the Last Post sounded against the gale of the coming rain shower, I again wondered what the leaders of 1916 and those who fought and liberated our Country would think of it today? The rebels were not universally welcomed in 1916.They saw that, in the struggle for justice, you cannot wait till everyone is ready, and that to endure defeat is part of an eventual victory. Time proved them right and confirmed their place in history, It is a great tribute to the values of the freedom movement that I have never met an Irish person to whom this matters.This is partly because Ireland is a nation of emigrants, its sons and daughters spread across the globe, from Canada to New Zealand and everywhere in between, and so the Irish sense of national family is broader. But it is also because the values that drove the Rising transcend both nationality and time. Ireland’s Rising resonated with many countries across the globe – many too had been denied their land and culture, had to win their freedom; indeed, it can be said that Ireland’s freedom movement was the first to show that a people colonised by Britain could defeat the colonisers. What struck me most from all the conversations that people had over Easter was that they were not inspired by a narrow nationalism, but a love of justice and equality with people moved by a 100-year-old call for “equal rights and equal opportunities of all, cherishing all children equally”. For the Rising to inspire beyond one country is not new. Indeed, we know from history that even the British officer who chaired Pearse’s court-martial could see the justness of cause, commenting: “I have just done one of the hardest tasks I have ever had to do. I have had to condemn to death one of the finest characters I have ever come across. There must be something very wrong in the state of things that makes a man like that a rebel.” Watching the wreath laying ceremony in the stone breakers yard in Kilmainham on Easter Sunday was indeed emotional. However, it was noted that while the leaders of 1916 who were executed at that spot were mentioned and rightly so, no mention was made of the other 80plus Republicans executed in the same jail by Free State forces during the Civil War....perhaps we haven’t moved on that much yet as a country... The idealist poet Pearse, the workers’ leader James Connolly, and the pioneering feminist Constance Markievicz did not struggle only to replace English rulers with Irish ones but to replace landgrabbing by the rich with fair land redistribution to the poor, cramped slums with room to move, painful hunger with full stomachs, squalor with dignity, exploitation with decent work, corporate impunity with workers’ rights, inequality with equality, hopelessness with hope, shame with self-worth. They saw that the struggles for political democracy, economic justice, and cultural self-confidence were interconnected and inseparable. Across the world, those lessons could not be more necessary today. The centenary should be an opportunity to think about how to do that, but that opportunity is being missed. It is not even clear what people are ‘celebrating’. Are they celebrating 1916 as the foundation of the current Irish state? If so, this requires a remarkable leap of logic, since our attenuated republic – one that cannot even guarantee basic social needs such as housing and healthcare, let alone form a Government – would almost certainly have been disowned by many of the visionaries of 1916. Indeed, this state was not supposed to be formally declared a republic. De Valera had refused to do this when introducing the current constitution in 1937, precisely because he understood that the 26-county state fell far short of the republic proclaimed in 1916, and that to call the 26county state ‘the Republic’ would be to normalise partition, drawing a line under the question of the North.

NEWS The circumstances in which the State formally did become a Republic were farcical, with Fine Gael Taoiseach John A Costello (not known for his ‘republican’ credentials) making the surprise announcement at a press conference in Canada in 1948, apparently on a whim. Formally declaring the 26-county state a Republic was a slap in the face to the tradition of Irish republicanism, and something even De Valera had painstakingly avoided – but people have found it easier not to think about this. It was also extremely disappointing that President Higgins decided not to attend a function organised by Belfast City Council as a number of Unionist politicians had objected to same, Belfast City Councils overall programme for the ‘decade of remembrance’ was agreed by full council and has cross-party support; and that position has not changed. I have no doubt a lot of hard work has gone into creating an inclusive programme of events which is respectful of all viewpoints and which focuses on the key events of our shared history, and those which have impacted on that city, as such for the President to decide not to attend is questionable. And then we get to the ‘ Necrology wall’ in Glasnevin in Dublin, I feel perhaps a more apt title would be the ‘hat tipping wall’. It has been claimed that this wall was constructed with all-party agreement.This is not the case Sinn Féin and many relatives of those who fought in 1916 did not agree to this proposal I believe it is totally inappropriate for a memorial wall to list indiscriminately together Irish freedom fighters and members of the British crown forces. Everyone should have the right to remember and honour their dead, whether they were Irish republicans, members of British crown forces or civilians. That is catered for already within Glasnevin Cemetery with its many and diverse memorials and graves, as well as British war monuments at Island Bridge. Now this wall is set to be continued, so the wall in the future years will list members of the Black & Tans, Auxiliaries and RIC alongside IRA Volunteers who rid them from this land, I have to ask why are we doing this? In America are members of the North Vietnamese Army listed alongside American Dead from Vietnam? In the final hours of the Easter Rising of 1916, from the evening of Friday the 28th of April to the morning of Saturday the 29th, soldiers of the British Army’s South Staffordshire Regiment, led by Lieutenant Colonel Henry Taylor, inflicted a terrible revenge for the would-be revolution on the civilian population of North King Street, a working-class district to the north-east of Dublin’s main thoroughfares. Despite their overwhelming numbers, firepower and the use of improvised armoured cars the British forces had been thwarted in the area by a handful of units attached to the Four Courts Garrison of the Irish Republican Army led by Commandant Edward Daly, advancing no further than 140 metres into the insurgents’ lines after three days of fighting. Seizing civilian hostages in the warren of narrow streets, tenement houses and small businesses that characterized that part of the capital, from 6 pm to 10 am the troops proceeded to murder at least seventeen men and boys, wounding several others, while stealing from both the corpses and their homes in scenes of general looting. Most of the killings took place in a small block of just nine buildings. Incredibly, the modern state of Ireland has now paid tribute to perpetrators of the North King Street Massacre, to the murderers of Irish men and boys, by adding their names to the newly erected Glasnevin 1916 Remembrance Wall, a monument inscribed with the names of all those who died during the Easter Rising. Alongside sixteen year old Christopher Hickey and twenty-one year old Peter J Lawless sits the names of the men who were their killers or the accomplices of their killers. Far from a Remembrance Wall it has become a Wall of Shame, a dishonouring of the dead. One such name from the so-called 1916 Remembrance Wall is that of Harry Dickinson, a member of the British Army’s infamous South Staffordshire Regiment, who died of wounds on the 12th of May 1916, probably received while fighting in the North King Street area, site of the massacre. Dickinson is buried in the Grangegorman Military Cemetery, a former UK graveyard near the Phoenix Park in Dublin, and his name is already inscribed on its Wall of Remembrance.With the support of the Royal British Legion and regarded by them as a “Fallen Hero”, Harry Dickinson will now receive greater recognition than the citizens of Ireland he and his fellow soldiers murdered. Meanwhile, many of those who died in North King Street were, until recently, buried in unmarked graves at Dean’s Grange cemetery. “Oh for what died the sons of Roisín.’’ BRENDAN MANSFIELD The Burgery, Abbeyside, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Council does U-turn on wearing robes during civic occasions By Paul Mooney WATERFORD Council has made a Uturn on its previous decision to get rid of Mayoral robes and decided to bring back the robes for the Mayor of Waterford City and County. Councillors voted at their monthly meeting held in September, 2015, to get rid of the mayoral robes at official functions. In a show of hands at that meeting, 13 Councillors were in favour of retaining the robes, but 15 Councillors voted against the robes. However, they’ve had six months to reconsider that decision. Speaking at the March meeting of the plenary meeting of the local authority, Chief Executive, Michael Walsh, said an anomaly exists where the Mayor of the Metropolitan District is robed at official functions, but the Mayor of Waterford City and County is not robed. Mr. Walsh said robes bring “significant value to the position” and robes “set a significantly high bar”. He said that having the Plenary body of the Council as a robed body “keeps us on a par with our peers” (such as other cities like Dublin, Cork Limerick and Galway). “If you think like a small town, you will become one very quickly,” said Mr. Walsh. He said the proposal was to have the main Council (City and County) a robed body when it so wishes. It was noted that the cost of providing robes would be in the region of around €1,000, which would be accommodated into the Mayor’s allowance and not be an additional cost to the Council. Cllr. John Hearne said his problem with the robes was cost, particularly when there was poverty in many estates around the city and county. However, he said if there was no cost involved, then he did not object to the robes and had no problem with other Councillors wearing the robes if they wish. “We should be inclusive and if people want to wear them, well and good, if they don’t, well and good. We’ll respect all divisions,” he said. Cllr. Sean Reinhardt said he wouldn’t like think he is preventing someone from wearing robes, who wishes to wear them. Cllr. James Tobin said there was a lot of Councillors who appeared to have had a change of heart in the last six months about wearing robes. He voiced his opposition to the Council being a robed body. Cllr. Joe Kelly said the case was put very

well by Mr. Walsh and agreed that robes “add a sense of occasion to the occasion”. “It is merely a recognition of the office being held and I respect any Councillor who decides for their own reasons not to wear a robe,” said Cllr. Kelly. Mayor John Cummins said he agreed “one hundred percent”. Cllr. Pat Fitzgerald said he was against the Council being a robed body. “In a Republic, robes have no place on Councils or any other elected bodies,” he said. Cllr. Michael J. O’Ryan also voiced his opposition. “While I will vote against the Council being a robed body, I wouldn’t like to stop anybody from wearing robes,” he said. “The robes are a legacy of the old Waterford City body. I’ve no problem with the members of the Metropolitan District body wearing robes.” Cllr. O’Ryan said the issue was already voted on previously in September, and it has come up again. He added that the Mayoral position would add a lot more credit to the Council if he wore the chain at Council meetings. Mayor Cummins said that suggestion would be brought to the CPG for consideration. Cllr. Declan Clune said he found it interesting to see some members of Fianna Fáíl talking about a ‘change of heart’ regarding the robes, “when a lot of their members on the Metropolitan District Council have no objection to wearing robes, so we see the double standards again of Fianna Fáil,” said Cllr. Clune. This caused disruption and angry responses from some Fianna Fáil members. Once the Mayor restored order, a roll-call vote was held on the proposal that the Plenary Council of Waterford City and County be a robed body for civic occasions. There were 20 Councillors in favour of the proposal and ten Councillors against. Councillors in favour: Liam Brazil; John Carey; Declan Clune; Joe Conway; John Cummins; Declan Doocey; Damien Geoghegan; Blaise Hannigan; John Hearne; Joe Kelly; Eddie Mulligan; Pat Nugent; John O’Leary; Cha O’Neill; Lola O’Sullivan; Seanie Power; John Pratt; Seán Reinhardt; Mary Roche; Adam Wyse. Councillors against the motion: Breda Brennan; Tom Cronin; Pat Fitzgerald; Jim Griffin; Jason Murphy; Seamus O’Donnell; Michael John O’Ryan; Eamon Quinlan; James Tobin; and Siobhán Whelan. Two Councillors were absent from the meeting: Mary Butler and Davy Daniels.

Traffic collisions during downpour of hailstones A HEAVY downpour of hailstones last Wednesday afternoon, 31st March, resulted in some minor traffic collisions in County Waterford. It is understood there was a minor collision which occurred on the N25 at Lemybrien between two vehicles following the downpour of hail.

On the other side of the N25 near Grange, it is understood a number of vehicles were also involved in a minor collision during the same afternoon. Emergency services attended both incidents and it is understood injures received by the people in the vehicles were non-life threatening.

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

The Newsreader THE WEEK THAT WAS IN IT . . .

Taoiseach, Acting or not Employers made to pay

taken issue with the use of the title ‘Caretaker’ and, according to a report in the Irish Independent this week, his officials have instructed all Departments to desist from using the term 'acting' when describing the work of ministers. The acting Taoiseach's aides told department chiefs on Friday that, under the Constitution, ministers remain in their respective roles until a new government is formed. But the decision to contact each department over the use of the term 'acting minister' caused some surprise. "You would have thought there would be more important things for them to worry about than that. It was somewhat bizarre," one Government source told the Irish Independent. A spokesman confirmed that the departments had been contacted last Friday in order to "clear up any confusion" about the use of the term 'acting minister' which applies even to those Ministers who lost their seats at the last election.” Considering the crisis from which we are told we have fully emerged, there is still a great deal of legislation to be dealt with and which is now on the long finger awaiting a new Government.

THE conditions under which Irish employees have to work are sometimes dire to put it mildly and there is no doubt that SOME employers have taken advantage of the high unemployment rats and the availability of labour to apply very bad working conditions to their staff in a bid to maximise their profits. Sometimes they are brought to account, but with the continuing problem of the unavailability of jobs makes those with a job, however bad the conditions, unwilling to make waves. However, occasionally there is someone who will speak out and on this occasion it is a Portuguese man who was brought to Ireland to work on a road project. He has spoken out in the wake of a Court case which was determined in his favour. According to a report in the Irish Times recently, the man spoke of the “prison” he and his colleagues were forced to live in for nearly two years. Felipe Figueiredo (32) was one of 27 foreign workers who successfully sued the three Portuguese companies which hired them to work on the N7 Nenagh to Limerick dual carriageway. In his judgment, High Court judge Mr. Justice David Keane said Mr Figueiredo and his compatriots were entitled to recover damages thought to be about €1.5 million, after their employer, trading under the name RAC Éire

Painting The Modern Garden WIN N! @ SGC Dungarvan

Painting The Modern Garden: Monet to Matisse Tuesday, 12th April, at 7.30 p.m. Monet was an avid horticulturist and arguably the most important painter of gardens in the history of art but he was not alone. Artists like Van Gogh, Bonnard, Pissarro and Matisse all saw the garden as a powerful subject for their art. These great artists, along with many other famous names, feature in an innovative exhibition from The Cleveland Museum of Art and The Royal Academy, London. From the exhibition walls to the beauty of artist gardens like Monet’s Giverny, we take a magical journey to discover how artists used the modern garden to explore radical and wonderful new ideas. 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 Painting The Modern Garden Competition, Dungarvan Observer, Shandon, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford, on or before 12 noon on Friday, 8th April. Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

✄ Question: Painting The Modern Garden is screened at SGC on what date?

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

For competitive advertising rates contact us: Tel: 058-42042 / 41205 email: adverts@dungarvanobserver.ie

partnership, deducted monthly amounts of €520 for their “deplorable, even dangerous” on-site accommodation. Speaking to The Irish Times, Mr. Figueiredo recounted how he and his colleagues slept in small rooms with up to three others, had cold showers and were denied the opportunity to leave the “freezing” compound during their time off. “They offered me a job there, they told me ‘we’re going to pay you much better than in Portugal’ so I accepted. On the day of travel to Ireland they gave me a contract and I signed it in the airport seat before I got on the plane,” he said. Despite being told that food, laundry, transport and accommodation would be “taken care of ”, they soon realised that large deductions were being taken to pay for such services. Apart from a two-week period during which the site was under inspection by what Mr. Figueiredo believed to be a Government workplace compliance agency, he said the Portuguese men were made work 12 and 13 hour days, including 7.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. on Saturdays. “We didn’t have the right to complain about anything. I remember one day I was sick and I went to the office asking for someone to bring me to the hospital because I felt really bad. They told me ‘today we can’t but tomorrow’,” he said.

Petrol prices creeping upwards again

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ALMOST six months after the General Election, Ireland is still without a Government capable of functioning in a full and energetic capacity, with three members of Ministerial or Junior Ministerial rank without seats in either house of the Oireachtas. This seems to be in contravention of Article 28 7 (2) of the Constitution which states that: “The other members of the Government must be members of Dáil Éireann or Seanad Éireann, but not more than two may be members of Seanad Éireann.” But, on the other hand, Article 28 11 (1) says: “If the Taoiseach at any time resigns from office the other members of the Government shall be deemed also to have resigned from office, but the Taoiseach and the other members of the Government shall continue to carry on their duties until their successors shall have been appointed. (2) The members of the Government in office at the date of a dissolution of Dáil Éireann shall continue to hold office until their successors shall have been appointed.” Which seems to cover that situation. But, the Taoiseach appears to have

RISING oil prices are beginning to have an impact on the price of petrol locally, as motorists see the cost of a litre of petrol increase for the first time in eight months. The price of oil appears to have ‘bottomed out’, and may be an indication that the ‘good times are over’ for motorists as they see the cost of petrol creep upwards again. AA Ireland said the rebound will be felt in the forecourts, but motorists are not likely to see a huge jump in the cost of fuel. Currently, the average price of a litre of petrol is retailing for around 123.9 for unleaded and 109.9 for diesel (as of 5th April). The decreasing oil prices internationally led to motorists paying an average of €48 less per month in petrol than they did two years ago. At its height, the average cost of a litre of petrol in Ireland reached the ridiculous high of 170.1 per litre (160.1 for diesel) in September, 2013, according to AA Ireland’s historical fuel prices. While the price of petrol fluctuated after that, it generally dropped, reaching a low of 119.9 per litre of petrol earlier this year at local forecourts. In recent weeks, the aver-

age cost of petrol increased to 121.1 (106.3 for diesel). Despite the falling oil prices (Oil prices fell as low as $27 dollars per barrel on world markets around midJanuary before recovering to a current level of about $40), Ireland’s petrol prices remain among the highest in the world. Irish Motorists did not benefit as much from petrol price reductions as motorists in other countries, because of the high rate of excise duty on fuel in Ireland. According to AA Ireland the price of a litre of petrol, before taxes are added, is just over 37c a litre! The government slaps on an excise tax (including carbon tax) totalling just over 58c, while 2c is added as a tax for the National Oil Reserves Agency, to ensure that Ireland meets its EU obligations of keeping a 90 day stock of oil in the event of a shortage. VAT at 23 percent is also added to the price of petrol, which is just over 22c. A total of just over 83c in taxes is added to the cost of fuel, while the wholesaler will add an estimated 8c per litre and the retailer will add an estimated 4c per litre. For the latest average cost of petrol prices and other advice on motoring, check out www.theaa.ie.

“I said I might die tomorrow, and they answered, ‘if you die we’ll bring you directly to Portugal, don’t worry about that’.” Although they were initially allowed go to nearby Nenagh to socialise and shop for a couple of hours on Saturdays, Mr Figueiredo said the practice was discontinued after his employers found out some of his co-workers had driven the site’s minibus to Galway for a talk on workers’ rights in early 2008. When he left the site in 2009 Mr. Figueiredo returned to Portugal with little money, but relishing the freedom. “I lived in a prison. I still love the country, I still love the weather and the partying there, but I lived in a prison.” He is happy that a large sum will be awarded to the complainants – who represent just a fraction of the 180 people who worked on the site – but said true justice would only be served by making his former bosses live in the same degrading conditions for a period. RAC Éire declined to comment. While much of that went on in the Celtic Tiger years, there is little doubt that some employers are still taking advantage. How much of this is capable of being detected by Government agencies only they know, but many workers today know equally well that they are being taken advantage of and official Ireland does not seem to care.

St. Mary’s Parish Church, Dungarvan 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: 086 233 4282 St. Vincent de Paul Helpline No.: 0877747870.

W h at i s m e a n t b y N o m i n at i n g P r o p e r t y at Dungar van Credit Union? • It’s the process by which a member nominates a person(s) to receive some or all of their credit union property upon death. Any clearly identified person can be a nominee – it does not necessarily have to be next of kin or a member of the credit union. • Where only one person is nominated, that person will be the sole beneficiary of your credit union property subject to the maximum permitted by law (currently €23,000) with the balance, if any, reverting to your estate. • Nominations can cover savings and insurances with the exception of Death Benefit Insurance if applicable. • Not possible to complete a nomination on a joint account • The nomination will supersede your will and is not revocable or variable by your will or any codicil to it. • Your marriage after completing a nomination automatically revokes that nomination – you should complete a new nomination at that time. • Completion of a new nomination revokes all previous nominations. • Please check out our website www.dungarvancu.ie for information on all Q & As.

Check out our Facebook Page and our Website www.dungarvancu.ie DUNGARVAN CREDIT UNION, MAIN STREET, DUNGARVAN, CO. WATERFORD Email: info@dungarvancu.ie Tel. 058-44088/44094

5 o A th b 2 to th

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IN MEMORIAM

In Memoriam

CURRAN (11th anniversary) – In loving memory of Jack Curran, late of Kilrush, Dungarvan, who died on 3rd April, 2005. R.I.P.

HURTON (2nd anniversary) – In loving memory of Ted Hurton, late of 13 St. Bridget’s Terrace, Leamybrien, Co. Waterford, who died on 9th April, 2014. R.I.P.

Thank you Jack for the time we shared, For the love you gave and the way you cared, Look after him Lord as he takes his rest, For he was a husband and father and one of the best.

–Sadly missed by his loving wife Gobnait and family Anne-Marie, Siobhán, Maeve and Ciaran. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Mary’s Parish Church on Friday, 15th April, at 9.30 a.m. HANRAHAN (11th anniversary) – In loving memory of my mother Catherine Hanrahan, late of Villierstown, who died on 27th March, 2005. St. Martin pray for her. As each day dawns, I think of you, As each night falls, I pray for you. And in between, No matter where, In my heart, You are always there.

–Sadly missed by your loving daughter Renee and family. HANRAHAN (11th anniversary) – In loving memory of my dear aunt Kattie (nee Murphy), late of Villierstown and Romford, who died on 29th March, 2005. R.I.P. Mass offered. No matter how life changes, No matter what we do, A special place within our hearts, Is always kept for you.

–Sadly missed by your loving niece Maureen; Terry, Eamonn and Margaret.

O C

C Bridge

DUNGARVAN BRIDGE CLUB (Easter Party: 24/3/2016) – 1st Tom Prendergast & Ann Heffernan; 2nd Mary Mitchell & Delia Smith; 3rd Claire Meaney & Kay Barry; 4th Michael Kirwan & Catherine Tuohy. (31/3/2016): 1st Tom Prendergast & John Mansfield; 2nd Kay Kirwan & Moira Ormond; 3rd Claire Meaney & Joan Mansfield; 4th Maureen Power & Des O’Toole. DÉISE BRIDGE CLUB (4/4/2016) – 1st Joan Mansfield & Paddy Lannen; 2nd Brigid Burke & Michael Kirwan; 3rd Moira Ormond & Sadie Uí Mhiacháin.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

HURTON (2nd anniversary) – In loving memory of Ted Hurton, late of 13 St. Bridget’s Terrace, Leamybrien, Co. Waterford, who died on 9th April, 2014. R.I.P. If tears could build a stairway, And thoughts a memory lane, I’d walk right up to Heaven, And bring you home again. No farewell words were spoken, No time to say goodbye, You were gone before I knew it, And only God knows why. My heart’s still active in sadness, And secret tears still flow, What it meant to lose you, No one can ever know. But now I know you want us, To mourn for you no more, To remember all the happy times, Life still has much in store. Since you’ll never be forgotten, I pledge to you today, A hallowed place within my heart, Is where you’ll always stay.

–Love always, your loving wife Teresa. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in St. Brigid’s Church, Kilrossanty, on Friday, 8th April, at 8.00 p.m. HURTON (2nd anniversary) – In loving memory of Ted Hurton, late of 13 St. Bridget’s Terrace, Leamybrien, Co. Waterford, who died on 9th April, 2014. R.I.P. We little knew that morning, That God was going to call your name, In life we loved you dearly, In death we do the same. It broke our hearts to lose you, You did not go alone, For part of us went with you, The day God called you home. You left us peaceful memories, Your love is still our guide, And though we cannot see you, You are always at our side. Our family chain is broken, And nothing seems the same, But as God calls us one by one, The chain will link again.

–Love and miss you always Dad, your daughter Breda and sons William and Seán.

Observer Competition Winner Calamity Jane @ SGC EMILY McCARTHY, Ballyhane, Cappoquin, Co. Waterford. Winner can collect prize at SGC Dungarvan.

GRANDAD, I MISS YOU Everyone leaves memories, Once they’ve passed away, But those of you are special, And cherished more each day. Grandad, I remember, All the good times that we had, You helped me and you cheered me up, Whenever I was sad. I often think of times we shared, When I was very small, And your love and warm affection, Are so precious to recall. I wish you were still here today, But I know that can’t be so, Grandad, I loved you dearly, I just wanted to let you know.

–Miss you loads Grandad, hugs and kisses, from Davin, Savanna and baby Edee, XXX. HURTON (2nd anniversary) – In loving memory of Ted Hurton, late of 13 St. Bridget’s Terrace, Leamybrien, Co. Waterford, who died on 9th April, 2014. R.I.P. We think of you in silence, We often speak your name, But all we have are memories, And your picture in a frame. Your resting place we visit, And put flowers there with care, But no one knows the heartache, As we turn and leave you there.

–Always remembered by P.J. and Peggy; John and Mary; Francis and Helen; Máireád and families. HURTON (2nd anniversary) – In loving memory of Ted Hurton, late of 13 St. Bridget’s Terrace, Leamybrien, Co. Waterford, who died on 9th April, 2014. R.I.P. So much has changed since you’ve gone, Through ups and downs our lives move on, But as time rolls by one thing remains true, We’ll always have memories of you.

–Always remembered by Anita.

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.

McGRATH (7th anniversary) – In loving memory of James (Jim) McGrath, late of Ballyheeney, Clashmore, who died on 5th April, 2009. R.I.P. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, 9th April, at St. Bartholomew’s Church, Piltown, at 6.30 p.m. You always had a smile to share, Time to give and time to care, Someone to talk to, kind and true, One in a million, that was you. Thank you for the years we shared, The love you gave, the way you cared, Our wish is just a simple prayer, God bless and keep you in his care. Those we love don’t go away, They walk beside us day by day.

–Remembered today and always by his loving family at home and abroad. MORRISSEY – In loving memory of Tony and Ellen Morrissey, late of Kilminion, Stradbally, whose Anniversaries occur on 10th and 11th April, 2016. R.I.P.

MURPHY (1st anniversary) – In loving memory of Mary Murphy, late of 10 St. Garvan’s Terrace, Dungarvan, and Abbeyside Railway Lodge, who died on 29th March, 2015. R.I.P.

O’DWYER (25th anniversary) – In loving memory of my dear father Paddy O’Dwyer, late of Thomas’ Terrace, Dungarvan, whose 25th Anniversary occurs about this time.

MISS ME BUT LET ME GO When I come to the end of the road, And the sun is set for me, I want no rites in a gloom filled room, Why cry for a soul set free? Miss me a little – but not too long, And not with your head bowed low, Remember the love that we once shared, Miss me – and let me go. For this is a journey we all must take, And each must do it alone, It’s all a part of the Master’s plan, A step on the road to home. When you are lonely and sick of heart, Go to the friends we know, Bury your sorrows in doing good deeds, Miss me – but let me go.

Dad, our thoughts are ever with you, Though you have passed away, And those who loved you dearly, Are thinking of you today. Every day in some small way, Memories of you come our way, Though absent, you are always near, Still missed, loved and always dear. Your presence we miss, Your memory we treasure, Loving you always, Forgetting you never. Will those who think of him today, A little prayer to Jesus say.

–Sadly missed by your loving son Paddy and family; David and Karen; Áine, Joe, Dylan and Darragh.

–Always remembered by their families at home and abroad.

C Bridge

ABBEY BRIDGE CLUB (29/3/2016) – 1st Joan Mansfield & Ann M. Fitzgerald; 2nd Ann Fitzgerald & Margaret Browne; 3rd Andrew McGrath & Theresa Ryan; 4th Kay Shanley & Lorraine Vart; 5th Mary Dee & Ann Moran. HARBOUR BRIDGE CLUB (31/3/2016) – 1st Angela Freyne & Sheila Towey; 2nd Cait Christopher & Mary Ashe; 3rd Ann M. Fitzgerald & Colette Power; 4th Pat Stack & Christine O'Keeffe; 5th Mary Navin & Margaret Foley. KILMACTHOMAS BRIDGE CLUB (30/3/2016) – 1st Anne Curran & Louis Walshe; 2nd Evan Walshe & Mary Prendergast; 3rd Margaret Flynn & Claire Cummins; 4th David Kelly & Shane Prendergast; 5th Maeve Coghlan & Beth Spollen.

NUGENT (6th anniversary) – In loving memory of Jim Nugent, late of ‘Glenview,’ Churchquarter, Modeligo, Co. Waterford, whose 6th Anniversary occurs on 10th April. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Modeligo Church on Sunday, 17th April, at 10.00 a.m. Just a prayer from the family who loved you, Just a memory fond and true, In our hearts you will live forever, Because we thought the world of you. Lonely is the home without you, Life to us is not the same, And the world would be like Heaven, If we could have you back again.

–Sadly missed by your loving wife Vera; son Frank; daughters Yvonne and Geraldine; grandson T. J. and extended family.

Beautiful memories are wonderful things, They last till the longest day, They never wear out or get lost, And can never be given away. To some you may be forgotten, To others a part of the past, But to us who loved and lost you, Your memory will always last.

–Lovingly remembered by your wife Marian; sons, daughters-in-law and grandchildren.

–Always remembered by his loving daughter Margaret; son-in-law Ger; grandchildren Jason, Kevin, Sophie and Dervla. Masses offered.

Will those who think of them today, A little prayer to Jesus say.

O C

POWER (10th anniversary) – In loving memory of Pat Power, late of 8 Upper College Road, Ardmore, whose 10th Anniversary occurs on 11th April. R.I.P.

O’GORMAN – In celebration of the life of Paddy O’Gorman, late of Glasha, Ballymacarbry. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Fourmilewater Church on Saturday, 9th April, at 6.30 p.m. And think of him as living, In the hearts of those he touched, For nothing loved is ever lost, And he was loved so much.

–Sadly missed by Olive and all his family.

O C

Bridge

CUNNIGAR BRIDGE CLUB (30/3/2016) – 1st Kay Kirwan & Therese Ryan; 2nd Patricia Doyle & Mary Mitchell; 3rd Maureen Morrissey & Ann McGrath; 4th Cait Christopher & Guest; 5th Una O’Dwyer & Angela Freyne.

RADLEY (10th anniversary) – In loving memory of our mother Margaret Radley (nee Calnan), late of ‘Glandore House,’ 23 Church Street, Dungarvan, and Glandore, Co. Cork, who departed this life on 7th April, 2006. If my parting has left a void, Then fill it with remembered joy, A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss, Ah, yes these things I too will miss. Be not burdened with times of sorrow, I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow, My life’s been full, I savoured much, Good friends, good times, a loved one’s touch, Perhaps my time seems all too brief, Don’t lengthen it now with undue grief.

–Always remembered and loved by your daughters Angela and Denise; sonsin-law Dermot and Dominic; and grandchildren Aisling Maggie, Aoife Kate and Ciara Denise, XXXX. Anniversary Mass for Margaret and Denis (Dinny) will be celebrated on Sunday, 12th June, at 11.00 a.m., in the Friary Church, Dungarvan.

BEREAVEMENT 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

Support and help available Service – Free & Confidential Tel. 058-46100 www.westwaterfordbereavement.org

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Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

In O Memoriam O

Birthday Remembrance

For Quick Results Use the Small Adverts. Section

STACK (4th anniversary) – In loving memory of Ann, late of Fr. Twomey’s Road, Dungarvan, whose Anniversary occurs on 11th April. Mass offered. We thought of you today, But that is nothing new, We thought of you yesterday, And will tomorrow too. We think of you in silence, And make no outward show, For what it meant to lose you, Only those who love you know. Remembering you is easy, We do it every day, It’s the heartache of losing you, That will never go away.

–Always loved and remembered by Eamonn, Stephen and Nicola.

KIRWAN – Birthday remembrance for Robert (Bobby) Kirwan, late of Kealfoun, Kilmacthomas, whose birthday is on 3rd April. Our hearts, though broken, still do share, That care, that kindness, which we know, Could only come from one like you, Your life is a lovely memory, Your absence a silent grief, But now you rest in God’s garden, Beside a rose called peace. Happy birthday Bobby.

–Always remembered, never forgotten, by your loving Mam and Dad; Alfie, Biddy Ann, Dean, Jonathan, Jamie, Jay and Fiona; Jennie and Emily; Sinead and Laurence; Tanya and Cameron; John and Mark; Michael, Aisling and Jayden; Julia, Owen and Ollie; Kate and Martin; Lenny and David. KIRWAN – Birthday remembrance for Robert (Robbie) Kirwan, late of Kealfoun, Kilmacthomas, whose birthday is on 3rd April.

TROY (14th anniversary) – In loving memory of Martin Troy, late of Curragh, Ardmore, who died on 10th April, 2002. R.I.P. Just a prayer from a family who loved you, Just a memory good and true, In our hearts you will live forever, Because we thought the world of you.

–Sadly missed by his sons, daughters and grandchildren.

On this your birthday, We ask God above to tell you, How very much we miss you, And give you all our love. Many things have happened, We wanted you to share, Many times we’ve spoken your name Robbie, And wished that you were here.

–Loved and always remembered by your loving sister Anne and Patrick and nieces Nardine, Aoibhe and Robyn. LYNCH – Birthday remembrance of a dear father, grandfather and great grandfather Patrick J. (Paddy) Lynch, late of “Tara,” Tournore, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford, whose birthday occurs on 12th April. R.I.P. Masses offered. Death is not extinguishing the light, But putting out the lamp, Because the dawn has come.

YOUNG (1st anniversary) – In loving memory of Maureen Young, late of 47 Murphy Place, Abbeyside, who died on 6th April, 2015. Happy memories keep forever, Of days when we were all together, Each of us in our own way, Have special thoughts of you today.

–Always remembered by her husband, daughters, grandchildren and great grandchildren.

–Always in our thoughts and prayers – your loving family.

The Samaritans Beau Street, Waterford Tel. (051) 872114. Freephone 116 123. Lonely – Suicidal – Despairing? Talk to us any time, any day in complete confidence Phone – write – visit

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.

Situations Vacant

LADY WANTED TO HELP WITH HOUSE – For a few hours per week. Tallow area. Box No. 5560. (8-4) EARN EXTRA CASH! – National Charity requires persons for part-time / fulltime door-to-door fund raising venture. Please phone Patrick on 087-1747883 for details. PART-TIME CLEANER REQUIRED – 15 to 20 hours per week (flexible). Mature person. Cappagh / Dungarvan area. Reply to Box No. 5561. CHILDMINDER / HOUSEKEEPER – To look after 3 children in their own home after school in Abbeyside 4 afternoons and 2 mornings before school a week. Must have own car. Apply to PO Box 5562 or email tournore@icloud.com (15-4)

Carpenters/Joiners Wanted Full and part-time positions available

SEEKING A QUALIFIED CARPENTER/JOINER TO JOIN OUR TEAM • Own Transport and Tools Essential • Safe pass and manual handling is a must • Must have experience and be competent in using woodwork machinery • Be motivated and able to work in a team and independently • Closing date for application is 15th April, 2016.

Please send CV to Box No. 5559

O C Planning Permission WATERFORD CITY AND COUNTY COUNCIL – Thomas and Mary Coughlan intend to apply for outline permission for two private dwelling houses, wastewater treatment systems, combined access road and associated site works at Glenribbeen, Lismore, 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. WATERFORD CITY AND COUNTY COUNCIL – I, Mrs. Patricia Flanagan, intend to apply for permission for retention of the first floor of an existing two storey domestic garage at Scart, Ballinacourty, Dungarvan, 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 with a payment of the prescribed fee (€20) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application. WATERFORD CITY AND COUNTY COUNCIL – Bryan Doocey intends to apply for permission for construction of a poultry house with an office and wash area, feed bins, concrete yard, wash tank and associated works at Ballyea East, Lismore, 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 at Menapia Building, The Mall, Waterford, during its public opening hours, i.e. 9.30 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. and 2.00 p.m. to 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays). A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of

the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application, and such submissions and observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission. WATERFORD CITY AND COUNTY COUNCIL – DJS Engineering & PM Services, Clogheen, Doneraile, Co. Cork, 086-6079090, wishes to apply for planning permission for construction of dwelling house, entrance, garage, septic tank, percolation area and all associated site works at Ballinaha, Tallow, Co. Waterford, on behalf of Patrick Hogan and Rebecca Gerphagnon. 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. WATERFORD CITY AND COUNTY COUNCIL – I, John Sullivan, wish to apply for planning permission from the above Authority for a slatted tank, cubicle shed and associated site works at CloneaPower, Carrick-on-Suir, 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 Section, 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.), and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee of €20 within the period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Small Van Wanted To deliver bread from Dungarvan to Waterford City for 8.30 a.m. 6 days per week Ring: Barron’s Bakery (058) 54045 Suitable for person travelling to Waterford daily

CONSTITUENCY OFFICE WORKER COUNTY WATERFORD A PART TIME CONSTITUENCY POSITION IS NOW AVAILABLE WITH DAVID CULLINANE, TD. The vacancy is part-time for 15 hours per week THE POSITION WILL BE BASED IN DUNGARVAN Please email: ross.carmody@sinnfein.ie for an application form and a job description and completed application forms should be returned, by email only, to ross.carmody@sinnfein.ie on or before Friday, April 15th, 2016.

ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES Waterford City and County Council wishes to engage the services of a competent registered Architect for 15 hours per week for a period of 1 year. The gross fee for this service is €530 per week plus V.A.T. Interested applicants to apply in writing together with CV to be submitted in a sealed envelope marked “ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES”, displayed clearly on the envelope to CUSTOMER SERVICES DESK, WATERFORD CITY & COUNTY COUNCIL, BAILEYS NEW STREET, WATERFORD” no later than 4pm on Friday 15th April. L. Power Director of Economic Development and Planning

CLASSIFIED

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

John Phelan Skip Hire

SERVICES AVAILABLE

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

Deadline for all adverts is 10.00 a.m. each Tuesday

Telephone: (058) 41205 / 42042 e-mail: adverts@dungarvanobserver.ie MUNSTER TRUCK, TRAILER AND BUS SERVICES – Tachograph Calibration and Installation • Speed Limiter Installation and Repair • DOE Preparation • Servicing • Sand Blasting • Spray Painting • Contact: Gerard on 058-68855 or 087-2884113 • www.truckrepairs.ie • info@truckrepairs.ie • Garryduff, Colligan, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford. (ind.)

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

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Yoga Suain

YOGA SUAIN IN THE PARK HOTEL – Tuesday Beginner & Pregnancy 7–8 p.m. Continuous Beginner & Intermediate 8–9 p.m. Thursday: Gentle Morning 10–11 a.m. Contact: Mary 087 6977426 / www.yoga(ind.) suain.com

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Tree Felling

HEALY TREE FELLING AND LANDSCAPING – Fully insured and certified. Specialising in tree felling, tree pruning and reducing, chipping and removal, landscaping and garden construction including grass and hedge cutting, lawn laying, gravel gardens, paving, decking and fencing Contact: Eamonn (085) 7784335. (22-4)

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Fergal Colbert Tree Care

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. (ind.)

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C Samaritans

W O R R I E D ? D I S T R E S S E D ? SUICIDAL? – Whatever you're going through, we're here to listen and help, 24 hours a day, every day. Call SAMARITANS in confidence Freephone 116 123, or e-mail us jo@samaritans.org (ind.)

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Gardening Services

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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Car Ports / Canopies

CAR PORTS / CANOPIES – We supply and fit High Quality, Maintenance Free Canopies. Ideal for Cars, Firewood, Toys, Dry Storage, etc. Free Quotes, e.g. Back Door Canopy 8x6. €900. Fitted. www.grangeironcraft.ie / (087) 2549996. (22-7)

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Computer Services

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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C Tarmacadam

TARMACADAM & TAR & CHIPPINGS – Drainage and Kerbing. Can deliver. Michael Fennell, Stradbally, (086) 8342233 / (051) 293943. (ind.)

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.) ATTENTION – LEAKING ROOFS SEALED INSTANTLY – €10.00 a square metre. Slating, Tiling, Re-roofing, Torch-on Felt a Speciality. Lead Valleys and Chimney Flashing Renewed. Emergency repairs carried out. Estimates free without obligation. All work fully guaranteed. Very keen prices assured. Also Old Slate Roofs Restored with Aquaseal. Contact: Ger O’Connor, Dungarvan Roof Sealers, anytime, on (089) 2094228 / email: oconnorroofingirl@gmail.com / www.oconnorroofing.com (8-4)

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Re-Upholstery

RE-UPHOLSTERY, CARPETS, CURTAINS, FURNITURE – Free estimates in your own home. Collection and delivery. Sofas and Couches made to order. Curtains and Pelmets made to measure. Extensive range of fabrics to choose from. Colour co-ordinating service free in Showrooms. A visit to our Showrooms is a must. Open Monday to Saturday incl. All work guaranteed. Ned O’Connell, Seafield, Youghal. Tel. (024) 93106.

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Painting & Powerwashing

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) (ind.) 6198876.

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Specialised Exterior Cleaning

IS YOUR HOUSE TURNING RED? – Is your roof covered in moss, lichen? One treatment of softwash solution or Algoclear, a highly effective process for cleaning exterior surfaces with excellent results, will have your home looking great again. Contact: Tom Curran on (087) 2484426 for your free quote and free test patch – you’ll be glad you called. (22-4)

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(ind.)

4 FRIESIAN COWS INCALF TO ABERDEEN ANGUS FOR SALE – Contact: (024) 96173. (15-4)

Novena

THE MIRACULOUS PRAYER – Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I’ve asked for many favours. This time I ask you this very special one (mention favour). Take it, Dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your own broken heart where your Father sees it. Then, in his merciful eyes, it will become your favour, not mine. Amen. (Say this prayer for 3 days, promise publication, and favour will be granted). Never known to fail. S.H. (8-4) THE MIRACLE PRAYER – Dear Heart of Jesus, in the past I have asked many favours. This time I ask you this special one (mention favour). Take it, Dear Heart of Jesus, and place it within your heart where your Father sees it. Then, in his merciful eyes, it will become your own favour, not mine. Amen. Say this prayer three times for three days and your favour will be granted. Never been known to fail. Must promise publication of prayer. K.F.

For Sale

TOP SOIL FOR SALE – Garde A. No stones. 5 ton to 300 ton. Dungarvan area. Contact: (086) 8342233. (22-4)

STAIRS CUSTOM JOINERY 087 2420124

FOR SALE – Round and Square Bales of Hay, Haylage, Silage, Straw and Pit Silage. Will deliver. Also Grass for Silage near Carrick. Tel. (086) 2539144 / (085) 7466567. (6-5) (ind.)

30 BALES OF SILAGE FOR SALE NEAR DUNGARVAN – Tel. (087) 6808289. BALED SILAGE FOR SALE – And 50 Bales of Haylage. Stradbally / Kilmacthomas area. Contact: (086) 8648188.

Livestock

DEAD & DISABLED CATTLE COLLECTED IN ALL AREAS – Ring: Fitzgerald’s Licensed Knackery, Coolagown. (025) 36662 or (086) 8193202 / (087) 8193202.

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(22-4)

Youghal, Co. Cork. Tel. (024) 92850 / 93469 blackwaterblindsltd@eircom.net

HUGE SAVINGS CALL TODAY FULL RANGE OF QUALITY BLINDS, CURTAINS AND ACCESSORIES Quotes, Measurements & Fitting Free of Charge You’ll be “BLINDED” by our SPECIAL PRICES & SERVICES

DON’T DELAY! CALL TODAY ON 024 92850/93469

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Farm Labourer

FARM LABOURER AVAILABLE – With years of experience with Machine Driving. Safe Pass to hand. All calls welcome. Tel. (087) 2454098. (22-4)

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Agri Sale

GALVANISED GATES – Barriers, Cubicles, Cattle Crush Panels, Cow Mats. Ryan Brothers, Ballymacarbry / www.ryanbrothers.ie / Laurence (087) 7994737. (ind.)

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C Missing

MISSING FROM LANDS AT TOOR / MOUNT STUART – Black Cow with Calf. Tagged. Gardaí notified. Reward offered. Tel. Billy at (087) 2686281.

C To Let

SHERRY FITZGERALD REYNOLDS LETTINGS – Urgently require Houses and Apartments TO LET in all areas of Dungarvan and West Waterford. Please contact Gerardine Reynolds on 087 2458848 / 058 23444. (ind.) 3 BEDROOM HOUSE TO LET – Cappagh area. Excellent condition. Tel. (087) 2630666. (22-4)

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Required To Rent

3 TO 4 BEDROOM HOUSE REQUIRED TO RENT IMMEDIATELY – Abbeyside / Dungarvan area. Long-term. Tel. (087) 4425442. (22-4)

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Long-term Lease

WANTED APPROX. 25 ACRES – And slatted cattle shed for long-term lease in the Dungarvan area. Contact: 087-7549655 after 6:00 p.m. (15-4)

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Land For Sale

14 ACRES AT DROMORE, AGLISH – Excellent road frontage. All enquiries to: Nicholas Dwane, Auctioneer. Mobile No. (087) 262 9539. Office: (058) 42064. Or Owners Mobile No. (087) 756 5603. (29-4)

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 the advertisement. (ind.)

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Advertising

Classifieds Deadline for all adverts is 10.00 a.m. each Tuesday

Telephone: (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

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

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

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

Floral & Artificial Wreaths Supplied Obituary Notices

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

Dungarvan poet included in Culture Ireland USA Reading Tour TWO Irish poets, Eleanor Hooker, Dromineer and Clodagh Beresford Dunne, Dungarvan will give readings, lectures, and interviews in Pittsburgh, USA, from April 12-21 2016. The kind invitations to read come from poets and Professors Tess Barry and Dr. John Lawson of Robert Morris University, and Professor Jan Beatty of Carlow University.The programme is part of Culture Ireland’s International Culture Programme celebrating Ireland 2016 At the invitation of American poet Jan Beatty, Hooker and Beresford Dunne will also travel to Washington, D.C. to participate in the National Poetry Festival, Split this Rock. With an emphasis on their poetry, Hooker will present a paper entitled, ‘Grandmother as Protagonist: The Poetry of Paula Meehan and Michael Hartnett’. Beresford Dunne will present a paper on ‘Intercultural Relations between Irish and American Poetry: The Poetry of Seamus Heaney and Paul Muldoon’. A full itinerary of the reading and lecture tour is available from the Culture Ireland website and the homepage of Dedalus Press, as well as Robert Morris University and Carlow University websites. Eleanor Hooker is a poet and writer living in Dromineer, North Tipperary. In 2016 she was selected as one of Poetry Ireland Review’s ‘Rising Generation’ of Irish poets. Her debut collection, The Shadow Owner's

Companion (The Dedalus Press) was shortlisted for the Strong/Shine Award. Her second poetry collection, A Tug of Blue, is forthcoming from The Dedalus Press in 2016. Her poems have appeared in a number of print journals worldwide including: Poetry Ireland Review, POETRY (Chicago), Agenda Poetry (London), PN Review (Manchester), The Stinging Fly, The SHOp, The Moth, The Irish Times, The Irish Examiner, Crannóg, POEM: International English Language Quarterly (London) and Cyphers. Online her poems have appeared in Southword, New Dublin Press, And Other Poems (UK), Poethead, Ink Sweat and Tears (UK), The Ofi Press (Mexico) The Pickled Body, artPAPIER (Poland). Her poetry has been featured on RTÉ Radio One. New poems are forthcoming in the following journals: Poetry Ireland Review, The Enchanting Verses (India) and Black Jack: Contemporary Irish Poetry (Romania). Her poems have been listed in a number of competitions, among them: Poetry Ireland/Trocaire Competition (1st Prize), Troubadour Competition UK (Highly Commended), Gregory O'Donoghue International Poetry Competition (Highly Commended), Listowel Original Short Poem (Shortlisted), nominated for a Pushcart Prize (2014) and for the Forward Prize for Best Single Poem (2014, 2016).

She is the recent recipient of 2016 Bare Fiction Prize (UK) for her Flash Fiction. Her fiction also been published in The Woven Tale Press and Banshee. She holds an MPhil (Distinction) in Creative Writing from Trinity College, Dublin, an MA (Hons) in Cultural History from the University of Northumbria and a BA (Hons 1st) from the Open University. Eleanor is founding member and Programme Curator for the Dromineer Literary Festival and currently a helm and Press Officer for the Lough Derg RNLI Lifeboat. Clodagh Beresford Dunne’s poems have appeared in Irish and international print and online journals, including The Stinging Fly, Southword, The Moth, The Pickled Body and Poetry 24. Described as “A writer of great seriousness and purpose,” Beresford Dunne’s poetry has been hailed as “Announcing a new vision to us, a new vortex of energy that localises human experience and domesticates genius.” She is the recipient of a number of Literature awards and bursaries from Artlinks and the Waterford City and County Arts Office. She holds degrees in English and in Law, and is a qualified solicitor, having trained and practiced in general, corporate and criminal law in Dublin. Born and raised in a regional newspaper family (her great grandfather, James A Lynch was founder of The Dungarvan

Importance of Census 2016 to Waterford ON Sunday, 24 April, every person in County Waterford will make their mark by completing, or being included on, a census form. By participating in the census, we are helping to shape our understanding about

life in Ireland in 2016, and show how Ireland has changed since the last census was taken in 2011. The census is a fundamental part of our national heritage and collective knowledge. The 2016 cen-

sus will take place exactly one hundred years to the day since the Easter Rising began, and the results will be of great interest to the historians of the future as they look back and reflect on life in Ireland in 2016.

Traditional Arts Bursary available for Waterford BLAS International Summer School of Irish Traditional Music and Dance is an internationally accredited summer school hosted annually by the Irish World Academy of Music and Dance and set on the campus at the University of Limerick, Ireland. In this its 20th anniversary year, Blas 2016 will run from June 20th to July 1st, 2016. Waterford City & County Council is offer-

ing financial support towards a bursary to attend this year’s summer school at the University of Limerick. Applications forms can be downloaded from www.waterfordcouncil.ie or by contacting the Arts Office on 058/41416. Full details on the summer school is available on www.blas.ie The Closing Date for receipt of applications is 12 noon on Friday, 29th April, 2016.

Eleanor Hooker – photograph by George Hooker. Observer,) her first story was committed to print at age 8. A qualified Public Speaking teacher (LAMDA), during her university years she was also involved in international intervarsity debating, was a finalist in the Irish Times Debates and represented Ireland on three occasions at the World Universities Debating Championships, including Princeton University NJ. She was winner of the Law Society of Ireland’s International Client Counselling Competition and the Coca Cola Irish Enterprise Award.

Clodagh Beresford Dunne – photograph by Eileen O'Flynn Hyland She currently resides in Dungarvan with her husband and four young children, is a freelance editor and teaches english, creative writing and public speaking. She is presently compiling her first full collection of poetry and in the past several years has attended numerous craft and manuscript workshops and received tutelage under the expert guidance of well known Irish and international poets. She is a founding member of the Dungarvan and West Waterford Writers’ Group.

Notice

TEMPORARY CLOSING OF ROADS SECTION 75 ROADS ACT 1993 Notice is hereby given that Waterford City and County Council, in exercise of its powers pursuant to Section 75 Roads Act 1993, propose to close the following roads, for periods, over the weekend of 16th & 17th April 2016 to facilitate the West Waterford Festival of Food. Roads to be Closed from 11.00am to 6.00pm on Saturday 16th April 2016 • L3139 The Quay • L3169 Thompson’s Lane • L3137 Galwey’s Lane • L3136 Carberry’s Lane • L3135 Road from Quay to junction at back of old Post Ofﬁce Roads to be closed from from 6.00am to 7.00pm on Sunday 17th April 2016 • R911 Grattan Square • L3132 Parnell Street and Lower Main Street • L3127 St. Augustine Street • L3143 TF Meagher Street • L3136 Carberry’s Lane • L3137 Galwey’s Lane Paul Daly, A/Director of Services Roads, HR & Emergency Services

6th April 2016

FEATURE

32 & 33 Pictured are some of the team at Minogue Furniture, Dungarvan. Left to right: Noel Bergin, Sales Manager; Michael Murphy, Salesperson; Geraldine Minogue, Proprietor; Mark Cahill, Store Manager; and Mary Uniacke, Salesperson.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Minogue Furniture celebrates opening of their Dungarvan showrooms MINOGUE Furniture celebrated the opening of their new 30,000 sq. ft. showroom in Kilrush Business Park, Dungarvan, last week, with a massive four-day sale on all furniture. Customers availed of fabulous deals and savings on a huge selection of extremely high quality furniture from top Irish suppliers and exclusive imports, from sofas, dining tables and chairs, bedroom furniture and occasional furniture with an abundance of mirrors, lamps accessories and rugs.

Dungarvan is their sixth store to open since 1994, when the business was established by husband and wife team, Geraldine and Michael Minogue. Minogue Furniture opened their doors to the Dungarvan public earlier in February. The official opening of the store was held last week. Their stunning showrooms in Dungarvan are in a beautiful setting, with ample room for parking. Minogue furniture, which is an Irish-owned and Irish-run family business, employs over 35 people,

some of whom have been with the company since 1994. Their emphasis is on a top-class personal service for all their customers, with high quality furniture at the right price. Their other five stores are located at Cashel, Roscrea, Midleton, Carlow and Tullamore. Call into Minogue Furniture at Kilrush Business Park, Dungarvan. Tel: 058-41411; www.minoguefurniture.com.

COUNTY NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Lions Club

NEWSREEL … Anxious or Depressed?

IN AID OF IRISH GUIDE DOGS FOR THE BLIND Lions Club International celebrates its centenary next year, having been founded in Chicago in 1917. Our District, which covers the island of Ireland, has chosen this charity as the beneficiary of a special project to mark the first hundred years. The above organisation and its equivalent in Northern Ireland have agreed to only utilise the funds raised for the purposes of breeding and train-

COME to our Support Group Meeting in Dungarvan. Venue: Deise Day Care, Dungarvan, Community Centre, Mitchel Street. Date: Every Tuesday at 8.00 p.m. Helpline: 1890 303 302. You are not alone! (ind.)

St. Michael’s Hall Ballyduff Upper Card Results 1st Peg Murray & Joan Hannon; Stephen Cunningham and Nellie Devine. Lucky Tables: Delia Cashell & Pat Noonan, Helen Morrissey & Pat O’Connor. Raffle: Peg Murrary x 2, Nellie Devine, Helen Cunningham, Aaron Pratt x 2, Sheila Lonergan, Helen O’Keeffe.

Anam Cara Tipperary Parent Evening ANAM Cara is an organisation that supports bereaved parents, Anam Cara support groups are situated throughout Ireland and provide parents a safe, comfortable environment where they have the opportunity to connect with other bereaved parents. Anam Cara is an inclusive organisation where parents do not identify themselves by their children’s age, how they died, or if their death was recent or many years ago.What Anam Cara provides is a safe place for bereaved parents to connect with others who understand the intensity of the grief and loss. Although Anam Cara does not offer counselling, each group has a lending library and information on the other services available to parents and families in the local community. Anam Cara, the organisation that supports bereaved parents, is holding its monthly Parent Evening on Monday, 18th April from 19.30 to 21.00 in the Horse & Jockey Hotel, Thurles, Co. Tipperary. Anam Cara Services are available free of charge to all bereaved parents. For further information please see our website at www.anamcara.ie email us at info@anamcara.ie or call 01 4045378.

Barony of Gaultier Historical Society THE Barony of Gaultier Historical Society is pleased to announce the last of its spring series of talks.This talk which will be presented by Mike Rook and is titled “Mike Rook reminisces on his time in Rhodesia during its guerrilla war and Unilateral Declaration of Independence (UDI)”. The venue is Hayes’ Bar, Killea and the starting time is 8.00 p.m. on Friday, 8th April. Admission is €5. In the talk Mike describes his forced exit after Rhodesia became a majority ruled independent Zimbabwe. Mike Rook was the former CEO of Zimbabwe’s Commercial Farmer’ Union Publications Division from 1979 to 2002. Mike was responsible for publishing 'The Rhodesian Farmer' magazine in the former Republic of Rhodesia, prior to its transition to a Robert Mugabe ruled Zimbabwe in 1980. Mike continued running the magazine as 'The Farmer' until violent farm invasions forced its closure early 2002. He is now retired amongst the quiet hedgerows of the Surrey countryside in the UK.

Alzheimer Society Saturday Club - Invitation 9th APRIL, 2016, the Alzheimer Society Saturday Club Entertainment with The Contenders, music and song, at the Deise Day Care Centre, Mitchell Street, Dungarvan, between 2.00 p.m. – 4.00 p.m. Light refreshments provided. For further information please phone: 086-8362619.

Outgoing Tús participants PJ Walsh and John Lyons maintaining the hedging on one of our finer days last year.

Ballysaggart 1916 COMMEMORATION Great progress was made for 1916 Commemorations in Ballysaggart at the meeting that was held last Thursday night. There is another meeting scheduled for this Thursday night the 7th, in the Community Centre at 8.30 p.m. This is a community event organised by all the clubs in the area and everyone is urged to get involved at the planning stage and in the planned activities. Anyone who has memorabilia or documentation from the time and wishes to share them please do come to the meeting as it is hoped that there will be a display of such items on the day. Any other ideas and offers of help would be much appreciated and again everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend the meeting, hope to see you all there. LITTER PICK The annual litter pick of the Ballysaggart area, in conjunction with the 1916 Commemoration preparations, will take place on Saturday, April 16th with the group meeting at the Community Centre at 10.00 a.m. Bags and pickers have been supplied by An Taisce and Waterford City and County Council will also be providing assistance. All help with the litter pick will be greatly appreciated as it is hoped that all roads from the top of Coolisheal to the Sandpit and all the by-roads in between will be covered. This work will make Ballysaggart a beautiful area

to live in and a place be proud of. TÚS PARTICIPANTS Ballysaggart Community Development Company have been very fortunate to benefit from the Tús Community Work Placement Scheme for a fourth year. The Tús initiative is a community work placement scheme providing short-term employment for people on the live register and is managed by Waterford Leader Partnership Ltd. for the Department of Social Protection, who has overall responsibility for the scheme. The participants this year were John Lyons and P.J. Walsh who are responsible for: keeping road margins clean and maintaining hedging and flower beds, maintaining church grounds and graveyard, upkeep of the Community Centre and litter control on the approaches to the village, leading to visible improvements around the Ballysaggart area. The two men were committed to their duties did an excellent job all year in all weather. The entire community would like to sincerely thank John and P.J. and wish them well in the future. LADIES CLUB Ballysaggart ladies club held their March meeting on Monday, March 14th. The guest on the night was Colour Me Beautiful stylist Kathy Fitzpatrick. A great night was had by all with lots of advice being given about colour and style as well as hints and tips, Kathy

can be contacted for any advice anytime on 0877611749. Our April meeting will take place on Monday, April 11th. On this occasion we are on the road, we are going on an evening out to Blackwater Garden Centre, meet at The Church at 6.30 p.m. to car pool. Light refreshments will be served so therefore we need numbers so anyone who is travelling could they please let any of the officers know as soon as possible, they can be contacted on the following numbers: Maureen 087955867, Bridie 0876572776, or Mary 0877421345. TABLE QUIZ REMINDER Ballyduff-Ballysaggart Macra are hosting our first event, a quiz!! The venue is The Log Cabin, Ballyduff Upr, and the date to save is Friday, April 8th at 8.00 p.m.! It will be €20 for a table of four. We will have first and second prize and a prize for the best team name!! There will be a raffle on the night with some great prizes.......some not so great, and we have D.J. Bear to entertain us after the quiz, sure to be a great night! Everyone welcome! COMMUNITY COUNCIL 45 CARD RESULTS Helen Morrissey and Dave Fennessy. Pat O’Connor and Pat Kirby. Lucky Tables: Mary Power and Ber Coughlan; Stephen Cunningham and Fr. Cullinan. Tickets: Delia Cashell, Pat O'Connor, Fr. Cullinan and Nellie Devine.

ing dogs.This is in line with our practice of not providing funding for administrative or salary purposes. PREMIERE NIGHT SATURDAY, 23rd APRIL The screening will be preceded by a cheese and wine reception at 7.00 p.m. followed by the film at 7.30 p.m. Tickets for this event are €15 and are available from:The Wine Buff - 058 24523; Lismore Heritage Centre – 058-54975; Lions Club – 087-6653191.

Men’s Health Event Thursday, April 7th DUNGARVAN Men's Social & Educational Group in conjunction with Cumann na Doaine's Men's Social/Shed Group Youghal, Co. Cork, are thrilled to be hosting a Men's Health event in Cumann na Doaine on Thursday, April 7th from 11.00 a.m. to approximately 3.00 p.m. in the main hall. Organisations such as the Irish Cancer Society & the National Cancer Screening Unit will be with us and they will cover topics such as smoking, lung, prostrate, testicular and bowel cancer. They will be present to take your questions and they will do an awareness talk also. We also have the Asthma Society of Ireland who will do a workshop on using your devices correctly, and what to do in the event of someone having an asthma attack. Again they will be happy to answer any questions you have and give out information. You will also be able to get free blood pressure done and Diabetes Ireland will also be present to take a free glucose reading. Plus we will have plenty stands there from local to regional organisations which will be covering all aspects of health, covering physical, mental, emotional and medical We encourage anyone who wishes to come along to do so. While we are highlighting Men’s Health, the event is open to all within the community We will be providing a FREE HEALTHY LUNCH, and lots of teas and coffees on the go FREE. This event is open to everyone in the Community. For further information ring Dolores on 024-91900.

COUNTY NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Irish Red Cross Portlaw

Kill KILL COMMUNITY CENTRE AFTERSCHOOL SERVICE Please note the changed contact details for Afterschool bookings and enquiries is 086 1561 993. We would like to welcome Siobhan McGrath to the Kill Community Centre Team as our new Afterschool Co-ordinator and thank Louise and Colette for their work to date. Thank you also to all the parents who have been supporting this service in the village. The children have had exciting fun times in a safe environment and having homework completed before going home makes for relaxing evenings. BIRTHDAY WISHES A very happy birthday to Aoife Mooney, Ciara McCarthy and also Brendan Gallagher who celebrated their birthdays last week – wishing you all a very happy and brilliant year ahead! AN TAISCE NATIONAL SPRING CLEAN Well done to all who braved the weather last week for another round of litter picking in and around our village.There are plenty more projects by the Kill Action Group in the pipeline, so watch this space for updates! A big thank you to all who helped with the organisation, helped on the day and the council workers who made sure the bags were collected in a timely manner. Kill Action Group also planted 50 roses in the village with more to come. We would like to ask road users to drive considerately while work goes on along the roadsides and to please keep an eye out for

WELL done to all who took part in our Cardiac First Responder Scenario Training earlier last week, it is vital for all responders to train in realistic settings to keep up and be confident in the essential life saving skills. Huge congratulations to our members Jon Doyle and Keith Norris who recently passed their examinations as Emergency Medical Technicians. Nearly a year of studying and practising has resulted in this qualification. Well done to both on their hard work, it is great to have an additional two EMTs on board the Portlaw Unit.

Bonmahon BONMAHON COMMUNITY SOCIETY At last week's Lotto draw we drew the numbers 2, 8, 21, 32. There was no Jackpot winner but we had one match 3 winner, Charlie McKeon who receives €100. Congratulations Charlie! This week’s Jackpot will be €5,100 and the draw will take place on Thursday night in Hayes’ Bar. NEWS FROM THE ART HAND 3 Venues...The WORDS Event is spreading its wings Join us! We are delighted to announce that the April WORDS Event will take place at Mother McHugh’s Bar in Fenor on Wednesday, April 6th at 7.45 p.m. The May event returns to The Art Hand and in June the event will take place in the Geopark Visitors Centre in Bunmahon. All are welcome, please spread the WORD, no pun intended! The WORDS Event takes place every first Wednesday of the month. Meanwhile, we've just completed a short film called SISTERS which stars Victoria Hamersley in a variety of locations along The Copper Coast and at The Art Hand. The film was written and directed by Sean Corcoran and produced by Angela Mulcahy. Cinematography and editing was by Keith Currams. The film will be screened at the March on Film Festival soon. Watch this space for details to be announced.

Some of the young Kill entrepreneurs at last week’s Lemonade Charity Drive. high visibility vests which are always worn by our volunteers. Thank you. BINGO Our next Bingo night in Kill Community Centre will take place on Thursday next week with a growing jackpot of €260! Doors open at 7.30 pm, eyes down at 8 pm sharp. Come along and try it for yourself, it’s a

great night out! KILL CARDIAC FIRST RESPONSE GROUP Well done to our responders who had a few quite busy weeks allround.We are currently recruiting for more responders from any area of Kill and surrounding areas to join our team. The commitment involved is not as big as you may think

The road to Carrolls’ Cross was on the litter-picking agenda at the recent first litterpick of the year. Residents of all ages helped with this and accumulated an astonishing amount of rubbish with a great looking result – well done! While some of the group tidied up the roads, roses were planted along the roadside. We are looking forward to seeing these blooming and adding a splash of colour soon!

but it certainly could save a life. If you would consider becoming a responder, please contact us on 087 6646 824. BACK TO SCHOOL Welcome back to all the pupils and staff of Kill National School this week. We hope you had a wonderful Easter holiday and are looking forward to lots of learning and lots of activity coming up! Swimming classes, gymnastics and more are on the schedule for the months to come. IT’S YOUR COLUMN If you have any items you would like to see in this column, please send them on to mareikerembold @eircom.net or text to 087 4133 522. Could all items please be submitted by Thursday evening to ensure inclusion. Thank you! HUMANITY IN ACTION We keep hearing of how the next generation has lost manners and humanity and children these days are only interested in technology... well, I for one must say I was astonished to see a sizeable group of children spending several days during the Easter Holidays outside, in the hail, sun, rain, only coming indoors to

produce a special recipe lemonade and orangeade. Having fabricated posters, signs and other advertising materials, refreshments were then sold by the roadside and came with free apple slices with every drink bought, great value altogether. That’s a lot of treats to be bought, you might say, but no! The group of over 10 children democratically decided that all proceeds were to go towards charities – cancer causes and the homeless. No adult interference was required, not even adult refereeing was needed at any stage, such was the focus on making it happen. A big thank you to all those who slowed down and purchased “Lemonade, ice-cold lemonade”. The proceeds are currently awaiting either further sales or presentation to the respective charities. The moral of the story, without any adult guidance, the focus on a goal made these children pull together and learn about democracy, friendship, charity, creating interesting recipes (kiwi krush anyone?), entrepreneurship, persistence, maths, advertising and much more. Congratulations to the crews, faith in humanity for the future is restored!

Kilrossanty WHIST Whist will resume this Friday night in the hall at 8.00 p.m. New members welcome. COLLECTION Collection this weekend for Kilrossanty/Brickey’s Ladies football club outside both churches. DANCE Dance this Saturday night in Crotty’s Inn Benefit Night in aid of Robert Downey’s Wish to Walk. Admission is 12.50 p.m. Dancing 9.00 p.m. sharp. Southern Pride, Mary Prendergast, Paddy Joe Ryan, Gerry Walsh and Dallas, John O’Shea, WLR, Bachelors in Trouble. Raffle on the night. COFFEE MORNING Thanks to all who supported the Coffee Morning and Cake Sale last Sunday in the hall it was in aid of local helper/volunteer from the Parish going on the Lourdes Pilgrimage in June, also some proceeds will go to Kilrossanty fews Invalid fund. Thanks to all who baked for the occasion.Your generosity is appreciated. MEETING A meeting will be held this Friday night in Micilin’s to form a committee to organise the reading of the Proclamation at the Republican plot on the eve of the Centenary Rising on 23rd April. For more details contacxt John Quinn at 087-2863161. Meeting at 9.00 p.m. CLEAN-UP There was a great turn out on Easter Monday last for the annual clean-up. Our area is looking better thanks to the volunteers. Hope it will be kept tidy in the future. Bring home your own litter and discourage littering other areas. Thanks to litter pickers, drivers, refreshment providers and County Council. Special thanks to sponsors. I.C.A. The Guild will hold their monthly meeting next Monday night at 8.00 p.m. Hope to see all members there. It’s the Annual General Meeting.The competition is for the best Flower Arrangement in a Shoe. Quiz coming up soon and other events.

COUNTY NEWS

SPECIALS IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE SGC We are delighted to have specials in conjunction with the SGC Dungarvan. For April we will have Painting the Modern Garden: Monet to Matisse. This will be taking place on Tuesday, April 12th.Tickets are available at the museum to members, at the reduced price of €10. Monet was an avid horticulturist and arguably the most important painter of gardens in the history of art. He saw the garden as a powerful subject for his art. A SPRING AFTERNOON IN DROMANA HOUSE AND GARDENS Venue: Dromana House and Gardens. Date: Saturday, April 30th. Time: commencing at 2.30 p.m. Booking essential: €30 includes talks, afternoon tea and tour of the gardens. Email: info@dromanahouse.com. Tel: 0868186305. Programme is as follows: 2.30 p.m. Arrival/Registration 3.00 p.m. - ‘Grand Designs – Houses, Gardens and Landscapes of the Blackwater Valley’ 4.00 p.m. - Afternoon tea followed by a tour of Dromana Gardens 5.15 p.m. - End of proceedings Following on from Dromana is an evening event at Lismore Castle at 6.00 p.m. Email for details: director@lismorecastlearts.ie LOCAL HISTORIC PHOTOGRAPHIC EXHIBITION Photographs from the Tomás and Kathleen Walsh Collection in association with Helvick Head Lifeboat Station. Venue: Dungarvan Harbour Sailing Club Date and Time: Friday, April 15th - 8.00 p.m.; Saturday, April 16th – 11.00 a.m.; Sunday, April 17th – 11.00 a.m. 1916 RISING This exhibition will be opening on April 24th. Please keep an eye on the notes for further details and time. Just a little reminder if you have anything relating to this period which you would like to have displayed or indeed donate, please feel free to call into us.We are in the process of preparing this exhibition and look forward with anticipation to the

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

The new graveyard in Kilgobinet features substantial black and red granite stones which were quarried in China and India. Inscriptions, many of them in Irish, are often computer guided and cut. In the future, archaeologists will use such remains to trace 21st century world trade routes and global economics. opening. TRIP AWAY Our trip away to the Hodson Bay Hotel in Athlone is fast approaching. We are looking forward to a great couple of days. Get your bags packed. The count-down is on! 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. Looking ahead to the 1916 commemorations we would also be interested in any artefacts or photographs relating to that period. VISITING THE MUSEUM We welcome visits from schools, community groups, and local history societies. Please contact us at 05845960 to arrange a visit. Let us know if you are interested in a particular subject and we will focus on that during the visit. FIRST WORLD WAR CASUALTY LIST FOR WEEK ENDING APRIL 6th Name: Thomas Dalton; Age: 50; Service No. Rank: 6988 Pr. Army; Service: Army; Unit: R.I. Reg. 2 Garrison Bn; Where Born: Dungarvan; Death Category: Died; Date of Death: 31/3/’16. Name: David Bishop Mary McEniry; Age: 33; Service No. Rank: 7637 Gunner; Service: Army; Unit: R. Gar. Art. 61 Mortar B; Where Born: Clonmel/Ballymac; Death Category: Killed in action; Date of Death: 1/4/’16. Name: Michael Power; Age: 20; Service No. Rank: 20; Service No. Rank: 20942 Pr.; Service: Army; Unit: Wilts. Reg. 5Bn; Where Born: Kilmeadan; Death Category: Killed in action; Date of Death: 5/4/’16. OPENING HOURS Monday to Friday 10.00 a.m. - 5.00 p.m. Admission is free.

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

Kilgobinet/Colligan/Kilbrien LIVING MEMORY The old graveyard in Kilgobinet has been used and reused by at least forty generations of local families. The erection of large, inscribed headstones in the 1700's was an increasingly popular way for people of means to honour the memory of a beloved relative or friend. But, these memorials also served as unmistakeable property markers. Their increasing use froze the use of this land in succeeding generations. Over roughly two and a half centuries, 250 years, the graveyard began to fill up. By the mid-1970's, the community needed new burial grounds. Land just below Kilgobinet Church and abutting the old graveyard was donated by the Queally family of Kilgobinet. Willy Fennell, a local contractor, was hired to dig the newly acquired field with one of his JCB's. Rocky doesn't begin to describe this land. Bedrock, that's what the JCB encountered. Locals remember the machine working and reworking the ground for what seemed like ages. A generation of priests had a part in preparing the new cemetery. Fr. Dennis McGrath, Fr. Michael Farrell and Fr. John Morrissey all were involved. Much of the work had been completed by the time Fr. Richard Doherty became Parish Priest in 1985. He recalls his share of the project. "I tried to put order into it, the best I could." DIGGING The first burials in the new cemetery occurred in the mid-1970's. Martin Tobin and Paudy Guiry were gravediggers during the 1980's and they came to know the soils of the new graveyard better than anyone. Martin remembers digging there. "It took a while to get into it. You'd miss a stroke." But, after he got into the rhythm, things would go "dead easy. And you'd be working! You weren't sitting down talking." Stone? Despite the extensive earth moving in the 1970's, there was still plenty of it. Then things would slow down.When a plot turned out to be directly over solid rock that Willy Fennell's JCB had missed a mini-digger had to be hired. It took at least two and a half hours of toil, five man

hours, to dig a plot in the new cemetery four to five feet deep. "It depended on the amount of stone you met." Martin and Paudy dug mostly in the evenings after putting in eight hours at the day job . If the ground was frozen or it was snowing, tough luck. The graves had to be dug and this was done the evening, or at most two, before they were needed. TRADITIONS Mondays were a problem. "If you're digging for the Monday, you're digging for the week" was the old pisheog. This is the tradition still in Kilbrien, but crafty Irishmen, they figured a way around it. Turn the first sod on Sunday and it's okay to just 'finish' the job on Monday. One man remembers when news reached the parish of an uncle's passing in America. Nothing would do for it, the man's father insisted, but they must head right down to Kilgobinet, shovel over the shoulders, and dig a six inch square in the sod covering the family grave. "To let him in." At Kilgobinet, Gusty Dalton frequently did the digging for his neighbours. One man remembers that "If you saw Gusty with a shovel, you knew someone had died." Otherwise it was the neighbours and cousins that dug new graves. That was back when most of the locals were farmers with plenty of strong men well used to the spade and pick. A family member would meet the neighbours at the cemetery to point out the family plot. It was customary for the family of the deceased to treat

the diggers to drinks at Kilgobinet pub. As one grateful recipient recalls, "Many's the drop of whiskey that was drunk there. Sometimes maybe a little too many." In other locales not so happily co-located, a bottle of whiskey was often pressed into the diggers' hands. 20th CENTURY CHANGES But, gradually, the job of arranging funerals passed into the hands of professionals. Public liability insurance worries accelerated the shift. The twentieth century witnessed the foundation of Dungarvan town's two current funeral firms, both with deep ties to KCK parish. Another change was the increasing use of granite monuments and computer guided inscriptions.The red and black granites that came to predominate in the new graveyard were quarried mostly in China and India. In years to come when archaeologists examine Kilgobinet they'll rebuild 21st century global trade patterns based on these stones. FUNERAL DIRECTORS James Kiely opened his funeral business in 1919 at the time of the Irish War of Independence. His son Ned took on the responsibility in 1963 and he, in turn, was followed by his son David in 1996. And now David's son Darragh is involved in the family firm. The family still remembers the sad days in February 1947 when the SS Ary foundered near Ardmore. James Kiely & Sons, Funeral Directors handled the arrangements for the eleven sailors who were washed ashore.

What makes this a parish story is that David Kiely, grandson of the founder, moved to Killadangan in 1982 and there established the family's very successful monument business. What brought David back home from his teaching job in Dublin was the unexpected and untimely death of his mother at the age of 54. His father needed help, and David pitched in while also teaching at the Christian Brothers in Dungarvan. It was another parish man, Tom Drohan of Ballyconnery, who opened Dungarvan's second funeral concern. With a single firm enjoying a near monopoly,Tom saw an opportunity and handled his first funeral in January of 1988. Remarkably, Tom's mother also passed away suddenly at the age of 57 just weeks after he launched his venture. So, Tom's very first Kilgobinet burial was that of his mother. Since that harrowing first experience, Tom's business has also prospered and he has arranged dozens of funerals in Kilgobinet's old and new cemeteries. Tom Drohan needed someone local and reliable to excavate in Kilgobinet and he contacted Martin Tobin, who had dug the occasional grave to help neighbours. In turn, Martin asked his neighbour Paudy Guiry to help and, simple as that, the pair began to dig. But, just to close the circle, Paudy was already an old hand at the business having worked with the Kiely family for years. FUN FAMILY QUIZ 17th April, Sunday Coolnasmear School Parent's Association with legendary

Table Quiz host Brendan "Bob" O'Brien meet at the Queally's pub (Gary's) in Bohadoon at 5.00 p.m. All are invited. FITNESS WALKS REMINDER Morning at 9.00 a.m. in front of Coolnasmear School. Night: Monday and Friday nights at 9.00 p.m. in from of Coolnasmear School. Wear a reflective jacket and bring a torch. All are invited on these 3.5 mile walks. KILBRIEN SCHOOL OPEN DAY Kilbrien National School will have an Active Schools Week from Monday, 11th April to Friday, 15th April. On Wednesday, 13th April the teachers and students are organising activities for younger children those of preschool age and younger. Any toddlers are welcome to come along from 11.30 a.m. to 12.00 noon. Then pre-school children are welcome from 1 p.m. to 2.00 p.m. This invitation is open to all children (not just those interested in attending Kilbrien NS.) Then at 2.00 p.m. children and parents interested in Kilbrien NS should stay on for an Open Day. The Open Day is from 2.00 p.m. to 3.00 p.m. If there are any parents who are unable to attend the Open Day due to work/other commitments but would like to see the school please contact our secretary Kathleen (058-47416) between 2.00 p.m. to 3.00 p.m. daily to arrange an appointment. INCLUDE YOUR INFO Scott Simons - greenhillsofireland@gmail.com

Colligan Clean-up Crew 2016. Many miles of parish roads were cleared of litter by these volunteers and those who turned out in Kilbrien. It's great that so many families participating. Teach the children well and the task is half done.

COUNTY NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

KCK Community Games THE first main event of the 2016 Community Games season was the county swimming final which was held on Wednesday, March 16th in Waterford Crystal Sports and Leisure Centre. Thirteen swimmers from the KCK area competed on a very successful night. Aoibhinn Ryan was the

first gold medal winner in the U-8 girls’ freestyle. Robert Power on his first community games swim to brought home a silver medal. Brian Veale won the bronze in the U-10 boys’ freestyle just ahead of Eoghan White who was unlucky to miss out on a medal following a strong

swim. Eoin Veale took the silver in U-12. Nadia Power was second in her U-14 heat but was pipped at the post in the final finishing in 4th. John David White made an impressive swim U-14 finishing 2nd. Silver and Bronze went to Mary Bradfield and Corinne Toft respectfully in U-14 back-

Bronze medals for U-13 girls’ swim relay: Mary Bradfield, Nadia Power, Helena Barry and missing from photo Corinne Toft.

stroke, well done girls. Eanna Drohan took the silver in U-12 breast stroke. Tommy Condon struck gold with a determined finish for U-14 breast stroke. There was huge excitement for the U-13 relays. The girls’ team of Nadia Power, Helena Barry, Corinne Toft and Mary Bradfield fought hard pushing to the limit securing a bronze medal for their area amid strong competition. The boys relay was next up with John David White, Eanna Drohan, Eoin Veale and Shane Power. The boys knew the pressure would be on and they battled hard finishing clear winners taking home deserving gold medals. Congratulations to the entire KCK team taking home a swoop of seventeen medals. Best of luck to Aoibhinn, Tommy, John David, Eanna, Eoin and Shane who will represent Waterford in the National Finals Athlone in August.

Leah and Shayna Sammon pictured at the annual Ballinamult Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt in aid of Barnardos. The local event was one of 25 community events taking place across Ireland this Easter in support of Barnardos. People can still support Barnardos by texting ‘BARNARDOS’ to 50300 to donate €4* to a very worthy cause! *100% of your donation goes to Barnardos across most network operators. Some operators apply VAT which means that a minimum of €3.25 will go to Barnardos. Service Provider: LIKECHARITY. Helpline: 0766805278. [Leo Murphy]

Stradbally Gold for the U-13 boys’ swim relay: Eanna Drohan, Eoin Veale, John David White and Shane Power.

Members of the jubilant KCK Community Games Team show their medals following a fantastic county swim in Waterford on March 16th.

IFA PRESIDENTIAL VOTING NIGHTS The dates and times for the local IFA President election for members is as follows: The Rainbow Hall, Kilmacthomas on Thursday, 7th April at 7.30 p.m. The GAA Centre, Stradbally on Wednesday, 13th April at 8.30 p.m. TIDY TOWNS NEWS For 2016, Stradbally Tidy Towns Committee is continuing their Water Conservation and Sustainable Waste and Resource Management project following last year’s success, by providing a number of Water Butts and Home Compost Bins at an attractive price on a first come first served basis for anyone interested in the village. With bills coming in the door for water and pay by weight coming on stream from the 1st July for our bin collection, this project is invaluable to any household. Please make contact with any of the committee for further details.

LOCAL EQUINE NEWS Shay Barry records his first double as a trainer when ‘That’s My Robin’ and ‘Rocky Stream’ with David Kiely, Littlewood, Stradbally on board won in style at Waterford Foxhounds Point-to-Point fixture at Curraghmore Estate on Saturday, 27th March. Well done and congratulations to both trainer and jockey. STRADBALLY MARKET The lucky winner of the Easter hamper at the Stradbally Market was Joan Cashin, the Square, Stradbally. Last Saturday the stall holders were delighted to meet some lovely visitors from Durham in England and Wales who dropped in when coming from the boat in Rosslare and sampled the local baking and enjoyed a cup of tea as they arrived on holidays. The market continues each Saturday morning from 10.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. at the Cove Bar, Stradbally with local produce, home

baking, local photographs cards, jams, fruit and vegetables and a great cup of tea. STRADBALLY WHIST A good evening was had by all on Friday, 1st April. The overall prize was won by Maria Dunphy and the winner of the 1st Raffle prize was Joan Cashin. The next meeting is on Friday, 15th April, at the 'Barron Hall' Stradbally. Open 7.30 p.m. for 8.00 p.m. start. Just €5 for the evening with tea and cakes. There are 11 prizes to be won in the whist, overall winner, best ladies score, best gents score and, of course, the lowest points gained and many more.The raffle is €1 a ticket with lovely prizes. Visitors are very welcome and we see folks who come to the area on holiday. So come along and see what we are about. We teach whist between 7.30 p.m. and the start of the main game and can guarantee that by then you will be playing (with the assistance of a member). See you there!

COUNTY NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Ballinameela

Mikey Carey thought he was in for quiet night to celebrate his 40th Birthday, out for a meal with his wife Carol and his parents, Paddy Joe and Peggy, when on the way home it was suggested they pop in to Whelan’s Bar in Stradbally for a quickie. He entered the Bar to a roaring cheer as his relations and friends who packed the place out to celebrate his birthday with a surprise party. His face was a picture of delightful surprise, how did that many people keep it a secret? Picture taken at the party (l. to r.): Tina Carey, Dean Carey, Carol Carey, P.J. Carey, Nickola Carey, birthday boy Mikey Carey, Peggy Carey, Shane Carey and Michael Fraher. What a night thanks to John and Caroline Whelan for the use of the bar and the excellent buffet. [Richard Cutbill]

NOSTALGIA FOR RETRO BY DONAL BUCKLEY On a recent visit to the Dungarvan Shopping Centre, as we sauntered through the milling throngs, there was a loud bang. Immediately everyone looked around for the source of this noise. It wasn't that people were alarmed or searching for the exits, but purely out of nosiness. In other words, having an auld gawk. It transpires that someone had accidently dropped a case of tinned fruit and the acoustics of the main concourse magnified the sound. The owner of the fruit was suitably embarrassed and the curiosity of the onlookers was suitably sated. With a little eye-rolling and some tut-tutting everyone went on about their business. No commotion, no panic, its the Irish way. If a fire alarm were to go off in a pub, NON Irish people would gather their belongings, rush for the door and move a safe distance from the endangered building. The Irish patrons would finish their drinks, order another one and walk outside (drinks in hand) to discuss with the fire brigade how best to deal with the imminent conflagration.

Panic is not something that sits well with the Irish personality. In Spain they have a word for not resolving a problem immediately. Its called “Manana” (tomorrow). In Ireland, we don't have a word for anything that urgent. Continuing our stroll around the shops, something struck me. (No, it wasn't an escaped tin of fruit!) It seems to me that Retro style has become a unique selling point for goods of a decorative nature.This has been the case for quite a number of years now. Whether you buy some useful containers, lampshades or small pieces of furniture, it all has an “oldfashioned” look about it. Art Deco from the 1920's to the psychedelic colours of the '60's pervade many of the fashionable outlets on the high streets these days. CD players and DAB radios are made to look like old record players and walnut wireless sets. Chests of drawers, shelving and garden ornaments have a distinctly distressed look about them. Young people are wearing clothes that are made to look like 1950's" Varsity" sports gear. Maybe TV programmes like “Mr.

Selfridge”, “Downton Abbey” or “Call the Midwife” influence our needs and desires. Maybe we want to hark back to a time when things were made by hand and with attention to detail. Maybe we want to surround ourselves with basic values and dependability. Could it be we need to be cocooned in a time of innocence and safety. I'm guessing that the people of Brussels, Istanbul, Paris, and Jakarta would like to return to those times. Times when somebody could drop a case of tinned fruit and not cause fear and panic. We can't take our relative isolation from terrorist attacks for granted. Vigilance is never wasted. Ballinameela Creatives continue to push the boundaries of artistic endeavour in Paula's Pottery class at The Nook, Modeligo every Thursday night at 7.30 p.m. American author David Levithan once said, “What separates us from the animals, what separates us from the chaos, is our ability to mourn people we've never met”.

BOOKING THE HALL There is still some available slots for the evenings, so if you would like to start your own in-door soccer games for the Winter or other activity you can book the hall through our new booking officer – Alison Curran 087-8289147. The centre is also a great place for kids parties etc and can be rented for €30. Anyone renting the hall, please pay the person who opens up the hall for you and please take away your own rubbish. If you are borrowing anything from the hall, these must be booked through our booking officer Alison Curran. Each month someone on the committee is responsible for opening and closing the hall, for the month of April it is Niamh Reynolds who can be contacted on 0876792321. FINISK VALLY AC NOTES Any children in our community who is interested running, jumping or throwing and would like to get involved in athletics, call down to Ballinameela community pitch/hall, training times are Wednesday & Friday evenings from 7.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m., Minimum age limit is 5 years old (Child needs to be School going). Saturday training is for jumps and throws only, age 9 up from 10.30 a.m. to 11.30 a.m., this is to prepare kids for completion. Next completion is Ferrybank Open Sports Waterford RSC track on Sunday, 10th April. Leevale open sports CIT on Sunday, 17th April and Waterford County championships in Waterford RSC on 8th and 15th May. Anybody interesting in competing in these please contact the club. Full programme on events can be obtained at our training sessions. BALLINAMEELA ADULT AND TODDLER GROUP Ballinameela Adult & Toddler Group meets every Thursday from 9.30 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. in the halla of Whitechurch National School. New parents, childminders, grandparents with toddlers very welcome. For more information contact Janice on 087-9718945. BADMINTON If you fancy a sociable game of badminton come along to Ballinameela Community Centre on Tuesday nights from 8.00 p.m. to 10.00 p.m. If interested contact Mairead at 087-7681975. COMMUNITY ALERT There is a Community Alert text system in place text your name and mobile number to this number:

087-3538347. It works in 2 ways, firstly a message regarding any suspicious activity is sent to your phone so you can be on the lookout. Secondly you can send details of suspicious activity to this number where it will be re-sent around to the community and to the Gardai who treat it as serious and act immediately. Follow on facebook www.facebook.com/parish.communityalert.ie BALLINAMEELA FOROIGE Ballinameela Foroige has returned to the hall. The club urgently needs volunteer leaders to help supervise at the weekly meetings. Could you spare 1 hour for about 8 Thursdays in the year, we operate a rota system for leaders so you will not be required to attend all the meetings. If anyone would like more information or is interested in getting involved please call or text Moya 087-6356478. Foroige is a great initiative for teens in our community so we would urge anyone who can help out to consider getting involved. COFFEE MORNING IN AID OF IRISH CANCER SOCIETY FUNDRAISER Come and join us and bring a friend for a Coffee Morning and Bring and Buy Cake Sale in Villierstown Boat Club, on Villierstown Quay in aid of the Irish Cancer Society. Each year we have this fundraiser and are always amazed by people’s generosity. Saturday, 9th April from 11.30 a.m. “Cancer affects all of us, whether you’re a daughter, mother, father, brother sister, friend, co-worker, doctor, or patient.” –Jennifer Aniston LOURDES CHURCH GATE COLLECTION The Aglish / Ballinameela / Mount Stuart Lourdes Fund Raising Committee are holding their annual Church Gate Collection on the 9th and 10th April, 2016. Your support for this local cause would be much appreciated.' FUN FIT DANCE CLASSES Fun Fit Dance Classes for the Busy Women - Come to the funeral of your love handles, muffin top and any excess calories at the most fun exercise classes! Optional 1.5kg weights for some of the routines. For all ages & abilities! Every Tuesday in Villierstown Church 7.00 p.m. - 8.00 p.m., €5 per person. Starting in Aglish Community Hall on Thursday 4th February then every Thursday after that 7.00 p.m. - 8.00 p.m., €5 per person! Guaranteed to leave feeling fabulous both physically & mentally!

No pre-booking necessary, just show up - it's that simple! AGLISH FIT FOR LIFE MAIN SPONSOR LIDL 4th Aglish Fun Run / Walk took place on Easter Monday in brilliant sunshine.The gods smiled on us again this year with the weather. Over 450 adults and children and a few dogs took to the roads of Aglish. Some ran some walked and some crawled 5 or 10k around Bleech in aid of the Children's Hospital Crumlin. With over 70 Spot Prizes on offer and loads of food everyone went home happy. This fundraising event would not be possible without our sponsors, too many to mention here. A full list appears on our Facebook page. Please support our sponsors whenever you can. I would like to thank everyone that helped out on the day, stewards, catering staff, civil defence, Conor and Jamie on traffic control, David and James on the cameras, ladies on registration and on ticket duty, all who helped with food. Thanks to West Waterford AC for use of the van and the clock and Aglish Community Hall for use of their premises. If I omitted anybody from the list I apologise.To the people who took sponsorship cards and to members of Aglish Fit4Life who contributed €2 every night over the winter months thanks very much.To all the people that travelled to Aglish to take part thanks a million. Hundreds of photographs up on DC Images and West Waterford AC Facebook site of the Run. Also a small promotional video on site as well. As I write these notes we are approaching €5,000.00 in contributions for Children's Hospital Crumlin. Final total will be up on Facebook early next week. Finally to the local papers and local corrospondents thanks for all the publicity. LOTTO RESULTS Numbers drawn were 2, 5 and 27. There was no winner. €20 winners were Derry Twomey c/o Park Hotel; Mary Fletcher, Ballylemon; Claire Shine, Cappagh; Mary Daly, Barnastook and Brenda Hunt, c/o William Buckley. Next week’s Jackpot is €650 and the draw will take place in Kereen Bar. NOTES FOR INCLUSION If you have something you would like in the Ballinameela notes you can email Claire Tobin on fitz_tobin@yahoo.co.uk or phone 087-6808287. Follow and like us on facebook, Ballinameela Community Centre.

COUNTY NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

“Oliver” The Musical “PLEASE Sir can I have some more.” “Consider yourself.” “Om Pa Pa.” Just 4 away! Tickets on sale this week! We are thrilled to announce we are bringing “OLIVER” to Dungarvan Audiences this May! OPENING NIGHT May 4th–7th in Dungarvan Town Hall theatre 8.00 p.m. start. From the team that brought you “ALL SHOOK UP” “SISTER ACT” and The Yearly Dungarvan Town Pantomime! This much loved Family Musical is packed with well known characters, music, dancing and talent. Tickets on sale in David Walsh Office Supplies, and Kelly’s Chemist, Abbeyside & Ray Kelly’s Wellbeing Centre Family (Group Concessions are available). Again this fabulous cast from Lismore! Clonmel! Stradbally! England! and Dungarvan will perform for the “Dungarvan Festival of food” so watch out for Oliver characters floating around the town over the next few weeks! We have lots of New Fresh faces who are practising hard to ensure you enjoy this family show. Edmund Spratt as Oliver, Michael Drummy as Fagin, Pat Kinghtly as Bill Sykes, Martine Rogers as Widow Corney, Tom Rogers as Mr. Bumble, John Walsh as Mr. Sowerberry, Aislinn Celisse

Morrissey as Mrs Sowerberry, Fidelma Meaney as Old Sally, Clint Cunnage as Mr. Brownlowe, Dennis Butcher as Dr. Grimwig, Tomas Rogers as The Artful Dodger, Meg Marriot as Charlotte, Patrick O’Dwyer as Noah Claypole, Sarah Norris as Bet and Carol Elstead Thomas as Nancy and a fabulous ensemble of dancers and singers. Since February rehearsals are in full swing in the fabulous Purpose built “The Rehearsal Hub” (for the performing arts) in Westgate Business Park. We have a great professional team behind this production Aileen Hogan, Liam Butler,Vicki Graham, Sarah Layman, Margerate Cullinane and Mary Coleman. In addition Dungarvan Town Pantomime is delighted to announce their new 2016 Panto will be “Little Red Riding Hood” auditions for this will be in June. Dungarvan Encore Stage Academy is now taking bookings for our Summer camps. For further information you are welcome to contact Aileen Hogan on 087 6299508 anytime. For up to date announcements keep your eyes on the papers and on facebook http://www.facebook.com/EncoreStage Academy

Pat Knightly as 'Bill Sykes.'

Martine Rogers as 'Widow Corney.' Michael Drummy as 'Fagin.'

Tom Rogers as 'Mr. Bumble.'

Thomas Rogers as 'The Artful Dodger.' Sarah Norris as 'Bet.'

Aislinn Celisse Morrissey as Mrs. Sowerberry. Edmund Spratt as 'Oliver.'

Dennis Butcher as 'Dr. Grimwig.'

John Walsh as 'Mr. Sowerberry.' Megan Marriot as 'Charlotte.' Carol Elstead Thomas as 'Nancy.'

German Choir who will be performing on Thursday night.

Deise Singers May Concert WITH spring in the air, a stretch in the evenings and the promise of a long hot summer, all is looking well for our May concert. The members are putting in hours of practice to attain the standards of our previous shows, this year will be no exception as we have a programme packed with musical treats!! Our musical director Fiona has a wonderful selection of songs chosen for our summer concert, some which are very interesting and some very well known pieces with the odd challenging piece thrown in to keep us alert!! The theme of our concert this year will be An Evening of Musical Magic with wonderful pieces from Verdi, Offenbach, Rodgers and Hammerstein to Leonard Cohen and Andrew Lloyd Webber, also including a few traditional and comical arrangements. This year we are very lucky to have with us a choir from Ulm in Germany who will be performing on Thursday night

only as part of their whistle stop tour of Ireland. Chor Levantate which is a mixed choir under the guidance of Manfred Miller will perform on their own and also with us on the night, we are looking forward to the amalgamation of choirs and the chosen piece should be wonderful!! The Friday night concert will be a mix of local talent to include Peter O’Sullivan, an upcoming talented pianist, Peter has played with us before and treated the audience to some wonderful renditions of popular music! Our own Daniel Kearney needs no introduction to his faithful followers, after his whirlwind performances with the Cross Border Orchestra he has come to our aid again, taking up the role of accompanist while Elaine is on maternity leave. Daniel will also be holding his audience in total rapture with some of his stunning works during our concerts which we are so looking forward to!!

CONGRATULATIONS Congrats to Curtain Call Productions on their recent major achievements during their ADCI Festival Tour, for a first time out they picked up 13 Awards and 12 Nominations in addition to their original 4 Awards and 6 Nominations!! Well done to Director Fidelma, cast and crew for what was a truly professional and fantastic production – you deserve every accolade you receive!! The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas was staged in the Town Hall Theatre last week to packed houses each night, and what a show – from start to finish, it was riveting! Under the direction of David Hennessy and musical direction of David Hayes and Shane Ffrench, it was a truly professional production. For the first time since the Musical and Choral Society, we had a live band which added immensely to the production, the lead solo’s and choral numbers. Congrats and well done to

Dungarvan Playhouse Musical Society for this, their inaugural production and looking forward to many more!! Our chosen charity this year is Hospice Homecare which is a wonderful and much needed service within our community, so we are hoping for a generous response from our audiences. The dates for our concert is Thursday and Friday, 19th and 20th May in the Town Hall Theatre at 8 pm, tickets are priced at €12 each to include our usual refreshments with delicious home bakes by our members at the interval. If you are interested in singing and would like to join a four part choir we will be recruiting again in September (ability to read music is not a requirement), please come along any Monday at 7.15 p.m. to the Deise Day Centre, Mitchell St., Dungarvan. Date for your Diary – Town Hall Theatre, Thursday 19th and Friday, 20th May at 8.00 p.m.

Drama Circle “IT was the hardest decision she had ever made, but she had to do it. She took the eight o’clock bus. “I hope they will understand” REM were on the radio playing EVERYBODY HURTS – was this a sign? She shook her head to clear her thoughts – there was no going back now.” That’s just one of the ten original monologues created at Drama Circle

when we last got together in March. With a nice mix of new and regular attendees, we passed a pleasant evening listening to monologues, poetry, short stories and conversation. Our next gathering is on Tuesday, 12th April, 8.00 p.m. to 9.30 p.m. upstairs in Merry’s thanks to Emilene. If you feel it is something you would like to try, please come along and join in, or listen. 087-2655645 after office hours or Facebook The Drama Circle

if you need to contact us. Congratulations to Curtain Call Productions on all of their wins recently on the Circuit. Congratulations also to Dungarvan Playhouse on their first production of “The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas”. With “Oliver”, The Musical coming up shortly thanks to Aileen Hogan’s hard work, there is certainly no shortage of Drama in Dungarvan, that’s for sure.

COUNTY NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Parish of Lismore and Ballysaggart THE four strengths of the early Church were: a fidelity to the teaching of the apostles; a sense of community, sharing and responsibility for one another; a common ritual, especially the Eucharist or the breaking of bread; personal daily prayers. As a community of disciples of the Crucified and Risen Lord our task is to appreciate in our lives how the teaching of the apostles may shape our sense of true justice. As a working philosophy in our parish the aim is to draw on the talents and faith of as many different people of Christian faith as possible. We believe and respect the priesthood of the laity. While the ordained ministry is necessary for an Eucharistic community the active life of the laity as makers of a parish ethos is vital for the future of parish community. The luxury of indifference and merely turning up on occasions by either ordained ministers or members of the laity is not really a worthwhile option. Our understanding of

the Eucharist is far from the ideal of ‘full conscious and active participation by present. Where and when people place themselves in the church building indicate the understanding of what they are about to engage in. No one can do our praying for us. I can pray for others and in Christian charity it is both privilege and duty.There are so many good resources close to us, be it in the electronic media, books, the Word of God’. Remember everything we believe stands on the fact of the Resurrection of the Crucified Jesus. Easter is all. MASS TIMETABLE Weekday Mass at 10.00 a.m. Saturday, 9th April - Vigil Mass in Lismore at 6.15 p.m. Sunday, 10th April Morning Mass in Ballysaggart at 9.30 a.m. Sunday Mass in Lismore at 11.00 a.m. PRO(E) Pastoral Council Parish Radio Link 103.9FM

Lismore Dramatic Society “RISING 1916” A CENTENARY COMMEMORATION PERFORMANCE As part of its spring programme Lismore Dramatic Society will bring to the Courthouse Theatre stage a 1916 Centenary Commemoration musical and theatrical performance entitled “Rising 1916”. It will be a mixture of music, song, dance and story in the company of The Booley House Singers, The Story of the Rising by James Lenane, The Amy Morrissey School of Dancing, Lismore Scór Na nÓg group including the County Champions in Léiriú and also a Lismore Dramatic Society ensemble which will feature music and drama. This is a night not to be missed. The “Rising 1916” a Centenary Commemoration Performance will take place on Saturday, 23rd April, at 8.00 p.m. in the Courthouse Theatre, Lismore. Tickets €10 Booking at Lismore Heritage Centre on 058 54975. More details next week.

Tallow Grotto Clean-up VOLUNTEERS NEEDED We are at present looking for volunteers, to help with a major clean up/refurbishment of our beautiful grotto here in Tallow. This wonderful structure a focal point in the town was constructed in the Marian year 1954, dedicated to Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception and is a magnificent tribute to the people who built it. At present it is in urgent need of a face lift and it is hoped in the coming weeks that it will be power washed and painted. This is a big task and volunteers are needed. It is planned once the clean-up is complete to have an open air rosary in the Summer at the Grotto. This is an opportunity for anyone with a little spare time to give it to this well deserving project, enjoy each other’s company, and have a bit of fun in the process. A date for commencement will be announced next week. So if you can spare a few hours please contact Tom Doyle who is co-ordinating this project on 087-9774643.

Group of Lismore Tidy Towns members on site at the Ice Houses on the Ballyduff Road at Ballyin.

Lismore Tidy Towns THANKS to the businesses in Lismore town who supported the annual Easter Egg Draw by selling lines and to all the people who bought lines. The money raised is used to pay the Lismore Tidy Towns annual public liability insurance. Here are the list of sellers and winners: Credit Union (Seller) – Emily Daynes O'Callaghan, Church St., Lismore (Winner). Derek Dowd's Fruit & Veg. (Seller) - Bridie Barry, Devonshire Cottages, Lismore (Winner). Eamonn's Place (Seller) James O'Flynn, Castle Lodge, Lismore (Winner). Houlihan's Service Station (Seller) - Pat Flynn, ex Hardware, Ballyduff (Winner). McCarthy's Wine Vaults (Seller) - Maura Barry, Glencairn, Lismore (Winner). McGrath's Butchers (Seller) - Michael McGrath Jnr. Owbeg, Lismore (Winner). Roche's Centra Supermarket (Seller) - Mia Landers, Chapel Street, Lismore (Winner). Rose's West End Bar (Seller) - Dylan Feeney, Ballysaggart, Lismore (Winner). The working team met again early on Wednesday morning last and split up into different groups with the help of our two CES workers who work together on Wednesdays to do plant-

ing in different parts of the town. Four small trees were planted in the Millennium Park. Thorny ground cover roses were planted at the layby on the Tallow Road to fill in the gap where the lavender plants were stolen from early this year. Tree saplings received as part of National Tree week were planted in the Strand area. As well as helping us on our work morning the CES workers did a great job tidying up the low stone wall at the entrance to the Inches, the grass verge there and also carried out weed-

ing under the Photina hedge at the Chapel Street side of Lios an Oir. It is great to see the work progressing at the site of the two Ice Houses on the Ballyduff Road at Ballyin. Trees were cut down in the past week and stumps removed which will make the job of ground clearing slightly easier. Thanks to all involved with the work. In the past week the Tidy Towns Awards signage in the Millennium Park as well as the Gold Medal Award roadside signage were updated by Jacinta Uniacke, Munster Signs, Dungarvan,

A view of one of the two Ice House as clearing work progresses.

our thanks to her. ECO TIP OF THE WEEK Think of Biodiversity plant for bees: Busy working all day bees collect nectar and pollen from bee friendly plants. To have a bee friendly garden you don't have to have a meadow of wild flowers.There are lots of ways that you can attract bees into your garden that are simple, affordable and great for the environment. For a bee friendly garden diversity is most important. Bees are attracted to a garden that has a range of dif-

ferent flowers, it is good to have variation in terms of flower colour, scents, shapes and flowering times. It is easy to find plants that have a second use in the garden. Everything from decorative flowers to herbs and even blossoms on trees can attract bees and other pollinating insects to your garden. Here are a list of bee friendly plants: Roses, Foxgloves, Lavender, Cosmos, Marigolds, Cherry Blossom, Borage, Dahlias, Rosemary, Poppies, Thyme, Mint.

COUNTY NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Cappoquin Community Centre CAPPOQUIN GOES COUNTRY We are now days away from one of our biggest concerts ever. Tickets are selling well with interest in this concert huge. Just imagine this line up of stars Louise Morrissey Paddy O’Brien, Kathy Durkan, Marty Daniels, John Hogan, Brendan Quinn, Gloria, Stephen Stokes, Gary Gamble all backed by the sweet sound of the Ryan Turner Band from Donegal. Saturday April 9th is the date for the show. Tickets available from Feerick’s Pharmacy, Houlihan’s Filling Stations Lismore, Noel Devereux Mans Shop Dungarvan, from the Community Centre office (058) 52746 or from Anthony Prendergast (087) 7657769 get them fast and don’t be disappointed COMMUNITY CENTRE LOTTO Lotto - 4th April, 2016 - Jackpot €10,300. Numbers drawn 1, 15, 19 and 21. No winner. Consolation Prizewinners: Michael Hennebry, Shanbally; Mary Foley, Mill Street; Tom O’Feerick, Canty, Cappagh; Phyllis Killigrew, Chapel Road, Modeligo; Liam O’Donnell, Bellville and Catherine Sweeney Lackenrae. Next week’s jackpot €10,400. Lotto - 11th April 2016 - Jackpot €10,400. Numbers drawn 3, 11, 14 and 19. No winner. Consolation Prize winners: Kathleen Coleman, Monalour, Lismore; M. M. Hennessey, Dromana; Sheila Curtin, Ballyhane; Sheila Denn, Baunfaun; Adam and Dean Whelan, Shanbally. Next week’s jackpot €10,500. Remember anyone looking to buy our Lotto tickets, call to any of the local shops in Cappoquin, the Community Centre, Miriam

Coughlan or Carmel Prendergast will look after you. If you wish you can also buy the popular annual tickets, if you’re not in you can’t win! CAPPOQUIN CHILDCARE ECCE Parents take note - enrolments are now being taken for the E.C.C.E.Year 1 and Year 2. Children from 3 years will be entitled to 2 free years from September 2016. For further information, contact Maria or Kerry on (058) 52746. DATES FOR THE DIARY Our annual Sponsored Walk will take place on the morning of Saturday April 9th. Children, Parents and of course Grandparents are most welcome to attend. We will have a nature walk around delightful Glenshelane and back to the Community Centre for refreshments & a good chat. LADIES EXERCISE CLASSES The Ladies Exercise Classes with the excellent Paul Murray are up and running with the trainer Paul putting the girls through their paces. Paul can cater for everyone needs and levels of fitness in the one hour classes. Don’t be shy and give a go you won’t regret it with a nice mixture of exercise in the hall and gym. Classes start at 10.30 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. every Monday and Thursday morning. GYM Fancy doing your training session before you go to Work/School or College well now you can as our ultra-modern Gym will be open at 7.00 a.m. Our Gym is equipped with Irelands most ultra-modern equipment which can cater from all Cardiovascular equipment to all Resistance training machines and lose 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. CIRCUIT TRAINING Like to improve Strength and Power, Core stability and General Fitness while also decreasing body fat then Circuit training maybe for you. You do not have to be an athlete to train like one. Circuit training is a total body training system which involves high volume (repetitions), low resistance (weights) workout with short rest intervals. Every single session is varied and sessions can be regressed/progressed to any level of fitness. Conor (Fully accredited Strength and Conditioning Coach) runs this popular class every Tuesday and Thursday at 7 and can be contacted at 0871247025. WEEKLY EVENTS IN HALL Gym opening times are 7.00 a.m. to 10.00 p.m. from February, 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 Pilate's, Railway Soccer and Blackwater AC every Monday evenings Circuit Training Tuesday & Thursday nights. Quiddlers Mother & Toddler group and Ladies Exercise Classes 10.30 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. with Paul Murray Thursday morning. Gymnastics every Friday, Supervised Study with Evan McGrath every Saturday WATERFORD WEXFORD ETB Just a reminder anyone interested in doing a wide range of courses contact Edel Walsh first floor of the Community Centre.

SPRING CLEAN-UP APRIL 9th 11.00 a.m. TO 1.00 p.m. MARKET SQUARE Please come along on Saturday, April 9th, from 11.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. - an invitation to all to help in the annual Spring Clean-up. Bags, gloves,

pickers etc will be provided at the Square. Come along and bring everyone in the family for a couple of hours – it is a great way to make a big difference to the town and surrounding areas in a short space of time. If you decide that you would prefer

to do the roads or a clean-up in your area, call into Mary at BT Lincolns for a picker and bags. Mary can fill you in on details relating to the Council collecting all of the filled rubbish bags. Here’s hoping for sunshine next weekend, and a big attendance.

Graves/Regan Monument Unveiling ON Sunday, 17th April at 3.00 p.m., Cumann Stair & Oidhreacht Ghaeltacht na nDéise will unveil a monument in Helvick, An Rinn in memory of the two Ring men who were awarded medals for their part in the 1916 Rising. Johnny

Graves and Willie Regan were both born and raised in An Rinn, and in later years went to work in Domhnall Ua Buachalla’s Shop in Maynooth. It was from Maynooth in 1916 that they along with 13 others marched to the G.P.O. to raise

arms for Irish Freedom. We will assemble at Murray’s Pub Helvick at 2.30 p.m. on Sunday, 17th April. We will march from here to the monument, led by the Carrick an Suir Pipe Band, and with members of the Citizen Army and Cummann na mBan reenactment groups. The unveiling will be chaired by Sinead Breathnach, a gran-niece of Willie Regan and other members of the Graves and Regan families will be in attendance. Wreaths will be laid by representatives of both families and by a member of the Cumann Stair & Oidhreachta Gaeltahct na nDéise. Newly elected TD David Cullinane, SF will also be in attendance and say a few words. Teas and entertainment will be available in Murray’s Pub after the unveiling.

Danta ’s Ranta A WONDERFUL night was had by all last Wednesday night in the Gallery of Joan Clancy of An Rinn. From the very very young to the not so young, not only was it a night for Art but also the debut of local ladies choir, Danta 's Ranta.We sang a few songs and the crowd joined in, we really enjoyed the night and we would like to extend a special Go raibh maith agat to our wonderful host. We meet every Monday night in the small side of Tigh Mooney, An Rinn, where Michael and Liam look after us with refreshments, a warm welcome and an even warmer fire, it's all we can do to leave it to go home! New members always welcome, follow us on Facebook or ring us on 0879082486 or 085-2801937.

Whelans Bar – Stradbally Ladies GAA Football Club Fundraiser: Whelan’s Bar raised €610 from Easter Bunny Fun Run. Joe Curran, Manager of the Football Club, thanked Whelan’s Bar and its clientel for organising the Easter Bunny Run and tidy sum raised on the day. Pictured are Caroline Whelan presenting the cheque (€610) to Stradbally Ladies GAA members Tracy Fennell and Emy Whelan. [Richard Cutbill]

Modeligo TROCAIRE BOXES If you haven’t done so already please hand in your Lenten Trócaire Boxes to the Sacristry or at Mass times, all monies donated will go straight to the Bishop’s Lenten Appeal. Also many thanks to the people of both Parishes who contributed so generously to our annual Easter Collection. And if you have forgotten it's still not too late to support your Diocese. Each household should have received a contribution envelope for the Easter Dues. PARISH CLEAN-UP You'd hardly know the place now since last Monday night’s great community clean-up. Once

again great thanks due to those who turned out to gather up the obnoxities. Now, to the small but diligent crew that turned up to play their part on what was a dirty enough evening: lads: I know that it won't put a pound in your pockets: but it shows that there is still a great group of eagerbeaver volunteers in Modeligo! Thanks, also, to the County Council who supplied the collection sticks and bags for the occasion, and also for promptly removing the filled sacks on the following day. MINI LOTTO Our ticket sales continue to hold their own. Last Saturday nght we had over 350 units processed at the

count centre, and we can put that down to our marvellous salespersons who deliver a fine tranche of sales week-in week-out, and, of course, to our regular ticket-purchasers. For example, only lately I met two ladies who hadn't missed purchasing their weekly Modeligo Mini Lotto ticket since 1995. Last week's jackpot was not won, mar sin don tseachtain seo chughainn, beidh €1,000 sa phota óir. The numbers drawn were 11, 22 & 30. 4 X €25 lucky dip winners as follows: Seamus Troy, Clashmore; Siobhán Troy, Graiguemore; Denis Walsh, Lickey Bridge and David McGrath, Clashmore.

Kilmacthomas DEISE GREENWAY The Deise Greenway will hold an Information Evening in the Rainbow Community Hall on Monday, 18th April at 7.30 p.m. Everyone invited to learn more about this wonderful facility that is becoming a reality in our countryside. CAR BOOT SALE The date for the April Car Boot Sale is Sunday 24th, put it in your diary. Tables €10 each, book now. CONFIRMATION Confirmation takes place this year in Newtown Parish Church on Friday, 6th May at 11.00 a.m. HOLY COMMUNION First Holy Communion takes place in Kill Church on Saturday, 7th May at 11.00 a.m., in

Kilmacthomas Church on Saturday, 14th May at 11.00 a.m. and in Newtown Church on Saturday, 21st May at 11.00 a.m. LOTTO DRAW Results of the Kilmacthomas AFC Lotto draw for Saturday, 2nd April. Letters drawn were D, L, O and W. No jackpot winner. Five winners of €20 each to Natlie Brown, Rathmeaden; Robbie Whelan, c/o PPI; Ger Kirwan, Clonea; Biddy Cleary, Riverview and Aime Moloney, St. Annes Terrace, Kilmac. Next week’s jackpot €950. STRADBALLY WHIST A good evening was had by all on Friday, 1st April. The overall prize was won by Maria Dunphy and the winner of the 1st Raffle

prize was Joan Cashin. The next meeting is on Friday, 15th April, at the 'Barron Hall' Stradbally. Open 7.30 p.m. for 8.00 p.m. start. Just €5 for the evening with tea and cakes. There are 11 prizes to be won in the whist, overall winner, best ladies score, best gents score and, of course, the lowest points gained and many more.The raffle is €1 a ticket with lovely prizes. Visitors are very welcome and we see folks who come to the area on holiday. So come along and see what we are about. We teach whist between 7.30 p.m. and the start of the main game and can guarantee that by then you will be playing (with the assistance of a member). See you there!

COUNTY NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Villierstown JACK THE JOKER Jack the Joker draw took place in An Cruiscín Lán on Saturday night last and €50 was won by Mary McCann with Card Number 20. Congratulations Mary. Next week’s Jackpot is for €600. Remember if you are not in … you can’t win. This is a joint community fundraiser and tickets can be bought locally. WOODLAND LADYBIRDS, GUIDES & BROWNIES Villierstown local branch of the Irish Girl Guides, Ladybirds, Brownies & Guides meet every Thursday in Villierstown. Please contact any of the Leaders if your daughter interested in joining. WOODLAND LADYBIRDS, GUIDES & BROWNIES We are seeking new leaders for anyone interested. Due to work commitments leaders are unable to make every evening. Adult leaders and helpers. Full training and uniform provided. (As will you please run this one every week till further notice thanks). IRISH CANCER SOCIETY FUNDRAISER Saturday, 9th April, at 11.30 a.m. Come and join us and bring a friend for a

coffee morning and bring and buy cake sale in Villierstown Craft rooms, Main Street, Villierstown (next door to the shop), in aid of the Irish Cancer Society. Each year we have this fundraiser and are always amazed by people’s generosity. “Cancer affects all of us, whether you’re a daughter, mother, father, brother sister, friend, co-worker, Doctor, or patient.” – Jennifer Aniston. MEN – PLEASE NOTE A free Men’s Health awareness and information event is taking place on Thursday, 7th April, in the Community Development Resource Centre in Catherine St.,Youghal, from 11.00 a.m. – 3.00 p.m. • Free health checks • Free lunch • All welcome Contact: 024-91900 DROMANA HOUSE AFTERNOON Enjoy a talk, afternoon tea and a tour of the gardens on Saturday, 30th April, at 2.30 p.m. Cost is €30 and booking is essential. Contact: 086-8186305. CONGRATULATIONS Congratulations to a local business “The Little Milk Company” in Ballinameela for another outstanding win in the Salon du Fromage in Paris.

The Fairies Are Back . . .

From a magical mystery land far away, the Fairies have returned for the summer to play. To Villierstown Quay where it all began, it was always part of the original plan. They are coming back one by one, leaving behind their winter sun. The King has arrived with his usual flair, and ever bought a new garden chair! Lots of their friends are moving in fast, choosing a tree as they did in the past. There is a magical lane off a magical quay, where Fairies and Elves live happy and free. When you visit their home remember to shout, Hello, hello, it’s me, I’m about…. They might come out and invite you to tea, if not this time, next time, who knows, maybe….

Winners were selected from 72 entries from 100 producers. Way to go guys. LOST Lost somewhere in Villierstown, a prescription varifocal pair of Prada sunglasses. A black frame in a black case. Contact: 0877763751. CHURCH GATE COLLECTION The Aglish / Ballinameela / Mount Stuart Lourdes Fundraising Committee are holding their Annual Church Gate Collection on the 9th and 10th April, 2016. Your support for this local cause would be very much appreciated. MAIN SPONSOR LIDL 4th Aglish Fun Run / Walk took place on Easter Monday in brilliant sunshine. The Gods smiled on us again this year with the weather. Over 450 adults and children and a few dogs took to the roads of Aglish. Some ran, some walked and some crawled 5 or 10k around Bleech in aid of the Children's Hospital, Crumlin.With over 70 spot prizes on offer and loads of food, everyone went home happy. This fundraising event would not be possible without our sponsors, too many to mention here. A full list appears on our Facebook page. Please support our sponsors whenever you can. I would like to thank everyone that helped out on the day, stewards, catering staff, Civil Defence, Conor and Jamie on traffic control, David and James on the cameras, ladies on registration and on ticket duty, all who helped with food. Thanks to West Waterford AC for use of the van and the clock and Aglish Community Hall for use of their premises. If I omitted anybody from the list, I apologise. To the people who took sponsorship cards and to members of Aglish Fit4Life who contributed €2 every night over the Winter months, thanks very much.To all the people that travelled to Aglish to take part, thanks a million. Hundreds of photographs up on DC Images and West Waterford AC Facebook site of the Run. Also a small promotional video on site as well. As I write these notes we are approaching €5,000.00 in contributions for Children's Hospital, Crumlin. Final total will be up on Facebook early next week. Finally, to the local papers and local correspondents, thanks for all the publicity. DEISE DAY Punchestown, Saturday,

30th April. Fundraiser in aid of Waterford GAA. Tickets on Sale Now. Contact:- 086-0777617. Deiseday15secretary@yaho o.com LOCAL INTEREST FILM Who is Dervla Murphy? The film about her life is being shown at SGC, Dungarvan, from the 23rd April for 6 nights. Dervla Murphy is the well-known, world renowned travel writer and daredevil from Waterford. SET DANCING CLASSES Set Dancing Classes in Villierstown, Monday, Primary school boys and girls 5.30 p.m. Teenagers 6.30 p.m. Adults,Wednesday at 7.30 p.m. €5 per class. FIT DANCE EXERCISE CLASSES Fun Fit Dance Classes for the Busy Women – Come to the funeral of your love handles, muffin top and any excess calories at the most fun exercise classes! Optional 1.5kg weights for some of the routines. For all ages and abilities! Every Tuesday in Villierstown Church 7-8 p.m., €5 per person. Starting in Aglish Community Hall on Thursday, 4th February, then every Thursday after that 7–8 p.m., €5 per person! Guaranteed to leave feeling fabulous both physically and mentally! No prebooking necessary, just show up – it's that simple! VECP ROOMS If you are looking to hold a small party, a meeting, a course, music lessons, a get together for a reunion. The VECP room in Villierstown is available for bookings. Situated beside the Villierstown shop which has home-made cakes and dinners, who also take special orders if needed. Please contact 0876635465.Thank you. COMMUNITY ALERT TEXT See or hear anything out of place in the village … Text: 087-3538347. SAFE TALK If you need someone to talk to, someone to listen to you or just someone.We are very lucky in Villierstown to have a trained “Safe Talk Counsellor”. Contact Carol:- 087-6635465. I NEED YOUR HELP If I don’t know it’s happening, I can’t put it in. Please use the email address below. If anyone has anything they would like included in these notes just let me know. Local news makes this section interesting for everyone. All local news very welcome. villierstownnews@yahoo.ie

Jack, Ava and Luke Nugent pictured at the annual Ballinamult Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt in aid of Barnardos. The local event was one of 25 community events taking place across Ireland this Easter in support of Barnardos. People can still support Barnardos by texting ‘BARNARDOS’ to 50300 to donate €4* to a very worthy cause! *100% of your donation goes to Barnardos across most network operators. Some operators apply VAT which means that a minimum of €3.25 will go to Barnardos. Service Provider: LIKECHARITY. Helpline: 0766805278. [Leo Murphy]

Nótaí Craobh na Gaeltachta de chuid Chomhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann BEIDH an chéad seisiún míosúil eile de chuid Chraobh Ghaeltacht na nDéise, Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann ar siúl ar an Domhnach seo chugainn, an 10 Aibreán in Halla Pobail na Rinne óna 3.00–5.00 i.n. Beidh fáilte roimh cheoltóirí agus amhránaithe óga teacht agus páirt a ghlacadh sa seisiún. Chomh maith leis an seisiún, beimid ag clárú pháistí do Fhleadh Cheoil an Chontae. Beidh foirmeacha chlárúcháin ar fáil d’éinne gur mian leo cur isteach ar chomórtaisí na Fleidhe, agus tá súil againn go nglacfaidh anchuid d’ár gceoltóirí agus amhránaithe óga páirt sa bhFleadh Cheoil i mbliana. Beidh Fleadh Cheoil na nDéise ar siúl in Halla & Scoil Naomh Mhichíl, An Baile Dubh ón 20-22 Bealtaine 2016. Beidh an seisiún an Domhnach seo chugainn ar an gceann deireannach míosúil a bheidh againn roimh an tsamhraidh, mar go bhfuil sé i gceist againn coirmcheoil speisialta a eagrú i mí Bealtaine dóibh siúd a bheidh ag glacadh páirte sa bhFleadh Cheoil. Sonraí le teacht.

Reachtáileann Craobh Ghaeltacht na nDéise seisiúin míosúla, ag malartú idir An Sean-Phobal agus An Rinn gach dara mí, agus bíonn fáilte roimh cheoltóirí óga, bíodh siad ina mball nó gan a bheith ina mball. Má tá a thuilleadh eolais uait, is féidir teagmháil a dhéanamh le Rúnaí Chraobh Ghaeltacht na nDéise CCÉ, Yvonne Uí Chadhain ar (087) 4101718. GAELTACHT NA nDÉISE BRANCH OF COMHALTAS CEOLTÓIRÍ ÉIREANN The next monthly gathering of the Gaeltacht branch of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann will take place from 3-5 p.m. on Sunday next, 10th April, in Halla Pobail na Rinne, An Rinn. As usual, young musicians and singers are invited to come along to take part in the session, both members of the branch and anyone else who would like to join in. As well as the music and singing session for the children, we will also be taking registrations for the County Fleadh Cheoil.

Registration forms will be available for anyone wishing to register and we hope that many of our young musicians and singers will take part in this year’s Fleadh Cheoil, which takes place in St. Michael’s Hall & School, Ballyduff, from the 20th–22nd May, 2016. Next Sunday’s session will be our last monthly session before the summer break, as we plan to organise a concert in May for all those competing in the County Fleadh Cheoil. Details to follow. Admission fees on Sunday next are as follows: Members: €2 per adult, €1 per child and €4 for a family. Non-members: €3 per adult, €2 per child and €6 for a family. Craobh Ghaeltacht na nDéise CCÉ organises sessions on the second Sunday of every month, alternating between An Sean Phobal and An Rinn every second month.Young musicians are welcome, whether branch members or not. For further information you can contact the Secretary of Craobh Ghaeltacht na nDéise CCÉ, Yvonne Uí Chadhain on (087) 4101718.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

COUNTY NEWS

The advanced musician group from the Dungarvan School of Trad entertaining the large audience in Lawlor's Hotel after the St. Patrick’s Day Parade recently.

St. Patrick’s Day Celebrations PARENTS, teachers, students and friends of the School enjoyed a great celebration of our national feastday in Lawlor's Hotel after the recent St Patrick's Day parade. Our students, many of whom had also taken part in the parade, threw off their coats and jackets and took to the stage for a 2-hour performance to mark the occasion. Whistles, fiddles, banjos, concertinas, guitar, bodhrán, accordians and mandolins were all to the fore as little fingers enthusiastically played their practised partypieces to much applause. The performances from the talented intermediate and senior groups attracted much admiration and certainly showcased the high standard of teaching available to our students. Many thanks to all who helped with the preparations for this lovely event, and also to all those who helped out on the day itself. SPRING/SUMMER TERM CLASSES The School has now re-opened for the Spring / Summer term which will run through into June. For further information on classes, please contact Alice on 087-1258659 or Helena on 087-6181681.

Owen Callaghan and David Nyhan.

Helena Burke (Dungarvan School of Trad) with students Seán Nyhan, Kate Callaghan, Louise O'Neill and Abby Fitzpatrick on stage during the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in Lawlor's Hotel. Twin sisters Chloe and Charlene O'Dwyer performing at the Dungarvan School of Trad's concert on St. Patrick's Day.

A group of young musicians from the Dungarvan School of Trad enjoying the St. Patrick’s Day celebrations in Lawlor's Hotel after the parade.

Clara Mannion (School Concertina Teacher) with young whistle player, Saidhbh Curran.

Annual Spring Clean - Sunday, 9th April THE eighth Annual Spring Clean for the Nire / Ballymacarbry / Kilmanahan / Kilmacomma area is scheduled to take place this coming week end on Saturday, 9th April, between the hours of 9.00 a.m. and 12 noon. Coordinator of the event is local councillor Michael J. O’Ryan who commenced the idea in 2009 upon seeking election to the local authority and has been an active campaigner on litter prevention in the intervening years. He goes on to state that “even though the problem is becoming bigger,

the event too has also become bigger.” “It is not beyond the bounds of possibility to see up to 100 people on the morning helping out in some way or other. It’s a real community effort.” The event is currently held in conjunction with Ballymacarbry Tidy Towns, Waterford City and County Council and An Taisce Spring Clean. “Littering is an increasing and worrying development in Ireland and its trails are to be seen on many a regional and national road in our scenic vicinity.”

People are asked to assemble at event headquarters, Ballymacarbry Community Centre from 8:30 a.m. Saturday and asked to give a few hours of their time to help the local community and the local environment. The event will try to cover a vast area along the R671 into the Finger Post at Kilmacomma (if numbers permit) also local roads off this main / Clonmel Dungarvan Road into the picturesque Nire Valley. O’Ryan states that the best way to get your area

covered is to come along and encourage others to do so. Motorists are asked to proceed with caution during the event as many over 16 will be walking the road in an effort to tidy up after people who litter. Interested people are asked to dress adequately for the morning and bring along litter picks and hi-vis vests if at all possible. Refreshments will be served at Ballymacarbry Community Centre afterward in what has now become a social event for all those assembled.

COUNTY NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Ballymacarbry commemorates 1916 and its heroes/heroines of that era AS the famous James Connolly Ballad goes,“A great crowd had gathered…” and so it had on Easter Monday last, March 28th at the Cross in Ballymacarbry. They were in waiting in line to join the Ballymacarbry/Nire 1916 Committee who were commencing at Ryan’s Barn, Curtiswood in memory not only of the leaders of the Easter Rising, but also of our own locals, both men and women who were involved in the fight for Irish freedom. Although they did not die for the cause, as was said in the oration, they “ate, slept and lived for Ireland”. It was at this barn in Curtiswood that those locals met, shortly after the executions to get their own plans in action. The Tricolour led the way as the committee of about 25, mostly descendants of those local patriots, marched proudly down Curtiswood Boreen to meet the huge crowd of people that had gathered on this special occasion. Flag bearers proudly carried the Na Fianna Flag, the flag of the Four Provinces, the Plough and the Stars, the Cumann na mBan flag, and also the local Fourmilewater Hurling and Nire Football club flags. Two great-grandchildren of those men who set up the company of Volunteers way back also carried the Committee’s banner. It was a very proud day and the music of the piper and drummer added immensely to the occasion. Most of the committee dressed in period costume, which also added to the day. On reaching the main road, where the local Gardaí and stewards had done a fine job as regards a traffic control, the parade lined up between the two pubs.The piper played two tunes outside Melody’s lounge,

which in bygone days was ‘the Courthouse’ of the Barony of Glenheiry. Subsequently, the huge crowd (many wearing their ancestors medals) lined up behind the group and marched en masse to the local community centre to the beat of the drum and some lovely music from the piper. Once again, the flag bearers and committee, got into position and our local Councillor, Cllr M J O’Ryan (whose grandfather Michael O’Ryan was elected Captain of the local company in Curtiswood) welcomed everybody and gave a synopsis of events in Dublin on this weekend, 100 years ago. The Tricolour was then raised by Tommy O’Keeffe, a nephew of Henry O’Keeffe, (adjutant and later Captain) involved in the local group 100 years ago. Next on the agenda was the reading of the Proclamation by Tom Walsh, whose grandfather ‘Big-Pat’ was ViceCommandant of the Ballymacarbry K Company in 1917. David Shanahan of Geneposter.com, Clonmel said a few words pertaining to the weekend and particularly to the fact that the Tricolour had been raised at the five local graveyards and at the monument to the Republican cottage at the Steel Bridge and that blessed wreaths had also been taken to them after mass on Easter Sunday. His words were followed by the Last Post (on trumpet) and subsequently by a minute’s silence for those who fought for Irish freedom in every generation. A decade of the Rosary was recited ‘as Gaeilge’ by committee member Orla O’Ryan. Once the formalities were over, Michael J went on to give a brief local history of that time. This he put together

Local women representing Cumann na mBan - Helena Walsh Burke, Jo Phelan, Orla O'Ryan, Siobhan Halpin Looney, Siobhan O'Ryan Murphy, Geraldine O'Ryan Long and Monika and James O'Brien. [Caroline Lafford] based on the witness statements of the three locals, Henry O’Keeffe, Ballymacarbry (granduncle to Richard O’Keeffe, St Martin’s Place) Paddy Ryan, Curtiswood (grandfather of Pat and Michael Ryan, Curtiswood) and Michael Desmond, Intelligence Officer and Creamery Manager – father to Dan Desmond. These words gave us an insight into the atmosphere of the time, having to go on the run, the burning of Lord Ashtown’s Great House and also the burning of barracks in the vicinity. Everybody listened attentively as they recognised the family

Gráinne Power and Tommy Power carrying the group's banner and commemorating their Great [Caroline Lafford] Grandfathers - Capt. Michael O'Ryan and Q. M. Ned Phelan.

names of all of the men and women. How fitting it was also to remember that famous meeting in a Cottage in Knockanaffrin, from 25-27th March 1923, actually 93 years ago almost to the day. The monument at the Steel Bridge will in fact be officially opened at a function later this year. With part one complete, next was the musical section and all present went into the Centre to hear the Banna Ceoil from the local National School perform some musical pieces. The children and their mentors Mrs Ann Kelly and Ms Niamh Fenton were outstanding. While many parents would have often heard the band before, most of the public were ‘in awe’ of the performance. One could hear a pin drop as Ciara Long (5th class) gave a

tear jerking rendition of the famous ballad ‘Grace’. Pat Melody too added immensely to the occasion when he sang Fr. Bracken’s song ‘April 1916’. Many members of Fr. Bracken’s band got great pleasure from his performance and I’m sure that the same Fr Bracken is proudly looking down on the area, delighted to see that music, song and dance is so alive and thriving here in the Ballymacarbry / Nire area. That concluded the official duties of the day and refreshments were served as the public were free to browse and see some of the projects from the local school completed by all classes in advance of their Proclamation Day on March 16th. Brendan and Monika O’Brien had a first-class display of memorabilia and artefacts

Main group marching to Community Centre.

from that time, such as guns, knives, a mannequin of Michael Collins etc. Paddy Phelan, Shanballyanne (son of Ned Phelan Quarter Master of the local Batallion) had some pictures and other items of local interest. David Shanahan, Committee member and owner of Geneposter had items on display and for sale, the Proclamation, pictures of the First Dáil, all fully customisible and finally the O’Ryan’s had some information and pictures on Captain and later Cllr Michael O’Ryan, and his wife Mary Condon and her sister Brigid Condon. Brigid, as far as we know, was the only West Waterford member of Cumann na mBan to be interned. She spent from January to December of 1923 in Clonmel, Kilmainham and the North

Dublin Union jails. They also had some information on a neighbour and distant cousin Fr Paddy Condon, who actually accompanied Liam Lynch on his journeys in and around the Nire Valley. It has to be said that the day was a massive success, aided by the brilliant sunshine, the great crowd and of course the organising committee. As the MC said in his speech, this did not happen overnight, rather it took about 10 weeks of meetings and planning. However, all fell into place and a great day was had. There will more than likely be a dvd of the day’s events on sale shortly. Should you have any further queries, please contact 0872701944 or orlaoryan@ yahoo.com

[Caroline Lafford]

COUNTY NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Nótaí na Gaeltachta le Comhlucht Forbartha na nDéise FÉILE BIA IARTHAR PHORT LÁIRGE Beidh an naoú féile bliantúil d’Fhéile Bia Iarthar Phort Láirge ar siúl thar an 15ú go dtí an 17ú Aibreán 2016. Sé ‘An Chistin ag Athrú’ mar théama acu i mbliana. Mar is gnáth, beidh roinnt imeachtaí Gaeilge ar siúl i rith na féile. Beidh Cócaireacht le Chéile ar siúl i Meánscoil San Nioclás, An Rinn Dé Sathairn 16ú. Ceardlann dhá uair a chloig atá ann agus beidh dhá ceann ar siúl i rith an lae, ceann ar maidin ag 10 r.n. agus ceann eile ag 2:30 i.n. Deis cócaireachta do pháistí agus tuismitheoirí le chéile. Beidh Fiona Ní Mhuirithe againn mar múinteoir.Tá €20 ar na ticéid (tuismitheoir agus beirt páiste) agus is féidir iad a fháil anois ag www.westwaterfordfestivleoffood.com. Beidh Bus Bia na Gaeltachta ag teacht go dtí Gaeltacht na nDéise, turas dhá uair a bheas ann, ag fágaint ag 10 r.n. Beidh Grúdlann Dún Garbhán, Feirm Oisrí Uí Arta, Dánlann Joan Clancy agus Sólás na Mara ar an gclár. Beidh seans agat Gourmet na Gaeltachta a bhlaiseadh le beoir, oisrí, feamainn agus lón beag thíos i gceann Heilbhic. Ticéid ar fáil anois ar €25 an duine. Beidh Teacht le Chéile Cois Cé do theaghlaigh atá ag iarraidh taithneamh a bhaint as an bhFéile le chéile trí Ghaeilge. Beidh an grúpa seo ag bualadh le chéile ag an gCaisleán ag 2 i.n. ar an Satharn. Beidh Rás na Lachan ar mhaithe leis an RNLI ar siúl ag 3i.n. ar an Satharn ón Droichead. Tar agus tacaigh leo agus beidh seans agat duais iontach a fháil. The West Waterford Food Festival will be taking place from April 15-17. As usual, there will be several events held in Irish. On Saturday the 16th of April, there will be Cócaireacht le Chéile in Meánscoil San Nioclás from 10-12 and from 2:30-4:30, tickets are on sale now for €20 (parent and two kids). Bus Bia na Gaeltachta will be leaving Dungarvan at 10 am and coming out to Gaeltacht na nDéise, on the way you will stop at the Dungarvan Brewery, Hartys Oyster Farm, Joan Clancy Gallery and Sólás na Mara in Heilbhic. Teach le Chéile Cois Cé will be meeting at 2 pm at the Castle for families who want to enjoy the festival together in Irish. At 3 pm the RNLI Duck Race will be held from the bridge. Support the RNLI and be in with a chance to win a lovely prize. NÓTAÍ CRAOBH NA GAELTACHTA DE CHUID CHOMHALTAS CEOLTÓIRÍ ÉIREANN Beidh an chéad seisiún míosúil eile de chuid Chraobh Ghaeltacht na nDéise, Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann ar siúl ar an Domhnach seo chugainn, an 10 Aibreán in Halla Pobail na Rinne óna 3.00-5.00i.n.

Beidh fáilte roimh cheoltóirí agus amhránaithe óga teacht agus páirt a ghlacadh sa seisiún. Chomh maith leis an seisiún, beimid ag clárú pháistí do Fhleadh Cheoil an Chontae. Beidh foirmeacha chlárúcháin ar fáil d’éinne gur mian leo cur isteach ar chomórtais na Fleidhe, agus tá súil againn go nglacfaidh anchuid d’ár gceoltóirí agus amhránaithe óga páirt sa bhFleadh Cheoil i mbliana. Beidh Fleadh Cheoil na nDéise ar siúl in Halla & Scoil Naomh Mhichíl, An Baile Dubh ón 20-22 Bealtaine 2016. Beidh an seisiún an Domhnach seo chugainn ar an gceann deireanach míosúil a bheidh againn roimh an tsamhraidh, mar go bhfuil sé i gceist againn coirmcheoil speisialta a eagrú i mí Bealtaine dóibh siúd a bheidh ag glacadh páirte sa bhFleadh Cheoil. Sonraí le teacht.Táille iontrála: €2 an duine fásta, €1 an páiste agus €4 ar clann i gcomhair baill nó €3 an duine fásta, €2 an páiste agus €6 ar chlann dóibh siúd gan ballraíocht. Reachtáileann Craobh Ghaeltacht na nDéise seisiúin míosúla, ag malartú idir An Sean-Phobal agus An Rinn gach dara mí, agus bíonn fáilte roimh cheoltóirí óga, bíodh siad ina mball nó gan a bheith ina mball. Má tá a thuilleadh eolais uait, is féidir teagmháil a dhéanamh le Rúnaí Chraobh Ghaeltacht na nDéise CCÉ, Yvonne Uí Chadhain ar (087) 4101718. The next monthly gathering of the Gaeltacht branch of Comhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann will take place from 3-5pm on Sunday next, 10th April in Halla Pobail na Rinne, An Rinn. As usual, young musicians and singers are invited to come along to take part in the session, both members of the branch and anyone else who would like to join in. As well as the music and singing session for the children, we will also be taking registrations for the County Fleadh Cheoil. Registration forms will be available for anyone wishing to register and we hope that many of our young musicians and singers will take part in this year’s Fleadh Cheoil, which takes place in St. Michael’s Hall & School, Ballyduff from the 20-22 May 2016. Next Sunday’s session will be our last monthly session before the summer break, as we plan to organise a concert in May for all those competing in the County Fleadh Cheoil. Details to follow. Admission fees on Sunday next are as follows: Members: €2 per adult, €1 per child and €4 for a family. Non-members: €3 per adult, €2 per child and €6 for a family. Craobh Ghaeltacht na nDéise CCÉ organises sessions on the second Sunday of every month, alternating between An Sean Phobal and An Rinn every second month. Young musicians are welcome, whether branch members or

not. For further information you can contact the Secretary of Craobh Ghaeltacht na nDéise CCÉ, Yvonne Uí Chadhain on (087) 4101718. COMHGHAIRDEAS DO PHÁISTÍ NA hIARSCOILE Comhghairdeas do Pháistí na hIarscoile: Ríona Ní Chadhain, Ruadhán de Faoite, Sadhbh Ní Dhuibhir, Sadhbh Nic an Óige, Jasmine Ní Dhrócháin agus Myfi Nic Dháibhéad, a tháinig san dara háit insan comórtas taispeántas Craobh na Mumhan san Scór, thuas i gCeapach Choinn leis an dráma 'An mBreadán Feasa', Satharn 19ú Márta. Maith Sibh! Congratulations to the kids of Iarscoil na Rinne: Ríona Ní Chadhain, Ruadhán de Faoite, Sadhbh Ní Dhuibhir, Sadhbh Nic an Óige, Jasmine Ní Dhrócháin and Myfi Nic Dháibhéad who came second in the Scór na Mumhan competition in Cappoquin on Saturday 19th March. Maith Sibh!. AN GHAELTACHT CLG - TREALLAMH DARA LÁIMHE Tá An Ghaeltacht ag lorg treallamh CLG dara láimhe atá agat sa mbaile! Camáin, clogaid, buataisí, láimhíní srl. Is féidir linn an treallamh seo a úsáid sna scoileanna agus bheadh sé thar a bheith úsáideach. Labhair le coach do pháiste má tá aon rud agat. Is féidir treallamh a fhágaint leis na coaches ag Halla Pobail Na Rinne aon oíche Aoine. An Ghaeltacht CLG are looking for any used GAA equipment you have at home! Hurleys, helmets, boots, gloves etc. We could restore and use this equipment in the schools and it could prove very useful. Please speak with your child’s coach if you have anything. Equipment can be left with the coaches at the Friday night sessions in Halla Pobaile Na Rinne. CUIBHRINN SA SEAN PHOBAL Tá Coiste Cuibhrinn na nDéise ag lorg treallamh gharraíodóireachta dara láimhe. Má tá aon treallamh agat nach bhfuil uait a thuilleadh, tabhair go dtí na cuibhrinn sa Sean Phobal é. Potaí, tráidire síolta agus síolta go háirithe. Tuilleadh eolais: 087 0569907. The Allotments Committee in An Sean Phobal are seeking donations of any unwanted gardening equipment. Including pots of any size/seed-trays/seed's etc. To be brought to the allotments. Further information: 087 0569907. COISTE LOURDES AN RINN AGUS AN SEAN PHOBAL Tá Coiste Lourdes – An Rinn agus An Sean Phobal an-buíoch do gach éinne a thug cabhair agus tacaíocht dúinn do Tráth na gCeist ar na Aoine seo caite. Bhí an oíche go híontach. Míle buíochas. The Lourdes Guild of An Rinn and An Sean Phobail are

very grateful to everyone who gave their help and support to the Table Quiz on Friday night last. It was a very successful evening. Míle buíochas. COMÓRADH 1916 Tá clár imeachtaí leagtha amach anseo i nGaeltacht na nDéise le haghaigh comóradh 1916. Tháinig Cumann Staire agus Oidhreachta Gaeltacht na nDéise agus an Comhlucht Forbartha le chéile, le cabhair ó daoine deonacha eile chun Meitheal Oibre a bhunú sa cheantar chun imeachtaí don comóradh a eagrú.Tá comórtas litríochta ar siúl i láthair na huaire do dhaoine óga. Tá an comórtas oscailte do na scoileanna áitiúla anseo i nGaeltacht na nDéise agus do Ghaelscoileanna ar fud Port Láirge. Beidh duais bronnta ar na scoileanna atá páirteach agus ar na ndaltaí is fearr. Beidh leac nua i gcuimhne beirt fir ón cheantar seo a throid san Éirí Amach i mBaile Átha Cliath nochtaithe thíos i gCeann Heilbhic, in aice le Leac na bhFíníní Dé Domhnaigh an 17ú Aibreáin 2016. Beidh aifreann ar siúl sa Sean Phobal níos déanaí i mbliana mar chuid den clár agus beidh ceolchoirm anseo sna Déise níos déanaí sa bhliain chomh maith. Beidh na sonraí fógartha ar ball. A Programme of events has been set out for the 1916 commemoration here in the Waterford Gaeltacht. Cumann Staire agus Oidhreachta Gaeltacht na nDéise and Comhlucht Forbartha na nDéise, together with some other interested parties have set up a Meitheal Oibre to organise events for the commemoration. Schools Literature Competition, the competition is open to local schools in the Waterford and a number of Gaelscoils in Waterford are also taking part. Prizes will be presented to participating schools and the best entrants. A new plaque in memory of two local men who fought in the rising in Dublin will be unveiled beside Leac na bhFíníní in Heilbhic Head on Sunday 17th April. A mass will be celebrated in An Sean Phobal later this year as part of the program of events and a concert will be held in the area later on in the year as will. Details will be announced in the coming weeks. SPRAOI Beidh Spraoi ag teacht le chéile arís tar éis saoire na Casca an Aoine seo o 10 r.n. 12 i.n. sa Halla. Fáilte roimh cách! Is féidir teagmháil a dhéanamh leo ag 087 7479428. Spraoi Parent & Toddler Group will meet after the Easter break again this Friday in the Halla from 10 am to 12 noon. Bigi linn! Further info: 087 7479428. MAIDIN CAIFÉ Beidh Maidin Caifé i Halla

Pobail na Rinne, Dé hAoine 15/4/16 ó 9.00 r.n. - 1.30 i.n. ar son Cystic Fibrosis Ireland. Fíorchaoin fáilte roimh gach cabhair agus tacaíocht ar an lae. Tuilleadh eolas ó Bríd ar 087-7479428. A Coffee Morning will be held on Friday 15/4/16 in Ring Community Hall from 9 am - 1 pm to raise vital funds for Cystic Fibrosis Ireland. For more information contact Bríd on 0877479428. GLÓR TEAGHLAIGH DHÚN GARBHÁN Beidh grúpa dátheangach do thuismitheoirí agus leanaí ar siúl ag Ghlór na nGael gach Céadaoin san Ionad Pobail & Óige i nDún Garbhán ó 10.30 r.n. go dtí 12 i.n.. Deis do theaghlaigh Gaeilge teacht lena chéile agus naisc a chothú agus a láidriú. Deis do theaghlaigh nach bhfuil Gaeilge in úsáid acu faoi láthair í a fhoghlaim is a úsáid i slí nádúrtha i suíomh compordach agus tacúil. Tuilleadh eolais ar fáil ó Cabríní de Barra 058 24642 / 083 4455914. Fáilte roimh chách. A bilingual parent ant toddler group will meet each Wednesday in the Glór na nGael Community and Youth centre in Dungarvan from 10:30am to 12pm. This is an opportunity for families with Irish to get together and develop their connections with each other. It is also an opportunity for families without Irish to learn and use Irish in a comfortable and natural setting. Further information available from Cabríní de Barra 058 24642 / 083 4455914. Bígí Linn! SEIRBHÍS DOCHTÚRA Bíonn an Dr Gráinne Ní Fhoghlú ag feidhmiú ó Ionad Pobail na Rinne gach Máirt agus Déardaoin ó 9r.n. – 11r.n. ar maidin. Dr Gráinne Ní Fhoghlú is available in the Health Centre in Ionad Pobail na Rinne on Tuesday and Thursday mornings from 9am – 11am. CUMANN NAOMH UINSEANN DE PÓL Má theastaíonn ó éinne teagmháil a dhéanamh le Cumann Naomh Uinseann de Pól sa cheantar, is féidir teacht orthu ag (058) 46125 nó 085-1422902. The contact numbers for the An Rinn / An tSean Phobail branch of St Vincent de Paul are (058) 46125 or 085-1422902. MEÁIN SHÓISIALTA / TEAGMHÁIL / CONTACT Is féidir an nuacht is déanaí agus eolas faoi imeachtaí a bheidh ar siúl sa Rinn agus sa Seanphobal a fháil ar an leathanach Facebook atá ag an gComhlucht Forbartha agus táimid ar fáil ar twitter anois chomh maith – @cfdeise. If anybody has events / news to be included in Nótaí na Gaeltachta, send them to cfdeise@gmail.com or 05846664.

Roisin Ni Chadhla, An Rinn who took part in the recitation event at the County Finals of Scor na bPaisti held in Cappoquin Community Hall. [Sean Byrne//Deise Media]

Aoibhe Ni Mhurchu, An Rinn who took part in the Solo Singing at the County Finals of Scor na bPaisti held in Cappoquin Community Hall. [Sean Byrne//Deise Media]

Riona Ni Chadhain, An Rinn winner of the solo singing at the County Finals of Scor na bPaisti held in Cappoquin Community [Sean Byrne//Deise Media] Hall.

COUNTY NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Picture of a nice landscape of Tallow town from Lisfinny, Tallow, on Monday, 31st March last.

[David O’Flynn]

Phoebe’s back this time with Luke

Jack Donnelly, Ruth Walsh, Cate Donnelly and Sara Donnelly pictured at the annual Ballinamult Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt in aid of Barnardos. The local event was one of 25 community events taking place across Ireland this Easter in support of Barnardos. People can still support Barnardos by texting ‘BARNARDOS’ to 50300 to donate €4* to a very worthy cause! *100% of your donation goes to Barnardos across most network operators. Some operators apply VAT which means that a minimum of €3.25 will go to Barnardos. Service Provider: LIKECHARITY. Helpline: 0766805278. [Leo Murphy]

Our Lady of Mercy N.S. Stradbally – World Book Day Winners.

AS I keep on repeating endlessly in these pages, the amount of talent – not just talent but incredible and transcendent genius – that exists in the relatively small and under-appreciated area of Dungarvan and West Waterford is simply astonishing. This applies to sport, to music, to dance, to literature to singing and to literally every branch of the arts. But the excellence shown of latter years in the theatre is especially impressive. For a place where, though we have a very long and very pre-eminent reputation in the world of music drama, theatre and show business of every kind, this great tradition suffered a kind of brief hiatus, we can now definitely say with confidence; we're back. And not just back, but back in full strength and as we say, giving it fong. The amount of drama and theatre groups that have sprung up just very recently is simply unbelievable. Shows, plays, acting and singing and dancing talent is pouring on to our stages at an unprecedented rate. Just think how many great shows you've seen of late and you'll agree. We're really spoiled for choice. You could very easily, just like me, find yourselves never out of the theatre! Every second night there is something on in Dungarvan. It should really be the motto of the town and emblazoned on our coat-ofarms! In the words of the old slogan, we've never had it so good! And in fairness, there is very few of the great musical shows we've seen in the area over the last few years that haven't featured either one or the other or sometimes both of the two great stars of musical theatre that are going to be our honoured guests at the Dungarvan Singers Club, this Monday, April 11th at 9 pm in Dillon's, Wolfe Tone Road, Dungarvan. I'm speaking of course of the outstanding young talented performers Luke O'Brien and Phoebe Dipple. Between them, both separately and individually, they

Phoebe Dipple

Luke O’Brien

have graced nearly all the accomplished musical comedies that have entranced Dungarvan audiences for the last few years. I spoke to actors who had worked with them and they all loved and respected them both. I got quotes like: of Phoebe “every show she's been in, she's been stunning”, and of Luke: “for such a young man, he's full of energy, enthusiasm and confidence”. Luke started in Grease where he played Doody. He then went on to play Lefou in Beauty and the Beast, Barron James in Camp Rock, Major Domo in Cinderella (the panto), Lucas in the Addams Family, Asher in Joseph and his Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat, Max in Hocus Pocus, the Prince in Sleeping Beauty, Ren in Footloose, and Munkustrap in Cats. What an impressive list of roles for one so young. Apart from these he was in the ensemble for High School Musical and for Best little Whorehouse in Texas which is only just over and (as usual for the local Shows) was a resounding success. Phoebe has been involved in musical theatre from a very young age, with her first ever role on stage as a Disco Dancer in "MADD Capers" at the age of 5! Her real love for the theatre began when she joined Dungarvan Junior Musical Stage School in 2011, and since she has been in many of their productions playing such roles as Dorothy Gale "The Wizard of Oz", The Cat "Honk!", Ariel "The Little Mermaid", Amber Von

Tussle "Hairspray", The Narrator "Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat", Demeter "Cats!". She has also worked with her Stage School director, David Hennessey in other productions such as "Les Miserables" with South Eastern Musical Society where she played Cosette, "Carousel" with Waterford Musical Society where she played Louise Bigelow, and most recently she played the part of "Doatsey Mae" in Dungarvan Playhouses' production of "The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas". She got the chance to play her dream role of Maria in St. Augustine’s Colleges production of "West Side Story" in 2015. She has had the wonderful opportunity to work with acclaimed musical director David Hayes on many projects including being part of an ensemble choir for Gary Barlows' concert in the 02 Arena in Dublin and for Daniel O’Donnell's Christmas Show. Last October she had the opportunity to perform in the Bord Gáis Energy Theatre as part of the "Aims 50th Anniversary Concert". Recently she has been offered the opportunity to perform in the Theatre Royal in Brighton as part of an organisation called YMT (Youth Musical Theatre). YMT is a UK based company that auditions all around the UK and gives a select number of auditionees the opportunity of a lifetime to perform in one of their new productions during the summer. She is absolutely thrilled to be given

this opportunity and will be performing in YMT's production of "BUSTED! The Musical" this August in Brighton. She is currently fund-raising to fund this great experience! And so, in order to help her, we will have a special whip-round and collection box for her on the night of her appearance at the club. Try your best to come and help her out. So if you have any love whatsoever for great singing and for acting of the highest calibre and for true stage presence and charisma, come along and support these two still very young local heroes who have been, are, and especially will be in the future at the very forefront of music drama in Ireland and the world and who will be, as they are already, wonderful ambassadors for this great area of West Waterford, representing gloriously the rich vein of talent and virtuosity that we are overflowing with. It is one of our great and primary gifts to the world at large – the amazing enthusiasm and vigour of our youth. What a gift and what a promise for the future! There is no fear and no danger that the ancient Irish art of singing, speaking and performing will die away any time in the near future. What a boost for us in this underrated part of the country and the world to be able to say that we are providing such a large proportion of the talent and genius that the world needs to survive adequately in a climate that is becoming increasing sterile, plastic and corporate. So come along and help to support and encourage this sublime burgeoning of matchless energy and talent. Luke and Phoebe really need the added injection of your enthusiasm and your appreciation of their efforts. So, don’t forget: Luke O’Brien and Phoebe Dipple at Dillon’s, Wolfe Tone Road, Dungarvan on Monday, April 11th at 9.00 p.m. Free Admission - The Best Night’s Entertainment in Town!

COUNTY NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

A large group of people, gathered before the start of the annual Ballinamult Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt in aid of Barnardos. The local event was one of 25 community events taking place across Ireland this Easter in support of Barnardos. People can still support Barnardos by texting ‘BARNARDOS’ to 50300 to donate €4* to a very worthy cause! *100% of your donation goes to Barnardos across most network operators. Some operators apply VAT which means that a minimum of €3.25 will go to Barnardos. Service Provider: LIKECHARITY. Helpline: 0766805278. [Leo Murphy

West Waterford

IRISH CANCER SOCIETY FUNDRAISER Come and join us and bring a friend for a coffee morning and bring and buy cake sale in the Craft Room, Main Street, Villierstown (beside shop) in aid of the Irish Cancer Society. Each year we have this fundraiser and are always amazed by people’s generosity. Saturday, 9th April, from 11.30 a.m. “Cancer affects all of us, whether you’re a daughter, mother, father, brother sister, friend, co-worker, doctor, or patient.” – Jennifer Aniston. COMMUNITY SPRING CLEAN! This Saturday, 9th April, is Spring Clean Our Parish Day. See details of this very important event in the Tidy Towns and Community Council notes. “CLASHMORE FESTIVAL - STINGS AND THINGS” - FUNDRAISER An Evening with Orla Fitzgerald and Martin Lucey - The leading actors in Ken Loach's Palme Do'r winning film “The Wind That Shakes the Barley”, takes place on the 14th April, here in Piltown Hall, in Kinsalebeg, starting at 8.00 p.m. sharp. Tickets are just €8 and will be available at the door. HALL REFURBISHMENT – A WORK IN PROGRESS The work on the school hall is now in full swing so too are one of the head lining acts for the big stage on June Bank Holiday weekend “Two Time Polka”. This Cajun

style band with classic rhythms and punchy vocals will have you toe tapping and hand clapping. Also confirmed for the weekend are “The Down and Outs Bluegrass” Band and street performers “Wobbly Circus”. With many more bands, performers and family friendly events to be announced watch this space and please support the fundraising events where you can. CLASHMORE AND KINSALEBEG COMMUNITY COUNCIL Annual Spring Clean: It's time to get out there and pick up the litter on our roads on Saturday 9th April. T imes and Locations: Clashmore Village – Tidy Towns – meet at Heritage Centre at 10.00 a.m. Clashmore Main Road – Community Alert – meet at Heritage Centre at 10.00 a.m. Kinsalebeg – Community Alert – Meet at Piltown Hall at 10.00 a.m. Ardsallagh – Community Group – Meet at Crossroads at 10.00 a.m. For safety reasons, please make sure you pick up a high-vis jacket and get some rubbish bags from the meeting points. If you can't make the Saturday morning please pick up the rubbish along your road. Men on the Move! The Community Council has arranged for the Waterford Sports Partnership to run their popular Men on the Move programme in Clashmore. If you are a man, any age, and want to start exercising, feel fitter and have more energy, then this 8week physical activity programme is for you. It will start towards the end of April with two sessions per week for 8 weeks. The cost is €20 for the 8 weeks.The course is open to anyone in West Waterford. Places are limited so book your place by calling Peter Jones on 0761-102191 or email pjones@waterfordsportspartnership.ie. Table Tennis Club: The

Table Tennis Club continues in the Community Hall starting at 7.00 p.m. on Tuesday nights. Thursday Walking Club: Now that Winter is over, the Walking Club is starting up again in different locations in the area. It starts at 10.00 a.m. on Thursday mornings. For details call 087-6243406. 4th AGLISH FUN RUN / WALK The 4th Aglish Fun Run / Walk took place on Easter Monday in brilliant sunshine. The gods smiled on us again this year with the weather. Over 450 adults and children and a few dogs took to the roads of Aglish. Some ran some walked and some crawled 5 or 10k around Bleech in aid of the Children's Hospital Crumlin. With over 70 Spot Prizes on offer and loads of food everyone went home happy. This fundraising event would not be possible without our sponsors, too many to mention here. A full list appears on our Facebook page. Please support our sponsors whenever you can. I would like to thank everyone that helped out on the day, stewards, catering staff, civil defence, Conor and Jamie on traffic control, David and James on the cameras, ladies on registration and on ticket duty, all who helped with food. Thanks to West Waterford AC for use of the van and the clock and Aglish Community Hall for use of their premises. If I omitted anybody from the list I apologise. To the people who took sponsorship cards and to members of Aglish Fit4Life who contributed €2 every night over the winter months thanks very much. To all the people that travelled to Aglish to take part thanks a million. Hundreds of photographs up on DC Images and West Waterford AC Facebook site of the Run. Also a small promotional video on site as well. As I write these notes we are approaching €5,000 in contributions for Children's

Hospital Crumlin. Final total will be up on Facebook early next week. Finally to the local papers and local correspondents thanks for all the publicity. AGLISH / BALLINAMEELA / MOUNT STUART PARISH NOTES Holy Week Ceremonies: Our thanks to all who attended the Ceremonies and all who helped in any way. Mission Appeal: At all the Parish Masses last weekend April 2nd and 3rd we were joined by a member of the Franciscan Brothers Bro. Brian Johnson who came on their Mission appeal. Divine Mercy Sunday: Divine Mercy Sunday was marked with a special Mass which was celebrated in Aglish Church. Feast of St. Cathaldus: To mark the feast of St. Cathaldus a special Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, May 10th at 7.30 p.m. at St. Cathaldus Well in Ballinameela. Confir mation: Confirmation will be celebrated in Ballinameela Church on Thursday, April 14th, 2016 at 11.00 a.m. Bishop Alphonsus Cullinan will make his second visit to Ballinameela Church having been here also on September for the 175th anniversary celebration of the church. Parish Pastoral Meeting: A meeting of the Parish Pastoral Council takes place on Wednesday, April 13th in the Parochial House. CLASHMORE RAMBLERS ALPHA LOTTO Sunday, April 3rd: This weeks letters in the Clashmore Ramblers Alpha Lotto were F, M, P and Z.We had no jackpot winner. Our jackpot now stands at €600 this coming Sunday night and remember if you are not in you cannot win. The following were the lucky winners of €20 spot prizes: Richard Whyte c/o Eithne, Gavin Dower and

Karen O’Brien. Well done to all our winners and thanks to everyone for your continued support. PABLO’S REGATTA A Date for your Diary This year’s boat race PABLO'S REGATTA takes place in Clashmore on Sunday, 5th June starting at 12.00 noon. Boats now on sale for €3 a boat, or 2 for €5. Half the money raised this year going to Cancer Research. BALLYCURRANE PARENTS ASSOCIATION Easter Draw Results: The following are the prizes and winners of our fundraising Easter Draw which took place recently: 1st Prize Large Easter Hamper - Winner Deirdre Barron Ardmore; 2nd Prize Jean Butler Jewellery Winner Ava Mansfield Ballycurrane; 3rd Prize Castlemartyr Afternoon Tea for Two - Winner Michael & Martina Morrissey, Grange; 4th Prize Fota Island Afternoon Tea for Two Winner Mick Heaphy; 5th Prize 4 Person Green Fees Youghal Golf Club - Winner Ken Palliser Ardmore; 6th Prize Jameson Distillery Tour Passes - Winner Deugie Lombard Grange; 7th Prize Canvas Picture - Winner Joey Brennan Mount Stuart. The Ballycurrane National School Parents Association would like to thank everyone for their generous support. CLASHMORE / KINSALEBEG PLOUGHING Clashmore / Kinsalebeg Ploughing Association will hold their Annual General Meeting on Thursday night, April 7th, 2016, at the Old Still Clashmore. The AGM commences at 9.00 p.m. and new members are welcome. NEW ARRIVAL Congratulations and best wishes to Eleanor (nee Daly Kinsalebeg) and her husband Ollie Hegarty, Youghal, on the birth of their son, whom they have named Cooper

Sean, a most welcome baby brother for Noah and Sadie. Best wishes to you both from all your family and friends over here across the Blackwater. ENGAGEMENT CONNERY – MOYNIHAN Congratulations and best wishes to Niall Connery, Ballinamultina, Clashmore, and Marie Moynihan on the occasion of their recent engagement, which they announced recently. Every good wish to you both. CLASHMORE / KINSALEBEG GAA LOTTO The weekly Clashmore / Kinsalebeg GAA Lotto draw took place on Monday night last, April 5th. The numbers out of the drum this week were 1, 27, 22 and 25.We had no match four winner so next week our Jackpot will be €5,000. Next week’s draw takes place at the Decies Bar Clashmore. Well done to the following who were our lucky winners of €20 spot prizes: Tommy Keogh, Piltown; Kevin O’Brien; Una Kenneally; D. & S. Hickey, Castlemartyr and Marie McGrath. Thank you to everyone for your support and congratulations to all our winners. CLASHMORE 45 DRIVE On Monday night, April 5th, here at the 45 Drive in Clashmore our top prize winners on eight games were Hannah Lucas and Mary O’Donovan. In joint second on seven games we had Derry Cotter and Billy Connery; Jim McGrath and Jack Douris. Best of the last five were Anne Ledingham and Noel Nugent. Our lucky last game winners were Una and Margaret Leahy, Mike Hunt and Martin Lynch. CLASHMORE TIDY TOWNS COLOURING COMPETITION RESULTS 2016 The 24 award winners from the Clashmore Tidy

Town’s Anti Litter Colouring competition were announced on Friday, March 25th with 7 finalists from each of the 3 national schools (one winner per class). From these 24 shortlisted names, there were to be 2 winners announced on Easter Sunday in the Heritage Centre where all of the pictures were presented for viewing. A very high turn-out showed the interest in the competition where the winner of best anti litter slogan with “Slam Dunk Your Junk” was announced as Taylor Lombard from Clashmore N.S., collecting her €100 prize. Indeed Taylor was also in the running for the best colouring competition. However, the winner came from Kinsalebeg N.S. with Jude E. Walsh taking the supreme prize of a hotel stay for 2 adults and 2 kids along with a day pass for 2 adults and 2 kids to Tayto Park. What happens next? The winning slogan and pictures will now be used to make transparent stickers which we hope local people will put on the back window of their cars to show their support for anti-litter. With over 200 entries from the 3 schools where the standard and imagination was sky high, a special thanks to the judging panel of Gay Morehead, Mary Sheehan and Suzanne O’Keeffe Allen. We will also use this event to seek out a higher score in this year’s Tidy Towns under “Waste Management & Prevention” Other News: Come out and join Clashmore Tidy Towns and the Community Council this Saturday, April 9th for the National Spring Clean-up starting at 10.00 a.m. from the Heritage Centre. We are hoping that friends and neighbours will come in force this year to clean up our local ditches. It is 1 hour from your year to help make your locality a bit cleaner so please get involved.

SCOR NA BPAISTI COUNTY FINAL

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Lismore Winners of the Novelty Act at the County Finals of Scor na bPaisti held in Cappoquin Community Hall. [Sean Byrne//Deise Media] Shamrocks Ballad Group winners at the County Finals of Scor na bPaisti held in Cappoquin Community Hall. [Sean Byrne//Deise Media]

Sliabh gCua Set Dancers winners at the County Finals of Scor na bPaisti held in Cappoquin Community Hall.

Sliabh gCua Figure Dancers winners at the County Finals of Scor na bPaisti held in Cappoquin Community Hall.

[Sean Byrne//Deise Media]

Shamrocks A winners of the Table Quiz at the County Finals of Scor na bPaisti held in Cappoquin Community Hall. [Sean Byrne//Deise Media]

Nire Instrumental Group, winners at the County Finals of Scor na bPaisti held in Cappoquin [Sean Byrne//Deise Media] Community Hall.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

SCOR NA bPAISTI COUNTY FINAL

Ballyduff Intrumental Music group who finished second in the County Finals of Scor na bPaisti held in Cappoquin Community Hall. [Sean Byrne//Deise Media]

An Rinn who finished second in the Novelty Act at the County Finals of Scor na bPaisti held in Cappoquin Community Hall. [Sean Byrne//Deise Media]

Shamrocks B Set Dancers who finished second in the County Finals of Scor na bPaisti held in Cappoquin Community Hall. [Sean Byrne//Deise Media]

Passage Ballad Group who finished second at the County Finals of Scor na bPaisti held in Cappoquin Community Hall. [Sean Byrne//Deise Media]

An Rinn who finished second in the Table Quiz at the County Finals of Scor na bPaisti held in Cappoquin Community Hall. [Sean Byrne//Deise Media] Pictured left â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Catherine Hynes, Shamrocks who finished second in the recitation event at the County Finals of Scor na bPaisti held in Cappoquin Community Hall. [Sean Byrne//Deise Media]

Modeligo Figure Dancers who finished second in the County Finals of Scor na bPaisti held in Cappoquin Community Hall. [Sean Byrne//Deise Media]

Sarah Nyhan, Brickeys winner of the recitation event at the County Finals of Scor na bPaisti held in Cappoquin Community Hall.

Pictured right â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Sarah Nyhan, Brickeys who finished second in the solo singing at the County Finals of Scor na bPaisti held in Cappoquin Community Hall.

[Sean Byrne//Deise Media]

SCOR NA bPAISTI COUNTY FINAL

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

An Rinn B Ballad Group who finished third in the County Finals of Scor na bPaisti held in Cappoquin Community Hall. [Sean Byrne//Deise Media]

Ballyduff Set Dancers who finished third in the County Finals of Scor na bPaisti held in Cappoquin Community Hall. [Sean Byrne//Deise Media]

Tom Rogers, Stradbally who finished third in the recitation event. [Sean Byrne//Deise Media]

Shamrocks C Quiz Team who finished third in the County Finals of Scor na bPaisti held in Cappoquin Community Hall. [Sean Byrne//Deise Media]

Siobhan Lennon, Brickeys who finished third in the solo singing. [Sean Byrne//Deise Media]

Stradbally B Figure Dancers who finished third in the County Finals of Scor na bPaisti held in Cappoquin Community Hall. [Sean Byrne//Deise Media]

Ballysaggart Novelty Act who finished third in the County Finals of Scor na bPaisti held in Cappoquin Community Hall. [Sean Byrne//Deise Media]

Ballysaggart Instrumental Music group who finished third at the County Finals of Scor na bPaisti held in Cappoquin Community Hall. [Sean Byrne//Deise Media]

SCHOOLS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

ASTI 94th Annual Convention THE Association of Secondary Teachers of Ireland (ASTI) held their 94th Annual Convention over three days from Tuesday 29th to Thursday, 31st March during the Easter Holidays at the Silver Springs Hotel in Cork. Among the many issues debated over the three days were the demand for a common basic pay scale and the refusal

of ASTI members to assess their own students for School Certification at Junior Cycle. At present there are three different pay scales for teachers all doing the same work, a situation which is totally unacceptable. The Department of Education and Skills plans to introduce changes to the

Junior Cert that would see a greater emphasis placed on teachers' assessment of their own students. A motion that ASTI members would refuse to assess their own students was passed overwhelmingly. The ASTI position is that Certification is the responsibility of the State via the State Examinations

Commission and stand for the idea that State Certification must represent 100% of the certification. Teachers enjoy being an advocate for students and do not want to be their judge and jury. They want their role to remain supportive and not change to merely a role of judgement which school certification

will do. ASTI members are currently engaging in industrial action by refusing to attend in-service training for the new Junior Cycle and have threatened a series of one day strikes from September 2016 unless the DES is willing to engage in meaningful discussions on the proposed reform of the Junior Cycle.

Pat Collins, Branch Chairperson; Michael McGrath, Standing Committee Representative; Padraig MacCraith, Branch Organiser; Ann Bennett, CEC West Waterford Branch; Liam Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Mahony, Honorary Life Member; Margo McGann, Branch Secretary; Pat Knightly, CEC Delegate and Tommy Collins, Branch Treasurer.

Dungarvan CBS Transition Year student Conor Sheehan with his artwork at the Lismore Castle Arts Artifice Exhibition.

Carriglea National School â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Proclamation Day was celebrated at Carriglea N.S. with a La Glas ceoilchoirm. Each class performed irish songs, rhymes, poems, music and dance. Bhi la speisialta againn.

SCHOOLS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Pictured with our most recent “Greenschools” Flag is Mr. Jim Power (DP), Mr. Liam Tobin (Groundsman), Class 3rd Year 4, Ms. Eileen Murphy and Príomhoide Ailbhe Ní Neachtain. The Friary is particularly grateful to Liam who is so actively involved in our ongoing “Greenschools” campaign.

ST. AUGUSTINE’S COLLEGE

Farm Walk in Banteer, Co. Cork Senior Cycle students on location at Murphy's farm, Banteer.

Tráth na gGeist: Ms Aoife Walsh, 5th Year students winners: Carla Rodasitija, Jack Higgins, Peter Duggan O’Sullivan, Clodagh Earley and Mrs Anita Buckley. Absent: Danny Brockie.

5th and 6th Year Agricultural Science students along with their teacher Ms Joan Ann Kelleher enjoyed a farm walk at Mr Frank Murphy’s farm in Glen, South Banteer, Co. Cork recently.This purpose built farm built in 2012 regularly features on RTE’s “Ear to the Ground” programme and also UTV’s “Rare Breed”. The farm features a robotic feeding system called “Maria” which was of particular interest to the students. Many thanks to Farm Managers Áine and Padraig who gave us a guided tour of the farm.

Proclamation Day at St. Augustine’s College.

SCHOOLS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Fr. G. Condon Blessing of Throats.

OUR LADY OF MERCY NS STRADBALLY

Red Kettle visits Stradbally NS RED Kettle Theatre Company visited the school in early January and the pupils enjoyed the visit with many different characters performing different tasks. Great fun was had by all. READATHON A very successful readathon took place in the school recently. The pupils read many different books and had many different imaginary adventures.A huge thank you to the support of parents. WORLD BOOK DAY On Thursday March 3rd the pupils dressed as their favourite book character. We had characters from fables, nursery rhymes, novels and autobiographies.The pupils thoroughly enjoyed themselves and there was a World Book Day quiz to test their knowledge after the judging of costumes. HANDWRITING COMPETITION The pupils participated

Red Kettle. in the An Post/INTO handwriting competition recently and the standard of penmanship was a delight to behold. There were prizes for the class winners and overall winners. 1916 COMMEMORATIONS As in all schools around Ireland the tricolour was raised in Our Lady of Mercy on March 15th. There was tunes played on

Readathon Winners.

the tin whistles, accordion and guitar.We also had Irish dancing and reciting of poetry and reading of our own Proclamation. We finished with the singing of the National Anthem. A huge thank you to Mrs. Crowley for organising the event and also to Bernie Coffey and Liz Murphy for preparing the guitarists and dancers. Also the Parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; had lovely goodies for everybody as always. PARENTSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; ASSOCIATION EASTER RAFFLE Well done to all the winners in the recent Easter raffle. A big thank you to all who contributed to the Draw. INDUCTION DAY On Tuesday, May 24th we have our induction day for new entrants for September 2016. You can get enrolment forms from the school office or school website.

Easter Raffle Winners.

An Post INTO Handwriting Winners.

OBITUARY

MARY (Maisie) QUINLAN (nee Fitzgerald) Ballincoush, Ballymacmague West, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford It is with great sadness that we record the passing of Mary (Maisie) Quinlan which sad event occurred at her residence on 14th March, 2016. Maisie, who previously lived in Ealing, West London, was predeceased by her husband, Eddie, in 1995. She was held in high esteem and much loved by all those who knew her. She had a special way with children and they loved to be in Maisie’s company. Maisie had a great sense of humour, was a keen gardener and reader and was a great fan of the TV programme Judge Judy. She was a gifted singer and was a member of the Parish Choir and Deise Singers. She was also a member of Glenbeg ICA who formed a guard of honour. She will be sadly missed by her loving family and a large circle of friends. May she rest in peace. Removal was from Drohan’s Funeral Home on Thursday evening to St. Mary’s Parish Church. Funeral Mass was concelebrated on Friday by Fr. Harris, C.C.; Fr. Ryan, P.P., and Fr. Cooney, O.S.A. Readings were delivered by Trisha Fitzgerald and Anne Whinnett (nieces). Prayers of the Faithful were read by Hannah Fitzgerald, Thomas Houlihan, Lisa Houlihan, Ryan Conway and William Fitzgerald. The gifts were brought to the Altar by John Fitzgerald and Laurence Houlihan. The symbols were presented by Siobhan Joyce, Patrick Houlihan, Martin Houlihan, Mary Keane and Martina Fitzgerald. Fitting hymns were provided by the Parish Choir. Burial took place in the adjoining cemetery. Chief mourners were: Anne Quinlan (daughter); John Fitzgerald (brother); Mary, Alice and Margaret (sisters-in-law); nieces and nephews. Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated on Sunday, 17th April, at 12 noon in St. Mary’s Parish Church, Dungarvan. (Funeral arrangements were by Tom Drohan, Funeral Directors, Dungarvan).

JOHN COLEMAN Ballinaroone, Ballyduff Upper With feelings of great sadness and regret we record the passing of John Coleman, Ballinaroone, Ballyduff Upper, Co. Waterford, loving brother of the late Patricia O’Brien and Margaret Coleman, which sad event occurred peacefully at his home on 28th March, 2016. Reposing at Walsh’s Funeral,Tallow, on Wednesday evening. Funeral prayers were recited by Rev. Fr. P. Condon, P.P., in the presence of his loving family, relatives and friends. Followed by removal to St. Michael’s Church, Ballyduff. On arrival his remains were received and blessed by Rev. Fr. G. McNamara, P.P. On Thursday morning Funeral Mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr. G. McNamara, P.P., and was assisted by Rev. Fr. J. Flynn, P.E.; Rev. Fr. Reidy and Rev. Fr. J. Mountain. Symbols representing his life were presented to the Altar by grand-daughter Suin Coleman (drama trophy); daughters-in-law Jenny (jockey silks); Ann Marie (Farmers’ Journal); and Claire (John and Eithne’s wedding photograph); niece Maria O’Brien (a family photograph); these were narrated by daughter Aisling. Readings during the Mass were recited by daughter Eimear and son John. Prayers of the Faithful were read by John’s grandchildren James, Harry, Ben, Oran, Rory, Lucy and Grace. A lovely selection of music and hymns was provided by Dina Walshe and was accompanied by Ann McEvoy. The Offertory Gifts were presented to the Altar by niece Ann McHugh and nephew Cormac O’Donovan. Communion reflection was sung by Ann McEvoy. Daughter Ciara recited a quotation from John B. Keane’s play “Many Young Men Of Twenty”. Eulogies were delivered by sons William and Brian, paying tribute to their father and acknowledging the support of all present, the community, neighbours and friends throughout their father’s illness. Following Funeral Mass burial took place in St. Michael’s Cemetery. Dina Walsh sang “Some Enchanted Evening” as the coffin was shouldered into St. Michael’s Cemetery. Rev. Fr. G, McNamara, P.P., officiated the graveside prayers where John was laid to rest in the presence of his loving family, relatives and friends. Hugh Collins from Ballyduff Drama gave a graveside oration. May he rest in peace. We extend our deepest sympathy to his loving wife Eithne (nee Healy); sons William, Brian and John; daughters Aisling Wixted, Eimear O’Carroll and Ciara Coleman; sisters Sr. Mary Coleman (Holy Faith Sisters) and Bridie McHugh; daughters-in-law Jennifer, Anne Marie and Claire; sons-in-law Olan Wixted and Eoin O’Carroll; grandchildren Ben, James, Oran, Harry, Rory, Lucy, Grace, Siún, Johnny and Catherine; brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends. (Funeral arrangements by Aidan Walsh & Sons, Funeral Directors, Cappoquin and Tallow).

VERY REVEREND FR. MICHAEL DUGGAN, C.S.Sp. Whitestown, Kilmacthomas It is with great sadness that we record the passing of Fr Michael Duggan, C.S.Sp., Whitestown, Kilmacthomas, which occurred on Wednesday, 30th March, at Marion House, Kimmage, Dublin, aged 89. Born in Whitestown, Kilmacthomas, to Annie (nee Broderick) and James Duggan on 16th November, 1926. Fr. Michael attended Newtown Primary School and following Secondary studies in Rockwell College 1939-1944, he entered the novitiate in Kilshane and was professed in 1945. He perfected in the Burse Office from 1946-1947 and in St. Mary’s, Rathmines, the following year. He earned a B.A. (Philosophy) from U.C.D. in 1951. In the final year of his theology studies at Kimmage, he was ordained on 5th July, 1953. Fr. Michael’s first appointment was to Kenya in 1954 where he served in educational and pastoral roles in Nairobi and Ngarariga. Returning to Ireland in 1963, he became Assistant Novice Master at Kilshane. He taught in Willow Park from 1968-1969 and then began a period of fundraising with the Burse Office which lasted for several years. He became Superior of the Kimmage Community in 1985, a position he held for six years. Following this, from 1992-1995, he was Chaplain in Clonskeagh Hospital. Fr. Michael moved to St. Michael’s College Community in 1995. He was Superior of the Community from 1995-2005 and during this time he was Bursar for a period. He was also Chaplain to the Poor Clare Sisters. He was a great promoter of Padre Pio and celebrated Mass with Pope John Paul II at the Canonisation Mass in Rome in 2002. In 2004, Fr. Michael became Director of the Padre Pio Prayer Group in Ireland. He led pilgrimages to San Giovanni and Lourdes for thirty years. He was one of the prime fundraisers for Marian House and was also renowned for pastoral ministry in St. Michael’s College, St. Mary’s College, Muckross College and Drimnagh parish. He was appointed to St. Mary’s College Community in 2011 and moved to Kimmage earlier this year. Reposing in the Mission House, Kimmage, on Friday, April 1st, removal to Kimmage Manor Church for evening prayer. The Funeral Mass was concelebrated April 2nd by Fr. Paul Walsh, C.S.Sp., and very Reverend Fr. Superior Daithi Kenneally, C.S.Sp., in Dublin, followed by burial at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Kill, Co. Waterford, also attended by Fr. Keogh, P.P., Newtown and Kill; Fr. Condon, P.P., Stradbally, and Fr. Callanan, C.C., Kill. Described by many for his gentle nature and compassionate heart, Fr. Michael’s undying faith touched many lives. A man of God, whose faith in God, prayer and Padre Pio reached far and wide. On behalf of Fr. Michael’s sister Anne Duggan, nieces, nephews, grandchildren and great grandchildren, we would like to thank the staff of Marian House Kimmage, friends and neighbours in Dublin and Waterford, to all who sent Mass cards and floral tributes and to those who travelled from afar, in particular the relatives of the late Fr. Michael Buckley, C.S.Sp., Moyvane, Co. Kerry.

Just think of it! ST.Thomas the apostle, doubting Thomas, seems to steal most of the limelight in the gospel reading we had on the Sunday after Easter, a Sunday that the older ones amongst us used to call Low Sunday, recognising that we were coming down from the dizzy heights of Easter Sunday. Thomas’ dramatic recognition that Jesus really had risen and was in fact standing in front of Thomas himself, that makes good reading. As also does Thomas’ heartfelt act of faith, ‘My Lord and my God’. But the first part of the gospel excerpt, when Thomas was not present, also carries an important message for us. Jesus greets the little gathering of his followers with the customary wish, ‘Peace be with you’. Then he tells them, ‘As the Father sent me, so am I sending you’. This is very significant” their mission is to be on a par with the task to which Jesus had dedicated his life. He was not going to preach to every corner of the earth, but that did not mean that the world would not get the Good News, the message of God’s love. No, the apostle’s message was truly to be God’s message, not a substitute for it. And then he breathed on them, a symbolic act, teaching them that they would have Jesus’ own power within them as they set out to continue his work. And a vital aspect of that work was the forgiveness of sin, reconciling men and women with their Maker. ‘Receive the Holy Spirit. For those whose sins you forgive, they are forgiven’. Christ is empowering the infant Church with the authority to forgive sin.This is the start of the sacrament of Penance, or, as we call it now, Reconciliation. To look for forgiveness of our sins against God from an ordained priest is not, therefore, the idea of some Pope, or of any saint: it means reaching back to what Jesus said on the evening of the first Easter Sunday. Occasionally one meets someone who says ‘I tell my sins to God and get forgiveness that way. Why should I tell them to someone else?’ The answer is that we must not push Jesus’ way aside and want to replace it with an idea of our own. Jesus is God, we’re not God. Fr. Robert Arthure, Cappoquin, Co. Waterford.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

MATTHEW (Mattie) PRENDERGAST Glendeish, Lismore, Co. Waterford It is with sincere sadness and deep regret that we record the sad passing of Matthew (Mattie) Prendergast, Glendeish, Lismore, Co. Waterford, which sad event occurred on Tuesday, 15th March, 2016, peacefully, surrounded by his loving family, in the care of the Nurses and Doctors at Marymount Hospice, Cork, after a short illness borne with dignity and courage. Born on 27th August, 1957, he was the oldest of four children born to Kate and Bill Prendergast. Sadly, he was predeceased by his brother Michael who died in 1978. After finishing his education, he settled into the family farm. He married his wife Mary on 21st May, 1983, and they were blessed with three children Matthew, Katie and Liam, each of whom he adored. A hugely popular member of the community, along with attending to his own farm, he also carried out work for other farmers such as spraying, fencing and hay making. He could be relied on to do a topclass job at all times. Mattie was a distinct man, a real character, a man who left a memory on everyone that he met. The highlight of his year was getting the machinery ready in April as he knew he would be on the road again from Ballysaggart, Lismore, Cappoquin, Melleray, Ballyduff and Araglen. The one and only paper for Mattie was the Farmers’ Journal every Thursday. He rarely read the local papers, the local press office was held at Glengarra Cross on a Sunday evening where all the neighbours met. Sadly, Mattie’s parents died at young ages, Mattie then stepped into the parenting role of Gerard and Mary. They had many happy nights at their home in Glendeish. The real love of Mattie’s life was his wife Mary and his three children. Each of whom he was so proud of and while they will mourn his passing, they will cherish forever the loving memories of a wonderful husband, father and brother. Mattie lay in repose in the family home in Glendeish on Tuesday and Wednesday evening where Rosary and prayers were recited by Father Michael Cullinan, P.P., on both nights. On Thursday morning (St. Patrick’s Day) his removal took place to St. Carthage’s Church, Lismore. The cortege was led by Mattie’s tractor, sprayer and trailer, pausing along the way at various sports – Glengara Hill,The Rock and The Spout – that were close to his heart. Funeral Mass was celebrated by Father Michael Cullinan, P.P. At the start of the Mass symbols of Mattie’s life, a family photograph, tractor, a sheep, his overalls and his hat were brought to the Altar by his sisterin-law Breda Kenneally, niece Abbey Prendergast and nephew Jamie Prendergast, with his niece Sarah Kenneally giving a brief description on the significance of each. The reading was recited by his son Matthew and his sister-in-law Bernie Kenneally. The Prayers of the Faithful were read by his sisters-in-law Catherine Kenneally, Noreen O’Callaghan and Monica Kenneally and his cousin Pat Morrissey.The Offertory Gifts of the bread and wine were presented to the Altar by his daughter Katie and sister Mary. After Communion, his daughter Katie sang “Caledonia” and his son Liam gave a moving eulogy which brought laughter and tears to everyone present. While the singing of the Parish Choir greatly enhanced Mattie’s Funeral Mass. As Mattie’s coffin was being shouldered down the aisle, Donal Kennefick sang “The Parting Glass.” The cortege proceeded to St. Carthage’s Cemetery where, after the final prayers recited by Father Michael Cullinan, Mattie was laid to rest in the family grave. After Mattie was laid to rest, Micheal Dunlea sang Mattie’s two favourite songs “The Wild Colonial Boy” and “The Galtee Mountain Boy,” a fitting tribute to a wonderful and well respected member of the community. The huge concourse of mourners at Mattie’s wake, funeral and Funeral Mass were a true testimony to the high esteem in which Mattie and his family are held over a wide area. Rest in peace, Mattie. To his loving wife Mary (nee Kenneally); children Matthew, Katie and Liam; brother Gerard; sister Mary (McCormack); brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews and the extended Kenneally family, relatives, neighbours and a wide circle of friends, we extend our sincere sympathy. (Funeral arrangements were Ryan Undertakers, Lismore).

TONY BUTLER Late of Cloneety Terrace, Dungarvan, and Sydney With sadness we record the passing of Tony Butler which sad event occurred in Australia. Deeply mourned by his wife Joan; children, grandchildren, family, friends and sister Mary. Funeral in Sydney. Memorial Mass in St. Patrick’s Church, Kilquade, Co. Wicklow, on Thursday, 7th April, 2016, at 10.00 a.m.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

OBITUARY JOE HARNEY Ballinroad, Old Parish

JOHN JAMES FENNESSY, M.D., and EMER MOIRA FENNESSY Chicago U.S.A., Clonea, Abbeyside and Dungarvan We write in tribute on the passing of John James Fennessy on January 3rd, 2016, in Chicago. A native of Clonmel, John was born on March 8th, 1933. Emigrated to the United States in early 1960s, he was a Radiologist by profession. John loved his poetry and history and had a keen interest in fly fishing. Travelling was another favourite pastime especially when his travels brought him to Ireland. Funeral Mass in celebration of John’s life took place in the Church of St. Thomas the Apostle in Chicago on Monday, 11th January, 2016. Predeceased by his daughter Emer Moira on April 11th, 2015, Emer was a native of Chicago and was born on 6th November, 1965. Deeply interested in photography and like her late Dad had an interest in travelling, especially to Ireland. Clonea Strand was a particular favourite of Emer. Her Funeral Mass was celebrated on Monday, April 20th, 2015, in St. Thomas the Apostle Church, Chicago. On Wednesday last, 30th March, the cremated remains of both John James and Emer Moira were interred in St. Mary’s Parish Cemetery, Dungarvan, with Canon William Ryan, P.P., officiating at the graveside in the presence of a large concourse, many of whom had crossed from the States to be in attendance. Lorraine, niece of John and cousin of Emer, read a prayer in Irish, while another niece and cousin Orla shared a poem whose theme centred on fishing. An Irish lament was a final tribute from the Stapleton family. John James Fennessy and Emer loved this part of the world, as John’s mother was a McCarthy who hailed from Abbeyside, a highly respected family noted for their expertise in the field of Medicine and Dentistry. We offer our condolences to their many relatives, Ann (wife and mother); sons/brothers Niall, Ruairí, Seán and Conor; daughters/sisters Deirdre and Rona; brother/uncle Cianán and wife Bríd; sister/aunt Nora Stapleton and her family Conor, Annie, Orla and Lorraine; son-in-law/brother-in-law Richard Wallace; daughter-inlaw/sister-in-law Bridget; grandson and nephew Seaogh (son of Niall) and family friends Steve Montner and Ann Healy. Many from our local Community were also present to pay their respects. Ar dheis lámh Dé go raibh an beirt acu. (James Kiely & Sons Funeral Directors, Dungarvan).

NORA HACKETT Boolavounteen, Ballinamult We write with feelings of profound sadness on the passing of Nora Hackett in the early hours of Monday, April 4th, at Dungarvan Community Hospital. Aged 91 years, a native of Boolavounteen, Nora was daughter of the late Jeremiah and Mary Hackett. Not enjoying the best of good health for some time, Nora was hospitalised for the past four years. We offer our deepest sympathy to her nephews Jeremiah Collins and Matt Walton; other relatives, especially the Hackett and Looby families, at this time. Reposing at the Kiely Funeral Home on Tuesday, removal took place later that evening at 7.00 p.m. to St. Mary’s Church,Touraneena. Requiem Mass will be celebrated this Wednesday, April 6th, at 11.00 a.m. with interment afterwards in the adjoining cemetery. (Funeral arrangements by James Kiely & Sons, Funeral Directors, Dungarvan).

DAVID MICHAEL O’RIORDAN “Slateways,” Ballyneety, Dungarvan With profound sorrow we record the passing of David Michael O’Riordan which sad event occurred on Wednesday, 30th March, 2016. Removal was from Drohan’s Funeral Home on Friday evening to St. Mary’s Parish Church, Dungarvan. Following Funeral Mass on Saturday morning, burial took place in Kilgobinet Cemetery. To his wife Fiona; son David; brothers, sisters and relatives we extend our deepest sympathy. Full obituary next issue. (Funeral arrangements were by Tom Drohan, Funeral Directors, Dungarvan).

Profound feelings of sadness and deep regret were expressed with the passing of Joe Harney at St.Vincent’s Unit, Dungarvan Community Hospital, on Saturday, 26th March. Well known and highly respected, Joe was son of the late Michael and Bridget Harney (née Kiely), the youngest of four children, born on the 8th March, 1934. Predeceased by his parents, sister Margaret, brother-in-law Pad Joe Fenton and nephew James Fenton, Joe was a native of Old Parish, attended the local National School at Baile Mhic Airt and furthered his education at the Christian Brothers Secondary School, Dungarvan. Of farming background, Joe worked long hours tending to his dairy herd and dry stock in difficult times. He loved his fishing and was known for his daring adventures fishing off the rocks. He was blessed with the gift of water divining, and sourced water for many a household. While draining some of his own land, Joe created two man-made lakes. These lakes were the backdrop and inspiration for Joe’s magical gardens.The unique rock assembly and layout coupled with a vast array of plants, trees and shrubs was testament to Joe’s creative nature.This was truly Joe’s earthly paradise, immensely proud and rightly so of his lakes and gardens, he opened his place to the Lions Club for fundraising purposes in recent years.Visitors always received a warm and hospitable welcome and were left with a very favourable and lasting impression of Joe’s welcoming ways and in awe of his wonderful landscaping creations, a real labour of love on Joe’s part. He had a great love of history and of tracing family trees. He possessed a vast knowledge of local history and assisted many when it came to the world of geneology.Time was never an issue for Joe, he enjoyed the company of people and always had time for a chat, especially when matters of yesteryear was on the agenda. Every Wednesday night he looked forward to meeting his friends in his home, where they discussed and debated the topical issues both national and further afield. Recent developments in the world of agriculture were also related upon. He was a keen sports enthusiast and had a great grá for the fortunes of Waterford in GAA affairs and enjoyed nothing better than seeing his beloved Déise in action on the green sward of Semple Stadium in Thurles. He also followed soccer and rugby and other sports on television. A man of deep religious faith, he attended to his duties with admirable fervour and devotion, sadly in recent years Joe’s health deteriorated which saw him spend some time in the Bon Secours Hospital, Cork, Marymount, Curraheen and finally in St.Vincent’s Unit, Dungarvan Community Hospital. A wonderful neighbour and friend, Joe received great help and support from his neighbour and friend Anthony Coffey, who was ever ready to assist Joe. Joe’s passing has left a void in the Old Parish community, that will be impossible to fill, his passing is mourned by his sisters Birdie Fenton and Sr. M. Sarto Harney; his nephew Mike Fenton and niece Elsie Fenton; grandnieces Meadhbh and Grainne Kiernan; other relatives and many friends, our deepest sympathy we extend to each at this time. Reposing at the Kiely Funeral Home on Easter Monday, following prayers and readings led by V. Rev. Fr. Conor Kelly, P.P., the removal took place to the Church of Our Lady of the Nativity, Old Parish. Joe’s remains were blessed and received by Fr. Conor Kelly, P.P., assisted by Rev. Fr. Gerard O’Connor, P.P., Aglish, Ballinameela and Mount Stuart. Funeral Mass in celebration of Joe’s life was offered on Tuesday morning. Canon Patrick Harney, P.P.,York, was chief celebrant with co-celebrants V. Rev. Fr. C. Kelly, P.P., and Rev. Fr. Michael Crowley, Cork. The lessons were shared by Anna Harney (cousin) and John Michael Kiely (cousin). Prayers of the Faithful were read by Meadhbh Kiernan (grandniece), Jackie O’Regan (friend), Sylvia Coffey (neighbour), Anthony Sheehan and Emma Harney (cousins). Mike and Elsie Fenton (nephew and niece) presented the bread and wine for the Holy Sacrifice, while items of significance were carried to the Altar, Meadhbh Kiernan, camellias from Joe’s garden (favourite flowers, love of earth and ability to grow anything). Joe Harney (cousin) of 1959 All-Ireland fame presented a hurley (Joe’s love of the clash of the ash). Tony Coffey (neighbour and friend) a laptop, Joe learned to use a computer in recent years); Anthony Coffey (neighbour and friend) Examiner paper, Joe read the news, sport and farming sections; Mike Fenton (nephew), a divining stick; Michael Harney (cousin), the Harney Coat of Arms and history, Joe’s pride in his heritage; niece Elsie Fenton gave a detailed commentary on each gift. Beautiful and uplifting music was provided by Breda Power, Kathleen Tobin and Marian Gough. Pallbearing duties were carried out by Mike Fenton, Anthony and Declan Coffey, Liam and Jim Harney and John Michael Kiely. Gathering in the adjoining cemetery and in the presence of a huge concourse, Canon Harney, P.P., led us in prayer and Joe Harney was laid to rest. Radharc na Trionóide go raibh ag Joe. (Funeral arrangements by James Kiely & Sons, Funeral Directors, Dungarvan).

55 PATRICK (Paddy) CUSACK Ballinavouga, Leamybrien, Co. Waterford It is with great sadness that we record the sudden death of Patrick (Paddy) Cusack at his residence in Ballinavouga, Leamybrien. Paddy died in the farmyard, after paying his daily visit to check on his calves. Paddy was born in Moonminane, Clonea Power, on the 12th July, 1926, the second son of Pat and Madge (Wall). He grew up on the family farm, together with his brothers, John, Phil, Tom; sisters Eileen and Mary (who died young). Paddy worked on the family farm with his brother John after leaving school. Paddy had a great love of hurling and played for Clonea for years, proudly winning the Senior County Final in 1952 playing alongside his brothers John and Phil. In October 1963 he married Mary Morrissey and they took residence in Ballinavouga, Kilrossanty, where they farmed and also reared their six children Maria, Carmel, Claire, Emily, Paul and William. Paddy had a great love of nature and poetry and in 2007, at the age of 83, he produced a book of poetry called “Lying Awake”. He sold over a thousand copies in aid of Waterford Hospice. Farming was his passion and he was very proud of the farm and the dairy herd that he built up from scratch. He loved going to the Mart to meet up with friends and neighbours. He was a great family man and his religion was very important to him. He always had a kind word for everyone he met along the way. Paddy lay in repose at his home on Monday, 21st March, where a huge crowd of family, friends and neighbours came to pay their final respects. Rosary was recited by Fr. John Delaney, P.P. Requiem Mass was celebrated the following morning in St. Brigid’s Church, Kilrossanty, by Fr. John Delaney, P.P., who was assisted by close neighbour Fr. Michael Collender, O.S.A., and Fr. Richard Geoghegan, P.P. The readings were by Paddy’s grandchildren, Emily and Rory, and son-in-law Donald. His grandson Donnacha recited one of Paddy’s own poems – “The Grey Haired Man”. The gifts of bread and wine were brought to the Altar by granddaughters Siobhan and Grace.The eulogy was given by his son William and music and hymns were performed by family friend Mala Raggett. Paddy was shouldered to his final resting place by his sons Paul and William, sons-in-law Donald Binchy and Matthew Caldwell and neighbours Noel Curran and Tom Collender. Chief mourners were his wife Mary; daughters Maria, Carmel, Claire and Emily; sons Paul and William; Paddy’s sister Eileen Cusack and his brother Tom Cusack; his sons-in-law Donald Binchy, Barry Kingsland, Matthew Caldwell and Ricky Monon; Kathleen Nugent; his grandchildren Emily, Donnacha and Ronan Binchy, Oran and Siobhan Kingsland, Rory, Grace, Hugh and Lawrence Caldwell and Cora Cusack. A special thank you from the Cusack family to all of those who called out to the house, phoned or sent messages, attended the funeral, kind words of support and who helped in any way and also to Drohan Undertakers for their excellent service. The Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated in St. Brigid’s Church, Kilrossanty, on Friday, the 22nd April at 8.15 p.m. (Funeral arrangements were by Tom Drohan, Funeral Directors, Dungarvan).

FR. KEVIN FOGARTY, O.C.S.O. Mount Melleray Abbey, Cappoquin, Co. Waterford It is sincere sadness and regret that we record the passing of Fr. Kevin Fogarty, O.C.S.O., Mount Melleray Abbey, Cappoquin, Co.Waterford, which sad event occurred peacefully on 29th March, 2016. On Tuesday evening Fr. Patrick, O.C.S.O., recited funeral prayers in the presence of his loving family, relatives and friends, before removal took place from Walsh’s Funeral Home, Cappoquin, to Mount Melleray Abbey Church. On arrival his remains were received and blessed by Fr. Donal, O.C.S.O., and his Monastic Community, where Fr. Kevin lay in repose in the Community Chapel. Funeral Mass was celebrated on Thursday afternoon in Mount Melleray Abbey Church by Fr. Denis Luke, O.C.S.O., and was assisted by his Community members and Priests of the Diocese. Readings and Prayers of the Faithful were recited by family members. Following Funeral Mass burial took place in the Community Cemetery. Fr. Denis Luke, O.C.S.O., officiated the graveside prayers where Fr. Kevin, O.C.S.O., was laid to rest in the presence of his Monastic Community, family, relatives and friends. May he rest in peace. We extend our deepest sympathy to his loving sisters Mary and Sr. Magdalen (Presentation); sisters-in-law Mary, Joan and Ann Fogarty; nephews, nieces, grandnephews, grandnieces, relatives, friends and his Monastic Community. (Funeral arrangements by Aidan Walsh & Sons, Funeral Directors, Cappoquin and Tallow).

FARMING

Knackeries refusing to collect fallen sheep IFA Animal Health Chairman Bert Stewart has strongly criticised the lack of action by the Department of Agriculture in providing a cost effective and competitive fallen animal collection service as farmers in parts of the country are left without a service to collect fallen sheep. In recent weeks, knackeries are either charging up to €50 to collect fallen sheep or refusing to collect them, leaving farmers without a legitimate disposal route for their fallen stock. Bert Stewart said he has raised this issue directly with senior Department officials and demanded a solution be found for the farmers left in this situation. “It is not acceptable for the Department to claim it is reasonable for farmers to deliver their fallen animals to the nearest knackery. A realistic solution must be found and in the intervening time the Department must advise farmers how to deal prac-

tically with the situation on their farms.” He said this latest development highlights the lack of competition and the inadequate service that exists in fallen animal collection, which IFA has continually highlighted to both the Minister for Agriculture Simon Coveney and his officials. The issue has been compounded by the Department of Agriculture issuing threatening letters in relation to TSE monitoring of sheep to flockowners with over 100 ewes. He said the timing could not be worse for either farmers or knackeries and represents a lack of understanding of realities on the ground. Bert Stewart said the only contribution made by the Department of Agriculture in recent years to fallen animal collection was to reduce competition in the area by applying the anti-competitive 125/km maximum distance requirement to the TSE sub-

sidy scheme. Despite commitments from the Minister to review the policy and its impact on competition, no changes have been made to it. IFA has provided the Department of Agriculture with options for an alternative approach following a study tour to Holland, where one provider services the entire region for fees that are a fraction of those charged to Irish farmers. He said the Department is responsible for an adequate fallen animal collection infrastructure in the country to facilitate farmers in complying with their obligations under the animal by products regulations. The current structure is not meeting this. Bert Stewart said the Department must act immediately, both in terms of the farmers who are left with no collection service for their sheep and in terms of providing a competitive, cost-effective infrastructure for all farmers.

IFA calls on NMA and NDC to regulate more strictly retailers’ sourcing of ‘Irish’ private label milk THE IFA National Liquid Milk Committee, fired a shot across the bow of Ireland’s liquid milk purchasing dairies and retailers in the wake of the shift in sourcing of the Tesco private label milk contract between Glanbia and some of the other dairies. Chairman Teddy Cashman said, “Our Committee members and the producer groups they represent are totally united on this issue: they do not want to see any of their dairies concede value back to retailers in a futile attempt to capture a temporarily greater share in a

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 January, 2016

mature, static consumer market, at the expense of remunerating liquid milk specialist producers sustainably”. “On behalf of Ireland’s 1,800 liquid milk producers, I call on dairies, the National Milk Agency (NMA) and the National Dairy Council (NDC) to ensure that, where a retailer sources private label milk from Republic of Ireland milk producers for sale to consumers as such, the following three conditions must apply: • the milk is sourced exclusively from producers contracted under the aus-

pices of the NMA; • the milk is produced and processed in the Republic of Ireland and the process is audited by the NDC to ensure the milk qualifies for the NDC mark; and, • the producers are remunerated adequately for the additional costs they incur in producing milk year-round, especially over the winter months. “Liquid milk represents approximately 8% of Ireland’s milk production, and it is valued at €530m per annum. It is also valued by consumers, who seek out and appreciate the fresh,

high-quality milk produced locally year-round by our 1,800 specialists, and whose diet and health at every age benefits from fresh dairy consumption,” Teddy Cashman added. “We must nurture this valuable sector, which can only be sustained by ensuring the specialist producers supplying it can make a viable living.We believe the NMA as regulators, and the NDC as the promotional body, must step up to secure the long- term sustainability of the sector by ensuring responsible behaviours by dairies and retailers,” he concluded.

Tide is turning on Lamb trade remains solid cattle prices IFA National Livestock Chairman Henry Burns said the tide is turning on cattle prices with supplies tightening rapidly and factories increasing prices to get numbers. He said prices have moved on with some deals of €4.00 base on steers and €4.10 base on heifers paid for this week. Henry Burns said feeders needed to dig in hard and demand a strong price increase at this stage. In general, he said the base for

steers is €3.95/4.00 and for heifers €4.05/4.10/kg. In addition, he said carcase weight is much less an issue with some of the big plants doing deals with no weight limit cuts. He said Bulls are making €3.70/3.80/3.90 O/R/Us with better offers in places. Cows are making from €3.15 to €3.60/kg, with €3.30 for Os and €3.50 for R grades.

IFA National Sheep Chairman John Lynskey has said the lamb trade remains solid with hoggets making €5.80/kg and top prices of €5.90/kg. He said Spring lamb numbers remain very low. Butchers are paying up to €7.00/kg and factory prices ranging from €6.60 to €6.80/kg. On weights, John Lynskey said after what has been a very difficult Spring so far, Spring lamb producers need to be getting weights up to 21kgs for April/May and increasing from June 1st.

Round-up … Warning to new Government on land designations LAUNCHING a poster campaign in Shannon Harbour, Co Offaly instructing National Parks & Wildlife and Birdwatch Ireland to keep off farmers’ land, IFA National Chairman Jer Bergin has said the new Government must address long-standing issues surrounding land designation. In a clear warning to the new Government, Jer Bergin said the imposition of environmental designations on farmers’ land has resulted in significant restrictions on farming activities and other developments. “When designations were first imposed, commitments were given that compensation would be paid where farmers suffered losses. However, in recent years these commitments have not been honoured.” The new Government will have to honour the existing agreement for the implementation of SACs and other designations, including proper consultation, a workable and truly independent appeals system, and full compensation to take account of devaluation of land, where restrictions are imposed. IFA SAC Project Team Chairman Tom Turley said the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Farm Plan Scheme will have to be available to all farmers who have a designation imposed on their land and the existing agreement on SACs has to be honoured. In relation to flooding,Tom Turley said the refusal of NPWS to allow remedial works to take place on rivers and turloughs has contributed to severe flooding in certain areas. He said,“Dredging and clearing of rivers will have to take place to alleviate the problems associated with flooding. NPWS cannot be allowed to stand in the way of this”. Tom Turley also pointed out that farmers who wish to plant forestry in areas designated for the hen harrier must be allowed to maximise the potential of their land. Also, existing restrictions that have impeded improvement and other development works in designated areas must be relaxed as they are adding to economic decline in rural areas.

A strong live export trade for calves is critical for beef sector and competition IFA National Livestock Chairman Henry Burns said a strong live export trade for calves is critically important to the beef sector and competition, particularly at this time of year. He said IFA has been working with the Department of Agriculture and live exporters to ensure that exports to Holland keep flowing. Henry Burns said IFA met the Department of Agriculture on live exports last week. He said the Department is in ongoing contact and discussions with their counterparts in Holland on any issues that have arisen and the trade continues. In addition, he said calf exports from Ireland to Holland meet the highest EU transport and welfare standards and Irish calves are in high demand from Dutch importers this time of year. The IFA Livestock leader said live exports of calves are up 87% this year at 19,431 head to mid-March when compared with last year. He said calf exports to Holland are up 52% to 7,478 head and exports to Spain are running at 9553 head. He said the major reduction in milk replacer costs this year is a big plus for the veal trade and should help drive demand. On a positive note for the live trade, Henry Burns confirmed that the Department of Agriculture had finalised and returned the

questionnaire on opening the live trade to Turkey. In addition, he said IFA had received enquiries from Turkish buyers interested in importing Irish cattle and were working with a number of exporters in progressing matters. He said opening the Turkish market for live exports from Ireland needs to be progressed at the highest political level.

IFA calls on Commissioner Hogan to intervene and halt the drive on Mercosur IFA National Chairman Jer Bergin has called on EU Agriculture Commissioner Phil Hogan to urgently intervene and prevent an exchange of offers on a trade deal between the EU and the Mercosur countries of South America. He said a Mercosur trade deal is unequivocally negative for Irish and European agriculture, and would particularly damage Ireland’s important beef sector. In addition, he added that pursuing a Mercosur trade deal would undermine the political credibility of EU/US negotiations on the TTIP. Jer Bergin said a Mercosur trade deal, which could result in the EU market being flooded with cheap beef from South America, is totally unacceptable. He said, “Production standards in South American countries such as Brazil fail to meet EU standards on the key issues of traceability, animal health and welfare controls, the ban on hormone growth promoters, and environmental controls”. He said an EU Commission analysis shows that a Mercosur deal would inflict losses of €7.8bn on the EU agriculture sector and he added that the real losses at farm level would be much higher, particularly for beef farmers. This would have a knock on effect in rural economies and lead to job losses. The IFA Chairman said the European agricultural policy environment has changed dramatically since the trade discussions with Mercosur were first launched as far back as 1999. He said the abolition of milk quotas last year has resulted in the expansion of the EU dairy herd, which is posing additional challenges for the beef sector. On climate change, he said the work of EU producers in reducing the carbon footprint of the livestock sector cannot be thrown overboard by importing large volumes of beef produced on the back of widespread destruction of the rainforests in Brazil. Jer Bergin said, “Ireland’s beef production is based on environmentally sustainable grassland production systems, which are between two and four times more efficient than South American production in terms of climate change and greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). It would be a total contradiction of EU climate change policy for Europe to agree a Mercosur deal that displaces sustainable EU beef production with product from South America, which has a much higher carbon footprint”. Jer Bergin said EU beef consumption has fallen by over 500,000t since 2010, in a market where cheap grain has increased the consumption of pig and poultry meat. The European market cannot absorb large volumes of imports without a very negative effect on prices and farm incomes. The IFA National Chairman called on Commissioner Hogan to insist on a new impact assessment of a Mercosur Trade deal for European Agriculture before proceeding with any discussions. In addition he said Commissioner Hogan will have to secure guarantees that agriculture and particularly our sensitive beef sector will be fully protected.

FARMING

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Ballyduff/Ballysaggart Chairman makes 50th Anniversary Presentation to Alex Heskin – Michael J. Walsh pictured with fellow branch members and Waterford Chairman John Fitzgerald making a presentation on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Farmers’ Right Campaign to Alex Heskin who walked to Dublin from his branch (Ballyduff/Ballysaggart). Alex has 50 years unbroken service with NFA/IFA having served at National, County and Branch level.

Attention all Waterford farmers final call for entry to 3rd annual Farmer of the Year Awards ZURICH Farm Insurance and Farming Independent are calling on Waterford farmers to make sure they’re in the running for the 3rd annual national Farmer of the Year Awards, due to take place in Dublin’s Ballsbridge Hotel on Friday May 20th. The Awards recognise excellence in the Irish farming industry and shine a light on one of the most successful and important sectors within the Irish economy. There are eight categories available for entry, as well as a Lifetime Achievement Award and a Grand Prix Award for the overall Farmer of the Year for 2016. Award winners will also share a prize fund of €20,000. The Awards are free to enter and farmers can nominate themselves or be nominated by a third party. Full details of categories and how to enter are available at www.farmeroftheyear.ie . Commenting on this year’s Awards, Michael Doyle, Head of Sales & Agri Business for Zurich Insurance commented, “We’re delighted to see the high level of interest so far in this year’s Farmer of the Year Awards, and would like to encourage all remaining potential applicants to submit their entries before this Friday’s deadline. With a wide range of categories, the Awards are

designed to recognise the diverse achievements and contributions of Ireland’s farmers. As one of the country’s leading providers of farm

insurance, we are proud to support all farming accomplishments, and look forward to seeing this year’s Waterford entries.” Entries will be accepted

online or by post and the closing date for entries is Sunday, April 17th, 2016. Zurich Insurance provides the complete farm insurance solution includ-

ing cover for Property, Livestock, Business Interruption, Liability, Agricultural Vehicles, Personal Accident and Farm Home.

ICSA challenges meat industry to come clean on Insurance costs ICSA B eef Chairman Edmond Phelan has reacted to the statement from Meat Industry Ireland which claims that factory “insurance” charges are in farmers’ own interest. Mr. Phelan said that, in light of the statement from the meat industry, processors should now move to provide complete transparency on the amount of money collected and the amount of benefit obtained by farmers from the so-called insurance charge. “ICSA would welcome evidence to back up the assertion that the charge was in farmers’ interest. The only way to demonstrate this is if factories as a group can provide figures on the value of money collected under the insurance charge and the amount of money paid out as a result of animals having unacceptable carcasses.” “If the amount of money collected is broadly similar to the amount paid out, then ICSA will accept the assertion that this is in farmers’ interests and advise accordingly. If however, no concrete evidence is produced, then we will have to conclude that the charge is more in the factories’ interest than the farmers’ interest.” “It would also help restore trust if the meat industry could explain why some factories charge up to €5 per prime animal (ie steers/ heifers) whereas other factories only charge €1.50 when there is virtually no difference in the price paid out per animal. Is there some deficiency in the handling process at factories where the charge is three times higher than the lowest?” Mr. Phelan is also seeking clarification over what exactly the PMC charge covers (post mortem contingency) and why this term is used if it is exactly the same thing as an insurance charge.

ICSA criticises exclusion of sheep fencing from next tranche of TAMS II

At the launch of the 2016 Zurich Farm Farming Independent Farmer of the Year Awards are Darragh McCullough, Assistant Editor, The Farming Independent; Noel McCall, The 2015 Farmer of the Year; Michael Doyle, Head of Sales & Agri Business, Zurich Insurance and Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Simon Coveney TD. The 2016 awards are open for entry at www.farmeroftheyear.ie

SHEEP Chairman of the Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers’ Association John Brooks has criticised the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine for failing to include sheep fencing in the next tranche of TAMS II, which opened for applications on March 26th, 2016. Of the decision, Mr. Brooks said “ICSA has continuously highlighted the need for sheep fencing to be incorporated into TAMS II. This was accepted by Minister Coveney and sheep fencing was to be included in tranche 2 however the necessary approvals have not been achieved in time. ICSA would like to know how this has been allowed to happen.” Continuing Mr. Brooks said “Sheep farmers have been neglected under Pillar II as there is no specific sheep scheme under the current Rural Development Programme. ICSA has long since been calling for such a scheme to be introduced and the time for excuses is over. Sheep farmers missing out again in TAMS only adds to their disappointment at being continuously overlooked.”

FARMING

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Teagasc TILLAGE Spring Barley The area of spring cereals, especially spring feed barley is likely to reduce again in 2016 due to low margins and the increased winter drillings. Growers are reminded to plan fertiliser and seed rate strategies before drilling commences. Predicted cereal crop margins for 2016 are significantly lower than 2015. 1. Seed The DAFM Seed certification laboratory indicates that germination percentages of spring cereal seed are very good and with very low disease levels. The usual care should be taken to consider any deterioration in seed quality during drying or storage on farm. Certified seed offers growers high germination capacity, purity of sample, free of weed seeds within tolerance levels and is treated against seed borne diseases. The DAFM has produced a comprehensive guide on seed certification which is available from their website under the Crops section.Where seed is home-saved then it is important that it is tested for germination, Micodochium (Fusarium) seedling blight, etc to ensure that it is suitable for use as seed. As seed health and size are excellent in 2016, use 85 % establishment for calculating 2016 seed rates and adjust according to field conditions. Use the following calculation to set your drill: Target Plant Population X TGW Estimated plant establishment % = seed rate in kg/ha E.g. if you are drilling Propino with a TGW of 50.9 g and you want to establish 280 plants/m2 with a germination test of 95% and you estimate potential field losses (pests, capping etc) to be 10% then you should drill 280 X 50.9 85 = 168 kg/ha Note: Increase seeding rates by 10% in heavier soil types to account for lower establishment and subsequent tillering. 2. Fertiliser • Apply lime as recommended based on a recent soil test result. Aim for a soil pH 6.5 for efficient N, P & K utilisation.

• Adjust P and K rates for high yields. • Select a suitable fertiliser to deliver sufficient seedbed N for early establishment and sufficient P and K for crop yield in single application. Apply recommended rates of P & K at sowing time and incorporate into the seedbed. Recent spring barley P trials indicate the benefits of placing P fertiliser on P Index 1 soils in terms of rapid root and tiller development. Nitrogen • Apply approximately 30% of the crops N requirements at sowing. • Apply remaining N at mid tillering or alternatively split the remaining crop N as follows ⅔ at early tillering and the remaining ⅓ by GS 31 / 32 to reduce the risk of N loss in feeding barley.

Suggested Nitrogen Strategy for feed barley 7.5t/ha crop: Crop Type Seedbed Mid Tillering gs 31/32 ---Feeding Barley Option 1 50kg/ha 105kg/ha (155kg/ha)1,2 Feeding Barley Option 2 50kg/ha 70kg/ha 35kg/ha (155kg/ha)1,2 1 Proof of higher grain yields greater than 6.5t/ha is required for additional N (20kg N/ha per 1 tonne). 2 Splitting the main N split for feeding barley (2⁄3:1⁄3) reduces risk of N losses (Option 2) IMPORTANT EVENT Teagasc Green Acres Calf to Beef Farm Walk A Teagasc Green Acres Calf to Beef farm walkwill take place on the farm of John Lalor, Ballyfin, Co. Laois on 12th April at 11.00 a.m. Meet at Ballyfin Church. John Lalor and his family, farm 100 Hectares of land at Cloneygowan, outside of Ballyfin, Co. Laois. The farm is a mixed farm with both tillage and calf to beef enterprises. John was in a suckler to beef production system up to a couple of years ago, but in 2014 he sold the last of his suckler cows and decided to concen-

trate solely on a dairy calf to beef enterprise. He had started rearing dairy bred calves a number of years previously and by 2014 had built the numbers reared up to 100. All the calves were purchased in the April/May period and were all Angus/Hereford heifers from the dairy herd. These calves were reared on milk replacer plus concentrate for the first ten weeks and then went to grass for their first grazing season. Having a tillage enterprise on the farm meant that John could sow forage rape on the tillage fields close to the yard.This crop provided John with a cheap wintering system for his weanlings as they had access to the crop but also a run back to a shed. Following a second year at grass the heifers were generally housed full time on a straw bed and built up to 6 -7 kgs of concentrates for finishing. Heifers were slaughtered from January to March out of the shed as they became fit.The later born and poorer performing animals were returned to grass and were slaughtered off grass in the June – July period. The plan for John over the course of the Teagasc Green Acres programme is to drive output on the farm and to try and sell more kilos of beef per hectare. In order to do this John has decided to make a few adjustments to his farming practises. A grassland plan has been put in place where John intends to make better use of grazed grass through the introduction of a paddock system, getting cattle out earlier and also reseeding some old pastures. Calves will be purchased earlier so that a stronger calf will go to grass in the first season, whilst also allowing some of the heifers to be slaughtered off grass before the second winter period. Due to the high cost of the Angus heifer calf and the lighter carcass at slaughter, John has decided to buy in some Friesian bull calves which will be castrated and slaughtered as bullocks from 26 – 28 months off grass in the third grazing season.This will allow John to reduce the cost of purchasing calves while also having a heavier carcass to sell. Teagasc advisers and specialists will outline the progress and the lessons learned to date on the Lalor farm. All are welcome.

Teagasc / Glanbia Low temperatures limit Monitor Farm grass growth on farms Focus Week Ending: 4/4/’16 Milk Kg/Day Fat % Protein % Milk Solids/Day KG Meal KG/Cow/Day Average Farm Cover Cover Per Cow Pre Grazing Yield KG DM Demand KG DM HA Growth KG DM HA

Grange, Waterford 26.2 4.27 3.21 1.96 5 393 196 1,800 12 14

Kilmacow, Kilkenny 23 4.56 3.56 1.9 5 315 1,200 30 12

Comments: Grange, Co. Waterford • Cows Vaccinate with Booster Lepto + BVD • Heifers got their 2nd vaccination of Lepto + BVD • Cows were indoors all last weekend • Getting grass for 2 to 3 hours after milking if possible Kilmacow, Kilkenny • Cows in since Friday • 2 ha of high cover left in 1st round • 5kgs meal + silage being fed indoors

DUE to the recent spate of poor weather, a number of farms have witnessed grass growth levels close to zero on some days. As a result, farmers have been forced to dip into their fodder reserves. "This is the reality of what is going on. Farmers are hoping that the weather will improve shortly," said Teagasc dairy specialist, George Ramsbottom. “Due to grass shortage, dairy farmers are being forced to supplement their herd’s diet with silage and meal to try and maintain milk solids. This has resulted in on-farm costs being driven up on farms this spring.” Varied grass regrowth levels have

been recorded in parts of the country, with Teagasc's PastureBase showing an average grass growth rate of 15kg Dry Matter per hectare per day (Kg DM/ha) on both Teagasc dairy research and commercial farms. “Typically it would be expected to see growth rates of almost double this at 25-30kg DM/ha per day in late March so that’s half of what we’d normally expect,” George explained. “The reason for such low growth rates is the low temperatures – a key driver of grass growth in early spring. Currently temperatures are averaging 7ºC on farms which is almost 2ºC lower than normal.”

“At this stage we should be seeing grass covers on the first grazed paddocks of 1,200kg DM/ha. In most cases we have only seen half of that, at 500-600kg DM/ha. Our advice to farmers is to keep Nitrogen spread in line with their annual fertiliser plan, and continue to supplement, while they wait for grass growth to catch up,” said George. Teagasc advises farmers to go back and look at the first fields grazed to decide if action needs to be taken. Speaking at the recent series of Teagasc Spring Grazing Farm Walks, George Ramsbottom said: ‘Walk the farm. Pay particular

Farm leaders need to get smart FARMERS are a divided group and should stop the arguing amongst ourselves as we are losing the battle as a divided group when it comes to getting a decent return on our work. Farming leaders need to be strong and must stop immediately taking levies from those we are fighting for margin on our produce. This would allow a farmer leader to lead and not be dictated to be others. The older farmer is also dictating the future of farming without taking account of the next generation’s needs. What is best for the older

farmer is sometimes the exact opposite as that of the young replacement farmer. Parish pump politics are also hindering putting fresh blood into the farming organisation as the older farmer has a tight grip in control at the top. We as farmers are now in a very uncertain future as there is a firm agenda now to load young farmers with more debt. All this has come about by not having structures in place to protect our margin on the food we produce. We now have the ludicrous situation that those who handle our

produce can make substantial turn around profit after a short period of time. The large debt culture that exists in other countries must be allowed to get a foothold here as the young farmers will walk away in droves and I for one wouldn’t blame them as they are faced with doing long hours of work for little reward. It is now imperative that the farming leaders need to sit in one room and stop this from happening. We have lost many battles on price for our produce and now we are going to lose the war if we sit idly by.

attention to the covers on the early grazed paddocks. Firstly, maintain a rotation length over the whole of the grazing platform of at least 20 days. Supplement with silage and meal to feed the cows adequately.” “When the recovery commences, phase out the silage feeding first and you should see an increase in grass intake by the cow and protein per cent in the milk. Then as grass covers increase, reduce the amount of meal fed. Thirdly, start to close up fields for silage. The last thing we want to do is to sacrifice body condition of the dairy cows just before the breeding season begins,” George explained.

Ballyduff / Ballysaggart Macra THE club recently attended the Titles night hosted by Cappoquin Macra, where our Chairperson Ailín Walsh was chosen to represent the County in the Miss Macra Competition taking place this August. The next Macra meeting will take place on Friday, April 15th in Ballysaggart, time and venue to be confirmed. As always all new members welcome. A reminder we will be hosting our first event. A Quiz on Friday, April 8th at 8.30 p.m. with DJ afterwards, €20 for table of 4, hope to see you all there.

FARMING

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

IFA and Pieta House provide support to farmers through ‘Mind Our Farm Families’ phone line IFA has been working with Pieta House since 2011 to provide information and support to farmers and their families through the ‘Mind Our Farm Families’ phone line and counselling service. The 1890 130 022 phone line puts farmers who are feeling suicidal, or their families, in direct contact with a Pieta House trained therapist who can listen and will make an appointment in one of their nine centres, if needed. The therapist will provide a compassionate, solution focussed, one-to-one counselling service completely free of charge. The ‘Mind Our Farm Families’ phone line provides support not just to the person who is feeling suicidal but to concerned family members or friends.

IFA Farm Family Chairperson Maura Canning said, “We want to make sure that farmers and their families have an outlet to talk - for a lot of people just talking, sharing their pain is almost like a weight being lifted from their shoulders. We know that rural populations are more at risk of suicide than urban communities and the rate tends to escalate with levels of rural remoteness. An estimated 13% of those who die from suicide are from an agricultural background. Internationally, men have been shown to be three times more likely to commit suicide than women – in Ireland, that figure rises to four-times more likely. “About 70% of the people who come to Pieta

House have no history of mental illness; they are simply reacting to life events. For farm families, economic difficulties, trying to cope with increased regulation, increased price volatility and falling incomes, are very challenging. These issues have been shown to be particularly challenging for male farmers who identify their masculinity with providing for their families.” Maura Canning encouraged anybody with a concern about a family member or friend to reach out. She said, “The most common signs that someone may be in distress are that they are withdrawing from social situations, not answering their phone or accepting visitors, noticeable deterioration in the condition of the farm or the

care of animals, possibly increased use of alcohol or drugs as well as behavioural changes such as emotional outbursts, changes in sleep or loss of appetite. It is often the use of language that can be the most telling sign, phrases such as ‘my family would be better off without me’ or ‘I see no light at the end of the tunnel’”. The Mind Our Farm Families phone line 1890 130 022 is accessible Monday to Friday from 9.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. and on Saturdays from 10.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m. Outside of these hours The Samaritans on 116 123 and Console on 1800 247 247 provide 24 hour support. Console also provides a support service for families bereaved by suicide.

IFA reaction to EPA Water Quality Results IFA Environment Chairman Thomas Cooney has described the latest EPA water quality results as an example of what investment and hard work can achieve. The results show that 93% of our bathing waters around the country are classified as being in either excellent or good condition. He said the outcome shows that the

vast majority of the country’s most popular beaches and lakes are clear and clean. Thomas Cooney identified the significant investment by farmers as playing a part in achieving this result. “Farmyard storage and control of effluent has improved dramatically as a result of the investment of over €2bn

Dungarvan Mart Report DRY COWS 1 Fr. 775 kgs. made €1,170. 1 Fr. 650 kgs. made €1,120. 1 Fr. 725 kgs. made €1,075. BULLOCKS 5 A.A. 592 kgs. made €1,330 each. 3 Char. 520 kgs. made €1,230 each. 1 Her. 575 kgs. made €1,210. 6 Lim. 342 kgs. made €820 each. 10 A.A. 348 kgs. made €790 each. 7 Her. 343 kgs. made €795 each. HEIFERS 1 Char. 540 kgs. made €1,220. 9 Char, 407 kgs. made €935 each. 2 Char. 487 kgs. made €1,030 each. 5 A.A. 255 kgs. made €605 each. 2 Sim. 412 kgs. made €985 each. Suckler Cows with Calves at foot made from €1,130 to €1,530.

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in the last 10 years. Farmers recognise the value of a clean environment and will continue to work towards the highest standards.” Mr. Cooney said Government support for agri-environment programmes for farmers will be critical to maintain this high level of clean bathing water.

READER’S QUERIES New research on managing organic fertilizers

Question: I signed up for tranche 1 of GLAS last year. I chose to put in some wild bird cover. However, my son spotted that you can now use barley as a cereal and has decided we will use it for the wild bird cover. I would much prefer oats myself as there was always a few oats grown here in times gone by and they always did well. If we are unhappy with how the barley turns out is it possible to change the cereal to oats for next year? Can you please advise? Answer: Most farmers in times gone by grew a few oats as there was always a horse or two about. The idea behind the wild bird cover isn’t so much crop production but rather a food source and cover for birds and wildlife so barley, oats or wheat should be “much of a muchness” really.You must replace the cereal each year so if you feel that the barley isn’t up to the job then you can try oats next year. I trust this will clear things up for you. Tip of the Week: BPS 2016 maps have begun to arrive by post. Have a look over them to ensure parcel and GLAS boundaries are accurate before contacting your adviser.

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.

RECENT research from the Teagasc Agricultural Catchments Programme found that there was little evidence of livestock slurry in streams following the end of the ‘closed period’ for slurry spreading. This means that farmers either weren’t spreading slurry at this time, or were spreading it on the parts of their farms where it was less likely to be washed off. There were, however, some signals of livestock slurry in runoff at the start of the closed period, in some of the studied catchments. This occurred when early autumn storms quickly followed the last few days of the ‘open period’. These signals were also found during the particularly wet summer of 2012 when soils were wet and storms coincided with normal summer slurry spreading. There was also evidence of other nutrient losses during the closed period and the analysis suggested these were from residual soil sources rather than recently spread livestock slurry. This shows the potential for nutrients that were spread in earlier years, or even decades, to be lost to water now, and into the future. Farmers can reduce nutrient losses during this wetter period by using a management approach that combines the closed period with good nutrient management planning to maintain efficient nutrient use for production. Good management of livestock manures in the growing season is also part of this approach and will decrease the risk to water quality if applied well before the start of the closed period. To help farmers, the Teagasc scientific paper suggests more specific weather and soil condition forecasting, especially during the open period for fertilizer applications. The closed periods for spreading both artificial and organic fertilizers were introduced across the Republic of Ireland in 2006 under the EU Nitrates Directive. The duration of these periods vary across three zones and are longer further north. The closed period for slurry application begins on 15th October and ends between the 12th and 31st of January, depending on these zones. For more see www.teagasc.ie

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Movie Reviews In association with SGC Dungarvan

My Big Fat Greek Wedding 2 Review by Victor J. Murphy

Suzy Campbell, Alianna Walsh, Joe Campbell and Kelly Campbell pictured at the annual Ballinamult Cadbury Easter Egg Hunt in aid of Barnardos. The local event was one of 25 community events taking place across Ireland this Easter in support of Barnardos. People can still support Barnardos by texting ‘BARNARDOS’ to 50300 to donate €4* to a very worthy cause! *100% of your donation goes to Barnardos across most network operators. Some operators apply VAT which means that a minimum of €3.25 will go to Barnardos. Service Provider: LIKECHARITY. Helpline: 0766805278. [Leo Murphy]

Crossword

THROUGH all the laughter and all the smiles I see a pattern in this motion picture. This is about a mother who has built her community in her family.They all live on the same road, work in the same shop and go to the same church. It is based in a leafy midwest suburb of Chicago but could easily be in Sixmilebridge, Co. Clare as these communities often mirror one another in nature and its set in the post economic collapse of late 2008, early 2009. There are four groups in this film, Toula played by Nia Vardalos (also the writer of the script) and her Greek family, the husband Ian (John Corbett), daughter Paris (Elena Kampouris) and us the patrons of the film. From the very start we see the grandfather tell his daughter Toula that Paris should marry/

be married to a good Greek boy. It is from this point on I see the mothers desperation on how to balance her life with her daughter and her life with her family, with work and family commitments.The comical part of this is that the grandfather and grandmothers marriage certificate wasn’t signed by the Solemniser all those years ago. It all rests on Toula to arrange the marriage ceremony for her own parents. Meanwhile, she wants her daughter to go to Chicago University and not leave for New York. So our hero has to organise the wedding, she must battle with her family to earn their respect, and convince Paris to stay. There is a tad bit of slap stick humour that draws us in and makes us like that we are part of this lovable family. If ever there was a guide on how not to organise a wedding then this would be it, as it revivals any episode of Don’t Tell the Bride. 3/5

Léirmheas Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice Review by Natalia Danzmann

April 10 16 Aries March 20th April 19th

Taurus April 20th May 20th

Gemini ACROSS 1 Fruit from a particular palm tree (4) 3 Frenzied drummer in The Muppet Show (6) 9 Of a difficulty or problem, resolved (6,3) 10 British brand of fridges and freezers (3) 11 _ the Wisp, cartoon series originally made in 1981 (5) 12 Rural guerrilla bands of French Resistance fighters in World War II (6) 15 Name of several American banks in various locations over the years (5,8) 17 Blue _ , British missile that never reached full production (6) 18 East Midlands city, a birthplace of the Industrial Revolution (5) 21 An exclamation of alarm or surprise (3) 22 Carry On _ , the fourth film in the series (9) 23 Anagram of MONDAY (6) 24 Of horses, not barefoot (4) DOWN 1 Amusing (5) 2 Term representing heavy drinking (3,6) 4 Keep _ , Australian expression meaning keep watch (3) 5 A vertical bar between window panes (7) 6 _ Worsley, curator and television presenter (4) 7 Person called in the title of a television series (7) 8 Name for a British soldier, dating back to at least 1743 (5,6) 13 Game played between two teams of seven players riding flying broomsticks (9) 14 An enclosure for infants (7) 16 Of an exam, sat again (7) 19 Fanatical or affected with a particular disease (5) 20 An item in a rosary (4) 22 River on which university students can be seen punting (3)

SOLUTION

May 21st June 20th

Cancer June 21st July 22nd

Leo July 23rd August 22nd

Virgo August 23rd September 22nd

Libra September 23rd October 22nd

Scorpio October 23rd November 21st

ITH spring in the air, you re feeling great. A career opportunity is about to come your way and it s up to you to make the most of it. Cunning subtlety will always outdo brute force.

HIS week signals a turning point in your love life which you will never forget. Only then will you realise what it is you ve been missing out on all this time.

OUR partner is about to tell you something you ve been wanting to hear for ages. Don t question their sudden change of attitude but simply accept and enjoy it for what it is.

FAMILY gathering over the weekend could prove financially rewarding. You re going through a lucky phase at the moment use your luck to make the most out of every situation.

OUR love life is sizzling! And it s only going to get better. But don t forget you can have too much of a good thing, and taking what you ve got for granted will spell trouble in the long-term.

N old flame who treated you badly may call you this week asking to see you again with no strings attached . Don t have any of it as their intentions aren t as innocent as they say.

OCIALISING is the name of the game this week. You will receive more invitations than normal. Take as many offers as you can because they may lead to romantic opportunities.

FRIEND you ve fancied for a long time will make subtle hints that they feel the same way towards you. Giving them the right messages could result in what you ve both been wanting for ages.

Sagittarius

Capricorn

E prepared should be your motto this week, because something out of the ordinary is going to happen to your love life. By expecting the unexpected, you ll end up on top of things.

UMMER is just around the corner and so is a

romantic encounter if you play your cards right. November An outing with friends could get you introduced to 22nd December 21st someone who s as up for it as you. December 22nd January 19th

HE last couple of weeks have been tough for you, Aquarius but that s all set to change. January 20th Someone close to your heart will change the February 18th way you see things putting you back on track.

Aquarius

Pisces

February 19th March 19th

OU RE loyal by nature, and if you re in a relationship, you ll need to use every bit of that loyalty later in the week. A temptation will be coming your way which will be hard to refuse.

AR dtús báire, níl sé éasca an scannán a thuiscint gan eolas a bheith agat fé cúlra Batman agus cúlra Superman chomh maith céanna. Dá bharr, cé go bhfuil an scannán seo oiriúnach do pháistí os cionn 13 d’aois, d’fhéadfadh leis an scéal sa gcúlra bheith doiléir dóibh siúd atá ag féachaint ar na sárlaochra seo den chéad uair riamh.Tosaíonn an scannán le radharc na reilige nuair a bhí tuismitheoirí Batman curtha ann, agus díreach i ndiaidh san, feictear radharc eile leis an lá a tháinig Superman “ón spéir”. I rith an dá radharc san, chuireadh béim ar na drochrudaí a tharla mar thoradh ar an dá ócáid, ionas go mbeadh atmaisféar dorcha le héiginnteacht ann an scannán ar fad: an droch-dhaoine iad Superman agus Batman i ndáiríre? Ag an am céanna, molaim an bhealach a phléitear le coincheap an “laoch” mar bhagairt agus beannacht in aon carachtair amháin, ach tá amhras orm fén bhealach a bhí sé déanta sa scannán seo fé leith. Cuirtear béim ar an chéad uair a tháinig Superman ar an domhain seo mar chúis le timpist mór agus fadhbanna do dhaoine neamhchiontacha, agus dá bharr sin creideann an-chuid daoine go bhfuil Superman ciontach as an sceimhlitheoireacht a bhí déanta le déanaí, i ndáiríre, ag a namhaid – Lex Luthor. Ní dhéanann sé sin ciall mar gheall ar an méid a tharla cheana féin roimh an scannán seo: bhí muinín ag formhór daoine as Superman i gcónaí, agus dá mbeadh an méid sin amhras ann, ba cheart don amhras teacht orthu i bhfad níos luaithe san amlíne. Sin ráite, tuigim an eagla roimh an iomarca cumhacht a thabhairt do dhuine amháin – seachas nach duine é Superman, tháinig sé ó phlainéad eile. Ó thaobh Batman de, d’fhéadfá “halo” a chur air ag tús an scannáin mar fíor-laoch atá

ag iarraidh fadhb Superman a réitiú agus an chumhacht a bhaint uaidh – fiú mura n-aontaíonn gach duine le Batman ach oiread agus a bhealach foréigneach, cruálach le bearta a ghlacadh ar son an cirt. Ach ag deireadh na scannáin, nuair a bhfeictear cé chomh holc is atá Lex Luthor i ndáiríre tar éis dó ollphéist a chruthú, tagann droch-chuma ar Batman mar dhuine daonna a dhéanann botúin. Bhí dul amú air fé Superman, agus tosaíonn sé ag troid ar a shon. Go ginearálta, is scannán iontach spraoiúil é seo, lán leis na héifeachtaí speisialta den chéad scoth agus rannpháirtíocht bheag Wonder Woman chomh maith (sa gcogadh deireanach in aghaidh an ollphéist Lex Luthor). Aisteoirí maithe iad ar fad a bhí páirteach ann, go háirithe Jesse Eisenberg ag déanamh an namhaid Lex Luthor le drámaíocht fíor-chliste – craiceáilte go leor gan a bheith ró-áiféiseach. Seans maith go dtaitneoidh sé leis an bpobal mór cé is moite de na botúin sa scéal. 3/5

Calamity Jane (Sing-A-Long) Saturday, 9th April at 8.30 p.m. DIRECTOR: David Butler. Starring: Doris Day, Howard Keel. Synopsis: Calamity Jane, Warner Bros. Pictures sky highest, smile widest, wild and woolliest Western of ‘em all, returns to cinemas for a special sing-a-long screening. Starring Doris Day as the titular gun-toting, whip-cracking wild west whirlwind, Calamity Jane takes place deep in Dakota territory, in Deadwood City, largely the abode of men. But Calamity Jane is as good, if not better,

than any man around. When Jane promises to save the reputation of the local saloon by recruiting a beautiful singer all the way from Chicago, she gets more than she bargained for when the pretty new arrival catches the eye of Wild Bill Hickok and Jane’s sweetheart, Lieutenant Danny Gilmartin. Based on the tumultuous life of the real life legend, this Calamity Jane Sing-ALong promises a rootin’-tootin’ good time for all.

Across: 1 Date, 3 Animal, 9 Ironed out, 10 Lec, 11 Willo, 12 Maquis, 15 First National, 17 Streak, 18 Derby, 21 Eek, 22 Constable, 23 Dynamo, 24 Shod. Down: 1 Droll, 2 The bottle, 4 Nit, 5 Mullion, 6 Lucy, 7 Midwife, 8 Tommy Atkins, 13 Quidditch, 14 Playpen, 16 Retaken, 19 Rabid, 20 Bead, 22 Cam.

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Nightlife in Dungar van

Photographs by Sarah Heffernan

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Paddy O’Brien

Marty Daniels

Louise Morrissey

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Kathy Durkin

John Hogan

Gary Gamble

Daniel O Double

Country Music Stars come to Cappoquin CAPPOQUIN Goes Country with its stellar line-up of country greats is definitely an unmissable night for all fans of Irish Country Music at the Cappoquin Community Centre on Saturday, 9th April. The countdown is on to this starstudded concert featuring Ireland’s Country Greats Louise Morrissey, Brendan Gloria, Paddy O’Brien, Quinn, Kathy Durkin, Daniel O Double, John Hogan, Marty Daniels and introducing Stephen Stokes making this the best ever line up of country music artists in one show on the same night. Top class musicians from The Ryan Turner Band will provide backing for all the artists as they gather at Cappoquin Community Centre.

! WIN

Don’t miss your chance to mingle with the stars and enjoy 3 hours of wonderful entertainment as you reminisce and sing along with the Artist’s many hit songs such as “Tipperary on my mind”, “One Day at a Time”, “Never Grow Old” “Working Man”, “The Door is always open” “Out to California” and many many more. Tickets for this exclusive concert are now on sale price €25 from Cappoquin Community Centre Reception 058 52746, Ferrick’s Pharmacy (Cappoquin) 058 54165, Noel Devereux Manshop (Dungarvan) 058 41113 and Ballyrafter Service Station (Lismore) 058 54665 and at the door on the night. Show 8.30 p.m. Don’t miss the concert of the year!

GISELLE @ SGC Dungarvan

WIN

Royal Ballet: Giselle (Live from The Royal Ballet) Wednesday, 23rd April, at 7.15 p.m. Giselle is the quintessential Romantic classic, a love affair that begins in the real world and continues beyond the grave. The ballet’s title role also offers one of the great challenges of the ballet repertory, as Giselle transforms from an innocent peasant girl, duped into love, to a forgiving spirit who saves her lover from death. For the ballerina this is a role of two contrasting halves: in Act I she must appear naïve and artless, her dancing alive with an earthy enthusiasm; in Act II she transforms into light and air, her dancing so ethereal as to seem weightless. In Peter Wright’s production, the dual aspect of the ballet is perfectly achieved: the first act dramatized in rich, naturalistic detail and the second with a spectral, moonlit beauty. 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 Giselle Competition, Dungarvan Observer, Shandon, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford, on or before 12 noon on Tuesday, 19th April. Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

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✄ Question: What time is Giselle the Ballet on in the cinema?

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Friday 8th – Thursday 14th FILM INFORMATION AND BOOKING LINE 058 45796 www.sgcdungarvan.ie A P R I L & M AY E V E N T S – N O W B O O K I N G CALAMITY JANE

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THIS WEEK!

WHO IS DERVLA MURPHY (Premiere) Debut public screening exclusively at SGC Dungarvan & Movies@Dundrum EXCLUSIVE!

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O L D PA R I S H 058-46267 Saturday, 9th April :–

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Saturday, 9th April

APRIL 12th

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Usher’s Island for The Park Hotel USHER’S Island sees the coming together of five of the most influential and acclaimed names in traditional Irish music- Andy Irvine and Donal Lunny, both founding members of Planxty, Paddy Glackin a member of The Bothy Band, Mike McGoldrick member of Lunasa and Capercaillie and John Doyle who played with Solas. Each of course is a talented solist in their own right but in this new band they offer a blend of old and young and of vocal and instrumental talents. Andy Irvine is one of the great Irish singers, his voice one of a handful of truly great ones that gets to the very soul of Ireland. He has been hailed as “a tradition in himself.” Musician, singer and songwriter, Andy has maintained his highly individual performing skills throughout his 45-year career. From Sweeney’s Men in the mid 60s, to the enormous success of Planxty in the 70s and then from Patrick Street to Andy Irvine & Dónal Lunny’s Mozaik, Andy has been a world music pioneer and an icon for traditional music and musicians. Dónal Lunny is popularly regarded as having being central to the renaissance of Irish Music over the last three decades. Since the seventies Dónal has had involvement with some of the most innovative bands to emerge from Ireland including Planxty, the Bothy Band, Moving Hearts, Coolfin, and more recently Mozaik. He has toured across the world, collaborating with musicians of many different cultures. Dónal co-founded Mulligan Records and produced

17 albums for the label. Since then he has produced tracks for, and collaborated on albums with Kate Bush, Mark Knopfler, Indigo Girls, Clannad, and Baaba Maal among others. He produced the internationally acclaimed album for EMI, ‘Common Ground’, featuring such artists as Bono, Neil and Tim Finn, and Elvis Costello. As a co-founder of best-selling Irish instrumental outfit Lúnasa and current member of Celtic favorites Capercaillie, flute-player and piper Michael McGoldrick has played a great part in expanding the audience for instrumental music from Ireland and Scotland with his expert technique and visionary sensibilities. His genius for wedding traditional styles with contemporary textures has made him a welcomed contributor to albums and performances by such acclaimed contemporary roots artists as Kate Rusby, Sharon Shannon, the Afro-Celt Sound System and Youssou N’Dour. While not gigging with Usher’s Island Mike currently plays in Mark Knopfler’s touring band. A founding member of the Bothy Band, fiddler Paddy Glackin left to pursue a solo career shortly before the band launched their first album. Nevertheless, Glackin has continued to explore the fiddling of Ireland as a soloist and in collaboration with uilleann piper Robbie Hannan, multi-instrumentalist Donal Lunny, guitarist Michael O Domhnaill and fiddler Paddy Keenan. Glackin‘s fiddling can also be heard on recordings by Van Morrison, Kate Bush and

John Cage. Born and raised in Dublin Glackin was weaned on the Donegal style of fiddling played by his father, Tom. He was equally influenced by the playing of John Doherty, an itinerant fiddler from Donegal. John Doyle is one of the most influential and important musicians in Irish music today. He was a founding member of Irish American supergroup Solas in the 1990s and recently served as band leader for the Joan Baez band. As a guitarist, he is unparalleled for his harmonic and rhythmic genius. His instrumental prowess contributed to his 2010 GRAMMY nomination for Best Traditional World Music album for his collaboration with fiddler Liz Carroll on Double Play. In recent years Doyle has emerged as an important singer of Irish music as well; his 2010 collaboration, Exiles Return, with Karan Casey won him critical acclaim and solidified his reputation as a world class interpreter of traditional songs. Usher’s Island will be appearing at The Park Hotel, Dungarvan, on Friday, 8th April. Doors open at 8.00 p.m. and tickets are €20. Tickets available at The Local, Grattan Square, Dungarvan (058-41854) and The Park Hotel (058-42899).

Incorp. Munster Industrial Advocate Vol. 102 (Reg. in GPO as a Newspaper) Shandon, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford. Tel: (058) 41205 / 42042. Fax: (058) 41559.

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Liverpool visitors enjoy our hospitality LAST weekend, The Park Hotel, Dungarvan, resounded to the sound of traditional music, the clatter of the hard shoe beating the dance-floor and the sweet singers of two groups who have been getting together for over forty years. Yes, the Irish had come again from Liverpool, the annual gathering with their cultural counterparts of Sliabh gCua which has grown ever stronger over the four decades of their friendship. That friendship now transcends four generations, going back to the ’Forties when the late Tommy Walsh, legendary Manager of the Irish Centre in Liverpool and a towering figure in Irish affairs all around Britain came on holiday each year

with his parents to the Colligan Chalets. After some years, they met with Monnie and Breda Hallahan and the musicians, singers and dancers of the Sliabh gCua area. Tommy was so impressed with the talent in the area that he invited over the All Ireland Set Dancing Champions, Sliabh gCua, to St. Michael’s Irish Centre. From that first visit, the visiting group grew from just the set, to a full coach of enthusiasts and a friendship and collaboration developed which has continued between Liverpool and Sliabh gCua ever since. One of the leaders of the group for some years past and a visiting dancer from her childhood has been Tommy Walsh’s daughter Kathleen Walsh Cunning-

ham, who promotes a dancing school in St. Michael’s Centre in Liverpool and whose dancers are delighted to come to one of the friendliest and most beautiful parts of Ireland. “We have about fiftyfive visitors over this year,” she told me last Sunday night after the lively shared concert had concluded. As well as the Sliabh gCua contingent, the programme had included the fifteen dancers, six musicians and various other performers from Liverpool, watched by their families and other visitors who had crossed the Irish Sea for a very pleasant and relaxing weekend. “This is always such a pleasant visit,” she said.“We are making memories for all these young people this

Bringing back the sailing boats WHILE April weather has proved to be something of a disappointment so far, we look forward to the prospect of some better weather in the traditional months of late Spring and Summer. Last Saturday, about half of the Sailing Club yachts and sail boats went back into the waters of the Quay, not in the bright, sunny and balmy conditions of earlier in the week, but in the miserable continuous rain which spoiled much of the weekend.

However, fourteen boats made it to the water last Saturday to be joined by their companions next weekend and once again, the Harbour will be fully decorated with masts and sails and resplendent for photographs of locals and visitors alike. The Quay looks forlorn without the boats bobbing at anchor, or lying on their sides at low tide, but at either extremity when the sun shines, it makes a heavenly photograph. Vice Commodore of

Dungarvan Harbour Sailing Club, Austin Flynn is looking forward to a full calendar of activities for the Club and shortly, when the programme gets under way the murky Saturday weather will be forgotten as the sun glitters through the spray rising from the bows as the boats slice their way through the waters of the Bay. Roll on sunny Sundays with long evenings and a favourable breeze. What more could a sailor ask for?

The first of the boats came back to the Quay.

weekend. I was brought over first at just a few months old and remember as a child enjoying our trip to Ireland meeting friends and running around the corridors of the hotel just as our children are doing today. I want all of those young people to have their memories just as I do and it is even easier to stay in touch today via the phone and social media. “We are not a highly competitive dance school,” says Kathleen, “we have the Bolger-Cunningham Dance School in the Irish Centre of which I am one teacher and the other is the lady is Mrs. Bolger who taught me my dancing through my childhood. “Dancing has become far more competitive than when I was a young dancer,” she says. “If my

students wish to take part in competitions I help them, but I do not push anyone in that direction.To reach the top flight in competitions takes hours of practice daily and our school does not offer that.” What is on offer is a

good grounding in Irish culture with an emphasis on dancing, a knowledge of our history and an opportunity to experience good Dungarvan hospitality every year all in a happy and enjoyable environment.

As I left The Park Hotel, the nostalgic strains of Liverpool Lou were resounding through the corridors, assisted by voices from both sides of the Irish Sea happily immersed in the culture of the homeland.

The Members of the Bolger – Cunningham Dancing School from Liverpool who visited Dungarvan last weekend with family and friends and under the guidance of their teachers at St. Michael’s Irish Centre: Kathleen Walsh-Cunningham (left), Nuala Doyle (centre) and Katie Lucas (right).

Vol. 104

Friday, 8th April, 2016

SPORT

sport@dungarvanobserver.ie

Wa te r fo rd Se n i o r L a d i es ove r c o m e D ow n

Ladies Gaelic Footblal Association National League at Ardmore. Waterford's Lauren McGregor checks out her options during the Ladies Football National League game played at Ardmore against Down. SEE PAGE 9. [Dan McGrath/Editorial Images]

JOE GOUGH TAKES GOLD AT EUROPEAN MASTERS IN ITALY PAGE 3

LEAGUE TITLE RETENTION REMAINS ON TRACK BUT ONLY JUST

FOOTBALLERS GRIND OUT DESERVING NATIONAL LEAGUE VICTORY

PAGE 6

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WEST WATERFORD AC

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Mason Financial Colligan Spring Running League kicks-off ROUND 1 of the Mason Financial Colligan Spring League took place last Wednesday evening in the beautiful surroundings of Colligan Wood. The league was a few weeks later starting this year as it was decided to wait until the clocks changed making it safer for the runners with more light with the extra hour, this proved to be a wise move as an excellent turnout were present. We got underway at 6.30 p.m. in the presence of our league sponsor Mark Mason. A total of 18 runners completed the 2 laps. We had 13 who ran the 5 mile flat course which is 3½ laps of the Wood and road and finally 50 took on the challenging 5 mile hill route. This league will continue for the next 3 Wednesday evenings (April 6th, 13th and 20th) so no excuses folks why not come along and give it a go for yourself if you missed the first evening, you can still join, just come to the club van at the Wooden Bridge around 6.15 p.m. and we will get you started. 2 LAP CHALLENGE LEAD HOME BY NOEL HOGAN Our Colligan league as with all West Waterford AC events is open to all comers and this is the case for the Mason league this year which had its first Wednesday night of four last week on an evening which was a good for running! The clock had gone forward as we said and with a 6:30 pm start we were all be home and showered before the Sun

set. The two lap challenge is gearded towards beginners and we were delighted to see 18 runners sign up on the first night and they were led home by Noel Hogan running a very good time of 19:22. Noel was followed by Michael Moynihan who was just over the 20 min mark - 20:04 and in 3rd was Michelle Cunningham who clocked 23:00 on the button. Well done to Linda Bradfield, Kate Tobin and Judith McNally who kept each other company on route and finished in 29:13. We have plenty of room on this route form lots more so spread the word Colligan is the place to be for the next three Wednesday evenings. 5 MILE FLAT COURSE SEES CLOSE FINISH The 5 mile flat was led home by Kate Veale who was pushed all the way by James Whelan with Kate holding on by just 3 seconds to claim first place on the night. Kate clocked 36:14 and James 36:17 – well done to both on a great time in the first week. There was 13 athletes completed this route with Rita Cronolly, Irene Dee, Marian Keane and Helene Hayes all keeping each other motivated and crossed the finish line together in 54:04. Well done girls and well done to all who took part in week 1, just keep up the effort now guys for the next 3 weeks lads it will be worth it.

KEVIN KENNEALLY LEADS HOME 5 MILE HILLS GROUP The biggest entry of the night goes to the 5 mile hills with a very impressive 50 athletes taking on this tough challenge. Kevin Kennelly rocked home first with a very impressive time of 31:13 but he hadn't it all his own way as he was followed closely behind by Mossie Keogh in 31:30. Brothers Cian and Shane O’Riordan finishing 3rd and 4th both clocked 32:44 and no doubt each pushing the other to the finish line. Trevor Mason had a very good run finishing in 34:43 as did Cathal Gleeson 38:07, Laura Flavin 38:18, Liam Clinch 41:09 and Darren Coogan in 42:23. It is nice to have company along the way and again finishing together were Fiona Ormond and Tricia Cullinane crossing the finish line tired but happy in 51:04!! Well done to each and every athlete who ran the Colligan Hills. It is not easy but very rewarding to cross the finish line. See you all this Wednesday for round 2. SPONSORS AND THANK YOU Once again thanks to Mark Mason of Mason Financial, Barrack St., Cappoquin for his kind sponsorship and also for his attendance at the league each year. As always thank you to, Shirley, Mick, Ray, Gerry and John for all their help on the night.

22nd Annual Ger Wyley Sports/Skins Summer Series 2016 MTS Broadband sponsored Ballinroad 5k in association with Ballinroad Soccer Club kicks-off Summer Series Friday evening THIS coming Friday, April 8th sees the start of the Ger Wyley Sports/Nike summer series for 2016 when the 3rd Annual MTS Media Ballinroad 5k will get this year's series underway. This year once again we are delighted to be able to help and support the local community in Ballinroad as the local soccer club Ballinroad AFC realise their long time dream of having an Astro playing pitch. This dream is now in full bloom as the project is nearing completion which will be a huge benefit to the club and the area in general. The race will incorporate a fun run/walk with all proceeds from them going towards the clubs fund for this project. Starting at 7.00 p.m. with Ballinroad Community Hall as the race HQ. A huge turn-out is expected if last year is anything to go by as we deem the race to be the fastest flattest 5k course around. Our sincere thanks to club committee member John Coleman of MTS Broadband for attaining the sponsorship for this race. As you know in West Waterford AC we like to cater for all and have different prize structures in all our races, for the Ballinroad race we will have prizes for the top 5 men

and women with lots and lots of spots for down the field finishers and for only a €5 pre entry fee we will have chip timing at no added cost to you the runners. But remember you must enter online to avail of the €5 entry otherwise its €8 on the night. The course chosen for the race is an excellent out and back course which is very flat so if your first attempt at the 5k distance or you’re looking for a fast time on a flat- fast course this is your opportunity to shine. Please note car parking is limited and there will be no parking ion the road way, we have parking at Dungarvan Rugby Club grounds by kind permission but again this will be full early, please try and park away from race HQ. GER WYLEY SPORTS/SKINS SUMMER SERIES 2016 3rd ANNUAL M. T. S. MEDIA BALLINROAD 5K IN ASSOCIATION WITH BALLINROAD SOCCER CLUB Enter Ballinroad M.T.S.Media 5k online now on active works or via West Waterford Athletic Club website ! On "upcoming fixtures" under Ballinroad 5k click

"enter". Numbers can be collected on the evening of race. This race will cost €5 to enter online but if you wait until the night of the race the entry fee will be €8. Here is the link to enter https://endurancecui.active. IMPORTANT PARKING NOTICE FOR BALLINROAD 5K We ask those travelling by car to Friday evenings race to use Dungarvan Rugby Club grounds as an car park (by kind permission). There will strictly be no parking allowed on the road. We urge athletes to please observe the parking restrictions and if possible to park away from the race HQ if possible. The area around the church in Ballinroad would be an option with a short jog to the registration/start line. We need everyones co-operation with this matter please if this race is to go without a hitch. ENTRY TO THE SUMMER SERIES Please note that entry to the summer series is separate to that of the individual races. It’s an extra €5 to join the series and you may join the series at any of the races up to and including the Dromana race which is the deadline for doing so. When you enter the series, you must do 6 of the 11 races

and you will automatically qualify for a €30 Ger Wyley Sports/SKINS voucher. "where would you get it" VALUE SUMMER SERIES RACE PACKAGE This new unique Race Package allows participant's to enter West Waterford A.C.'s own races in the Ger Wyley Sports/Skins Summer Series. So for €35 you are entered for The Ballinroad 5k on April 8th, Ardmore 5 Mile on 20th May, Clashmore 5 Mile on 10th June, Dromana 5 Mile on 17th June, Ras Na Rinne 6 Mile on 1st July, Ballymacarbry 5 Mile on 22nd July, and Marine Climb on 5th August. If you will be pre entered for all the listed races and your race number will be available for pick up at each race headquarters. Here is the link for the series package https://endurancecui.active.co m PRIZE FOR THE 11 FROM 11 CHALLENGE Can you complete the full Ger Wyley Sports/SKINS summer series of 11 races? If yes is your answer you will be one of the lucky athletes who will receives a gift from our sponsors Ger Wyley Sports/SKINS all you have to do is run the 11 from 11.

22nd Annual Ger Wyley Sports / Skins Summer Series Race 2 ON Friday, April 15th we have race number two in this year’s Ger Wyley / Skins Summer series, the Butlerstown 4 mile road race starting at 7.00 p.m. previously this race was held over the 10k distance but the race distance is now changed to 4 miles which is achievable

by all. Entries will be taken at the Butlerstown GAA centre. The centre will also be used for parking and of course changing and shower facilities will also be at the Centre. All proceeds from the race will be donated to Butlerstown GAA club. The Butlerstown race is always

well supported with another big turnout expected this year and with the changed 4 mile distance so we hope to see many new faces taking up this attainable challenge in aid of this community cause. The new bypass road circuit will be used again this year but instead of the usual 3.5

laps we will now be running 2 laps. Presentation of prizes and refreshments will be available at the Holy Cross Bar. Prize categories are: 1st 3 Male 1st over 0/40, 45, 50, 55, 60 and 1st Junior. 1st 3 Female 1st over 35, 40, 45, 50, 60 and 1st Junior.

Dungarvan native Donnacha Flynn pictured with Robert Heffernan, World 50 Km Walk Champion and was recently awarded an Olympic bronze medal from the London Olympics. Donnacha was a selector on the victorious Blackrock U21 County Champions who celebrated their victory at Blackrock Hurling Club recently where Robert presented the medals. [George Hatchell]

West Waterford Athletic Club Athlete of the Year 2015 AT the end of a great year of club activities in 2015 the Athlete of the Year competition saw a clear winner, indeed the margin was 10 points, the largest margin in over 6 years of the competition. The winner this year and for the second year in succession was Yevgeniy Chizhikov who finished on 62 points, this was 10 points clear of Ray Hahesy who accumulated 52 points in the year. Incidentally, Ray also finished second in the previous year's competition. Club chairman Tom Leahy was 3rd overall in 2015 with 49 points. Back to our winner Yev who won the competition with 54 points in 2014 and last year he upped the ante finishing on 62 points. Ray had 53 points in 2014 and last finished second again but this time he had just 1 point less after a year of running 52 points. In finishing 3rd in 2015 Tom finished on 3 points more from the previous year when he had 46 against 49 for 2015. The four seasonal winners then were Spring Yev Chizhikov. Summer went to Diana Chizhikova, with Tom Leahy taking the Winter season and the Autumn season was won by Ray Hahesy, the popular Yev was a deserving winner again in this year long club competition and it takes a huge commitment and consistent club running to win this event. Yevgeniy Chizhikov 62 Ray Hahesy 52 Tom Leahy 49 Diana Chizhikova 46 David McNally 46 Onra Power 45

Mush Keane presents the overall and Spring winner of the Athlete of the Year for 2015 to winner Yevgeniy Chizhikov. Sandra Prendergast 45 Catriona Kiely 43 Liam Kavanagh 42 Ted O'Leary 42 WEST WATERFORD AC ATHLETE OF THE YEAR 2015 The club’s athlete of the year competition for this year which was started on January 1st is open to all fully paid up members of the club only. This year again as the last couple of years we will have quarterly winners, with the first winner being announced after the months of January, February and March- Spring quarter 2 will be April, May and June - Summer Quarter 3 July, August and September Autumn and quarter 4 October, November and December Winter. A prize will be awarded to the athlete who accumulates the most points in the partic-

Sympathy WEST Waterford Athletic Club extend sincere sympathy to the family and friends of Nellie Brazil, Lyranearla, Clomel, Co. Tipperary and David O'Riordan, Ballyneety, Dungarvan and Tommy Lannon, William St., Portlaw who passed to their eternal rewards recently. May they rest in peace.

ular quarter; an athlete can only win one quarter in a given year. The overall winner of athlete of the year will be announced at the end of December this will be the athlete who has accumulated the most points over the entire year of competition. The points system used is one point will be awarded to an athlete who competes for the club in a club organised race and 2 points will be awarded to an athlete who competes for the club in a championship event. Races outside of West Waterford AC club organised races will not count, only club organised races, but of course championships races will count for 2 points no matter where there they take place. Best of luck to all.

Running Quote FOR me, running is a lifestyle and an art. I'm more interested in the magic of it than the mechanics.

WEST WATERFORD AC

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Joe Gough takes Gold at European Masters in Italy JOE Gough has once again brought a gold medal back home when in the Masters over 60 800 metres indoor European championships he clinched Gold last Thursday evening in Ancona, Italy. Having got through the semifinals easily on the previous Tuesday when Joe finished 2nd in heat 1 of 2, Joe clocked 2.22.08 in that particular race and obviously wasn't showing his full hand when just doing enough to make it through to the final, but in the final on Thursday he beat a formidable field which included Europe's top masters over 60. Joe just 2 weeks earlier had finished 2nd in a very tight finish of an invitational race in Portland Oregan, USA as part of the World indoor championships which many regard was the best race finish of that championship. But, of course, the former Mitchell St. man had really one event upmost in his mind and that was that European 800 metre title. Watching the final on live stream to be honest it really was easy for Joe as he broke away from the field with 150 to go and no one could equal

his sudden pace uptake as he crossed the line in an excellent 2.16.76 to clinch gold well clear of Pierre Faucher, France 2nd 2.18.37 with Dutch athlete Marcel Schloten taking bronze 2.18.58. Joe was delighted with his race tactics after as he added another major medal to his growing gold medal haul over the distance. Last summer in Lyon, France Joe won World Championship gold, also in the same over-60 category, and two years ago set a world indoor record of 2:14.06. Joe stayed in Italy for the final of the 1,500 metres which was held on Saturday and again was in the thick of the action which came down to a very fast finishing race, Joe was unlucky here to be just outside the medals when finishing 4th in 4.44.7 from a very large field of 20 starters but he can take consolation that his pacing during the race helped fellow Irish athlete Brian Lynch who is the current world record holder over the distance take gold for Ireland in 4.42.18. Pierre Faucher, France took silver again as he had in the 800m,

Pictured is Joe Gough with his gold masters over 60 European 800m medal which he won in Ancona Italy at the European masters track and field championships last week. the French man clocked a time of 4.42.77 with bronze going to Olexander Iychenco, Ukraine in 4.44.5 and next Joe in 4th place in 4.44.23. So all in all a most successful championships draws to an end for Joe as he took yet another famous victory to add to his ever increasing number of European and World titles now decorating the mantle in Owning. All at your club West Waterford AC congratulate you once again Mr. Gough.

Margaret Hearne completes 4th Half Marathon in 2016 CLUB member Margaret Hearne was running her 4th half marathon Sunday in her quest to run 12 halves in the calendar year. Margaret was in action for her April race in Stuttgart Germany last Sunday on a hilly course which was ran mainly through a wooded area, the conditions were very warm for the race, Margaret completed the half in under the 2 hour mark clocking a time of 1.55 and then had to make the 7 hour drive back to her home in Amsterdam, dedicated to the cause or what. Well done Margaret.

West Waterford athletes complete Listowel Marathon THE Listowel Marathon Club of Ireland organised marathon was held last Saturday in the Kerry town and unlike here it was a dry morning for the event, which was held on a reasonably flat course around 3 loops of the town. West Waterford AC had three athletes in action Ted O'Leary ran another solid 3.23 with Mick Concannon ran a time of 4.02 and Terri Gough 5.34. Incidentally, in the Listowel race Dave Brady, Raheny, Shamrocks AC athlete unbelievably completed his 550th marathon.

Condon 1916-2016 . . .100 Years - 100 Marathon Runners Maria wins Vartry 50km

NOTICE ON ACCOMMODATION FOR DUBLIN MARATHON 2016 The club has block booked rooms 45 in total for October Bank Holiday marathon weekend Saturday, 28th and Sunday, 29th. Such has been the response to our clubs 100 marathon runners to celebrate the Rising of 1916 that it looks likely we will need much more rooms than is booked, with this in mind and to try to be fair to all club members it has been decided that these rooms will be issued immediately as people travelling will know at this early stage if they have accommodation in this particular hotel or not and to give them a chance to get an alternative hotel if not successful. We have since last October negotiated a deal with the clubs usual hotel where we have stayed for some years now the Best Western Plus Academy Plaza Hotel off the top of O'Connell St. on Findlater Place. The prices agreed are as follows €350 per double/ Twin room for 2 nights bed and breakfast and 1 evening meal and €320 per single room for 2

nights bed and breakfast and 1 evening meal. (Please note the hotel won't allow us sell triple or family rooms). We will have the official club 100 evening meal on marathon night, Sunday 29th. 1. Club members paid up for 2016 only can book between 1 and 2 rooms. 2. A deposit of €150 per room is required but no cash transaction, cheque or postal order made payable to West Waterford athletic club only. 3. Deposit to be dropped to James Veale in Ger Wyley Sports (no one else will accept deposits) in a sealed envelope with your name on front and deposit inside. 4. Hotel rooms will be allocated on a first come with deposit paid first served and when the 45 rooms are filled, there filled. 5. This notice will appear in local papers today, Wednesday, and go on club website the same day. 6. Final payment for room will be due in early October.

David McCarthy records winning return THE very welcome news came Sunday evening that David McCarthy had won the 47th Annual AirGrid sponsored Dunboyne 4 mile road race, one of the top 4 mile road races in the country which always draws the cream of road runners and this year was no different. It was battle royal with all the top contenders in the shake up with a mile to go, McCarthy made his move 800 out with the finish line in sight and he pulled away from a top class field to recorded famous victory in a very impressive 18.39 with Brendan Hargreaves DSD AC 2nd 18.45 and Mick Clohesy Raheny Shamrocks AC 3rd in 18.48. When looking through the top 10 finishers which included some regulars and winners of our own John Treacy 10 miler it makes for even a more impressive return for David who caught a flight a few hours after the race for 5 weeks warm weather training in Font Romeu, France. It's a breath of fresh air to see David

back to this kind of form and running that time for 4 miles as we wish him well for the next 5 weeks at altitude and figures crossed that his injury woes are well and truly behind him. Massive performance forward and upwards. 1. David McCarthy, West Waterford A.C. 18:39 2. Brandon Hargreaves, Dundrum South Dublin A.C. 18:45 3. Mick Clohesy, Raheny Shamrock A.C. 18:48 4. Kevin Maunsell, Clonmel A.C. 18:51 5. Joe Sweeney, Dundrum South Dublin A.C. 19:00 6. William Maunsell, Clonmel A.C. 19:08 7. Conor Dooney, Raheny Shamrock A.C. 19:12 8. Paddy Hamilton, Slieve Gullion Runners 19:16 9. Thomas Hayes, KCH 19:37 10. Barry Harron, Finn Valley A.C. 19:46

Ultra Marathon On Saturday, 26th March, Maria Condon was the First Lady home in the Vartry 50 km Ultra Marathon in Vartry, Co. Wicklow. It was Maria's first Ultra Marathon, having completed her first Marathon in Dublin last October. Maria finished in 3rd place overall for the ultra event itself, with only two men ahead of her. The conditions were extremely challenging with continuous wind and rain. The Vartry 50k Ultra comprised of a 10 Mile hilly Loop around the beautiful Vartry Lakes in Roundwood, Co. Wicklow. The race started and finished in the Highest Town in Ireland, taking competitors along scenic and picturesque parts of the Vartry Drive and Lakes, with breathtaking mountain views. Well done Maria.

Pictured with her winning trophy is Maria Condon who was 1st lady home in the recent Vartry 50km Ultra Marathon.

Kilmacow Open Sports, Boys U-10 4 x 200m Relay, top left to right: Cian Moore, Ciaran Cotter. Bottom Left to right: Leon Maderson and Brian Scanlan.

Finnisk Valley AC THE 2016 Track and Field season got off to a great start with a nice group of our athletes traveling to Kilmacow, Co. Kilkenny to compete in St. Senan’s Open Sports last Easter Monday. The competitors were at a very high standard with athletes competing from both Munster and Leinster counties. In the girls/boys U-8 80m races, we had Saorlaith Mernin, Lucy Raicevic, Eddie Raicevic and Cayden Scanlan, all ran very well. Saorlaith won her heat and got pipped at the post to finish 4th in the her final, Eddie also won his heat and had a great sprint to take a silver medal in his final. In the Girls U-9 80m sprint, Suin Mernin also was placed well up in her heats, and had a great run to finish 3rd place in the 80m final. In the Girls/Boys U-10, we had Lucy Ronayne, Ciaran Cotter, Cian Moore, Brian Scanlan and Leon Maderson competing. Lucy had a great run in the 80m and unlucky to qualify for the finals. The boys Cian, Ciaran, Brian and Lean were also unlucky to make it to the finals of the 80m sprint but they made it up in the boys U-10 4 x 200m relay. The boys ran out of their socks to finish 2nd place overall, well done. In the girls/boys U-11, we had Eimear Griffin and Corey Scanlan. Eimear had a great race in the 300m. She was placed 2nd with 100m to go, and she was unlucky finished just outside the medals. In the Shot Putt competions we had Corey Scanlan, Caoimhe Reynolds, Maeve Griffin and Rory Kiely. Corey stepped up an age to compete his first shot putt in the boys U12, he had a great throw to finish 5th place overall. Caoimhe did very well in the girls U-13 shot putt with a lovely throw to take home a silver medal. Maeve and Rory also threw very well. Both stepped up an age to com-

pete, Maeve competed in the Girls U-15 shot putt and Rory competed in the Boys U-16 shot putt. Both finished just outside the medals. Congratulations to all the athletes who travelled to Kilmacow and competed at these high standards. Also thanks to all the parents who travelled to support. Next completion is Ferrybank Open Sports Waterford RSC track on Sunday, 10th April. Leevale Open Sports CIT on Sunday, 17th April and Waterford County championships in Waterford RSC on 8th and 15th May. Anybody interesting

in competing in these please contact the club. Full programme on events can be obtained at our training sessions. Any children in our community who are interested in running, jumping or throwing and would like to get involved in athletics, call down to Ballinameela community pitch/hall. Training times are Wednesday and Friday evenings from 7.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m. Minimum age limit is 5 years old (Child needs to be School going). Saturday training is for jumps and throws only, age 9 up from 10.30 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. This is to prepare kids for completion.

Kilmacow Open Sports - Eddie Raicevic Finisk Valley AC in 80m sprint.

Kilmacow Open Sports - Corey Scanlan Finisk Valley AC in Boys U-12 Shot Putt.

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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 WE wouldn't be Irish if we didn't talk about the weather and unfortunately this week gave us plenty to talk about. Friday and Saturday were a washout but some great golf was still played. Regular visitor Fiona Butler from Newlands had the round of her life last Monday shooting a brilliant 49 points to win by a mile and John Clancy had a brilliant 67 to take the Ballinacourty Cup in brutal conditions. But my golfer of the week award goes to our junior and prejunior golfers who were undeterred by the weather on Sunday and played in our annual Easter adult-junior fun tournament. Several adults wouldn't venture out but our little golfers are made of tougher stuff and enjoyed a great day over the front nine. A special thanks to all the Mammies and Daddies for supporting the event. It's Masters week at last and this year promises to be exciting. Resident pro David is tipping Adam Scott and Bubba to be at the business end but if you are looking for a safe bet, try the "hole in one". David is holding a €5 Sweep with the draw made on Saturday. WATERFORD LADIES GAA GOLF CLASSIC

Waterford Ladies GAA Golf Classic a fundraiser for the Waterford Intermediate Ladies Football Training fund takes place at Dungarvan Golf Club on Fri. 15th and Sat. 16th April. Teams of 4 are €120 and the format is 2 scores to count of each hole. You can book your time online www.dungarvangolfclub.com or contact Trish Fitzgerald 086-1664215. LADIES GET INTO GOLF Our Ladies Into Golf programme has attracted a fantastic response and we look forward to welcoming the participants to our taster evening on Tuesday, 12th April. Admission is free on the night, so if you are contemplating trying your hand at golf, this is the perfect opportunity. The 8 week programme will include tuition from PGA Professional David Hayes as well as on course and social activities with club members. Equipment will be provided with follow on membership offers so spread the word to friends, family and work colleagues. Please contact our Vice Captain, Christine O’Keeffe if you are interested in taking your first steps into this great game. Christine can be contacted at 0876743877.

SENIORS PAIRS The Seniors Pairs Classic visitors who played the three courses Gold Coast, Dungarvan and West Waterford last week on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday got the best of the weather and an enjoyable event was had by all. The next three Club Classic, the International Classic, takes place from Mon. 30th May to Thurs. 2nd June. Entry forms available in all three Clubs. RESULTS: Tuesday at Gold Coast: 2 Ball Rumble: Best Gents: Patrick O’Sullivan (16), Bart Moylan (18) Adare Manor 53 pts Best Mixed: Tom Hickey (16), Margaret Hickey (16) Adare Manor 49 pts. Best Ladies: Margaret Shanahan (30), Jody Doyle (21) Millicent 35 pts. Wednesday at Dungarvan, Fourball: Best Gents: Des Cleary (12), Tommy Butler (15) West Waterford 50 pts Best Mixed: Chriostoir McBradaigh (22), Paula McBradaigh (25) Forest Little 39 pts. Best Ladies: Mary Robinson (19). Una Robinson (20) Wexford 35 pts. Thursday at West Waterford, 2 person Scramble: Best Gents: Jim Kiersey (19), Liam Carroll (19) Dungarvan 49 pts. Best Mixed: Martin O’Rourke (21), Ann O’Rourke (27) Craddockstown 44 pts. Overall: Best Gents: Des Cleary (12), Tommy Butler (15) West Waterford 153. Best Mixed: Tom Hickey (16), Margaret Hickey (16) Adare Manor 147 pts.

You can contact us by phoning 058-44055 Our email address is: goldcoastgolf@cablesurf.com Our website is: www.goldcoastgolfclub.com RESULTS Tuesday 29th March: Open Seniors. 1st: Declan Kiely (10) 39 pts. Sunday 3rd April: 18 Holes Stableford. 1st: Derek Power (3) 37 pts. Senior Pairs Results: Tuesday at Gold Coast: 2 Ball Rumble: Best Gents: Patrick O’Sullivan (16), Bart Moylan (18) Adare Manor 53 pts Best Mixed: Tom Hickey (16), Margaret Hickey (16) Adare Manor 49 pts. Best Ladies: Margaret Shanahan (30), Jody Doyle (21) Millicent 35 pts. Wednesday at Dungarvan, Fourball: Best Gents: Des Cleary (12), Tommy Butler (15) West Waterford 50 pts Best Mixed: Chriostoir McBradaigh (22), Paula McBradaigh (25) Forest Little 39 pts. Best Ladies: Mary Robinson (19). Una Robinson (20) Wexford 35 pts. Thursday at West Waterford, 2 person Scramble: Best Gents: Jim Kiersey (19), Liam Carroll (19) Dungarvan 49 pts. Best Mixed: Martin O’Rourke (21), Ann O’Rourke (27) Craddockstown 44 pts. Overall:

Best Gents: Des Cleary (12), Tommy Butler (15) West Waterford 153. Best Mixed: Tom Hickey (16), Margaret Hickey (16) Adare Manor 147 pts. Best Ladies: Margaret Shanahan (30), Jody Doyle (21) Millicent 111 pts.

FIXTURES Tuesday 5th April Open Seniors, 50+, Ladies & Gents. Friday 8th April: Open 18 Holes Stableford. Saturday 9th April: 18 Holes Stableford. Sunday 10th April: Monthly Medal, Blue and Stroke. Tuesday 12th April: Open Seniors, 50+, Ladies & Gents. DEISE LEAGUE The league resumes next weekend when the four teams involved head to Faithlegg. Waterford Castle look to be qualified for the final with 4 pts and the second spot is still up for grabs depending on which way the results go. Saturday, 9th April at 1.30 p.m. at Faithlegg: Tramore v Gold Coast and Faithlegg v Waterford Castle.

Saturday, 16th April at 1.30 p.m. in Waterford Castle: Final and Plate. PAELLA, BURGERS, SAUSAGES ETC That’s what will be available to all players taking part in our Captain’s Drive In on Sunday 17th April. Our Gent’s Captain, Rafael, who originally comes from Spain, the home of Paella, is arranging to have an expert come along on the day and cook the Paella here in the car park. The Drive-In will be at 10.00 a.m. and there will be a rumble and a singles competition immediately afterwards, shotgun start. PREMIER BUTCHERS AT DAWN MEATS WINTER LEAGUE Both semi-finals went ahead on Sunday last despite the disruptions caused by the bad weather which necessitated a switch from Saturday to Sunday. In the first semi-final Dunhill were against Ballinacourty and this resulted in a victory for Dunhill. In the second semifinal Copper Coast took on Dungarvan and this resulted

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Best Ladies: Margaret Shanahan (30), Jody Doyle (21) Millicent 111 pts. GENTS RESULTS Mon. 28th Open Singles. 1 Leo Crawford (18) 40 pts, 2 Kevin Croke (13) Williamstown 39 pts, Gross Alan Thomas (+1) 35 gross, 3 Maurice Terry (11) 39 pts. Sun. 3rd Ballinacourty Cup Singles Stroke: 1st John Clancy (17) 67, 2 Ml Leacy (6) 68, Gross Kevin Stack (1) 70. LADIES RESULTS Mon. 28th Open Singles 1st Finola Butler (22) 49 pts, 2 Mary Power (16) 39. Tues. 29th Singles 1st Maeve Carthy (34) 38 pts, 2nd Colette Power (31) 37 pts, 3rd Mary Ann Coffey (24) 35 pts, 4th Marie Veale (34) 35 pts. FIXTURES Mon 4 Open Gents/Ladies Seniors (50+) Singles S/F Tue 5 Start of Season Ladies Scramble p.m. Thu 7 SPAR Thursday Open Gents Singles S/F Qualifier - Visitors €15 Sat 9 Gents/Singles S/F+ Ladies Alliance Capt Day (MRyan) & Ladies S/F Sun 10 Gents Singles Stroke + Ladies Australian Spoons Qualifier 3- 4 p.m Mon 11 Open Gents/Ladies Seniors (50+) Singles S/F LADIES HOME ALLIANCE CAPTAIN’S DAY 9th APRIL Maria Ryan is holding her Captain’s Day on Saturday 9th April. (1pm – 3pm). The timesheet is available for booking. Please put your name on the timesheet by Tuesday 5th April. The draw will be made on Wednesday 6th April, and posted to the website timesheet on

Thursday. PROGRESSIVE 45 RESULTS 31st March WINNERS: Jim Kiersey & Colm Bannon. Runners-Up Michael Harney and Tomas Carroll. Last 5 Pat Power and Tom Daly. Lucky table: Pat Phelan and Eddie Kiely. Progressive 45 every Thursday. All welcome. SOCIAL BRIDGE The Friday morning Bridge is finishing up. It’s been a most enjoyable and sociable few months. Thanks to Brenda for her great organising and thank you to everyone who came out to participate. The Club appreciated your support. YOUNGONES NEXT COMPETITON 12.20 pm front 9 on Wed. 6th April. 30th March winner Kate McNamara (30) 19 pts, 2nd Marie Fives (20) 17 pts. LADIES COAST ALLIANCE The Captain’s Prize took place on Thurs. 31st March in Dunmore East Golf Club in Beautiful Sunshine. While most of us who travelled enjoyed the views and food in the new Clubhouse June Hayes brought home the prize for nearest the pin. Well done to Dunmore for a great day. SIXTY.COM Next competition 2 pm 6th April. Results 30th March Winner Donal Verling (17) 17pts, Best Gent Des Power (23) 16pts. Get your name in for weekend away by Wednesday 6th April. Limited availability. 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 and is valid for the 2016 season. An application form can be downloaded from the club website www.dungarvangolfclub.com or alternatively contact the office on 058-43310 if you require further information or assistance. PRO SHOP NEWS With the golf season getting underway, our resident PGA professional David has a shop full of the latest equipment and fashion to help you to enjoy your game. All the major manufacturers have new releases and David is always on hand to offer professional advice as well as free custom fitting. Demos are available also. Popular items include lithium batteries, GPS systems and electric trollies. The new Green Lamb range for our ladies is now on the shelves and won't disappoint. You can find all the new releases as well as special offers on David's website at www.davidhayesgolf.com.

JUNIOR NEWS Despite the poor weather our juniors and prejuniors turned up in droves for our annual Easter Adult- Junior tournament. "Aw Dad" was a familiar call but everyone enjoyed the fun tournament and it was great to see our future golfers in action beside their parents. Ciara took the honours with a little help from Dad Conor but our praise goes to all the players for braving the conditions and having a lot of fun. Due to the success of our junior golfers, we have taken unprecedented steps by entering three teams into the Munster Regional Skills Challenge to be held at Ballykisteen golf club. Details will be released shortly. Tuition for our beginners and prejuniors continues next Saturday at 3 pm under the guidance of club professional David Hayes. Non members are welcome and all equipment is provided. Our Fred Daly team are in action on Sunday, 17th April at Carrick GC. We face the winners from Faithlegge and West Waterford in a difficult match but our young squad have practiced hard over the Winter months and will no doubt give a good account of themselves. Any enquiries relating to junior activities can be directed to David Hayes. David can be contacted at 058-44707 or email at golfpro@eircom.net. CLUB CONTACT DETAILS Timesheets online at www.dungarvangolfclub.com Office 058 43310/ 41605, Pro Shop 058 44707, Bar/Restaurant Tom Daly Catering 087 2680597.

in a victory for Dungarvan. The final will take place at a date to be arranged shortly. JB CARR Gold Coast are due to play West Waterford in the 1st round of the JB Carr which is a tournament for over 60’s. This match is going ahead on Wednesday 6th April at 2.30 p.m. Anyone interested in playing for the Gold Coast should give their name to team manager, Bob O’Brien. DUBAI IRISH OPEN PRO-AM COMPETITION Gold Coast have entered a team for this competition and two players (1 lady and 1 Gent) will play in the qualifying round in Dooks Golf Club on Monday, 28th April at 12.50 p.m. The winners of the Ladies competition on Easter Monday will join the winner of the Gents competition on Sunday, 10th April as the Gold Coast representatives. DRAW FOR GOLD COAST CUP MATCH-PLAY Anyone interested in playing in the Gold Coast Cup Singles match-play should enter his name on the sheet provided in the kiosk. Entry fee of €5 must be paid when entering. The draw will take place at 4 p.m. on Sunday, 10th April. NEW SCRATCH MATCHPLAY COMPETITION The draw, which will be carried out on a seeded basis using current handicaps on date of draw, will take place on Sunday, 10th April. Entry is €5

CLUB MIXED FOURSOMES DRAW This match-play competition draw will take place on Sunday 24th April. Entry fee is €5. Please enter on sheet in kiosk. COMING UP IN APRIL Sunday, 10th April: Monthly Medal. Saturday, 16th April: Saturday Half Sub Qualifier. Sunday, 17th April: Captain’s Drive In, Rumble and Singles. Sunday, 24th April: ViceCaptain’s Prize presented by Brian O’Connor and Mixed Foursomes Draw. LADIES NOTES RESULTS

home ground and 2 matches playing in West Waterford GC. Tee off for first match is 1.30 pm, and some local support would be appreciated, we wish all competitors and manager Martina the very best for the first leg of this league!! SOUTH EAST COASTAL ALLIANCE The final round and Captains Day of the Alliance was held in Dunmore East GC on Thursday, 31st March in glorious sunshine. The course was in immaculate condition and with a stunning new clubhouse, a great day was had by all. As always, we did not come away empty handed as two of our ladies were in the prizes, Willie Reynolds won nearest the pin on the 16th and Julie Lawlor won Cat C, well done girls!! OUTING TO TIPPERARY GOLF CLUB All preparations are now in hand for our return trip to Tipperary GC on Sunday 10th April. A list is posted in kiosk with all information pertaining to the outing, tee times will be from 12 – 1.00 pm, a coach has been arranged for those wishing to avail of it with return fare at €20 per person, leaving Gold Coast at 9.45 am and returning no later than 9.00 pm. Last chance to get your name on list for what promises to be a great day out!! CAPTAINS DRIVE-IN The date for the Captain’s Drive In has now been

announced and will take place on Sunday, 17th April after which a 3 person team event will take place. Tee time will be 10.00 am with entries in before 9.30 am, we are hoping for a large turnout for this event as we support our Captains to launch us into another year of golf!! NEW MEMBERSHIP Golf is a very sociable game and a great way of meeting new people, it is the only game that can be played worldwide without a partner as having your name on a time sheet does that for you!! While many of us will never reach international status, we can still represent our club on a national level or just enjoy club competitions and social golf, with this game there is something for everyone!! Ladies, if you would like to play a game of golf on our stunning 18 hole championship course, we are in the process of combining a very attractive and generous package for new members to include free golf lessons. Club members are available on Friday, 15th April at 6 pm to take out any ladies who would like to try out the game, (clubs will be provided) with refreshments after in the Bunker Bar. We would encourage all our members to invite their friends along on this night. Names are now being taken, for details contact Bob or Mark in the kiosk. (05844055).

McGraths Pharmacy 18 Hole Competition 1st: Elaine Goss – 41 pts; 2nd: Ger Hallinan – 39 pts; 3rd: Mary Clancy – 34 pts.

FIXTURES 10 Hole Ongoing Competition Kirwan Chemist 13 Hole 2 card Competition. Sat., 9th April: 18 Hole comp sponsored by Johnny Lynch Fruit and Veg DUBAI IRISH OPEN PRO-AM The qualifying round of this competition will be held in Dooks GC on Monday, 28th April, and the ladies representative will be Elaine Goss who will be joined by the men’s club winner. CHALLENGE CUP MATCHPLAY Our Challenge Cup team take to the fairways on Sunday, 24th April with 3 matches taking place on

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Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

West Waterford Golf & Country Club Telephone: 058-43216. Fax: 058-44343. E-mail: info@westwaterfordgolf.com Website: www.westwaterfordgolf.com RESULTS Weekly 18 Hole Stableford Cat 1. Morrie Ferncombe (8) 40pts. Cat 2. John O’Connell (11) 38 pts Cat 3. Liam Leahy (15) 39 pts. Cat 4. Pat Power (22) 35 pts b9. FIXTURES Monday April 4th – Sunday April 10th – Rd 4 Winter Lg 18 Hole Stableford Every Tuesday from April 5th. All Day Open 9 hole – Members, Guests and Visitors Welcome. Every Wednesday from April 6th – Al Eile Open Qualifier 18 Hole Stableford – Exceptional value at €15. Friday, 8th April – South Munster Seniors at West Waterford GC. Friday, 8th April – Scramble at 6.00 pm SUNSHINE CLASSIC FINAL RESCHEDULED FOR SATURDAY, 9th APRIL Unfortunately due to the adverse weather the Final of the 2016 Sunshine Classic had to be postponed last weekend and will now take place next Saturday, 9nd April. Tee times will remain the same as what had been arranged with the teams for last weekend. Teams will be divided into two pairs with each pair playing in a fourball format with a pair from an opposing team. Visiting teams are reminded that individual GUI numbers will be requested on the day. Presentation of prizes will take place in the clubhouse at 8 pm on Saturday night. SCRAMBLE IN AID OF WATERFORD HOSPICE The Costin Family invite all members and friends to join them in a scramble/gathering of Margaret's family, friends and golf buddies on Sunday afternoon 17th April. Tee times from 1.30 pm to 4pm

and teams (3 person) can be booked on sheet on the notice board or by contacting Gillian in the office (058) 43216. All proceeds are going to the Waterford Hospice and all prizes are being kindly sponsored. BELVEDERE TROPHY West Waterford will travel to Lismore for their first round match in defence of our county title. The management team will be keeping a keen eye on the Winter League matchplay and the upcoming Tuesday high handicap competitions as they seek to form a panel for this year’s competition. Practice matches will be arranged with JB Carr, Purcell and Bruen panels. JB CARR With the first match fast approaching, manager Sean Wade still has a few vacancies on the panel so take note anyone over 60 on Jan 1st this year. We make the short trip to the Gold Coast in the opening encounter and have a major task on hand if we are to overcome the home team challenge. Best of luck to Sean and his team. 2016 GOLFING YEAR With the extended Comeragh Oil Winter League and the Sunshine Classic drawing to a close our 2016 season is getting into top gear. Our South East League team await the group B winners for the final prior to preparations for the Bruen and Purcell competitions. Round 4 of our Winter League is underway and by next Sunday evening we should know the top 16 to contest the matchplay. As ever our weekly club competitions continue to be well supported. Our young guns have been busy during the Easter break as they prepare for the Junior Foursomes and Fred Daly competitions. Starting

Lismore Golf Club Phone 058-54026. Email: lismoregolfclub@eircom.net Website: www.lismoregolf.org THE end the Tallow Area Credit Union Spring League has come upon us. The winners of the League and the Plate have been decided over a grueling week. All of those involved in the finals played some great stuff and should be happy with the efforts that they put in. The team that have made the headlines and have been crowned champions is Team J. They were lead by Peter Whelan who spearheaded

this mighty win. Commiserations must go to the runners-up, Team N, who were lead by Patsy O'Donoghue. Congratulations also go to Team O, lead by Liam Feeney, who played extremely well to take the Plate. All of the players acquitted themselves well in extremely tough and wet conditions. This was a fitting way to finish the competition which saw most people put in

this week our hugely popular Tuesday competition run all day, while the Al Eile Wednesday qualifier continues to attract visitors and members alike. So, we have something for everyone including the upcoming Friday evening scrambles. It’s time to shake off the winter blues and get back swinging at the club where you are guaranteed a big West Waterford Welcome. COMERAGH OIL WINTER LEAGUE TABLE This is the order of the league table at present: Coolcormack 381, Killeagh 373, Abbeyside 369, Old Boro 369, Clashmore 367, Carrigaline 366, Ballyduff 365, Fr Twomeys 364, Old Parish 356, Tournore 354, Silversprings 354, Coolagh 353, Canty 349, Mount Odell 344, Youghal 343, Grange 342, Kinsalebeg 341, An Ghaeltacht 340, Glenbeg 339, Helvick 337. SUPER SUNSHINE RAFFLE The West Waterford Golf Club Sunshine Holiday Raffle Draw took place in the Clubhouse last Saturday and the Club wishes to thank everyone who supported it. The lucky winners are as follows: 1st Prize: Holiday for 2 in Portugal, 5 Nights Hotel B&B plus €200 Flight Voucher David Morrissey, Crotty’s Inn, Leamybrien. 2nd Prize: One night’s B&B plus Dinner for 2 at any of the Flynn Group Hotels - Ken Johnson, Templeogue, Dublin 6W. 3rd prize: Dinner for 2 at The Cliff House Hotel in the Michelin Star Restaurant, Ardmore - Jay Ware, Aglish. 4th Prize: Meal for 2 at The Tannery Restaurant, Dungarvan - Bernadette Moore, Orlagh Park, Dublin 16. 5th Prize: Sunday Lunch for 2 at West Waterford Golf Club Restaurant - Richard Ronayne, Woodview, Dungarvan. AUTUMN SENIORS OPEN ALLIANCE This highly popular competition gets underway at Gold Coast on Monday, 11th April. West Waterford will host the next outing on Monday, 9th May. All seniors please take note and remember to book buggies now as

demand is always high for this event. TWENTY YEARS A GROWING – 2009 2009 would prove to be a defining and historic year for West Waterford Golf Club. Lanson Kelly takes over the Captaincy, Bertie Hallahan entered his second year as President while Suzanne Dalton would lead the ladies as Lady Captain. After the phenomenal success of our juniors in recent years this was the year in which the juniors became men. The fairytale story began on Saturday 18th April at Youghal GC when we beat the home team in the first round of the senior cup. We then went on to beat Carrickon-Suir and Cahir Park to book a place in the semi final at Thurles. We took on the holders Castletroy in the semi final winning by 3.1/2 to 1.1/2, setting up a Munster final clash with the highly fancied Douglas GC. Douglas had no answer to the fire power of this young and spirited West Waterford outfit who ran out easy winners on a 4-1 scoreline to claim the Munster title. A truly unforgettable experience and history in the making. Our next assignment was the All Ireland semi finals in Tullamore where John Carroll’s men accounted for Ulster champions Castlerock to set up the unthinkable, a place in the All Ireland Final. Connacht champions Galway provided the opposition and in a nail biting encounter came out winners on a 3.1/2 to 1.1/2 scoreline. Considering that our star player Seamus Power was unavailable due to exam commitments in the U.S. this was an outstanding performance. Our team for the final comprised of Mark Shanahan, Gary Hurley, Philip Walsh, Philip Spratt and Nick O’Riordan. Special mention must go to team manager John Carroll. After all the excitement of the senior cup other achievements might appear insignificant but this was not the case. West Waterford was awarded the title Club of the Year 2009 by the Munster Branch of the GUI. Tom Butler and James Cooney won the Captain’s and President’s prizes respectively. The singles

matchplay for the Eddie Hackett Trophy saw some sibling rivalry in the final with the Murphy brothers going head to head. They could not be separated after 18 holes and on the 19th Pat outfoxed brother Jimmy when he birdied the hole for an historic win. Watch this space next week for the highlights of 2010. OUR WEBSITE Just a reminder that the full list of Winter League teams and the results as they stand at present are posted on the club website www.westwaterfordgolf.-com. As qualifying round results become available they will be updated and published on the evening of the concluding day of that round. Please note that when checking the ‘find your team’ link you should enter your last name followed by a space and first name. Your team listing in order of handicap can be accessed by clicking on the magnifier to the left of your name. Billy O’Sullivan continues to do a professional job on the site and is always available to update as required. I would recommend that you visit the site and see for yourself what’s happening at West Waterford. RESTAURANT OPEN FOR SUNDAY LUNCH Sunday Lunch at West Waterford is continuing to be a great success to date and wish to thank you all for your continued support. If you haven’t done so already why

not come along and relax in the warmth of our bar and restaurant. Sunday lunch is available between 12.30 pm and 3 pm. CONFIRMATION AND COMMUNION MENU AVAILABLE Do you have a Confirmation or First Communion in 2016? If you do then our first communion and confirmation menus are now available. Give us a call on 058 43216 or call into the bar or office at West Waterford to get a copy. We look forward to serving you. WEST WATERFORD GOLF CLUB LADIES NOTES WINTER LEAGUE Due to the dreadful weather over the weekend, there is still a match outstanding but the position at present is as follows:Semi-finals: New Hampshire v. Maine; Connecticut v. New York or Rhode Island (match outstanding). Please get all your matches played as quickly as possible as the final is scheduled for Sunday, 10th April. 9 Hole April is sponsored by Captain Jean Conway. 18 Hole ongoing continues and is sponsored by Bridget Spratt. Date for your diary – Sunday, 17th April. The Costin family invite all members and friends to join them in a scramble/gathering of Margaret’s family, friends and golf buddies on Sunday afternoon, 17th April. Tee

times from 1.30 p.m. to 4.00 p.m. and teams (3 person) can be booked on sheet on the notice board or by contacting Gillian in the office (058) 43216. All proceeds are going to the Waterford Hospice and all prizes are being kindly sponsored. We sincerely thank all sponsors who include, Tom Curran Hardware, Dalton Jewellers, An Seanachai Restaurant and Ger Wyley Sports. In conjunction with this scramble, a monster raffle is also being held with some fabulous prizes:- 1st – Cliff House Hotel – 1 night B&B for two people; 2nd – Dan Linehan’s B&B, Killarney, 2 nights B&B for two people; 3rd – Golf for 4 people at Killeen Championship Golf Course (Irish Open Host); 4th - Golf for 4 at the Ross Golf Course, Killarney; 5th, 6th, 7th and 8th – Luxury hampers and much more……. Tickets can be purchased at the Club and again all proceeds to Waterford Hospice. Margaret was one of our very popular members who is greatly missed and the Lady Captain and ladies committee would ask everyone to come out and support the Costin family in this worthy cause by participating in the scramble and purchasing tickets in the club. CONTACT DETAILS Telephone: 058 43216 Fax: 058 44343.

a great effort. The club would again like to thank Tallow Area Credit Union for their support and sponsorship. We are returning back to 18-hole competitions this week and hopefully the weather will hold. Also the Tuesday bacon begins again on Tuesday 5th April. 12-Hole Stableford: Sponsored by Tallow Area Credit Union: Results: 1st Paudie Prendergast (18) 28 pts; 2nd Pat Curley (18) 27 pts; 3rd Paul Kenneally (11) 26 pts L6. LEAGUE FINAL WON BY PETER WHELAN’S TEAM Peter Whelan 25 v Patsy O’Donoghue 24 Noel McNamara 25 v Pat Morrissey 28 Mike Keane 25 v Paddy Lane 23 Edmond Aherne 17 v Jack Aherne 16 Nicholas Walsh 20 v Pat

Beecher 16 Plate Final won by Liam Feeney’s Team Liam Feeney Team 104 Paul Kenneally 90 Colm Burke 81 PJ Coughlan 80 Category Winners Cat 1 - Paul Kenneally Cat 2 - Pat Morrissey Cat 3 – Donal J. O’Leary Cat 4 – Patrick Curley Cat 5 – Dermot O’Leary Monday, 4th-Sunday, 10th April 18-Hole Singles Stableford. Due to continued rain this competition will be lift and clean on fairway only; play as it lies in the rough. Reminder that club membership is now overdue and pay as soon as possible. LISMORE LADIES EAST CORK SPRING LEAGUE The last of the 12 Holes saw a new winner in Alice Henley (welcome back Alice!) with 26 pts, who pipped our

President Katherine on the back 3 who in turn beat the Lady Captain JoJo on the last 1, and Catherine Neville taking 4th place with 25 pts. Neither the President or the Lady Captain are letting their positions get in the way of good golf. Well done Ladies. Things are hotting up in the League and with only one week left Patricia Bolger/JoJo Tobin's Team are just slightly ahead of Daphne Power's Team D. The lead has been swapping between the two teams for the last few weeks, this week is 18 Holes and you can play only once and no doubt it will be a tough challenge for everyone. It's time to start getting your phone books out Ladies and get inviting as we have our first Open of the year on Sunday, 24th of April from 11.30 am and on Wednesday, 27th April kindly sponsored by

Knockanore Farmhouse Cheese - 3 Ball Ladies Team Event. WEEK 5 - EAST CORK SPRING LEAGUE 12 HOLE S/FORD 24th March to 2nd April 1st Alice Henley (32) 26 pts B3; 2nd Katherine Moynihan (19) 26 pts L1; 3rd JoJo Tobin (20) 28 - 2 = 26 pts; 4th Catherine Neville (28) 25 pts B6. Teams placings after 5 rounds, are as follows: Team F: Patricia Bolger McCarthy - 314 pts Team D: Daphne Power 312 pts Team B: Fiona Howard 304 pts Team C: Joan Cahillane 302pts Team A: Amanda Power 298 pts Team G: Patricia Lonergan - 267 pts Team E: Betty Joyce - 169 pts.

FIXTURES 6th & Final Round Spring League from Sunday, 3rd April to Saturday, 9th April 18 Holes S/Ford - play once only. Sunday, 10th & Wednesday, 13th April - 18 Holes Sunday, 17th & Wednesday, 20th April - 18 Holes Sunday, 24th & Wednesday, 27th April - 18 Holes 3 Ball Team Event Open - Time Sheet will be in operation There will be a presentation of prizes on Friday, 15th April at 7 pm which will be followed by an EGM regarding Tunnel/Road. FEES: It's that time of year again, all fees now due please. Prompt payment would be much appreciated.

Diarmuid Horgan, President WWGC, Jean Conway, Lady Captain WWGC, and Dermot Drohan, Captain WWGC, carrying out the draw of the Sunshine Holiday Raffle which was held last weekend in the Clubhouse.

GAA

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Allianz National Hurling League quarter-final

League title retention remains on track but only just WATERFORD ……….. 0-17; WEXFORD …………... 1-13. Report Courtesy of Phil Fanning THE happiest people leaving Wexford Park on Sunday last were probably the Wexford supporters, Why? Because they had seen their side put up a spirited display against raging hot favourites and defending title holders, Waterford, and are sensible enough to know that in losing by a point here they will be in a better place going forward to a Leinster championship meeting with Dublin in Croke Park on May 21st than they would be on the back of a hammering by Limerick in a League semi-final on Sunday week. For make no mistake that is what would have happened had this mediocre Wexford team managed to get past a flat looking Waterford side here. The defending champions went into this game as overwhelming favourites against a side that had made it into the quarter finals on the back of a league win over Kerry followed by a last gasp win over a Laois side that had not won a single game and is set for relegation to Division 2. We have said it often enough before that favouritism does not sit well with Waterford teams in any grade and Waterford’s performance in the opening quarter of this game, when they fell six points behind, was reminiscent of what we saw in the same period of the league game against Offaly in Tullamore last year while the overall performance was along the lines of that we saw against Dublin in Walsh Park recently. The hard fact emerging from last Sunday’s result is that had Wexford a free-taker of the calibre of Maurice Shanahan we could have lost by four or five points and, despite the inadequacy of referee Johnny Ryan, we could have had no complaints. With nothing to lose Wexford, on home soil, were always going to lift their game against us just as they had done against Clare in the league, a game they also lost narrowly. Smarting from criticism on the home front it was they who brought the higher level of intensity to this game from the first whistle, fiercely contesting every ball and hunting down an opponent when in possession. As Waterford struggled to comprehend what was happening in the opening twenty minutes or so, when Wexford held a six point lead, it was frustrating to see proven score getters such as Patrick Curran, Shane Bennett, Colin

Dunford and Austin Gleeson foraging for the ball in a packed midfield on defensive duty, hoping to break forward at pace when their speed and skill would be put to much better use in attack giving Tadhg De Burca, Kevin Moran and Philip Mahony something to aim for with their clearances. The Waterford defensive formation, again with Tadhg De Burca the pivotal figure, clicked into gear for the last fifteen minutes of the first half with Wexford leading by 0-8 to 0-2. In that period Wexford succeeded in adding just a single point at the end of the half in reply to six from the visitors, five of which came from Shanahan (4fs). Though still trailing by a single point at half-time Waterford looked as though they had weathered the early Wexford onslaught and had matters well under control going into the second half. It was never going to be as simple as that. Despite the fact that there was no serious forward threat from the home side and with Stephen O’Keeffe’s duties throughout the game confined to puck-outs and clearances from long deliveries, Waterford threatened only sporadically at the other end. Apart from an early break forward by Dunford that should have yielded a goal in the first half and a similar run by Michael Walsh towards the end of the half, that should also have produced a major. While the work ethic remained strong throughout the second half Maurice Shanahan remained the only forward who looked like scoring from play. Austin Gleeson weighed in with two fine points from outfield but you could not say that he was a forward but rather one of what appeared to be a five man midfield. An unusual feature of Gleeson’s game on Sunday was that he sent at least four sideline cuts wide of the posts. Apart from Maurice, the only named forwards to score were Patrick Curran and Michael Walsh with a point each from outfield but at no time did we have forwards hovering around the opposition’s goal area to fasten on a breaking ball and strike to the net as Pat Horgan did against Galway. Defensively this Waterford side is very strong and it was a momentary lapse in concentration that allowed Conor McDonald in for that late goal that could have cost so dearly. Apart from Maurice Shanahan, Tadhg De Burca was the standout player for Waterford on Sunday with Kevin Moran and Philip Mahony also very much to the fore particularly when

under pressure in the closing minutes. As I have said the work rate throughout the team was strong and each player will fight for every ball. In midfield Jamie Barron’s ability to win possession and distribute the ball is unequalled and up front Jake Dillon and Michael Walsh are primarily ball winners and tremendous battlers and while the likes of Patrick Curran, Shane Bennett, Colin Dunford, Brian O’Halloran and Austin Gleeson are not found wanting when it comes battling for possession they are exceptionally skilful players who individually can be match winners and there are others in the squad. Each of those players can be to Waterford what Seamus Callanan or Bonner Maher is to Tipperary, Seamus Harnedy or Pat Horgan to Cork, T. J. Reid or Colin Fennelly to Kilkenny and John Conlon or Tony Kelly to Clare but in this Waterford side they are part of a defence minded strategy that takes them away from their natural habitat which is in attack. Against Galway we had a glimpse of what could be happening in every game with the performances of Shane Bennett, Brian O’Halloran and others and that is what should be happening in every game. For much of this game there appeared to be neither shape nor make to the Waterford line up. In the early part of the game it seemed to have settled into something of a 6, 5, 2, 1 formation with Maurice Shanahan and Austin Gleeson alternating as the lone ranger up front. We have gone through six league games scoring just one goal, that being Tom Devine’s memorable strike against Tipperary. Waterford can continue with the present system or ‘systems’, as we are told that the players automatically change formation to react to any given situation, and we may get by as long as our defence holds out and we score more points than our opponents but at what stage will we believe that we have players good enough to allow them to express themselves and play to their particular strengths. The below par performance against Dublin was put down to particularly heavy training sessions in the lead up to the game. Last Sunday’s performance could be attributed to a sense of complacency creeping into the side given the forecasts and expectations. The fact that they were playing Waterford in a knockout game was sufficient motivation for Wexford to raise their

game above anything they had produced earlier in this league. It was a very close call but as things turned out it may not have been a bad result at all in terms of another wake-up call. For Wexford the result was a big boost coming on the back of a very poor league campaign. As already said they are in a better place now and the pressure will be eased on Liam Dunne. There are some exceptional hurlers in Wexford such as Matthew O’Hanlon, Lee Chin, Andrew Shore, Diarmuid O’Keeffe and Podge Doran, who missed out through injury on Sunday, and they can turn things around in the coming months. For Waterford the focus remains on the championship semi – final against Clare and the result in Ennis on Sunday shows us just what a battle that is going to be, as if we did not already know. Scorers:Waterford – Maurice Shanahan 0-12 (9fs,1’ 65’), Austin Gleeson 0-2, Patrick Curran, Philip Mahony, Michael Walsh 0-1 each. Wexford – 0-4 (3fs, 1’ 65’), Conor McDonald 1-0, Lee Chin, Aidan Nolan and Harry Kehoe 0-2 each, Shane Tomkins and Paul Morris 0-1 each. Waterford – Stephen O’Keeffe, Shane Fives, Barry Coughlan, Noel Connors, Kevin Moran, Tadhg De Burca, Philip Mahony, Jamie Barron, Colin Dunford, Michael Walsh, Shane Bennett, Patrick Curran, Austin Gleeson, Maurice Shanahan, Jake Dillon. Subs – Tom Devine for Curran (45), Brian O’Halloran for Dillon (50), Mikey Kearney for Bennett (57), Shane McNulty for Connors (63). Wexford – Conor O’Leary, Liam Ryan, Matthew O’Hanlon, James Breen, Eoin Moore, Paudie Foley, Jack O’Connor, Lee Chin, Diarmuid O’Keeffe, Shane Tomkins, Ian Byrne, Aidan Nolan, Paul Morris, Conor McDonald, Liam O’McGovern. Subs – Harry Kehoe for O’Connor (32), Andrew Kenny for Nolan (57), Cathal Dunbar for Tomkins (62), David Dunne for McGovern (69). Referee – Johnny Ryan (Tipperary).

Footnote – A word about the referee on Sunday last. It was a terrible performance by Johnny Ryan but well up to his normal standard. Judging by press reports on some of the other games some of his elite colleagues did not exactly cover themselves in glory either. True the GAA does not make life easy for the whistle blowers with its edicts from on high but surely enough is enough and if the legion of referees’ assessors we have are doing their jobs surely it is time to give most of those guys who have been milking the cow for a long time now should be given their P45s and new blood brought in.

WEXFORD OUT-POINTED Score by Score in Innovate Wexford Park 1–10 mins. – A great early chance of a goal for Waterford as Colin Dunford is sent away on a solo run by Jamie Barron and an early goal looks on as he reaches the edge of the Wexford 12 metre square but he slightly delays his shot, is dispossessed while upended but no free is awarded and Wexford clear up field where they earn a free but Ian Byrne is wide. A fine Lee Chin point opens the scoring in the 4th minute and two minutes later Shane Tomkins follows up with another point from play. Wexford are outplaying and outworking Waterford in the early stage and Ian Byrne puts his side three points clear from a free. Waterford are packing midfield with little forward threat as Wexford go four points clear from a Paul Morris strike and Ian Byrne follows up with his second point from a free and Wexford’s fifth with eight minutes played and Waterford yet to register a score. 11–20 mins. – Maurice Shanahan, from a free, and Shane Bennett are both off target before Waterford eventually get on the scoreboard in the 12th minute with Patrick Curran collecting a side line cut from Philip Mahony and sending over from outfield. Wexford go five clear again when a totally unmarked Aidan Nolan is picked out on the left wing and he has plenty of time to steady and send his shot between the posts. The Waterford defence has to soak up pressure as Ian Byrne points his third free to stretch his side’s lead. Michael Walsh wins the puckout with a great catch and sends over Waterford’s second point but Wexford go six clear again when Walsh is dispossessed and Chin punishes the mistake with his second point of the game. 21–35 mins. With De Burca coming strongly into the game the Waterford defence is getting on top as Kevin Moran delivery from outfield is spilled by Conor O’Leary at the expense of a ‘65’ which Maurice Shanahan sends over. Colin Dunford and Jake Dillon combine to send Philip Mahony forward for a point in the 24th minute and Waterford step up the work rate as Walsh and Moran make the play for Shanahan to send over a great point from play. The same player adds another from a free following a foul on Dillon but Waterford squander a great chance of a goal when Michael Walsh breaks through, as Dunford did early

Shane Bennett congratulating Maurice Shanahan whose man of the match performance saw him scoring 12 points against Wexford last Sunday. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport] in the game, but with the same result as he fails to offload to the unmarked Patrick Curran to his right at the edge of the square and loses possession but is fouled and Shanahan points the free. With two minutes to go to half-time Shanahan levels the tie from another free and Wexford concerns at conceding six points without scoring are eased with substitute Harry Kehoe capitalising on great work by Lee Chin to give his side a 0-9 to 0-8 lead going into the second half. SECOND HALF 36–50 mins. – Austin Gleeson intercepts a Wexford sideline cut and breaks forward to level the tie for just the second time. Wexford are awarded a soft free but Ian Byrne is wide before the same player eases his side back in front with a point from a ‘65’ in the 42nd minute. Almost immediately the teams are level again with another Shanahan point from a free after a heavy foul on Dillon and in the 45th minute Waterford go into the lead with Shanahan’s seventh point, from a long range free, as Tom Devine replaces Patrick Curran in the Waterford attack. Wexford strike back to level with another Harry Kehoe point and the points continue to flow as Austin Gleeson breaks forward for the lead point and Aidan Nolan replies quickly to level yet again. Gleeson is wide from a sideline cut for the second time in the game but Maurice Shanahan points his side back into the lead with a great score on the run and off the stick, while under pressure, in the 48th minute. Wexford squander chances from frees and play, hitting three wides in succession as Brian O’Halloran replaces Dillon in the Waterford attack. 51–70 mins – Brian O’Halloran is fouled in full flight and Maurice puts Waterford two points clear for the first time. Wexford freetaker Ian Byrne is replaced by Andrew Shore and Conor McDonald is wide from his first free. Austin Gleeson is wide from a sideline cut for a

fourth time but Shanahan wins a puck-out, is fouled going forward, and puts his side three points clear from the free. Mikey Kearney replaces Shane Bennett up front and when Michael Walsh is fouled after winning possession Maurice puts Waterford four clear. Harry Kehoe is wide from a Wexford free as both sides continue with substitutions as Wexford send Andrew Kenny and Cathal Dunbar into the game and Shane McNulty replaces the injured Noel Connors in the Waterford defence. Referee Ryan makes an atrocious decision in penalising Gleeson for over-carrying after the player had been fouled at least three times going forward but De Burca makes a great catch and clearance as the free drops into the square. Waterford are looking comfortable going into the final minutes but the game is thrown wide open when a speculative lob into the Waterford goalmouth is caught by Conor McDonald who just about finds room to slip the ball over the line for a goal in the 66th minute that leaves just a point between the teams. Extra time looms as Diarmuid O’Keeffe makes a driving run out of defence along the stand side to set Harry Kehoe up for a great equalising point a minute later. Waterford attack along the right wing and Walsh is fouled, coming away after winning a battle for possession, and Maurice sends over the bar from a difficult free to regain the lead. A chance to go two clear follows after a gritty Kevin Moran is fouled coming away on the left flank. Shanahan’s free seems to have found the target but is waved wide. With play continuing beyond the allotted added time Wexford win a sideline cut on the Waterford twenty metre line. Conor McDonald is given the ball but his effort is low and cleared. The Waterford defence holds firm and after the referee is bowled over in a midfield scramble the final whistle sounds after the throw-in.

GAA

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Allianz National Football League Division 4 – Round 7

Footballers grind out deserving National League victory Waterford ..................... 0-10; Leitrim ............................ 1-6. GIVEN the horrendous conditions and the huge efforts put in by both teams in this NFL game at the Fraher Field last Saturday afternoon, a share of the spoils may have been an equitable result but nobody can deny Waterford their second league win after a frustrating campaign in which they were on the wrong side of results on so many occasions. Louth, Wexford and London all defeated Tom McClinchey’s men by a solitary point and in the first round of the league in Aughrim, Wicklow came out on top by a margin of 0-2. The Deise team manager has been gracious enough to comment that league displays by his charges have not been good enough but behind this is a story of huge commitment by the team every time they took to the field with little or no support in the stands as seen last Saturday when, of an announced attendance of 79, a total of 19 spectators paid into see the game. In many peoples’ eyes, the essence of sport is about the underdog and their efforts to succeed against all the odds and last Saturday the home team could have resigned themselves to a sixth league defeat when Leitrim full forward Ronan Kennedy’s 37th minute deflected kick knocked the rain drops of the country end goal netting and gave the visitors the lead for the first time at 1-3 to 0-4. However, competing also against the wind and the rain, the Deise team dragged themselves back into contention and their most commendable efforts won for them the remainder of the game by 0-6 to 0-3 to claim a very welcome and deserving victory. Bottom of the table last Friday night, Waterford had leapfrogged to fifth position on Saturday with London and Wicklow yet to play in Ruislip and with all games now played we have finished sixth and avoided a wooden spoon scenario. Off the eight teams in the division, Waterford have the fourth best defence and the performances of this varying group of seven have been as impressive as they have been commendable throughout. The Fraher Field was just about playable for this final league encounter with surface water in evidence all over the Shandon venue and the sodden and mud spattered jerseys tested the true merits of ‘Vanish’ no doubt when they hit the washing machine on Saturday evening. Any other game would have been postponed at the venue but, with Leitrim after travelling such a distance, this last league fixture was going ahead come hell or high water and the latter nearly did. The Deise lined-out with-

out Conor Prunty and Ray O Ceallaigh from the side that played London and they were replaced by James O’Mahony and Kieran Murphy (St. Saviours) respectively. The issuing of Black Cards is still inconsistent and they are usually reserved for the latter stages of games. An exception to this is when a player is tripped and, in this regard, James Mahony, was very unfortunate to receive the colour black as early as the 15th minute. In our view, the trip on Leitrim’s James McGrail wasn’t blatant as can often happen with trips, it was an innocuous foul and black cards for this offence are only supposed to be administered when the trip is deliberate. There was far more synical fouling on both sides when players were heading in on goal and the question still remains do we require this third card in our games as is it fair on players putting in a decent shift out on the pitch? Leitrim’s full back Niall Woods was one of the best players on view but he picked up a black card in the 42nd minute at a time when his side were 1-4 to 0-5 and his absence was a huge loss to the visitors for the remainder of the game. Referee James Bermingham from Cork was one of the best we have seen in this year’s league but he is saddled with this rule which hopefully will be reversed in time to come as both yellow and black are suffice to maintain order on our playing fields. Wearing number 14 but playing as an extra man between the halfback line and midfield, Liam Lawlor, as in the past, played this role to perfection and he was effective throughout. J. J. Hutchinson was our top scorer with 0-7 (6f) to his credit in difficult shooting conditions but it is no coincidence that the county’s second league win arrived using the ‘Lawlor system’, on his return from injury as when we won the McGrath Cup in 2015. Playing with the ‘weather’ Waterford shot into a 0-2 to 0-0 lead by the 7th minute, courtesy of pointed frees by Hutchinson but the score remained the same ten minutes later, which wasn’t a confidence boosting margin with the second half conditions to play against. Paul Whyte soloed forty metres and evaded a number of tackles to point from play in the 17th minute and Leitrim finally got off the mark when their free-taker, Emlyn Mulligan dissected the town end posts in the 17th minute. Michael O’Halloran, who had replaced James O’Mahony sustained a match ending leg injury in the 22nd minute while Leitrim at this stage were moving the ball more impressively and they were rewarded when Kevin Conlan placed Mulligan for a fine score from play. The win-

ners replied similarly in the 25th minute when Joey Veale assisted Patrick Hurney for Waterford’s fourth point and when corner back Barry Prior finished off a well worked Leitrim move in the 32nd minute, a minimum 0-1 lead of 0-4 to 0-3 didn’t inspire confidence in a home victory as the teams sought the welcome haven of the dressing rooms at the short whistle. The second half was only two minutes old when Waterford’s winning ambitions received a severely testing blow when Mulligan and Conlan provided the size 5 for full forward Ronan Kennedy and his kick on goal, deflected off a Deise defender deceived goalie David Whitty, who had a fine debut, in the country end of the field. One would expect Leitrim to drive on from this and they would have but for the steely resolve of the home players to halt the trend of narrow league defeats. The next score would tell a lot and Gavin Crotty, substitute Lorcan O Corraoin and Joey Veale all combined to send JJ Hutchinson in for his sole score from play and a fine one it was too. Leitrim tested the waters again with a 41st minute Ronan Lynch point but it was noticeable at this point that Waterford were coping well against the weather and winning a good share of the ball. This was confirmed with three unanswered points between the 43rd and the 46th minutes via two JJ Hutchinson pointed frees and a white flag by Paul Whyte, his second from play, at the conclusion of a good team move. The home team had thus regained the advantage at 0-8 to 1-4 and though Ronan Kennedy restored parity with a 49th minute pointed free, one felt that Waterford tails were up and that past frustrations would not be repeated on this occasion. The Deise were playing with a winning confidence, Leitrim were on the backfoot as their accumulation of four yellow cards in a seventeen minute period showed and when Hutchinson pointed his penultimate free in the 56th minute, the teams were level for the third and final time at 0-9 to 1-6. Conditions were worst in the second half and in the final sixteen minutes of play the pitch was like an ice ring with players slipping in search of, in picking up and in the use of the ball. Credit both sides for their brave efforts and the crucial score came on the hour mark, fittingly from the boot of J. J.

Hutchinson, when his seventh pointed free ultimately gave Waterford their second league win. Hutchinson’s clinched fists on the sounding of the referee’s final whistle demonstrated the pride of this set of players in the county jersey and when nominations for Footballer of the Year are publicised at the end of 2016, this group of players alone must be fully acknowledged in this most practical of ways. There are many observations floating that more should be done for football in the county and in clubs by club members but where are they when their teams at all age groups and in all levels are playing. The players are doing it all and best of luck to last Saturday’s team as they commence their preparations for their Munster Championship game against Tipperary in the Fraher Field on the weekend of May 28th /29th. Waterford’s Top Three: Liam Lawlor, JJ Hutchinson, Tadhg O hUallachain. Leitrim’s Top Three: Niall Woods, Emlyn Mulligan, Ronan Kennedy. Observer’s Man of the Match: Liam Lawlor. Observer’s Waterford Player of the League: Tadhg O hUallachain. Number of Scorers: Waterford: 3. Leitrim: 4. Scores from Play: Waterford: 0-4. Leitrim: 1-4. Frees For: Waterford: 28. Leitrim: 20. Wides Waterford: 7. Leitrim: 4. Score of the Match: Waterford’s 39th minute point engineered by Lorcan O Corraoin, Gavin Crotty and Joey Veale and executed by JJ Hutchinson. Scorers: Waterford: JJ Hutchinson 0-7 (6f), Paul Whyte 0-2, Patrick Hurney 0-1. Leitrim: Ronan Kennedy 1-2 (1f), Emyln Mulligan 0-2 (1f), Barry Prior and Killian McGriskin 0-1 each. Waterford: David Whitty; Tadhg O hUallachain, Maurice O’Gorman, Thomas O’Gorman; Michael Curry, Stephen Prendergast, Kieran Murphy; James O’Mahony, Craig Guiry; Gavin Crotty, Paul Whyte, Patrick Hurney; JJ Hutchinson, Liam Lawlor, Joey Veale. Subs: Michael O’Halloran for James O’Mahony b/c15), Lorcan O Corraoin for Michael O’Halloran (inj. 22), Shaun Corcoran for Kieran Murphy (71). Leitrim: Brendan Flynn; Barry Prior, Niall Woods, Michael Mc Weeney; Paddy Maguire, Gary Reynolds, Sean McWeeney; Donal Wrynn, James McGrail; James Rooney, Emyln Mulligan, Kevin Conlan; Conor Gaffney, Ronan Kennedy, Adrian Groal. Subs: Killian McGriskin for Niall Woods (b/c 42), Brian Mulvey for Adrian Groal (51), Thomas Mulvey for Conor Gaffney(56). Referee: James Bermingham (Cork).

ALLIANZ FOOTBALL LEAGUE ROINN 4 P W L D F A Pts ANTRIM 7 6 0 1 110 71 13 LOUTH 7 5 1 1 106 75 11 WEXFORD 7 5 2 0 134 92 10 CARLOW 7 3 4 0 92 120 6 WICKLOW 7 3 4 0 96 119 6 WATERFORD 7 2 5 0 86 94 4 LEITRIM 7 2 5 0 83 95 4 LONDON 7 1 6 0 83 124 2

Waterford's James O'Mahony is tackled by Leitrim's Gary Reynolds and Paddy Maguire during their Division 4 National Football League match in Fraher Field. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

2016 Waterford Club Championship regulations 1. ALL Club Championships shall be played in accordance with Rule 6-20 TO 2015 1-1 Where teams finish on equal points for qualification and the accumulated scores are affected by a disqualification or a walk-over the qualifying places shall be decided by drawing the teams involved. 2. Extra time shall be played in all Quarter-Finals. 3. Championship games shall be played under floodlights when required. 4. Any forced postponements will be re-fixed by the CCC for the next available date. In the case of Friday/Saturday night games, the ‘next available date’ should be taken to mean the following day. 5. Postponements shall be granted only on the bereavement of an immediate relative of a player or official after consultations with the CCC. The CCC may consider other applications. Postponements are subject to Regulation 4 above.

6. Applications for free dates must be in writing in advance of the commencement of the Championship. Regarding applications for a free date for a club wedding it shall be for the day of the wedding only and not a full weekend. If an alternative date cannot be agreed with the opposing team the game shall be scheduled as follows: if the wedding is on a Friday, the game shall be played on the previous Thursday or the following Sunday; if wedding is on a Saturday, the game shall be played the previous Thursday or Friday. Regulation 4 shall apply in all cases. 7. Applications to record games under the control of the CCC of An Choiste Chontae shall be made in writing by the participating clubs 72 hours before the commencement of the game. Permission shall be granted on condition that the recording is used solely for training and analysis purposes and

that an unedited copy of the recording is immediately made available to the CCC if requested. Penalty for not making the recording available shall be a fine of €1,000 and the withdrawal of recording permission for the club and for the company/individual who records the game for a time determined by the CCC. 8. Teams for championship games shall be with the County PRO/Runai at least 96 hours before the commencement of the game. Teams shall line out as per team sheet/programme. Penalty: €100 fine. Repeat contraventions will lead to increased penalties or misconduct charges under Treorai Oifigiuil. 9. Regulations governing the organisation of games shall be determined by the CCC. 10. Club training sessions or club challenge games are not permitted in Walsh Park or FraherField.

GAA

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Gaelic Jottings Maurice holds his nerve A 12-POINT haul from Maurice Shanahan helped Waterford to a narrow win over Wexford and into the Allianz Hurling League Division 1 semi-finals. The 2015 champions continued their strong form into the 2016 season and with only one loss out of five in Division 1A they were expected to dismiss Wexford. But playing at home the Division 1B team produced a stirring display and nearly pulled off a shock result. They burst into a 0-08 to 0-02 lead early on and even after Waterford muscled their way back into the contest, Wexford didn’t buckle. A second half goal kept the Yellow Bellies in it and coming down the stretch it looked as though they were going to do enough to force extratime. But a string of scoreable frees missed came back to bite them as Shanahan held his nerve over a dead ball from 50 metres out late on and fired Waterford into the last four. They will now face Limerick in a fortnight’s time. “It was great to see Maurice hold his nerve to strike that decisive winning point,” said Deise boss Derek McGrath. “He showed tremendous accuracy throughout, but this was a real team performance. It was our toughest game of the year so far; it felt like a real Championship match all through. In the end it was a very satisfying result. ‘We suffered a little bit after that Wexford start but the lads battled back. We can count ourselves somewhat fortunate but Wexford Park is always a difficult place to come and win.” While understandably disappointed with the result, Wexford Manager Liam Dunne was still happy with the side’s overall display. “Despite taking some knocks this year, we have been building and building. This was an opportunity for the lads to put their hands up. Credit to the young lads, they are starting to grow, having learned some harsh lessons along the way,” he said. “It’s encouraging for our young players and now we can look forward to Dublin in the Leinster quarterfinal.”

Championship opponents going well WATERFORD’S championship opponents in the Munster senior hurling semifinal on the 5th June, Clare lowered the colours of Tipperary in the Allianz NHL quarter final at Cusack Park last Sunday and both the win and the opposition they beat reminds us of the tough challenge that awaits Derek McGrath’s charges in Semple Stadium. Similar to ourselves, last Sunday’s victory gives Clare a meaningful fixture in the lead-up to the championship and none other than Kilkenny for the Banner County in their League semi-final clash on April 17th. Similarly, Limerick await us and both games will form a double header that all hurling followers can look forward to. A late goal from substitute Aaron Shanagher edged Clare into the Allianz Hurling League Division 1 semi-finals for the second time in three years at Cusack Park. With John Conlon's first-half goal handing the Banner a 1-7 to 0-8 half-time advantage, Tipperary appeared to be gaining the upper hand as the second period developed, having outscored their hosts by 0-9 to 0-4 to move three clear entering the final ten minutes. However, points from Cathal O'Connell and Conlon

sandwiched Shanagher's goal to turn the tie on its head and set-up a semi-final meeting with All-Ireland champions Kilkenny. Clare’s clinical touch in front of the posts was in total contrast to the visitors who had as many wides as scores over the 70 minutes. Clare opted to use captain Cian Dillon as a sweeper from the outset and it would allow the Banner to settle quicker as they moved 1-4 to 0-2 clear by the 20th minute. However, a more physical Tipperary began to move through the gears after points from Padraic Maher and John O’Dwyer finally pulled their side level for the first time in 37 minutes at 0-12 to 1-09 by the end of the third quarter. Three more from John McGrath helped put Tipperary into the ascendency by 0-17 to 1-11 as the game entered the final ten minutes. However, their inability to close out the game would ultimately come back to haunt them as Shanagher’s goal swung back the tie in Clare’s favour. And having built up a perfect start to 2016, the home side were not about to pass up the opportunity to make it ten successive victories as they dug deep in an anxious finale to face Kilkenny in a fortnight’s time. Clare: P. Kelly; P. Flanagan, P. O’Connor, C. O’Doherty; C. Cleary, C. Dillon, B. Bugler; D. Reidy, C. Ryan; A Cunningham, B. Duggan (0-03, 0-02f), C. McGrath (0-02); J. Conlon (1-01), D. Honan (0-03), C. Galvin (0-02) Subs: G. O’Connell for O’Doherty (30 mins), C. O’Connell (0-02, 0-02f) for Duggan (42 mins), Colin Ryan for Galvin (53 mins, inj), A. Shanagher (1-00) for Cunningham (54 mins), D. Fitzgerald for Reidy (61 mins).

The Rub of the Green DEREK McGrath says there was nothing between Wexford and his Waterford side in the Division One quarter-final at Wexford Park. The Munster side, who were 1/5 favourites going into the game, survived a scare against the Model opponents after coming away with a 0-17 to 1-13 win and afterward their manager admitted that his team were somewhat fortunate. “There was nothing between us, really,”. “And when we talk about nothing between teams maybe more people will believe us. We probably got the bit of luck, in the end, but we’re very happy. “Wexford, traditionally, when they’re written off are very, very dangerous.” McGrath also offered some support to counterpart Liam Dunne, who has recently had to deny rumours of unrest in the county after missing a training session last week whilst on holiday abroad. “I’m pleased for Liam, that he got such a good performance, because I know how hard he works,” he said. “It’s not some legion of managers here, some sudden affinity. I know in my first year we were relegated, and I went on holidays with my wife for four days, before the club championship. And I got a text to say Waterford hurling is in crisis, and the manager is in Portugal. I’m not poor-mouthing us either, and we know the scrutiny that comes with it, but the workload is huge, and the sustainability of that into the future is questionable.

League opponents back to full force WATERFORD’S opponents in next Sunday week’s Allianz NHL semi final, Limerick are back to full strength with the return of the eight Na Piarsaigh players to the panel after their successful All Ireland

Laochra Gael 2016

This week’s programme features Meath’s Trevor Giles LAOCHRA GAEL 2016 Sunday, 10th April, at 5.55 p.m. on TG4 REPEAT: Mondays at 8.00 p.m. on TG4 THE popular GAA documentary series Laochra Gael returns to TG4 this spring every Sunday evening after GAA Beo. Profiling the feats of Gaelic Games’ greatest players this series has lots in store for GAA fans around the country.

The 8th Programme in this series of Laochra Gael features Meath footballing hero Trevor Giles. Trevor Giles, a well rounded footballer who could play in center half back for his club, Skryne, and half forward for Meath won 2 All Stars in 1996 and 1997. After an injury in 1998 Giles had to take a year out, he returned in 1999 and had one of his most successful years, winning another All Star and Texaco Footballer of the Year. Giles was also

club campaign. The difference this has made to the team was in evidence at Parnell Park last Saturday evening when the Shannonsiders beat Division 1 team Dublin in the league quarter final by 1-21 to 1-19 and so qualify for a tilt at reigning champions Waterford on Sunday week. It was a boost in the wake of the disappointment at losing out on Division 1B promotion a fortnight ago against Clare. Manager TJ Ryan said : “We were missing 25 per cent of our panel for the whole league. This team in three years in Division 1B has only lost two Round Robin games and in both those games we had a man sent off. “We’re a young side. But this is our first week that we’ve had a full panel together. The Na Piarsaigh guys make a huge difference, even just being able to play 15 on 15 in training is a big thing. We are improving, we’ll need to and the next day will be a tougher challenge.”

Deise Day at Punchestown Saturday, 30th April, 2016 THE Punchestown Irish National Hunt Festival is one of the highlights of the Irish sporting and social calendar. The 5 day racing festival takes place from Tuesday 26th to Saturday 30th April 2016. Waterford GAA and Waterford Ladies Gaelic Football Association have teamed up and will hold Deise Day at Punchestown on Saturday April 30th.Tickets for the day are on sale now

part of the International Rules team from 1999 to 2002. Contributions from Graham Geraghty, Ciaran Whelan and Seán Óg de Paor also. Still to come in this season’s batch of GAA legends also includes; With a truly marathon career in ladies football, from 1997 to 2015 Galway’s Annette Clarke was their midfield star from start to finish: And finally, four brothers from the small east Galway village Caltra who have had a huge influence on that

at €150 per person/€1,500 for a table of 10: Ticket price includes - Admission and reserved enclosure badge; Four course meal with complimentary wine; Racecard; Afternoon Tea; Live music - The Cider Wasps; Private Betting and Bar Facilities; MC Ted Walsh Jnr. Bus to and from Punchestown There will be a bus to and from Punchestown racecourse, pick up times 9 a.m - Lady Belle Pub Dungarvan, 9.30 a.m - Crottys bar Lemybrien (Car Park) and 10.10 a.m. at the Granville Hotel Waterford. Bus price €10 per person. To secure your tickets and place on our bus, tickets must be purchased no later than Friday 15th April. Where to purchase tickets Tickets can be purchased from any of the Deise Day Committee John Jackson, John Jeff Murphy, Patricia Ferncombe, Nicky Sheehan, Michael Ryan, Anthony Walsh, Pat Grant & Lisa Cronin or else from the Lady Belle Pub Dungarvan or alternatively contact Edel, secretary Deise Day committee email: deiseday15secretary@yahoo.com or mobile 086-0777617.

The Mighty Quinns 33 YEARS after Niall Quinn lined out for the Dublin Minor hurlers and won a Leinster medal, his son Mikey was part of the Dublin squad that saw off Kildare in the Provincial decider at Páirc Tailteann. Mikey was Dublin’s substitute goalkeeper but he plays his club football for the Eadestown in Kildare. Niall was capped

county’s status and of their club too, the Meehans, brothers Declan, Tomás, Noel and Michael. The new Laochra Gael season will air on TG4 at 5:55 p.m. on Sunday evening with a repeat showing on Monday evening at 8:00 p.m. The series is produced by Nemeton TV, the independent production company from Ring in the Waterford Gaeltacht which has produced much of TG4’s acclaimed sports coverage.

92 times for the Irish senior soccer team but missed out on an All-Ireland medal in the 1983 minor hurling decider when Dublin were defeated by Galway. His son now has a chance to bring an All-Ireland medal to the family as Dublin have advanced to an All-Ireland semi-final meeting with Mayo on 16th April.

Scór Na Seachtaine MAURICE Shanahan’s pointed free under pressure to clinch Waterford’s narrow win over Wexford in Wexford last Sunday at a time when the game was level at 0-16 to 1-13.

Fraher Field Classics THIS week’s featured game on the Fraher Field Classics facebook page, courtesy of the editor of the Dungarvan Observer and from the pen of John A. Murphy features the 1964 Western Junior hurling final between Ardmore and Abbeyside on the 15th of November.

Sympathy THE Observer extends its sincere sympathy to a family with deep rooted connections in Waterford GAA, the Goode’s from Church Street in Dungarvan, on the recent death of Paul Goode in Dublin.

GAA

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Waterford Senior Ladies overcome Down WATERFORD ladies continued their unbeaten run in the Lidl National Football Division 3 when they overcame a dogged determined Down team. Languishing at the foot of the table Waterford’s centre forward Ciara Hurley opened the scoring with a free in the 1st minute but Down put it up to the Waterford girls from the start and very impressive centre forward Kate McKay opened their account in the 6th minute with a good point. Both centre forwards traded points before McKay put an unstoppable shot past Waterford goalie Katie Hannon in the 23rd minute to leave the northern girls three points to the good. Ciara Hurley got a point back for the Déise girls to narrow the gap in the 24th minute before Nicole Catney stretched the Down lead with a point in the 30th minute before Kate McKay brought her total in the first half to 1-3 with a point just before referee Jason Mullins blew the half time whistle with Down ahead on the scoreline Down 1-4; Waterford 0-3. Waterford opened brightly in the second half, a point from Róisín Tobin in the first minute followed by one from Michelle Ryan in the 6th minute left two between the sides before Maria Delahunty struck for a goal in the 8th minute to put Waterford ahead for the first time. Aisling Mullaney kicked a good point to extend the Waterford lead a minute later but Down came back with two points of their own from

Ladies Gaelic Football Association National League at Ardmore. Waterford's Chloe Fennell is fouled by Down's Aimee Greene during the Ladies Football National League game played at Ardmore. [Dan McGrath/Editorial Images] Mairead Kavanagh and Kate McKay to keep the Waterford lead down. Katie Murray pointed for Waterford in the 14th minute keep Waterford noses in front but Down

never gave up and points in the 17th minute from Nicole Catney and one in the 19th minute from Kate McKay in the 19th minute left the teams all square at 1-8 apiece

to ensure a tense last ten minutes for the Waterford girls. In the last ten minutes the experience of the Waterford girls shone through with points from Katie Murray, Caoimhe McGrath, Michelle Ryan (2) and Linda Wall ensured that Waterford did enough to preserve their 100% record in the league and qualify for the semi-finals with a game to spare. Next up for the Deise girls is a trip to Roscommon next weekend. MINORS EASILY DEFEAT CLARE On Monday last, Waterford minors easily overcame the challenge of Clare in the first round of the Munster championship. On top in all departments Waterford set about their task with vigour and led at half-time on the scoreline 2-9 to 1-0. In the second half, Waterford kept up the pressure and ran out easy winners in the end on a score of Waterford 8-16 Clare 2-0. Waterford’s next assignment is against Limerick. UNDER 16s GET MUNSTER CAMPAIGN BACK ON TRACK Following their one point defeat by Tipperary on St. Patrick’s Day, the Waterford under 16 ladies team got their campaign to reach a Munster final back on track with a good win against Clare on Saturday last. Putting in a much improved performance, Waterford took control from the start to establish a commanding lead at half time on the score-line 1-11 to 0-2 and

eventually won by eleven points on the final scoreline 2-15 to 2-5. Next up for the Waterford girls is a winner takes all tie with Limerick with the winners advancing to meet Tipperary in the Munster final. UNDER 14s UNLUCKY Waterford’s under 14 team narrowly missed out on qualifying for the Munster B final. In the crucial Round Robin game against Limerick, the two teams played out a thrilling draw on the score-line Waterford 5-5; Limerick 4-8. This left both teams level on three league points each but by virtue of having a better scoring difference Limerick qualified for a Munster B final against Tipperary. Waterford now play Clare in a Munster C final. DÉISE DAY UPDATE DEISE DAY AT PUNCHESTOWN SATURDAY, 30th APRIL 2016 The Punchestown Irish National Hunt Festival is one of the highlights of the Irish sporting and social calendar. The 5 day racing festival takes place from Tuesday 26th to Saturday 30th April 2016. Waterford GAA and Waterford Ladies Gaelic Football Association have teamed up and will hold Deise Day at Punchestown on Saturday April 30th. Tickets for the day are on sale now at €150 per person/€1,500 for a table of 10: Ticket price includes - admission and reserved enclosure badge; Four course meal with complimentary wine; Racecard; Afternoon

Tea; Live music - The Cider Wasps; Private Betting and Bar Facilities; MC Ted Walsh Jnr. BUS TO AND FROM PUNCHESTOWN We are organising a bus to and from Punchestown racecourse, pick up times - 9 a.m - Lady Belle Pub Dungarvan, 9.30 a.m - Crotty’s Bar Lemybrien (Car Park) and 10.10 a.m. at the Granville Hotel, Waterford. Bus price €10 per person. To secure your tickets and place on our bus, tickets must be purchased no later than Friday, 15th April. WHERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS Tickets can be purchased from any of the Deise Day committee John Jackson, John Jeff Murphy, Patricia Ferncombe, Nicky Sheehan, Michael Ryan, Anthony Walsh, Pat Grant & Lisa Cronin or else from the Lady Belle Pub Dungarvan or alternatively contact Edel, secretary Deise Day committee email: deiseday15secretary@yahoo.com or mobile 0860777617. GOLF CLASSIC A sincere thank you to all who purchased tickets for our raffle in conjunction with our Golf Classic which will be held in Dungarvan Golf Club on the 15th and 16th April. Time sheets for the classic available from Trish Fitzgerald at 0861664215. Teams of 4 for €120.

Electric Ireland Munster Minor Hurling Championship WATERFORD -vCORK in Walsh Park, Wednesday, April 6th at 6.30 pm. WATERFORD will play Cork in the first round of the Electric Ireland Munster Hurling Minor Championship on this Wednesday, April 6th at 6:30 pm in Walsh Park, Waterford. The fruits of months of preparation for both Waterford and Cork will be on view in Walsh Park this Wednesday evening when the teams meet in the first round of the Munster championship in what is effectively a quarter final encounter. The game has been moved forward to 6.30 pm as there are no floodlighting facilities in Walsh Park, which may not be even early enough if the tie goes to extra time. The word on the street is that Cork hurling is on the way up at underage level after years in the doldrums and that this surge now will be the catalyst for an

Billy Nolan (Roanmore)

improvement at adult level into the future. Cork won their first round minor game against Limerick in 2015 by 2-20 to 1-13 but the Shannonsiders later exacted revenge in the semi-final when they beat Denis Ring’s charges by 1-14 to 0-14. Despite playing away from home, they will be favourites to advance to the semi-final at the first attempt while there is much speculation in Waterford that our current side is not as strong as teams in recent years. However, Waterford have prepared diligently over the winter and last week they concluded their useful challenge game programme against Kilkenny on Easter Monday and against Dublin last Wednesday evening. Both games were played in Walsh Park which will be a help why Cork have had a training session at the venue as well. Roanmore’s Stephen Gough is the team manager and his fellow selectors are Donnachadha Enright (Abbeyside/ Ballinacourty), Sean Reid (St. Mollerans), Eamonn Reid (Ballyduff Lower) and Fintan Murray, a former selector on the Cappoquin intermediate team that won the Munster title in 2014. Of the two recent challenge games, sources indicate that the team that beat Kilkenny by a few points resembles most the side likely to take to the field this evening. Playing against Kilkenny but not against Dublin were Conor Giles Doran (De La Salle), Darragh

McGrath and Neil Montgomery (Abbeyside), Eoin McGrath (Clann Na Gael) and Jack Prendergast (St. Carthages). The full line-out against Kilkenny was as follows: Billy Nolan (Roanmore); Conor Giles Doran (De La Salle), James Flavin (Ardmore), Donal Power (Passage); Darraghg McGrath (Abbeyside), Eoghan Murray (Ballyduff), Mikey O’Brien (St. Olivers); Cathal Curran (Brickeys), Harry Ruddle (Ballygunner); Eoin McGrath (Clann Na Gael), Kieran Kirwan (Fenor), Neil Montgomery (Abbeyside); Jack Prendergast (Lismore), Thomas Douglas (De La Salle), Michael Mahony (Ballygunner). In a scoreline that flattered Waterford, Dublin won the second challenge game last week by 1-16 to 1-12 on a very heavy Walsh Park sod after torrential hail showers. A stronger physically Dublin outfit dominated the outfield exchanges and worrying from a Waterford point of view was

Jack Prendergast (St. Carthage’s)

the inability to win the high ball throughout. The winners, who enjoyed the luxury of two loose players at the back at times led at the short whistle by 0-7 to 0-4 with all of the home team’s scores coming from the stick of midfielder Eoghan Murray (0-43f). The Waterford selectors introduced nine different players at the start of the second half and this improved matters considerably against the same Dublin outfit. A player who really impressed was Clonea’s Billy Power in the forward line, scoring 0-4, (0-1f) and making other scores but he may not be in the plans for a starting position this evening or a place in the panel of 24. His enthusiasm for the game was greater than many of the other forwards in the first and in the second half. The Deise team lined-out as follows against Dublin: Billy Nolan (Roanmore); Martin Power (Clonea). James Flavin (Ardmore), Tom Barron (Fourmilewater); Donal Power (Passage), Harry Ruddle (Ballygunner), Mikey O’Brien (St. Olivers); Eoghan Murray (Ballyduff), Cathal Curran (Brickeys); Conor Dalton (Clonea), Michael Mahony (Ballygunner), Dylan Guiry (Fourmilewater); Kieran Kirwan (Fenor), Glen Waters (Dungarvan), Thomas Douglas (De La Salle). Subs who played: Conor O Cuirrin (An Ghaeltacht), Jack Lacey (Dungarvan), Eoghan Casey (Clann Na Gael), Mikey Hutchinson (Ballygunner), Oisin Hickey (Ballyduff), Billy Power (Clonea), Ben

Flanagan (Mt. Sion), Billy O’Sullivan (Ballygunner), Mikey Costigan (De La Salle). THE OUTCOME Cork will be favourites to win out but, no doubt, Waterford will not be handing them their ticket to the semifinal on a plate. Billy Nolan will most likely start in goal but his presence in the forward line would bolster this sector and there is a capable replacement for him between the sticks in Portlaw’s Luke Power. Donal Power from Passage is a key defender on the team and one of the players expected to lead this Deise outfit. Darragh McGrath, Eoghan Murray and Mikey O’Brien are likely to form a hard working and solid half line with Cathal Curran and Harry Ruddle seeking parity i lar na pairce. The scoring prowess of whatever Waterford sextet that is selected will go a long ways towards deciding this game. Such as Eoin McGrath, Neil Montgomery

Eoghan Murray (Ballyduff)

and Jack Prendergast know where the posts are while De La Salle’s Thomas Douglas can turn it on but his work rate at times is suspect. COMMON SENSE When big matches are on in Walsh Park, common sense prevails by the Gardai, when they allow cars to park on double yellow lines as there is no parking facilities at the venue. In contrast, their Cork equals made a killing in the same situation at the Allianz NHL game in Pairc Ui Rinn in February, when, despite the absence of parking facilities at the venue, they inflicted €40 fines on supporters enjoying the game on an already expensive evening. It seems that common sense isn’t that common after all up Leeside. Ticket Details Adult: €10.00 Concession: rebate of €5.00 available on full price Adult tickets on match day at the designated stile with valid ID Juvenile (Under 16 years of Age): Free of charge All tickets for this fixture are UNRESERVED. WATERFORD AND CORK MINOR HURLING TEAMS ANNOUNCED The Waterford minor hurling team to play Cork in Walsh Park this Wednesday evening was announced last Monday night as follows: 1. Billy Nolan (Roanmore), 2. Conor Giles Doran (De La Salle), 3. James Flavin (Ardmore), 4. Darragh McGrath (Abbeyside), 5. Donal Power (Passage), 6. Eoghan Murray (Ballyduff

Upper), 7. Michael O'Brien (Ballinameela), 8. Eoin McGrath (Butlerstown), 9. Harry Ruddle Redmond (Ballygunner), 10. Jack Prendergast (Lismore), 11. Dylan Guiry (Fourmilewater), 12. Cathal Curran (Brickey Rangers), 13. Michael Mahony (Ballygunner) – Capt., 14. Neil Montgomery (Abbeyside), 15. Thomas Douglas (De La Salle). The Cork minor hurling team has also been released as follows: 1. Ger Collins – Ballinhassig, 2. Paul Lyons – Mallow, 3. Niall O’Leary Castlelyons- Captain, 4. Sean O’Leary Hayes Midleton, 5. John Cooper Eire Og, 6. Ryan Walsh Cuchulann's, 7. Eoghan Clifford – Cloughduv, 8. Cian O’Mahony – Ballinhassig, 9. Robbie Bourke – Ballincollig, 10. John Sullivan – Blackrock, 11. Matthew Bradley - Aghabullogue, 12. Stephen Condon - Harbour Rovers, 13. Evan Sheehan Na Piarsaigh, 14. Josh Beausang - St. Colman"s, 15. Liam Healy –Sarsfields.

Glen Waters (Dungarvan)

GAA

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

2016 Championship Football year commences this weekend IT’S big ball action this weekend when all the championship grades senior, intermediate, junior and junior attached get under way throughout the county. Stradbally will be defending their 2015 title in the senior grade while in all of the other three grades, there will definitely be new champions in 2016 as Ballinameela, Modeligo and Ballinacourty’s third team have all moved on a grade having won county titles and ensured promotion to a higher level. JJ KAVANAGH AND SONS COUNTY SENIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP GROUP A: Saturday, April 9th: Ballinameela v Stradbally in Fraher Field at 6.30 pm. Saturday, April 9th: Brickeys v Rathgormack in Fraher Field at 8 pm. Sunday, April 10th: Clashmore/Kinsalebeg v Kilrossanty in Fraher Field at 7.30 pm. All Group ‘A’ games will be played at the Fraher Field with the venue hosting a double header on the Saturday evening. First up are reigning champions Stradbally and newly promoted Ballinameela with the Reds exspected to get the defence of the Conway Cup off to a winning start. If Stradbally don’t play to their best and Ballinameela play to their very best, then we could have a close encounter here while the lat-

ter will be hoping to improve on their poor start to the championship in both codes in 2015. Forecast: Stradbally. The Brickeys and Rathgormack match has a special attraction about it as whoever wins the two points here will fancy their chances of qualifying for the knockout stages even at this early stage and whoever loses out will have one eye over their shoulder already in the other direction. Rathgormack won the under 21 county title in 2015 and have been successful at this level in recent years but they have not translated this promise thus far to senior ranks. Sunday’s game should inform us some way if this trend is about to change. The Bushy Park team are a hard nut to crack in the group stages and eventual champions Stradbally were made fight all the way before defeating them last year by 013 to 0-10. A successful championship year for Dermot O’Neill’s men will be reaching the knockout stages with the extra ambition to secure a semi final placing. This should be a very even contest with a share of the spoils not to be over ruled. Forecast: A Draw. In some peoples’ eyes Kilrossanty are a team on the way up and Clashmore/ Kinsalebeg are a team on the way down. A few years back, both teams looked to be top four contenders with the Clashmore outfit showing

more promise but there was a turn around last year and especially in the quarter finals when the comeragh club scored a decisive win over their opponents this week end. Kilrossanty’s new management team last year brought a dedication and fitness to their charges hither to absent and if they can build on 2015, the new championship could be a successful one for them. Sometimes the first year is the best one so we will have to wait and see which Kilrossanty unfolds this time round. Clashmore lost momentum last year with a number of injuries to deal with but this will be a vital season for them in both football and hurling if they are to get back on track and not stagnate. They will see this year as a disappointment if they don’t qualify for the knockout stages in football but they may have to wait longer than this weekend to record their first win in this season’s campaign. Forecast: Kilrossanty. GROUP ‘B’ Sunday, April 10th: St. Saviours v Ballinacourty in Kill at 2 pm. Sunday, April 10th: Gaultier v An Rinn in Kill at 3.30 pm. Sunday, April 10th: Nire v Ardmore in Fraher Field at 6 pm. St. Saviours and Ballinacourty are no strangers to one another as they play one another with

annual regularity. Their highest profile game in the past few years was a quarter final clash which ‘Courty won by a handsome margin and this should be the case again this Sunday. Saviours are a harden battled outfit and they play accordingly but they don’t possess the depth in talent of the local team. A win here for the city team would be the surprise of the year although it is still in its infancy and they will have to wait until the following week against Ardmore to have hopes of getting off the mark in this year’s championship and that won’t be an easy task also. With the amount of talent coming through to Ballinacourty from their successful underage section, they will be there or there abouts for quite some time when senior championships are being contested. It’s three years since Ballinacourty won their sixth senior title and the big question is can they mirror their underage dominance at senior level. They are certainly the powerhouse of Waterford football at present with teams in each of the premier football championships i.e. senior, intermediate and Junior, unrivalled subject to correction by any other club in the county. They should get off the mark in Kill this year for 2016 with bigger fish to fry further down the road. Forecast: Ballinacourty. Gaultier beat An Rinn in a game of importance at the tail end of last year’s champ-

Stradbally's Robert Aherne and Nire's Thomas O'Gorman who both will see action this week. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport] ionship and they are difficult, outside of the top three teams, to beat on any given day. They have been strong at under age level in recent years and, with the pick of Ballygunner and Passage and the Barony in general, they should improve further in the immediate future. Wayne Hutchinson is back in their colours again this year and with younger brother J.J. firing on all cylinders at the

moment, they are well capable of taking the match points here. An Rinn were heading for a top four rating up to two years ago but a heavy defeat at the hands of Stradbally in a championship knockout game seems to have stopped that trend in its tracks. An Rinn won’t be happy with their 2015 championship campaign and with key player Donie Breathnach gone to America for the year, this

could even be a more difficult championship year for the Gaeltacht men. They have players coming through from An Ghaeltacht sides but the question is has the team in general got the experience to turn their fortunes around in 2016? An Rinn play Ballinacourty in their second game so a result here is extra important at this early stage of the year. Forecast: Gaultier. Nobody wants to be drawn against Nire in the first round of the championship but this is the hand dealt to Ardmore this weekend. Ardmore reached the knockout stages in 2015, they are an experienced side and they have some fine young players making the transition to the senior grade better than others and Tommy Power and Michael O’Neill are among the young Ardmore players to watch out for this year. However, they are pitted against a Nire side that should have a Munster senior club title under their belt since 2015. This is the pedigree of the Nire side, who will be disappointed exiting the championship last year at the semi final stage to the eventual winners Stradbally. They are a side that will not go away for long though and recent championship title wins at minor and under 21 level show that the Nire conveyor belt is in full swing. Nire should have two points on the board come Sunday night. Forecast: Nire.

Radley Engineering Western Intermediate Football Championship

Who will replace Ballinameela as Western champions WITH Brickeys and Ballinameela safely dispatched to the senior grade for another year at least, this year’s Western intermediate football title is up for grabs with the front runners being Geraldines, Ballinacourty, Ballyduff and newcomers to the grade Modeligo. In the hurling world Modeligo won back to back titles in junior and intermediate and with the brand of football they played in 2015 they should be a match for any team this season. Friday, April 8th: Nire v Ballinacourty in Fraher Field at 8 pm. Saturday, April 9th: Ballyduff v Modeligo in Lismore at 7 pm. Saturday, April 9th: Geraldines v Dungarvan in Bushy Park at 7 pm. Both Nire and Ballinacourty will have the services of regraded players as this game is on before the senior fixtures and it should benefit the Nire more so as Ballinacourty have settled panels in both grades bar one or two exceptions. Depending on the players available to the Nire, they can push ‘Courty hard here, especially with some of their recent Western winning under 21 team on board but the local side are the nearest second team string to winning this title in recent years and they should get their championship campaign off to a winning start on Friday. Forecast: Ballinacourty. Ballyduff will test Modeligo in their first intermediate game in Lismore on Saturday night. The Reds may or may not have much preparation done for the football season but either way, they will work hard for the hour in the best traditions of the club. Western champions a few years ago, they will be disappointed with their semi final performance against Geraldines in 2015 and at their best they are a match for any team in this grade.

Modeligo were very impressive in the latter stages of last year’s junior championship and this first game won’t be long in telling us how they will fare at this higher level. They possess a settled team in both codes and if they can produce the same standard of football this year then they can be the dark horses of the 2016 championship. Conor Prendergast’s charges are accustomed to winning and nothing succeeds like success but they may have to wait a little longer to record their first win at intermediate level. Forecast: Ballyduff. Geraldines still feel that they left last year’s title behind them the first day against Ballinameela and one would have to agree with this opinion. If they can reproduce their overall form of 2015 then they will be shortlisted to win the title. The last two times the Gers played Dungarvan, they came out on top in Cappoquin and in Bushy Park and they will be favourites to make it three in a row at the latter venue on Saturday. Dungarvan avoided demotion to the junior grade in 2015 with a narrow win over Sliabh gCua in the relegation play-off. The Blues lost all their Group games and they were fortunate that there was a play off game to fall back on. County champions in this grade in 2011, the Blues have put all their efforts into hurling in recent years and prior to the championship it is difficult to see them beat the Geraldines this weekend. Forecast: Geraldines. Lawlors Hotel Western Premier Junior Football Championship Friday April 8th: Lismore v Affane in Ballyduff at 7.30 pm Saturday April 9th: Tallow v Shamrocks in Lismore at 5.30 pm.

Sunday April 10th: Sean Phobail v Ballinacourty in Fraher Field at 1.30 pm. Sunday April 10th: Sliabh gCua v Colligan Emmetts in Fraher Field at 3 pm. THE junior championship has a new look about it with three new teams involved for varying reasons. Lismore have re entered the championship after a short absence, Sliabh gCua have been relegated from intermediate and Ballinacourty’s third team have been promoted after winning the county junior attached final in 2015. Each of the eight teams will play seven games and despite a motion to convention by the Shamrocks to change the championship format, the two thirds majority to prevent all teams still being involved in the title race at the end of the Group games was not attained. The real action so will happen much later in the year. Like a number of other clubs in various grades, Affane don’t seem to have much interest in the big ball, though they would be potential challengers while Lismore have no form to go on so Affane are likely to get off to a winning start in Ballyduff on Friday evening. Both Tallow and the Shamrocks enjoyed relatively good championship campaigns in 2015 and they would be top four teams at this level. Tallow seem to have the greater armoury here and should take their first brace of group points at the Lismore venue. There is a double header in the Fraher Field on Sunday with Sean Phobail and Ballinacourty getting proceedings underway at 1.30 pm. Champions in 2014, Sean Phobail will be trying to regroup this year and return some or their many players absent for varying genuine reasons to championship action. They

can still be a force in this championship and they should get off to a winning start on Sunday. Ballinacourty were a class apart in the Attached grade in 2015 and it is some achievement for the club to successfully field three teams in both codes. Pitting them against the likes of Emmetts, Sliabh gCua and Sunday’s opponents may be a bridge too far for a third string club team and hopefully they can remain competitive in this grade to maintain their interest in the championship throughout. The second game at the Shandon venue between Sliabh gCua and Emmetts could well be the Western final pairing down the line. With Modeligo promoted, Emmetts would be their natural successors but Sliabh gCua have come down to spoil the party. This should be an even enough encounter but the Touraneena club’s experience in recent years at the higher level can give them victory here. This should be the best game over the weekend in this grade. Lawlors Hotel Western Junior Football, Intermediate Attached Championship. Sunday, April 10th: Geraldines v Ballysaggart in Aglish at 12 noon Sunday, April 10th: Melleray v Kilgobinet in Melleray at 12 noon. THIS has become a very open championship with Ballinacourty being promoted to the higher junior level. The fore runners would seem to be Ballysaggart and Kilgobinet and both should record wins on Sunday. Geraldines are a second string outfit and will have played an intermediate game before Sunday while Melleray will always be tough opposition and especially so this week end playing on their home soil.

GAA

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Waterford Minor Camogie Team

Waterford Camogie News sponsored by DID Electrical

All-Ireland Minor A Championship Round 4 Waterford .....................…… 1-04; Limerick ......................…… 3-11. HARD luck to our minors who were comprehensively beaten by Limerick on Sunday last. Waterford minors made great progress this year where they beat Galway and were narrowly beaten by Cork and Wexford. The girls can be very proud of themselves. Next match up for the minors will be the Munster championship which will commence in July. A NIGHT AT THE DOGS – KILCOHAN DOG TRACK 9th APRIL Our big fundraiser of the year takes place this Saturday. Our costs have significantly increased with all teams competing at the top level. Tickets are on sale in all clubs

for our upcoming Dog night. Tickets will also be available from Dungarvan Shopping Centre next week. We would encourage as many people to buy tickets and come and support Waterford Camogie on the night. Also if there are any businesses interested in sponsoring a race or putting an ad in our programme please contact John Flood on 087 6684474 or Lynsey Tutty on 086 8113531. All support is gratefully appreciated. CLUB SEASON KICKS-OFFS WITH LISMORE LOOKING FOR FOURTH LEAGUE TITLE IN FIVE YEARS This year’s County Camogie Leagues are set to begin on April 10th. Lismore who have won four of the last final finals and who were

presented with the Denny Buckley Cup, put up in hour of a man that did so much work to promote Camogie in the Lismore area have a bye in the first round of games in the Senior League. The Heritage town side will know that to win a fourth title will not happen easy as they face strong opposition from Cappoquin who were beaten in the final last year at Tallow, Saint Anne’s who they have played in the County Championship final in the last number of years and who won the competition in 2014, while Gaultier and An Rinn are sides that are getting stronger all the time and will be able to call on a number of players who have considerable inter county experience at different

levels. In the Intermediate League, De La Salle will be looking to win back to back promotions, winning a Junior League and Championship double in 2015 but know that they will have to be at their best to do so as they will face strong opposition from Dungarvan, Ferrybank and Butlerstown. In the Junior League, Portlaw, Clonea, Tallow and Tramore all do battle with each other in a competition where little is expected to separate the sides. Across all three divisions, games are played at 13 aside with the top two teams in each division contesting the final. SENIOR LEAGUE ROUND 1 FIXTURES ON APRIL 10th

County Senior Football League/Phelan Cup GROUP A Ardmore .........................………….. 0-8; An Rinn ..........................………….. 0-5. PLAYED in Ardmore last Saturday afternoon, this was the only game in Group A that survived the weekend’s inclement weather with both the Brickeys v St. Saviours match and the local derby between Kilrossanty and Stradbally failing to materialise. Ardmore team: Sean Barron, Daniel Power, Declan Prendergast, Declan Fitzgerald, Niall Hennessy, Seamus Prendergast, Tony Galwey, Seamus Keating, David Gartland, James Kennedy, Wayne Hennessy, Charlie Bryan, Stephen Keating, Shane Leahy, John O’Brien. Subs: Ritchie Hennessy, Eoin O’Connor, Cathal Hennessy, Christopher Power, Nigel Twohig Scorers: J. Kennedy 0-3, W. Hennessy 0-2, S. Leahy 0-2, T. Galwey 0-1. The game was marred by a bad injury to An Rinn’s Cathal O Cuirrin who was stretchered off with a suspected broken ankle and to whom we wish a complete recovery in time.

GROUP B Two games were played in Group B with Rathgormack maintaining their unbeaten run with a comprehensive 4-9 to 0-5 defeat if Gaultier in a game that was played at the St. Mollerans venue. The Nire v Clashmore/ Kinsalebeg game fell foul of the weather while Ballinacourty are chasing down Rathgormack on the league table after defeating Ballinameela at the Burgery Grounds. Ballinacourty ................................. 1-11; Ballinameela ................................... 0-5. PLAYED in Abbeyside on Saturday night conditions were anything but good and despite the conditions both teams tried to play attacking football. Ballinameela played with the breeze in the first half and stayed with Ballinacourty at the break only trailing by 2 points, 0-6 to 0-4. Early in the second half Balliancourty substitute M. Ferncombe took a free on the 20m line and out near the sideline and from the free the ball deceived all and ended up in the back of the Ballinameela net to give them the cushion that set them up for victory. Richie Foley had 3 points for Ballinacourty in the first half from his wing back position with

M. Fives, C. Moloney and C. Prunty getting the remaining scores in the first half for Ballinacourty. Ballinameela had points from Tomas Curran, Robert Shine and a brace from Brendan Phelan. Tomas Curran had Ballinameela's sole score of the second half as conditions and playing against the breeze took its toll. Ballinacourty had a goal from M. Ferncombe and further points from M. Fives (2), Conor Prunty, M. Coleman and another minor from Richie Foley who ended the game with 4 points. A deserved win by Ballinacourty but conditions did nothing to help the game. Ballinacourty: S. Enright, C. McCarthy, E. Bergin, G. Breen, D. Collins, P. Lynch, R. Foley, C. Prunty, J. O'Mahoney, M. Maher, M. Fives, C. Moloney, M. Coleman, S. O'Donovan, L. Hurney. Subs. K. Dwane, C. Dwyer, M. Ferncombe, P. Collins. Ballinameela: P. Curran, C. Culloo, C. Walsh, K. Looby, J. McGrath, K. Phelan, M. Shine, T. Curran, L. Looby, S. Flavin, E. Walsh, M. Phelan, R. Shine, B. Phelan, M. Culloo.

Cappoquin V St. Anne’s Gaultier V An Rinn. INTERMEDIATE LEAGUE Dungarvan V De La Salle, Ferrybank V Butlerstown. JUNIOR LEAGUE Portlaw V Clonea Tallow V Tramore. CLUB OF THE YEAR Congratulations to De La Salle Camogie Club who were awarded club of the year at last Tuesday’s County Board meeting. De La Salle first set up in 2009 and participate all age groups in camogie. De La Salle have won at every age group at A level and competed at Adult level last year for the first time and beat Ferrybank comprehensively in their respective final.

County Junior Football Senior Attached Championship THIS championship got underway last weekend with Kilrossanty getting the better of St. Saviours away from home by 2-10 to 2-4. There is a full programme of games scheduled for this Friday April 8th as follows: 08/04/2016 19:00 An Rinn vs Rathgormack at Páirc Uí Shíothcháin 19:00 Ballinameela vs Clashmore Kinsalebeg in Ballinameela 19:00 Brickey Rangers vs St Saviour's at Brickey Rangers 19:00 Stradbally vs Gaultier at Stradbally.

De La Salle goalkeeper Brianna O’Regan.

A New Maurice Fitzgerald DAVID Clifford scored 2-5 to help St. Brendan’s, Killarney, end their 24-year wait for a Hogan Cup title with his second goal a majestic strike off his left foot. It was quite a football announcement made on the national stage at Croke Park on Saturday by 16 yearold David Clifford from the Fossa club. A key member of the St. Brendan’s team throughout their march to Saturday’s final, Clifford exploded on the biggest stage and deservedly captured the man-of-the-match award. St. Brendan’s boss Gary McGrath has watched Clifford’s progress and his skill level prompted him to draw comparisons with a Kingdom legend. “David is 16. He is a phenomenal talent. David Clifford reminds me every day at training of no one else but Maurice Fitzgerald. I can see it in him. I will be killed for saying it. “That is who he reminds me of. I have said it to people on the quiet. He is a big talent. If he is nurtured and looked after, he has a big career in front of him.” Clifford got plenty support from Spa player Dara Moynihan who fired 0-4 in attack for St. Brendan’s. “He (David Clifford) and Dara Moynihan are doing their Leaving Cert and so even though they will be underage for next year, they won’t be around. “They were the two key forwards. Dara’s work-rate was phenomenal. The two of them have a very bright future.”

GAA

66 Main Street, Dungarvan (058) 45590 nicky@mckennacomputers.com

McKenna Computers Club Focus

FROM THE FILES OF THE DUNGARVAN OBSERVER Saturday, 25th May, 1996 LADIES FOOTBALL U-16C COUNTY FINAL

Saints hang on for title St. Olivers 1-4; Kilmacthomas 1-3. BUSHY Park last Sunday night was the venue for the u-16 ‘C’ County final between the two teams who had already met in the semi-final. Kilmacthomas, beaten by St. Olivers in the semi, qualified for the ultimate match by beating the other team in the championship, Ballyduff, in the second semi-final. St. Olivers had the best of the early play, with the first change falling for Triona Tobin after twenty seconds, but her effort went wide. The next opportunity arrived a minute later, when Lisa Corkery walloped a strike off the post. Following a good clearance when Helen Cliffe and Jennifer Landers combined well to thwart Kilmac, Jennifer pointed St. Olivers into the lead with a close range free when Anita Walsh was fouled. Both sides came close on their next attack, with Triona Tobin shooting just wide, and Anita Walsh firing across and agonisingly wide after capitalising on a poor kick-out. But the Saints eventually found the net on 13 minutes. Ellen Schliebitz had a superb effort stopped on the line and with the square swamped with players, Jennifer Landers thumped a looping shot direct to the back of the net for a great goal. Ruth Wilkinson then blasted just wide the next time the ball went towards the Kilmac’ danger zone. From the kick-out Ellen Schliebitz got possession and pointed. The remainder of the chances belonged to the Sky Blues for the rest of the half, most of which were dealt with. Helen Cliffe, Linda Schliebitz and goalkeeper Bridget Murray all produced excellent clearances to deny Kilmac. St.. Olivers led at half-time by 1-2 to 0-1. The second half must have resulted in fingernails chewed down to nothing – the result was always very much in the balance. Kilmacthomas opened the second half scoring with a converted free, with the

white and reds responding in fashion. Caitriona Power was fouled, her swiftlytaken free kick located Diane Pratt who annexed the posts for a point. But the match was turned on its head when Kilmacthomas found the net. It needed stern defending from there for St. Olivers to stay in front, which Emma Donovan showed by denying Kilmac superbly immediately after the goal. Triona Tobin pointed to double the lead midway through the half, to make the score 1-4 to 1-2. An excellent palmed save off the bar by goalkeeper Bridget Murray kept the score as it was. But within a minute the ball was in the net via the fist of a Kilmac forward. The lead was theirs, but not for long as the goal was disallowed for a square ball, though at the time it seemed to most as if the goal had actually been given. As it turned out, it hadn’t, this added to the unbearable drama of the occasion, as Kilmac added on a point, and then with exactly a minute remaining, they were awarded a penalty kick. The kick itself was hit well, but tragically for Kilmacthomas, it went a foot wide. It was their final chance. The final score of St. Olivers 1-4; Kilmacthomas 1-3 gave the Saints their third county title in ten months. The performance that won St. Olivers u-16 ‘C’ title was marked by some fine displays, with Lorraine Hickey, Jennifer Landers, Helen Cliffe, Anita Walsh, and Bridget Murray on top form. Overall, the Saints did enough to win and the presentation of the winners medals by County Chairman Michael Ryan to the St. Olivers captain Jennifer Landers was met with great jubilation. Heart-stopping stuff it truly was. St. Olivers: Bridget Murray; Emma Donovan, Karen Landers, Helen Cliffe; Marie O’Donovan, Linda Schliebitz, Jennifer Landers (1-1); Dorieann Corr, Diane Pratt (0-1); Ellen Schliebitz (0-1), Triona Tobin (0-1), Lorraine Hickey; Anita Walsh, Ruth Wilkinson, Lisa Corkery. Subs: Caitriona Power for L. Corkery; Lisa Corkery for R. Wilkinson. Subs not used: Lorraine Kennifick, Catherine Osborne, Clodagh Corr, Caroline O’Brien, Catherine Aherne, Patricia Fitzgerald, Elaine Walsh. Selectors: Paddy Tobin (trainer), William Downing, Michael O’Brien. Referee: Declan Whelan (St. Garvan’s).

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

Park Hotel February Sports Star Award – Hayley Fitzsimons of Ferrybank AC is The Park Hotel Sports Star Award winner for February. Competing at the National Indoor Paralympic Championships in Athlone, Hayley broke her own National Record in the F40 Shot Putt with a throw of 5.22m which took the National title and in the process achieved the A standard qualification for the Paralympic Games in Rio in September. Hayley will compete at the World Junior Games and the European Senior Games in June before finding out if she has been picked on the Irish team for the Paralympics in Rio. Hayley was presented with here award by Declan Moriarty, General Manager, Park Hotel, and by adjudicators John O'Connor and Ger Lawton. She was joined at the presentation by her parents John and Mary, coach Tom Prendergast and supporters Sean and Sinead. Photograph shows Declan Moriarty, General Manager, Park Hotel, presenting the February Sports Star Award to Hayley Fitzsimons. Included are Tom Prendergast, Coach; Sean Walsh and adjudicators John O'Connor and Ger Lawton. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

Waterford GAA Results & Fixtures Waterford - Results Update JJ Kavanagh & Sons Co. Junior Football Senior Attached Championship Kilrossanty 2-10; St Saviours 2-4. Senior Football League - Phelan Cup - Group A Ardmore 0-8; An Rinn 0-5. Senior Football League - Phelan Cup - Group B Ballinacourty 1-11; Ballinameela 0-5. Rathgormack 4-9; Gaultier 0-5. Senior Hurling League - Sargent Cup - Group A Ballyduff Upper 2-12; Tallow 0-13. Tony Kirwan Plant Hire Eastern Football League Group B Newtown W/O St Molleran's U-16 F Division 1 Ballinacourty 3-11; An Ghaeltacht 0-5. An Ghaeltacht 3-11; Gaultier 1-7. County U-16 F Division 2 Rathgormack 4-10; St. Patrick's 1-5. Brickey Rangers 4-10; Kilrossanty 1-6. Rathgormack 2-7; St. Mary's Juvenile 2-7. St. Patrick's 3-9; Stradbally 1-4. St. Oliver's W/O Clan na Gael. East U-14 F Division 2 Billy Murphy Butchers/Byrnes Centra Ferrybank W/O Roanmore Albert McGrath The Albert McGrath Newsagents Western U-21 B Football Championship Knock-out An Ghaeltacht 2-17; Comeragh Gaels 3-10.

Teams of Times Gone By FOURMILEWATER SENIOR HURLING TEAM Competition : County senior hurling championship Round 1. Year: 1996. Date: Sunday, May 7th. Opposition: Passage. Half-Time Score: Passage 0-10; Fourmilewater 1-3. Full Time Score: Passage 0-14; Fourmilewater 1-6. Referee: John Michael Kelly (Shamrocks). E. Wall J. Moore, T. Walsh, I. Walsh E. Sullivan, R. Guiry, M. Connolly P. Walshe (s), K. Mulcahy D. Ryan, S. Cuddy, G. Walsh P. Halpin, P. Walsh (b), T. Condon Subs: A. Walsh for T. Condon, R. Ryan for P. Walsh (b). Scorers: P. Halpin 1-0, G. Walsh 0-4, M. Connolly and K. Mulcahy 0-1 each.

Forde’s

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Youghal Road, Dungarvan, Co Waterford. 087 2674890 Dungarvanstatoil@cablesurf.com

FORDE’S DAYBREAK FORECAST CORNER LAST Week’s Forecasts: 12 Forecasts. 6 Correct. 6 Incorrect. Success Rate : 50 %. This Week’s Forecasts: County SFC: Stradbally v (Ballinameela), Rathgormack v (Brickeys), Kilrossanty v (Clashmore / Kinsalebeg), Ballinacourty v (St. Saviours), Gaultier v (An Rinn), Nire v (Ardmore). County JFSA: Rathgormack v (An Rinn), Clashmore/ Kinsalebeg v (Ballinameela), Brickeys v (St. Saviours), Stradbally v (Gaultier). West IFC: Ballinacourty v (Nire), Ballyduff v (Modeligo), Geraldines v (Dungarvan). West JPFC: Affane v (Lismore), Tallow v (Shamrocks), Sean Phobail v (Ballinacourty), Sliabh gCua v (Emmetts). West JFIA: Ballysaggart v (Geraldines), Kilgobinet v (Melleray). To Date: 101 Forecasts. 65 Correct. 36 Incorrect. Success Rate: 64.4%.

Congratulations extended to Carrick-on-Suir school on winning All-Ireland football By Paul Mooney A VOTE of congratulations was extended from Comeragh District Council to Scoil Mhuire, Greenhill, Carrick-on-Suir, for their recent success in ladies football. Cllr. Seanie Power proposed the vote of congratulations at the March meeting of Comeragh District Council. Scoil Mhuire, Carrick-on-Suir won the All-Ireland Senior A Football Championship recently, beating Colaiste Iosagain of Stillorgan, Dublin. Cllr. Power pointed out that some members of the school team are also members of the Comeragh Rangers Football Team.

Western U-21 A Football Championship Knock-out The Nire 3-12; Stradbally 2-7. Tony Kirwan Tony Kirwan Plant Hire Under 21 B Football De La Salle 2-8; Roanmore 1-3. WESTERN FIXTURES Friday 8th April Intermediate Football Ballinacourty V Nire at Fraher Field 8 pm Junior Football Premier Lismore V Affane at Ballyduff 7.30 pm Saturday 9th April Intermediate Football Modeligo V Ballyduff at Lismore 7 pm Intermediate Football Dungarvan V Geraldines at Bushy Park 7 pm Junior Football Premier Tallow V Shamrocks at Lismore 5.30 pm Sunday, 10th April Junior Football Premier Sliabh gCua V Emmetts at Fraher Field 3 pm Junior Football Premier An Sean Phobal V Ballinacourty at Fraher Field 1.30 pm Junior Football Intermediate Attached Melleray V Kilgobinet at Melleray 12 noon Junior Football Intermediate Attached Geraldines V Ballysaggart at Aglish 12 noon

Allianz National League Semi-Finals and Finals CROKE Park and Semple Stadium have been named as the venues for the respective Allianz League Division 1 semi-finals in football and hurling. First up at GAA HQ on Sunday next is the football meeting of Kerry and Roscommon at 2 pm. That will be followed by the clash of Dublin and Donegal at 4 pm. On Sunday week, 17th April, Waterford and Limerick get proceedings underway at Thurles at 2 pm, with Kilkenny taking on Clare at 4 pm. The Allianz Hurling League Division 1B promotion/relegation play-off between Laois and Westmeath has been fixed for Saturday next at O’Connor Park in Tullamore. Throw-in is at 3.30 pm. FIXTURES SATURDAY, 9th APRIL Allianz HL Division 1B relegation/promotion play-off 1530 Laois v Westmeath, O'Connor Park Allianz HL Division 2B relegation/promotion play-off 1700 Donegal v Roscommon, TBC Allianz HL Division 3A relegation/promotion play-off 1530 Tyrone v Fermanagh, Ballyshannon SUNDAY, 10th APRIL Allianz FL Division 1 semi-finals 1400 Kerry v Roscommon, Croke Park 1600 Dublin v Donegal, Croke Park SUNDAY, 17th APRIL Allianz HL Division 1 semi-finals 1400 Waterford v Limerick, Semple Stadium 1600 Kilkenny v Clare, Semple Stadium

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Waterford Camogie Board Easter Camp at Abbeyside GAA Club The Waterford Camogie Board in keeping with their development plan for the county held a Easter Camp for camogie players from all over the county last week at the Abbeyside GAA Club Ground. It was a huge success with over 50 players from all the camogie clubs in Waterford attending. Members of the Waterford Senior Camogie team took many of the drills and training sessions with everyone present delighted that they could meet these All-Ireland winning stars.They posed with the AllIreland Cup and National League trophies at the end and then spent nearly half an hour signing hurleys, helmets and jersies for all the participants of the camp. Well done to Waterford Senior Camogie team members, Tracey Kiely, Fiona Morrissey, Niamh Rockett, Lorraine Bray and Aisling Power.

Joe Cleary, Chairman Camogie Finance committee, Waterford Senior Camogie players, Tracey Kiely, Fiona Morrissey, Niamh Rockett, Lorraine Bray and Aisling Power are pictured with the All-Ireland and National League trophies and the huge crowd who attended the Waterford Camogie Board Easter Camp in the Abbeyside GAA Grounds last week. [Noel Browne]

Caoimhe Earley, Hannah Walsh, Eva Morrissey, Helen Burns and Joe Cleary, Waterford Camogie Finance Chairman are pictured with the All-Ireland and National League trophies. [Noel Browne]

Lauren Maher, Laura Morrissey, AdhmhĂn Riordan, Kaia McGovern and Joe Cleary, Waterford Camogie Finance Chairman are pictured with the All-Ireland and National League trophies. Action from the day.

[Noel Browne]

GAA

Nire/Fourmilewater COUNTY SENIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP Next weekend sees the start of the Senior Football Championship. The Nire start their quest for an eighth Conway cup with a fixture this Sunday against Ardmore. The match throws-in at 6 pm in the Fraher Field. We would hope that as many of our loyal supporters can come to the game and support the team. We would like to wish the management team of Benji Whelan, selectors Ger Peters, Paudie Halpin and Ger Walsh. Team Secretary Jim Fenton and Physio Declan Spelman the best of luck for the coming year. WESTERN INTERMEDIATE FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP Next Friday at 8pm in the Fraher Field our Intermediate Footballers take on Ballinacourty in the first round of the Western Intermediate Football championship. Best of luck to manager Ger Peters and the player for the coming year. THE CUBE MAY 14th The Cube is one of the most popular and entertaining game shows shown on TV and now it is coming to Ballymacarbry Community Centre!!! Could a member of your club defeat the Cube and win €1,000 for your club or organisation? Can you defeat the Cube yourself? Nire/ Fourmilewater GAA club are holding this fundraiser for the development of our field and dressing rooms, which are currently under construction. This fundraiser is a joint venture with Ballymacarbry Ladies Football and will take place on the 14th May 2016 in Ballymacarbry Community Centre. We are looking for 32 competitors to enter the Cube and compete for prize money of €1,000. It will be €200 to enter the Cube and the competitors will compete in semifinals before a final will take place between the best competitors and they will have the chance to win €1,000!! Who can enter?? Absolutely anyone!! We welcome any club, charity or individuals who wish to nominate themselves, a club member or someone else to compete for the prize money on the night! Wouldn't it be nice to win €1,000 for your club??? Or you could even win €1,000 for yourself!! All you have to do is defeat the Cube! This event is open to all ages and there will be refreshments, a raffle and further activities on the night. Tickets will cost €10 for entry. If you are interested in participating or securing tickets, please contact any member of The Nire, Fourmilewater or Ballymac Ladies MEMBERSHIP Membership is a huge source of finance for every club. On the registration night we will be offering a number of options of paying your annual membership. WATERFORD SENIOR HURLERS Congratulations to Jamie Barron, Conor Gleeson and the Waterford hurlers on defeating Wexford in the National Hurling League quarterfinal last Sunday. 2015 COUNTY U-21B COUNTY HURLING FINAL The county U-21B Hurling final v Portlaw has been fixed for Sunday, May 1st at 1 pm in Walsh Park. However, if Waterford reach the National Hurling League final, this game will be rescheduled. 45 CARD RESULTS Joint Winners: Eileen Ryan and Jim Phelan; Richard Harte and Michael Power. Lucky Tables: John Donovan and Tony Doocey; Maurice Prendergast and Oliver O’Hara. FOURMILEWATER WEEKLY LOTTO RESULT No winner. 5 x €30 winners: Joan O’Donnell, Ian Gillman, Maurice O’Gorman, Martin Wall, Pat,Tommy and Patricia, c/o Doocey’s. Numbers drawn 1, 12, 17. Next week’s Jackpot €1,500. NIRE WEEKLY LOTTO RESULTS Winning numbers were 9, 10 and 29. No winner. 2 x €50 winners for 2 numbers: Kathleen Sheehan, Ballybrien; Anthony Sheehan, Kikenny, Nire Valley. CHAMPIONSHIP DRAWS 2016 JJ KAVANAGH SENIOR CHAMPIONSHIP SENIOR FOOTBALL DRAW 2016 The Nire, Ballinacourty, Gaultier, Ardmore, St. Saviours, An Rinn. SENIOR HURLING DRAW 2016 Fourmilewater, Tallow, Mount Sion, Roanmore, Abbeyside, Cappoquin. WESTERN U-21B HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP QUARTER-FINAL DRAW An Gaeltacht v FMW Semi-final Draw An Gaeltacht/FMW v Ardmore/Cloch Na Cuinne WESTERN JUNIOR A HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP Two Groups of 5 Group One: Kilgobinet, Fourmilewater, Tourin, Geraldine's and Abbeyside DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Friday, April 29th v Abbeyside in Colligan at 7:30 pm

Saturday, 14th May v Tourin in Colligan at 7:30 pm. WESTERN INTERMEDIATE FOOTBALL Round 1: Dungarvan v Nire Round 2: Nire v Modeligo Round 3 : Nire v Geraldines Round 4: Ballyduff Upper v Nire Round 5 : Nire v Ballinacourty Friday, April 8th in Fraher Field. One group of 6. League format, Top 4 to semifinals (1 v 4 & 2 v 3). BALLYMACARBRY LADIES Thanks to all the people who gave there old clothes etc last week to the Ballymacarbry Ladies football team fundraiser. Much appreciated. Thanks to all that turned up to our presentation night of medals for all teams. Brilliant night. NIRE/FOURMILEWATER JUVENILES FEILE NA GAEL This year's Feile Na Gael is being held in Waterford/ Tipperary. The Feile will be launched here in Ballymacarbry in April and we will also be hosting a team. Our excellent U-14 hurling team will be proudly representing our parish and the Millfield will be a hive of activity in June. RAFFLE: Currently we are selling lines for a raffle for a signed Waterford jersey to raise funds for our juvenile club. This fundraiser is to assist with our Feile squad who will compete in this year’s Feile na nGael. All your help is appreciated. FEILE NA GAEL DRAW The draw for the Feile took place last week in Clonmel. Fourmilewater have been drawn in division two with St. Mary's of Clonmel along with the Offaly and Westmeath champions. Fourmilewater are delighted to host the Offaly champions. MEMBERSHIP: Please note that you can avail of free membership by signing up to the Club's Direct Debit scheme, which at the same time, be supporting the club's main fundraisers i.e. Weekly lotto and Deise Draw, all for as little as €4.25 per week. If you would like more information of if you have any queries in relation to the above, please do not hesitate to contact Ger Walsh at 087 6713642 or Deirdre O'Meara at 087 0689929 Thanks also to Eoin Wall whose hurling coaching will continue in school after Easter. REMINDER We would ask all parents to respond to texts received from club mentors when asked if your child will or will not be attending games training etc. TRAINING U-13 Our U-13 train every Tuesday at 7 pm in the Milfield €1. U-11/12 Our U-11/12 training continues every Monday between 6-7 pm €1. Our U010/11's training continues every Thursday between 5/6 pm in Community Centre. U-8/U-9 Our U8/9's training continues on Friday between 6 pm and 7 pm in the Community Centre. CLUB NOTES If you would like anything included in the Club notes, Facebook or Twitter updates, please contact Muiris Walsh at 0868159136 or at baronpark20@gmail.com

Abbeyside/Ballinacourty JACK THE JOKER Our ever popular Jack the Joker fundraiser continues this Sunday night in Alice O’Connor’s where the jackpot is €4,000 as on Sunday night last Colm Nagle was drawn out of the drum and chose card number 33, which when turned was not the Joker though he did win €50. Dennis Cosgrave and The Breen Family won €25 each. As well as our group of ticket sellers tickets can be purchased from Convenience Store Ballinroad, Village Flowers, Spar, Mousies Takeaway, Minnies Bar, Abbeyside Post Office and Crotty’s Corner Bar. SENIOR FOOTBALL On Saturday evening last our Senior Footballers kept their unbeaten record in the Phelan Cup alive with a good win over Ballinameela in Abbeyside. This Sunday we get our Championship campaign underway against St. Saviours in Kill at 2.00 p.m. INTERMEDIATE FOOTBALL This Friday night we play The Nire in Fraher Field at 8.00 p.m. in the first round of the Western Championship. BOOKING OF PITCHES As teams start back training over the next few weeks we remind all team managers that they must book the pitches/astro turf with Michael Donovan prior to training and also managers are asked to remember that the main pitch remains closed until further notice. CLUB BINGO Our club bingo will continue this Sunday night in the CBS Hall with a jackpot of €1,250. JUVENILE NOTES Underage Hurling NB – Our underage hurling sessions on Saturday morning for under 6 to under 10 has been brought forward this week (Saturday, April 9th only) and will begin at 10.00

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Ballymacarbry beaten by Garranbane in the Western Allianz Cumann na mBunscol Mini 7s Boys Hurling final played in Abbeyside's GAA Grounds. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport] a.m. and will finish and 11.00 a.m. due to camogie activities taking place in the club grounds from mid-day. We apologise if this causes any inconvenience. Training times will then go back to normal the following week. Membership – We would ask all parents and mentors could they please return their membership forms to Suzanne Gough as soon as possible for insurance reasons. Under 11 – Bank Holiday Monday we travelled down to Mount Sion for our first outing of the year. This was a good run out for the boys but had to give way to a strong Mount Sion team. Friday (April 1st) we were due to go to Lismore but like the first day we tried to play Mount Sion the rain put an end to this with the pitch unplayable. This Friday we will train at 5:30 till 6:30 p.m. Please note change of time for this week. April 15th we play neighbours Dungarvan in the first round of the Town & Country league in Abbeyside at 6:30 p.m. Under 10 and 13 – Our under 10 football team travelled to the Nire on the bank holiday Monday just gone and enjoyed their day out. This busy group of players were also due to play Ring on Monday just gone and hopefully they will have played as well as they did in Ballymacarbry the week before. Also the under13 football team are due to play the next round of their championship against Cois Brid this week. Under 8 – Unfortunately, our under eight team once again fell foul to the poor weather on Saturday morning last when their blitz got postponed for the second week in a row. At the time of writing another date for this blitz to go ahead in Carriganore has not been pencilled in but will be included here in these notes once a date of the re fixture has been announced. This group will train this week at the slightly earlier time of 10.00 a.m. till 11.00 a.m. Kelloggs cul camp – Our camp for the Kellogg’s Cul camp this year is from the 4th to the 8th July. This is always a great camp and we always have big numbers attending. To book your place on this camp you can do so online on www.kelloggsculcamps.gaa.ie Under 14 – Our under14 football team were due to play Dungarvan on Sunday morning last but due to the weather this game had to be postponed. This game has now been changed to Friday night next. Under 16 – Our under16 football team played against An Rinn on The Bank Holiday Monday last. After a good display throughout our boys came away with a 3-11 to 0-5 win. They were also due to play De La Salle on Wednesday night last but this game was called off due to the bad weather and a date of the re fixture is not available at this time. The next game for this group is pencilled in for April the 18th against Gaultier in Abbeyside. Child Welfare officer – Bríd Slevin is our Child Welfare Officer. If you wish to contact Bríd regarding any matter, please pass your number onto our juvenile secretary, Audrey Hallahan (0876987388) and she will forward on to Bríd. We are delighted to welcome Bríd on board and know that she will execute her duties in a professional, confidential caring and efficient manner. Camogie – Training will resume on Friday, 8th April, from 6.00 to 7.00 p.m. for U-6, U-8, U-10 & U-12 registration will also take place on the same evening €20 for the year family discount will

apply. Helmets & hurleys can be bought through the club at a discounted price. We host our 1st blitz on Saturday 9th for U8/U-10 commencing at 12.00 noon. Saturday 16th our U-12s travel to Bushy Park for their first blitz of 2016. At time of going to press our U16 girls will have played their first championship game against Butlerstown, we wish Ritchie, Pat and the girls all the best for the season. There will be a committee meeting on this Thursday, 7th in the clubhouse at 8.00; all committee members are requested to attend. On behalf of all associated with the club we wish to express our sincere condolences to the family of Niall McKeown who died recently, Niall’s three daughters Kate, Ciara and Aisling, are valued club members.

Dungarvan NEW JERSEY PROJECT Fundraiser co-ordinator Mike Barry informs us that the raffle among local businesses for the name to feature on our senior hurling jerseys for 2016 will take place next week. There has been a huge response to this project to date and our sincere thanks are extended to every business that has entered thus far. The local chamber of commerce will conduct the draw and all contestants will feature in our grounds as club sponsors. Thanks to our members who called to the local businesses over the past few weeks. INTERMEDIATE FOOTBALL Our Intermediate footballers play Geraldines in Bushy Park this Saturday, April 9th, at 7.00 p.m. in our first Group game in the Western championship. FEILE NEWS Our Divisions and Groups for Feile na nGael 2016 were announced last week. Hurling: Division 3 Group A : Dungarvan host winners of Wexford B and Mount Sion host winners of Cork B. Camogie: Division 4 Group A : Dungarvan host Cavan and Abbeyside host Mayo. Feile taking place in Waterford/Tipperary on the weekend of 17th to 19th June. INTER COUNTY FOOTBALL Well done to club player Gavin Crotty and the Waterford team that defeated Leitrim at the Fraher Field last Saturday afternoon. This was a well deserved win for the team and their management after their efforts throughout the league. INTER COUNTY HURLING Well done to club player Patrick Curran and the Waterford team who defeated Wexford in the Allianz NHL quarter final in Wexford last Sunday. They now face Limerick in the semi final in Thurles ay 2.00 p.m. on Sunday week, April 14th. INTER COUNTY MINOR HURLING Good luck to club players Glen Waters and Jack Lacey, who are on the Waterford minor hurling panel that plays Cork in the first round of the Munster championship in Walsh Park this Wednesday evening, April 6th, at 6.30 p.m. MINOR FOOTBALL Our minor football championship game against Rathgormack was postponed last Sunday. Our next game is home to De La Salle on Sunday week, April 17th, at 11.30 a.m. UNDER 16 FOOTBALL Our under 16 football championship game against St. Olivers was postponed last Monday

evening due to our Grounds being unplayable. It is refixed for this Monday evening, 17th April, at 6.30 a.m. UNDER 14 FOOTBALL Our postponed under 14 football championship game against Ballinacourty will now be played this Friday evening, April 8th, in our own field at 6.30 p.m. UNDER 12 HURLING We play St. Carthages in the first round of the Town and Country under 12 hurling in our own grounds this Monday, April 11th, at 6.30 p.m. LOTTO This week's numbers are 7, 11, 17 and 29. There was no winner. The Jackpot next week will be worth €4,300. There were five winners of the Match 3 prize: Breda Veale (Silversprings), Martin Lynch, Jim Mullins, Mattie Tobin and Bill Grant. Each winner gets €40. Next week's match 3 prize will be €100. Thanks to everybody who buys and who sells the Lotto. Remember, you can do the lotto on your phone now, which is proving very popular at the moment. Lotto tickets can be purchased in the Country Store, Hallahan’s Chemist, Quealy’s Bar, John Walsh Spar, Paddy Foley’s Bar, Johnny Lynch Fruit and Veg and Graham Nagle’s Golf Shop. FLAG DAYS Our annual adult club flag day fundraiser takes place on the weekend of April 23rd/24th. SYMPATHY The Club extends its sincere sympathy to Mrs. Lily Goode, Dublin, on the death of her husband Paul Goode and to their children Aileen and Declan. Sympathy also to Paul’s sister Phil and his brother Billy in Church Street who is a vice president of the club. The Goode family have a long association with our club and with GAA affairs in general in Waterford back as far as the early years of the last century. TRAINING FOR THIS WEEK Training for u-8s-12s Friday from 6-7 Training for u-13/14 Thursday from 6.30-7.30 Training for our minor/adult Thursdays from 7.00-8.00 All players are welcome to attend old and new. ADULT TEAM Our Adult played St. Anne's last week in their first game of the 11-aside championship. The girls came out with a great win with some great performances overall. The team lined out as follows: Richael Hayes, Dawn Power, Ciara Hurley, Rachael Wyley, Emma Gildea, Katie Hayes, Aoife Nagle, Shauna Coakley, Lauren McGregor, Lucy O’Shea, Katie Ferncombe, Cheyenne Tobin, Anne Marie Tutty.

PLAYER OF THE WEEK Our player of the week for this week is Meadbh Byrne. Meadbh is one of our newest players and is a well deserved winner of the award and shows everybody what hard work can do. Well done Meadbh keep up the good work. GAELIC4GIRLS Training starts this Friday from 6.30-7.30 all new faces are welcome as this is a very good way to be introduced to Gaelic football, meet new friends and most importantly have fun. Contact Aisling on 0872620287 for more information.

GAA CLUB NOTES

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Stradbally STRADBALLY GAA PARISH WINTER LEAGUE Results – Points total after round 4: Kerry 24, Meath 19, Roscommon 21, Down 19, Waterford 19, Cork 25. Winter league on Friday this week – Round 5 on Friday 1/4/2016 at 6.30 p.m.: Kerry v. Roscommon; Meath v. Down; Waterford v. Cork. FIXTURES Junior Football: Junior Footballers playing this Friday evening against Gaultier. This match is in Stradbally at 7.00 p.m. Best of luck to everyone. Senior League: Senior Footballers playing this Saturday evening against Ballinameela. This match takes place in Fraher Field at 6.30. Best of luck to everyone. Bag Pack: Well done to Theresa Keane for organising bag pack in Supervalu, Dungarvan last week. A big thank you to the people who helped out over the three days. Thanks also to Supervalu for allowing us hold the bag pack. Sum raised was €1,658. Well done everyone who supported this and everyone who gave their time for their club. 50/50 Draw: 50/50 Draw on this Sunday night. We all know how important this draw is for pitch development so please support. Thank you all. You never know, you might be lucky like Kathleen Coffey who won €330 in last draw.

Tulach an Iarainn SPONSORED BY McGRATH'S CHEMIST, TALLOW TALLOW GAA LOTTO – SUPPORTED BY KEARNEY'S RESTAURANT, TALLOW 4/4/’16 – Numbers drawn were: 6, 12, 15, 25. No winner. Consolation prizes: Terence McSweeney, Liam Moroney, Brody O’Donnell, Theresa McSweeney. Promoter: Mary Beecher. Next draw: Corner House, April 11th. Jackpot €5,600. 29/3/’16 - Last week's lotto: Numbers drawn were: 5, 21, 23, 25. No winner. Consolation prizes: Margaret Nugent, Frances Tobin, Mary Hogan, Kilbeg; Mike Lambard. Promoter: Mairead Sheehan. Next draw: Lukie’s, April 4th. Jackpot €5,400. 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. SARGENT CUP We played this fixture against Ballyduff on Thursday last. The game ended on a scoreline of 2-12 to 0-13 in favour of Ballyduff. Our next game is against Fourmilewater in this League. WEDDING BELLS Huge congrats to Evan and Billie Jean who were married last weekend. We wish you both a lifetime of happiness together. CONGRATULATIONS Major congrats to Ciara Mulcahy and Tommy Johnson who recently got engaged. LEAGUE SEMI-FINAL Waterford hurlers will play the first game in a double header in Thurles on Sunday week when they take on Limerick in the Allianz National League semi-final. They defeated Wexford on Sunday last by a single point at Wexford Park. This match will take place on Sunday, 17th April, at 2.00 p.m. MONTHLY MEETING CLG Tulach an Iarainn will hold our monthly meeting this Thursday, April 7th, at 9.00 p.m. at the clubhouse. All members are requested to attend. LAST MAN STANDING We're back after the International Break and for five of our competitors it was only a stay of execution. The five unlucky competitors were as follows: Brendan Keohane - Stoke; Nora O'Sullivan - Liverpool (bad advice from Rob); Michael Delaney - West Ham. The fan's favourite was the last of our competitors who used the buy back opportunity after week 1; Wesley Connolly Tong - West Ham; Turlough Duggan - West Ham; Aidan Ryan - Stoke. So that leaves us with 8: Liam Moroney, Michael O'Halloran, Ian Mackintosh, Eamonn Tobin, Ann Daly, David McGovern, Darah Buckley. Teams to be in Saturday 9th by 11.45 a.m. Best of luck.

SliabhgCua/St. gCua/St. Mary's Marys Sliabh JUNIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP COMMENCES THIS SUNDAY This Sunday sees Sliabh gCua open their football championship campaign when they face Colligan. Some epic games have been the outcome of previous encounters between the neighbouring sides, no doubt that another one is in store this weekend. The official fixture is set for Sunday, 10th April: Sliabh gCua v. Emmetts at Fraher Field at 3.00 p.m. We wish the team and management the very best of luck in the tie. WATERFORD SENIOR HURLERS Waterford supporters’ nerves were shattered

in Wexford Park on Sunday as The Déise fought hard to dig out a single point victory over Wexford. The magnificent Maurice Shanahan proved why he received a 2015 All Star, ending the clash scoring 12 points with a phenomenal performance. As Waterford remain on course to claim backto-back League titles, Limerick now provide opponents on April 17th (2.00 p.m.) in the semifinal clash after a good win over Dublin. The second semi will be fought out between Clare and Kilkenny (4.00 p.m.) after wins over Tipperary and Offaly respectively. WATERFORD SENIOR FOOTBALLERS Waterford’s National League campaign ended with victory over Leitrim in Dungarvan on Saturday. Waterford can deem themselves very unlucky this year. From their 7 fixtures, The Déise side recorded 2 wins, defeated in 3 games by a single point, defeated in 1 fixture by a mere 2 point while suffering a heavy defeat after travelling to Belfast against Antrim. Waterford will now prepare for their Munster championship clash against Tipperary on May 29th. MICHAEL RYAN – WESTMEATH Kerry secured their Allianz NHL Division 1B status with a commanding 11 point win over Laois in Tralee on Saturday evening, leaving the O’Moore County in a relegation/promotion play off clash with Michael Ryan’s Westmeath side this weekend. The Sliabh gCua/St. Mary’s club wish Michael and Co. the very best of luck in their promotion fixture. The teams will meet in O’Connor Park in Tullamore this Saturday, April 9th. SLIABH gCUA LOTTO WEEKENDING 3rd APRIL Winning numbers were: 4, 10, 19. No winner. New jackpot €2400. 5 x €20 winners: Eileen Hennebry, Jim Cliffe, Conor O’Mahoney, Monica Cullinan, Mick O’Mahoney. Promoters prize €20: Pat Dalton. Next draw at Dunne’s on Sunday, 10th April.

Kilrossanty CLOTTO SPONSORED BY KILL AGRICULTURAL LTD. Clotto Results – No Winner of a Jackpot of €7,400. Held in Crottys Inn, Leamybrien, on Sunday night, 3/4/’16. Numbers were 02, 11, 15, 22. €30 won by the following people Oliver Sandford (Fews), Jimmy Veale (Leamybrien); seller’s prize of €30: Tom Barry (Garrahylish). Next Clotto to be held in Micilin’s Bar, Kilrossanty, on Sunday night, 10/4/’16, for a Jackpot of €7,500; on duty on the night Benny Whyte and Michael Keating. TABLE QUIZ Thank you to everyone who supported the table quiz for our Senior and Junior Teams last Friday evening, 1st April, in Crottys Inn and to the winning team of Dermot Kiley, Liam Brazil, Barry Gill and Kevin Lonergan. A total of €2,400 was raised. Thank you also to all the local businesses and to the people who gave sponsorship. JUNIOR FOOTBALL SENIOR ATTACHED CHAMPIONSHIP Our junior footballers were in action last Friday evening against St. Saviours in Ballybeg. We won on a scoreline of 2-10 to 2-04. We are away to Gaultier on Friday, 15th April. Kilrossanty team: (1) Cormac Heinen, (2) Kenny Houlihan, (3) Jimmy Maher, (4) Paul Lennon, (5) Michael Hassett, (6) Paul Hayes, (7) Michael Galvin, (8) Conor Hayes, (9) Seamus Veale, (10) Ciaran Keating, (11) Michael Walsh, (12) Emmett Dorothy, (13) Dale Power, (14) Willie Brazil, (15) David Prendergast. Subs: Dylan Hogan, Eoin Browne, Paudie Cooney, Fintan Walsh.

DEISE DRAW The Next Deise Draw will take place in Gaultier on Friday, 29th April, in Gaultier. O’NEILL’S SHOP ONLINE You can get all your official gear on our O’Neill’s shop on line. Order any of our club items. All sizes are catered for from children to adults. Items can be ordered individually and once paid will be shipped directly from O’Neill’s to their home. KILROSSANTY/BRICKEYS LADIES FOOTBALL TRAINING Unfortunately, the weather got the better of us last weekend and all training had to be cancelled. Hopefully, the weather will be kinder to us this week and we’ll be able to go ahead with training for the u-12s and u-14s on Saturday, 9th at 5 pm in Bushy Park. Hope to see everyone back, as we only have a few weeks until the u14 campaign starts. U-12 MEDAL PRESENTATION The presentation of the 2015 u-12 runner-up medals will take place in the clubhouse immediately after training at 6 pm. Our own Kate McGrath, who was a member of the Intermediate All Ireland winning panel in 2015, will present the medals to the girls. A trip to McDonalds for the girls will follow the presentation. U-10 Training for u10s will start on Monday night, April 11th, in Bushy Park at 6:30 pm. Newcomers welcome! If you have a child who is interested in starting to play ladies football please come along and let her try it out. All information will be avail-

Stradbally's Ladies winning captains in 2015 from left, Rachel McGuckian (U16 A captain), Shiona Dunphy (U13 A captain), Hayley Phelan (U12 A captain) and Maggie Boylan (U15 A captain). able on the night. U-16 Our u-16s suffered defeat in their first match of the season against a strong Erin’s Own team. Despite being short a number of players, the girls put in a very good performance and will only improve as the season goes on. Their next game versus Roanmore was due to be played on Monday night but was cancelled due to pitches being unplayable. Players will be notified of the rescheduled fixture.

Brickey Rangers LOTTO No winner of €1,150 jackpot numbers drawn: 3 - 8 - 13 -25. €25 to each of the following: Dan Kelleher, Carmel Bailey, Maureen Dalton and Anne Marie Wade. Next week’s jackpot is €1,300 draw will be held in The Tudor House. SENIOR FOOTBALL Our Phelan Cup game versus St. Saviours due to be played last Saturday was postponed due to inclement weather. We begin our Senior Football Championship this Saturday Vs Rathgormack in Fraher Field at 8.00 p.m. Please come out and support the lads. JUNIOR FOOTBALL Our Junior Football Championship gets underway this Friday versus St. Saviours in Bushy Park at 6.45. Please come out and support the lads. SYMPATHY The sympathy of the club is extended to John Joe Sheehan and family on the death of his sister Joan McMahon which occurred in Fermanagh. To Bridget Barry, and family on the death of her sister Nellie Brazil in Ballymacbry and also to the Riordan families, Ballyneety and Dungarvan, on the passing of David (Mikey). May they rest in peace. JUVENILE NOTES Training – We have a training schedule for the juvenilles, this is subject to change but for the coming weeks the following is the plan U-16 football-Wednesday at 7.15 on the pitch. U-14 and U-13 - Football and Hurling training at 6–7:30 p.m. Fridays (please bring all relevant gear). U-12 and U-11 - Hurling at 7.00 p.m. Tuesdays U-10 and U-9 - Football at 6.00 p.m. Tuesdays. U-8 Football and Hurling at10.00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. Saturdays. U-12 hurling match Friday, 7th April, at 6:30 p.m. in Ballymacarbery versus Fourmilewater. (All players will be notified by text). GARDA VETTING Please note that from on April 29th, 2016, the GAA has mandatory vetting of all persons who work with children or underage teams, i.e. teams and individuals under 18 yrs. of age, and to those who work with vulnerable adults as well. From the 12th of April, 2016, the GAA will move from a paper vetting system to an online or E-Vetting procedure for our members. Therefore, I would appreciate if any of you that have vetting forms please return them asap. DATE FOR THE DIARY By kind permission of Austin and Bridget in West Waterford Golf Club the Feile committee will host a table quiz on Friday, 22nd April. All panel members will be allocated a table, each Feile panel will receive correspondence this week. Please note that unless club membership is paid and the player is registered the GAA will not allow the child participate in the Feile compe-

tition. All names on the Feile panel for camogie and hurling have been submitted to HQ. U-8 PROFILES THIS WEEK Cormac Lynch Age: 6 School: Carriglea NS Favourite Sport: Soccer Favourite Food: Lasagne Favourite Player: Maurice Shanahan Favourite Movie: Star Wars Future career: Lego Designer Sean Hogan Age: 5 School: Carriglea NS Favourite Sport: Hurling Favourite Player: 'Brick' Walsh Favourite Movie: The lost dinosaur Favourite Book: Animals Favourite Food: Cucumber BRICKEY RANGERS CAMOGIE NOTES FÉILE – FUNDRAISING Many thanks to all who contributed in any way to our recent clothing collection which was organised as part of the fundraising effort for Féile 2016. It was a great success as was the Easter Camp. Thanks also to all who supported the camp. But as the saying goes, there’s lots done, and lots more to do. The next fundraising event in a Adults Table Quiz to be held in West Waterford Golf Club on Friday, April 22nd. Each member of the Féile panel will receive a table number and a card and will be asked to fill their table/card at a cost of €40 per table, or €10 per person. Patricipation in the Féile is a huge undertaking and we appreciate that there are many demands on people’s finances, but is a once in a lifetime opportunity for most of the children and one that we feel is well worth the effort involved. So we would ask all the parents to come on board and get behind the girls. TRAINING Don’t forget training for the u14s and upwards continues on Wednesday nights at 7 pm. Our u16s campaign begins this week when they are away to De La Salle, and the u-14 competition begins the following week.

Clais / Cionn ClaisMhór Mhór/Cionn tSáile Beag t-Sáile FOOTBALL FIXTURES Clashmore / Kinsalebeg Junior Football team will line-out against Ballinameela on Thursday next, April 7th. This match will be played in Clashmore at 8.00 p.m. Our first Senior Football championship game v. Kilrossanty takes place on Sunday, April 10th, in Fraher Field at 7.00. pm. DÉISE DRAW Thanks to all our members and supporters who purchased tickets. CLUB MEMBERS Great to see club members Brian O'Halloran and Tadhg de Búrca performing well in a tough encounter against Wexford on Sunday last. U.C.C. SPORTS AWARDS Heartiest congratulations to Tadhg De Búrca

who was the recipient of a sports award which is presented annually by U.C.C. It is a great honour for Tadhg to be chosen for such a prestigious award. CLASHMORE/KINSALEBEG JUVENILE CROKE PARK VISIT A HUGE SUCCESS The juvenile Club had a fantastic day out last Thursday in Croke Park at the Munster Coaching and Games Activity Day which saw our U12 team play three games against Moyvane from Kerry, Monaleen from Limerick and Whites Cross from Cork. The team played really well and our panel of 22 players all saw action and it's fair to say everyone loved playing on the beautiful surface! As well as the three games, the lads, mentors and parents took a stadium tour which was a great way of seeing how this huge venue is maintained and where the great players have togged out down the years. Many of our group took a tour of the museum also which really conveys the history of the venue and the importance of the GAA historically. All in all, it was an amazing day. Thank you to all our players, our fantastic mentors Mark Coughlan, John Daly and Ger Ryan, our bus driver, the parents and supporters that attended on the day; Eoin Breathnach, club member and County Games Manager and to Munster Coaching and Games for organising the day. EASTER EGG DRAW A HUGE SUCCESS Thank you to everyone who supported our Juvenile GAA Club Easter Egg Draw which was once again a massive success. Every year we see a great response to this important fundraiser and your support has a real 'knock-on effect' for our club. The following are those lucky enough to be winners in the Draw – 1st Oisín Ryan; 2nd Colm O'Sullivan; 3rd Donna Seward; 4th Catherine Cliffe; 5th Sam McCarthy; 6th Ed Beresford. Sellers Prizes went to Louis Roddy, Davan Leahy, Colm O’Sullivan, Luke O’Shea and Rory O'Brien. Well done all and thanks again!

U-16 FOOTBALL We unfortunately had to concede a championship game in this competition last Monday night versus Ferrybank as we did not have enough players to field a team which is a real pity as this team has a great chance of competing well in this competition.

An Coilligean/Na h-Emmetigh FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP COMMENCES THIS WEEKEND Championship 2016 begins this weekend, and Sunday afternoon next (that’s April 10th) sees us face near neighbours Sliabh gCua in the opening round of this year’s divisional Junior (Premier) Football Championship. Throw-in is timed for 3:00 pm with the curtain raiser being the meeting of An Sean Phobal and Ballinacourty (also in the JFC). Best of luck to the lads on Sunday. CLUB LOTTO There was no winner of the “Black & Amber” club lotto held in Quills Master McGrath Bar on Bank Holiday Monday, March 28th last. The numbers drawn were 7, 11, 15 and 22. The €20 lucky ticket winners were as follows: Eamon Wall, Eileen Keane, Paddy Fraher, and Michael Hennebry. Last Monday (04/04) night’s jackpot was worth €11,650. WATERFORD ADVANCE Well done to our own Colin Dunford, and the Waterford senior hurlers who ground out a hard fought win away to Wexford in last Sunday’s Allianz NHL Quarter-Final. Thankfully the Deise lads came through this stern examination.

GAA CLUB NOTES

Affane/Cappoquin YOUR CLUB NEEDS YOU We are looking for help every night for painting this week. Anytime after 6 pm. or Saturday from 9.30 am. Of course, this isn't going to suit everyone but if any way possible, any time at all given would be a huge bonus. A couple of hours anytime go along way. CLUB LOTTO TUESDAY, MARCH 29th No winner. Numbers drawn: 3, 19, 22, 23. Consolation winners €20: Seamus O Rodaigh, Lacken; Noel Landers, Carrigeen; James Bennett, Ballysaggart; Leo Coffey, c/o Eddie Fraher; Martin Gallagher, c/o Hilda Curran. CLUB LOTTO MONDAY, APRIL 4th Jackpot €12,100. No winner. Numbers drawn: 11, 20, 21, 28. Consolation winners €20: Eddie Fraher, Shanbally; Anthony Rooney, Carrigeen; Craig & Anthony O'Rourke, c/o Cliffes Bar; Ward Fraher, Shanbally; Christina Johnston, Barrack St. UPCOMING JUVENILE CLUB FIXTURES WEST U-13 FOOTBALL Rd 3 Mon April 11th Affane V Brickeys at 7 pm in Bushy Park Rd 4 Sun April 24th Affane V Gaeltacht at 11 am in The Sportsfield U-11 HURLING TOWN/ COUNTRY LEAGUE Rd 2 Fri April 15th Cappoquin V St. Olivers at 6.30 pm in The Sportsfield Rd 3 Fri April 29th Cappoquin V Ballyduff at 6.30 pm in Ballyduff U-12 HURLING TOWN/ COUNTRY LEAGUE Rd 1 Fri April 8th Cappoquin V St. Olivers at 6.30 pm in Ballinameela Rd 2 Fri April 22nd Cappoquin V Fourmilewater at 6.30 pm in The Sportsfield UPCOMING COUNTY SENIOR HURLING C’SHIP FIXTURES Rd1 Sun 8th May Cappoquin V Mt Sion at 2 pm in The Fraher Field, Rd 2 Sun 15th May Cappoquin V Tallow at 7 pm in Ballyduff. SARGANT CUP SHL Rd 2 April 23rd Cappoquin V Roanmore at 7.30 pm in The Sportsfield. UPCOMING WESTERN JUNIOR FOOTBALL C’SHIP FIXTURES Rd 1 this Friday, April 8th Affane V Lismore, in Ballyduff at 7.30 pm. Rd2 Sat April 16th Affane V Tallow in Ballyduff at 7 pm FEILE NA NGAEL 2016 FRIDAY, 17th JUNESUNDAY, 19th JUNE Our Groups in Hurling and Camogie for Feile na nGael 2016: Hurling - Cappoquin host Armagh club reps, Clashmore/Kinsalebeg, Monaghan club reps Camogie - Cappoquin host Carlow club reps, Moyle Rovers, San Francisco THREE TO ANSWER 1, What county has won the most National hurling league titles? 2, What club does Wexfords Lee Chin play for? 3, What was the year Cork won both the AllIreland Senior/Intermediate Hurling, Newtownshandrum won the All-Ireland club senior hurling and Waterford were Munster senior hurling champions? LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS 1, Rory Gallagher is Donegal’s senior football team manager 2, Waterford won the National Senior Hurling league in 1963, 2007 and 2015 3, Milford (Cork) are the All-Ireland club senior camogie champions. TRAINING The official training evening for our various teams are as follows: Senior, Junior, U-21'sMonday, Wednesday, Friday. Minors / U-16s - Thursday. U-14's - Wednesday.

Ardmore Ardmore SENIOR FOOTBALL LEAGUE Ardmore 0-8; Ring 0-5 Ardmore had the upper edge in this game played in our own pitch on Saturday evening last. Both teams fielded short the services of a number of key players but Ardmore will be happy with their performance in advance of championship football this coming weekend when they will play the Nire. Our best wishes go out to Cathal Curran who picked up a serious leg injury in the match and thanks must go to our own Caroline and Rings Oran Houlihan for the professional first aid treatment given to Cathal while waiting for the ambulance which late took him to CUH. CLUB MEETING Our monthly club meeting will take place this Thursday, 7th April at 7.30 p.m. ARDMORE LOTTO - MARCH 28th Winning numbers were: 2, 7, 9, 13. Runnersup: Pat O’Connor, c/o Flemings Bar; S.D.L.P., c/o Mary Prendergast; Michael Morrissey, c/o An Tobar; Oisin Langan, c/o Mary Prendergast; Gerard and Tommy, c/o Flemings Bar. LOTTO RESULTS - APRIL 4th Winning numbers were: 7, 9, 15, 16. Runnersup: Peggy Keevers, c/o Keevers; Declan

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Cunningham, c/o Kiely’s Cross; Caoimhe Rose Healy, c/o An Tobar; David Mansfield, c/o Kiely’s Cross; Pat Hennessy, c/o Quinns. Next week’s draw is for €5,700 and will take place at Keevers Bar. DEISE DRAW Deise Draw, March 2016 - Our club has two winners in the first draw of 2016. Mary and Kaitlyn O’Donnell, promoter Eileen O’Donnell €200 and Rachael Mansfield, promoter Breda Cronin €200. Special congrats to both. Our draw numbers slightly down on last year but I am sure this will change going forward. So, if your not in yet, you might consider joining by contacting anyone of our twenty promoters.

Ballyduff Upper Juvenile U-10 FOOTBALL We’ve played our second and third round matches over the last two Sundays at home against Naomh Bríd and away to the Brickey Rangers. Both were exciting matches and the boys continue to do themselves proud. Our final round match away to Ardmore was cancelled due to bad weather. TOWN & COUNTRY U-11 HURLING DIVISION 2 (SPONSORED BY GER WYLEY SPORTS/FOOTWEAR) Our first round fixture at home against An Ghaeltacht was called off due to the bad weather last weekend. Round 2 will be away to Cois Bhride on Friday, 15th April. TOWN & COUNTRY U-12 HURLING DIVISION 2 (SPONSORED BY GER WYLEY SPORTS/FOOTWEAR) We play away to Naomh Bríd in Modeligo, in the first round of this league on Friday next at 6.30 pm. PRESENTATION OF MEDALS TO THE U-15 TEAM On Saturday evening, 19th March the presentation of medals to our U-15 team, winners of the Western Bórd na nÓg U-15 Hurling Division 3 2015 took place. Thanks to the parents for organising the refreshments and to Mikey Kearney who presented the medals. U-14 FOOTBALL Two matches have been played so far in this league with the boys doing themselves proud and beating Clashmore/Kinsalebeg on a scoreline of 6/9 to 6/5 and also St. Oliver’s on a scoreline of 4/4 to 2/5. We have two rounds left to play, playing each of these teams a second time, with the fixture away to Clashmore/Kinsalebeg fixed for Monday, 11th April. U-16 FOOTBALL We played Ardmore at home in the second round of this championship on Wednesday, 23rd March and were beaten on a scoreline of 9/9 to 3/3. The next round match against Ferrybank was called off due to the weather. U-18 FOOTBALL On Sunday, March 20th we travelled to Carrickbeg to play St. Mollerans and in what was a hard fought victory, came out on top on a scoreline of 1-7 to 1-2. We would like to wish the best of luck to two club members Óisín Hickey and Eoghan Murray who are both on the Waterford Minor panel facing Cork on Wednesday in Walsh Park. ST. PATRICK’S DAY PARADE Thanks to all our members and their parents who participated in the Cappoquin Parade on St. Patrick’s Day. JOHN WEST – U-14 FÉILE NA nGAEL 2016 – 17th-19th JUNE This year we will be hosting a team from Westmeath in Group A of Division 9. A team from Kerry and the Brickey Rangers are also in our Group. KELLOGG’S GAA CÚL CAMPS 2016 Booking online is now open for this year’s Camp which takes from the 11th-15th July. If you book early, kits will be available during the last week of the school term, so you will have the gear before the Camp starts. Please register at www.kelloggsculcamps.gaa.ie

CLG na na Rinne Rinne PEIL F21 D'imir peileadóirí na Ghaeltachta i chluiche ceannais an Iarthar ar Luan Cásca i bPáirc Uí Fhearcahair in aghaidh Gaeil Na Comaraigh. Cluiche maith oscailte a bhí ann.Tar éis tús maith a bheith againn, tháinig lads na gCumarach isteach sa cluiche go láidir agus fuaireadar trí cúl a d'fhág an scór ag leath am; Gaeil na Comaraigh 3-4 An Ghaeltacht 1-8. Bhí lámh an uachtar ag fir na Ghaeltachta sa dara leath nuair a scóráladar 1-9 i gcoinne 0-6, an cúl cinniúnach faighte ag Óisín Mac Síomóin. Críochnaigh an cluiche: An Ghaeltacht 2-17; Gaeil na Comaraigh 3-10. An foireann ar an lá: Pól Óg Ó Domhnaill, Cormac Mac Murchú, Darach Ó Cathasaigh, Brian de Barún, Diarmaid Ó Cuirrín (0-3), Fearghal Ó Ceallaigh (0-1), Conor Ó Cuirrín, Fearghal Ó Cuirrín (1-3), Jamie de Barún (0-1) (capt), Páraic Ó Lonáin (0-1), Seánaí Mac

Building on last year’s success, both on the pitch and off the pitch, the Waterford County Camogie Board are looking to raise vital funds for this year by holding a Benefit Dog Night at Kilcohan Park Greyhound Stadium on Saturday, 9th April, 2016, with doors opening at 7.00 p.m. Tickets can still be purchased through the organising committee where an adult ticket will set you back €10.00 and a family ticket €15.00 – admission for 2 adults and up to 4 children. Great fun to be had on the night with 9 live races. Pictured at the launch in Carriganore were from left: Joe Cleary, Chairman, Finance Committee, Waterford Camogie Board; John C. Flood, Treasurer, Waterford Camogie Board; Deirdre Brennan and Charlotte Raher, Waterford Senior Camogie team; Ita Murphy, Chairperson, Waterford Camogie Board, and Sean Fleming, Interim Waterford Senior Hurling Manager 2016. You can also contact the Waterford Camogie Board through their Facebook page. [Noel Browne] Craith (0-1), Bryan Frinnseach (0-5), Aaron Ó Crotaigh, Conor Mac Diarmada (0-1), Nioclás Ó Condúin. Fir ionad Dylan Toibín do Condúin, Óisín Mac Síomóin (1-0) do Ó Lonáin, Páidí Foghlú do Ó Crotaigh, Seán Ó Laoire do Mac Síomóín.

PEIL SINSIR D'imir na lads in aghaidh an Árdmhór an Satharn seo caite sa sraith. I droch lá do cluiche níor éirigh leo an bua a fáil. Scór deiridh: Árdmhór 0-8; An Rinn 0-5. Anois tá na lads ag díriú isteach ar an céad cluiche craoibhe atá ar siúl an Domhnach seo chugainn 10/4/16 nuair a thugfaidh siad aghaidh ar Ghaill Tír. Thíos ins an Choill a bheidh sé ar siúl ag tosnú ag 3.30 pm. PEIL SÓISIR Cuireadh an cluiche peile sóisir in aghaidh Baile na Míolach ar ceal an Aoine seo caite de bharr droch aimisir. Tá an céad cluiche eile socraithe don Aoine seo 8/4/16 agus Ráth Uí gCormaic a bheimid in aghaidh thuas i bPáirc Ui Shíothcháin. Tosnóidh an cluiche ag 6.45 pm. LOTTO - TORTHAÍ LOTTO 28/3/16 Uimhreacha: 19, 21, 25, 28. Níor bhuaigh aoinne an pota óir an tseachtain seo caite. Bhuaigh na daoine seo a leanas €25: Éanna Ó Muirithe, Clíona Mhic Giolla Chuda, Brian Tyers. Beidh €12,000 sa pota óir an tseachtain seo chugainn agus is i dTigh Uí Mhaonaigh a bheidh an tarraingt. LOTTO 1916 Comhgháirdeachas go dtí Bríd Uí Mhuiríosa a bhuaigh an crannchur speisialta a dhein an chlub ar Luan Cásca. Ba mhaith linn go raibh maith agat a rá do gach aoinne a thug tacaíocht dúinn ar an oíche. GORTÚ Gortaíodh Cathal Ó Cuirrín an Satharn seo caite ins an cluiche sraithe in aghaidh an Árdmhór. Tá súl againn nach bhfuil an gortú ródháiríre agus go bhfeicimid Chathal ar páirc na h-imirthe go luath arís.

Geraldines Geraldines Championship week is upon us, and the work and commitment of the players and management through the long evenings of Winter will surely be evident for all to see this weekend. Our intermediate footballers kick-off the year against Dungarvan in Bushy Park at 7 pm on Saturday, while our Junior Footballers play Ballysaggart on Sunday. The players and management have put in a huge effort over the winter and will aim to start the championship as impressively as they did last year. The aim of all involved is to improve on last year and bring silverware back to the club. Training continues Tuesday evening, further details by text. Last instalments of membership now due this week. If anyone would like me to include any news please email dfrsmj@gmail.com

Kilmacthomas Kilmacthomas INTERMEDIATE FOOTBALL LEAGUE On Saturday evening week last, we played Dunhill in the second round of the league football in the home grounds. This game was a very sporting affair. The pitch was in very good order after the early morning’s rain. Kilmacthomas were short a few players. In the end Kilmacthomas came away with a win. Well done lads.

Kilmacthomas take on near neighbours John Mitchels next Saturday evening in the intermediate football. There is never much between the teams. We are hoping to have a full strength team for this game. HURLING The hurling will be starting in early May, so from now on we will be training a few nights a week. We will have more details about the hurling next week. WATERFORD HURLERS Our hurlers had near escape on Sunday last against a very good Wexford side who took a lot of people by suprise. But they really put it up to the Deise. We were very lucky to get out of Wexford Park with a one point win as the old saying is that you are only as good as your last game. Up the Deise. KILMACTHOMAS AND WATERFORD HURLERS Kilmacthomas are very proud to be involved with the Deise hurlers in three different ways. Number one is the hurlers train at the Gallops on the land belonging to John Byrne’s famous stud farm who has breed some good winners down the years. Number two is most of the players eat the best food in the country belonging to Flavahans of Kilmacthomas and number 3 is another Kilmacthomas man and former Kilmacthomas Chairman and footballer Paudie Pender is the top water man with the Waterford hurlers. He calls it the Kilmacthomas Comeragh water.

John Mitchels Mitchels INTERMEDIATE FOOTBALL For the second week in a row our league game was postponed. Due to a very wet week both Dunhill’s and our own field were unplayable. This Saturday we are due to play Kilmacthomas at home. Game is currently timed for 5 pm. Training continues Tuesday and Thursday night at 7:30 pm. UNDERAGE All our teams returned to training on Thursday evening last. It was great to have everyone back and we hope to enjoy all our training and games throughout the summer. Training will continue every Thursday at 6:30 pm. If you've never been before or have only recently moved to the area just come along and we will look after your children. All coaches are Garda vetted and have many years of experience coaching children. GET WELL SOON All in the club would like to wish Richie Lacey a speedy recovery after a serious injury. We hope to see Richie back on the playing field sooner rather than later. FEWS FUNDRAISER Fews School will be holding a quiz fundraising night at Crotty’s Inn on April 15th. This is a very worthwhile event as our local school continues to grow. Please Support!

Kilgobinet Kilgobinet DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Sunday, 10th April - Melleray V Kilgobinet in Melleray at 12 noon. Sunday 17th April - Kilgobinet V Geraldines in Bohadoon at 12 noon. Saturday 14th May - Junior A Hurling Kilgobinet V Geraldines in Bushy Park at 7.30 pm.

DEISE DRAW It's that time of year again, the club’s main source of funds is from sales of Deise draw tickets. Breda Walsh is the draw co-ordinator and has distributed tickets to all sellers. We would ask all players to please make an effort to get their membership fees paid as soon as possible as any player who suffers an injury in training or matches will not be covered by insurance. This is a ruling from Croke Park who are the administrators of the Players’ Injury Fund. Your Membership officer is J. J. FItzgerald. We play our first championship game on Sunday against Melleray on Sunday morning. Training has gone well, so best of luck to all involved. SYMPATHY On behalf of all associated with our Club, we would like to express our sincerest sympathies to the extended Riordan and Phelan families on the passing of David Riordan. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a ainm.

Kill CLUB LOTTO Dunphy’s Bar hosted the latest draw in the club Lotto last Monday night, 28th March, where a jackpot worth 10k was on offer. However we had no winner of the jackpot on the night but we had a couple of Match 3’s. Michael O'Regan, Knockane and Alice Power, were lucky enough to have 3 of the 4 numbers drawn and so they both win €25 each. The numbers drawn on the night were 3, 23, 27, 28. Also on the night we had we a draw for Easter where we drew 6 names, with each receiving €25. The following got drawn:- Bridget Gallagher, Castlecroddick; Andrea Mulcahy, Kill village; James Casey, Tankardstown;, Emma Gallagher, Castlecroddick; Maria Mooney, Dunabrattin, and Marie Whelan, Carrickphilip. The next draw will be in Kirwan’s where once again the jackpot is there to be won. INTERMEDIATE FOOTBALL LEAGUE:The weather was the victor last weekend when our league game against DLS fell by the wayside. Both Cleaboy and Kill were unplayable last Saturday evening and this game will now be refixed at a later date. This coming Saturday, neighbours Dunhill will provide the opposition in Kill in Round 3 of the league, with no time as of writing the notes, so please check with club officers closer to the weekend. JUNIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP:All going well our 'second’ string squad will see action this coming Friday evening, 8th April, in the opening round of the championship. With Portlaw withdrawing, the board have restructured the fixtures and we are now playing St. Paul’s rather than Ferrybank. It’s an away game with a throw in time of 6.45 pm. We ask all club members to support the lads. SINCERE SYMPATHY:To current player and clubman Flannan Cleary on the sad passing of his father Peter in Shinrone, Co. Offaly last week. Flannan has given great service to the green and white since he arrived on the scene in Kill over a decade ago, culminating in a couple of County medals. May he rest in peace. Also sympathies to the O'Regan family on the sad passing of Fr. Michael Duggan, Dublin, who was laid to rest in Kill last Saturday morning. May the angels have mercy on his soul.

GAA CLUB NOTES

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Lismore KINDLY SPONSORED BY EAMONN'S PLACE LISMORE CLUB LOTTO Our club lotto was held on Tuesday evening, March 29th, at 7.30 p.m. in the Community Centre for a whopping Jackpot of €20,000. Numbers drawn on the night were as follows: 7, 13, 22. & 25. No winner. Consolation prizes of €20 went to John, Sarah, Jim and Mike Fenton, Bruno c/o Hotel, Mary Shanahan, Sarah Geoghegan. Next week's draw will be held on Tuesday, April 5th, for the same Jackpot of €20,000. Tickets €2 each or 3 for €5. COMMITTEE MEETING Thursday evening 8.00 p.m. in the Community Centre we will have a committee meeting. All members are requested to attend. SPEEDY RECOVERY Lismore GAA Club wishes a speedy recovery to Club sponsor Eamonn (Koochie) Walshe after his recent spell in hospital. Here's to seeing you out and about Eamonn sooner rather than later. WATERFORD COUNTY HURLING Well done to Waterford County hurlers on their narrow win over Wexford in the National League quarter-final held in Wexford last Sunday. This win now sees them in the League semi-final in two weeks time against old rivals Limerick. Well done to our own club man Maurice who gave a man of the match performance on the day.

Melleray Melleray Glenrovers Glenrovers WEEKLY LOTTO Week ending 03/04/2016, numbers drawn on the night were as follows: 6, 7, 26 & 27. there was no winner of the €2,200.00 jackpot. Next week’s lotto draw will take place on Sunday night next at the Cats Bar Melleray at 9.00 p.m. for a Jackpot of €2,250.00. Consolation prizes on the night went to Johnny Kett, Martin Keohane and Niamh Duggan. Many thanks to all who continue to support our weekly Lotto, much appreciated. DEISE DRAW Deise Draw tickets are now available for purchase from any member of Melleray Glenrovers Committee. FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP First round of the Football Championship, Melleray Glenrovers v. Kilgobinet on 10th April in Melleray at 12.00 noon. Come on the Glen. Your support for the lads, as always, is much appreciated. CLOTHES COLLECTION A Clothes Collection will take place in the Cats Bar Carpark on Saturday week, 16th April, between 1.00 and 5.00 p.m. WELL DONE Well done to Waterford Senior Hurlers who stole a victory over Wexford on Sunday last and we wish the team, management, mentors and supporters the very best of luck going forward in the National League semi-finals in Thurles in the coming weeks.

Modeligo WESTERN INTERMEDIATE FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP 2016; BALLYDUFF UPPER vrs. MODELIGO Our football squad open their Championship campaign with a game against Ballyduff Upper on Saturday evening next at the Lismore GAA Club venue. Please go and give the lads your support in their first championship outing in the Intermediate grade. Throw-in here is timed for 7 pm. INDOOR HURLING; Indoor Hurling will finish up for this school year on Friday evening next, April 8th, which is the final week planned before training moves outdoors onto the pitch. NAOMH BRÍD JUVENILE GAA CLUB REGISTRATION DAY & ANNUAL FUNDRAISING "BALL ROLL" Our Juvenile Club, Naomh Bríd will hold their Annual Registration Day and Fundraising Ball Roll went ahead on Sunday, April 3rd in Modeligo. Thanks to everyone who supported our juvenile club; to everyone who helped out on the day and in particular to Lar O'Byrne for his assistance once again this year. Congratulations also to Ms. Aoife Browne; Carraiglea, Dungarvan who was the owner of the winning ball in this year's Fundraising Ball Roll. WATERFORD CAMOGIE COUNTY BOARD FUNDRAISING "NIGHT AT THE DOGS"; The County Camogie Board Fundraiser at Kilcohan Park Greyhound track on Saturday, 9th April was launched at the last County Board meeting. Tickets are available through Modeligo Camogie Club by contacting any committee member. In addition to a fundraising event, this night promises to be a chance to enjoy a good nights entertainment while supporting camogie in Waterford. DÉISE DRAW; In last week's notes, I reported that unfortunately, there was no local success for our club, as I hadn't been informed of any good news, and also, because when I checked before writing, the

County Bord website had not been updated with a prizewinners list. And so, since it was pointed out to me during the past few days, I am glad to correct this. So congratulations to our local members, Eamon Hickey and Shane Reddy, both of whom were prizewinners in the March draw. Just goes to show, don't ever assume anything!

Naomh Brid Naomh Brid LEAGUES Under 9 Hurling and Football leagues will begin with hurling on Monday, April 11th and will alternate football/Hurling every Monday after that until May 30th, fixtures are due out this coming week. Under 10 footballers played Lismore on Sunday last in Modeligo. The Under 12 hurling league will start on next Friday, April 8th versus Ballyduff Upper in Kirwan Park, Touraneena at 6.30 pm. Under 13 combined with St. Pats produced another impressive display last week against Tramore. Next up is an away game to Cois Brid on Monday, April 11th in Tallow at 7 pm. OUTDOOR TRAINING Training for all groups from under 12 down will be in Modeligo pitch every Tuesday evening from 6.30 pm to 7.30 pm. BALL RUN Naomh Brid held their Registration day and Ball Run on Sunday last in Modeligo Community field. The under 16 vs The Brickeys was held on the main pitch and at the same time an under 10 football game vs Lismore was held in the astro turf. Naomh Brid won both games by a single point, well done to all and thanks also to travelling teams. Next the under 8 squad had a mini blitz in the astro turf and we finished up with the annual ball run on the ball alley hill. Only one ball made it past the finishing line – number 5. Congratulations to Aoife Browne from the Brickeys, and also to Ger Commins for being drawn out for the sellers prize. The club would like to thank all the parents that bought or sold tickets for this event. CUL CAMP 2016 This year the Cul Camp will be held in Bohadoon on the week commencing on Monday, August 1st. Camp Co-Ordinator is Mary Fahey (0872813935).

Sean Phobal Phobal CHAMPIONSHIP On Sunday next, April 10th, we face Baile na Cúirte at Fraher Field in our opening game of 2016. No doubt this will be a stern test and we will need a full-blooded effort to come away with a victory. Ba dheas an lucht leanúna a bheith linn chomh maith. Déanann sé deifríocht mór agus tugann sé misneach do na h-imreóirí. So come along and support the lads. Don’t wait until later in the year. The early games are equally important and just as enjoyable. Throw-in is at 1.30 p.m. 1916 CELEBRATIONS Just as Eoin McNeill's orders caused havoc with the rebels plans back in 1916, history has repeated itself in Sean Phobal GAA in 2016. I reported in my notes last week that we would celebrate the Easter Rising with an evening of appropriate music and song on Sunday, 24-42016, at the Marine Bar. This event has now been brought forward to Saturday evening, 23-42016. More details will follow in the coming weeks. If only Pearse and Connolly had email!!!

Naomh Chartaigh ChartaighJuveniles Juvenile LISMORE / BALLYSAGGART JUVENILE NAOMH CHARTAIGH U-12s On Wednesday last our U-12s along with mentors and some parents headed to Croke Park to take part in a Munster GAA Activity Day which we were delighted to be invited to take part in. On arrival in Croke Park, all players were taken on a tour in which they visited the dressing rooms, warm up room, media room, players lounge etc. which finished with the walk out the tunnell onto the side of the pitch. This was very interesting for our lads which they really enjoyed before togging off to walk onto the famous turf of Croke Park to play three matches. In our matches we played Upperchurch Drimbane (Tipp), Kenmare (Kerry) and Doon (Limerick). In all three games our lads played excellent and it was a very proud occasion to see our young players kitted out in the Black n Amber trying their hearts out and showing some superb skill throughout on the hallowed ground of Croke Park. On the way home we stopped off for something to eat and all arrived home safely at around 8.00 p.m. Many thanks to the mentors & parents who drove the children on the day which was a day to be remembered by child and adult alike. Here's hoping to see some if not all of these juveniles back in Croke Park in year's to come wearing the Blue & White of their county colours. U-10s On Sunday our U-10s travelled to Modeligo and played a football league game. The lads did

Eddie Fitzgerald, Dungarvan Nissan, presents the keys of the Sponsored Kit Van for the Waterford Senior Hurlers to Roger Casey. Included are Paddy Joe Ryan, County GAA Board Chairman; John Jackson, Treasurer County GAA Board; Dan Shanahan, Waterford Senior Hurlers Mentor, and John C. Flood, Dungarvan Nissan. [Sean Byrne//Deise Media] really well and well done to all involved. PADDY WHELAN U-14 TOURNAMENT Due to poor weather and ground conditions our Paddy Whelan U-14 Tournament scheduled for last Saturday morning had to be cancelled. We have now set a new date of Saturday, April 16th, at 10.00 a.m. for this tournament to take place. More details to follow. DISCO The juvenile disco in conjunction with the camogie club takes place this Friday night, April 8th, in the Community Centre, timed for between 8.00 p.m. and 11.00 p.m. DJ on the night will be our own Liam O' Gorman. This is a fundraiser to purchase new team kits for the upcoming Feile Na Gael which is being held in Waterford this year. Your support on the night would be greatly appreciated. MEMBERSHIP 2016 Outstanding membership for 2016 can be given to mentors / committee members at any training session or match. To those who have paid a sincere thanks. Remember if your child / children have not membership paid they are not covered by insurance to train or play matches.

Shamrocks Shamrocks CLUB LOTTO Last week's winning lotto numbers were 8, 17, 19, 23 and there was no winner. €20 winners were Liam Fraser, Dee Corcoran, Mary Pratt, Ray Walsh, Ger McGrath. Next week's jackpot will be €13,650. JUNIOR FOOTBALL Our first championship match of the year takes place this Saturday against neighbours Tallow in Lismore at 5.30 pm. Best of luck to all the lads, and do come along and give them some support. DEISE DRAW We had no winners in last month’s draw, and we would like to thank everyone who supported the draw. DEISE QUALIFY FOR SEMI-FINALS I had a feeling that Wexford were a potential banana skin when I heard the draw and so it proved as Waterford had to dig deep to beat a spirited Wexford team written off by everyone. If it wasn't for some poor finishing it could well have been the yellow bellies who progressed to the semi final. Waterford will have to improve quite a bit if they are to beat Limerick who had a brilliant result against the Dubs away.

Comeragh Rangers Ladies Football Comeragh Rangers would like to thank everyone who supported the Annual Cake Sale last Sunday and hope you all enjoyed the nice treats. The girls deserve a lot of credit for their work in making this another successful fund raiser as the players organised the whole event and money raised will go towards balls and equipment for training. The Club also would like to invite all past and present players and their parents to an order day in Rathgormack Club House on the Saturday, 16th April from 10 am -12 noon to veiw the club's New Official Gear. Tops, Half zips and Tracksuits can all be seen on the day and orders can be taken on the day or by contacting either Caroline Murphy 087-689 4463 or Nora Dunphy 087-773 6837. Early viewing along with prices can be seen on our Facebook page. Players Registration evening will take place on Thursday, 7th and Thursday, 14th of April between 7:15 and 8:15 and prices remain the

same as last year. Also a reminder Under 8 and Under 10 training commences at 6:30 pm on the Thursday, 7th April.

St.Mary’s Mary’s Juveniles Juveniles St. WEATHER, WALK-OVERS, CANCELLATIONS It was a frustrating weekend on the playing front for our different age groups on the week just gone. Firstly our U-21 football game with Rathgormack last Friday night fell by the wayside due to the bad weather with no refixture as of writing the notes. Then on Sunday morning our minor football game was cancelled due to Ciaran Kirwan’s involvement with the Waterford minor hurlers this Wednesday evening (we wish him the best of luck). Also on Sunday morning our U14 footballers were due to play Clan Na Gael but they received a walk-over, which gives them their first points of the campaign. One team who did see fare was our U-16 footballers who shared the spoils with Rathgormack in a thrilling game at the Comeragh venue last Wednesday evening, 30th March, in their second game of the championship. This leaves them with 3 points from their two games played. Final score St. Mary's 2-7; Rathgormack 2-7.

St. Pats U-10 FOOTBALL Our under 10's concluded their football league matches on Sunday with a great match against the Nire in Bohadoon. Both teams gave it everything and a fitting game to finish the league and thanks to Dale for bringing his lads down. The previous week, Clashmore came to Bohadoon. Both sides had an even first half and Clashmore had the better of things in the second half and were probably one of the best teams we played and thanks to Ger for that game. The week previous to that on Saturday, 19th March, the Gaeltacht came to Bohadoon in an other very even game and a big thanks to Dave for this match and he also brought a team of U-8's to play our lads at the same time as the U-10 match and the young lads had a great morning as well Both clubs had a great family morning. Next up for this team is the hurling league which won't be for a few weeks. Training starts out doors on Monday, April 4th for the U-9's and these lads start their league matches next Monday and for the following few weeks. Training is from 6-30 – 7.30 p.m. UNDER 6’s Training returns for this group at 6.30 p.m. this Friday night in the Sports Centre. SPLIT THE POT Thanks to everyone who supported the first monthly draw. Congratulations to our first winner Brian Veale who received €712. Our next draw will be in Quill’s Bar on the 27th April. Tickets are €2 each or 3 for €5. Tickets are available at the Pike Service Station, local bars, Beary’s Cross and from any committee members. SYMPATHY The club would like to extend our deepest sympathy to the Power family in Coolnasmear on the recent death of Stephen. Stephen was involved in the club at various stages and was also a great fundraiser for both club and county. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.

Tourin Tourin TRAINING Training continues Wednesday and Friday nights at 7.30. We should have a match at the

weekend depending on pitch availability. WATERFORD MINOR HURLING The very best of luck to the Waterford Minors and Mark McConnell (fitness coach) in their opening championship match tonight against Cork. Throw-in is at 6:30 p.m. in Walsh Park. ALLIANZ NHL Well done to Shane and Darragh Fives and the rest of the Waterford panel on defeating Wexford in the Allianz NHL quarter final. Waterford defeated a determined Wexford on Sunday at Innovate Wexford Park. Waterford were slow to start and had to wait until the 12th minute for their first point to Wexford’s six. Wexford went on to extend the lead to six points again leading 0.08 to 0.02 before Waterford scored six points to end the half strongly. Wexford responded to leave the score at half-time 9 points to 8. The second half was even enough, but Waterford opened a three point lead. The Wexford free-taker missed several scorable frees and they looked dead and buried before a long ball ended up in the net in the 67th minute. Maurice Shanahan responded with a free and Waterford went on to win by a point 17 points to 1-13. Waterford now play Limerick who defeated Dublin on Sunday 17th of April in Thurles. Kilkenny play Clare to make up the other semifinal also on in Thurles as part of a double header. BADMINTON Well done to Shane O’Mahony and the rest of the Waterford grade F team on winning the All Ireland. Best of luck to Tourin 1 in their semi-final of the mixed league tonight. They play Lismore in Lismore at 7.30. Also best of luck to Marie and Cathal on Sunday, in the mixed H Munster finals in UL.

Ballysaggart CLUB LOTTO Results 29th March: Numbers drawn were 1, 9, 16 and 25. No jackpot winner. Winners of €20 each were Darragh Kearney, Mary B. O’Brien and Seamus Kearney. Next Draw 5th April the jackpot stands at €7,125. UPCOMING FIXTURES Ballysaggart take on the Geraldines in the Junior Football Intermediate Attached Championship in Aglish this Sunday, April 10th, at 12 noon. Please support. WATERFORD IN LEAGUE SEMI-FINAL Well done to all involved with the Waterford Senior Hurling panel on their one point victory over Wexford in Wexford Park last Sunday. Our own club player Shane Bennett was on the starting fifteen and made a great contribution to the win to lead to a semi-final game against Limerick. This game is due to be played as a double headed in Thurles on Sunday, April 17th, at 2.00 p.m.

Cois Bhride Cois Bhride KINDLY SPONSORED BY CUNNINGHAM'S HARDWARE, TALLOW U-13 FOOTBALL Our U13 Footballers had a great win against Stradbally in Knockanore last Thursday. U-11 HURLING Our u11 hurlers had a fine win against St. Olivers last Monday in tough conditions. This was their first match of the Town and Country League. Team: Josh Good, Ian Martin, Adam McSweeney, Ciaran Lenehan, Jack McDonnell, Jake Henley, Alan Hurley, Cian O'Brien, Callum McCarthy, Conor Henley, Stephen Murphy, Ben Grey, Taylor Twohig.

U-12 HURLING Our u-12s will have their first game of the season against St. Patrick’s next Friday evening. Best of luck to all.

SOCCER

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Dungarvan United FC

DUNGAVAN LADIES FOOTBALL SPONSORSHIP: The club would like to thank Murphys Bar/Waves nightclub for their sponsorship of a new set of jerseys for our adult team. Included in the photos are Margaret Cunningham and Anne Curran being presented the jerseys by Pat Power (Manager) and also John Murphy (Owner).

Fenor GAA Social – Waterford County GAA Board Vice Chairman, Seán Ó Reagáin made a special presentation to Ann O’Neill who looked after the gear in 2015. [Noel Browne]

Fenor GAA Social – Waterford County GAA Board Vice Chairman, Seán Ó Reagáin made a special presentation to Kevin Burns for his contribution to Fenor GAA Club over the years. [Noel Browne]

PREMIER DIVISION REPORT NICKY HITS FOUR IN BLUES ROUT St. Joseph's ...................... 2; Dungarvan Utd ................. 8. DUNGARVAN Utd travelled to Carriganore on Sunday morning last with a squad ravaged by injury and suspension, to take on St. Joseph's, and would probably have snapped your hand off if offered a point prior to kickoff. Half a premier team were watching from the touchline, with regulars Tony Fitzgerald, Pat Quinn, Piotr Goch, Shane Kelly and several others all unavailable for selection. Managers Tommy Butler and Stan Cummins had to shuffle the pack and also blood some younger players, with Gary Crotty of the u-16s being handed his full debut at this level. The Blues shrugged off these challenges and routed St. Joseph's who looked every bit a side in danger of relegation. Dungarvan took charge of the game right from the first whistle, and looked particularly dangerous down the right hand side, with fullback Gerry Kelly being the most influential player on the pitch, receiving the ball regularly and springing both Dylan Guiry and Ryan Donnelly on touchline runs. The Blues opened the scoring on 13 minutes when Kelly released Guiry, who pulled the ball back from the byeline for Niall Farrell to finish crisply with a low shot. Gerry Kelly was again directing play on 18 minutes, when a similar ball down the right channel found Ryan Donnelly, whose powerful cross was met by Nicky Donnelly with a spectacular diving header for an excellent goal and a 2-0 lead. Just four minutes later it was 3-0, when Gerry Kelly yet again played Ryan Donnelly in down the right, whose cross was brilliantly met on the half turn by Nicky Donnelly, his shot flying into the top left hand corner. The game was over as a contest on 32 minutes when - you guessed it - Gerry Kelly played yet another outstanding ball to Ryan Donnelly down the right again, and Ryan had his third assist of the half when his cross was finished by the unstoppable Nicky Donnelly, completing his first half hat-trick, and giving the Blues an unassailable 4-0 lead. Dungarvan could have a few more goals in the half, with both Donnellys going close, and Kevin Walsh having a penalty well saved by the Joseph's 'keeper. Dungarvan dominated the early part of the second half just as much as the first, with chances aplenty. A brilliant freekick from the unlucky Ryan Donnelly came back off the crossbar, and he then had a goal ruled out for offside. Nicky Donnelly also went close with an outrageous lob. The game became a bit

sloppy as St. Joseph's heads began to drop, and the intensity dropped in the Dungarvan play as the result was beyond question. On 65 minutes, Dungarvan extended their lead to five, when a Lee Hyslop overlap and cross found Nicky Donnelly, whose shot came back off the foot of the post, and Niall Farrell got his second of the day when he tucked in the rebound. Nicky got his fourth and Dungarvan's sixth on 70 minutes when he rounded the keeper and finished neatly. Dungarvan then conceded two poor goals, as they allowed Joseph's a good ten minute spell when they had been in total control. The Blues wrested back control in the final ten minutes, with Ryan Donnelly finally getting the two goals that his performance merited, and Shane Lannon went agonisingly close after a good run. Whilst St. Joseph's were poor on the day, you can, as the saying goes, only beat what's in front of you. There were aspects of Dungarvan's play that were very good, notably the damage they did down the right hand side, with Gerry Kelly continuing his very good form. Nicky Donnelly is on fire at the moment, and his goalpoaching instincts were too much for Joseph's to handle. The defence looked solid for most of the game, and it was only when the Blues switched off as a unit when the game was effectively over that Joseph's exerted any meaningful pressure. Ryan Donnelly is also coming into good form, and its good to see his sharpness returning after a long absence due to illness. This was a vital three points that now puts Dungarvan eight points clear of the relegation threatened sides of St. Joseph's and St. Saviours, although both these sides have games in hand over Dungarvan. Whilst no-one is saying this assures survival, it does give the Blues a good platform going into the final quarter of the season, and puts the clubs below them under huge pressure. Dungarvan Utd: Michael Walsh; Gerry Kelly; Christy Ross (c); Kevin Walsh (Patrick Lynch, 76); Gary Crotty (Lee Hyslop, 63); Dylan Guiry; David Condon; Shane Lannon; Niall Farrell; Nicky Donnelly; Ryan Donnelly. PREMIER DIVISION PREVIEW Dungarvan Utd travel to the RSC to take on Waterford Crystal next Sunday, 10th April, with an 11 am kick-off. Crystal sit 8th in the ten team Premier Division, just three points above bottom sides St. Joseph's and St. Saviours, and will be desperate for a win to help their cause in avoiding relegation. Crystal have had a patchy season, with occasional heavy defeats to the likes of

Gary Crotty, who made his full debut for Premier side. Hibs, but they have also knocked six past St. Saviours, and been unluckily beaten by Ferrybank on two occasions by the odd goal in three. What this all means is hard to know, other than to say Crystal's form can be unpredictable. Perhaps a better guide is their recent trip to Kilrush Park, where a 1-1 was draw was played out over the 90 minutes. Dungarvan will feel they have improved since then, being on a good run of form, where they have only lost two of their last seven league outings. The Blues though will carry a few suspensions into the game, and this has the feel of being a tight affair. Dungarvan have the advantage of having points on the board, and Crystal will be under much more pressure to be on the front foot. FIXTURES Sat. 9.4.16 - U-11 Red Home to Southend at 10.30 am - Main Sat. 9.4.16 - U-13B Away to Carrick at 2.00 pm - Away Sat. 9.4.16 - U-15A Home to Tramore at 2.30 pm - Glass Sat. 9.4.16 - 1B Home to Abbeyside at 7 pm - Main Sun. 10.4.16 - Prem Away to Crystal at 11.00am - Away Sun. 10.4.16 - 3rd away to Kilmacow at 11.00am - Away Sun. 10.4.16 - 4th Home to Crusaders at 11.00 am Glass Sun. 10.4.16 - Youths Away to Portlaw at 2.00 pm Away Tues. 12.4.16 - U14A Home to Carrick at 6.45 pm Glass Tues. 12.4.16 - U14C Away to Abbeyside at 6.15 pm - Away Wed. 13.4.16 - U-12C Home to Villa at 6.45 pm Glass. SUCCESSFUL EASTER CAMP After the inclement weather we have seen in recent times, it was like spring

had finally arrived when all the young blues bounced in like spring rabbits for four days of football fun. Over the days everyone got down to business and had some great fun and really applied themselves for the duration, Unfortunately, the rain made an appearance on Friday but it didn't dampen the spirits of the lads and ladies and the camp finished as it started on a high. Thanks to all the parents for supporting our camp, and supplying baked goods!! Many thanks to our ever ready coaches, Steve, Andrew, Deane, Kevin and Brona without who the camp couldn't happen. We are looking forward to Summer Camp already!! EURO RAFFLE Don't forget our Euro Raffle! First prize is two tickets to the Ireland V Belgium game in Bordeaux!! Tickets are available from any team manager or committee member. €2.00 each or 3 for €5.00. KICKSTART 1 We are delighted to host an FAI Kickstart 1 on Saturday, 23rd April. The cost for the course is €45.00. The course is open to anyone interested in coaching and can be booked directly at www.fai.ie/coached Any club coach wishing to participate contact Vicky 087 055 7939. 50th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS Our club is celebrating 50 years in the community and to mark the occasion we will hold a dinner dance and awards ceremony. Tickets are available from any committee member. We would appreciate support from all Club members, players, coaches and supporters to help celebrate this momentous occasion on Friday, 20th May, at Kilrush Park. Tickets are strictly limited.

Waterford Schoolboys’ Football League Results U-12A: Ballinroad 3; Dungarvan Utd A 0. Ferrybank A 2; Carrick Utd A 2 U-12B: De La Salle A 0; Southend Utd B 2. Kilmacthomas 3; Villa B 2. Portlaw Utd 0; Park Rangers A 4. Piltown A 1; Mooncoin Celtic A 2. U-12C: Ballyduff 2; St. Pauls 1. Carrick Utd B 1; Seaview Celtic 2. Ferrybank B 3; Stradbally 0. Tramore B 2; Bohemians B 3. U-12D: Ferrybank C 6; Mooncoin Celtic B 1. Park Rangers B 2; Dungarvan Utd C 0. Tramore C 5; Bohemians C 4. Villa C 1; Railway Athletic 4. U-14A: Carrick Utd A 0; Ferrybank A 1. Johnville 2; Tramore A 3. Piltown A 2; Southend Utd 5. U14B: Carrick Utd B 0; Ballinroad 3. Park Rangers 3; Kilmacthomas 6. Railway Athletic 0; Portlaw Utd 5. Tramore B 2; St. Pauls 3. U-14C: Abbeyside 1; Ferrybank B 6. U-16A: Piltown 4; Carrick United A 7. Villa A 7; Southend Utd 2. U-16B: Kilmacthomas 0; Bohemians A 5. St. Pauls 0; Ballinroad 1. U-16C: Bohemians B 1; De La Salle 3. Carrick Utd B 2; Park Rangers 1 U-12A: Tramore A 0; Southend Utd A 4. U-12C: W. Crystal 1; Dungarvan Utd B 2. U-12D: Kilmacow 5; De La Salle B 2. U-14C: Kilmacow 0; Villa B 3. W. Crystal 7; Bohemians B 2. Piltown B 1; Dungarvan Utd B 1. U-16A: Carrick Utd A 4; Piltown 2. Southend Utd 1; Dungarvan Utd 3. U-16C: Tramore B 4; Villa C 1. U-13B: Dungarvan Utd 3; Mooncoin Celtic 0. U-13C: Ballinroad B 1; Kilmacow 0. Seaview Celtic 0; Portlaw Utd 0.

Fixtures Wednesday, April 6th - (Kick off 6.15 p.m. unless otherwise stated) U-12C Bohemians B v St. Pauls (Bohemians) Thursday April 7th (Kick off 6.15 p.m. unless otherwise stated) U-12C Tramore B v Balldyuff (Tramore) Thursday April 7th (Kick off 6.15 p.m. unless otherwise stated) U-16A Tramore v Southend (Ferrybank) 7.00 pm Villa A v Piltown (Park Rangers) 6.45 pm U-16B Bohemians A v Ferrybank (Johnville) 6.45 pm Kilmacow v St. Pauls (Bohemians)

Kilmacthomas v Ballinroad (Stradbally) U-16C Carrick Utd B v Bohemians B (Mooncoin) De La Salle B v Tramore B (Kilmacow) Park Rangers v Villa C (De La Salle) Saturday, April 9th Under 11 Leagues (Kick off 10.30 a.m. unless otherwise stated) Red Dungarvan Utd v Southend Utd A Ferrybank A v Villa A Green Ballyduff v St. Pauls Park Rangers A v De La Salle A Blue Ballinroad v Mooncoin Celtic Ferrybank B v Seaview Celtic 12 noon Carrick Utd B v Villa B Kilmacthomas B v Tramore B Orange Bohemians A v De La Salle B Bolton v Villa C Southend Utd B v Railway Athletic Purple Kilmacow v St. Saviours Park Rangers B v Carrick Utd C 12 noon Portlaw Utd B v Bohemians B Tramore C v De La Salle C Saturday April 9th - (Kick off 12.30 p.m. unless otherwise stated) U-13A Ferrybank A v Carrick Utd (De La Salle) 2.00 pm Park Rangers v Johnville (Villa) 2.30 pm Villa v Southend Utd A (Portlaw) U13B Carrick Utd B v Dungarvan Utd (Portlaw) 2.00 pm Mooncoin Celtic v De La Salle (Bohemians) Southend Utd B v Bohemians A (Villa) 2.30 pm W. Crystal v Kilmacthomas (Southend) U-13C Ballinroad B v Villa B (Railway Ath) Bohemians B v Railway Athletic (Johnville) 2.30 pm Seaview Celtic v Stradbally (Ballyduff) Saturday, April 9th (Kick off 2.30 p.m. unless otherwise stated) U-15A Carrick Utd A v Bohemians A (Piltown) 4.00 pm Dungarvan Utd v Tramore A (Ballinroad) St. Pauls v Ferrybank A (Tramore) Villa A v Southend Utd (Park Rangers) U-15B Kilmacthomas v Carrick Utd B (Stradbally) Piltown v Park Rangers (Ferrybank) Portlaw Utd v Bohemians B (Carrick Utd) U-15C De La Salle v Ferrybank B (Kilmacow) Villa B v Railway Athletic (Seaview)

Kilmacthomas FC UNDER 12 Mooncoin ......................... 1; Kilmac .............................. 3. A GOOD win over a tough Mooncoin side with goals from Ben, Nathan and Dillon scoring his first goal for the club. A very good team performance with all the lads getting game time and everyone played their part in a good win. UNDER 12 Kilmac ............................. 3; Villa .................................... 2 A VERY exciting game on Monday in Alaska. The visitors took the lead and then a fine run by Nathan saw him score a peach of a goal. We fell behind again 5 minutes in the second half 1 - 2. Then another fine run by Nathan when he took on the defence and passed two before scoring a great goal. We took the lead when Nathan swung in a corner and Alex volleyed it to the net

while his back was to the goal. That was the winner in a very sporting game and a fine finish to the weekend. We again played the full squad and all the boys played their part. Well done everyone. UNDER 14 Park Rangers .................. 3; Kilmac .............................. 6. WE travelled to Park Rangers on Bank Holiday Monday with a large squad. We started off well when James Gough scored a brace of goals. Shortly afterwards Alan Dunwoody scored another goal to put us three in front after coming off the bench. The second half was a different affair with Park Rangers pulling two goals back. Our lads were not going to give in easily and a well worked move gave Alan a second goal. Shortly afterwards Alan completed his hat-trick for a great all round

GENERAL SPORT

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

performance to put us 5-2 in front. Park Rangers got a third goal to set up an exciting finish. In the dying minutes, Tadgh was fouled on the edge of the area and he put away his own free beautifully for a final score of 6-3 to give us all the points and our first win of the season. All 17 players played in a real team performance that saw eight changes in total during the game. The lads thoroughly deserved the victory and have shown a great attitude during the season and have continued to show for training and games. Well done lads and keep up the good work. Team: Martin, Pa, Dermot, Declan, Alan, Mul, Adam, Mike, Will, Cathal, Tadgh and James. Subs: Darragh, Louis Jack, Sean, Alan Dunwoody, Scott.

Stradbally FC RESULTS UNDER 12 SCHOOLBOYS LEAGUE Stradbally 5; Ballyduff 3. WATERFORD JUNIOR LEAGUE DIV 2 Johnville 1; Stradbally 1. Stradbally 3; Dunmore East 1. JUNIOR Two games over the Easter period yielded 4 points for the locals. On a mid-week fixture under the lights of St. Martin’s Park, the first point was gained. After the locals had the lions share of possession in the opening half, the hosts began to play better after the break. All the excitement though was reserved for the final 5 minutes as Johnville broke down the left wing and hit home from an acute angle. Despite time being limited, Stradbally refused to bow and Kevin Lawlor hit home through a crowded box to make it 1-1. Team: Pa Collins, Philip Curran, Ger Crowley, Alan D'Arcy, Damian Sheehan, Emmett Cummins, Paddy Kiely, John O'Shea, Kevin Lawlor, Paddy Doyle, Stephen Lawlor. Sub: Pa Queally. Easter Saturday saw the 3

points were won with a 3-1 home victory over Dunmore East. Stephen Lawlor paradoxically was helped by advantage not being played, as he goaled following a freekick. Ger Crowley scored at the back post, connecting with a cross. The visitors got a goal back before the break, but the locals regained the two goal lead when Kevin Lawlor pounced on a loose ball and scored, following the goalie’s inability to hold Emmett Cummins stinging shot. Four games left, 3 point cushion, all to play for, nothing won yet. Team: Pa Collins, Philip Curran, Alan D'Arcy, Ger Crowley, Damian Sheehan, Pa Queally, Emmett Cummins, Kevin Lawlor, Paddy Doyle, Stephen Lawlor, John O'Shea. SCHOOLBOYS Under 12 League: Despite conceding the opening score, the locals struck back to win on a 5-3 scoreline against a game Ballyduff side. Team: Tommy Fennell, Mikey O'Brien, Will Comyn, Ultan McCusker, Conor Fennell, Dara Quinn, Oisín

Leacy, Rory Fennell, Jack Quinlan, Oran Grant, Rian O'Reilly, Liam Leacy. LOTTO There was no Jackpot winner in the Lotto Draw in Whelan’s on Sunday night. Numbers drawn were 2, 3, 4, 11. €25 to: Matt Kiely, Nickey Drohan, Claire Crowley. Promoters Prize: Peggy Carey. The next draw is in The Cove Bar on Sunday, April 17th and the Jackpot prize on offer will be €4,000. Thanks to all who continue to support our Lotto. ASTROTURF AstroTurf Pitch is available to hire For time slot availability contact Tadhg at 087 2306841. ACADEMY & LITTLE DRIBBLERS An Easter to remember for our Academy youngsters as they had not one, but two Special Events to enjoy. A trip to the RSC in Waterford for the Ireland v Italy Under 21 International, where they saw some of the stars of the future, including highly rated 17 year old Milan stopper Gianluigi Donnarumna, in action. Last Wednesday they had a Skills Session with

Vinny Sullivan on the AstroTurf. This was a great success, and we trust that it will be the first of many visits to Stradbally for Vinny. Of course, our weekly Saturday morning Academy & Little Dribblers continues from 10.30 to 11.30 a.m. All children are welcome. Contact Aine or KerryAnn for further derails. CLUB KITS There are some club kits for children still available. Ideal birthday presents. For details contact Aine at 087 7618127. KEEPING IN TOUCH Our players, supporters and friends can find us on this column dedicated to us in the local papers. The Stradbally Notes in the same papers cover the Soccer Club, whilst we can be followed on Facebook at 'Stradbally AFC'. FIXTURES Saturday, April 9th - Under 13 Schoolboys League Seaview Celtic v Stradbally 12.30 p.m. Waterford Junior League Division 2 - St. Saviours v Stradbally 2.00 p.m. Sunday, April 10th Waterford Youths League Villa v Stradbally 2.00 p.m.

Ballinroad FC U-13’S REMAIN TOP OF THE TABLE On a very wet and wild Saturday, Ballinroad U13's must have played one of the few schoolboy games in the country. Whilst the pitch held up, the wind and rain tried the might and fitness of our visitors Kilmacow and ourselves. Both teams played to their utmost and had several chances. Eventually, before half-time a long range shot from Mark McGarry dipped under the crossbar to give the home team the only score in the game. Attacking runs from Adam White, Seanie Callaghan, Rian O'Dwyer, Tadgh Whitmore and Cormac Curran all helped keep Kilmacow under pressure in the second half. The sound of the referees whistle brought joy to the frozen players, parents and the coaching staff and guaranteed three points to the boys in green. Team: Niall Browne, Mark Sheehan, Seamus O'Sullivan, Adam Carroll Lawlor, Oran McGovern, Cormac Curran, Rian O'Dwyer, David Byrne, Tadgh Whitmore, Adam White, Mark McGarry, Mark Blackwell, Jack Ronayne, Kaylum Howard, Seanie Callaghan. YOUTHS LOSE OUT TO BOHS IN 7 GOAL THRILLER Ballinroad Youth's travelled to Bohs on Wednesday last to keep a push on winning the Youths A league after beating top of the table team Tramore the week previous. Conditions on the night were poor with the pitch very soft and slippy. Ballinroad got off to a great start with a ball curled in by Mark Boland hit off the post, but was knocked back in again and finished off by Ml. O’Neill to put Ballinroad ahead 0-1. Ballinroad kept pushing on and made some good chances but couldn't convert to get the vital second goal and a few very good saves from the Bohs keeper kept the scoreline at 0-1. Just on the stroke of half-time, a mis-

take from the back, followed by a short back pass left Bohs in who finished to make it 1-1 at half-time. Bohs were on top in the second half and punished Ballinroad for not clearing the ball and made it 2-1 after 5 minutes in the second half. Bohs had their tails up and were hungrier for the ball getting their third goal from a corner, Ballinroad not picking up with Bohs knocking the ball in from 5 yards, 3-1. Ballinroad made a few changes and only then seemed to get into the game and some great work down the right slotted Looby in who finished well to make it 3-2! Game on. Ballinroad kept the pressure on and made a great opening for Pa Power, caught the ball well and just drifted passed the post, keeper left stranded. Two more great saves from the Bohs keeper kept Bohs ahead and with Ballinroad pushing for the equaliser, Bohs hit on the counter attack and got their fourth goal of the game! 4-2. To Ballinroad’s credit, they kept pushing forward and got a third with minutes remaining to make it 4-3. It was just too little too late as Bohs held on for the well deserved victory. The league is still all to play for as Ballinroad are 4 points behind Tramore with just over half the games played. Team: Aaron Beresford, James Beresford, Mark Boland, Pa Power, Conor Whelan, Tony Collins, Ryan O’Neill, Peter Quealy, Gavin Joyce, Micheal O’Neill, Mark Allen. Subs used: Oisin O’Mahony, Tom Looby, Sean Whelan Barrett.

FAMILY FUN RUN/WALK We would love to see lots of local families out enjoying the longer evenings with us this Friday coming (April 8th) for our 2nd Annual Family Fun Run/Walk. The event is being organised in conjunction with West Waterford A.C’s MTS Media sponsored Ballinroad 5K Roadrace, with West Waterford AC generously allowing for all monies from

participants in the Fun Run/Walk on the night go towards our astroturf fund. Registration takes place from 6 pm at St. Laurence’s Hall, Ballinroad with the walk itself taking off at 7 pm. There is a €5 entry fee, but rest assured family discounts will apply on the night. All are welcome back to the hall afterwards for some light refreshments, some face painting for the kids and the chance to catch up with some of the neighbours. With the Astroturf just a week or so away from completion, it will be the perfect opportunity to come over and have a look at the fantastic facility the soccer Club have worked hard to have available for our local community. LOTTO There was once again no winner is last Sunday night’s Lotto, with the numbers drawn 5, 8, 11 & 21. The three winners of €20 were Alan Landers, Ann Marie Terry and Teresa Power. The next draw will be held in Lord Maguires Pub on April 17th. Tickets for the €10,000 jackpot are available from the local shop in Ballinroad.

GENERAL SPORT

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Kilmacthomas Badminton Club ALL-IRELAND GLORY Our club was well represented on county teams in last weekend's All-Ireland inter county team finals in UL. The Waterford Grade F team having won the Munster final back in February were ready to take on the other Provincial champions in UL. Waterford faced Galway and Wexford on the day. Our club were represented by Rachel Walsh, Natalie Brown, Adee Ali and Sean Dalton. The first game of the day saw Waterford take to the court to play Galway. The team got off to a flying start and managed to earn themselves a 7-2 victory. Wexford also beat Galway, to set up a final showdown with Waterford. Team manager Garvan Dunford had his team well prepared for the final, and the team took to court confident of their abilities to win. Unfortunately, the team didn't get the start they had hoped for, going 3-1 down after the doubles. Sean and James Power had a great two set victory in their game to claim a vital point for the team, while the other three games were narrowly lost in three sets. This left the team with an uphill battle, but everyone remained calm and supported each other through the remaining games. Waterford

took the mens singles, while Wexford won the ladies, giving the Wexford side a 4-2 lead going into the mixed, meaning Waterford needed to win the remaining three games to be crowned champions. It was two Kilmac pairings who took to court first with Rachel and Adee playing first mixed followed by Natalie and Sean in second mixed. Both pairings knew the task that lay ahead and stepped up to the plate to win both games in two sets leveling the tie with Wexford at 4-4. The young Waterford pairing of Tiarnan and Ellie were last to take to court knowing a win would secure All-Ireland glory for their team. The pair battled hard throughout and won an exciting game in 3 sets much to the delight of the traveling Waterford support. Well done also to team manager Garvan Dunford and thanks to Eoin Walsh who coached the team in the weeks leading up to the final. Our club were lucky enough to also have representatives on the Kilkenny grade D team who played on Sunday also, with Ellen O'Neill and Denise Duggan being part of the team. Kilkenny also saw themselves with a tough battle in their final against Limerick, similarly coming from 3-1 behind to win the tie

5-4. Well done to our six AllIreland winners, everyone in the club are very proud of your achievements. Here's hoping for continued success in the very near future. QUIZ Our annual quiz will take place this Friday night, April 8th in Kiersey's Bar, Kilmac. It would be great to see as many people as possible attend, as it is sure to be a great social event. Teams of 4 are €20. Hope to see you there! MIXED LEAGUES Our D and F teams have qualified for their respective league finals and we wish them the very best of luck. Our G and H teams will play their semi-finals this week, with the G team set to play Rathgormack and our H team facing Ballyduff. Best of luck to all. MUNSTER DOUBLES AND MIXED Best of luck to our club members taking part in this event in UL on Sunday next. Grade E: Mens Doubles: Thorsten Konekamp and Greville Madden (Lismore). Mixed Doubles: Garvan Dunford and Rachel Walsh. Grade F: Ladies Doubles: Rachel Walsh and Natalie Brown. Mixed Doubles: Natalie Brown and Greville Madden (Lismore).

Lismore Camogie Club TABLE QUIZ A GREAT SUCCESS On Friday night last, April 1st the club hosted a table Quiz in the Red House which was a great success. There were fifteen tables on the night, most were the loyal supporters of our senior camogie team and more who were parents of our younger players. Winners on the night were members of the Lismore GAA Club; Dan Geoghegan, Joe Pollard, Christy Brien and Robbie O'Sullivan. Thanks to them for handing back their winning money towards the club funds. Second place went to Quiz gurus; Pat Raferty, Eddie Pollard and Mr. Boyd. Third place went to our younger members of the Senior panel; Ellen Curran,

Sharon Williams, Karen Kelleher and Alice Russell. Huge thanks to Mike O’Leary the Senior teams sponsor who provided his premises for the event. Thanks also to all who donated the spot prizes for the raffle and the committee members who were in attendance to give a helping hand to ensure that everything went smoothly. A thank you to all who handed in money for the raffle who were unable to attend. Finally, thanks to Kate Heneghan who set the questions for the quiz and to Quiz Master Pat Williams who called out the questons. FEILE JUVENILE DISCO Friday night, April 8th, will be the second fundraising event for the upcoming AllIreland Feile Na nGael event

Camogie Table Quiz winners Dan Geoghegan, Joe Pollard, Christy Brien. Missing from picture is Robbie O'Sullivan.

in June which is a Juvenile Disco in conjunction with Lismore Juvenile GAA Club. This disco with DJ Liam O'Gorman and is for U16s and will be fully supervised, Admission is €10 with doors open at 8.00 p.m. Strictly no alcohol. FEILE GROUP Lismore Camogie Club has been drawn to take part in Div. 1 Group A and is in the same group as Gall Tir who are hosting Clare while Lismore is hosting Limerick 2. UP-COMING FIXTURES FOR APRIL Senior League – Sunday, April 17th, at 11.30 a.m.: Lismore V Gall Tir; Sunday, April 24th, at 11.30 a.m.: Cappoquin v. Lismore; Friday, April 29th, at 7.00 p.m. Lismore v. St. Anne’s; Sunday, May 1st, at 11.30 a.m.: Lismore v. An Rinn. U16 B – Tuesday, April 5th, at 6.30 p.m.: Lismore v. Modeligo; Tuesday, April 19th, at 6.30 p.m.: Clonea v. Lismore. U14 A – Tuesday, April 12th, at 6.30 p.m.: Lismore v. St. Anne’s; Tuesday, April 26th, at 6.30 p.m.: Modeligo v. Lismore. U12 Blitzes – April 16th at 10.30 a.m. venue TBC; April 30th at 10.30 a.m. Modeligo. U8/U10 Blitzes – April 9th Cappoquin time TBC. CLUB MEETING Lismore Camogie Club will hold their club committee meeting on this Thursday, April 7th, in the GAA Club House at 8.30 p.m. All committee members required to attend.

Waterford Grade F All-Ireland Winning Team.

Waterford Badminton Association WATERFORD CLAIM ALL-IRELAND TITLE On Saturday last the Waterford Grade F team travelled to the University of Limerick to take part in the All-Ireland Inter-County Team Finals event. Having being crowned Munster Championships back in February the team had put in a huge effort in their preparations for the All Ireland Final. Their opponents on Saturday were Connacht champions Galway and the Leinster champions Wexford. Waterford first faced Galway, and got off to a great start winning the game 7-2. Wexford also defeated Galway meaning the deciding match would be between our near neighbours Wexford. The team were fully focused stepping on court for this game, and were greatly encouraged by their travelling support on the day. The games were extremely close and Waterford were unfortunate to see themselves go 3-1 down after the four doubles games, narrowly losing out in three sets in both the ladies games and first men. Sean Dalton and James Power claimed the teams first

point with a very impressive display in their mens game. Next on court were the singles games with Waterford and Wexford claiming one game each, giving Wexford a 4-2 lead going into the mixed games and only needing one more win. The Waterford mixed pairings knew the challenge that lay ahead, but the team were confident in their abilities and encouraged each other through every point. Waterford leveled the match at 4-4 with two great victories in the first two mixed games. Our third mixed pairing of Tiarnan and Ellie carried the hopes of the team, the young pairing remained extremely calm throughout on court and clenched an enthralling first set 26-24. Wexford staged a comeback to take the second set and bring the match a third set. With some words of wisdom from team manager Garvan the Waterford duo gained the upper hand in the set and maintained their lead throughout to take the game 21-13 much to the delight of their very nervous team mates and supporters. Joyous scenes were visible on court as the reality set in that Waterford had claimed

a much coveted All-Ireland title. It has been an excellent year for the team, having first claimed the Munster title and then adding to it the AllIreland. A huge congratulations to the team for their efforts and achievements throughout the year. Many thanks to Garvan who took on the role of manager with the team this year and showed great leadership and encouragement throughout all the team's games. Thanks also to Eoin Walsh who coached the team in the run-up to the final. A special mention to our supporters on the day who gave the team the encouragement they needed to get over the end line. Team captain Rachel Walsh accepted the cup on behalf of the victorious Waterford team. Team: Tiarnan Lawlor, Ellie Power, Jo Murphy, Jennifer Murphy (Lady Lane), Rachel Walsh, Natalie Brown, Adee Ali (Kilmac), Shane O'Mahoney (Tourin), Sean Dalton, James Power (Tourneena). Team Manager: Garvan Dunford. MUNSTER DOUBLES AND MIXED Best of luck to our players taking part in the Munster Doubles and Mixed Events in

UL on Sunday next, April 10th. Hopefully there will be some Waterford success on the day. MIXED LEAGUES This week sees the semifinals of the mixed leagues take place, with those who topped their league waiting anxiously to see who their opponents will be. The Grade C final sees Lismore 1 take on Waterford 1. Grade D/E final will be played between Waterford 2 and Kilmac 1. Grade F: Kilmac 2 have booked their place in the final and will face the winners of Lismore 2 and Tourin 1. Grade G: Ballyduff 1 have qualified for the final and will play the winners of Rathgormack 1 and Kilmac 3. Grade H: Rathgormack 2 secured their place in the decider and await the victors of Ballyduff 2 and Kilmac 4. AGM A reminder that our AGM will take place in Lawlors Hotel, Dungarvan, on Monday, April 18th, at 8.00 p.m. It would be great to see a large crowd in attendance to reflect on a successful year for Waterford badminton and begin preparations for next year.

Cappoquin Snooker and Billiards WILLIE GALLAGHER MEMORIAL HOTS UP We had some fantastic games of snooker last week in the Willie Gallagher Memorial Cup. Ben O’Keeffe has had two mighty wins over Brendan Walsh and our Jameson cup champion John McGrath and he is into our semi-final where he will face the second Brendan Walshe who had a fine win over Michael Casey. Rhiney Walsh had a fine win over Martin Reddy to set up a semi-final with Pat Fitzgerald who beat Donnacha McGrath and their semi-final produced a fabulous game which Pat won 3-2 after Rhiney had raced into a two nil lead. As we get to the end of our season we have seen some great games and this tournament would really make Willie Gal proud as every game has been fiercely competitive. We hope to have the final of this tournament next week and whoever

comes through we should have a very tight final. JACK McCARTHY MEMORIAL BILLIARDS CUP The draw for this season’s Jack McCarthy Memorial Billiards Cup has thrown up some interesting ties. With only six entries we will have two quarter finals and one semi-final. The full draw is Pat Fitzgerald v. Donnacha McGrath with the winner playing the winner of Rhiney Walsh and Michael Casey. The semi-final will see Martin Reddy face Jameson champion John McGrath and we should be in for some very interesting games. It's hoped to play this tournament off one night next week. ARE YOU RETIRED AND FANCY A GAME? For all the retired people of the area we now have a very good group of

retired lads who meet every week for a game of Snooker. These lads have started only a few weeks ago and have 10/12 meeting each week to play a few games. They are having a great bit of fun every week and it is great to see them making use of the hall. EVERYBODY WELCOME FOR A GAME This season we have decided that you don't have to be a member to come in for a few games of snooker or billiards. For the past number of seasons there has been a presumption that you had to be a member of the club to play games in the hall. Well we can now confirm to everyone that the hall is there for anyone who wants to play games any night its open. We hope to see people of the area avail of this opportunity and make use of these fantastic table and facility.

GENERAL SPORT

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Former British Rallying legend leads over 200 cars to Dungarvan BRITISH Rally legend Russell Brookes was reunited with the famous Andrews heat for hire cars he drove in over 3 decades of international rallying. Russell Brookes the former British rally driver led the

Copper Coast Challenge this weekend which saw over 200 cars descend on the Gold Coast Holiday, Golf & Sports Resort. Brookes won the British Rally Championship with a Ford Escort RS1800 in 1977 and

Former British Rally driver Russell Brooks takes off from the Gold Coast.

with an Opel Manta 400 in 1985. In 1978, he won the Rally New Zealand, a round of the FIA Cup for Drivers, the predecessor to the World Championship for Drivers. In the World Rally Championship, he finished on the podium of his home event, the RAC Rally, three times in a row from 1977 to 1979. The Classic car show and 101 mile charity drive along the famous Copper Coast saw hundreds of car enthusiasts arrive in Dungarvan on Sunday. Visitors travelled from Northern Ireland, the British Isles and France to participate in the event. The Gold Coast was a hive of activity with the Wexford Sports and Classic Car Club co-ordinating the event.

Group of supporters pictured in Donnybrook to support Niamh Briggs and the Irish Women's Rugby team in their game against Scotland.

Top Prize for Finisk River Riders S.O.C. WHAT a day for our Club..... Every member who came out to celebrate Saint Patrick's Parade were in such great spirits that it must have impressed the judges. They rewarded their club with a top prize. Congratulations to Finisk River Riders for their continuous success in the club.

But like all great clubs they have no time to relax as their first regional games are been held 28th April and 5th May in Clonshire, Limerick. So every training session is so important, as they represent their county each time. So watch this space for more successful results.

Desmond Curran, Michael Landers, Christopher Sealy, Patrick Buckley, David Tobin, Aine Supple and Liam Mahoney.

SAINT PATRICK'S DAY WALK TO SLIABH NA mBAN. LEADER BRIAN WICKHAM The Club made its annual climb up the fabled Sliabh na mBan on St. Patrick’s Day. All 33 walkers made it to the top where we sang a few verses of "Sliabh na mBan". The weather was very favourable and the views fantastic. We made our way down and headed to the grounds of Kilcash Castle where we dined on delicious fare washed down by most welcome cups of hot tea and coffee. After our picnic we repaired to the local pub for further refreshments. A great day was had by all. SLIABH na nBAN is a mountain which is situated North West of CarrickOn-Suir and North East of Clonmel in County Tipperary. It stands at 721 metres (2,365 feet). Sitting at the western end of a range of low hills, Sliabh na mBan is a striking conical mass, offering a dramatic view from the top over the Counties of Tipperary, Kilkenny and Waterford. Much of its lower slopes is

wooded. A low hill attached to Sliabh na mBan known as Carrigmaclea (Carraigmoclear) was the site of battle during the Irish Rebellion of 1797. There are two prehistoric Cairns-one at the very top and the other is on a lower summit to the north east known as "Sheegouna" from the Irish Si Ghamhnai - meaning "Fairy mound of the heifers" SEEFIN WALK - MARCH 13th Report by Derbhile Graham Walk Leader - Ann Mangan March did indeed prove to be a month of many weathers for the 20 walkers that headed up Seefin on Sunday, March 13th. We started off in soft Spring sunshine encountered patches of snow and finished in a fog. Ann skilfully led the "troops" home through woods and fields and over a stream which most walkers negotiated successfully. Thanks Ann for a great walk that stretched the limbs but didn't over tax. UPCOMING EVENTS CUNNIGAR CROSSING - SUNDAY, JUNE 5th: This popular annual event to help raise funds for the Dungarvan Lions

West Waterford Hunter Trials at Boulta THE hunter trial season is now coming to an end but one of the early events this year was the West Waterford Hunt Hunter Trials which took place on the 20th March. Hunter trials involve horse and riders competing in a time trial over a distance of two to three miles in a simulated cross country course. This type of event is more often seen on TV at venues like Badminton and closer to home at Camphire. Three day events are a more formal event but the cross country section takes its origins from the hunting field and hunter trials. Not all competitors are members of hunts and these events are open to all. The venue for the event was Boulta Gallops and for non-hunting equestrians this facility is open throughout the year, except when a full event is being

staged, to school both horse and rider over obstacles of varying difficulty and height. This year’s course was designed and constructed by Andrew Lee and Ger Mulcahy and family. The course rode very well with good ground conditions despite the extraordinarily wet winter. With plenty of S bends in the design, riders had to take care not to overshoot fences, which tested not just co-ordination of horse and rider but technical assessment of the course to achieve the best time. The first event left the starters at 12.30 p.m. with the pony pairs event followed by the pony singles. After a brief pause to give the announcer breathing space, the novice horse pairs and novice horse singles were followed by the teams of three event. The final event

was the Tom Curran and Sons Open Horse which saw a full course of spectators as the best in amateur cross country riders competed? The masters, committee and members of the West Waterford Hunt expressed their sincere thanks to all who supported helped and competed on the day. Mr. Mike Brown, Chairman of the West Waterford Hunt thanked in particular the sponsors who play such a vital part in supporting local clubs and organisations of all types. “Sponsors are vital and while national trading companies give generously to national charities it is the local business community that give the greatest support to local organisations” he stated. Neil Forde, Hon. Sec. West Waterford Hunt Competing in the Tom Curran and Sons Open event.

Club will be taking place on Sunday, 5th June. Meeting at TSB Car Park at 11.50 a.m. Following the walk, we will go to Tig An Cheoil Pub for refreshments and the collection. Don't forget your change of boots. NAVIGATION COURSE CLUB MEMBERS A beginners guide to navigation will be held in April. Please contact a committee member for further information. WICKLOW WEEKEND APRIL 22nd - 24th The annual April weekend is to Larag this year and, will be on the 22nd-24th April. AUSTRIAN HOLIDAY SEPTEMBER The annual September holiday abroad is to the beautiful country of Austria. Dungarvan Hill Walking Club offers "FITNESS, FRIENDSHIP AND FUN". To find out more, contact www.dungarvanhillwalking.org Remember. NO BOOTS, NO WALK.

GENERAL SPORT

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

DUNGARVAN BOXING CLUB

Willie McDonagh is champion of Ireland

Pictured, from left: Irish riders Eddie Dunbar, Martyn Irvine and Bryan McCrystal at the launch of the 2016 An Post Rás which will begin on Sunday, May 22nd, at Dublin Castle and finish on Sunday, May 29th, in Skerries, Co. Dublin. [©INPHO/Billy Stickland]

2016 An Post Rás Route Promises Great Suspense

Dungarvan to play host to Stage Six finish BEGINNING at Dublin Castle and totalling over 1200 kilometres, the route of the 2016 An Post Rás was unveiled with Dungarvan set to be the destination for stage six of the famous race. This year’s edition of the race will travel anti-clockwise around Ireland with stage finishes in Multyfarnham, Charleville, Dingle, Sneem, Clonakilty, Dungarvan and Baltinglass before the customary finale in Skerries. In total, the race features 25 climbs, with the category one ascents of Conor Pass, Ballaghisheen Pass and Mount Leinster the toughest of those. However, they won’t be the only obstacle; rolling roads and strong winds will also play a part in the outcome, as will the tactics and aggression of those fighting for the jerseys and stage honours. Announcing the route for the May 22nd to 29th race in Dublin’s GPO, An Post Rás Race Director, Tony Campbell believes stage six in to Dungarvan will play a crucial role in deciding the outcome of the overall general classification. “The race is going over all the back roads around north County Cork. It is a very, very rolling day and while there are only three categorised climbs, it is a very sticky stage. The only time the guys will get a straight run on flat roads is from Lismore to Dungarvan. I

don’t expect the bunch to come into Dungarvan together. This year has some big climbs but is also similar in profile to the 2015 edition, and should lead to some really exciting racing. There are an awful lot of rolling roads, and these will wear people down over the course of the week. It will be unpredictable which will make it a thrilling display.” Former World Track Champion, Martyn Irvine, was on hand to launch this year’s route alongside top Irish riders Eddie Dunbar and Bryan McCrystal. Irvine, who recently announced his retirement from the sport, believes the county riders will be licking their lips when they see the route. “The Rás is unlike any other race in the world. On one side you have the international riders coming from abroad and on the other you have amateur riders here who train on this terrain all year round chomping at the bit for a win. We saw it with the likes of Ian Richardson and Bryan McCrystal last year; they were putting it to the best riders from around the globe on every stage and it was great to see. I’m sure this year, after seeing the route, there will be Irish guys in the mix.” After leaving Dublin Castle on Sunday, May 22nd, the 64th edition of the An Post

Rás will officially begin with the drop of the flag in Clonee. The opening stage to Multyfarnham is 144.6 kilometres in length and features An Post Hotspot Sprints in Bohermeen, Kells and on the first passage of the finish line in Multyfarnham. Each of these sprints offer time bonuses which will count towards the first general classification, while the first King of the Mountains jersey will be awarded on the basis of the third category climb at Lough Crew. Details of the international teams set to join this year’s An Post Rás will be released over the coming months. The An Post Chain Reaction Sean Kelly team has already committed to participating. 2016 AN POST RÁS ROUTE (UCI 2.2, MAY 22ND – MAY 29TH) Stage 1, Sunday, May 22: Dublin Castle to Multyfarnham (144.6 kilometres) Stage 2, Monday, May 23: Mullingar to Charleville (183.7 kilometres) Stage 3, Tuesday, May 24: Charleville to Dingle (133.2 kilometres) Stage 4, Wednesday, May 25: Dingle to Sneem (162.8 kilometres) Stage 5, Thursday, May 26: Sneem to Clonakilty (148.3 kilometres) Stage 6, Friday, May 27: Clonakilty to Dungarvan (159.1 kilometres)

Stage 7, Saturday, May 28: Dungarvan to Baltinglass (155 kilometres) Stage 8, Sunday, May 29: Kildare to Skerries (148.4 kilometres) Stage 6, Friday, May 27th: Clonakilty to Dungarvan (159.1 kilometres): Things appear flatter on stage six, with the climbing limited to a trio of category three ascents. The first of these is at Windy Gap (km. 35.6), with the second after the towns of Coachford, Donoghmore and Mallow. The climb of Rathcormack Mountain (km. 94.7) leads the riders on to Aghern, Conna and Curraglas prior to the day’s third ascent, Knockroe (km. 127.8). However, there are many draggy roads too, making things tougher than they seem on paper. The finale will see the riders hurtle through Lismore and Cappoquin before the final sprint into Dungarvan. An Post Rás Race Director Tony Campbell’s assessment: “The race is going over all the back roads around north County Cork. It is a very, very rolling day and while there are only three categorised climbs, it is a very sticky stage. The only time the guys will get a straight run on flat roads is from Lismore to Dungarvan. I don’t expect the bunch to come into Dungarvan together.”

DUNGARVAN Boxing Club was celebrating its newest Irish champion last weekend when 12 year old Willie McDonagh in only his second year of boxing overcame the odds and was crowned the boy 2 champion of Ireland at 52kg. Having won his county and Munster titles earlier in the year, Willie and his coaches James Keoghan and Killian Walsh travelled to the National Stadium in Dublin last Thursday for a semi-final match up against last year's Irish champion Peter Maughan from Ballyhaunis B.C. This was a big ask for McDonagh. However, Willie has trained very hard all year and went to work straight away on his more experienced opponent and ground out a solid win. This put him in a final on Saturday against Darragh Redden from the highly respected Saint David's B.C. from Naas. The reigning Lenister champion. This was going to be another tough bout as Redden had stopped his

Willie McDonagh opponent in his semi final inside a round. Nothing was going to get in the way of the Dungarvan mans dream of being Irish champion though and three hard fought rounds later it was Willie McDonagh’s hand that was raised and announced Winner and

champion of all Ireland! Dungarvan Boxing Club would like to congratulate Willie and his coaches on their achievement and all their hard work all year and look forward to seeing what else is in store for them down the road.

Gloves and Glory 4 DEISE Kickboxing Dungarvan brings International kickboxing to Dungarvan with the 4th instalment of its Gloves And Glory fight series. On April 9th Lawlors Hotel Dungarvan will be the venue for Gloves And Glory 4. On the bill are 18 top fights with 5 IKF Irish Titles and an IKF European Title. 11 fighters from Dungarvan will compete on the bill as well as fighters from Limerick, Tipperary, Wicklow, Waterford, Galway, Antrim, Donegal, Clare, Carlow, Cavan and France. Fight fans will be treated to a top night of Full Contact, Low Kick and K1 kickboxing. Amongst the 5 Irish Titles Dungarvan’s Sharon Lynch will be fighting Antrims Gail Snoddy in an eagerly awaited

rematch. The main event of the evening will see Dungarvan’s 4 time Irish champion and 2014 unified world championships gold medallist Brett Egan (pictured) defend his IKF European Title against teak tough opponent Ghouchmi Mustapha from France. Other Dungarvan fighters on the bill include: Junior World Champion Rhianna Lynch, Tiernan Dee Ryan, Scott Lennon, Adam Coleman, Connor McGrath, Paul Wright, Jamie Walsh and Anna Damazyn. The action kicks-off at 6.30 pm with doors open at 6 pm. With full bar, DJ, MC, ring girls and the usual full house of vocal fight fans this promises to be a great nights

action. Anyone looking for more info or tickets which are selling fast can contact Vinny on 0834218676 or mail deisekickboxing@gmail.com

Waterford clubs to take part in AVIVA’s Munster Mini Rugby Festival DUNGARVAN RFC and Waterpark RFC are two of the 25 clubs that will take part in Aviva’s Mini Rugby provincial festival in Munster on the 10th April. The Aviva Munster Mini Rugby Festival will take place at UL Bohemians in Limerick and will feature clubs from across the province, including 3 guest clubs from Connacht; Galway Corinthians, Portumna and Oughterard. This is the first year that there will be an Aviva Mini Rugby Festival in each province, expanding the amount of teams that can get involved. Each team that competes at one of the provincial Festivals will be in with the chance to play at the Aviva National Mini Rugby Festival at the Aviva Stadium on the 30th April. The Festival gives boy’s and girls’ teams a chance to develop their skills against clubs from across the province, learning new ways

to play in a non-competitive and fun environment. Each of the Minis on the day will receive a certificate signed by Jamie Heaslip, Ireland captain Rory Best and Robbie Henshaw and an Aviva Mini Rugby Festival wristband. Mark Russell, Aviva Sponsorship Manager, said; “We are delighted to be able to expand the reach of the Mini Rugby Festivals this year to ensure a Festival in every province. This makes it easier for clubs to get involved and shows the growing appeal of rugby from a young age. The Festivals not only gives kids the chance to learn new skills and enjoy playing the game but it gives them a glimpse of what it’s like to play at the Aviva Stadium and hopefully this will inspire the next group of Robbie Henshaws and Jamie Heaslips!” For more information on the Aviva Mini Rugby Provincial Festivals then log on to www.irishrugby.ie/avivaminis or email avivaminis@irishrugby.ie

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Cunnigar Pitch and Putt QUIZ NIGHT Get your tables ready for our annual quiz night which will be held in Minnies Bar, Abbeyside, on 22nd April at 8.30 pm. Tables of 4 at €5 per person. EVERYONE WELCOME TO COME AND HAVE A FUN NIGHT. FUNDRAISER FOR THE CLUB We are looking for unwanted clothes, bags, shoes, bed linen, towels, curtains, belts and soft toys, also laptops and phones with leads are accepted so anyone with anything to give us can tell a committee member or bring it to our club house. This was a great fundraiser for our club last year so start sorting out your cupboards its very much appreciated in helping us to maintain our club and course in the tip top condition that it is well known for. DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Inter-Club Competition Closing date 13th April Ladies and Gents Munster Matchplay Qualifiers 18th-29th April, Finals at Lakeside 14th-15th May. Chairperson's (Corinne McGee) Day. 29th May tee-off between 10.30 am-12.30 pm. Ladies (Marie Forde) and Gents (Liam Simms) Captains Day. 5th June tee-off between 10.30 am-12.30 pm. SCRATCH CUP 1st, 2nd, 3rd JULY This year we are holding a Scotch Foursomes on the Friday, a 3 ball scramble on the Saturday and our Scratch Cup will be on the Sunday. President's (Michael Ahearne) Day 14th August tee-off between 10.30 am-12.30 pm. PUBS OPEN LEAGUE Pubs Open League will be starting 16th August, so get your teams ready more details to follow. COMMITTEE MEETING The next committee meeting is Thursday, 7th April at 7.30 pm. DID YOU KNOW COURSE ETIQUETTE When others are playing their shot, do not make noise/talking, or do not stand to close to, or behind them. BANK HOLIDAY EASTER MONDAY TOURNAMENT There was a great turnout for our annual Easter Egg Tournament, with everyone finding a chicken hidden around the course. Winners of the big eggs were: 1st Nett Maura Ryan, Paddy Noonan 1st Gross Marie Forde, Aiden O'Rourke 2nd Nett Corinne McGee, Stephen Donovan 2nd Gross Carmel Fitzgerald, Patsy Hackett SATURDAY TOURNAMENTS Our competitions are now underway. Names to be in for 1 pm, tee-off 1.30 pm sharp. No game this week due to weather. The inexperienced player on each team will now mark the card (this is to get used to marking cards) WEDNESDAY LADIES TOURNAMENTS Wednesday games will be held in our club. Names to be in for 10 am tee-off 10.30 am

sharp. Nett Mary O'Neill, Marie Forde Gross Cait Mulcahy, Breda Foley Tuesday Gents Singles Tournaments We are now holding Gents Singles on Tuesdays names in at 5pm, tee off 5.30pm36 holes. All gents are welcome to play in this new competition. LAST WEEK’S RESULTS Cancelled due to hail stones Hole In One Competition 2016 The hole in one competition is now underway as we have begun our competitions. GENTS Liam Simms has now got 2 hole in ones (in one game) and Patsy Hackett has 1 for the Gents section. LADIES Mary O'Neill has 1 hole in ones for the Ladies section. Men's Foursomes Competition The finals of this Stablesford competiton will be played soon. Owen Simms and Aiden O'Rourke v Paddy Noonan and Liam Hansbury Play-off for 3rd is between Michael Ahearne and Liam Simms v Paul Healy and Michael Delaney LADIES MATCHPLAY The following ladies to reach the semi-finals are: Corinne McGee v Kathleen Foran Mary Walsh v Breda O'Donnell This game will be played soon. BONUS NUMBER The winner of the bonus number 34 was Michael Ahearne. 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. 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 for them and giving them to a committee member. When using your fob please remember to close the gate when entering and leaving the course. 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. PITCH AND PUTT IS FUN! Remember pitch and putt is only a game so go out and enjoy it. T.shirts, caps and gloves for sale in clubhouse.

GENERAL SPORT

CYCLESPORTS GP After months of planning the biggest day in the club’s year finally arrived on Sunday last. The Cyclesports GP attracted hundreds of cyclists to the town to compete in one of the 8 races being held. The main event was the A1/2 race for the O’Doherty cup run over 3 laps of the Millstreet circuit for a total distance of 110 kilometres. A breakaway group formed during the race which was to stay away and contest the finish. Three Dungarvan riders made the split, John Hodge, Mick Aherne and Damian Travers. At the finish it was local rider Stephen Murray of Velo Strata 3 who took the win ahead of Stephen Shanahan of Asea and Robin Kelly of Waterford Racing Club. John Hodge came home 4th, Mick Aherne was 6th with Damian Travers 8th. Marc Flavin, Daryl Kearns and Aidan Connell finished in the bunch. The A3/Junior race was run over the same distance. At the finish Cathal Purcell from the Carrick Wheelers won on his own ahead of Ciaran Moore of DeRonde who was just ahead of the depleted bunch. Aaron Kearney of NRPT won the dash to the line from the bunch to take 3rd. Ray Dwyer and Pat Walsh finished in the bunch and Pat Kenealy retired after 2 laps due to a bodily malfunction! The A4 race was over 2 laps for a distance of just over 70 kilometres. This race had the biggest number of local riders competing. In the lead up to the race one man was talked about as favourite to take the honours and he didn't disappoint! Launching his move inside the final 500 metres George McLeod had plenty of time to look around and get his hands in the air crossing the line. All the more impressive is that it was only his 3rd open race. Well done George. The other Dungarvan riders taking part were Patrick Power, Benny Flynn, Richie Halpin, Anthony Dwyer, Andrew Hickey, Liam Moore and Kieran Cahill who all finished with no trouble. The ladies race was over 1 lap of the circuit of just over 35 kilometres. Two riders broke clear of the field in the closing kilometres of this race never to be seen again. In the run up to the finish local woman Emma Walsh riding for Waterford Racing club proved strongest winning well from Autumn Collins of Starley Racing. The sprint for third was won by Claudia Lane Mary from Waterford Racing club from our own Niamh O Donovan. Also run on the day was a full programme of underage racing for U-12,14 and 16 racers. The Under 12 race was won by Conal Scully of Carlow CC with Dungarvan CC's Aoibhe Power 6th. First unplaced girl was Dungarvan CC's Elia Tutty. The Under 14 race was won by Tom Moriarty of Kanturk CC who barely pipped Dungarvan CC's Mark McGarry. Finally, the Under 16 race was won by Kieran O’Sullivan from Comeragh CC. So a great days racing was had despite the weather. A big thanks and well done goes to John Coleman and his team for all the work put into organising the days racing. Thanks also to the Gardai for their help in ensuring the safety of all the riders and ensuring we had clear roads to race on. Thanks also to the local Civil Defence for being on standby for first aid and as far as I know they thankfully had a quite day. Thanks to all the marshalls from our own club, Dungarvan Triathlon Club and West Waterford Athletic club who stood out in the cold and rain to ensure the safe passage for the riders. Thanks also to Dungarvan Soccer club for the use of their clubhouse and grounds as race HQ. Thanks to the O’Doherty family for providing the cup which the winner of

the A1/2 race received. Finally a massive thank you to our sponsor Paddy Morrissey of Cyclesports for proving sponsorship again this year. Following the race a very enjoyable evening was held in Minnies for club members who rode or helped out at the race. We are grateful to club sponsor Pat O’Brien for hosting this event and providing finger food for all. There was plenty of race post mortems being done by all accounts! FULL RESULTS: A1/2 O'Doherty Cup 1: Stephen Murray Velo.Strata 3 2: Stephen Shanahan Asea 3: Robin Kelly Waterford Racing Club 4: John Hodge Dungarvan Cycling Club 5: James Blanchfield Panduit Carrick Wheelers 6: Michael Aherne Dungarvan Cycling Club 7: Shane O’Neill Aquablue 8: Damian Travers Dungarvan Cycling Club Unplaced A2 Hugh Mulhearne Panduit Carrick Wheelers A3/Junior 1: Cathal Purcell Panduit Carrick Wheelers 2: Ciaran Moore DeRonde Cork 3: Aaron Kearney NRPT 4: Robbie Walsh Cork County CC 5: Jones Greer Cork County CC 6: Fionn Jordan Slaney CC 7: Daniel Bresnan Tipperary Wheelers 8: Robert Forrest Blarney Cycling Club A4 1: George McLeod Dungarvan Cycling Club 2: Eoin Hickey Youghal Cycling Club 3: Willie Fitzharris Velo Strata 3 4: Jim Wall Rosbury Racing 5: Patrick Ryan Tipperary Wheelers 6: David Dempsey Rosbury Racing 7: Brendan Dunne Gorey Cycling Club 8: Kieran Merriman Waterford Racing Club Ladies race 1: Emma Walsh Waterford Racing Club 2: Autumn Collins Starley Racing 3: Claudia Lane Mary Waterford Racing Club 4: Niamh O’Donovan Dungarvan Cycling Club 5: Martina Cronin Waterford Racing Club 6: Diane Behan Waterford Racing Club Under 12 1: Conal Scully Carlow CC 2: Shane Galvin Killarney CC 3: Aona O’Shea Killorglin CC 4: Ewan McConville Kanturk CC 5: Aoibhe Power Dungarvan CC Unplaced girl: Elia Tutty Dungarvan CC Under 14 1: Tom Moriarty Kanturk 2: Mark McGarry Dungarvan CC 3: Fionn Desmond Galtee Wheelers 4: Steven Crowley Comeragh CC 5: Sean Barrett Tralee Manor West 6: Damian Jon Him Nenagh CC Unplaced girl: Lucy O’Donnell Under 16 1: Kieran O’Sullivan Comeragh CC 2: Kieran Goggins Tralee CC 3: Will Ryan Kanturk CC 4: Conor Coleman Comeragh CC 5: Fionn O’Dwyer Raparel 6: Robert Keane Carlow CC CLUB SPINS There was no club spins out this weekend which must be a first! Saturday was a washout and with the club's open race on Sunday all hands were on deck helping out there. Normal service resumes next weekend. Also now that we have the brighter evenings there are club spins running on Tuesday evenings from Kilrush at 6:30 p.m. The aim is to be back for 8 pm and

George McLeod winning the A4 race as the evenings get a little brighter the start time will move to 7 pm. The pace will be around group 3 pace but should be fine for group 4 riders over the shorter distance, especially if they commit to riding each Tuesday. There will be 4 routes of around 50kms used in rotation the same as last year. Cyclists are urged to wear high vis clothing and to have front and rear lights. RAS MUMHAN Continuing on from last weeks report on the first 3 days of Ras Mumhan we continue with the final days report. Stage 4: The final day calls for a flat stage – the Killorglin, Beaufort, Killorglin Loop. This stage used this loop three times before moving to the smaller town circuit for nine laps. The laps of the finishing circuit make up about one third of the total stage length. The finishing circuit made for a very spectator-friendly piece of racing and attracted a big crowd to Killorglin. While the climb up the hill in Killorglin is categorised on each occasion except the last, it didn't have a serious affect on the mountains jersey given that the two previous days were much more likely to decide who will wear that jersey at the finish. The total stage length is approximately 117km. After 3 days of savage racing in horrendous conditions the final stage was played out in sunshine, light winds and mild temperatures. The pace was steady enough to start out before a 12 man group broke clear. They worked hard to open a gap while the bunch rode steady behind with the team of the yellow jersey keeping the gap manageable. Then on the finishing circuit in Killorglin the pace really picked up with 3 riders going ahead from the original 12. They stayed away with the other being swallowed up by the main bunch. The bunch split up with the hill up through Killorglin each lap doing the damage. Mark Dowling took the win just 15 seconds of the chasing bunch. John Hodge, Marc Flavin and Aidan Connell came home with the main bunch with Damian Travers and Daryl Kearns coming in with a small group 4:38 back. Overall Chris McGlinchey who held the yellow jersey from day 1 won by 1:26 from Ali McCauley with Bryan McCrystal 3rd at 1:27. John Hodge finished 23rd at 8:43, Marc Flavin 42nd at 26:26, Damian Travers 77th at 1:02:38, Aidan Connell 80th at 1:04:58 and Daryl Kearns 95th at 1:14:12. Dungarvan CC finished up 10th of the 23 teams. So a great weekend for the team with all 5 riders finishing what will go down as one of the hardest editions of Ras Mumhan ever! Well done lads and enjoy a few days rest.

All the lads want to thank their support team of Mario Flavin and John Coleman for their help over the weekend. They really appreciate that they gave up the Easter weekend holiday to provide the support. PREDICT YOUR TIME TT With the bright evenings and the hope of better weather our Spring/Summer of cycling gets underway on Wednesday, April 13th with the first of the predict your time TT's. The first week is from the Welcome Inn to Cappoquin Chickens. Full details of times and sign on will be posted here next week and also on the club Facebook page. DEISE GREENWAY The Deise Greenway is really starting to take shape ahead of its planned opening in August. Already it is being used by walkers, runners and cyclists mostly at weekends when no work is being carried out. There is still some work to be done on fencing etc and people using the greenway are reminded they are doing so at their own risk. Cyclists are asked to show due care to walkers and runners and to remember that the greenway is for leisure cycling and not suitable for cycling at racing pace. Club members are especially asked to abide by this as we set an example to others. CYCLING NEWS With the An Post Ras only eight weeks away the first of the teams travelling have been announced. America, Austrailia and Denmark will be represented with former grand tour riders in their ranks. With a stage finish into Dungarvan and a club team taking part also this years race will be of extra interest to locals. Over the coming weeks we will have more detailed information on the stages and profiles of our riders taking part. Sunday last saw the second of the big classics taking place with the running of the Tour of Flanders. It also marks the beginning of a month of big races taking place around Belgium, Holland and France known as the Spring classics. Run over 250 kilometres and dotted with numerous climbs, some cobbled, the Tour of Flanders is a tough race to win. In fact it is the only classic that our own Sean Kelly never won but he did finish second on two occasions. On the day the world champion Peter Sagan put in a super performance worthy of a world champion to win the race after a solo break away. CONTACT US Our Facebook page has plenty of updates and photos so feel free to have a look. We are also on Twitter and have a club webpage www.dungarvancc.com. If you want anything included in the notes please e-mail it to me at kenealyp@yahoo.ie.

TALKING HORSES

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 8 April, 2016

Talking Horses Girlfrommilan takes GAIN Mares’ Final at Ballynoe

Upcoming Fixtures Leopardstown – Wednesday, 6th April (First Race 3.25) Limerick – Thursday, 7th April (First Race 2.00) Dundalk - Friday, 8th April (First Race 6.00) Wexford - Friday, 8th April (First Race 4.30) Gowran Park – Saturday, 9th April (First Race 1.20) Leopardstown – Sunday, 10th April (First Race 2.10) Tramore – Sunday, 10th April (First Race 1.50)

THE GAIN Mares’ Final was the main attraction at Ballynoe Point-to-Point on Sunday last. Eight went to post for the race which had a generous bonus of €2,000 for the winner. The Declan Queally trained Girlfrommilan in the colours of Eileen O’Mahony from Knockraha took the spoils after leading from the penultimate fence under Ciaran Fennessy to beat Denis Ahern’s Goodthynemilan by three lengths.

Breeders’ Cup winner scores on Irish debut BOBBY’S Kitten, winner of the Breeders’ Cup Turf Sprint in 2014, was successful on his first start for Dermot Weld when running away with the Listed Cork Stakes over six furlongs at the Mallow track on Easter Monday. Ridden by Pat Smullen, the five-year-old came home an eight and a half-length winner and is likely to step up in trip on his next start. Damian English, who trains in Naul, County Dublin, was successful at the course on Saturday and he was back in the winners’ enclosure when Bluesbreaker took the 6f handicap under Rory Cleary. Declan McDonogh was in the saddle as the Andrew Slattery-trained A Few Dollars More took the 5f handicap. County Cork-based trainers won the remaining five races. Theatre Princess won the mares’ hunters chase for Kanturk-based Michael Winters and was giving his rider 20year-old Chris O’Donovan his first winner on the racecourse. Harry The Lemmon took the maiden hunters chase for Newmarket’s Turlough O’Connor who both trained and rode the winner. Castlelyons trainer Rodger Sweeney and Richie Harding combined to win the Jack Tyner Memorial Hunters Chase with Salsify while Sean O’Brien, who trains in Kilworth, was responsible for Impulsive Star who took the point-to-point bumper under Ciaran Fennessy. The mares’ point-to-point bumper went to Robert Tyner’s Don’t Kick Nor Bite who was giving Stephen O’Donovan his first racecourse winner.

Elliott double the highlight at Downpatrick GORDON Elliott continued on his winning ways at Downpatrick on Wednesday where he saddled two winners. Roger Loughran rode his first winner for the County Meath trainer when successful on Buyer Beware in the 2m2f maiden hurdle. Elliott followed up when the Bryan Cooperridden Le Grand Chene took the handicap chase. Grade 1 winning trainer Gavin Cromwell took the mares’ maiden hurdle with Midnight Theatre, a second winner in two days for Luke Dempsey. Des McDonogh and Ben Dalton landed the handicap hurdle with the well supported Maighnealta while Eoin Doyle’s The Winkler, despite a mistake three fences from home, ran out a good winner of the beginners’ chase under another high-flying conditional rider, Donagh Meyler. Although friendless in the betting, the Willie Mullinstrained Bel Sas emerged as the easiest of winners in the bumper. The 5/2 chance was ridden by Patrick Mullins.

BoyleSports Irish Grand National success for Morris and Ger Fox ROGUE Angel, successful in the Kerry National at Listowel last September landed one of the biggest prizes in National Hunt racing when winning the BoyleSports Irish Grand National at Fairyhouse on Easter Monday. Trained by Mouse Morris and ridden by Ger Fox, the eight-year-old was headed over the final fence by Bless The Wings but battled back bravely to deny Gordon Elliott and Ruby Walsh by a short-head. Owner JP McManus saw his colours carried to success in the first two races on the card. Slowmotion, trained by Aidan O'Brien and ridden by Barry Geraghty, ran out the impressive winner of the Grade 2 juvenile hurdle while the local rider was also in the saddle as Sutton Place overcame a mistake at the final flight to take the Grade 2 novice hurdle for Gordon Elliott. Dan Skelton and his brother Harry combined to win the Grade 2 hurdle with Value At Risk who ran out a good winner and may return to Ireland later in the month for the Punchestown festival. There was a second British-trained winner as Emily Gray took the Grade 3 mares’ chase for Kim Bailey and Jonathan Burke. To add to his big race win, Mouse Morris also took the 2m6f handicap hurdle with Just Cause who was ridden by Jack Kennedy while On The Shannon took the handicap chase for Oliver McKiernan and amateur rider Barry Brown. Willie Mullins drew a blank at the course on Easter Sunday but he landed the bumper with Blow By Blow who was a good winner under Patrick Mullins.

Smashing and Jonathan Burke wins the Webster Cup Chase (Grade 2) from Road To Riches at Navan.

[Patrick McCann]

Smashing win for Henry de Bromhead and Jonathan Burke HENRY de Bromhead and Jonathan Burke took the major honours at Navan on Saturday when Smashing landed a thrilling renewal of the Grade 2 Webster Cup. The seven-year-old went head-tohead with Road To Riches from the third last fence and just prevailed by half-a-length, with Foxrock coming from the clouds to finish a close up third. Tipped Up Harry recorded a back-toback course success when taking the

2m4f handicap chase for Enfield trainer Denise Foster and Robbie Power. Another Meath handler celebrating was Tony Martin who landed the 2m6f handicap hurdle with the Mark Walshridden Heathfield. Davy Russell had to be at his strongest to land the 2m maiden hurdle on the Adrian Keatleytrained Thebarrowman, the 1/2 favourite winning by half-a-length from the promising Stand Up And Fight. The opening mares’ maiden hurdle

went to Msmilan who got up in the dying strides to beat West Bridge by a neck for Jessica Harrington and Paddy Kennedy. Another 5lb claimer on the mark was Patrick Corbett who partnered the Willie Austin-trained All The Chimneys to a narrow success in the 2m handicap hurdle. Stuart Crawford’s Elusive Theatre made all the running and never saw another runner as he won the bumper under Jason McKeown.

Fashion, family days and fantastic racing on the cards at Ballinrobe BALLINROBE Racecourse has launched its 2016 season and with one extra meeting this year, it brings the total number of fixtures to ten. Prizemoney has increased by €150,000 to €950,000, setting a new record for the popular West of Ireland track. The fixtures will comprise eight National Hunt meetings and two Flat meetings including 12 feature races, each with prize-money in excess of €20,000. Ballinrobe’s season runs from April 15th through to September 20th and this year, four companies are sponsoring a full raceday. County Mayo resort, Breaffy House Resort & Spa has progressed from sponsoring a feature race to sponsoring a full National Hunt race card on the evening meeting on May 30th. One of the highlights of the season is the McHale Raceday on May

31st, with two feature races sponsored by local specialist farm machinery company, McHale. The McHale Mayo National and the McHale Coranna Handicap Hurdle are each worth €30,000, making them the most valuable races at Ballinrobe. After the success of last year’s event, local company, Vaughan Shoes will once again sponsor the ever-popular Ladies day on June 21st. A second fashion focussed event will be held on the evening of the Tote Raceday on July 18th which will include a Best Hat competition, sponsored by Caithriona King Milliner, a number of fashion shows with Catwalk Model Agency and a number of style talks. Stylist Marietta Doran will act as MC for this event. Family Day at Ballinrobe Racecourse takes place on July 19th, a meeting

which was very well-received by local families last year. In what is believed to be the first sponsorship of its kind in Ireland, Ballinrobe Races have been announced as the new sponsors of the Ballinrobe senior football team. “Ballinrobe Races is a communityminded body, and this sponsorship is a great way for us to support another organisation who do great work for the area,” said John Flannelly, Manager, Ballinrobe Racecourse. “This is a natural tie-up for us. Both bodies are around a long time. The GAA club in Ballinrobe was formed almost 130 years ago, and our history goes back even further – there has been horseracing in Ballinrobe for more than 230 years. Racing has taken place at our current venue since 1921.”

Fab four for British trainers as value tops at Fairyhouse BRITISH trainers brought their tally of winners at the Fairyhouse Easter Festival to four when Top Gamble landed the Grade 2 Normans Grove Chase at the County Meath venue on Tuesday. A second winner of the meeting for in-form Kerry Lee, Top Gamble ran out a cosy winner under Richard Johnson, giving the British champion jockey-elect his first winner in Ireland since the Willie Mullins-trained Devils Bit won at the charity raceday at Limerick in October, 2013. The father and son team of Philip and Luke Dempsey were on the mark with Mr Diablo who won the beginners’ chase in convincing fashion at odds of 2/5 favourite. Another market leader to score was Sydney Paget who got the better of Dantes King to win the hunters’ chase. Barry Geraghty had an Easter Festival to remember and he took the valuable novice handicap hurdle on the Edward Harty-trained Coney Island. The results could have been kinder to Willie Mullins over the three days but he combined with Ruby Walsh to win the 2m handicap hurdle with Clondaw Warrior. It was the champion jockey’s 100th winner in Ireland this season. Colm Murphy took the 3m1f handicap chase with the Robbie Power-ridden Cara’s Oscar while the bumper went to Miracle In Medinah who was ridden for Gordon Elliott by Luke McGuinness.