Dungarvan observer 9 2 2018 edition by Dungarvan Observer

DUNGARVAN

SOUTH-EAST

Vol. 105

OBSERVER Friday, 9th February, 2018 06

CAR & VAN HIRE

DUNGARVAN NISSAN Call us first for Van and Car Hire

9 SEATER AVAILABLE FOR HIRE 058 44888 info@southeastcarhire.com www.southeastcarhire.com

€2.00

GREENWAY SCOOPS AWARDS CENTRE PAGES

41 Grattan Square | Dungarvan | Co Waterford t (058) 41130 f (058) 41154 e murrayspharmacy@careplus.ie w www.careplus.ie

DRUGS MISUSE SPREAD ACROSS CITY & COUNTY Less of a distinction in substance abuse between urban and rural areas By Paul Mooney THERE is now less of a distinction across urban / rural areas in relation to substance misuse, according to a presentation made at the recent meeting of Waterford City and County Joint Policing Committee. Chris Purnell, Co-ordinator with the South East Regional Drugs and Alcohol Task Force (SERDATF) who gave the

‘

Alcohol remains biggest problem

presentation to the JPC meeting, said that in the past, illicit drug use was more urban-based, and was mostly heroin, which didn’t exist in rural areas to the same extent. “But over time there has been

- Chris Purnell, Co-ordinator, SERDATF less of a distinction between urban and rural. In rural areas there are significant levels of drug problems, such as prescribed medication and benzodiazepines,” he said. Green Party Senator, Grace

Ardmore Junior Hurling Captain Declan Prendergast and Niall Hennessy with the AIB All-Ireland Junior Hurling Cup. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

O’Sullivan, who attended the JPC meeting had queried if the Task Force was seeing patterns in substance misuse in urban / rural areas across Waterford and the South East. Mr. Purnell pointed out: “The

A l l - I re l a n d glor y! ARDMORE Junior Hurlers came home with the silverware last Sunday when they beat Wexford’s St. Mogues Fethard in the AIB All-Ireland Junior Hurling clash at Croke Park. It was a noted historic occasion as well, because Ardmore is the first Waterford club to achieve All-Ireland victory at Headquarters. It is a fabulous feat for the club which celebrated its 60th Anniversary last year. The match was ‘edge of the seat’ stuff in the tension-filled encounter and at one stage it looked like it would be a draw. While the Wexford side could have coped with Ardmore’s first two goals, it was the third goal in the second minute of the second period of extra time that gave the Déise seasiders the upper hand, placing them three points ahead. The final whistle marked Ardmore’s entry into the history books as the first Waterford club to bring home an All-Ireland Cup. Final score: Ardmore 3-11; St. Mogues Fethard 0-18. c SEE SPORTS SECTION FOR FULL MATCH REPORT AND PHOTOGRAPHS

areas in the country regarding substance misuse. “I wouldn’t say Waterford is particularly worse than any other area, but it certainly has a significant problem, as do many areas,” Mr. Purnell replied. “There are pockets of difficulty, but it would be the same as other counties,” he added.

’

biggest problem in substance misuse has always been and remains alcohol - that problem is spread across the State, in rural and urban areas”. Senator O’Sullivan asked how Waterford compares with other

c Reduced budget for Task Force impacting on delivery of services - See page 4 for more.

s n a i c i opt

SALE N O W O N 50% off up to

OPEN LATE THURSDAY - ‘TIL 8PM

058 45844

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

Yo u r Observer Three new ‘set down’ areas in Dungarvan S O Inside Town Centre Full enforcement due to begin next week this ‘ ’ week … -EAST SOUTH VAN HIRE

Vol. 105

N DUNGARVA

CAR &

NISSAN DUNGARVAN for Van

@DungarvanO bserv

Call us first Hire and Car

9 SEATER AVAILABLE FOR HIRE

BSERVER READ DRUGS MISUSE& SP UNTY CO TY CI SS RO AC 058 44888 carhire.com info@southeasttcarhire.com www.southeas

PORT

Vol. 105

Friday, 9th February,

2018

sport@dungarvano bserver.ie

€2.00

Friday, 9th

February, 2018 06

AWARDS GREENWAY SCOOPS

CENTRE PAGES

Dungarvan | Co Waterford 41 Grattan Square | 41154 t (058) 41130 f (058) s.ie w www.careplus.ie murrayspharmacy@careplu

27th ANNUAL JOHN TREACY 10 MILE A HUGE SUCCESS

Record field on

Pages 2 & 3

the streets of

Dungarvan

MORE CLINICAL ANTRIM TAKE THE POINTS IN CARRIGANORE Antrim

Waterford 0-10;

2-12.

Page 7

BALLINACOURTY THEIR ANCESTR WIN IN AL HOME

Ballinacourty

1-11; Nire 0-7.

Page 9

MARVELLOUS JUNIOR CUP RUN ENDS

Page 21

rural areas between urban and in substance abuse Less of a distinction st problem

regarding areas in the country substance misuse. Waterford is “I wouldn’t say than any other particularly worse a certainly has area, but it as do many significant problem,replied. areas,” Mr. Purnell pockets of SERDATF “There are Co-ordinator, less of a disit would be the THERE is now - Chris Purnell, difficulty, but urban / rural problem in substance counties,” he tinction across to substance the biggest been and same as other who attended misuse has always is added. areas in relation to a presenbetween O’Sullivan, had queried if the alcohol - that problem misuse, according the recent less of a distinction areas JPC meeting patterns in remainsacross the State, in rural budget for Task at c Reduced to the JPC meeting, urban and rural. In rural drug Task Force was seeing spread tation made delivery of City and presentation in urban / rural and urban areas”. levels of illicit drug impacting on substance misuse there are significant meeting of Waterford Policing said that in the past, 4 for more. asked how Force and the urban-based, and problems, such as prescribed areas across Waterford Joint Senator O’Sullivan with other services - See page County use was more benzocompares and which didn’t East. heroin, Waterford South mostly medication was Committee. out: “The to the same said. Co-ordinator Mr. Purnell pointed diazepines,” he Chris Purnell, exist in rural areas Grace East Regional Green Party Senator, extent. with the South there has been Task Force “But over time Drugs and Alcohol gave the who (SERDATF)

Alcohol remains

By Paul Mooney

bigge

A l l - I re l a n d glor y!

came home Junior Hurlers when they ARDMORE last Sunday with the silverwareMogues Fethard in the St. clash at beat Wexford’s Junior Hurling AIB All-Ireland as well, Croke Park. historic occasion It was a noted the first Waterford club is because Ardmore victory at to achieve All-Ireland which Headquarters. feat for the club year. It is a fabulous last 60th Anniversary seat’ stuff in celebrated its ‘edge of the The match was at one encounter and the tension-filled it would be a draw. like stage it looked side could have While the Wexford first two goals, it was coped with Ardmore’s minute of the in the second the third goal that gave the of extra time period placing second the upper hand, Déise seasiders ahead. them three points marked Ardmore’s The final whistle books as the first history an entry into the home to bring Waterford club All-Ireland Cup. 0-18. Final score: St. Mogues Fethard Ardmore 3-11; SECTION c SEE SPORTS REPORT FOR FULL MATCH S with the AIB and Niall HennessyByrne//Deise Sport] AND PHOTOGRAPH [Sean Declan Prendergast Hurling Captain Ardmore Junior Cup.

All-Ireland Junior

ans

optici

SALE NSEE PAGES 10 TO 16 O NOW50% off up to

Ardmore AIB GAA Junior Club Hurling All-Ireland champions

Y - ‘TIL 8PM OPEN LATE THURSDA

2017.

[Sean Byrne//Deise

Sport]

058 45844

ARDMORE ARE ALL -IRELAND CHAMPIONS

Hurling

SECTIONS .........................……………………………………... PAGES News .............................…………..……………………………….. 1–27 Classifieds ..........................…..……………………………….. 28–31 Waterford Greenway scoops awards …………………. 32–33 County News ...........………….………………………………...34-48 Schools ...................................................…………………... 49-57 Obituary .…….…………………………………………………….. 58-59

THREE new set down areas have been created in Dungarvan Town Centre which allows for motorists wanting to ‘nip’ into the bank or chemist for quick messages. Waterford City and County Council confirmed that the three areas are now highlighted with new signage in Grattan Square and allow for free parking for up to 15 minutes (without displaying a parking ticket), with a maximum stay of 15 minutes.

Currently, warnings are being issued to those motorists who are parking in the marked areas and overstaying the 15 minutes. Gabriel Hynes, Senior Engineer, with the Council’s Roads Department, confirmed that ‘soft enforcement’ was currently taking place, where warning notices are issued to motorists. Mr. Hynes said full enforcement (issuing of fines) is due to commence next Monday, 19th February.

Above: A copy of the warning notice being issued to motorists who overstay the 15 minutes in the new ‘set down’ areas in Dungarvan. Full enforcement (issuing of fines) is due to begin from Monday, 19th February. Pictured right: the new ‘set down’ signs. This one is located at Grattan Square, which indicates the set down space outside Hallahan’s Pharmacy. There is no parking to the right of the sign, outside Ulster Bank.

Farming .....................………….………………………………...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 COLD at first on Wednesday with some bright or sunny spells in the east of the province. Scattered outbreaks of rain in the west during the morning will extend to the rest of the province during the afternoon and evening. Afternoon highs of 4 to 8 Celsius in moderate, locally fresh, southerly winds but it will turn a little milder during the evening. Forecast for Thursday/Friday: Thursday will be a cloudy and rather cold day with showery outbreaks of rain during the morning time; the weather will tend to dry out later in the day. Highest temperatures of 7 to 9 degrees in southwesterly winds. Frost will develop on Thursday night as skies clear and it will be a frosty start to Friday morning as well.The morning time will be generally dry and bright but rain will reach all parts of the country during Friday afternoon and evening. Forecast for Saturday/Sunday: A wet and cloudy start Saturday but gradually brightening out through the morning time. Some showers will occur through the day but apart from these the weather will be generally dry and bright. Cold and breezy with highs of 7 to 9 degrees. Frost Saturday night. Little change for Sunday; cold, bright and blustery with scattered showers over west Munster but mainly dry for eastern parts. Outlook (Monday/Wednesday): Remaining cold with occasional rain or showers, frost at night. Daytime temperatures of 5 to 7 degrees. Becoming a little milder towards midweek.

Permission sought to redevelop landmark building

Permission has been sought to redevelop the landmark building known as the Bridge House into a restaurant and bar.

WED 8º

THUR 9º

FRI 9º

SAT 9º

SUN 9º

THERE are hopes that new jobs in both construction and the hospitality trade will be created in Dungarvan in the coming year, after a planning application was submitted to the local authority last week seeking to redevelop a landmark town centre building. The application by Michael Ryan is seeking to turn the Bridge House (a former bank) into a restaurant and bar. The iconic Bridge House is a dominant building between Davitt’s Quay

and T. F. Meagher Street, which overlooks Devonshire Bridge and Dungarvan Harbour Bay. In June last year, Bridge House and its adjoining site, a former laboratory were sold as one lot by REA Spratt. The entire site extends to 0.813 acres. The application (Council reference: 1847) outlines a lot of work to the protected structure, including repair of existing facade and structures in the building, along with replacement of mechanical / electrical services, redec-

oration inside and outside, as well as parking spaces and a delivery space to the rear. Waterford City and County Council is due to make a decision on the application by 22nd March, 2018. Bridge House, a 19th Century cut stone building was formerly a bank. It was last used as an arts studio by a group of artists who worked autonomously and together since 2012, where classes and exhibitions were held.

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

SONY

6 Nations

FREE

S t e a k O f fe r s

BLU-RAY PLAYER

Quality Irish Sirloin Steaks 4 for €9.99 Striploin Steaks 2 for €9.99

Deal from …

BEN O’NEILL O’Connell Street 058 41933

SONY Android

recordshopbenoneill@gmail.com Smart TV

BEST

PRICE GUARANTEE

More hi-vis signs sought to warn of wild deer hazard ADDITIONAL hi-vis signage is needed around rural areas of County Waterford to warn road users about wild deer. At the recent Plenary meeting of Waterford City and County Council, Cllr. Jim Griffin called

for more signage, particularly hi-vis signage, because “people are not taking notice”. “Wild deer are presenting a very serious health and safety risk on our roads, particularly at night time,” Cllr. Griffin pointed out.

Director of Services, Fergus Galvin said he would be happy to look at the erection of additional signage warning road users about wild deer in the area and sought a list of locations where the problem is particularly hazardous.

Councillors seek response from senior official on rural housing concerns TWO West Waterford Councillors demanded a response from a senior official at the recent Plenary meeting of the local authority, regarding his thoughts on linear development in rural locations and the ‘demise of rural Ireland’. Previously, Cllr. Michael J. O’Ryan and his party colleague, Cllr. James Tobin had outlined that linear development (also known as ribbon development) would sound the ‘death knell’ for rural communities in Waterford and the rest of the country if the matter is not addressed in the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy (RSES). The RSES is currently being put together to provide longterm regional level strategic planning and economic framework in support of the implementation of the draft National Planning Framework. However, Cllr. O’Ryan, speaking at the December meeting of the Council said the policy on avoiding ribbon development “will be the death knell of rural Ireland and that is happening more and more, even since I became a Councillor”. Linear (or ribbon) development is where houses are built along radial roads from the nearest town / village. As Cllr. O’Ryan previously pointed out, if there are four houses built on one stretch of rural road, the fifth person seeking a house will be refused. “So, it’s a timebomb that’s going to happen for rural Ireland,” he said. The Director of Services for Planning, Lar Power was not present at that meeting. At the January meeting of the

local authority, Cllr. O’Ryan again commented on the “plight of rural Ireland”, particularly where rural residents wish to build on their own land - and noted the presence of Mr. Power at the meeting. He said the policy against linear development is restrictive on young couples and family members building on their own land. “If we deny people planning then we are going to close down rural Ireland,” Cllr. O’Ryan warned. Mr. Power replied that he was aware Cllr. O’Ryan raised the issue at the December meeting and the Chief Executive (Michael Walsh) had replied to him, and so therefore didn’t wish to respond. However, Cllr. James Tobin said the reason the matter was raised again at the January meeting was because the Director of Planning, Mr. Power, was in attendance. Cllr. Tobin said he was aware of another local authority which spent two hours discussing the National Planning Framework. “Since you were unavailable at the last meeting, we might get a comment from you at this meeting,” Cllr. Tobin said. Mr. Power replied that he personally understood the need for rural housing. “But we have to be conscious of a sustainable planning policy and the impact on the countryside of continuous linear development,” Mr. Power advised. He said from a landscape impact – “think of the consequences of a septic tank and a private well in every house – the impact that has on the environ-

ment”. “Also the impact on the roads from access in and out of those houses,” he said. “I don’t think there would be any Council in the country that would grant planning to continuous linear development.” Mr. Power said Waterford Council has some restrictions in place in the County Development Plan. He said there are a couple of issues the Council are awaiting the Minister to clarify – such as the Flemish decree, where the European Courts of Justice ruled that the Flemish authorities in Belgium had to scrap a ‘locals only’ clause in their planning laws because it prevented non-local people from owning houses in the Flemish region and was contrary to Article 43 (Freedom of Movement of People). “We expect sustainable planning guidelines for rural housing to be imminent enough because the Minister said it would be in or around early 2018,” Mr. Power said. He said that once the RSES is adopted by the local authority, they can then commence work on the next County Development Plan, and one of the key chapters in that plan will be rural housing. “There is a balance to be struck between maintaining rural communities and maintaining the population and having sustainable planning. “The Council will have an opportunity in the next Development Plan to shape how they want to look at this issue and the executives will advise them as to the best policy in that regard,” Mr. Power added.

Health C hick y en Offer s e Far m Extra Larg C hickens Fresh Irish €5.99 each C hicken Large Irish the B one Breas ts on rinate d Plain & Ma 0 4 for €6.0 v r yland Kie Me d ium Ma Fr y & So uthern hicken Breade d C 0 4 for €6.0 e Bridge, Unit 1, Th Waterford . o C , n a v Dungar 0 058 7583

% % OFF

Boneless Cooked Turkey Breasts

% % OFF

Quality Irish Home Cooked Hams … Boiled Ham • Honey & Mustard Baked Ham • Whiskey & Apple Baked Ham

WE’RE BRINGING PROPERTIES FROM ALL OVER IRELAND TO THE US. Be a part of it as we bring homes and investment properties from all over Ireland to the REA Property Show in New York on the 8th of March 2018. Register to list your property by calling 058 42211 www.reaspratt.ie

PSRA 00-1621

Public awareness campaign on dealing with drug-related litter THE South East Regional Drugs and Alcohol Task Force (SERDATF) will launch an awareness campaign in the coming weeks to highlight to the public what they should do if they find drugrelated litter, such as needles and syringes. Drug litter is becoming a bigger problem in urban areas, with discarded used syringes and needles posing a health and safety hazard. The problem is particularly notable in certain areas of Waterford City. At the recent meeting of Waterford City and County Joint Policing Committee, Co-ordinator of SERDATF, Chris Purnell said drugrelated litter is something the Task Force prioritises. He said SERDATF has been working with the Gardaí, Waterford Council, the HSE and voluntary community groups over the past while, and they are on the point of launching an awareness campaign to alert the public on what they should do if they come across drug-related litter. Mr. Purnell said the awareness campaign would include information on who to contact and how the drug litter should be dealt with.

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

Reduced budget for South East Regional Drugs and Alcohol Task Force impacting on delivery of services Funding not enough to implement government’s National Drugs Strategy (2017-2025) A REDUCTION in funding provided to the South East Regional Drugs and Alcohol Task Force is having a huge impact on the delivery of services, and will affect the implementation of the government’s National Drugs Strategy. The Co-ordinator of the South East Regional Drugs and Alcohol Task Force, Chris Purnell, was making a presentation to the recent meeting of Waterford City and County Joint Policing Committee, when he revealed that their budget has been reduced over the years from €7m to €1m. “Our budget this year is just over €1m which isn’t near enough to implement the National Drugs Strategy for the South East,” Mr. Purnell said. He said the reduction in the Task Force’s budget “is also having a huge impact on the ability of front line services to deliver”. He pointed out that the SERDATF covers five counties in the South East – Waterford, South Tipperary, Carlow, Kilkenny and Wexford – and the €1m budget this year works out at €200,000 per county for the year. “So it is a very small budget relative to the size of the geographical area and the size of need,” Mr. Purnell said. The National Drug Strategy, titled ‘Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery’ (2017-2025) sets out the government’s response to addressing the harm caused by substance misuse in our society over the next eight years. It identifies a set of key actions to be delivered between 2017 and 2020, and provides an opportunity for the development of further actions from 2021 to 2024 to address needs that may emerge later on in the lifetime of the strategy. Mr. Purnell said the SERDATF are working on ways to try and map existing

actions to the new National Drugs Strategy. He said the Task Force will try and map what the needs of the South East are against those identified in the National Drugs Strategy, prioritise those actions that are required in each area and then seek an implementation of the plan. He said the needs of the South East can be identified through public / community consultation meetings, service user consultations, etc. Green Party Senator, Grace O’Sullivan, asked what would be sufficient to resource the Task Force. “The demographic is growing in the South East and we are now in an economic recovery, so I suspect the problem [drugs and substance misuse] is a growing problem,” Senator O’Sullivan said. While Mr. Purnell declined to ‘hazard a guess’ as to a sufficient budget, he pointed out that other State agencies, such as the HSE, the Gardaí, Educational Training Boards, and Department of Social Protection “would be spending many multiples of that budget year-onyear on substance misuse problems”. “This is why is it so important that those agencies are at the table talking to each other about how that money is spent,” Mr. Purnell said. “Because if each agency continues to spend money in isolation from each other, we really don’t get the synergy that we could get.” He said the SERDATF monitor and evaluate the impact of funded projects – and want to move to a more county-based structure to reflect the different needs of the five counties across the South East. In doing that, the SERDATF will retain control over their budget. DIFFICULTY However, Mr. Purnell revealed that to implement anything at a county or local level was difficult for the SERDATF. He said the Task Force attempted to

West Waterford Festival of Food launch of Friends Circle 2018 in the Crow's Nest at the Lady Belle Bar (l. to r.): Donal Connolly, Festival of Food Chairman; Marian and Pat Keane, Willow & Oak, pictured at the launch of this year's Friends Circle. [Dan McGrath]

move to the county structure several years ago in order to implement the largest number of actions contained in the National Drugs Strategy, while the Rehabilitation Framework Forum attempted to separate treatment rehabilitation issues from the wider range of community-orientated areas of the National Drugs Strategy. HSE BACKED OUT OF THE PROCESS “That didn’t happen,” Mr. Purnell said. “The HSE decided they weren’t going to lead on that action / structure, so the actions from the Rehabilitation Framework Forum were incorporated into the Action Implementation Team. More recently, the HSE decided they are not going to engage in that process at all,” Mr. Purnell revealed. He said they are examining how to get the HSE to re-engage with the SERDATF and help carry out the implementation of the National Drugs Strategy. Mr. Purnell said it is difficult to coordinate the implementation of the National Drugs Strategy when some of the key agencies, such as the HSE, are not attending, as is the case currently. He explained that this can then lead to apathy from other agencies and sectors who feel there is no engagement and then don’t attend either. SHOCK AT HSE ACTION Cllr. Joe Kelly said he was shocked to hear the HSE backed out of the process. “They are a major State agency - how can they back out of something like the National Drugs Strategy? It sounds insane to me,” Cllr. Kelly said. “We might as well fold up the tent altogether if groups like that back out.” He described the HSE as a faceless organisation where no-one takes responsibility for anything. “Who was responsible for making the decision that the HSE back out of the

process?” Cllr. Kelly queried. “Is there any reason why they won’t take part? If the HSE are not turning up to meetings, what can be done about it? It sounds ridiculous to me and I’m flabbergasted to hear that the HSE and other agencies can actually step out of the process.What’s going on? It is shocking in my view,” Cllr. Kelly added. Mr. Purnell said the HSE has not given any reason why it backed out of the process. He said in terms of county structures, agreed by the SERDATF in 2014, which included the HSE leading on the Rehabilitation Framework, the HSE backed out of that in 2015 and gave no reason for it. “I can’t enlighten you regarding the HSE rationale,” Mr. Purnell said. Cllr. Kelly said the HSE “is a huge outfit” and asked if there was one particular person they could chase about this. “This can’t be left go - it is ridiculous,” Cllr. Kelly said. Mr. Purnell said the HSE is still engaged in providing treatment services, but are just not doing it in partnership with other agencies at the SERDATF table. Mr. Purnell also pointed out that the terms of reference for a new national oversight committee makes reference to accountability of State agencies to engage in the process, but it remains untested and the oversight committee has only just started to meet. SENATOR TO RAISE ISSUE IN SEANAD Green Party Senator Grace O’Sullivan said she was also shocked to hear about the HSE backing out of the process. “Something needs to be done regarding that and it is something I would like to take forward in the Seanad, and ask why this is not happening,” Senator O’Sullivan added.

West Waterford Festival of Food launch of Friends Circle 2018 in the Crow's Nest at the Lady Belle Bar (l. to r.): Wini Swinburn and David Moynihan, Haven Art Gallery, and Mary Foley, Festival of Food, pictured at the launch of this year's Friends Circle. [Dan McGrath]

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

THE ALL-NEW ŠKODA KAROQ.

ANOTHER WAY TO DO RUSH HOUR. From €27,715 at George Corbett Motors.

George Corbett Motors, Cork Road,Waterford Tel: 051 857 717 • www.georgecorbettskoda.ie

Typical Example: KAROQ 1.0TSI 115hp Ambition OTRP €28,315. Deposit €8,423. 36 monthly payments of €319 including service plan of €12.99 per month. Optional final Payment €10,532. APR 3.9%. Total cost of credit €1,806. Minimum deposit is 10%. Subject to lending criteria. This offer is made under a hire purchase agreement. ŠKODA Finance is a trading style of VW Bank GmbH Branch Ireland, authorised by the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority in Germany and regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland for conduct of business rules. Prices and offer valid until January 31st 2018. Model shown is the KAROQ Style 1.0TSI 115hp. Price excludes delivery and related charges. CO2 from 114-138g/km. Combined fuel consumption from 4.3-5.5 l/100km.

Councillors welcome full grant funding for Hurricane Ophelia clean-up costs BUT COUNCIL TOLD TO APPLY TO INDIVIDUAL DEPARTMENTS FOR LONG-TERM DAMAGE TO INFRASTRUCTURE THE granting in full of a funding application to address immediate clean-up costs following Hurricane Ophelia in Waterford was welcomed at the recent Plenary meeting of the local authority. However, the Council was told that funding for long-term structural damage of various infrastructure will have to be sought from individual departments concerned. Waterford Council had made a funding application to the Department of Local

Government for €507,450, which was granted in full. Cllr. Michael J O’Ryan welcomed the full funding, saying the Department must have listened when the Council passed a motion last year, proposed by Cllr. O’Ryan - that Waterford Council no longer get a poor percentage of funding. Director of Services, Fergus Galvin confirmed the Council got full grant funding for the clean-up costs of the Hurricane, but said a second application, which sought €1.32m to repair

long-term structural damage to coastal defences, road damage, culvert and bridge damages, was not granted. “The Department advised us to make an application to the individual departments responsible,” Mr. Galvin said. “We are in the process of doing that - to apply for funding to the Department of Transport, the TII, the Department of Marine, Department of Environment, and the OPW in some cases,” he said. “We hope to get some

additional funding specifically to repair some of that long-term structural damage caused by Hurricane Ophelia,” Mr. Galvin added. However, Cllr. Davy Daniels slammed the Department’s response and expressed his disbelief. “No wonder this country is where it is - they want us to make a hundred applications for one grant!” Cllr. Daniels said. “That will tell you the way things have gone in this country,” he added.

C U R TA I N & R O M A N B L I N D E V E N T U P TO 20% OFF FOR F E B R U A RY

WESTGATE BUSINESS PARK, DUNGARVAN 058 48611 | www.curranhomecompany.ie

MEAT SPECIALISTS • DUNGARVAN SHOPPING CENTRE 058-24650

3 LBS. ROUND LEAN MINCE €9.99

CHICKEN BREASTS €7.99

2 LBS. OF TENDER DICED STEAK €9.99

28 DAY MATURED STRIPLOIN STEAKS 3 FOR €11.99

MANY MORE GREAT OFFERS IN STORE Fo r q ua li t y, v a lue & se r v ice

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

D u n g a r va n P r i m a r y C a r e Ce n t r e to o p e n i n M a r c h

CONSTRUCTION of the new Primary Care Centre in Dungarvan is nearing completion and the facility will be opening in March. The state of the art facility is being built on site at Dungarvan Community Hospital. When fully operational, the centre will complement services already being delivered by primary care/community healthcare services in the Dungarvan area. A number of multi-disciplinary, bookable rooms will be also available for visiting health professionals and the facility will be open at

least five days a week, with extra hours at weekends and evenings for some services. Confirming that plans are on track in Dungarvan, Ms. Anna Marie Lanigan (Head of Services/Primary Care, South East Community Healthcare) said: “In our commitment to providing the right service by the right team in the right place, building on what we have been doing so far and in line with plans for the future, we are looking forward to the coming into operation of the new Primary Care Centres in Dungarvan”. “The new Primary Care Centre will mean that the public in Dungarvan and surround-

ing localities can look forward to accessing the services of GPs, Public Health Nurses, Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, Dentists, Podiatrists, Speech and Language Therapists and Psychologists at one location. There will also be mental health services provided,” Ms. Lanigan added. Susan Murphy (Primary Care Lead, HSE Community Services, Waterford) co-ordinated a training day at Dungarvan Community Hospital last week, where up to 40 health professionals due to use the new centre were in attendance. In addition to Primary Care Teams opera-

tional throughout the South East (where HSE health professionals work closely with local GPs), there are existing Primary Care Centres (PCCs) in Carlow, Tipperary Town, Tramore, the Waterford Health Park PCC in Waterford, the Ayrfield PCC in Kilkenny and The Palms PCC in Gorey. Three more Primary Care Centres are nearing completion at St. Otteran’s Hospital in Waterford, St. Brigid’s Hospital in Carrick on Suir and Grogan’s Road, Wexford. Pictured: the impressive Dungarvan Primary Care Centre building.

Sesame Early Intervention Service Shortlisted for the Specialist Care Centre of the Year with the Irish Healthcare Awards 2018 SESAME Early Intervention Service has been shortlisted for the Irish Healthcare Awards 2018 under the category Specialist Care Centre of the Year. This Award Ceremony will take place on Friday 9th March in the Royal Marine Hotel Dun Laoghaire, Dublin. There are 5 other Specialist Care Centres also shortlisted for this Award. This is a huge achievement for the service and the Sesame Team. Sesame Early Intervention Service is a specialised service which provides Early Intervention for children with additional needs aged between 2 to 5 years in the West Waterford catchment area. Sesame has been running in Dungarvan for over 30 years. In 2012 Co. Waterford Community Childcare took over the running of Sesame. At the time Sesame was opened 5 mornings a week from 9.00 – 12.00. Since then the General Manager Eleanor McGrath has

secured further funding to facilitate an evening session enabling more children to access the service. On a daily basis Sesame has the ability to cater for 12 children. The service also moved to a new purpose built facility in Whitestrand, Abbeyside in 2014. Our facility complies with the Early Years’ Service Regulations and is registered and inspected by TUSLA. We are funded by the HSE Disability Service and supported by the Early Intervention Team. Our main aim is to provide a caring, safe and a happy environment for our children and their families. High quality and accessibility are at the core of our service. In Sesame we take the child’s strengths rather than their weakness and we always follow their lead. We appreciate the uniqueness of each individual child and our approaches are tailored to same. The benefits of Early

Intervention has been widely documented, as the fundamental years are of paramount importance and intervention at this stage supports children to reach their full potential. We offer a holistic approach, therefore implementing each child’s individual therapies. We offer a fun friendly environment catered to each child’s needs, encourage engagement and social play. Sesame is greatly supported by the HSE Multi-disciplinary team; • Occupational Therapists • Speech and Language Therapists • Physiotherapists • Psychologists • Social Workers • Clinical Nurse Specialist All of our structures, routines and individual programmes are tailored and monitored by this valuable team. Each child attending Sesame has an individual care plan set out. We work on a one

to one basis with the children. Sesame staff are involved in carrying out different therapies as directed by the HSE Early Intervention Team. Our Organisation is run by a voluntary Board of Management made up of representatives of the local community. Mary Walsh Chairperson, Diarmuid Mooney Secretary Teresa Daly Treasurer and Carmel Hourigan. The

Sesame Team involves the General Manager, Co-Ordinator, Administrator, RNID Nurse and Early Intervention Practitioners. All our team are qualified in their field. This month Sesame will be submitting their Siolta Portfolio for validation. Siolta is the National Quality Framework for Early Childhood Education. We will be the first Early

Intervention Service to have achieved this in Ireland. We will continue to enhance our service by implementing Aistear, the Early Childhood Framework in the near future. We in Sesame will continue to sustain and develop this existing quality service. Strive to meet the needs of our children and future children and support and empower parents.

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

7 Pictured is Finbarr Keohan presenting a cheque for €1,150.00 to Solas board member, John Lawless. Proceeds from the sale of his 2018 Calendar in aid of the Solas Cancer Support Centre, West Waterford services.

€13m road funding boost for Waterford Coffey says announcement is timely boost for the area COUNTY Waterford received a major boost as the Government paved the way for €13m in funding for key road and bridge upgrades across the county. Waterford Senator Paudie Coffey, who has lobbied Government for increased roads funding badly-needed improvements in roads across the county that suffered from a lack of investment during the recession years, this week said the announcement was a timely boost for the area. The areas earmarked to receive substantial investment in the Government’s Roads Funding allocation to Waterford Council include; the Bridge at Colligan, Helvic Bridge, Russelstown Bridge, Ballymacarbry, Clashmore junction and other roads works in Dungarvan, Lismore, Stradbally, Rathgormack and Mahon Bridge. Senator Coffey said: “This funding will allow safety improvement works to be carried out on local and regional roads as well as a number of bridges throughout the county. Waterford roads traditionally were maintained to a very high standard by the Council but in recent years many of our county

WESTGATE STORAGE offers self storage facility for your business or home storage needs • Access between 6.30 a.m. – 8.00 p.m. (Monday – Saturday) • 20ft Storage Containers • Concrete Yard • Competitive Price • 24 hour Video Surveillance • Access by Unique keypad system • Damp Proof • Vermin Proof • Ventilated • Forklift on site • Toilet facilities

Located at Westgate Business Park, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford Contact our team on 058 45135 or 087 2778630 (ind.)

LESS THAN

1.00

€

PER DAY!

FEBRUARY MEMBERSHIP

SALE Senator Paudie Coffey.

roads suffered due to lack of investment, so this news is very welcome for roads users throughout the county and I expect the Council to spend the additional funding wisely to improve our local county roads.” The Fine Gael Waterford General Election candidate added: “This funding will used to maintain and improve local roads from the West of the County to the East and every road in between in each local area. It is essential that our infrastructure is capable of meeting the demands of the people of rural county Waterford and our expanding economy.”

BUY 12 MONTHS AND GET 3 MONTHS FREE! Benefits of joining: · Early Opening Hours · Free Aqua Classes · Free Gym Programmes · Discounted Swimming Lessons · 10% off Food in Hotel

T. 058 42902 W. www.flynnhotels.com

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

Minimum cyclist passing distance is matter for national legislation But Director of Services favourable to erecting signage along cycle routes A PROPOSAL for a minimum passing distance of 1.5 metres when motorists overtake cyclists in a 60 km/h zone and over, is a national matter and not a matter for the local authority. At the recent Plenary meeting of Waterford City and County Council, Cllr. Declan Clune drew attention to a proposal to alter Road Traffic legislation and introduce the minimum passing distance. Cllr. Clune asked if there was anything the Council could do to put it in place in Waterford, such as a new bye-law? Director of Services, Fergus Galvin said he was aware of the proposal, but pointed out that it is really a Road Traffic legislation issue and not one that the Council could effectively introduce. He said such a policy would be dealt with through national legislation. However, Cllr. Clune again raised the matter at the January meeting of Comeragh Municipal District Council.

He said it was an initiative that the local authority in Wexford was looking at and have already introduced signage indicating motorists allow a 1.5 metre passing distance for cyclists. Cllr. Clune said this is something that Waterford Council shouldn’t wait for the law to be changed and should instead take the initiative and be a leader in introducing the 1.5 metre passing distance. Mr. Galvin acknowledged he saw the signs in Wexford and it is something he would like to get involved with in Waterford. “If we could get a few bob to do it, we’d be quite happy to support something like this, particularly as we have marked out cycle routes,” Mr. Galvin said. He said such similar signage would be ideal along the Coast Road and other routes that cyclists use. Mr. Galvin said he would examine if there was any way to introduce a similar signage scheme in Waterford.

Carmel Fitzpatrick, Managing Director of Eurofins Lancaster Laboratories presents a cheque for the sum of €16,667 to Mr. Gerry Kelly of the South East Simon Community. This presentation marks the 30th Anniversary of Eurofins and to recognise this milestone, Eurofins donated €1m to charities across its global workforce. Eurofins Lancaster Laboratories, based in Clogherane, Dungarvan, selected the South East Simon Community as their charity to benefit from this donation.

Elaine D’Arcy of Eurofins Sports & Social Club Dungarvan presents a cheque for €700 to Mr. Gerry Kelly of the South East Simon Community. This donation was as a result of staff donations from our Christmas Breakfast which was held in December.

Pictured at the recent Information Night held in The Park Hotel by Dungarvan Pro Life group. The Dungarvan ProLife group are opposing the Governments attempt to delete the Eighth Amendment which protects babies in the womb from being directly aborted. (L. to r.): Fintan Power, Dungarvan Pro Life; Vicky Wall from Every Life Counts; Niamh Ui Bhriain, The Life Institute; Sr. Mary Fitzgerald and Tom Doherty from Dungarvan ProLife.

Task Force aims to identify blocks to implementing National Drugs Strategy THE South East Regional Drugs and Alcohol Task Force plans to identify gaps and blocks which prevent or disrupt the implementation of the government’s National Drugs Strategy. Chris Purnell, Co-ordinator of the South East Regional Drug and Alcohol Task Force, said those gaps and blocks can occur within treatment or rehabilitation of a former drug user. He told the recent meeting of Waterford City and County Joint Policing Committee that the Task Force wants to identify what stops former drug users getting beyond the rehabilitation and recovery stage. Mr. Purnell said one of the aims of the SERDATF is to assist those agencies who come into contact with the public, where there might be a drink or drug abuse problem - such as the Gardaí, doctors, nurses, social workers, etc. “If we can better identify those people, we can have them referred to services,” he said.

He said those who come to the attention of the Gardaí through drink or drug misuse can also be referred to those services, which is called an ‘arrest referral’. Mr. Purnell said the arrest referral has been contained in the National Drugs Strategy for a number of years, but has not been implemented by the HSE or the Gardaí. He said that more recently, the Garda representative on the SERDATF has proposed to the HSE that all Gardaí coming through the ‘continued professional development system’ would receive training in screening and briefing in interventions. “This is how to identify those people, how to best approach them and have information available about the services which they can be referred to,” he said. “It can be best achieved through standardised information given to people on release from custody. There is a proposal to have that as a standardised system across the South East, we are just waiting a response

from the HSE on that,” Mr. Purnell said. He pointed out that the National Drugs Strategy has actions to be implemented by a wide range of agencies such as the HSE and the Gardaí, but also the voluntary and community sector and other State agencies. The National Drug Strategy, titled ‘Reducing Harm, Supporting Recovery’ (2017-2025) sets out the government’s response to addressing the harm caused by substance misuse in our society over the next eight years and identifies a set of key actions to be delivered between 2017 and 2020, with opportunity for development of further actions between 2021 and 2024 to address needs that may emerge later on in the lifetime of the strategy. Mr. Purnell said in future, the SERDATF would also like to focus on town centre anti-social behaviour, following information and comments from community representatives; as well as building supports like AA; and areas like smart recovery - evidencebased approach to recovery training.

Café Theology

Porridge is not just for Goldilocks and the three bears!

SPEAKER Vicky Wall, Abbeyside, Dungarvan on – Have you doubts about the 8th Amendment? Listen to my Story. Wednesday, 21st February Granville Hotel 7.30 p.m. – 9.00 p.m. All welcome Feel free to bring a friend Ms. Vicki Wall will share her experience of her baby in the womb being diagnosed with a life-limiting condition and deciding to continue with the pregnancy and giving birth to the baby. She will talk about the joy the baby brought her and the wonderful memory she has of being a mother to her child and how the child is fondly remembered in her family.

Keep up the Healthy Eating this February with a Hearty Breakfast from SuperValu’s Free Porridge Giveaway WITH January finally ending, it’s never been easier to stick to our new year’s resolutions by maintaining that healthy ‘new year, new me’ attitude and the ‘good’ habits that have become a part of our daily routine for the rest of the year and beyond. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and a bowl of nutritious porridge is a breakfast staple that will keep those hunger pangs at bay right through until lunchtime. To celebrate the goodness and health benefits of porridge, SuperValu will be giving FREE PORRIDGE to customers nationwide on Saturday the 10th February with any purchase made in store. At the heart of a healthy family is a healthy balanced diet and therefore, we should strive to make sure that every member of the family eats a nutritious breakfast every day. Research has proven that one of the most nutritious breakfast foods to kick start your day is oats. Oats are high

in soluble fibres, known as beta-glucans, which help even out the sugar and cholesterol levels in our blood. Porridge is one of the most popular ways to eat oats, and while porridge oats are extremely affordable, they’re also delicious and now considered a superfood with many ways to further enhance the taste and health benefits by adding blueberries, seeds or nut butters. On Saturday 10th February, SuperValu will be giving away over 50,000 1kg packs of own brand porridge while stock lasts - which is the equivalent to an astounding 1.5 million bowls of porridge! SuperValu is committed to ensuring that the next generation of Irish people are healthier than the last and is encouraging everyone to eat a healthy breakfast every day, so why not start by cooking a delicious bowl of porridge from scratch and get a little bit creative with the toppings.

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

Backlog of Housing Adaptation applications due to inadequate funding from Department THE level of funding from the Department of Housing for Housing Adaptation Grants has proven to be inadequate, as Waterford Council have a significant number of backlog cases classed as ‘medical one priorities’. Housing Adaptation Grants provide grant aid to people who need to carry out works to their house to render it more suitable for a person with a disability, such as provision of access ramps; stairlifts; downstairs toilet facilities; accessible showers; adaptations to facilitate wheelchair access;

extensions; any other works to render a house more suitable to accommodate a person with a disability. The Council approved just over €1.7m in housing adaptation grants in 2017 for 282 applicants. However, at the recent Plenary meeting of Waterford City and County Council, Cllr. Joe Kelly said he was aware of one case where an applicant was told that the adaptation of their house cannot be carried out in 2018. “This person is a priority one,” Cllr. Kelly said.

“Has the money already been allocated?” he asked. Director of Services for Housing, Ivan Grimes said the level of funding from the Department of Housing determines the number of grants paid out in any given year. “We have a significant backlog of medical one priorities and unfortunately, due to the level of funding provided by the Department, we would have already allocated the funding for the year at this stage,” Mr. Grimes revealed.

Council approves five-year Culture and Creative Strategy WATERFORD’S Culture and Creative Strategy (2018-2022) which forms part of the government’s Creative Ireland Programme, was unanimously adopted by Waterford City and County Council at its Plenary meeting recently. The document, which seeks to encourage everyone in society to realise their full creative potential, aims to put culture at the heart of all government policies. Waterford is recognised as a location rich in culture and heritage and the strategy provides an opportunity for cultural players in Waterford to further connect and enhance the plans and frameworks already in place for cultural development across the

county. Jane Cantwell, Waterford Library Services, who presented the strategy to the Plenary meeting explained to Councillors that the strategy explores ways in which cultural and creativity can become central to people’s lives, delivering opportunities for all citizens to have increased access to and engagement and participation in cultural activity. She said it identifies opportunities for collaborative and embedded cultural development, enhancing the creative potential of individuals and communities and ensuring delivery of the Creative Ireland programme vision locally, making Waterford a place where culture is valued and

supported over the long term. She said one thing that people sought through the public survey was to bring cultural events to their localities and a need to empower local communities to recognise creativity in their own areas. Ms. Cantwell said one of the implementation strategy’s in the document was all about empowering local communities and building creative competency. She said that while the budget is limited for 2018 (€64,000), she hoped it would be increased in the future. Councillors unanimously approved the adoption of the Waterford Culture and Creativity Strategy (2018-2022).

Council unanimously supports ratification of Convention Against Trafficking in Human Organs

FOR SALE BY PRIVATE TREATY

SUBSTANTIAL COMMERCIAL PROPERTY AT SHANDON, DUNGARVAN CO. WATERFORD PRICE ON APPLICATION • Prime Industrial Unit – 26,000 sq.ft. on 5 acres approx. • Conveniently located just off the N25 Dungarvan Bypass • Easy commuting distance to Waterford, Cork and Dublin • Unit in excellent condition • Internal design suitable for numerous commercial activities • High quality security fencing and CCTV alarm system • Extensive car parking • Large automatic roller shutter and separate loading bay • Weighbridge capacity 60 ton • The former MRF is a unique opportunity to acquire a state of the art commercial property. VIEWING BY APPOINTMENT ONLY Further details, maps, etc., available from David Reynolds

Call also made for Chinese Government to cease persecution of Falun Gong WATERFORD City and County Council unanimously supported a Notice of Motion calling on the Government to ratify the Convention Against Trafficking in Human Organs and for the government to call on the Chinese authorities to cease their persecution of religious group ‘Falun Gong’. Cllr. Adam Wyse, who proposed the motion at the recent Plenary meeting of Waterford City and County Council, noted that the Convention Against Trafficking in Human Organs was adopted by the Council of Europe on 9th July, 2014, in order to criminalise illegal organ transplantations, and the Government has already signed the Convention, but has yet to ratify it. Cllr. Wyse acknowledged his motion is very international, but he believes “Ireland does have a role to play in this”. He said Falun Gong is a religious / spiritual group, but it is condemned by the Communist Chinese Government because they

believe Falun Gong “makes people lazy”. “As elected representatives, we believe in democracy and I believe anyone should have the right to practice their life and beliefs in any way possible,” Cllr. Wyse said. Cllr. Eamon Quinlan supported the motion, saying it took Ireland approximately 50 years to ratify the EU Convention on Human Rights, and he hoped the Convention Against Trafficking in Human Organs would pass a lot quicker to protect Irish people. In relation to Falun Gong, he said the group is being used by the Chinese Government as an excuse to suppress political dissidents and those who disagree with the current political situation in China. “We believe that expressions and right of beliefs of all people should be respected and we need to make this known to the Chinese government,” Cllr. Quinlan added.

Sherry FitzGerald Reynolds Bridge Street Dungarvan Co. Waterford 058 23444 BER C2 | BER NO. 800614489

Licence No. 001468

EDITORIAL

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

Two historic victories BY normal standards, Ardmore GAA Club is young at sixty-one years of age, but it did not deter the stalwart players, supported by their club administration and a goodly percentage of the residents of the parish from bringing an All-Ireland trophy back to Déise Déaglain. They have also opened the County’s account of All-Ireland Club Championships and will proudly occupy first place for such an achievement. While the fortunes of the Club varied from time to time over the last decade, mainly through loss of key players, Ardmore hearts stayed brave, fought their many good fights and finally brought home the supreme reward last Sunday. As the match report says, Sunday, February 4th, 2018, will go down in the annals of the Ardmore GAA Club as its most successful ever. We might also add the Annals of the County as well. Though small in number at less than half a thousand residents, hearts are big; loyalty is strong and wills are acclimatised to surmounting adversity. Their achievement and triumph are all the sweeter and more valuable for their battles. As a small club, they will be an inspiration to others of like numbers, who will see in last Sunday’s result many possibilities for themselves as well. Just twenty-four hours before, the Irish Rugby Team, occasional minnows by international standards, were doing their own giant-killing by beating France on their home turf. Having been occasionally lack-lustre, the team found themselves in deficit with the final whistle staring them in the face. With iron determination, fierce discipline and cool heads, they robbed the French of their victory with the last kick of the game. This necessitated three minutes of added time when they enforced discipline through an almost unprecedented forty-one phases for Johnny Sexton to rifle home the final score from over forty metres and under fierce pressure. Having waited so long for a win on French soil, this too, will be a victory which will be talked about for decades to come.

Dungarvan recognised again HAVING received the good news just a couple of weeks ago that the Déise Greenway had won the Gold for the

INCORP. MUNSTER INDUSTRIAL ADVOCATE Serving the community of County Waterford for over a century 1912–2018 Best Tourism Initiative in the All-Ireland Community and Council Awards organised by Local Authorities Members Association and iPB Insurance while it also took a Grand Prix Award for 2018, more was to follow. The news that Dungarvan has been chosen as the Irish entry in the European Entente Florale is very welcome indeed. The positive benefits this will bring in widespread European coverage will, in itself, be a reward for the enormous amount of work which is ahead of the town. The Local Authority, the Tidy Towns Committee, the Chamber of Commerce, as well as many voluntary organisations and most of all, the citizenry of Dungarvan, will have to make a dedicated, sustained and determined effort to present the town in its best light and maintain it this Summer. This might have looked like an insurmountable problem a few decades ago, but the strides the various interested parties have made in beautifying the town since the Managerial control of Dan Hurley twenty years ago and successive civic leaders since, with the co-operation of the public, have brought the task well inside the town’s capacity to make a realistic bid for the title. The people of Dungarvan have only to look back to last Summer and the magnificent floral displays around Grattan Square and the streets of the town. These, when matched with a litter free environment, if duplicated this year, will give us a major foundation on which to build. With only an occasional exception, the flowers were left undisturbed; the people in the streets took away their litter and the business people maintained their frontages in exemplary fashion. This is an opportunity which must be capitalised on. Every effort and more must be harnessed in tandem with the Tidy Towns campaign to prepare for that all important assessment when the European Judges come to town and walk the streets. Dungarvan is not the first Waterford town to represent Ireland. In the West, Ardmore and Lismore made an excellent presentation, as did Passage East several

decades ago. Now, it is the turn of Dungarvan to capitalise on the European bonus to add to our Greenway benefits. As a Tidy Town Gold medallist, much of the heavy lifting may be already done. But much remains to be done and the effort sustained. That is possible and, there is no doubt that with co-operation all round, the town can make as big an impression on Europe as it has done in our own country.

Penny wise and pound foolish THERE can be no one on this island or beyond who does not realise that society, in Ireland and elsewhere, has a major task ahead to try to arrest the spread of the drugs epidemic. In Ireland, this is taking a major toll on society and must be fought on all fronts and using all strategies The Gardaí have had extraordinary success in drug raids and confiscating illicit drugs, but successful as they are, we know that at least as much gets through the net as is caught. Reports from last week’s Joint Policing Committee say that the drug problem is almost as bad in rural areas as it is in the City. This is contrary to traditional trends and is a worrying one for the Gardaí, medical authorities, social workers and voluntary activists. The public will view with dismay the report that the Government has slashed funding for the implementation of its drugs strategy. The South East Regional Drugs and Alcohol Task Force says that the reduction in funding from €7 million to €1 million for implementation of the strategy and the daily battle against the drug culture, is having a huge impact on their response. This is hardly surprising. This trend makes no sense at all. As long as the effort and campaign is ineffective, the situation will get worse. That means more avoidable hospital beds required – which are not there – more expensive policing, more custodial sentences at €70,000 per prisoner per year and more social workers. Is there a perception among Government and Civil Service that the drug problem is one for the less well off? For those who do not get up early in the morning? For those whom society often regards as expendable? Is this just one more manifestation of official policy of withdrawing services from the less well off who are to be left to fend for themselves? People will make their own decisions on that.

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

SERDATF Co-ordinator says mechanics of Garda Vetting has to change JPC meeting told a person on the path to recovery should not be precluded from getting a job THE Co-ordinator for the South East Drugs and Alcohol Task Force has said the mechanics of Garda Vetting have to change in order for people who have a criminal conviction for a drugs offence to be able to move on with their lives and get a job. Speaking at the recent meeting of Waterford City and County Joint Policing Committee, Chris Purnell, Co-ordinator for the Task Force, said people who are coming through ‘recovery’ and looking to move on with their lives, gain employment and move beyond their previous lifestyle cannot do so, due to the way the Garda Vetting is operated. “If you have a criminal conviction, you won’t get a job,” he said. “The way Garda Vetting applies means that will continue for some indi-

viduals. “So, even if people have recovered, they can’t really become rehabilitated, because they can’t get jobs and move beyond their previous lifestyle. It is a difficult one to tackle.” He pointed out that the recent Spent Convictions Act means that public order offences or motoring offences can be expunged after seven years, and only one drug-related offence. “That doesn’t assist a huge amount of people in achieving recovery,” he said. Green Party Senator, Grace O’Sullivan asked what Mr. Purnell would suggest in relation to Garda Vetting and the lack of job opportunities for someone on the path to recovery and their entitlement to enter the job market. Mr. Purnell said there has been an attempt in legislation to address the problem with the Spent Convictions

Act. “But it hasn’t gone far enough,” he said. “Particularly with the disparity between drug-related offences and drink-related offences.” However, Mr. Purnell said he believes it is the application of Garda Vetting that needs to change, rather than the legislation. “That comes down to employers and the educational institutions and their policies and how bodies such as the Regional Drugs and Alcohol Task Force can influence those bodies to change the way they apply Garda Vetting,” Mr. Purnell said. Giving an example, he said someone who was convicted of a drugs-related offence 20 years in their past, should not be precluded from getting a job once they have been on the path to recovery for a number of years.

Another example given was a person on the path to recovery who wants to do a social care course. “Once they start that course, they find in the second year, when it comes to work placement, that there is Garda Vetting and the educational institution may say if the person doesn’t pass the Garda Vetting, then that person can’t be put forward for work placement, and the person can’t complete their degree course,” Mr. Purnell said. “There are ceilings in place for people who have worked incredibly hard to move beyond their addiction and change their lives, and then be denied the opportunities of achieving the kind of recovery capital in terms of employment that should be available to them.” Mr. Purnell said another avenue which needs to be addressed are Garda drug searches.

He said it can be an issue for people on the path to recovery from substance misuse, but their reputations go with them longer than their drug-using careers. “It can be a cause of friction for those who were involved in drug use / dealing, but who have now achieved recovery,” Mr. Purnell said. He suggested a way of negotiating with the Gardaí so that these people are not continuing to be the subject of searches. Mr. Purnell said there is a system now within the Gardaí, where if a person feels they are being continually searched, but are no longer involved in illegal drug use, they can contact a particular Garda within the South East and discuss the matter. “If somebody has moved beyond drug use, then it would be way of recognising that and keeping them out of the net for searches,” Mr. Purnell said.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

NEWS

€29m spent in Waterford in past four years under Home Renovation Incentive Scheme THE Home Renovation Incentive Scheme has resulted in almost €30 million being spent on refurbishing residential properties in Waterford over the past

Fine Gael TD John Deasy

four years. Introduced in the October 2013 Budget, the scheme allows homeowners who carry out qualifying renovation works to apply for and claim an income tax credit, subject to certain criteria being met. Fine Gael TD John Deasy, who successfully lobbied thenMinister Michael Noonan to extend the duration of the scheme, asked by way of a recent Dáil question how many properties had registered for the scheme in the city and county since it came into effect; and how much these works were worth. Minister Paschal Donohoe replied that Revenue statistics on

Old & Unwanted Vehicles ED V O M RE F CHARGE FREE O

Official Certificate of Destruction Issued Licenced By Waterford City & County Council Reclaim Remaining Motor Tax Hassle Free Collection We Take Care Of All Paperwork Environmentally Friendly Peace Of Mind Totally Free Service Phone today

the HRI scheme, which are updated on a monthly basis, show that 1,515 properties had works registered for the incentive in Waterford city and county to date.

With many local builders and tradesmen benefitting from the high take-up in Waterford, “The corresponding monetary value of these works is €28.89 million,” the Minister confirmed.

087 0529172 • 087 2709734

HRI take-up in Waterford city and county since October 2013:

HEARING AIDS youOF hard of hearing? ARE YOU Are HARD HEARING?

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

Altering structure of awarding grants could prove too contentious for Councillors

“A few years ago we asked people to report the knotweed and signs were put up by the Council not to cut it,” Cllr. Fitzgerald said. “It seems that nothing has been done since. What does the Council intend to do, rather than just making a list of sites where this knotweed is?” he asked. Director of Services, Fergus

Galvin explained that the Council is responsible for knotweed on Council-owned land. “We have mapped where the knotweed is and sprayed it. It takes three to four years to totally eradicate it and it needs consistent treatment over a four period to fully eradicate it,” Mr. Galvin said.

• • • • • •

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 Now deeper and more discreet

FREE HEARING TEST

HEARING CLINIC 29, BISHOPSTOWN ROAD, CORK www.audivox.ie info@audivox.ie Make an appointment now to discover if one of our discreet ranges of hearing aids are suitable for you

%&4*(/ t 13*/5 t 4*(/"(&

I Have Moved!

P EMMET

PARISH C HURC H

AUGUSTINIAN FRIARY

S TREET

J AC K N E L

STR EET

AND MUCH MORE

C HU R CH

TREATMENT of Japanese Knotweed in order to eradicate the non-native invasive species takes up to four years, a senior official told the recent Plenary meeting of Waterford City and County Council. Cllr. Pat Fitzgerald said the Council is supposed to have a programme in place to eradicate the knotweed.

10.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.

Eradication of Japanese Knotweed takes up to four years

Monday, 12th February

U S T IN

are awarded. However, he pointed out that the composition of the structure of awarding the funding was discussed at the Housing and Community SPC (Strategic Policy Committee) last November. “The view was taken that making amendments to the structure of the grants in allocating them to the groups would be too contentious and could result in ‘civil war’ breaking out when we come to make a decision here in the Chamber,” Mr. Grimes said. “It was felt it best to leave the structure for funding alone for 2018. But once the applications are in and assessed, I am more than happy to organise a workshop for Councillors before a decision is made on them,” Mr. Grimes added.

S T. A UG

€155,000 to be distributed amongst a total of 377 groups under the three headings. The groups under the Residents Association Fund received €450 each; while groups under Community Activity Fund received €400 each and groups under the Sport and Recreation Fund received €450 each. Councillors agreed at the time that each application would be “scrutinised” to see if there was a better way to distribute the funding and make a better impact, as there could be some groups that have plenty of other funding sources, while some groups may have no funding sources. Cllr. Murphy asked if a workshop could be held before the funds are distributed for 2018. Director of Services, Ivan Grimes confirmed a workshop could be held before the grants

Great value, lower price, expert service

S TRAND ST.

A SENIOR Council official has said that making amendments to the structure of awarding grants under the Supporting Waterford Communities Fund could prove so contentious for Councillors that ‘civil war’ could erupt in the Council Chamber, that a decision was taken to leave the current funding award format in place for 2018. At the recent Plenary meeting of Waterford City and County Council, Cllr. Ray Murphy noted that last year, following the allocation of grants under three headings ‘Residents Association Fund’, Community Activity Fund’ and ‘Sport and Recreation Fund’, there were concerns expressed among Councillors regarding the breakdown of the fund that it might be spread ‘too thinly’. Last year, there was a budget of

S T . M AR Y ST

THE Head of Waterford Library Service said she would examine a suggestion to open ‘toy’ libraries. At the recent meeting of Waterford City and County Council, Cllr. Siobhán Whelan noted that the Library Service in Waterford “is driven and very forward thinking”. “I’ve been asked if the Library Service would consider opening a ‘toy library’, which would operate on the same line as a normal library. It is popular in other countries,” Cllr. Whelan noted. Jane Cantwell, Library Service, Waterford City and County Council, said in many ways, they already supply toys in the form of Xbox and Nintendo games, DVDs, CDs, audio children books. “We also supply toys for use in the library, such as with parent and toddler groups,” Ms. Cantwell pointed out. However, she indicated she was open to examining Cllr. Whelan’s suggestion. “If there is a model out there internationally, I will look into it,” Ms. Cantwell said. “We are happy to lend anything that will actually bring more people into the libraries,” she added.

Funding format for awarding of community grants is maintained for 2018

C HAPEL STREE T

Librarian to examine possibility of ‘toy libraries’ in Waterford

CONVENTIONAL HEARING AIDS MAY NOT BE NEEDED Visit our Monthly Hearing Aid Clinic at

L S T.

ARD SCOIL

BUTTERY LANE

My new e-mail is matt@graphicprint.ie

My new My new ne ew n numb number umb u mber m b r iiss 058 05 0 58 8 73140 73 7 31 3140 14 1 40 4 0

PICTORIAL

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

West Waterford Festival of Food launch of Friends Circle 2018 in the Crow's Nest at the Lady Belle Bar (l. to r.): Michael Sheehan,Wine Buff; Paul Clerkin, Festival of Food; James O'Donoghue, Deise Link; Joan Clancy, RNLI and David McNally, Ormonde Cafe, pictured at the launch of this year's Friends Circle. [Dan McGrath]

West Waterford Festival of Food launch of Friends Circle 2018 in the Crow's Nest at the Lady Belle Bar (l. to r.): John Quealy, Quealy's Bar; Judith McNally, Ormond Cafe; Dalton, Suzanne Dalton Jewellers, and Aoibhin Ni Chonchuir, pictured at the launch of this year's Friends Circle. [Dan McGrath]

West Waterford Festival of Food launch of Friends Circle 2018 in the Crow's Nest at the Lady Belle Bar (l. to r.): Brid Kenneally, Sinead Kenneally, Ann Marie Houlihan and Caroline Senior, Festival of Food CEO, pictured at the launch of this year's Friends Circle. [Dan McGrath]

West Waterford Festival of Food launch of Friends Circle 2018 in the Crow's Nest at the Lady Belle Bar (l. to r.): Cabrini de Barra, Glor na Gael; Breda O'Brien, Ardmore Art Gallery; Grace O'Brien, Orlaith Brady, Gourmet House; Ann Hannigan, Gourmet House, and Rachel Kiely, pictured at the launch of this year's Friends Circle. [Dan McGrath]

West Waterford Festival of Food launch of Friends Circle 2018 in the Crow's Nest at the Lady Belle Bar (l. to r.): Ger McGrath and Deidre Morrissey, Lady Belle, pictured at the launch of this year's Friends Circle. [Dan McGrath]

West Waterford Festival of Food launch of Friends Circle 2018 in the Crow's Nest at the Lady Belle Bar (l. to r.): Caroline Senior, Festival of Food CEO; Marie Quinn, The Moorings, and Claire Dalton, Festival of Food Programmer, pictured at the launch of this year's Friends Circle. [Dan McGrath]

West Waterford Festival of Food launch of Friends Circle 2018 in the Crow's Nest at the Lady Belle Bar (l. to r.): Emma O'Keeffe and Aoife Hallahan, Barronâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bakery, pictured at the launch of this year's Friends Circle. [Dan McGrath]

West Waterford Festival of Food launch of Friends Circle 2018 in the Crow's Nest at the Lady Belle Bar (l. to r.): Deidre Morrissey, Lady Belle; Sean Drohan, WLR, and Teresanne O'Reilly, WLR, pictured at the launch of this year's Friends Circle. [Dan McGrath]

West Waterford Festival of Food launch of Friends Circle 2018 in the Crow's Nest at the Lady Belle Bar (l. to r.): Kevin O Morchoe, Joan Clancy and Nicky Hannigan, Helvick RNLI, pictured at the launch of this year's Friends Circle.

West Waterford Festival of Food launch of Friends Circle 2018 in the Crow's Nest at the Lady Belle Bar (l. to r.): Mary Foley, Festival of Food, and Teresa Fennell, Deise Link, pictured at the launch of this year's Friends Circle.

[Dan McGrath]

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

NEWS

Not natural to end your baby’s life ON Tuesday evening of last week, in The Park Hotel, Dungarvan, a public meeting was held, organised by the Dungarvan Pro-Life group to inform the public of the essential need to retain the Eighth Amendment to the Constitution, i.e. Article 40.3.3 which guarantees the equal right to life of the mother and unborn child. This is accepted by everyone and is a pillar of the law, that ensures that widespread abortion is not introduced into Irish legislation at the expense of children yet unborn. The meeting was addressed by a number of speakers including Niamh Uí Bhriain of the Life Institute. She told the meeting that the abortion referendum would be defeated because ordinary decent people would make their voices heard to explain to their family, friends and neighbours, that this is a cruel and unjust proposal. She said that recent polls showed that support for abortion was slipping, because people could now see past the ‘repeal’ slogan, and the reality of what repeal would mean was becoming evident. EVERY LIFE COUNTS The Meeting was also addressed by local woman,Vicky Wall who is a member of a group called ‘Every Life Counts’. In the course of a lengthy and moving address, she said that abortion would have robbed her of the time she had with her daughter Líadán, and that the 8th Amendment protects women at such a vulnerable time. It also ensures that every baby has a right to life, however severe their disability might be. “I am mother to a precious, beautiful little girl called Líadán who was diagnosed with Trisomy 18 at our 20-week scan. She was loved and cherished for every moment that I carried her.When she was born, I held my baby girl in my arms and we knew that if our love could have saved her she would have lived forever,” she says. “I’ve never been involved in campaigns until now but I want people to understand my daughter was not a ‘fatal foetal abnormality’ she was my baby, and that research shows abortion hurts women in these circumstances. “In 2014,” she continued, “I found out that I was pregnant. It was not a planned pregnancy, but after the news sank in, we were absolutely overjoyed. “I had a twelve weeks scan and all was well and could see this beautiful baby. She was very active and even seemed to wave at us. We were very excited and even decorated the baby’s room and already this baby was so, so loved. “Two weeks later, I had what is called an anomaly scan in Waterford University Hospital. The midwife was brilliant to us and we could see the baby active on the screen. I was concerned that the baby was measuring a bit small. “Then the Midwife said ‘there seems to be something wrong with the baby’s feet’ and it turned out that Liadán had what is commonly termed club-feet. I wasn’t especially worried as I felt ‘they can fix this’. “The Midwife added that there may be a genetic problem with your baby and would need to go to Dublin to have it checked. She confirmed the baby was a girl and there and then, we called her Líadán.” TRISOMY 18 “Up there, the Doctor said it might be Trisomy 18, known as Edward’s Syndrome, which meant that she was not compatible with life. I did not know what this meant, only that I knew she was compatible with me and our family and we could fix her. His first response was ‘you could pop over to England’. I couldn’t believe he was telling me she wouldn’t live. Ending her life was not an option and it was not our right. “We went back to Waterford for our checks and they were so kind.They offered as many scans and as much care as we wanted. Seeing Liadán grow each week was so precious to us. “The Consultant confirmed that she was not in any pain or distress and she was fine and happy where she is. All she can feel is you loving her. “A 2013 study in the medical Journal of Genetics found that 61% of parents whose babies were diagnosed with Trisomy13 and 18 were under pressure to have an abortion, with some doctors refusing to treat them if they were not going to have an abortion. TOLD HER STORIES “During the pregnancy, we took time off work to spend with Liadán. We spoke to her and told her stories and just wanted to spend as much time as we had together with her. Her older sister played music for her and her brother brought me a glass of milk every day to keep us healthy. He had learned this in school. Well meaning people told us we were getting too attached to people and that my other children were getting too attached to her. My response was ‘we are not getting attached, this is our daughter and we all love her unconditionally’. One day Liadan was unusually quiet and when a friend called I told her. “Have some cake,” she said, “that will make her move, she loves sweet things’.The doctor had confirmed that she could taste and react to things. She can sense that you are

happy. After a short while, I got this great kick and I hugged her with my elbows and spoke to her. Shortly after that, I felt a strong pain and Liadan never kicked again. DARK CURLY HAIR We went to Waterford to have Liadán delivered and at 7.17 on the 17th August she was born weighing two pounds. She was beautiful and looked just like her sister and looked perfect. With dark curly hair, you would not know there was anything wrong with her. We had brought along a little outfit in which to bring her home and spent hours just looking at her.We brought her home the following day and all our family wanted to see her and say hello and goodbye in one day. “Liadan’s Funeral was probably a bit insane. We had a bouncy castle, paints and balloons and music. All her relations were there and we celebrated that day as her birthday. “The grief was excruciating. I didn’t think it would be. After all, I hadn’t met this baby and people lose babies all the time. One thing that helped me through this grief was that I had never harmed her and she had never harmed me. People gave me great care and surrounded me in my grief. Grief is natural and death is natural, but it is not natural to end your baby’s life. HAND-PRINTS Liadán is a huge part of our family; her hand-prints hang on our wall with other family pictures.We celebrate her birthday every year; her family and friends always remember her. She is mentioned in birthday and Christmas cards and is still very much loved and missed. “I take comfort in the fact that she lived her life with love, care and dignity. I can talk about Liadán knowing that I never harmed her. “The 8th Amendment protects mothers and babies and if it is repealed the dynamic of care will change. Some doctors will push for these babies to be aborted. “Abortion does not just take a baby’s life, it robs mothers and fathers of time with their baby. I am tired of hearing stories of doctors telling people that the only answer is to abort these babies and it is not. We can do better. A study in 2015 says that women who had an abortion after a diagnosis of life-limiting conditions were significantly more likely to suffer depression and despair. One night I woke, thinking I had rolled over and smothered Liadán. I was very stressed. If I had ended her life how could I live with that? PERINATAL HOSPICE CARE Most Irish parents do not seek an abortion especially when the care is good. A study by Cork University Hospital on all babies diagnosed with Trisomy 13 or 18 over a twelve year period to 2012 found that just 4% - 6% of parents aborted their babies. This is in Sharp contrast to the 50% rate in The Rotunda Hospital. What are they doing wrong? Any hospital can offer Perinatal Hospice care, it is simply standard for these mothers and babies. The 8th Amendment ensured that abortion was not an expectation in the case of a severe disability, and said that better care – perinatal hospice care. I does not cost anything and brings the gift of time, and a bridge to healing for families who received such. We need to protect the 8th. It protects those with no voice and at times I was distressed, not knowing the outcome of my pregnancy and I worried that if abortion had been pushed on me would I have given in. That is where the 8th protected us both. Liadán is my greatest gift, she gave me a new outlook on life. She is my precious little girl. Her illness did not make her any less important or loved. DO NOT BE DECEIVED “If the 8th is repealed due to life- limiting conditions, as the politicians are telling us, then babies like Liadán should not be allowed to live and the kindest thing to do is to abort them. Don’t be deceived into thinking that abortion is going to be restricted. Babies with Down Syndrome are being aborted up to nine months gestation. That is not propaganda, that is a fact. In the UK, 90% of babies with Down Syndrome are aborted. “This is not what we want for Ireland, this is not what we want for our children. If Liadan had been aborted, I would not be here this evening; I would not have met the fantastic people I have met, I would not have come on this amazing journey that she has taken me on, so how can anyone tell me that she does not matter or that she is only a clump of cells, or she does not know any different. “How can something that does not matter have this much impact. Thousands of people know Liadán’s story now. “Please do not be afraid! Shout out that you are pro-life. Talk to people, show them leaflets; give them information. People are being led blind into this and we need to talk about it. We need to protect these babies.” (Issued by the Dungarvan Pro-Life group).

The 8th Amendment in the Irish Constitution treats the baby in the mother’s womb as a Human just like you and me. If we allow the 8th to be deleted, the baby is no longer a Human and can be “legally” aborted for any reason right up to Birth. Over the coming weeks, Dungarvan ProLife will be actively campaigning against our Government’s attempts to introduce UNLIMITED abortion for ANY reason into Ireland. GET THE TRUTH, Search for Dungarvan ProLife on Facebook VOTE4LIFE – IRELAND SAYS NO

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

Pictured (l. to r.): Jeremy Meehan with BT trophy, Simon Meehan, Micheál Ó Draighneáin, Principal of Ballinora NS, Simon's Primary School, presenting a special piece of glass to Simon in recognition of his win; Brigid Meehan. (Picture posted on Twitter by Scoil Bhailenóra).

Young Scientist winner and the Youghal connection By Christy Parker THE father of BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (BTYSTE) of the Year Simon Meehan hails from Youghal it has emerged and the family regularly enjoy trips to the town and to west Waterford. Simon, a 15 year old transition year student at Coláiste Choilm, Ballincollig, took the honours with his discovery that blackberry leaf extract may be capable of controlling harmful bacteria. The finding could, in time, influence a wide range of medical procedures, including developing an antidote to the deadly SARS virus. Simon’s dad is Jeremy Meehan, formerly of the front strand Youghal and the younger of two children born to Diana and Patrick (Paddy) Meehan in 1959. He and his wife Brigid have also a second son, Senan, aged 12. Paddy Meehan, originally from Co. Clare, served with the Irish Guards in Britain and later with the Palestine and Malay police forces. Returning to Youghal in 1948, he married Diana (Nee Gough). Diana had worked in London’s prestigious Liberty’s store and on moving to Youghal she worked for many years in Murray Kitchens. She also ran a B&B in the Strand. Jeremey has been a teacher in Cobh and spent 12 years with Irish aid agency Bóthar, during which he established a multilevel education programmes that considerably boosted the recipients’ incomes and profiles. His tenure also saw him serve in various directorships, including education, grants & evaluations and project development. He later trained in CELTA (Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults), becoming Head of Language Department at Cork’s Griffith College. He progressed to UCC’s Adult Continuing Education Centre where he co-ordinated a course on Autism Studies. He is now an administrator in UCC’s Mature Student Office, preparing adults – many of them foreign nationals – for standard English exams that

will certify their requisite level of English to apply for jobs, etc. Brigid, who hails from Bandon and married Jeremey in Rome in 1990, is a microbiologist at UCC. Her father Eddie, 83, has long been a renowned connoisseur of herb and played a major role in young Simon’s interest in plants. “Eddie, who would extract the medical parts from plants, was a rural science teacher and Simon accompanied him on many walks and studies”, says Jeremy. “He is a huge part of the story.” MEMORY LANES Family trips to the Youghal region rekindle happy childhood memories for Jeremy. The family home had been large and atmospheric and he remembers “lying in bed at night listening to the wind whistling through the electricity cables outside. And when a south westerly wind and a full tide coincided”, he continues, “I’d hear the waves crashing against the sea wall. The whole house would give a shudder; magic!” His also recalls skating on thin ice – literally – when nearby bogs froze over and making rafts from pallets and collecting spent cartridges at Youghal’s rifle range. “Or we might put pennies on the railway tracks so the train wheels would flatten and enlarge them” he laughs. The pennies might be the proceeds from collecting glass bottles for refunds or even “flogging boxes of cigarette butts we collected!” On another day he might mess around with heads of beet,“wondering how they made sugar out of them” – a mystery Simon Jnr. probably solved at two! Jeremy remembers “a miniPerks” on waste ground near his home too, with swing baits, a slide and chair-o-planes. “I got my first job there at the age of 8!”, he says. “A Mrs. Fry paid me £1/6d a week!” He could have derailed a train with that. At 13 he worked in Murray Kitchens, processing selfassembly furniture. A Summer later he was pouring pints in Moby Dick’s bar, recalling how “coach loads of Americans would file in to use the toilets, buy half

pints of Guinness and sometimes ask to buy the Moby Dick memorabilia!” Proprietor Paddy Linehan’s endearing idiosyncrasies left their own memories. Once, as staff and customers watched a TV programme satirising religious figures, they could also hear Paddy on the phone berating RTE for broadcasting it! Other jobs in those youthful years included caddying at Youghal Golf Club and it was all, he says, in line with his own and his father’s view that “experiencing working responsibilities at an early age is beneficial for personal development.” Later pursuits would see him windsurf towards Capel Island on a summer’s evening, where he found that “the solitude just fantastic.” WEST WATERFORD VISITS Childhood is universal and its attributes constant but Jeremy’s sons live by different parameters. Yet while he may have been more likely to pick plants in a bog than skate on it, Simon “has always enjoyed his visits to Youghal”, says his father. “He has fished for crabs off the quays with butcher bones and then raced them off the slips!”, he affirms. “And it’s not just here; west Waterford too has timeless qualities. Ardmore is just beautiful. We’ve done that cliff many times and of course we drive the Vee.” In the wake of Simon’s success, Jeremey says his son “has shown qualities I didn’t know he had” in dealing with a sudden onslaught of media attention. “He had to adopt a whole new set of skills that he had not been taught”, he reflects, “and he did it excellently. We hope it may encourage others to take on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) subjects.” In out-researching his rivals, Simon received a cheque for €7,500, a BTYSTE perpetual trophy and a visit to the WWII coding centre in Bletchley Park, Milton Keynes. He will also represent Ireland at the European Union Contest for Young Scientists at the RDS in September.

Pictured is Sophie Duhig, daughter of Ger and Margaret Duhig, who recently graduated from University of Limerick with a Masters Degree in International Management and Global Business.

No Place Like Home By Mandy Tompkins BIRDS need safe places to raise their young and gardens provide some of the best habitats. Ideally there should be a choice of potential sites that different species can use, thick hedges for Sparrows, walls covered with climbers for Blackbirds and Thrushes, hollow tree trunks for Tits and Sheds and Outbuildings for Robins and Swallows. In suburban gardens however, where trees and hedges are scarce or there are brand new gardens, nest boxes are vital, and a nest box put up in Winter before the breeding season, in the right position, protected from predators and the worst of the weather will attract most species. The traditional nest box is ideal and can be purchased from the local Pet Shop, Hardware Store or made quite simply at home by a DIY enthusiast. The size of the hole determines which breed will use it. A 25mm hole would suit Coal tits and Wrens, 29mm Blue Tits and 32mm Great Tits and Sparrows. A simple ledge or shelf made from a plank of untreated wood such as old skirting or floor board and fixed to a wall behind climbing plants with brackets is ideal for Blackbirds, Thrushes and Sparrows. An open fronted box, where the front panel covers only the bottom half of the nest box, is preferred by Pied Wagtails and Robins, although these boxes are more vulnerable to predators and need to be placed with care.

They are best suited to sheer walls, preferably among climbing plants for concealment, but Sheds, Garages or Outbuildings with permanent access through a high open window gives great protection. Nest boxes that are attached to bird tables are not a good idea because birds will not nest above a busy feeding station. All nest boxes must be securely fixed facing North, East or South East to avoid strong sun and driving rain, and at least 2.5 metres off the ground out of reach of cats and other predators. Once a nest box is erected it should not be disturbed. Parent birds will abandon disturbed nests. Clean out the nest box at the end of the Autumn, and when it is clean and dry put in a handful of wood shavings or dry grass to provide a cosy Winter roost for Wrens.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

NEWS

Praying a Public Rosar y for Ireland PLEASE JOIN US Ireland is at an historic crossroad. Secularists are trying to push God from the public square. They reject His action upon society. We must stop the secularists advance and pray to God for help. He will hear us, if we pray through the intercession of His Blessed Mother. That’s why we have launched the Public Square Rosary Crusade.

WILL BE HELD IN

GRATTAN SQUARE, DUNGARVAN ON SATURDAY, 10th FEBRUARY AT 4.00 p.m. Co-ordinated nationally by Ireland Needs Fatima Email: rosary.rally@isfcc.org | Tel. 01 842 9640 or find us on Facebook

JOE COFFEY Blinds & Curtains

Pictured after graduating with a MSc in Biomedical Device Materials from the University of Limerick is Vincent Fitzgerald, Stradbally, with his parents Martin and Imelda and grandparents Tom and Cecilia Hearne.

Damage to boundary walls and fences responsibility of owner, not the Council DAMAGE caused to private property, whether it is a boundary wall or fence adjoining Council land, is the responsibility of the owner, the recent Plenary meeting of the local authority was told. Cllr. Adam Wyse had queried responsibility for a damaged fence on land adjoining Council-owned land. Cllr. Declan Doocey also queried the upkeep or replacement of timber railings which were erected in the ’60s and ’70s when sightlines or bad bends were removed from roads. Director of Services, Michael Quinn, responding to Cllr.Wyse, said

a private boundary fence, whether it adjoins Council land or not, is the responsibility of the owner of the property, not the Council. “We can certainly look at a particular case if there is rationale to it, but generally, damage to private property is the responsibility of the owner of the private property,” he said. Likewise, Director of Services, Fergus Galvin, responding to Cllr. Doocey, said where fences occupy a property, the general principal of law is that responsibility for maintenance rests with the owner of the property and not the Council.

New Dental Clinic opens in Ballybricken PAT Garvey, Clinical Dental Technician, is the owner of the recently opened City Denture Clinic in Ballybricken. A Tramore native, he is the son of Paddy and Marcella Garvey. Pat lives in Tramore with his wife and two boys. Pat’s career in the dental industry began when he travelled to study Dental Technology in Southampton City College England. After three years of study, he graduated with a diploma and subsequently found work in Bristol before travelling

to work in Australia.The prospect of furthering his education arose when he successfully applied for a postgraduate course in Clinical Dental Technology at the Dublin Dental University Hospital Trinity College. Upon graduating he set his sights on finding a suitable location to open a Denture Clinic in Waterford. With the purchase of 43 Ballybricken completed, he set about transforming this 200 year old building into a modern clinic and laboratory. “The locals have been very supportive of me in my endeavours to transform and establish a business in Ballybricken”. Pat is delighted with the location of his new clinic, “for me I couldn’t have found a better location in Waterford. Ballybricken is great with ample parking just outside the front door, proximity to the city centre and easy access to and from surrounding areas”. City Denture Clinic can now offer a range of services direct to the public, including new den-

tures, relines and repairs, antisnoring device, sports guards and night guards, for people who grind their teeth. “The big difference for patients coming to our clinic is that all our work is carried out in our on-site laboratory where alterations can be carried out chairside”.

“At our clinic we discuss your denture goals, your expectations, your questions and the best treatment options available for you. We will guide you in your choices towards the dentures that best suit your budget and your goals. Every denture is unique and is created specifically for you with all your needs in mind.”

058 41506 | 087 0518333 27 GRATTAN SQUARE, DUNGARVAN Joe Coffey Blinds and Curtains are proud to offer an extensive selection of blinds, curtains and fabrics. • Roller Blinds • Venetians • Verticals • Roman Blinds • Ready made curtains • Custom made curtains • Fabrics • Curtain Poles • Plantation Shutters • Haberdashery • Oil cloth • Bedding To make way for new stock we are currently offering 30%–60% off bedding and oil cloth ALSO A LARGE SELECTION OF READY-MADE CURTAINS REDUCED TO CLEAR Call in store to talk to our staff and arrange a free consultation and measurement Or call us on 058 41506 or email joecoffeyblinds@gmail.com FIND US ON FACEBOOK

CITY DENTURE CLINIC

43 BALLYBRICKEN, TEL. 051-858679 PROFESSIONALLY MADE DENTURES ALL MANUFACTURED IN OUR IN-HOUSE DENTAL LABORATORY

PAT GARVEY CDT

FREE

COMPLETE AND PARTIAL DENTURES SAME DAY REPAIRS AND ADDITIONS CONSULTATIONS CHROME AND TITANIUM DENTURES ON ALL MOUTH AND NIGHT GUARDS NEW TEETH BLEACHING TRAYS DENTURES ANTI-SNORING DEVICE

Pat Garvey, Clinical Dental Technician.

Parking available outside clinic Wheelchair accessible

OPEN SATURDAYS AND LATE OPENING THURSDAY www.citydentureclinic.ie

MOTORING New car registrations for January are down in County Waterford CAR sales figures for the month of January show 181 registrations for Co. Waterford are down from 1,015 to 985 on the same period last year, representing a decrease of 2.96%. Nationally, 181 registrations are down -4.8% (37,125) compared to January 2017 (39,003). Light Commercials are currently up 6.3% (6,728) compared to January last year (6,329), while HGV (Heavy Goods Vehicle) registrations are down -11.84% (402) in comparison to January 2017 (456). The SIMI/DoneDeal Report highlights a number of price decreases in the cost of motoring. The average price of a new car in 2017 was 2% lower than a year earlier, while the cost of motor insurance in December 2017 was 10.9% lower than it was a year earlier. However, the cost of fuel increased with Petrol prices up 4.2% and Diesel prices up 3.6% last year. The report also shows Ireland’s strong economic performance last year but despite high levels of consumer confidence, the Motor Industry faced a significant and uncertain year with monthly declines in new car registrations figures, reflecting the substantial impact of Brexit. Used car imports increased by 29.5% in 2017 aided by the weakness in sterling and this also impacted on new car sales volumes by dampening the residual value of Irish used cars this increasing the

• 181 January car sales drop by 2.96% in Waterford • Nationally sales dip by 4.8 • 2018 forecast of new car sales 118,220 -10%, used import market 114,950 +20% • New car registrations 2017, totalled 131,355 -10.4% on 2016 • €1.49 Billion Exchequer contribution from car sales 2017 -1.5% on 2016 • Cost of Motoring: Average price of a new car down 2%, Petrol prices up 4.2%, • Diesel prices up 3.6% on December 2016, Insurance Costs December 2017 10.9% lower than December 2016. Average motor insurance costs in December 2017 41.7% higher than December 2013. • DoneDeal Motor Ads published in 2017: 1,065,699. 7% increase from 2016. • The Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) issued the official 181 new vehicle registration figures for January along with their final SIMI/DoneDeal Quarterly Motor Industry Review of 2017. cost to change for consumers. Looking ahead to 2018, economic factors look positive however Brexit related uncertainty looks set to continue. Jim Power Economist and author of the SIMI/DoneDeal Report commented: “In normal circumstances, the positive economic backdrop would be expected to deliver growth of up to 10% in the new car market in 2018. However, the distortionary impact of sterling weakness and the associated surge in used imports from the UK will in all

likelihood more than offset the positive economics. For 2018, the used import market is projected to grow by 20% to reach 114,950. New car registrations in 2018 are forecast at 118,220, which would represent a decline of 10% on the 2017 outturn.” Director General of SIMI - Alan Nolan further commented:“2017 finished down 10.4% as anticipated and also recorded a shift in the market-share of Diesel cars from 70% to 65%. The same trends have been apparent in January’s new car

sales, which have delivered a steady start to the 181registration period but Brexit has continued to impact with new car sales down 4.8% while used car import registrations are up 20% compared to January last year. Diesel continues to be the choice of engine for over half of Irish new car buyers however the noticeable trend towards petrol and hybrid vehicles which started last year has continued in 2018. We expect this pattern of sales mix to continue for the rest of the year. While the number of Electric cars registered in January (104) shows a decline on January 2017 (168), this is a timing issue with supply and later new model delivery dates. The Sector remains confident that EV registrations will increase significantly in 2018.” Simon Andreucetti, Strategic Account Director of DoneDeal’s Motor section highlighted:"With a projected year-on-year sales surge of 20% in 2018, the statistics in this report highlight the impact that the used import market is having on the Irish motor landscape. The tax take from used car sales was up 34% last year, and, on DoneDeal, we too have continued to see growth, with over 1.1 million car ads placed on the site in 2017. This represents an increase of 7.5% compared to 2016 and now, just over one in every two motor ads placed on DoneDeal is by a car dealer."

John Foley AutoSales Waterford Garda Traffic SPRINGMOUNT, DUNGARVAN, CO. WATERFORD Corps numbers fall by 086-2585922 | email: jfk@cablesurf.com 50% under FG – Butler 141 Skoda Fabia 1.2 Petrol 5-door 50k miles blue …………………….. €8,950 132 Skoda Yeti 2.0 TDi Estate 35k miles silver ………………………... €14,500 131 Dacia Duster Laureate 1.5 Diesel 24k miles blue ……………… €13,995 2010 VW Golf 1.6 TDi Bluemotion 5-door new NCT 70k miles ……… €9,650 2010 Toyota Yaris 1.3 Automatic new NCT 53,353 miles ……………… €7,995 2010 Toyota Yaris 1.0 5 door Automatic 89km new NCT ……………… €6,995 2009 Toyota Auris 1.3 Petrol only 31,567 mls. new NCT exceptional . €7,299 2009 VW Golf 1.4 Petrol 5-door new NCT 77k miles …………………... €7,250 2005 Peugeot 206 5 door 1.1 new NCT ………………………………… €1,250 2005 Toyota Yaris 1.3 5 door only 40k miles new NCT ……………… €3,895 2002 VW Golf 1.8 GTi 5 door black ……………………………………….. €1,375 1999 Nissan Micra Automatic ……………………………………………….. €650 • ALL CARS OVER €2,000 CARRY WARRANTY • FINANCE AVAILABLE ON CARS POST 2010 • ALL CARS FULLY SERVICED

NUMBER OF OFFICERS ATTACHED TO ROADS POLICING CONTINUES TO FALL WATERFORD TD, Mary Butler has said that she is deeply concerned about the low number of Garda Traffic Corps members in Waterford City and County, and is calling on the Government to ensure that the division is adequately supported to improve road safety. Deputy Butler was commenting after her party learned that there has been a 50% cut in the number of traffic corps members in the county between 2010 and 2017. The information obtained through parliamentary questions show that the number of Gardaí assigned to the Traffic Corps has declined. In 2010 there were 26 officers dedicated to roads polic-

ing in the west of the country. This declined to 13 in 2017. “The new information I have obtained clearly shows that the Traffic Corps in An Garda Síochána is significantly understaffed, with the number of officers dedicated to traffic policing continuing to fall year on year. The drop in the number of Gardaí assigned to roads policing duties is disproportionate when compared to other areas of the force. It seems that road policing and safety isn’t really a priority for this Government. “The Road Safety Authority in particular has highlighted the need for a substantial increase in the number of Gardaí assigned to the Traffic Corps. Fine Gael has

instead presided over a continuous erosion of the capacity of the Traffic Corps and their Independent colleagues haven’t batted an eyelid in relation to this. “The Government points to the reopening of the Garda College in Templemore as evidence of progress in bolstering the strength of An Garda Síochána. However all of the information Fianna Fáil has received to date clearly highlights that the Traffic Corps has not benefited from an increase in resources. Instead quite the opposite is occurring, with the number of officers assigned to the Traffic Corps actually continuing to fall” concluded Butler.

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

Car Sales Government needs Pa Moore pamoorecarsales.ie ALL TRADE-INS WELCOME • FINANCE AVAILABLE to provide more secure funding for Text Alert system UNLESS community group initiatives are funded, such as the Text Alert system, then they are destined to fail - was the message coming out of the recent meeting of Waterford City and County Joint Policing Committee. Donal Murphy, representative of the PPN (Public Participation Network) on the JPC outlined that the PPN have written to the Minister in regards to funding community group initiatives such as the Text Alert system, which has proved to be a valuable tool in helping the Gardaí fight rural crime. He said the Minister indicated that funding would be diverted into Muintir na Tíre, which would be worth around €150 to those community groups registered with Muintir na Tíre. Mr. Murphy said the Minister also refused to meet a delegation from Waterford to discuss the matter. He said his representations were to seek funding on a national basis, not just from a Waterford perspective, and around €500 a group was being sought on a more permanent basis. “We need something set in stone for funding on a permanent basis - we can’t be dependent on the Council to say we have ‘X’ amount this year as there could be more groups seeking funding. We need something from the government on a permanent basis,” Mr. Murphy told the JPC.

Contact: EDDIE FITZGERALD 086 3821270 JOHN C. FLOOD 087 6684474 OPEN 6 DAYS Monday – Friday 9.00 a.m. – 5.30 p.m. Saturday 9.00 a.m. – 1.00 p.m.

He said there was very high set up costs for groups trying to start up a community alert. “Unless community groups are funded, we are going no place,” Mr. Murphy added. Cllr. Declan Doocey said both himself and Senator Paudie Coffey are working on the issue and Senator Coffey is after applying to the Joint Oireachtas Committee to see if he can move the issue further along. “Hopefully we will hear more news about that soon,” Cllr. Doocey said. COMMUNITY SAFETY NETWORK Meanwhile, Breda Halligan, PPN, told the JPC that it is hoped this year will see more activity in the setting up of the Community Safety Network (CSN). She said the involvement of more communities, residents groups, and other organisations with the PPN will help make the CSNs far more proactive. “The plan is to build a database of all the community and voluntary organisations and create the safety network. If the CSN is to succeed it needs to be inclusive of all residents and community groups as well as the Gardaí,” she said. “We are getting co-operation from the Gardaí as well as the community and the local authority. If these three groups can work together, then yes, we can actually progress this,” Ms. Halligan added.

12 Peugeot 5008 7 SEATER DIESEL Black 12 Opel Astra 1.3 DIESEL Silver 5DR 11 Ford Mondeo ZETEC 1.6 Diesel Silver 11 Mondeo TDCI Silver 1.6 DIESEL Silver 11 Megane 1.5 DIESEL H/B Silver 11 Nissan Juke 1.5 Diesel Black 5DR H/B 11 Peugeot 207 1.4 Diesel Grey 5DR 10 Citroen Picasso 7 SEATER 1.6 DIESEL 10 Avensis 2.0 D4D Strata Grey Saloon 4DR 10 Avensis 2.0 D4D Strata Silver Saloon 10 Toyota Yaris 1.0L Black 5DR 10 Ford Focus 1.6 Diesel Hatchback 09 Peugeot 207 DIESEL Grey 5DR H/B 09 Avensis 2.0 DIESEL Grey Saloon D4D 09 Toyota Auris 1.4 Black 5DR H/B 09 Citroen Picasso 1.6 DIESEL Gold 09 Peugeot 407 1.6 DIESEL Wine

08 Toyota Corolla 1.4 Saloon Silver 08 Toyota Auris 1.4 Black 5DR H/B 08 Opel Astra 1.4 H/B Wine 5DR 08 Opel Astra 1.7 DIESEL Black H/B 08 Kia Sportage 2.0 DIESEL Silver H/B 07 Kia Carens 2.0 Diesel 7 Seater 07 Mercedes E320 3.0 DIESEL AUTO 07 Nissan Almera 1.5 Saloon Silver 06 Skoda Fabia 1.4 DIESEL ESTATE 06 Nissan Almera 1.5 H/B Black 06 Toyota Corolla Verso 1.6 7 Seater 06 Hyundai Coupe 1.6 Red 3DR H/B 06 Opel Zafira 7 SEATER DIESEL 06 Honda Accord 2.2 DIESEL Black 06 Peugeot 307 1.6 3DR Silver 05 Peugeot 206 1.1 Black 5DR 03 Peugeot 206 AUTOMATIC Black 5DR

FINANCE ARRANGED pamoorecarsales.ie Tel: 087-9425791

DUNGARVAN NISSAN YOUGHAL ROAD, DUNGARVAN • 058 44888 www.dungarvan-nissan.com

NISSAN LEAF

BRAND NEW MICRA N OW A VA I L A B L E

Free Home Charging Unit Very low cost of ownership (little servicing required, low road tax, zero emissions) FREE PARKING WATERFORD CITY & COUNTY Available low rates of finance From

€69 Weekly

We deal with AIB, BOI, First Citizen, Close Motor, RCI, Bluestone, Alphera FOR CAR AND VAN LOANS We can arrange finance Best rates availalbe

171 Nissan Juke Diesel €21,000

2015 Mini Cooper 1.5 Diesel €20,950

Nissan Xtrail 162 €29,950 SVE 7 Seater 1.6 Diesel

Nissan Qashqai 161 SV Spec 1.5 Diesel €21,950

151 White Juke 1.5 Dsl. SV €16,500

161 Black NV200 Van 1.5 Diesel €15,950

2008 Audi A3 1.6 Petrol €6,950

2012 Ford Fiesta white 1.4 Diesel €10,250

141 Renault Megane 1.5 Diesel Auto €16,500 only 39K

2012 Ford Transit Connect Van €9,500

Artic White BMW 320 2.0 Diesel low mileage leather €19,995

2009 1.6 Ford Fusion Auto Petrol €8,750

142 Audi A1 1.6 Diesel €14,750

2011 VW Golf 1.6 Diesel 3DR €11,995 Available €49.99 Weekly Scrappage Deal 60 Months

151 Toyota Corolla 1.8 Auto Petrol €18,500

Demo Navara SVE Connect €37,000

172 Fiat Tipo 1.4 Petrol €16,750 only 8,300kms • 5 year warranty

2016 Nissan Xtrail 7 Seater SV 1.6 Diesel €26,950

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

The AGM of the Daffodil Day Committee took place in the Holy Cross pub on Wednesday, January 24th. The committee was elected for the forthcoming year Des Daunt as Chairperson; Marie Cummins as Vice Chairperson; Nellie Griffin as Secretary and Jeanne McNamara as Treasurer. Mark Mellett, head of fundraising for Irish Cancer Society, and Nicola McMahon Munster fundraising officer for Irish Cancer Society were both in attendance. Mark Mellett spoke to the group on money being invested in cancer research development and the Daffodil Centre at WUH. This facility is providing night nurses and drivers for those in great need especially for those people in more remote areas. The money raised in Waterford by you supporting coffee mornings, community events and Daffodil Day itself came to a total of over €75,000 last year and this money is spent in Waterford. Nicola McMahon spoke to the meeting on merchandise that will be available for Daffodil Day consisting of daffodil silks, pins, pens, cards, ceramic mugs, shopping trolley keys, and tea towels. We on the Daffodil Day committee wish to thank you all most sincerely for your very generous support last year and especially over the last 30 years. Without all of your volunteering, support, help, and donations we would not be able to give to those of us who are in greater need. Thank you to Bobby Bohill and his staff in the Holy Cross for their generous sponsorship of the room along with tea and coffee for our AGM. Daffodil Day this year is on Friday, March 23rd. We look forward to seeing you all again this year. [John Power]

RTE’s Nationwide films National Active Retirement Ireland Committee Tours of Waterford By Richard Cutbill TOM Hickey and I met the National Active Retirement Ireland Committee during their tour of central Waterford with Waterford Camino Tours. We teamed up with them at the Durrow entrance to the Greenway and walked along and through the (now famous) Durrow Tunnel. Tom Hickey the local historian gave a very interesting talk on the construction of the tunnel, railway and local history. This thrilled our visitors as he was asked many questions, such was their interest they could have been there for hours. Their excellent tour guide Phil Brennan (Waterford Camino) had to get them to keep up to their schedule for the next visit location. Before coming to the Greenway they had been to Mahon Falls and were moving on to Tramore Lafcadio Hearn

Japanese Gardens via the Copper Coast. An excellent day-out put together by Phil Brennan and Elaine Harvey (Waterford Camino Tours) bringing coach loads of visitors to our beautiful city and county, and hopefully keeping them in the locality for a few days. The Durrow Section of their tour was reported and filmed for RTE Nationwide by the Award winning duo Susie O’Keeffe with camera man Brian, and is scheduled to be shown in March. Susie also interviewed the President and Vice President of Active Retirement Ireland. President Kay Murphy said ‘We all had a wonderful time and would most certainly promote this area to our members and other groups. I can only conclude by congratulating Phil Brennan and Elaine Harvey (Waterford Camino Tours) and hope they bring thousands of Tourist to our City and County.

Kay Murphy, President ARI; Michael Maher, Vice President ARI being interviewed by Susie O’Keeffe, RTE presenter with cameraman Brian. Background [Richard Cutbill] ARI Committee and Tom Hickey.

Tom Hickey, Stradbally Secretary ARI and local historian; Michael Maher, Vice President ARI; Evelyn Kelly, Shannon; Mary Margaret O’Dea, Shannon; Kay [Richard Cutbill] Murphy, National President ARI; Margaret Maher, Newcastle; Marie Haughan, Newcastle; Phil Brennan, Waterford Camino.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

Supreme Court reserves judgement in appeal to quash corruption conviction Dungarvan District Court Road traffic prosecutions EXCEEDING a special speed limit near Dungarvan resulted in a fine for a driver. Neil Moriarty (33) with an address at 24 Rosebay, Forest Hill, Carrigaline, Cork, was fined €150 at last week’s Dungarvan District Court, for failing to pay a fixed charge penalty notice, which issued after the vehicle he was driving was detected by Gardaí to be travelling in excess of 60 km/h at Windgap, Dungarvan, on 14th May, 2017. The accused, who attended court, admitted he received the fixed charge penalty notice, but failed to deal with it. The accused has previous convictions, but none for speeding. •••••• A SPEEDING charge was struck out when a motorist made a donation to the court poor box. Denis O’Sullivan (35) with an address at The Orchard, Dromkeen, Innishannon, Cork, told last week’s Dungarvan District Court that he never received a fixed charge penalty notice, which issued after his vehicle was detected by Gardaí to be travelling at 93 km/h in a 60 km/h zone at Windgap, Dungarvan, on 14th May, 2017. The accused, who was in court, admitted the speeding offence, but said he never received the fine. A €200 donation was made to the court poor box and Judge Terence Finn struck out the charge. •••••• A WOMAN who exceeded a special speed limit was fined in court last week. Martina Murphy (51) with an address at Whitechurch, Glynn, Enniscorthy, Wexford, was fined €160 at last week’s Dungarvan District Court for failing to pay a fixed charge penalty notice, which issued after her vehicle was detected travelling at 88 km/h in a 60 km/h zone at Windgap, Dungarvan, on 18th June, 2017. The accused, who attended court last week, told Judge Terence Finn that she never received the fixed charge penalty notice in the post. However, Judge Finn explained that since June, 2017, new legislation has been enacted which gives an offender a third payment option to deal with the matter before it goes to court. Usually the speeding fine

(€80) is to be paid within 28 days; or €120 within 56 days. The third option is for the offender to pay €160 for the speeding fine to avoid a court appearance. The accused admitted the speeding offence. Judge Finn handed down a €160 fine, pointing out that the court fine is the same amount as the third payment option, which would have avoided the court appearance if she had initially paid it. •••••• A FINE was handed down to a Dungarvan woman who had no tax on her vehicle. Louise Monahan (28) with an address at 5 George’s Court, Dungarvan, was fined €60 at last week’s Dungarvan District Court failed to pay a fixed charge penalty notice, which issued after Gardaí observed her vehicle without a current tax disc displayed on the N25 at Shandon, Dungarvan, on 13th May, 2017. The court heard the tax on display had expired in October, 2015. The accused, who was in court, said she has paid the tax. She said she left it too late to pay the fixed charge penalty notice. •••••• A MOTORIST was given a court fine last week for not having tax on his vehicle. Kevin Kiely (29) with an address at Knockacullen, Cappagh, County Waterford, was fined €250 at last week’s Dungarvan District Court for failing to pay a fixed charge penalty notice, which issued after Gardaí observed his vehicle without a current tax disc at Colligan, Dungarvan, on 22nd May, 2017. The court heard that the tax on display had expired in October, 2015. •••••• A DRIVER was fined in court last week in relation to a speeding offence. Ned Cash (21) with an address at Doononey, Adamstown, Wexford, was fined €350 at last week’s Dungarvan District Court for failing to pay a fixed charge penalty notice, which issued after his vehicle was detected exceeding the special speed limit of 60 km/h at Windgap, Dungarvan, on 3rd February, 2017. The accused, who did not appear in court, has previous convictions, including one for a speeding conviction.

A FORMER Dungarvan-based Fine Gael politician who was previously convicted of receiving corrupt payments has appealed to the Supreme Court to quash his conviction. Fred Forsey junior (46) with an address at Coolagh Road, Abbeyside, Dungarvan, was previously convicted of receiving €60,000, €10,000 and €10,000 in three corrupt payments from a property developer in 2006. Forsey had denied the charges and pleaded not guilty at the time, claiming the sums of money were loans. A jury at Waterford Circuit Court found Forsey guilty of the charges in June, 2012, and he was sentenced by Judge Gerard Griffin to six years imprisonment, with the final two years suspended. In July, 2016, a three-judge Court of Appeal dismissed an appeal against Forsey’s

conviction on all grounds. In November, 2017, Forsey was granted legal aid to make an appeal to the Supreme Court. Last week, Forsey brought an appeal to the five-judge Supreme Court disputing the legality of a presumption of corruption against a holder of public office contained in Section 4 of the Prevention of Corruption Act. The prosecution had relied on the presumption in arguing that the section imposes an obligation on Forsey to disprove corruption. Forsey’s legal team, Remy Farrell and Hugh McDowell BL, raised another point in relation to the scope of an individual’s office or position in the context of a charge of corruption. Submissions by the legal team stated that

Forsey’s conviction should be quashed. Mr. Farrell said Forsey has served his sentence, which is the longest prison sentence for corruption ever handed down by Irish courts, and any issue of a retrial, if the conviction is quashed, would be a matter for the DPP. The appeal was opposed by Denis Vaughan Buckley SC and Noel Whelan BL, representing the DPP, who argued that the conviction should remain undisturbed. Mr.Vaughan Buckley said the prosecution case was overwhelming and the evidence was such to enable the jury to comfortably come to a unanimous view beyond all reasonable doubt that Forsey had committed the offences. The Supreme Court, after having heard both sides, reserved its judgement.

Accused’s denial in road tax prosecution a case of ‘Ripley’s Believe it or Not’ says Judge THE District Judge said a road traffic prosecution which came before him at the recent sitting of the District Court should have featured on ‘Ripley’s Believe it or Not’ after the accused claimed he was not in a vehicle which didn’t have a current tax disc. Kaylem Ryan (21) with an address at 81 St. Herblain Park, Waterford, had pleaded not guilty to a charge of failing to have a current tax disc displayed on a vehicle in a public place at Killnagrange, Kilmacthomas, on 21st February, 2017. At last week’s Dungarvan District Court, Judge Terence Finn was told that the Gardaí received an anonymous report which caused them to go to Killnagrange on the date in question. Garda Barnes, giving evidence said he went to the location and observed two Nissan Micras parked on the roadway. He said the accused was in the driver seat of one of the vehicles and another male was in the driver seat of the other Nissan Micra. He said the engines of the vehicles were not running. Garda Barnes noted that the vehicle in which the accused was seated had a tax disc displayed which was expired since June, 2016. He said the vehicle was seized and it was never recovered, and was later destroyed. The other Nissan Micra belonged to Drea Coady, a witness in the case. Garda Barnes said the two vehicles were parked at the side of a minor road connecting Kilmacthomas to Carrick-on-Suir. It was his understanding that the accused had come from a relative’s house where the Nissan Micra was stored and he was on his way to sell it. Garda Barnes confirmed that the registered owner of the vehicle was a local resident who lived a short distance away. Solicitor David Burke said his client denied sitting in the vehicle when the Garda came along and also denied driving the vehicle. Mr. Burke said his client has a full driving licence and was acting as qualified driver to the other individual, Drea Coady, who had a learner permit.

“A friend contacted my client to look at a Nissan Micra because he is involved in ‘hotrodding’ and these are the types of vehicles they use,” Mr. Burke said. “Hot-rodding is a regular occurrence, they pass through Dungarvan early on a Sunday morning.” Garda Barnes acknowledged that he did not see the accused driving any vehicle at the time. A charge of driving without insurance was struck out against the accused as there was no evidence of him driving the vehicle. However, Judge Finn pointed out that the vehicle was parked in a public place. “This vehicle was retrieved from storage and it found its way to the locus in question - it didn’t just drop out of the sky,” Judge Finn said. The accused, taking the witness stand, told the court that when the Garda arrived on the scene, he was standing by the vehicle. “The Garda told me to sit into the car while he dealt with my friend,” Ryan said. “I sat into the car for him to take my details.” Ryan said he was present at the scene with his friend, Drea Coady, to look at the vehicle, because they both have an interest in hotrodding, which uses Nissan Micras. Ryan said someone told them about the car, so he went to the location to check out the car. Inspector Larry Sheahan said if someone was going to check out a vehicle, the obvious logic is that they would want to test drive it as well. The accused denied this and said he was only checking the vehicle to see if there was anything wrong with it. He also denied having the key to the vehicle and maintained he was not in the vehicle when the Garda arrived, prompting Insp. Sheahan to say the accused’s story “is unbelieveable”. Answering questions from Judge Finn, the accused said his friend received a text about the vehicle and they went to the location to “check it out” and “look it over”. The accused said he didn’t know if the car

was running and he had no plan to drive it. The accused said he was standing beside the vehicle when the Garda told him to get into it. Judge Finn queried how the accused got into the vehicle if he had no key. “Was it locked? Did you use a key to get into it?” he asked. “No,” the accused replied. “The vehicle was unlocked. I didn’t know the whereabouts of the key.” Taking the witness stand, Drea Coady, the other individual at the location on the date in question, said he was contacted by text about the vehicle and they went to look at the vehicle to see the bodywork and if it had good tyres and no rust. He said the vehicle “has to be fairly alright” for hot-rodding. He said that they examined the car from the road and maintained that no-one was driving the other vehicle. “We were standing on the road when the Garda came along. He told me to get into my car and told Kaylem to get into the other car,” the witness stated. Insp. Sheahan put it to the witness that it was their intent “to take the vehicle for a spin”, but the witness denied this. Insp. Sheahan again stated the story was “unbelieveable”. Convicting the accused of the tax offence, Judge Finn said the case should feature on ‘Ripley’s Believe it or Not’. He noted that neither the accused nor the witness informed their ‘friend’, who had initially contacted them about the vehicle, that the vehicle had now been seized by the Gardaí. Judge Finn asked why the accused did not deal with the fixed charge penalty notice for the tax offence. “He wanted to put his case to the court,” Mr. Burke said. He said his client has no previous convictions. Judge Finn handed down a €250 fine. Recognisance was fixed in the event of an appeal.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

NEWS

Road traffic prosecutions Fined for operating at Dungarvan District car dismantling Court business without

A 59-YEAR-old Clonea Power man who was found driving without a licence and without L plates on two separate occasions was handed fines in court totalling €500. Liam Kavanagh, with an address at 18 Ballyneale, Clonea Power, Carrick-on-Suir, pleaded guilty to driving without a licence; failing to produce licence and the roadside and within ten days; and driving with no L plates, at Knockeylan, Lemybrien, on 4th February, 2017; and at Kilclooney, Kilmacthomas, on 5th February, 2017. Solicitor Martin Lavan explained that his client previously held a learner’s permit, but it had expired and he had subsequently lost it. He applied to have it replaced, but was told he had to start from scratch and sit the theory test. Mr. Lavan said his client has no previous convictions and is on disability. He said the accused is not driving until he can get his driving licence sorted. For driving without a licence, Judge Finn handed down a €150 on each of the two charges. For driving without L plates, a fine of €100 was handed down on each of the two charges. The rest of the charges were marked as proven and taken into consideration. •••••• A PLASTERER from Rathgormack who was found driving without insurance was put off the road for two years. John Foley (37) with an address at Ballinacurra, Rathgormack, County Waterford, pleaded guilty to driving without insurance when stopped by Gardaí at Mahonbridge, Lemybrien, on 24th April, 2017. At last week’s Dungarvan District Court, solicitor David Burke explained that his client did have an insurance policy in place, but it had lapsed for a short period of time because his client had no funds in the bank. “A policy was put in place a couple of days after he was stopped, but it does not cover him on the date in question,” Mr. Burke acknowledged. He said his client is a plasterer by profession. Judge Terence Finn said his hands are tied in relation to the disqualification, which is set out in legislation. He handed down a €200 fine and disqualified the accused from driving for two years. •••••• A RATHGORMACK driver who used a secondary vehicle that did not have tax was fined last week. James Kirwan (36) with an

address at Graigueaualla, Rathgormack, Co.Waterford, was fined €150 at last week’s Dungarvan District Court for failing to pay a fixed charge penalty notice, which issued after the vehicle he was driving did not have a current tax disc displayed when stopped by Gardaí at Shanakill, Rathgormack, on 18th April, 2017. Solicitor Martin Lavan said his client had misplaced the fixed penalty notice. He explained that the vehicle driven on the day was a secondary vehicle. “An emergency situation arose on the farm and my client had to use this secondary vehicle,” Mr. Lavan said. “The vehicle is no longer on the road and my client has no previous convictions,” he added. •••••• NOT having tax on the vehicle he was driving resulted in a fine for a Carrick-on-Suir driver. Noel Byrne (39) with an address at 10 Deerpark Close, Carrick-on-Suir, was fined €150 at last week’s Dungarvan District Court, for failing to pay a fixed charge penalty notice, which issued after Gardaí observed the vehicle he was driving did not have a current tax disc displayed at Mahonbridge, Lemybrien, on 8th June, 2017. The tax disc on display had expired in March, 2017. The court heard that the accused was driving a company van and was not the owner of the vehicle. The accused, who did not appear in court, has no previous convictions. •••••• A WOMAN who made a donation to the court poor box had a road traffic offence struck out. Bridget Condon (38) with an address at 22b Murphy Place, Abbeyside, Dungarvan, had pleaded guilty at a previous sitting of the District Court to driving without due care and consideration for other road users, contrary to Section 51 (A) of the Road Traffic Act (a charge which was reduced from careless driving contrary to Section 52 of the Road Traffic Act), at Dungarvan Shopping Centre, on 29th December, 2016. The court heard at the time the accused was working for a car valeting company and had reversed a client’s car towards the car wash, but she did not see a woman who was walking past and knocked her over. The accused made a donation of €300 to the court poor box and Judge Terence Finn struck out the charge at last week’s Dungarvan District Court.

•••••• A MAN who was detected speeding ended up with a court fine last week. David Curran (29) with an address at 55 Pairc na mBlath, Ballinroad, Dungarvan, was fined €200 at last week’s Dungarvan District Court for failing to pay a fixed charge penalty notice, which issued after his vehicle was detected travelling at 86 km/h in a 60 km/h zone at Garranbane, Dungarvan, on 3rd April, 2017. Garda Margaret Clifford told Judge Terence Finn that she stopped a vehicle driven by the accused for the speeding offence and issued a fixed charge penalty notice. A second penalty notice was issued because the vehicle was not displaying a current tax disc. Solicitor Niall King said his client acknowledges the speeding offence, but said when the fixed charge penalty notice was issued, he only received the one for the tax offence. “The speeding fine was not in the same envelope as the tax fine,” Mr. King said. He said his client discussed the matter with two other occupants who live at the same address, but they didn’t receive the post either. Taking the witness box the accused said if he had received the fixed penalty notice for speeding he would have paid it. Answering questions from Inspector Larry Sheahan, the accused said he had no difficulty with his post in the past. He said he was made aware, at a later date, that there was a summons issued, which he had to collect from the Garda Station and he didn’t know what the summons was for. Following questions from Judge Finn, the accused admitted that he failed to deal with the penalty notice for the tax offence and the matter went to a previous sitting of the District Court, where it was dealt with. When asked why he didn’t deal with the tax fine, the accused said it “slipped my mind”. Judge Finn said when the Garda stopped the accused, he was informed that he would be issued with two fixed penalty notices, one for the tax offence and the other for the speeding offence. “I cannot accept what the accused is saying, because he knew there would be two fixed charge penalty notices issued.The court convicts the accused,” Judge Finn said. The court heard the accused, who is self-employed, has no previous convictions. Judge Finn handed down the fine of €200. Recognisance was fixed in the event of an appeal.

permit A MAN who was operating a car dismantling business without a permit was fined in court last week and directed to pay €2,500 prosecution costs. Dorde Stevanovic (54) a Croatian national with an address at the Old Creamery, Ballydurn, Kilmacthomas, pleaded guilty to two charges under the Waste Management Act in relation to operating a car dismantling business without a permit at his address on 25th November, 2016. One charge related to the holding / transport / recovery or disposal of waste in a manner that causes, or is likely to cause environmental pollution, contrary to Section 32 of the Waste Management Act. The second charge related to the requirement to hold a waste licence under Section 39 of the Waste Management Act. An interpretor was present to translate the court proceedings to the accused. At last week’s Dungarvan District Court, Judge Terence Finn was told that the accused was operating a car dismantling business at Ballydurn without a permit. The court heard that a business which involves the dismantling of cars - End of Life Vehicles (ELVS) requires both planning permission and a Waste Facility permit from Waterford Council. The permit would have various environmental protection criteria relating to the safe storage of vehicles and requirements regarding the proper handling and disposal of fluids, such as oils, fuel, etc., and the proper disposal

of hazardous waste such as batteries, and the proper segregation and safe disposal of components for recycling, reuse, etc. The court heard there was a strong smell of diesel at the location and he was not using oil interceptors, meaning oil was leaking onto the ground and into surface water, causing pollution. A solicitor acting for the Council said there should have been containers on site for the oil and described broken glass and patches of oil around the site. The Council initially served a notice requiring the business to apply for a permit and meet the criteria, or cease operation. The accused failed to do either, and the Council initiated legal action under the Waste Management Act. The solicitor said there was dialogue between the Council and the accused before the offence date. “The accused did go to the Council but there was a serious language difficulty,” the solicitor said. “The site has now been restored.” The court heard that the accused does not have any previous convictions. Solicitor Niall King said his client has lived in Ireland for a number of years and worked all his life. “He has pleaded guilty at an early opportunity and he apologises for the inconvenience and the pollution caused,” Mr. King said. “He is no longer working and closed the business.

“My client never meant any harm. He tried to eke out a living.When he closed the business, he wasn’t a burden on the State.” Mr. King explained his client is not in good health. He said the accused is a separated man with two children. Mr. King appealed to the court to impose a realistic fine which his client could pay back. “He is not trained in anything else except breaking cars and that is heavy work, and due to his health problems, he is no longer able to work. I would ask the fine be a moderate amount and allow as much time as possible for him to pay,” Mr. King added. The Council’s solicitor outlined that the maximum fine in a case like this is €3,000 in each summons. Judge Finn said the Section 32 charge, relating to environmental pollution, was the more serious charge. He acknowledged the accused was trying to make a living, but pointed out that if the accused had carried out a similar operation in Croatia, “I believe there would be similar restrictions in place in relation to environmental pollution, since the country is now a member of the European Union”. He handed down a fine of €500 on the charge, and directed the accused to pay the Council’s prosecution costs of €2,500. He allowed six months for the accused to pay the fine and costs. The Section 39 charge was marked as proven and taken into consideration. Recognisance was fixed in the event of an appeal.

Community Service order for possession of a knuckle duster A MAN who admitted possession of a ‘knuckle duster’ was handed a Community Service order in lieu of a jail sentence. Garvan Dee (25) with an address at Marlpit Lodge, Aglish, Cappoquin, and formerly of 55 An Grianan, Ballinroad, Dungarvan, pleaded guilty to possession of a knuckle duster, contrary to Section 9 (4) of the Firearms and Offensive Weapons Act, when stopped by Gardaí on 20th January, 2017. At last week’s Dungarvan District Court,

Inspector Larry Sheahan said Gardaí stopped a vehicle and following a search located a knuckle duster. “The accused admitted ownership of the item,” Insp. Sheahan said.“It hadn’t been used and it wasn’t on display.” The court heard that the accused has previous convictions. Solicitor Niall King represented the accused. Judge Terence Finn handed down 100 hours Community Service in lieu of two months jail.

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

Man arraigned in Circuit Criminal Court over sexual assault Further Education Unsure which college course is for you? GENERAL STUDIES COURSE If you are unsure about what subject area to choose then this QQI level 5 course at CCN is for you. It was designed to give students the foundation skills to excel in a college course of their choice. The wide subject choice allows students to try out subject areas that are not part of the Leaving Certificate such as Legal Practice and Procedures and Research Skills. PREPARATION FOR THIRD LEVEL Many of the QQI modules use continuous assessment. Instead of relying on one exam at the end of the year, assignments or portfolios can make up most, if not all, of the marks for some modules. As there is the opportunity to receive feedback from the teachers it offers the chance to get up to 100% in the subject as well as learn how to prepare assignments. An essential skill not always taught on every degree course. WIDE CHOICE OF SUBJECTS The mandatory modules include Research and Study Skills, Word Processing, Communications and Work Experience. There is a choice of subjects to allow students to experience each subject area before they commit to a three year degree. Students then pick the rest of the modules. These could be as diverse as Economics, Child Psychology, Maths and Web Authoring. This year some students chose Legal Practice and Procedures, Social Studies, Human Growth and Behaviour and Mental Health Awareness as they are hoping to progress to Criminology and Social Science in UCC. There are places reserved just for students with a full QQI award. PROGRESSION OPPORTUNITIES This course has been designed to facilitate progression to third level and there are many options to choose from. Some third level institutions have places reserved for anybody with a QQI qualification. Higher Education Links scheme (HELS) gives learners the opportunity to use level 5 or 6 major awards to apply through the CAO for a place at a University or Institute of Technology. This information is available on their websites. Instead of using their Leaving Cert results, students use the results from their level 5 QQI award. Many students gain the maximum 390 points. Bachelor of Arts in UCC has 55 places reserved just for candidates with a full QQI award. Among the more varied options for progression include Applied Psychology in UCC or Dun Laoghaire, Health and Disability Studies in St Angela’s in Sligo or Community Development in CIT. RESERVED PLACES FOR CCN GRADUATES There is a direct link between Coláiste Chathail Naofa and WIT where they have reserved 10 places just for CCN graduates on their Bachelor of Arts Degree. Our fees are low at CCN which allows students to save money. Attending a course locally also means a saving on accommodation, parking and travel costs. All of this adds up to a year of saving to prepare for a three year degree. APPLY NOW We are currently accepting application forms for our next round of interviews in September.The application form is available from the school office or on our website at www.ccndungarvan.com which also has further details of all of our courses. Follow us on facebook at Coláiste Chathail Naofa – College of Further Education @ccnplc for the latest updates.

General Studies Students raising money during Mental Health Week.

A COUNTY Waterford man pleaded guilty when he was arraigned in the Circuit Criminal Court last week, with sexually assaulting his young daughter and possession of child porn. The man, who cannot be named for legal reasons in order to protect the identity of the victim, is aged in his fifties. The court heard the man had

possession of videos of children engaged in a sexual act on January 24th, 2015. He also pleaded guilty to sexually assaulting his daughter on a date between January 1st, 2014, and January 2015. Barrister Conor Roberts, defending, applied for bail for his client and said he had no previous convictions apart from one a road traffic matter. In the past

he engaged in counselling and had significant issues with depression and alcohol. An application was also made for a psychological report. For the DPP, Noel Whelan, BL., said the State had no objection to bail but added that there should be a bail condition forbidding the accused from having contact with the victim. Judge Eugene O’Kelly

directed that the accused man’s name be entered in the Register of Sex Offenders. He remanded the man on bail to April 10th next on condition that he had no contact with the injured party or her sibling. He also directed the preparation of a Probation and Welfare Report and granted the accused legal aid for the reparation of a psychological report.

Ex-rugby player pleads guilty to ‘classic street mugging’ of a smart phone AN ex-Waterpark and Welsh Dragon rugby player pleaded guilty in the Circuit Criminal Court last week to robbery and a “classic street mugging” of a smart phone in Waterford. Johathan Fitzgerald (25) with an address at No. 205, Elm Park, Clonmel, was sentenced to 18 months in prison with the final six months suspended for robbery and assault causing harm to Eoin Saddler (41) at Cork Road,Waterford, on August 29th, 2015. The court heard that the accused man was under the influence of drugs and alcohol and left a suicide note indicating that he planned to take his life. Sgt. James Toomey, Waterford, said on the night in question the injured party was approached by the accused man near McDonald’s Restaurant, who asked him for a lighter and a cigarette. Suddenly and without warning he punched the pedestrian a number of times in

the head. The injured man was left shaken and wary and suffered extensive bruising. The Gardaí were called and a couple took him to their B&B and he made a full recovery later. A victim impact report indicated that the violent incident had a far bigger effect on the injured man than he was willing to admit. He was now far more apprehensive on his own and was reluctant to go out walking and was taking taxies. When passing groups, which he perceived to be rowdy, he felt apprehensive. The incident was investigated by the armed detective unit and the accused denied being involved. But a HTC phone and case belonging to the injured party were found on him during a search. Det. Garda Steve Allen said the accused had previous convictions for robbery, burglary, theft, threatening behaviour and the unauthorised taking of a vehicle.

‘Have a Heart’ protest march this Saturday FIVE reasons to support this Cardiac Protest March in Waterford assembling Williamstown at 2.00 p.m. 1 You feel as a citizen living, working or visiting in the South East region that you are entitled to the same standard of cardiac health care as all others enjoy in this state, i.e. emergency cover and diagnostic services within 48 hours of hospital admission 2. You are angry at the deliberate discrimination against the 4 acute hospitals in the South East region, which are under-funded 30% pro rata to comparators in all other regions of the country – you understand the implications to health outcomes, patient care and the economic disadvantage that results to the region 3.You object to the deliberate and malign state interference in what was to be an independent and objective assessment review of the South East cardiac requirement (Herity Report). Recent evidence now shows this report was engineered by senior officials in the Dept of Health to quash the case for expanded South East cardiac services. In addition, you have no faith in a future national review being proposed which is to be constituted and run along similar lines

4 You feel annoyed that Capital funding of over 1.6 billion euro is being proposed to move 3 hospital systems in the Dublin metropolitan area (25% of the population) and yet 3 million Euro cannot be spent to add an additional Cath lab to expand the South East cardiac service for 10% of the population. This despite understanding that such expansion will clear all regional cardiac waiting lists, improve patient safety, improve health outcomes regionally and provide an out of hours emergency service for the regional population. 5 You regard healthcare as a significant life consideration now and into the future – you wish for you and family members to be able to have hospital treatment in your area, close to your loved ones and in a timely manner where possible, and you wish regional healthcare to be recognised by state structures and properly and equally resourced and managed into the future If none of these 5 reasons appeal to you can we suggest you check your pulse to see are you in fact alive to the issues of this region at all! We look forward to seeing all others there! Assemble close to WLR studios at 2.00 p.m.

The accused man’s mother, Lynda Byrne O’Riordan, said she had been subjected to domestic violence, which was witnessed by her son. His drug addiction spiralled out of control and he went into “rehab” to sober up. He suffered from severe depression and was in and out of psychiatric care. On the night in question they were staying in the Travel Lodge and she went to visit her mother. On her return she found a suicide note in which her son apologised for “letting her down”. She started to search the streets of Waterford for him and received a call to say he was in hospital. Barrister Tara Geoghegan, defending, said her client was under the influence of drugs when arrested and believed he was in Clonmel and not Waterford. He had no recollection of events and admitted taking the drugs Xanax and Benzodiazepine and drinking two litres of cider.

The attack was clearly a very frightening and unsettling experience and the accused was remorseful. On that night he was in a dark frame of mind and was on his way to end his life. He had a difficult childhood and was exposed to violence and his father left him at the age of seven which had a profound effect on him. But he had a warm relationship with his mother who travelled down from Belfast to give evidence on his behalf. Over Christmas he left the jurisdiction and went to the UK as his partner was due their second child. But he returned and handed himself over to the Gardaí. Judge O’Kelly described the unprovoked attack as a “classic street mugging”.The accused was half the age of the injured party and was of a larger stature. A significant aggravating factor was that there was a four year sentence suspended for six years that had been imposed on him for a similar offence.

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

Entries invited for 9th First Cut Youth Film Festival By Christy Parker THE next Moe Dunford, Saoirse Ronan or Martin McDonagh is out there somewhere. With that and many other thoughts in mind, young filmmakers in west Waterford and beyond are invited to submit entries for the 9th annual First Cut! Youth Film Festival being held at the Mall Arts Centre in Youghal in April. From a speculative beginning the annual festival has grown year by year into highly acclaimed four-day celebration of all matters cinematic, with over 800 visitors from across Ireland and abroad attending last year’s event. As a consequence the event is expanding from three to four days for 2018. The festival sponsors include the Cork Film Centre, the Arts Council/An Chomhairle Ealaíon, Cork County Council and over two dozen local busi-

nesses and enterprises. Submissions are accepted from 12 to 24 year-old film makers whose entries do not extend beyond 15 minutes. Participants can enter as many films as they wish and there is no entry fee. The only stipulation for entering is an interest in films. “Whether an individual filmmaker or part of a group, school or college doesn’t matter”, says project coordinator Mary McGrath, “everyone is welcome.” Entries from all film genres are invited and typically feature documentary, fiction, animation and music video. Dozens of screenings will be aired each day with awards covering several categories, including best film, director, music video, young adult film, animation, etc. This year’s music video section will be run in conjunction with leading Irish music video exponents Feel Good Lost, aka filmmaker Brendan Canty, who

broke into the big time with Hozier’s Get Me to the Church production in 2014. Further details of the collaboration will shortly be announced. Neither is the weekend all about competition, with a strong emphasis on helping burgeoning film makers to learn more about their craft through interaction with others. Amidst the screenings and adjudications, film directors, producers and actors will be on hand help enthusiasts enhance their craft with workshops, tips, guidance, q & a sessions or simply chats over coffee. The festival runs from April 25th-28th. Closing date for entry is Wednesday, February 28th Films must be sent to: firstcutentries@gmail.com and may be sent online using the We Transfer sharing device. (www.wetransfer.com) Full details on: www.firstcutfilmfestival.com See also Facebook.

Pictured at the launch were Mayor Of Waterford Metropolitan District, Cllr.Sean Reinhardt (centre) with Councillors John O'Leary (far left) and Breda Brennan (far right); with Aoife Hearne, Operation Transformation; Mary Conway, Central Library; Waterford Hurling Star Austin Gleeson; and Debbie Johnston, Waterford Central Library. [John Power]

‘Healthy Ireland’ at your local library! THE Mayor of the Waterford Metropolitan District, Cllr. Séan Reinhardt launched the exciting new national initiative ‘Healthy Ireland at your Library’ for Waterford Libraries in Waterford Central Library last week along with guest speaker, Aoife Hearne, panel nutrition expert on RTE’s ‘Operation Transformation’. As part of this initiative,Waterford Libraries have produced a programme of free health and wellbeing events to take place in each of their 12 branches across the county between now and the end of March, and is financed by the Department of

Health as part of their ‘Healthy Ireland Framework for Improved Health & Wellbeing 2013-2025’. Waterford Libraries have also acquired a range of book stock, including Aoife Hearne’s latest book, ‘The Plan’ and lots of online resources. The full programme of free events taking place in each of the 12 Waterford branches includes play, dance and music for parents and toddlers, organised walks, nutrition and health information talks, family yoga and much more! Pick up a programme in your local Library branch or phone 0761-102975 for more information.

SCANLON’S YARD CARPARK, DUNGARVAN, CO. WATERFORD

WINTER MADNESS SALE Monday, 19th February

A section of the building at Villierstown Joinery which was gutted in a blaze last Monday night.

Blaze breaks out at West Waterford joinery A WELL known business in West Waterford was gutted in a blaze last Monday night. The fire broke out at the premises of Villierstown Joinery around 10.10 p.m. Both Cappoquin and Dungarvan Fire Brigades were mobilised to Villierstown,

County Waterford, and on their arrival at the scene they found the building well alight. A fire fighting operation was commenced with the crews using breathing apparatus. The fire was quickly brought under control within 15 minutes. Extensive damage was caused

to the building and the Fire Brigade remained at the scene until approximately 1.30 a.m. to ensure the site was made safe. There were no injuries in the incident. The cause of the fire is undetermined at this stage and Gardaí are investigating.

40kg Polish only €15.40 40kg Doubles only €13.80 Collection 40kg Superflame ovals €16.00 from 40kg Household only €12.00 Shop 40kg Singles only €12.40 40kg Slack only €12.40 O N LY ! Gas only €23.00 Te l . 0 5 8 4 1 9 5 3

ENTERTAINMENT

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

The Michael Collins Band Va le n t i n

PADDY O’BRIEN’S Don’t 24th Forget! Annual Get Together

e’s

Da n c e

Appearing at

Starting Friday, 16th February, at LAWLORS HOTEL, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford 058-41122 • info@lawlorshotel.com

Cappoquin Community Centre

FRIDAY 16th, SATURDAY 17th & SUNDAY, 18th FEBRUARY

on FRIDAY, 9th FEBRUARY, at 9.00 p.m. til late HOSTED BY MOUNT MELLERAY COMMUNITY

Featuring a host of Ireland’s top Country Stars and their bands including PADDY O’BRIEN, ROBERT MIZZELL, JOHN McNICHOLL, GERRY GUTHRIE, BARRY DOYLE, PAT DALY, TRADSTONE, NEW WEST, PAT TOBIN

Music followed by DJ MAD MIKE In aid of Mount Melleray Abbey & Melleray Community Centre Refreshments served ❤ Admission €10

Nightly Dance 9.30 p.m. sharp • Doors 8.30 p.m. Satruday Afternoon Dance 3–5 p.m. • Doors 2.30 p.m. Sunday Afternoon Dance 3.15–5.15 p.m. • Doors 2.45 p.m. Tickets for all Dances will be available at door.

! WIN

CARAVAGGIO – THE SHAPE OF DARKNESS 4K @ SGC Dungarvan

WIN

Admission to Nightly Dances is just €20 and admission to Afternoon Dances is €10

For more information see next week’s advert. on this paper or go to www.paddyobrien.com

Caravaggio – The Shape of Darkness 4K Saturday, 24th February, 3.00 p.m. A journey through life, works and struggles of Michelangelo Merisi from Caravaggio. His existence, no less than his art, is characterized by lights and shadows, contrasts and contradictions, genius and sobriety. Revolutionary artist, he was often not so beloved by contemporaries. He travelled Italy in search of luck or perhaps in search of himself, escaping the enemies that he always found at his passage. Milan, Venice, Rome, Naples, Malta, Sicily. His death seems a twist of faith: he died in Porto Ercole, one step away from Rome, one step away from salvation. According to the Longhi's lesson (the main Caravaggio expert), his work will be read with strict reference to his existence, finding in his masterpieces the echo of personal experiences. The narrative unfolds on two levels: The artistic digression, in which the commentary of the main artworks will be entrusted to an illustrious art historian from the first paintings: Bacchus; Boy with a Basket of Fruit. Through the roman period artworks: Cardsharps, Saint Catherine; Judith Beheading Holofernes to the last works as David with the Head of Goliath. "Photographic" scenes that, accompanied by the voice of Caravaggio himself, evokes an object or a situation symbolising his life and his works. A basket of fruit, a musical instrument, a sword, a grate of a cell etc. These emotional and evocative moments – thanks to the use of light and cinematic techniques such timelapse and slowmotion - help the viewer to go deep inside the mind and soul of Caravaggio, empathizing with his impulses and fears. 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 Caravaggio Competition, Dungarvan Observer, Shandon, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford, on or before 12 noon on Tuesday, 13th February. Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into.

Solas Cancer Support Centre invites you to.....

contestants now registering €1,000 for a Charity or Community FIRST PRIZE: €1,000 Win Organisation of your Choice

The Park Hotel Dungarvan

27TH APR 2018 Doors Open 7.15pm - Kube Starts 8.00pm

BROUGHT TO YOU BY

FUNDRAISING EVENTS GROUP LIMITED www.fundraisingevents.ie www.thekubefundraiser.ie

✄

✄ Question: What date is the exhibition on in the cinema?

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

Call a cab …

Download Our App Today!

Joe Cliffe

Ann O’Dwyer

Nicholas Drohan

Liam McCarthy

087 7935393 /

058

087

68101 /

058 44570

44043

8144777

087 2630666

ENTERTAINMENT Telephone: (058) 41205 / 42042 | e-mail: adverts@dungarvanobserver.ie | Website: www.dungarvanobserver.ie / Twitter: @DungarvanObserv | Find us on Facebook

Friday 9th – Thursday 15th FILM INFORMATION AND BOOKING LINE 058 45796 www.sgcdungarvan.ie U P C O M I N G E V E N T S – N OW B O O K I N G TWELFTH NIGHT

FEBUARY 14th

LIVE FROM THE RSC STRATFORD ON SALE! FEBUARY 17th

LA TRAVIATA FROM SYDNEY HARBOUR

✄

THE SHAPE OF DARKNESS (ART ON SCREEN)

FEBUARY 22nd

FEBUARY 27th

ON SALE!

MAZE RUNNER: DEATH CURE (12A) 142 mins.

ON SALE!

CARAVAGIO THE SHAPE OF DARKNESS (ART ON SCREEN)

ON SALE!

ROMEO ET JULIETTE LIVE FROM TEATRE DEL LICEU, BARCELONA ON SALE!

FEBUARY 28th

DEN OF THIEVES (15A) 140 mins. D I G I TA L ! DAILY 9.10

CAT ON A HOT TIN ROOF NT LIVE PRESENTATION

FEBUARY 24th

ON SALE!

CARAVAGIO

✄

FEBUARY 21st

THREE BILLBOARDS (15A) 115 mins. D I G I TA L ! FRI. – MON. 6.25, 8.50; TUE. – THUR. 6.25

THE WINTER’S TALE BALLET LIVE FROM THE ROYAL BALLET, COVENT GARDEN ON SALE!

TWELFTH NIGHT

D I G I TA L ! DAILY 3.50

EARLY MAN (PG) 88 mins. D I G I TA L ! DAILY 2.15, 4.25

COCO (PG) 105 mins. D I G I TA L ! DAILY 11.30, 1.50, 4.10 PADDINGTON 2 (G) 90 mins.

LIVE FROM THE RSC STRATFORD WEDNESDAY, 14th FEBRUARY, @ 7.00 p.m.

D I G I TA L ! DAILY 11.50

FIFTY SHADES FREED (18) 105 mins.

FERDINAND (G) 106 mins.

D I G I TA L ! DAILY 7.00, 9.20

D I G I TA L ! DAILY 11.40

BLACK PANTHER (12A) 134 mins.

SEVEN S E V E N DAY DAYKIDS’ K I D SCLUB ’ C LU B

D I G I TA L ! TUE. – THUR. 8.50

(16-2)

THE GAA PAVILION

COCO DAILY 11.30

15:17 TO PARIS (15A) 94 mins.

FERDINAND

D I G I TA L ! DAILY 7.05, 9.15 (NO WED.)

DAILY 11.40

YOUGHAL

PADDINGTON 2 DAILY 11.50

STATUS UPDATE (12A) 107 mins.

DAILY 12.00

NO TUESDAY ELEVENSES

TAD, THE LOST EXPLORER (G) 85 mins.

N O T U E S DAY E L E V E N S E S THIS WEEK T HIS W EEK

D I G I TA L ! DAILY 12.00, 1.55

BOOK ONLINE @ www.sgcdungarvan.ie

BLOG @ www.sgcdungarvan.com

/SGCDungarvan @SGCDungarvan

Observer Competition Winner Some Girl(s) ANNE-MARIE BROWNE, Carriglea, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford. Promoters will be in contact with winner.

La Traviata @ SGC Dungarvan ANGELA DALTON, The Burgery, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford. Winner can collect prize at SGC Dungarvan.

adverts@dungarvanobserver.ie ORGANISING AN EVENT? Make sure everyone reads about it …

058-41205/42042

Due to weather conditions, the Dance advertised for Youghal GAA Pavilion on Saturday, 10th February, has been postponed and the next Dance is on SATURDAY, 24th FEBRUARY with

TAD, LOST EXPLORER

D I G I TA L ! DAILY 2.25, 4.40, 6.55 (NO WED.)

PHILIP ENGLISH Spurling Group Cinemas

J O H N PAU L’ S BA R O L D PA R I S H 058-46267

CROTTY’S INN LEAMYBRIEN

Sunday, 11th February

Saturday, 10th February :–

GLEN FLYNN & HIS BAND BACK BY POPULAR DEMAND CLLR. SEAMUS O’DONNELL 087-6859270

Clotto €5,600 Coming Saturday, 17th February DANCING TO

T.R. DALLAS Crotty’s Inn available for Parties, Meetings and Functions.

Tel. (051) 291254 / (087) 6599126.

FEATURE

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

The day Manchester United was decimated! By Frank Colbert (South Africa)

IN those distant days only actual League Champions of their respective countries were eligible to compete in this glamorous competition, with home and away games being the order of the day. In the first round the Busby’s Babes beat the Belgian champions Anderlecht by the hugely impressive aggregate scoreline of 12-0. Having subsequently disposed of Borussia Dortmund (3-2) on aggregate and the Spanish champions Atletico Madrid by 6-5, they now found themselves returning to Spain to face a star-studded Real Madrid team in the semifinal of the lucrative competition. The hugely more experienced Bernabeu side which contained stars such as Di Stefano, Gento , Kopa and Rial was in the throes of becoming European Cup winners in five successive years. Not surprisingly, United’s youthful team succumbed to the Spanish masters by an aggregate scoreline of 5-3, with their opponents stooping to numerous unsavoury tactics on occasions, especially in the first leg in Madrid. After this creditable

defeat by Real Madrid the club had made so many friends with the quality of their football and Europe now knew about the wonderful young team that was growing in Manchester. They were regarded as terrific ambassadors, not only for United, but for Britain as well. While now playing swashbuckling attacking football they again topped the league table by an impressive 8 points at the end of the following season in May 1957 and they were now also firm favourites to beat Aston Villa in the FA Cup final. As a result they were in line to win the double which had not been achieved in modern times. Topping the scoring was their popular inside forward (attacking midfielder) Dublin- born Liam Whelan. Sadly, after a mere six minutes into the cup final they suddenly lost the services of goalkeeper Ray Wood during an appalling challenge by Peter McParland. Largely due to the fact that no substitutes were allowed in those distant days they lost by a scoreline of 2-1, having played 85 minutes of football with only ten players. Despite playing out of position now as a defensive midfielder for that total

The Duke of Edinburgh being introduced to Bobby Charlton before the 1957 FA Cup final (l. to r.): Tommy Taylor, Liam Whelan, Jackie Blanchflower, Ray Wood, Billy Foulkes and Charlton.

period, by way of compensation, Liam Whelan was generally adjudged to be Man of the Match. At the start of season 1957/’58 there was now great optimism around England that Busby’s quickly maturing Babes would win the treble. In those distant days top English league teams contained a maximum of three or four internationals. In contrast a total of nine United players (Byrne, Wood, Berry, Edwards, Foulkes, Taylor and Pegg for England; Gregg and Blanchflower for Northern Ireland; Webster for Wales and Whelan for Ireland) had already accumulated several caps for their respective countries. Six of them were homegrown Babes and another five (Coleman, Jones, Morgans, Charlton and Viollett) were on the verge of becoming internationals, with the latter two being capped in 1958. In addition to confidently seeking a third championship ina-row the team was looking forward to soon taking over the mantle of the legendary Real Madrid team. In the first round of the European Cup they comfortably disposed of the League of Ireland champions Shamrock Rovers on an aggregate scoreline of 9-2. Having made a very impressive start to the season in the league they started to encounter a somewhat bumpy patch in October and November which led to four regular players, including Liam Whelan, losing their places. Busby had suddenly decided to replace the Dubliner with 19 year old Bobby Charlton who had recently been scoring prolifically in the reserves. In addition, the Northern Ireland goalkeeper Harry Gregg was signed for a world record fee of 23,500 pounds after a heroic performance at Wembley for his country in a 3-2 victory against an England team containing future United team-mates Tommy Taylor, Duncan Edwards and captain Roger Byrne. In the

The happy Busby Babes en route to a European Cup game prior to the Munich crash. Front row: Dennis Viollet. Second row (l. to r.): Coach Tom Curry, Liam Whelan, Eddie Coleman, David Pegg, Tommy Taylor, Roger Byrne (capt.), Peter Jones, Unknown, Matt Busby. Third row (l. to r.): Ray Wood and Mark Jones. Fourth row: Duncan Edwards. Fifth row (l. to r.): Billy Foulkes and Jackie Blanchflower. Munich victims would include Whelan, Coleman, Pegg, Taylor, Byrne, Mark Jones and Edwards.

Matt Busby leads out the Busby Babes at Wembley before the 1957 FA Cup final (l. to r.): Matt Busby, Roger Byrne, Johnny Berry, Jackie Blanchflower, Ray Wood, Billy Foulkes, Bobby Charlton, Tommy Taylor, Liam Whelan, Eddie Coleman and David Pegg. opinion of Busby and Murphy the fiercely combatant Gregg was more dominant in his penalty area than their England international Ray Wood. PRE MUNICH When approaching the start of February this re-hashed team had now entered an unbeaten run in all three competitions (league, FA Cup and the European Cup). This “steadying of the ship” reinforced the club’s optimism of an impending treble and in Busby’s opinion: “They now had the football world at their feet.” To date 16 homegrown players had tasted first team football and 10 of them were now regularly forming the nucleus of the team. As a result both men strongly felt that for the next 10 years very few, if any, new signings would be necessary. It was true justification for Busby’s and Murphy’s decision five years earlier to start the club’s own nursery. Dukla Prague were also dispensed with fairly comfortably with an aggregate score of 6-2 and an impressive Red Star Belgrade team were beaten by a scoreline of 2-1 in the first leg of the European Cup semi final at Old Trafford.The Babes then headed for London where the Gunners of Arsenal were duly disposed of at Highbury by a scoreline of 5-4 in what has generally been described in English football circles as the match of the decade. As a result Busby’s league runners-up were eagerly looking forward to a crucial game against league leaders Wolves at Old Trafford in a week’s time after returning home from Belgrade. Tragically however fate would ordain otherwise. Co-incidentally, at half time at Highbury a popular Buddy Holly song was played over the public address system with the following haunting lyrics: “That’ll be the day when I say goodbye, that’ll be the day when I die!” Tragically, ten of the team would never grace a football field again after the subsequent aircrash at Munich airport a mere five days later. On Monday morning, 3rd

February, it was a very confident and upbeat United contingent which left Manchester’s Ringway Airport in a twin-engined Elizabethan chartered plane for the second leg of the European Cup semi-final in Belgrade. In particular, twenty year old Bobby Charlton was now feeling very much on a high having scored nine goals in the last ten games for his beloved United. In his own words in his second autobiography titled “My Manchester United Years”: “We were playing football that apart from convincingly winning so many matches was also lighting up the sky. We had now grown into the belief that we could win the European Cup. Why not?” David Hall tells us in his book titled “Manchester’s Finest” that: “This United team, with an average age of 22, was the most talented group of young footballers that had ever been seen at one club in Britain. Despite their youth they were true ambassadors of England in every sense of the word and were renown for their character, great enthusiasm, pride and spirit of enthusiasm. In general, having grown up together, they typically now felt that they were more like brothers than team-mates.They were truly connected to the people and their youthfulness was reflected in their joyful lack of inhibitions.

They were the most successful, popular and stylish team in Britain and they had electrified the British public with their flowing free-spirited football accompanied with adventure and exuberance. Very few of them had cars in those days and generally they travelled to training and also to Old Trafford either by bus or on bicycles.Their modest lives bred in them the innate qualities of self sacrifice and decency in stark contrast to many modern players with their multi-million pound pay packets, luxury cars, exclusive homes and promiscuous groupies. Busby stated some decades later that: “There was a general feeling throughout the country at that time that nothing would prevent the young braves of United from reigning in England football for the next decade.” Busby’s team, for what would tragically be their swansong game before Munich the following day, was a typical one of Harry Gregg, Billy Foulkes, Roger Byrne (capt.), Eddie Coleman, Mark Jones, Duncan Edwards, Kenny Morgans, Bobby Charlton, Tommy Taylor, Dennis Viollet and Albert Scanlon, with Liam Whelan, David Pegg, Johnny Berry, Ray Wood, Jackie Blanchflower and Geoff Bent on the bench. Continued next week.

The Busby Babes with their second championship trophy in succession in 1957. Front row (l. to r.): Duncan Edwards, Johnny Docherty, Ray Wood, David Pegg and Eddie Coleman. Back row (l. to r.): Dennis Viollet, Tommy Taylor, Roger Byrne (capt.), Johnny Berry, Mark Jones and Ian Greaves.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

NEWS

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.

Abortion ‘belittles women’ Dear Editor, As we lament the passing of Dolores O’Riordan singer and songwriter not everyone might be aware that she spoke out against abortion in an interview with Alec Foege in Rolling Stone Magazine on March 23rd, 1995. Ms. O’Riordan, who also once worked for the prolife group, Youth Defence, said: “It's not good for women to go through the procedure and have something living sucked out of your bodies. It belittles women – even though some women say, 'Oh, I don't mind to have one.' Every time a woman has an abortion, it just crushes her self-esteem, smaller and smaller and smaller." Pro-abortion feminists believe that abortion is empowering; however, Dolores O’Riordan’s comment that abortion “belittles women” is spot on. Legal abortion tells women that they aren’t capable of raising or loving their own child because of their current status in life. In reality, women are smart enough and strong enough to live alongside their children and still pursue dreams in a variety of ways – as O’Riordan herself proved. Women do not need abortion in order to lead successful lives. Regards, FINTAN J. POWER

Removing equal right to life Dear Sir, Tom Clonan, disability rights campaigner and media professional, was speaking on the Ray Darcy Show radio this week (30/1/18), campaigning for equality for people with disabilities and admirably so. He wants Ireland to ratify the UN Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities. However, I found it peculiar when he said that we got equality in 2015, we're now making progress in getting equality for women's reproductive rights and he wants a hat trick by getting the UN convention ratified. How can a disability rights campaigner think that making progress in legalising the killing of unborn babies is something akin to equality, especially when international experience shows us that babies with disabilities are directly targeted for killing? Repealing the 8th Amendment actually removes the equal right to life of the unborn baby and its mother, leaving it wide open for babies with identifiable disabilities to be wiped out. Yours faithfully, ANNA LUSZCZYNSKA, Dunmore East, Co. Waterford

Go and make Disciples Hello, May I begin by wishing you a Very Happy New Year. I thank God for all that has happened since I arrived here in Waterford and Lismore. I wish also to applaud the priests who labour in the Lord’s vineyard day in and day out. When one adds up all the work done by priests and deacons in the course of a day one can only thank God for them: gathering people to pray, celebrating the sacraments, visiting schools, homes and the sick and the elderly in the nursing homes, organizing all kinds of parish activities, touching the lives of countless people in times of joy and sorrow. I thank God also for religious who pray and work in our Diocese, for the very large numbers of lay people who live out the Gospel in their daily lives, and for those who work in and from the Diocesan Pastoral Centre. I would like to tell you about some of the things which have happened in the Diocese in the past two years or so. As you may know a wonderful new house of formation for young people has opened up in Glencomeragh, near Kilsheelan, - The Holy Family Mission. A new group of young evangelizers called NET Ministries have also come to the Diocese again this year. They have committed a year of their lives to go on mission for the Lord in schools and parishes around the Diocese. Thanks to a very dedicated group in the Diocesan Adoration Committee the numbers of hours of adoration of Jesus in parishes around the Diocese has increased greatly. We have now three youth summer faith camps - in Ardmore, Tramore and Dungarvan. Summer camps are a necessary means of catechesis for our young people and I congratulate all those involved. Catholic Family outreach is happening on a small scale in the Pastoral Centre and HFM. Light Fever is going very well in the city and has spread to Clonmel. A group following the Neo Catechumenal Way have come to live in the Diocese.There are numerous parish activities

right across the Diocese. Of course we know too that there are huge challenges. People speak about a crisis of vocations to the priesthood but the problem is deeper than that.There is a crisis of faith right throughout Irish society.There is a crisis of knowledge and practice of the faith and therefore a crisis of disciples. In response to this we can say that there are what could be termed levels of attachment to the Church, some who are intentional Disciples of Christ, others less so. I pray that those who are in love with Christ may be the leaven in the dough (Luke 13) spreading the Word to all with whom they live and work, bringing others closer to Christ. Without Jesus we can do nothing. He is the vine and we are the branches (John 15). I am looking forward to going around the Diocese during the next few months, working in conjunction with the Diocesan Pastoral Council. Parishes will be grouped together for the purpose of my visits. If you have questions or comments please make them known to your Parish Pastoral Council. I will travel around to listen but also to encourage and challenge. Are our parishes places where we make disciples? Pope Francis continually speaks of the need for missionary disciples. Each baptised person is called to go out and be Christ wherever he or she lives and works. The great danger is to keep God in the church and confine our religion to the private sphere. Thankfully there is no shortage of people with big hearts and generous spirits. We can say to all people in moments of crisis that there is “only one name under heaven by which people can be saved, Jesus Christ, who is the one and only redeemer.” Acts 4:12 So I am always hopeful. I would like to focus briefly on four key things which I think should form part of our discussions and conversations as I go around the Diocese in the next few months. They are: VISION Without a vision we decay. With a vision we know where we are going and that life has purpose.What is your vision for your life? What is your vision for the Church? What do we, as Catholic Christians, have to offer to society, remembering that “God so loved the world that he gave his only son, so that all those who believe in him will not perish but have eternal life”? John 3:16. Can such a supernatural vision of life grow stronger throughout our Diocese? What difference does being a Christian Catholic make? Are you, a believer, different to a non-believer neighbour? Do we want a Church in Waterford & Lismore which is alive and flourishing? PRAYER AND THE SACRAMENTS Where do we ourselves go to be fed? Do we meet Christ in prayer and in the sacraments? Christ must be at the centre. Every day we need to find some quiet place, and remind ourselves that God is real and wants to hear you and speak with you as you talk to him about your life, about the things that are going well and not so well. If you become a soul of prayer then the Mass will mean more to you. The seed of spiritual life which you got at baptism will grow. It is pruned and healed in confession. It bears fruit in acts of love, patience, perseverance, generosity and sacrifice. For it to grow properly we need to join with others. Is there a group in your parish to which you can go for support? Can you start one yourself? FAITH FORMATION I have met Catholics who left the Church for another faith. When asked a few simple questions it was clear that they had very little knowledge of what they left. Is faith formation being well served in your parish and in the Diocese? What more can we do in this area? Adult Catholics need an adult faith. I would like to propose a diocesan-wide adult faith formation course. EVANGELIZATION Our treatment of others is the overflow of our interior life. If we have Christ within we will act accordingly and be truly concerned for others, body and soul. Irish society is in many ways breaking down and moving away from God and is therefore suffering suffer in all kinds of ways. Christ asks his followers to be his hands and feet and voice. Christ is the answer to the needs of every human heart. The harvest is rich. Only a disciple can evangelize. He asks all of us to be his disciples and then to “to go and make disciples” (Matthew 28) I will be praying a lot that the listening process will bear fruit. May we be a Church which breaks out of old confines and sees the opportunities which the Holy Spirit is opening up. Let us pray for a new Pentecost in the Church in our Diocese and across Ireland. May the World meeting of Families in August be a significant step on that journey. Yours sincerely, Most Reverend Alphonsus Cullinan, DD, Bishop of Waterford and Lismore.

W I T O p e n D ay

WATERFORD Institute of Technology (WIT) offers exciting opportunities for educators at the Education Programmes Open Day 17 February 2018, WIT Arena. People interested in becoming teachers in the further and adult education sector and existing teachers looking to progress their career are invited to attend an Education Programmes Open Day on Saturday, 17th February, 2018, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the WIT Arena. WIT’s School of Lifelong Learning and Education offers the BA (Hons) in Teaching and Learning in Further Education and Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching and Learning in Further Education. Both programmes have Teaching Council recognition for teachers working or wishing to work in Further Education. As well as a suite of undergraduate programmes in Adult Education, Adult Literacy and Community Education and Development, the School offers the popular MA in Management in Education aimed at aspiring School Principals and Leaders in Education. Dr. Helen Murphy, Head of the School of Lifelong Learning and Education, says “the open day is for anyone working in or interested in education. It is an opportunity to come along to find out which programmes (from NFQ Level 6 up to NFQ Level 9) can help people reach their personal or professional development goals. Our programmes are flexible, responsive and connect teaching with practice. We have been working with adult learners for over 30 years and have a long history of supporting adult learners to balance their studies and other commitments.” For detailed information on the Education Programmes Open Day and individual programmes, go to www.wit.ie/educationopenday

Moneymatters

Guide to borrowing SOMETIMES borrowing money can seem all too easy. You can get the item first then pay for it later. But unlike saving, borrowing comes at a cost. Lenders generally charge interest for what you borrow. This means that as well as paying back what you have borrowed, you have to pay back more. Before you borrow money there are lots of issues to consider. Here we answer some questions about borrowing. Borrowing money or taking a loan or any other kind of credit is not something to be done lightly or quickly. The time you take in weighing up options before borrowing is time well spent. It will help you to be sure you have the right kind of credit for your needs, and so reduce your chances of getting into difficulties. So what do you need to consider? • What am I borrowing for? • Could I save for this instead? • Am I sure I really NEED it? • Do I really need it NOW? It is also important to consider what the borrowing will mean for you into the future …. • How long will it take to pay this borrowing back? • What would happen if my income dropped? • What would happen if interest rates went up? If you don’t have satisfactory answers to these questions, then think again before you borrow! The Money Advice & Budgeting Service is based at Civic Offices, Davitt’s Quay, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford X35 Y326. (Tel. 0761 07 2770 – Fax 058-45296) and provides a service throughout the West Waterford area. It is part of the national MABS Service and is free, confidential and independent. Visit our web site at: www.mabs.ie Phone MABS Helpline 0761 07 2000. Email helpline@mabs.ie

IN MEMORIAM McGRATH (16th anniversary) – In loving memory of John McGrath, late of Villierstown, who died on 2nd February, 2002. Not a day do I forget you, In my heart you are always near, I who loved you sadly miss you, As it dawns another year.

–Always remembered by your wife Mae and family. CAHILL (3rd anniversary) – In fond memory of James Cahill, late of Dromana, Cappoquin, who died on 12th February, 2015. R.I.P. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Sunday, 4th March, at 11.15 a.m. in Aglish Church.

Gerard Condon 14th February, 2014

Tom Condon 17th April, 1984

David Condon 3rd June, 2008

CONDON – In fond memory of Gerard who died on 14th February, 2014; Tom who died on 17th April, 1984, and David Condon who died on 3rd June, 2008. R.I.P. Late of Stradbally. –Always in our thoughts, your loving family.

This day is remembered and quietly kept, No words needed, we shall never forget, For those we love don’t go away, They walk beside us every day, Unseen, unheard, but always near, So loved, so missed and so very dear.

–Sadly missed by his loving wife Anne; son David; daughters Melissa and Linda and grand-daughter Ava James.

CAHILL (3rd anniversary) – In loving memory of Jimmy Cahill, late of Dromana, Cappoquin, who died on 12th February, 2015. R.I.P. A light is from our household gone, A voice we loved is still, A place is vacant in our home, That never can be filled. He bade no one a last farewell, He raised his hand to none, His spirit flew before we knew, That he from us had gone. You can only have one Father, Patient, kind and true, And as we look upon his picture, Sweet memories we recall, Of a face so full of sunshine, And a smile for one and all. Sweet Jesus take this message, To our dear Father up above, Tell him how we miss him, And give him all our love.

–Sadly missed by your son John, Melanie and Zoe.

CROWLEY (2nd anniversary) – In loving memory of Jim Crowley, late of ‘Aisling,’ Tallow Road, Lismore, who died on 11th February, 2016.

CURRAN (22nd anniversary) – In loving memory of my father Alo Curran, late of Seafield, Bonmahon, who died on 12th February, 1996.

A loved one never leaves you, They’re never far away, They watch you from a distance, And guide you every day. They do become your Angel, And look down from above, A loved one never leaves you, Because you always have their love.

I am standing on the seashore, Suddenly a ship at my side, Spreads its white sails to the morning breeze, And starts out for the blue ocean. It is an object of beauty and strength, And I stand and watch, Until at length it is only a ribbon of white cloud, Just above where sea and sky meet each other. Then someone at my side says, “There! He’s gone!” Gone where? Gone from my sight – that is all. He is just as large in mast and hull and spar, As he was when he left my side, And just as able to bear his load of living freight, To the place of destination, His diminished size is in me, not in him, And just at the moment when someone at my side says, “There! He’s gone!” Voices on the other side shout, “There! He’s arrived!”

–Always remembered and sadly missed by your loving wife Sheila; daughter Jacinta; son Martin; son-in-law Philip; daughter-in-law Ber and grandchildren Becky, Robert, Jack, Ellen, Sarah and Seán. Second Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Sunday, 11th February, in St. Carthage’s Church, Lismore, at 11.00 a.m.

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

–Always remembered by your daughter Nicola.

Check out the Dungarvan Observer online! www.dungarvanobserver.ie

DOWNEY (4th anniversary) – In loving memory of Joseph, late of 63 Silversprings, Dungarvan, who died on 16th February, 2014. R.I.P. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Sunday, 11th February, in the St. Mary’s Parish Church at 10.00 a.m. A loving father, son and brother most sincere, Loved by all he knew, He loved us all so very dear, And we all loved him too. But God in His mercy will give us hope, And help us bear the strain, Of the one we cherished, loved and lost, To meet in Heaven again. As down the road of memories, We gently tread today, Our loving thoughts are with you Joey, As life goes on its way.

–Always loved and remembered, forever in our thoughts and prayers, your loving Mam and Dad and all your family, XXX.

No matter where you are in the world … the Dungarvan Observer is available for you to view online!

If you require the latest edition … we can forward it electronically straight to your email

No waiting on the postman, courier, etc. View full edition on your own computer, laptop, tablet, etc.

REST IN PEACE Most merciful Father, We commend our departed into Your hands, We are filled with the sure hope, That our departed will rise again on the last day, With all who have died in Christ. We thank you for all the things you have given, During our departed’s earthly life.

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

–Sadly missed by Theresa, Rita and Mary.

DOWNEY (3rd anniversary) – In loving memory of Mickey Downey, late of Woodhouse, Ballinamult, who died on 22nd February, 2015. R.I.P. We hold you close within our hearts, And there you shall remain, To walk with us throughout our lives, Until we meet again. So rest in peace dear Michael, And thanks for all you have done, We pray that God has given you, The crown you’ve truly won.

–Sadly missed by his loving wife Statia and sons Michael John and Anthony. Third Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, 17th February, 2018, at 7.30 p.m. in Touraneena Church.

Dungarvan Observer

McKEOWN (19th anniversary) – In loving memory of Mary McKeown, late of Chapel Road, Stradbally, whose Anniversary occurs on 9th February. R.I.P. God called your name so softly, That only you could hear, And no one heard the footsteps, Of Angels drawing near. The Golden Gates stood open, God saw you needed rest, His garden must be beautiful, He only takes the best.

–Sadly missed by your loving son Michael and daughter-inlaw Patricia.

–Sadly missed by his loving wife Maura; daughter Lola; son Liam; son-in-law Tom and grandchildren Lucy and Ian and sisters Theresa, Mary and Rita.

GIBLIN (1st anniversary) – In loving memory of Liam Giblin, late of Springmount, Dungarvan, who died on 14th February, 2017.

Month’s Mind Mass COYNE, David – The Month’s Mind Mass for the late David Coyne, Glenlickey, Grange, will be celebrated in St. Cronan’s Church, Clashmore, on Friday, 16th February, at 7.30 p.m.

GIBLIN (1st anniversary) – In loving memory of Liam Giblin, late of Springmount, Dungarvan, who died on Valentine’s Day, 14th February, 2017. 1st Anniversary Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, 17th February, 2018, at 7.30 p.m. in St. Mary’s Parish Church, Dungarvan.

MAHER (5th anniversary) – Cherished memories of a wonderful son and brother Diarmaid Maher, late of An Rinn, who died on 13th February, 2013, aged 29 years. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in Séipeál San Nioclás, An Rinn, on Friday, 16th February, at 7.30 p.m. A tear held back, a silent cry, Unanswered questions as to why, So many hopes and dreams denied, The day our precious Diarmaid died, To love someone and have to part, Is the greatest sorrow of the human heart, “An réalt is gile an croí is mó.”

–All our love now and forever, Dad, Mam, Marie, Yvonne and Tomás.

MURPHY (5th anniversary) – In loving memory of John A. Murphy, late of 26 Western Bay, Dungarvan, whose 5th Anniversary occurs on 13th February. No one knows the grief we bear, When the family meets and you’re not there, We laugh, we talk, we play our part, But behind our smiles lie broken hearts. Memories we keep one by one, Of things you said and songs you have sung, Bring a smile, often a tear, And always a wish that you were here. Deep in our hearts, You will always stay, Loved and remembered, Every day.

–From your loving wife Eileen; daughters Jackie, Sharon, Deirdre and Claire and their families. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in the Friary Church, Dungarvan, on Sunday, 11th February, at 11.00 a.m.

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

ADVERTISEMENTS

SITUATIONS VACANT

PLANNING PERMISSION

APPRENTICE WELDER / FABRICATOR / FITTER TURNER WANTED FOR DUNGARVAN AREA – Immediate start. Reply in writing to Box No. 6068.

WATERFORD CITY & COUNTY COUNCIL – I, Aidan Barron, intend to apply for planning permission for the indefinite retention of 1. A single-storey ground floor rear extension consisting of a bedroom and en-suite; 2. A two-storey side extension to ground floor sitting room and a 1st floor bedroom over; 3. A rear elevation 1½-storey extension off existing stairwell consisting of a sunroom and 4. change in original flat roof structure to garage / outhouse to pitched roof structure; at Strandside North, Abbeyside, 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 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.

WALSH’S Lemybrien, Co. Waterford POSITION AVAILABLE FOR

ACCOUNTANT We are seeking a qualified/part-qualified Accountant to join our team. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 3 years experience in a small or medium size practice and be familiar with all aspects of bookkeeping and accounts preparation for businesses. This is an opportunity to gain valuable experience of managing your own portfolio of clients and securing a permanent position while developing your career.

TRAINEE ACCOUNTANT/BOOKKEEPER We also have a vacancy for a person interested in pursuing a career working in an accountancy practice. The ideal candidate will be a qualified Accounting Technician or have experience in bookkeeping. Please send your CV to: dom@omf.ie O’Mahoney & Fitzgerald 24 Shandon Street Dungarvan Co. Waterford 058 42383

Store/Forecourt Person Experience in retail an advantage Apply with CV to: MANAGER AT WALSH’S TEXACO

– WANTED –

Full-time Barperson/Waiter/Waitress MUST HAVE EXPERIENCE WITH FOOD. Reply to: BRIDGIE TERRIES, The Pike, Dungarvan. Phone: 051-291324

WATERFORD CITY AND COUNTY COUNCIL – I, Teresa Power, intend to apply for permission for the construction of a new one and a half storey extension to existing dwelling house, alterations to existing dwelling house, new velux rooflights, new solar panels, along with all associated site works and drainage at Graigavalla, Rathgormack, 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.

(ind.)

Learn about the LEARN ABOUT THE Stockmarket STOCKMARKET

Ideal for potential investors of all type DUNGARVAN native PAUL DEE is launching his Spring programme of stockmarket classes for people who have an interest in learning about the operation and structure of global stockmarkets. The only requirement to enter the course is to have a curiosity and interest in various aspects of the stockmarket. This course, which examines all aspects of the stockmarket, has run successfully for a number of years. The public perception that the stockmarket is just one big casino is challenged. The jargon and technical language associated with the industry are fully explained in simple English. Bulls and Bears, Stags, Pigs, Insider Dealing, Big Bang and all the other colourful language are brought to life. The course is designed to provide an understanding of the function and benefits of the stock exchange. It has a practical focus and features an ongoing stock exchange game. Beginners and experienced investors have found many benefits in the course in the past. On completion of the course participants will have the opportunity of forming an Investment

Club to put their newly acquired knowledge to practical use. In addition to the above, Paul Dee frequently attends investment club meetings and speaks to groups and organisations about

all aspects of investing in the stockmarket. If your group or club would like to have a guest speaker on stockmarket issues, please do not hesitate to call us on 085 120 0435.

Colaiste Chathail Naofa, Dungarvan IDEAL FOR POTENTIAL INVESTORS OF ALL TYPE The only requirement to enter the course is to have a curiosity and interest in various aspects of the stockmarket. Bulls and Bears, Stags, Pigs, Insider Dealing, Big Bang and all the other colourful terms are brought to life.

Starts: Tuesday, 20th February 7.00 p.m. – 9.00 p.m. 10 week course. Cost €100 Contact: Paul Dee, Stockbroker Tel 085 1200 435 Paul Dee

32 & 33

NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

Waterford Greenway scoops Gold and Grand Prix awards in All-Ireland Community and Council Tourism Awards

Pictured Team of Waterford Greenway, Waterford County Council, winner of Grand Prix Award and the 'Best Tourism Initiative' award, Cllr. Pat Nugent of Waterford City and County Council with George Jones, Chairman of IPB Insurance and Mags Murray, Chairperson of LAMA Executive, at the 2018 All-Ireland Community & Council Awards presented, by IPB Insurance and LAMA (Local Authority Members Association) in Croke Park Stadium on Saturday, 3rd February. The event, now in its 12th year, celebrates collaborations between Councils and communities, bringing national recognition to local projects and initiatives. [Paul Shwerwood]

WATERFORD’S stunning Greenway has scooped gold in the coveted All Ireland Community and Council Awards and has been crowned Ireland’s ‘Best Tourism Initiative’ in the competition. It has also taken the ‘Grand Prix Award’ for 2018, a special commendation for outstanding excellence and an award presented only to projects that receive the highest marks from the competition’s esteemed judging panel. The Awards wree presented on Saturday, February 3, at a ceremony in Croke Park. It’s a spectacular double coup as the 46km off-road cycling and walking trail edges towards its very 1st birthday celebrations on March 25. Competition was intense and all involved with the Waterford Greenway should be very proud of the All Ireland title wins, according to Michael Walsh, Chief Executive with Waterford City and County Council. Paying tribute after the awards to the staff who maintain the Greenway and the communities who have embraced it and made so many visitors feel welcome, Mr Walsh said: “Some counties and communities talk about being selfsufficient, about providing local employment, enhancing

their natural resources for their economic, social and cultural benefit and for generations to come. We’ve developed the Greenway and they have come – in their droves. “The Waterford Greenway has transformed this county. There is no doubt about that. The economic benefits are evident everywhere you go. Coffee shops, hotels and other accommodation providers, bars, shops, restaurants, bike hire companies and more all reporting a boom in trade. “But the real winners are the people of Waterford who have been such great Greenway ambassadors as well as the families, the groups, the individuals who use our Greenway again and again and who are reaping the health and wellbeing benefits. That will be its true legacy, I believe.” Trails Officer with Waterford City and County Council, Johnny Brunnock, was among those to accept the IPB Insurance and Local Authorities Members Association (LAMA) Awards at Croke Park. He was over the moon. “It has been an incredible first 10 months for everyone associated with the Waterford Greenway. It has given us all such a lift in so many ways. Over 250,000 people have already visited the Waterford Greenway and the economic,

social, sporting and other benefits it has brought are simply unbelievable. It’s brilliant to see so many local people, visiting families, adult groups, clubs and societies using the Greenway and spending time in Waterford,” he said. Figures released in early December show that since it opened in March 2017, 247,545 have enjoyed using the Waterford Greenway. Of these, 105,639 were on foot and 141,906 have cycled it. Well over 9 out of 10 (94%) of visitors to the Waterford Greenway www.visitwaterfordgreenway.com rated it as either excellent or good. The Waterford Greenway is Ireland’s longest greenway and the spectacular, 46km off-road cycling and walking trail stretches from the Viking City of Waterford to the picturesque coastal town of Dungarvan. Visitors are invited to travel along Waterford Greenway in Ireland’s Ancient East from the City along the River Suir, by Mount Congreve Gardens, through Kilmacthomas, across eleven bridges, over three impressive viaducts and through a 400m long tunnel; with wonderful views of the Comeragh Mountains, the Copper Coast and Dungarvan Bay.

COUNTY NEWS NEWSREEL … Anxious or Depressed?

COME to our Support Group Meeting in Dungarvan.Venue: Deise Day Care, Dungarvan, Community Centre, Mitchel Street. Date: Every Tuesday at 7.30 p.m. Helpline: 1800 804 848. You are not alone! Please note change in time.

Villierstown National School Music Bingo Table Quiz VILLIERSTOWN National School Parents Association will host a Music Table Quiz on Friday, 2nd March, 2018 in An Cruiscin Lan,Villierstown. Table of 4 €20. Registration on the night at 8.30 p.m. to begin 9.00 p.m. sharp. So if you fancy something different on a Friday night come along for a trip down Music Memory Lane. All are welcome and it's sure to be a very entertaining night Raffle on the night. Looking forward to a great night.

Pictured following the AGM of the Fundraising Branch of the Helvick Lifeboat held in Dungarvan Harbour Sailing Club are the ladies on the new committee: Joan Clancy, RoseAnn Foley, Trish Brabazon, Connie Kiersey. Seated are Dolores Walsh, Anne McCarthy, Deirdre Doocey, Elaine O’Grady. [Martin T. Landers]

Ballymacarbry Community Centre BALLYMACARBRY Community Centre are holding a Public Meeting in the Community Centre on Friday, 23rd February, 2018 at 8.00 p.m. to discuss the year ahead. All are very welcome. Light refreshments will be provided on the night.

St. Michael’s Hall Ballyduff Upper Card Results 1st Pat Ryan, Sheila Lonergan; 2nd Rita Leamy, Ann Geary; 4th & 5th Bill Leddy, Sean Higgins Lucky Tables Mary Byrnes, Helen Walsh, Joan Hannon, Christy Higgins Raffle: Hugh Geary x 2, Pat Kirby, Joan Hannon x 2, Delia Cashel, Stephen Cunningham, Helen Walsh.

Waterford Schools Reminder WATERFORD teachers in primary and second level schools, whose pupils take part in the annual Texaco Children’s Art Competition, are reminded that the closing date for receipt of entries this year is Wednesday, 28th February next. Last year almost 200 pupils from schools in County Waterford submitted entries to the Competition.

Alzheimer Society of Ireland Saturday Social Club INVITATION – The Alzheimer Society Saturday Club Entertainment with Alan McCarthy and Friends in the Deise Day Care Centre, Mitchell Street, Dungarvan on Saturday, 10th February, from 2.00 p.m. to 4.00 p.m. Light refreshments provided. For further information please phone 086-8362619.

Ardmore/Grange Community Alert A MEETING of the Ardmore / Grange Community Alert will be held in the I.C.A. Hall Ardmore on Thursday next, 8th February at 8.30 p.m. All are welcome to attend. The agenda will include: Garda Report by Garda Colm O’Callaghan; Update on the operation of the Garda text alert; Review of list of elderly living alone; Update on Personal Panic Alarms.

IS ar an Aoine seo, 9 Feabhra a thosnóidh Tionól Niocláis Tóibín na bliana seo leis an oscailt oifigiúil ar siúl i dTigh an Cheoil ag 9.00 i.n. Bronnfar Gradam Niocláis Tóibín ar John Dwyer i mbliana ag an ócáid seo. Irish music and song will be celebrated at Tionól Niocláis Tóibín which will take place in An Rinn beginning this coming Friday 9th February with the official opening in Tigh an Cheoil at 9pm. The well know musician John Dwyer will be presented with the Gradam Niocláis Tóibín this year. Saturday morning will see some of the best musicians and singers taking part in workshops in Meánscoil San Nioclás & Scoil Náisiúnta na Rinne offering participants the chance to learn from the best of musicians and singers. Registration for the workshops is at 9.00 a.m. in Meanscoil San Nioclás and the cost is €10. Classes will begin at 10.00 a.m. and the fiddle & flute/whistle classes will be held in Scoil Náisiúnta na Rinne. CEOLCHOIRM DEN SCOTH | TOP CLASS CONCERT Saturday night (10th February) will see the crowds gather in Halla Pobail na Rinne for the Tionól concert with over 40 participants, commencing at 7.30pm. The concert line up includes Liam O’Connor, Mícheál Ó Briain, Johnny

McCarthy, Bryan O’Leary, Colm Guilfoyle, John McMahon, Johnny Óg Connolly, Leon Agnew, Tommy Keane, Colm Murphy, Seán Ó Fearghail, Eimear Uí Ghealbháin, Saileog Ní Cheannabháin, Ailbhe Nic Dhonncha, Conchubhar Ó Luasa, and many more. CLÁR DON DEIREADH SEACHTAINE Dé hAoine 9 Feabhra Ar maidin - Cuairt chultúrtha ar na scoileanna áitiúla 12.10 p.m. - An Saol ó Dheas (RnaG) 9.00 p.m. - Oscailt Oifigiúil an Tionóil & bronnadh Gradaim Niocláis Tóibín ar John Dwyer Tigh an Cheoil Dé Sathairn 10ú Feabhra 9.00 a.m. - Clárú dona Ceardlanna / Workshop Registration - Meánscoil San Nioclás 10.00 a.m. – 2.00 p.m. Ceardlanna/Workshops; Píb uileann, Bosca ceoil, Cansairtín, Déantús. Giolcaigh, Cláirseach, Bodhrán, agus Amhránaíocht – Meánscoil San Nioclás. Fidil, Feadóg mhór, Feadóg stáin – Scoil Náisiúnta na Rinne. Costas €10 12.10 p.m. - Togha agus Rogha le Pádraig Ó Sé, RnaG beo ó Mheánscoil San Nioclás 2.15 p.m. - Taispeántas ceoil le Húlaí - Coláiste na Rinne. 2.30 p.m. - Léacht leis an Dr Breandán Ó Cróinín - “Piaras Mac Gearailt (1709 – c. 1795):

File Déiseach” - Coláiste na Rinne. 3.30 p.m. - Seisiún amhránaíochta - Tigh Uí Mhuirithe. 7.30 p.m. - Ceolchoirm an Tionóil - Halla Pobail na Rinne. Costas €15 /€5. 10.00 p.m. - Club an Tionóil Tigh Uí Mhaonaigh. Dé Domhnaigh 11ú Feabhra 11.30 a.m. - Aifreann an Tionóil. - Séipéal San Nioclás, An Rinn, le Cór Fear na nDéise, á chraoladh beo ar Raidió na Gaeltachta. 12.30 p.m. Leagfar Bláthfhleasc ar uaigh Niocláis. 1.00 p.m. - Club an Tionóil -

Tigh Uí Mhuirithe 2.00 p.m. - Seolfar dlúthdhiosca “Ceolta Néata” le Cór Fear na nDéise – Tigh Uí Mhuirithe Táimid fíor bhuíoch don tacaíocht ón Oifig Ealaíon, Comhairle Contae agus Cathrach Phort Láirge, Ealaín na Gaeltachta agus Údarás na Gaeltachta. Tuilleadh eolais ó Mac Dara Mac Donncha 0868565569. For further information and details on this year’s Tionól check out our facebook page – Tionól Niocláis Tóibín. Cífimíd ann sibh.

COUNTY NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

Waterford ICA Federation AGM OUR AGM this year is at Crotty’s, Lemybrien on Wednesday evening, 28th February at 7.30 p.m. Minaun Guild have kindly offered to be our hosts. You will also have the chance to win a voucher for An Grianan, so all Guilds do please try to attend! If you are taking part in the Gem Pack baking competition of a Battenberg cake, please note that the judging will commence at 7.00 p.m. sharp prior to the start of the

MEMBERS’ DINNER Our annual museum members’ dinner was held last Sunday, 28th January in the Interlude Restaurant, Dungarvan. It was a great night and was thoroughly enjoyed by all who attended. Our thanks to Christina Flynn and Mary Giblin for organising the dinner, to Eddie Bennett and Christina Tobin for the Percy French Presentation and to the Interlude Restaurant for providing the lovely venue on the night. FRANCIS HYSLOP RIP Waterford County Museum would like to extend our deepest sympathies to the Hyslop family on the passing of Francis. Francis' brother-in-law Eddie is a long time member of the Waterford County Museum Society. RECENT PUBLICATIONS The Museum supplied photographs to two recently launched publications. ‘A History of the Dungarvan GAA Club from 1885-2017’ by Tony Ryan, and ‘Dunmore East A Living History’ by Maria Walsh. Both books come highly recommended and are available in local outlets. DVDS FOR SALE IN THE MUSEUM Dungarvan’s Hospitals - A Walking History and Grattan Square – Social History

meeting. There will be updates from the various committee members, so don’t forget your diary! Waterford week has been booked at An Grianan for the end of August, a few places may still be available, but Sandra will update us on that and the various courses running. Mary will run through the dates of the craft days starting with the Social Day on 24th February, and Catherine will tell us of the

Documentary of Dungarvan ‘Dungarvan’s Hospitals - A Walking History’ is a wonderful documentary film made by Eddie Cantwell and Fionn Mac Giolla Chuda, starring Michael Brennan for the Christmas Market. This was shown to two packed houses at the SGC Cinema in Dungarvan, and for all those people who requested copies a DVD is now on sale for €12 at Waterford County Museum in Friary Street. Eddie has decided to use the income from the sales to advance further research at Gallows Hill. Apart from dealing with St. Joseph’s, the documentary which was produced by Eddie and filmed and edited by Fionn, also deals with St. Vincent’s which was standing at the time of filming. Michael Brennan, who Eddie says ‘is the real star of this documentary’, was born at the Gate Lodge back in the 1930s, and his memories of growing up there have now been recorded for prosperity. Eddie continued ‘Michael is clinical, humorous and displays an almost photographic memory about life there. I hardly had to ask him a question he just took off with me in tow. Fionn and I spent some four hours filming and I don’t even want to think about the number of hours that I sat and watched Fionn edit it with clinical

OBJECT OF THE WEEK

Jacob’s Viscount Biscuit Tin c. 1954 The images on the tin depict the Aer Lingus Viscount aircraft and air hostess with the distinctive green colouring. Aer Lingus began purchasing the Vickers Viscount 700 in 1951 and they started service in 1954. They were very popular with passengers.

competitions available. For those of you already interested in, or are you a complete beginner who has always wanted to learn how to paint, why not join the ladies from Glenbeg and other guilds for their painting classes on Saturday 17th and Sunday, 18th February starting at 10.00 a.m. in the ICA hall, Ardmore. They would be delighted to meet you. Looking forward to seeing you all again for the start of another year!

precision’. Also ‘Grattan Square - Social History Documentary of Dungarvan’ is available on DVD for €10 at the Museum. This is an extremely popular film which was also shown to full houses at the SGC Cinema in Dungarvan. Along with the DVDs we also have a great selection of books for sale with local connections. AN EXHIBITION OF WATERFORD INTEREST An Exhibition which is of a County Waterford interest is currently running at Crawford Art Gallery in Cork until 24th February 2018. It is called ‘Stones, Slabs and Seascapes - George Victor Du Noyer’s Images of Ireland’. Du Noyer was employed by the Geological Society of Ireland which was established in 1845 to map all of Ireland, documenting geological, archaeological and historical sites. While his main work involved recording geological features, he also sketched anything of interest he saw, people, ruined churches, castles and towns. He was not a trained artist but produced drawing of a very high standard. While in County Waterford Du Noyer sketched and mapped areas of the Copper Coast and beyond, the Comeragh Mountains etc. A number of his Waterford drawings are included in the exhibition. This is an impressive exhibition which should not be missed. There is also an attractive hardback book available on the exhibition. YOUR CHANCE TO SUPPORT THE MUSEUM Museum membership is available for an annual fee of €15 if you would like to support the work of the Museum. The Museum relies heavily on membership fees, donations and fund raising activities, so we would be delighted if you would join us as a member. As a member you will benefit from knowing that you are supporting the important work of the Museum in County Waterford, plus being informed of various talks, new exhibitions and activities taking place throughout the year. There is also a member’s annual trip and Christmas meal. Please do consider joining us as a

Molly Keane Creative Writing Award 2018 member. You can see the very varied and interesting work of the Museum on our website www.waterfordmuseum.ie including volunteers taking part in local archaeological digs. Call in to see us in Friary Street, or ring us on 058 45960 for more information. DONATION OF OBJECTS AND OLD PHOTOGRAPHS The Museum relies on donations of objects from members of the public. We do not have funds to purchase objects, so we would be very grateful for any objects of local historic interest which you may have in your possession which you would be willing to kindly donate to us. Also if you have any old photographs of people, places, ships, sports events etc. with a County Waterford connection we are very happy to accept them. We can scan them to add to our extensive photographic archive and give you back the originals. By donating items to us you will be playing your part in helping to preserve local history for future generations. You can drop items into us in Friary Street, or call us on 058-45960 to discuss any items you are thinking of donating. VISITING THE MUSEUM We welcome visits from schools, community groups, and local history societies. Please contact us at 058-45960 to arrange a visit. Let us know if you are interested in a particular subject and we will focus on that during the visit. OPENING HOURS Monday to Friday 10.00 a.m. 5.00 p.m. Admission is free.

FIRST WORLD WAR WATERFORD CASUALTY LIST FOR WEEK ENDING 7th FEBRUARY, 2018 Surname First Name Harte James

Age 36

Service No. Rank Service Fireman/Trimmer Merc. Marine

Unit S.S. Treveal

Where Born Waterford

Death Category At Sea

Date of Death 2/4/18

WATERFORD City & County Council’s Arts Office is pleased to announce that it is currently accepting entries for the Molly Keane Creative Writing Award 2018. The late writer lived, until her death in 1996, in Ardmore, Co. Waterford. Her first ten novels and four plays were published under the pseudonym M.J. Farrell. In 1981 ‘Good Behaviour’ became a publishing sensation for which she was short listed for the prestigious Booker Prize. Annually since 1998, to celebrate this rich literary life, the Waterford Arts Office, by kind permission of the Keane family has invited entries for a previously unpublished short story to a maximum of 2,000 words. There is no entry fee, no age limit and no restriction on the subject matter. A prize of €500 will be awarded to the winner at a special ceremony during the IMMRAMA Literary Festival in Lismore, Co. Waterford in June 2018. The closing date for receipt of entries is Thursday, 15th March, 2018 at 12.00 noon. Full details and an entry form can be downloaded from www.waterfordcouncil.ie or by contacting the Arts Office on 05841416.

Abbeyside Scouts AFTER our usual housekeeping, the scouts played a game called "Farmers Hand". They then broke back into their patrols to decide what they will cook for the cooking competition. Writing down exactly what they will need including all ingredients and equipment. When they were happy they had itemised all, they collected the equipment to have it ready for the evening of the competition. It was then time for a few more games. A group style skipping game, a racing game and a very old Scout game. These games challenging reaction, listening, throwing and speed skills among others. Before going home Scouts were reminded that there will be no meeting next Wednesday evening (7th) and that the Scout County fun weekend will take place in Melleray, from 9th to the 11th February. Abbeyside Scouts and parents are asked to keep an eye on our facebook page for updates.

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

COUNTY NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

KILL MAUREEN KIRWAN It is with great sadness that we learned of the death of Maureen Kirwan of Kirwan's Bar last week. Our thoughts and prayers are with husband Tom, sons Keith and Adrian and families, her sister Nellie and the extended family left behind at this sad time. A great community person, there are not many people in Kill and further afield without warm memories of Maureen who touched the lives of so many, be it from good times in the pub, the milk and papers in the shop, at the various community events throughout the years, Maureen was always there with a smile and a chat. It is nearly impossible to imagine village life without meeting her. We will all miss her sorely and pray that she may rest in peace. MICHAEL POWER MEMORIAL CHRISTMAS SWIM As a mark of respect and acknowledgement of the recent passing of Maureen Kirwan RIP, our presentation of the proceeds of the 2017 swim to Touching Hearts, which had been due to take place last Saturday, has been postponed to a later date which will be announced in due course. The Michael Power Memorial Swim Committee would like to offer our sincere sympathy to, her husband Tom, to her sons Adrian and Keith, to her sister Nellie, and to her grandchildren. Maureen was with us in Kilmurrin for our very first swim in 1983 dispensing hot toddies to the swimmers. She was with us for the 2017 swim, and every swim in between. May she rest in peace. KILL GAA LOTTO At last week's Lotto draw in Dunphy's Bar, there was no winner of the €10,000 lotto jackpot. On the night we had two match 3 winners who were Mark Hennessy and Ger Guiry. The numbers drawn on the night were 4, 10, 14 and 18. The Lotto draw was sponsored by Curran Foods. SPRING CLEAN Let us put a spring in your step - Bear with me on this!! There are 8760 hours in 2018, (that's 525,600 minutes!). By the time this article is printed, 864 hours will have already passed, another 106.5 by 10.30 a.m. this coming Saturday 10th February. OK you'll have slept for 320 of them so far by 10.30 a.m. on the 10th February, if you're lucky! Worked, on average, another 320 if you are employed, probably half that again if you're at home! That still leaves at least over 170 hours to date, to do with what you will. How about you GIVE 1, GIVE just one hour, just 60 minutes out of all those half a million minutes this year, to do something worthwhile for YOUR environment. Not only will you be helping

your environment but you'll be helping everyone in your community. The health benefits of giving your time to help others has been proven scientifically, spiritually and anecdotally. Kill Action and Alert Group need that one hour from you this Saturday, 10th February at 10.30 a.m. to help with their first Litterpick of the year. Get out in the fresh air, older children are welcome once supervised, and all equipment is provided. We hope to cover the four roads approaching the village centre and meet up at the community centre. We guarantee you'll not only enjoy it but be astonished by how much you get out of it. If you've made any New Years' Resolutions, make sure the one you stick with is "making me happy" because the best way to achieve that is in giving! So says Aristotle (fact), Gandhi (fact), the Dalai Lama (fact) and Oprah (probably). Don't leave it to everyone else, sign up now with Marie at 086-8385928. Free refreshments afterwards in Kill Community Centre. BINGO BONANZA Bingo nights every second Thursday in Kill Community Centre not only benefit the Community but now also Kill National School! This is a great fun night out and supervised children are welcome with free refreshments provided. Come on, give it a go, you never know your luck! The next Bingo night is on this Thursday, 8th February at 8.00 p.m. ATTENTION ALL PARENTS It is imperative that all parents of children in Kill National School attend the next meeting of the Parents Association at the school this Wednesday, 7th February at 7.30 p.m. All parents are members and important information will be disseminated, particularly on new School Book Rental Scheme. €1,218! Yes you read that correctly. That's how much your old clothes and textiles helped Kill National School raise by collecting the phenomenal amount of 2,436kg of your old clothes, shoes, belts, handbags, bedlinen, towels and soft toys. That's a huge amount of "stuff" saved from the landfill and now benefitting the Friends of Calcutta and Susie Long Foundation charities. That's more raised in one collection than in 3 collections in 2015! The next collection is this Friday, 9th February, with a drop off time between 9.00 a.m. and 10.00 a.m. at Kill National School. So bag up those old clothes, shoes, belts, handbags, towels, bedlinen and soft toys only. NO MORE mobile phones, duvets, pillows or cushions please. Anyone who needs help with collection, please contact Grace

at 086-3289212. And thank you once again for helping us, all that €1,218 will go a long way helping us to establish a new book rental scheme, thus saving families even more money. All from "stuff"! ON YOUR MARKS Watch this space for upcoming details on what our Marathon Mammies and the Copper Coast Crackers have planned next there are exciting announcements ahead! KILL & BONMAHON CARDIAC FIRST RESPONSE GROUP A Cardiac First Response Course will be held in early March. We would urge anyone with an interest to get in contact for more information. More responders in the team means better coverage and the more hands for an emergency situation, the better. The commitment is not as big as you may think and full training will be provided so please consider joining the response group and ensure that the service is continued. At present, the service is at a very real risk of being discontinued as minimum numbers for response teams are outlined in our agreement with the HSE. Call or text 087-4133522 for more information or to express an interest. KILL COMMUNITY CENTRE Our current schedule offers something for everybody: Mondays: Drama Classes in Gealach Gorm Theatre 6.15 p.m. - 7.30 p.m. for 6 to 12 year olds. For further information, please contact Angela at 086-8569358. Zumba/Piloxing with Adriana takes place every Monday from 7.30 p.m. to 8.30 p.m.The cost is €8 per class and no bookings are necessary, just come along and give it a try! Tuesdays: Social dancing is back, now on a different day, every Tuesday from 10.45 a.m. under the direction of Helen Kealy who can be contacted on 086-8541081 for further information. Wednesdays: Kid’s Irish dancing classes provide lots of fun for all levels from 6.00 p.m. to 7.00 p.m. For enquiries, please contact Catriona on 085-1434698. Saturdays: Guitar lessons take place every Saturday from 10.00 a.m. New students are most welcome, please contact Michael on 087-9050190 for information. Our next Bingo night in association with Kill National School takes place this week, Thursday, 8th February. Don't miss out on this great night out! IT'S YOUR COLUMN! If you have any news, announcements or pictures you would like to see in this column, please submit to mareikerembold@eircom.net or contact 087-4133522 for inclusion.

Irene Lawlor, Communications Manager GSK admiring a dog house made in the Shed with Joe O’Reilly and Ger Dalton.

Dungarvan Men’s Shed FREE MEN’S HEALTH EVENT AT SHED The Irish Men’s Shed Association are organising a Men’s Health Event which we are hosting on Tuesday morning 20th February between 10.30 a.m. and 1.00 p.m. This is a free event and men are very welcome to call into the Shed where they will meet and discuss in confidence health matters with the following: • Irish Heart Foundation Mobile Health - Free blood pressure checks • Marie Keating Foundation • HSE Smoking Cessation Support Service • Haven Pharmacy

FURNITURE RESTORATION CALLOUT We have plenty of good quality antique chairs that need restoration but we don’t have a competent person who might help us with this task. This is a callout for any man who has an interest in helping with furniture restoration and who will pass on this skill to a few interested members.

Hopefully, there is somebody in the area who will call into us at some stage. ABOUT THE SHED You are very welcome to call in to the Shed at Wolfe Tone Road to see what we are about. We are open from 10am to 1pm Monday-Friday or contact Oliver Whelan Chairman at (087) 1856067 for further information. Follow us on Facebook at Dungarvan Men’s Shed

POEM Good neighbours, Good neighbours rise from your bed. Take from the pillow your dreamy head. C'mon, C'mon get to your feet. Can’t you hear the melody that’s filling the street? Get dressed now and hurry along. Listen to the birds in their morning song. For every soul this is good food. Feel how quickly it will lift your mood. They sing for the crumbs you give every day. Your generosity they always repay. Hear the thrush and blackbird sweetly now sing. Free is the smile to you they will bring. Singers at dawn for you and for me. Delightful the concert we get for free Ger Dalton

BONMAHON KILL & BONMAHON CARDIAC FIRST RESPONSE GROUP A Cardiac First Response Course will be held in early March.We would urge anyone with an interest to get in contact for more information. More responders in the team means better coverage and the more hands for an emergency situation, the better.The commitment is not as big as you may think and full training will be provided so please consider joining the response group and ensure that the service is continued. Call or text 087-4133522 for more information or to express an interest.

BONMAHON COMMUNITY SOCIETY LOTTO The numbers drawn recently were 10, 14, 18 and 16.We had no Jackpot winner but one lucky player, Ann Concannon, matched 3 numbers to win the €100. Our next Jackpot stands at €9,850. ASTROTURF The AstroTurf Pitch at Stradbally Soccer Club is now available to hire. Newly installed LED Floodlights ensures an even better viewing. For time slot availability talk to Tadhg (087-2306841) or Gerry (087-2245712).

COUNTY NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

STRADBALLY FIRST COMMUNION The date for First Communion in the parish of Stradbally is Saturday, 19th May, 2018 in Holy Cross Church, Stradbally and Sunday, 20th May at St. Ann’s Church, Ballylaneen. NEWSLETTER A newsletter from the Bishop of Waterford and Lismore regarding the safeguarding of children in the Diocese of Waterford and Lismore was distributed at all Masses in the parish on Saturday and Sunday last. A meeting has been arranged at Holy Cross Church, Stradbally for Tuesday, 20th February, 2018 at 8 p.m. The newsletter will be discussed, also the Policy Statement for Safeguarding Children, Safe Recruitment and the annual parish Safeguarding audit. Everyone who undertakes a ministry in a parish is in a position of trust and therefore must be Garda Vetted for their role. Every role in ministry potentially involves contact with children/young people/vulnerable adults and irrespective of the degree of such contact, the Diocese requires all who are employed or who engage in volunteer ministry and works of service are Garda vetted. Safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility and it is vital that everyone whose role involves contact with children attend this meeting. STRADBALLY MARKET Next Saturday, 10th February at the Cove Bar the producers plan to celebrate Pancake Tuesday well in advance and also Valentine’s Day with a huge arrangement of cards for all who are romantically inclined. The home-baking, jams,

Mary’s special black/white sausage rolls will all be on sale, with fresh fruit and vegetables and a special offer on the selection box of veg for €6.There will be tea and scones fresh from the oven and a catch-up on the local news, just drop in anytime from 10.30 a.m. until 12.30 p.m. CLUB SOCIAL The Stradbally GAA Social takes place next Saturday night, 10th February at the Park Hotel, Dungarvan. The music on the night will be provided by Fuse and tickets are on sale at €30. The Stradbally senior footballers will be presented with their county medals by a special guest at the social. This will be a special night not only for the players and club members but for the whole community. The new Stradbally GAA phone number is 087 116 5549 if anyone wishes to make contact. JULIUS PAIMAL COMMEMORATION 100 years ago this month, the body of a sailor came ashore in a small boat in a cove at Island, Stradbally. The sailor was 31year-old Able Seaman Julius Paimal, originally from Estonia, and he was killed when his ship, the SS Pinewood, was sunk by a German submarine fifteen miles south of Mine Head on 17th February, 1918. A group of local men recovered the body, and eventually succeeded in getting it to the top of the cliff. They were: Sergeant O'Connor and Constable Brown, RIC; James Cummins; William Clancy; Michael Cummins; Philip Cummins; Michael Kiely; Patrick Fitzgerald senior and Patrick Fitzgerald junior. Paimal's remains were interred

in the Church of Ireland graveyard in Stradbally on 20th February. This was organised by the local dispensary doctor, Bryan Foley, and the burial was performed by Canon Burkitt. On Saturday, 17th February at 3.00 pm there will be a short commemoration ceremony at Paimal's grave, to honour him a century after his death. All are invited to attend, and it would be particularly fitting if relatives of any of those involved in recovering Paimal's body 100 years ago were able to be there. There will be refreshments afterwards. For more information contact Cian on 086-8961747 or email cianflaherty96@gmail.com. MACBETH, HE PANTO Rehearsing continues for the Barron Hall production of “MacBeth, the panto”. The dedicated crew of actors have learned a number of lines, and are now concentrating on standing in the right place and facing the right direction, both at once. With only weeks to go before the curtain rises the tension on the small stage of the Barron Hall is mounting. Location is everything, and minor territorial disputes have led to nudges from colleagues and occasional words from the director. The musical director kept her temper admirably on Wednesday, when the music and drama were finally combined, or the songs were stuffed in with the chat, as the third witch put it. “Macbeth, the panto” will be performed on the 1st, 2nd and 3rd of March at the Barron Hall, Stradbally. Tickets will go on sale in the village shop, and bookings can be made by text (087 7160 700) from Saturday.

Art Hand - Stradbally THE artistic work on the sand in Stradbally cove last week was created by Sean Corcoran of "Art Hand" Bunmahon and was part of TV3's programme of awareness for upcoming 6 Nations rugby match France v Ireland. Eric Murray TV3 producer, director Alan O’Dwyer and their team brought some excitement to the area. The programme was shown on TV3 on Wednesday before the match and was very well received. Of course the question being asked, is this a once-off or will we see more? We have it from good authority that discussions are taking place for other ideas. "Art Hand" over the last number of years have accommodated in their premisses an event known

as "Words", and the participants included poets, playwrights, comedians, novelists and anybody with a good story to tell. "Words" event began in July 2013, founded by Tom Power, Sean Corcoran of "Art Hand" and Róisín Power Hackett, poet and artist. It was intended as a performance based writers group but has evolved since then to become a monthly celebration of literature and creativity. This is a gathering and opportunity to perform and share knowledge although there is no obligation to take part. Relax and enjoy the show and get some inspiration if you prefer. "Words" 2018 will kick-off in March. Any queries Sean 087-2524657.

Photo Stradbally Cove courtesy of Paddy Barron (4K Drone Guy).

11th Waterford (Dungarvan) Scout Group CUBS have been busy since coming back after the Christmas holidays. Our first activity back was taking part in Waterford Sports Partnership’s Operation Transformation walk on January 13th. We walked from the tennis club in Abbeyside out the Greenway track and we continued on to Clonea Beach and then walked back. Distance was approximately 12km. For our Thursday meetings we have worked on our Stage 1 Adventure Skill Air badge. Cubs did projects on different flying machines, first planes and pilots, we also turned the den into an airport and they acted out all what goes on there! We also cooked on trangias and portable gas stoves. Cubs cooked sausage, beans, eggs and omelettes. We also had a SPICES night, these are the different elements that make up our Cub journey and are in all that we do, they are:

Social, Physical, Intellectual, Character, Emotional and Spiritual. Saturday, 3rd February we headed off on our cub day out. We left the den at 9.00 a.m. and headed by bus to Waterford. First stop was Activate where they took part in Laser tag and bowling. After lunch we headed into the city and had a guided walk-

ing tour of the Viking Triangle and Medieval Museum. Our tour guide Richard took us around Bishops Palace, Reginald’s Tower, Medieval Musuem and was full of information on the Vikings and other historical figures from Waterford. Hot chocolate and cookies was on the menu before we got back on the bus and headed to Waterford Airport. We got to walk around the airport and see their firetrucks, and this will tick off part of their Air Badge. We came home via the coast road and stopped off in Bunmahon to see Rescue 117 who were out on their training at the GAA field. We arrived home just before 6.00 p.m. Thanks to all the staff at Activate Waterford, Waterford Treasures, our guide Richard, Bobby in Waterford Airport, crew of Rescue 117 and Matt Flaherty our bus driver. We all had a great and fun day out and learnt lots about our City!

COUNTY NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

ARDMORE Dungarvan Toastmasters OUR next meeting will be in the Park Hotel this Thursday, February 8th. Meetings take place on the 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month at 8.00 p.m.We welcome new members. At our last meeting we had a most interesting speech from Michael on geneology. Researching the family tree is his special interest. Nora gave an

Ardmore Tidy Towns TIDY TOWNS AGM The Ardmore Tidy Towns Association AGM will be held at The Round Tower Hotel on next Monday, February 12th at 8.00 p.m. We’ve been doing a fair bit of organisational and background work through the winter and so we are hoping for a good turnout on the 12th. Come along and give us a hand. ALL-IRELAND CHAMPIONS St. Declan’s GAA Club, representing our little parish of Ardmore and Grange, were crowned All Ireland Champions at Croke Park on Sunday when they beat St. Mogue’s of Fethard, Co. Wexford in the All Ireland Junior Hurling Final. This is stuff beyond the dreams and what a climax as they became the first Waterford Club to win an All Ireland, the first Waterford men’s team to bring silverware out of Croke Park since 1959. The ladies of course, Mary O’Donnell and Lisa Prendergast included did it numerous times. The match reports will be carried all over the papers so I’m not going to bore you with my take, except to acknowledge ‘the David Gartland moment’ as one of the finest points I have seen in Croke Park or anywhere else in a lifetime of following, a point that will define him and this club forever. But they were all heroes the subs, selectors, officers, back room team, and all the players. Amazing to think that several of them were under 10s and 12s when Seamus, Declan, Wayne, James, Cathal, Richie and Niall were winning titles for fun. So watch out for Sundays under 11s coming through to join some of these in our adult teams in a few years. Take a bow too all the people who have taken the club through thick and thin. John and Jamesie O’Donnell who maintain one of the best pitches in Ireland to practice hurling all year round, all the clubs officers and those who coached all those lads for generations, especially John Hennessy and John Power. This title is the richly deserved ultimate award for a wonderful lifetime of community effort where every corner of the parish played their part. Testimony to this was the huge support in Croke Park on Sunday. Exiles flew in from the U.K., Europe, Canada and the U.S.A. and travelled from all over the country to support. Mention too all the people from our neighbouring clubs and from all over the county who travelled to support us. Nobody but everybody organised an impromptu but unforgettable homecoming on Sunday night. Bonfires blazed, the historic and iconic Round Tower was lit up in blue, the gable end of The Cliff House Hotel was lit up in blue with a message of congratulations beamed onto the wall, St Declan’s Hall was a sea of blue. Supporter, commentor, former player and Newstalk’s presenter Oisín Langan, took the stage as M.C. and introduced them all to a packed crowd where there actually wasn’t standing room in the Hall, as many had to listen from the street! Credit the team and mentors for coming straight home (they arrived about 9.30 p.m.) to celebrate. Men, women and children turned out to welcome them and plenty of tears flowed. Again many, many supporters from our neighbouring parishes came along to welcome the team home. That’s the GAA, that’s community spirit, that’s voluntary effort. Indeed that’s what defines our nationality and individuality as a nation – volunteerism and community interest and effort. UNDER 11S TOO What a smashing gesture from the GAA to invite the under 11 teams from Ardmore & Fethard to play each other at half time and indeed we won that too by 2 goals to nil as many of our future stars got

KILMACTHOMAS Supporting Ardmore in the AIB GAA All Ireland Junior Club Hurling final in Croke Park were Sean, Gearoid, Chloe and Maire Seward. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport] the treat of a lifetime to play in Croke Park. For the record our panel on the day was: 1. Luke Hennessey 2. Darragh Fitzgerald 3. Tommy Carlton 4. Sean Power 5. Fionn O’Carroll 6. Rachel Murray 7. Grace Moloney 8. Liam Lynch 9. Chloe Seward 10. Dominic Broderick 11. Grace Reardon 12. Ciara Quinn 13. Jack Ahern 14. Aoife Broderick 15. Paul Morrissey. Ray Power manager. 3 selectors Glynn Moloney, Cathal Hennessy and Mike Murray. Well done all. BIRD SURVEY Devoted bird watcher, Sean Hogan visited Ardmore National School recently and gave a really informative talk to the children and the following week he visited the senior citizens of Déuglán Fáilte in St. Declan’s Hall and addressed them as well. It’s amazing the knowledge he was able to impart to us about our little feathered friends and their strengths and weaknesses, threats and opportunities. He also asked both to complete a survey of their garden birds and the data will be included in the National Survey of garden birds. 45 AT KEEVERS Martin Keevers & Jason Lenane snatched the honours at Keeevers last week with James Flavin & John Cronin 2nd and 3rd was shared by Pat & Mary Prendergast and Jay Prendergast & Willie Keane. Tom Power & Michael O’Reilly were best of the last 5 were Biddy Power & Liz Griffin and won the last game. Poker at Round Tower Hotel. Richie Stilwell was the winner of last week’s final with James Bryan in the runner up spot just ahead of young pretender Nathan. Redmond Foley celebrated his runaway league win with a winner on the runners up table but other results saw James Bryan jump from 5th to 2nd place overall with Mr. Consistency, Ger Cronin remaining in third. Aidan Quirke from The Round Tower Hotel, who kindly sponsored the prizes, presented Redmond with his perpetual trophy at the end of the night. See Ardmore Tidy Towns FB page. SYMPATHY Ardmore Tidy Towns Association offer our sincere sympathy to Sheila Kennedy and her children Alice, Johnny, Aidan and Robert and their extended families on the death of John Kennedy, which occurred last week. One of nature’s gentlemen, John will be missed throughout the community and beyond. He was generations ahead of his time in business and electrics and electronics, yet he loved the old and ancient in music and history and people. He was constantly giving to the community and just could not say ‘no’. A man of whom it truly can be said: ‘ní beidh a leitéad ann arís’. Ar dheis Dé go raibh sé.

Ardmore/Grange Community Alert A MEETING of the Ardmore / Grange Community Alert will be held in the I.C.A. Hall Ardmore on Thursday next, 8th February at 8.30 p.m. All are welcome to attend.

inspiring talk on how to motivate using the guidelines in the toastmaster manual. After the tea/coffee break we had topics which were both serious and humorous and ranged from holidays, tourism, equality etc. The meeting was chaired by our President Ann and Toastmaster Marita. New members are most welcome.

The agenda will include: Garda Report by Garda Colm O’ Callaghan; Update on the operation of the Garda text alert; Review of list of elderly living alone; Update on Personal Panic Alarms.

AWARD FOR WATERFORD GREENWAY Waterford's stunning Greenway scooped two awards at Croke Park on Sunday, 4th February. Getting gold in the All Ireland Community and Council awards and been crowned Ireland's best Tourism Initiative in the competition. Also winning the "Grand Prix Award" for 2018, a special commendation for outstanding excellence and an award presented to projects that received the highest marks from the competitions esteemed judging panel. This 46km off the road walk / cycle Greenway will celebrate its 1st birthday on March 25th and has

seen almost 250,000 use this fantastic amenity which stretches from Waterford city to Dungarvan in its first year. Congratulations to all involved with the Greenway, a very proud day for you all. WALK THE GREENWAY Walk for Life 2018, Waterford Sport Partnership have organised a walk on the Greenway for over 50's and people with a disability on Tuesday, 13th February, meeting point Coach House Car Park at 10.30 a.m. €3 to include tea/ coffee/ scone. Booking essential contact Peter on 0761-102191. LOTTO DRAW Kilmacthomas AFC lotto draw results for Saturday February 3rd,

letters drawn C, O, X, Z. No jackpot winner. Five winners of €20 each to Trevor Whelan, c/o PPI; Peter Walsh, c/o PPI; Bill Bowdren, c/o PPI; Rose Power, Shanakill and Catherine Sandford, Kilmacthomas. Next week’s jackpot is €650 be in to win. WHIST CLUB Ballylaneen Whist Club results for Monday 29th January – Nicola Carroll, Veronica Walsh, Kay Veale, Rosie Keane, Eric Townsend, Stess Connolly, Monica Gough, Hannah McGrath, Linda Dempsey, Sheila Morrissey and Mary Walsh. Raffle winners Sheila Morrissey, Mary Daye and Kathleen Foran.

KILROSSANTY I.C.A. Kilrossanty members and their friends went for their Annual Dinner last Friday night. They had a most delicious meal in Kiersey’s Kilmacthomas. Thanks to the staff of Kiersey’s for the lovely meal. Once again Molly, Kay and Liz had it organised thanks to them. The monthly meeting will be held on Monday, 12th February at 8.00 p.m. The competition is for a home made scone with a Valentine theme to it. So get baking. ST. BRIGID Many people visited the Wells last Thursday in

honour of St. Brigid, the Patron Saint of Kilrossanty. Mass was celebrated on Thursday night in Kilrossanty. Many people took home a St. Brigid’s Cross which was available at Mass.They were made by the pupils of Kilrossanty School. Thanks to the teachers of the school who keep on this tradition. DEISE DRAW Ticket will be available soon for the new round of the Deise Draw which will start in May. CONGRATS Well done to Ardmore who won the All-Ireland Junior Hurling final last Sunday in Croke Park.

Tionól na nDéise mar chuid de Thionól Niocláis Tóibín MEABHRÚCHÁN go mbeidh an Dr. Breandán Ó Cróinín, léachtóir i gColáiste Mhuire gan Smál, i mbun cainte ag Tionól na nDéise i Rinn Ó gCuanach ar an Satharn beag seo, 10 Feabhra ag a 2.30 i.n. i gColáiste na Rinne. Tá an chaint seo á reachtáil ag Oifig na Gaeilge, Comhairle Cathrach & Contae Phort Láirge mar chuid de chlár imeachtaí Thionól Niocláis Tóibín, a bheidh ar siúl sa Rinn ón 9-11 Feabhra. Labharfaidh An Dr. Ó Cróinín faoin dteideal “Piaras Mac Gearailt (1709 – c. 1795): File Déiseach”, agus é ag díriú isteach ar shaol agus ar shaothar an fhile cáiliúil ó Bhaile Mhac Óda in Oirthear Chorcaí, Piaras Mac Gearailt, a scríobh dánta cáiliúla ar nós ‘Rosc Catha na Mumhan’ agus ‘Seán Ó Díghe’ (agus seans go mbeidh cúpla véarsa des na hamhráintí seo le cloisint le linn na cainte!). Mar sin, beidh fáilte roimh gach aoinne chuig Coláiste na Rinne ar an Satharn, 10 Feabhra ar a 2.30 i.n. don ócáid saor in aisce seo, ag a ndéanfar cheiliúradh ar ár dteanga, ár n-oidhreacht agus ár stair dhúchasach.

A reminder that Dr. Breandán Ó Cróinín, lecturer in Mary Immaculate College, Limerick will give the Tionól na nDéise talk on this coming Saturday, 10 February at 2.30pm in Ring College. This event is being organised by the Irish Office of Waterford City & County Council as part of the Tionól Niocláis Tóibín weekend-long festival of traditional music and song, which takes place in An Rinn this weekend, 9-11 February. Dr Ó Cróinín will speak on the theme of “Piaras Mac Gearailt: File Déiseach” [Piaras Mac Gearailt: Déise Poet] and he will examine the life and works of the famous 18th century poet from Ballymacoda in East Cork, Piaras Mac Gearailt, whose cultural legacy includes such wonderful compositions as ‘Rosc Catha na Mumhan’ and ‘Seán Ó Díghe’ (and you may even hear some verses of these songs being sung during the talk!). Therefore, all are welcome to attend this free event, Tionól na nDéise in Ring College on Saturday, 10th February at 2.30 pm, where we will celebrate our rich Irish language culture and heritage.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

COUNTY NEWS

BALLINAMEELA CURRENT EVENTS ON IN THE HALL AND LOCAL COMMUNITY

By Donal Buckley

Off the Grid

THIS world seems to have a huge problem with how to deal with women. It seems that the female of the species is so complicated that society can't decide how to treat them. The news this week that the new owners of Formula 1 motor racing have decided to dispense with the services of the "Grid Girls" has had mixed reactions. This was compounded by World Darts, who thought that removing the "walk on" girls from the vicinity of the OCHE would give their 'sport' more kudo's and make them look less like beer swilling lounge lizards. If the American owners of Formula 1 want to continue their political correctness to its natural conclusion, why don't they insist that all fuel in cars must have emissions within acceptable environmental guidelines. Why not reduce the possibility of injury or death by having speed limits, 60kph on the bends and 70kph on the straights, AND no overtaking on the bends. They could add traffic lights at the pit stops to prevent pile ups and make the drivers pre-pay for their fuel and change their own tyres. That would bring the element of realism to the sport. While they are at it, why not introduce a lollipop lady(sorry, person) and a pedestrian crossing at regular intervals of the track, so that photographers can get better angles and maybe fans could get selfies with the drivers. Then, we can start talking about the carbon footprint of moving this colossal circus around the world. The Grid Girls are young models whose job it is to stand at the cars holding numbered paddles. The numbers are to inform the drivers, mechanics, fans and commentators of each competitors position on the starting grid. The girls get paid for this job, and most of them are able to afford the fees for a college education because of it. There has never been complaints of impropriety or abuse of any kind. This is not just because Harvey Weinstein doesn't own a racing team. Its probably because, the industry is populated with mechanics, technicians and petrol heads.You know...nerds. They wouldn't know how to talk to girls in the first place.

Taking these opportunities away from young girls to make a living in this area is sending out, however well meaning, the wrong message. The message is, if you are an attractive girl and you look after your appearance, there's nothing for you. If this situation is starting with Formula 1 and Darts, it will soon spread to the ring girls in Boxing and cheer leading. Then where do we go, beach volleyball, swimming, tennis, gymnastics or athletics. Maybe we should ban women attending or participating in sport altogether. To hell with it, lets impose Sharia Law while we're at it. This is a badly misguided attempt to portray certain macho sports as caring about the objectification of females. Instead it’s just excluding women from another source of employment. If they are so worried about perceived exploitation, why not pay the girls more money. Meanwhile, one of the most educated, accomplished and articulate women on the planet is excluded from a conference about..... women. Former President of Ireland Mary McAleese has been banned from taking part in The International Women's Day conference which was due to be held in the Vatican. The ban was imposed on her by a Cardinal Kevin Farrell (originally from Drimnagh in Dublin), who also banned Ssenfuka Joanita Warry, a Ugandan LGBT advocate. The Vatican, never ones to be outdone in the prejudice stakes, failed to overturn, or even address, the decision. In fact, the whole event has now been moved to a venue OUTSIDE of the Vatican State. This conference was supposed to be a celebration of the experiences of women in Catholicism. Somehow, I think the tone of the discussions won't be as positive as originally intended. Ballinameela Creatives don't get the whole prejudice thing. I hope we aren't abnormal in this belief. Mary McAleese said, "The extent to which all people in our society are made to count, and believe that they count, is not just a measure of decency; it makes sound economic sense."

BALLINAMEELA AGLISH DRAMATICS BAD will be performing their latest play Second Honeymoon from February 23rd to 25th in Carriglea Hall. To book your tickets for this hilarious play text your name and number of tickets to 087-4447013. BODY CONDITIONING AND CIRCUIT TRAINING CLASSES Body Conditioning and Circuit Training Classes on in Ballinameela Community Centre ever Monday Night between 7.00 p.m. - 8.00 p.m. Classes cost €5. All levels of fitness catered for. Enquiries text or call 0878229762. LADIES INDOOR SOCCER Ladies indoor soccer on every Tuesday night at 7.00 p.m. in the Community Centre. Contact Noirin Kelly on (086) 8362695 if interested. BALLINAMEELA ADULT & TODDLER GROUP The Ballinameela 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 0879718945. FINISK VALLEY AC NOTES 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 Monday and Wednesday evenings from 7.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m., Minimum age limit is 5 years old (Child needs to be School going). Full programme of events can be obtained at our training session. 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. Contact Mairead on 087-7681975 if interested. COMMUNITY ALERT There is a Community Alert text system in place - text your name and mobile number to this number: 0873538347. It works in 2 ways. Firstly a message regarding any suspicious activity is sent to your phone so you can be on the look-out. 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 BOOKING THE HALL If you would like to start your own indoor soccer game for the Winter or

other activity you can book the hall through our booking officer Alison Curran on 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, contact Alison Curran also. Maureen Culloo is responsible for the month of February for opening and closing the Community Centre and can be contacted on 086-3428621. LOTTO RESULTS 5/2/’18 – Numbers drawn were 2, 19 and 26. There was no Jackpot winnere. €20 winners were Paddy O’Keeffe, Ballinameela; Tanya and Brian Aglish; Helen Cummins, Woodstock; Aoife McHugh, Ballinameela and Peaky Blinders c/o Cruiscín. Next week’s Jackpot is €6,400 and the draw will take place in Deise Brú. NOTES FOR INCLUSION If you have something you would like included in the Ballinameela notes you can email Brigid Byrne on brigidmhallahan@gmail.com or phone 087-9194287. You can also Follow and like us on our Facebook Page Ballinameela Community Centre.

Ballinameela Aglish Dramatics BALLINAMEELA/Aglish Dramatics are coming to town again!! Yes it's that time of year.The cast are busy learning lines from scrumpled scraps of scripts, the set crew are busy digging screws out of last year's set, the director Dan Fenton, is checking the mirror everyday noticing a few more grey hairs and the audience is getting ready to roll in the aisles again!! This year's production is "Second Honeymoon" and it's coming to Carriglea hall on February 23rd to February 25th. Another cracking evening lies in store with debut director Dan Fenton presiding over affairs. Dan and co are busy putting the frantic touches on a laugh out loud comedy where a couple revisit the place where it all began, the place they spent their honeymoon. All manner of things go wrong, leading to hilarity right through the night. Dan has assembled a fine cast with old BAD favourites like William O’Brien, Caroline O’Connor, Henry O’Keeffe And Pat O’Brien leading the fray. Years of theatrical experience in those names

and with a sprinkling of new faces and some not so new faces, a great night of theatre is guaranteed. Be sure to book

early as tickets will sell out. To do so text your name and the number of tickets you want to 087-4447013.

Michael Hourigan sits perplexed on the couch while Willie O’Brien and Emma Barrett confuse him!

The Drama Circle WHEN we met in January for Drama Circle, it was all about books. Stories about good books read, conversations about authors, readings from a selection of novels, and the merits of different styles of writing. We had our story tellers who shared their own stories. Thats the thing about Drama Circle. Anything goes, and we never know from month to month what is going

to crop up. Keeps it interesting. This month, we welcome Charlie O’Donoghue back to the helm. Free from the hectic world of Panto, Mrs Potts is looking forward to her return, and, I promise there will be no Chris de Burgh imitations from yours truly! As it is the eve of Valentine’s day, and love is in the air, we invite you to bring along a love story, or poem, or a piece of prose, or indeed, anything you

would like to contribute. Maybe you would just like to listen to the contributions. Whatever! Feel free to join us. Our next evening is Tuesday, 13th February, 8.00 p.m. to 9.30 p.m., in the intimate room upstairs in Merry’s, with thanks to Emilene. 087 2655645 after office hours for more information, or follow The Drama Circle on Facebook.

COUNTY NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

LISMORE Lismore Tidy Towns DISPOSAL of plastic has become an environment problem worldwide. It has been estimated that one million plastic bottles are bought worldwide every minute and unless something is done that the annual consumption will reach half a trillion bottles by 2021. Recent research has also revealed that 6.3 billion tons of plastic waste produced between 1950 and 2015 has ended up in land fill or in the environment including the oceans. Plastic contamination is now found in everything from tap water

to sea salt. Is there anything that you can do to reduce the use of plastic in your home or business? Even with the cold showery weather of late, our two CES workers have got on with their work in Lismore town and have carried out the following work, sweeping, weeding and washing in the Millennium Park, weeding of planted areas at the entrance to Beechgrove, the rose bed at East Main Street and cleaning the planted area at the pointed part of the Triangle. The first Tidy Towns General

Bunscoil Bhóthar Na Naomh ENROLMENTS are now being taken for Junior Infants class (September ‘18) in Bunscoil Bhóthar Na Naomh. Parents are requested to contact the school as soon as possible if they have not already received an application form.

Meeting of 2018 will be held on Thursday, 22nd February at 8 p.m. in the St. Vincent de Paul rooms, Chapel Place. New members very welcome, so please put this date in your diary if you are interested in getting involved. ECO TIP OF THE WEEK More tips on going green in your garden: WEEDING:• the best way to keep weeds under control is by hoeing annual weeds and digging out perennial ones • a good thick mulch will also suppress weed growth as well as retaining moisture in the soil • plant ground cover plants such as alchemilla in larger areas • use boiling water on weeds in gravelled or paved areas or use a flame gun

Lismore Dramatic Society 'RICHARD FITZGERALD FUND' We were delighted to have some of our members involved on Saturday morning last in the recording of a charity CD for the "Richard Fitzgerald Fund". 12 year old Richard was sadly diagnosed in November 2017 with an incurable brain stem tumour. John Stack and Kris Cowming came up with the wonderful idea of gathering a group of volunteers to record the 'Coldplay' song "FIX YOU" to raise funds for Richard and his family and to aid in research into child cancers. It was a wonderful and very moving occasion for all on Saturday last as the track was recorded. The CD will be available in the coming weeks so please donate to this wonderful and most deserving cause and maybe buy a few copies for your

friends at home and abroad. Situations like this bring life into perspective. A special thanks to John and Chris for their wonderful work and to everybody involved and we have no doubt the generosity of you the public will ensure huge sales of this beautiful recording. John Ryan & Louise O'Shea Our next Production of "BROADWAY BLOCKBUSTERS" will open in early April at the Courthouse Theatre Lismore. Rehearsals are in full swing three nights a week under Directors Amy and John and once again this promises to be a wonderfully entertaining show with something for all the family. Watch this space for details of bookings and dates. New members always welcome to help out in all areas on and off stage.

Parish of Lismore & Ballysaggart ASK a sick person about the value of health, ask a troubled person about the value of a peaceful and contented soul. We salute all who bear the burden of either physical or emotional illness in their person. You have much to teach us who think we are healthy. Often times healthy people live very foolish life styles. Care of our Spiritual health has great bearing on our overall wellbeing. We may say that spiritual health is our harmony with our ideals and values and behaviour. Everyone, even those who do not claim to believe have a spiritual aspect to their lives. We are all, without exception both body and spirit. For us who truly believe in God, in Jesus Christ our spirituality is formed by our relationship with Jesus Christ, with the power of the Spirit. Sunday is world day of prayer for the sick, also feast of our Lady of Lourdes. We will pray for all who are carrying the cross of suffering, they are one with the Christ who suffered. How greatly blessed are those who can in love unite their suffering with the sufferings of Christ for the sake of His Body, the Church. As a parish community all of us have privileged ministry to those who are sick, even if it is simply visiting them on a regular basis, be they at home, in general hospitals and especially if they are in nursing or rest homes. How vexatious it is to see a big gathering at a funeral of a person who spent many days in loneliness who received very few kindly visits.Visit while the person is still living. That’s when it truly matters. Ask an addicted person about the virtue of temperance. How an addicted person longs for the freedom temperance brings to their soul. Temperance

is balance, is moderation, is being able to say ‘I have enough’ without going to excess. Our prayers can often turn towards those who struggle with addictions of one kind or another. As we pray for those who are coping with addictions, we do so in a spirit of humility and gratitude that we are spared that road of life. With Lent coming it is good for Faith people to see what definite forms of penance they might undertake as preparation for Easter. Abstaining from the consumption of Alcohol is a stiff challenge for many but it is both a gift to themselves and to their families. In our parish there will be many good people who will do just this. Others will give greater time to their families, developing a shared prayer life. Ash Wednesday is a Day of Fast and Abstinence. Hunger is good for it puts us in touch with the needs of the Body. It is also Valentine’s Day. Those who truly love, and not with an egotistical love know real dying to self is involved in true love. Penitential Ashes will be given out at the 10.00 a.m. morning Mass and at the 7.00 p.m. evening Mass in Balysaggart on Ash Wednesday. Family Fast Trocaire Boxes will also be handed out. Thanks in the past for taking and returning them at the Mass of the Lord’s Supper on Thurday, 29th March. MASS TIMETABLE Weekday Mass at 10.00 a.m. Saturday, 10th February - Vigil Mass in Lismore at 6.15 p.m. Sunday, 11th February - 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

Community Centre Opening 2007 Sandra Burke, Ann Devine, Very Rev. Fr. Arthure.

CAPPOQUIN Cappoquin Community Centre Phone (058) 52746 – email ocappdev@eircom.net – Facebook – Cappoquin Community Centre HALL BOOKINGS All users of the Community Centre individuals, clubs, groups are reminded to book their preferred time for using our facilities. Demand this year is higher than ever with the great success of the Waterford/Wexford ETB classes. GYM The new Table Cross Multifunctional Machine is proving very popular. Fancy doing your training session before you go to Work/School or College well now you can as our ultramodern Gym. Our Gym is equipped with Irelands most ultra-modern equipment which can cater from all Cardiovascular equipment to all Resistance training machines and loose weights.You can pay as you go or join up as a member. Our prices are most competitive with yearly membership is €200, 6 months €100, 3 months €60 and monthly €25.

WEEKLY EVENTS IN HALL Gym opening times are 8.00 a.m. to 10.00 p.m., Gym Instructor Conor Prendergast available to offer every assistance on (087) 1247025. Ladies Exercise Classes 10.30 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. with Paul Murray, Monday Affane Bridge. Quiddlers from 10.00 a.m. 12.00 noon on Wednesdays, Thursday morning 10.30 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. Ladies Exercises with Paul Murray, Community Soccer 8.30 p.m. to 10.00 p.m. Friday evenings Gymnastics 5.00 p.m. to 8.00 p.m. MARY BUTLER TD Mrs. Mary Butler TD Fianna Fail will hold a Clinic on the first Saturday of every month at 12.30 p.m. in the Community Centre, all are welcome. WATERFORD WEXFORD ETB Just a reminder anyone interested in doing a wide range of

courses contact Edel Walsh (058) 52570 First Floor of the Community Centre. COMMUNITY CENTRE LOTTO JACKPOT HITS €5,300 Lotto draw 5th February, 2018 - Jackpot €5,200 – Numbers drawn were 8, 16, 25 and 28. No Winner. Consolation Prize winners: James Bennett Ballysaggart; Odhran Prendergast 24 Abbeyglen; Mary M. Hennessey, Dromana; Margaret O’Shea, Shanbally; Jacinta Uniacke, Lower Main Street. Next week’s draw is on the 12th February, 2018, with a jackpot of €5,300. 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!

MODELIGO LOTTO RESULTS 7th FEBRUARY Numbers drawn were 1, 11 and 30. No winner. €25 winners – Aoife & Ellen O’Byrne, Patrick McGrath, Fr. Kiely and Gerry Dennehy. Next week’s Jackpot €1,000. LOURDES INVALID FUND A Coffee Morning will be held on Friday, 23rd February in the Parochial hall Cappoquin at 10.00 a.m. in aid of the Cappoquin/Affane/Modeligo Lourdes Invalid Fund. Please come along and support this worthy fund raiser. BALLINAMEELA / AGLISH DRAMATICS Ballinameela / Aglish Dramatics (BAD) will be staging Sam Crees hilarious play Second Honeymoon at Carriglea hall on the weekend of

February 23rd, 24th and 25th.With a cast of 12 actors on stage it’s a major project for the group and among those treading the boards are a number of actors who graced the Modeligo stage with great success in the past such as Caroline O’Connor, Emma Barrett, Michael Hourigan, Henry O’Keeffe etc. A great nights laughter assured.See elsewhere for booking details. NOTES Anyone wishing to include items in the Parish notes, please contact Monica before 8.00 p.m. on Mondays on 087-4112798 or email them to marymonicaobyrne@gmail.com. BOOKINGS Anyone looking to book the Astro-turf or Hall please contact John Power on 087-2834600.

Ballysaggart Community Council 45 Card Results 1st: Tom O’Grady and Delia Cashell. 2nd: Dan Howard and Fionula Hynes. Lucky Tables: Peggy O’Donoghue and Liz McCarthy, Peg Murray and Helen Cunningham,

Stephen Cunningham and Fr. Cullinan. Tickets: Helen Cunningham, Peggy O’Donoghue, Joan Hannon x 2, Fr. Cullinan and Sheila Lonergan.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

TD $BUIBSUIB $FBQBDI $IPJOO /B

‘HER STORY’ Cappoquin Heritage Group continues its work in compiling their next publication, celebrating the contribution of women to all aspects of Cappoquin history and life. At this stage, we have ten articles and a number of shorter pieces in, with promises of over twenty more articles in the offing during the spring. Our aim is to publish the book next November, in good time for the centenary of the first Irish woman elected to parliament. That honour, of course, went to Countess Constance Markievicz but we have certainly unearthed a number of truly remarkable local stories of women who made giant leaps in politics, business, education, sport and literature over many years. Anyone with interesting photographs, stories or histories

to add to the mix, please contact Kevin McCarthy at 0876501042 within the next few weeks. We need to have everything together several months before publication so please, if you have something to offer don’t leave it too late to get in touch. This week's photo shows one of the poets coming to the Library on April 26th, the wonderful Thomas McCarthy, pictured here with the late Mollie Keane, the famous author of 'Good Behaviour' and herself a one-time Cappoquin inhabitant. Sally Phipps' story of Molly Keane and her Cappoquin connections is one of those to be featured in the forthcoming publication. FIREMEN’S LADDER CLIMB A huge thanks to our local fire

COUNTY NEWS crew who raised a huge total for several local causes through their ladder climb of St. Anne’s Church in December. The proceeds were shared out at the fire station on Tuesday last, January 23rd, and Cappoquin Civic Link’s share of €797 was gratefully received by treasurer, Mary Murray.We can assure both the fire service and all donors that we will try very hard to use it productively on local causes in 2018. For the record, the firemen who did all the work were Eddie and James Coffey, Pat Morrissey, John Noonan, Seamus McLaughlin, Niall O'Connor, Conor Prendergast and Station Officer Fintan Murray. CHRISTMAS RIBBONS In the same vein, we can now report that the total raised for Civic Link from the Christmas ribbons contributions came to just on €600 last month. Again, a very sincere thanks to all who contributed, and funds raised will go to keeping the Christmas lights and community event insurance going for the foreseeable future, as previously. Though we mentioned it before, once again a huge thanks to everyone who helped make the Christmas lighting and

Christmas tree happen again this year, including Michael Coffey and Seán Troy who undertook the job of taking the lights down recently. Everyone's efforts make a real difference to the place, have no doubt. NATIONAL POETRY DAY SCHOOLS’ COMPETITION As part of its efforts to celebrate the story of women in local life, the Heritage Group is staging a competition for pupils at Bunscoil Gleann Sídheáin, and for students in Blackwater Community School, inviting them to write a poem about a woman who is important to them. She could be young, old, a family member, a neighbour, famous or not, tall or small. Remember there are all sorts of poems, some rhyme and some do not, some are long, some are very short. Your teachers will have all the necessary details this week, and the closing day for receipt of entries is Tuesday, 20th March. The schools will be notified of winners by 25th April and a selection of winning entries will be published in the Cappoquin Heritage group’s book to celebrate local women for the centenary of women getting the

Thomas McCarthy and Molly Keane. vote, in November 2018. Poems will also be displayed in Cappoquin library for national poetry day and, as previously mentioned, we are planning to hold a major poetry reading event at the library on the

evening of Thursday, 26th April too. In the meantime, let’s get writing and remember, the most important is to have fun and enjoy writing about the woman you chose.

what followed made me cry. ‘The red shoes were pilfered,’ Miss Kerfoot told my mammy, ‘taken from the shop in broad daylight yesterday. Guard O’Reilly was called but we don’t expect to find the culprit.’ Devastated, we both left. ‘Daddy will be disappointed, he wanted you to have those shoes, Nora.’ In another part of the town lived a girl whose biggest weakness was for what is sometimes known as the ‘five fingered discount’. She would steal anything not too firmly glued down, not because the items held any intrinsic value for her, but simply for the love of devilment. On the day of the incident I found myself alone in Miss Kerfoot’s shop, apart from the afore-mentioned girl, who when I first spotted her had her hands innocently resting on a bright, shiny and pretty butterfly broach. ‘Surely that will be noticed if it goes missing,’ my thoughts ran wild with a vicarious panoply of worry, guilt, fear and uncertainty. We both stood there when Miss Kerfoot returned, my ‘friend’ with a pure face

of innocence. The old proprietress asked: ‘Have you paid for that broach yet?’ ‘What broach, Miss Kerfoot?’ she asked, with not a quiver or a shake in her voice. ‘The one you took, you naughty girl!’ I was frozen when the other girl, her eyes pretending to widen with surprise, opened her pocket out and exclaimed with a horrified tone: ‘Oh! Nora must have slipped it into my pocket when I didn’t see. Miss Kerfoot replied: ‘I don’t believe you, and not for the first time you know.Your father will have to be told. I was so relieved, but still recall that neither Miss Kerfoot nor I ever saw the wonderful red shoes again, in any case. Miss Kerfoot has long ago left this earth, her emporium closed forever. Only her name, written in bold embossed lettering over the façade, stands testament to what was, at one time, both a child’s magical playground of colours and shapes and, for almost everyone else, an institution.

‘Miss Kerfoot’s Emporium” THIS week, we include in its entirety a lovely reflection by Maggie Cahill of Mill Street, on a shop which many will remember fondly either as Mary Kerfoot's or, later, as Bab Lacey's. One way or another, we think this will bring a smile to many local faces and we are delighted to say that the story will also feature in our next publication, 'Cappoquin: Her Story' later in 2018. 'MISS KERFOOT’S EMPORIUM' BY MAGGIE CAHILL It was very small, even to me as a child. The door itself was like a lost keyhole into which wonder opened. Inside was dark but not dreary in any way. Full to bursting drapery of every fashion hung on hangers, bulging out the open doorway painted cream and only noticeable when closed, which was not often. The shop was infectious to me as a little girl. It was a spot where anything could be pulled out, from knickers elastic to nighties, from Aran jumpers to men’s socks, from buttons to bows, from silk ribbons to long Johns, from coloured paisley patterns to pillows, from threads of many colours to fasteners, from raincoats to wellies, from canvas runners to sheets, from Communion dresses to patent shoes, from zips to hats. Miss Kerfoot had everything, kept in boxes, on shelves, out in the back room, under the counter, high up where the wooden steps were needed to get at the cloth line fashions that hung from above the counter. Miss Kerfoot was always old with a long wisp of hair dangling from a mole above her upper lip. Her salt and pepper hair sat in small tight curls under a fawn hair net. Unsurprisingly, along with curlers, she also sold hair nets. She wore a lot of clothes, layers with cardigans knitted by herself. On her hands she had gloves with no fingers (also available to buy). Her lipstick was pink and edged above her upper lip while on her cheeks was a pale powder that ended on her chin, topped with red rouge highlighting

her cheekbones. There was nearly always someone else in the shop with Miss Kerfoot, chatting, sitting outside the counter on the wooden steps. If another person entered, even a child, that sitting person had to stand up to make room, or even leave the doorway and stand outside until the transaction was complete. The counter was wooden, heavy and well worn, shiny from hands and material that was measured on the copper ruler attached to the inside of the counter.The process of estimating material was important with lace curtains (which we never had in our house) to sewing stuff and lining. Carefully the amount was calibrated and then always a foot or two or even three was added for good measure. The owner worked out careful calculation of the prices on a small notebook and concluded with mental arithmetic. I heard her name was Mary, unmarried, but then she never was a young woman in my eyes. The shop was a child’s wonderland, and adult’s nightmare. There were fits of giggles as only children do behind each other’s backs, pushing and tickling and encouraging. She never seemed to mind; there were too many important issues to be discussed and pondered on in the ‘confession box’ of a shop. Waiting was not optional but obligatory, in the little poke of a shop that was always busy. She never closed, living only next door but one; she popped in and out for accessories or food. On those occasions the shop was empty. One waited, never for long, and had times to observe things that were never seen before, like glitter and darkness. One’s eyes then adjusted to the half-light and corners became visible and touchable. If steps ventured in a little nearer, spiders could be observed on glistening cobwebs, shooting out for a look before returning again to their den of safety, aware that maybe an old pencil might take their home to shreds instantly. Sometimes, something new would

sparkle and catch my eye, bangles of coloured beads or a pearl necklace. I can recall the rings in a small glass case on top of the counter.They were of varied colours, some in clusters with a thin band of gold. A frequent visitor to the doorway was a very large fat ginger cat called Graceful, who basked in the sun and nearly tripped up the procession of human visitors who failed to observe her, though I can’t see how they could miss her size. On Sunday afternoon, the only time the shop was officially closed (Sunday morning was always busy after Mass), I spotted Graceful stretched out and sound asleep in the window, resting on red and gold satin cushions that had newly arrived the week before. A small mouse darted into the waiting corner, totally unaware of Graceful who pounced before it disappeared into the shop beneath. On Mondays people would wait in queues to place an order, to collect a dress, to listen. Lots of 'travellers' came, that was the name given to salesmen in those days. They came dressed in suits and ties, with boxes and a case (she sold cases as well for school or travel, made out of very heavy cardboard with metal curves on every corner and plastic handles). It was exciting when a salesman was present though they did take a lot of time and she was inclined to dispense with the waiting customers first, many of whom would far rather have lingered for an advanced showing of his wares. As I grew older I was entrusted to go shopping on my own to the magical shop. On one such day a brief glimpse of red had me convinced that something was afoot. The box was only partially open through a crack of wonder. The traveller was new. He wore a dark moustache and had a marked look of distinction. His brown single-breasted tweed jacket, unbuttoned, revealing a brilliant Burgundy silk waistcoat over a pair of cream trousers, very well ironed in the centre of each leg. I felt a mere

shadow in his presence and left the shop quickly without my mother’s order being filled. ‘The shop was full mammy,’ I told her shyly. Following a child’s logic, I felt I needed to avoid speaking of those feelings of inadequacy and insecurity a small country-town child feels in the presence of worldly and sophisticated adults. ‘Well, later then.’ She knew me well. When I returned I spotted the new shoes.They were red patent with a high heel and a glitter of silver on the front. I was instantly reminded of Dorothy’s shoes in ‘The Wizard of Oz’.The shoes stood in a white cardboard box and were the highlight of the place on that day, clear and bright and shiny, glistening with newness and delight. I was speechless in their presence, so when Miss Kerfoot asked: ‘What do you require child?’ I could not answer, even though the note was tucked safely, with the money inside, in the palm of my hand. She knew my dilemma and with a soft and gentle smile held her hand out. Something automatically triggered my response and the purchases were made with me still in a daze. I ran all the way home, past the church, over the small concrete foot bridge that allowed access over the Mill Stream to our enclosed street. ‘Mammy!’ came my excited burst of joy, the red shoes that Dorothy wore are in Miss Kerfoot’s shop.’ She laughed aloud, my exuberance infectious. Then, with my sweetest charm, I asked: ‘Mammy, can I have them?’ ‘I’ll talk to Daddy.’ I was an only child and Daddy’s pet. He only let me down once and that was when he died. I was nine at the time.What happened during that chat I did not find out, only I knew Mammy had the money in her hand the next day and I was taken by the hand to Miss Kerfoot’s. I was not particularly perturbed when, on entering, I did not see the red shoes, but

COUNTY NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

Tallow Community Council Dance, in aid of the Emily Byrne Fund, which took place in The Arch Ballroom, Tallow, on Friday, 2nd February last. Posing for the photograph are (l. to r.): Andy Cunningham, Angela O’Hara, Cllr. John Pratt, Ann-Marie Byrne, Mary Mangan, Mire Mangan, Jason Flanagan-Tobin, Carmel Flanagan, Ann Flanagan, Dinny Cunningham and Marian Forbes. [David O’Flynn]

TOURANEENA SYMPATHY News of the passing of Peggy O'Brien (nee Collender), Millstreet, was received in the Parish last week. Peggy was predeceased by her husband Joe. Even though O'Brien's shop has been closed for a good many years, most of us will remember Peggy and Joe for the many decades they ran the shop, pub and the petrol station. O'Brien's in Millstreet was for many years the place to go should you require any item. It was one of those amazing places where there seemed to be a little bit in stock of what ever item you needed, be it batteries, fuses, a bar of Cadbury's Dairy Milk, a pint of milk or a pint of whatever took your fancy. You could be in danger of the weekly shop at O'Brien's becoming a day long event at times. Many of us remember trying to peer over the high pub counter to see what goodies we might be able to afford that day. Over the years, the beauty of O'Brien's shop was that it never changed and neither did Peggy and Joe. Walking in to O'Brien's was like walking back in time and tourists to the area were stunned that such shops still existed in Ireland. Peggy and Joe were part of the fabric of the local community and it felt like they would go on for ever. It was a sad day when O'Brien's closed and it was the end of an era for the local people who were so grateful for the service provided by Peggy and Joe down through the decades. We extend our sincerest sympathy to Peggy's sisters-in-law, Eilish and Nellie Collender, nephews, extended family and friends. Removal was from Kiely's funeral home in Dungavan to St. Mary's Church, Touraneena via Millstreet and past Peggy's beloved homeplace. Requiem mass in St. Mary's Church was followed by internment in the adjoining cemetery. May Peggy rest in peace. TOURANEENA RUNNERS Congratulations to the Touraneena runners who recently ran the 5K in Clogheen and a great achievement by Michelle Guiry who was the third

woman home. If you are interested in walking, running or jogging, why not join our weekly sessions. The group meets every Wednesday night at St. Mary's Church graveyard car park at 7.15 p.m. We are always on the lookout for stewards on Wednesday nights, so if you are available, we'd appreciate the help. All are welcome. SYMPATHY We extend our sincerest sympathy to the Markley Family on the recent passing of Kathleen Markley, Clogheen / Ballymacarbry. Our sympathy to her sister Margaret Cooney, nephews John and James Cooney, nieces Jane Cooney-Mc Govern, Joanne Mullarkey, Patricia Moynihan, Margaret Cooney Jnr, brother in law Jim Cooney, grandnieces, grandnephews, relatives and many friends. Funeral mass was in St. Laurence's Church, Fourmilewater, followed by burial in the adjoining cemetery. May Kathleen rest in peace. SLIABH gCUA / ST. MARY'S VICTORY SOCIAL Sliabh gCua/St.Mary's are holding a victory social in celebration of the junior football team winning the Junior A county final last year. The social will be held in Lawlor's Hotel, Dungarvan, on Saturday night 24th February. Tickets cost €25 each and can be purchased from any committee member. Don't miss out, book early to ensure you have your ticket for a great night out. SLIABH gCUA LOTTO The winning numbers drawn in Hanrahan's Bar last Sunday night were 18, 20, 24. There was no winner of the €3,000 jackpot. The winners of the 5 x €20 were 1) K. Cullinan, 2) Pat Dalton, 3) Mon Condon, 4) Patrick Whelan, 5) Jim Kennedy, Newcastle. The promoter’s prize of €20 was won by Dunne's Bar. Next week’s draw is in Dunne's Bar and there will be two jackpot draws. The first draw will be for a €3,000 jackpot and the second draw will be for a €200 jackpot. DEFIBRILLATORS There is a lot of defibrillator training

being held in communities at the moment and also a lot of debate about who is responsible for providing defibrillators in schools across Ireland. It is estimated for about 5 - 6 million Euros, all schools could be supplied with a defibrillator. The simple fact is that the necessary funds are not being provided by the Department of Education. It has been suggested that should Mr Varadkar's proposed controversial implementation of his new Public Relations department called a 'Strategic Communications Unit' which will cost the taxpayer a massive 5 million Euros per year, be delayed by even 12 months, that the Government could fit every school with a defibrillator. Some of the purposes of this new Strategic Communications Unit (S.C.U) include 1)Keeping businesses and the public informed of the effects of Brexit. 2) The 'Healthy Ireland' initiative designed to promote healthy lifestyles (it will be interesting to see how effective this will be in reducing the number of patients on waiting lists or waiting on trolleys in corridors in hospitals all over Ireland?). Also taking into consideration two new changes in legislation, for the first time in 90 years, the ban on purchasing alcohol has been lifted in Irish pubs on Good Friday. Considering that Ireland has one of the highest alcohol excise taxes in Europe, it would be expected that a lot of extra revenue will be collected this Good Friday. Combine that with the proposed Sugar Tax from April 2018, where 30 cents will be added per litre on drinks with over 8 grams of sugar per 100 millilitres and 20 cents per litre added to drinks that have between 5 and 8 grams of sugar per 100 millilitres. Some people welcome the sugar tax and the Minister for Health has said that the estimated revenue from the new sugar tax will be 40 million Euro per annum. In comparison the estimated 56 million needed to purchase defibrillators for schools is a drop in the ocean.

What price can you put on a child's life?. Mr Varadkar has stated that 'Good Communications is a Virtue', if you would like to communicate to our government that we need defibrillators in every school in Ireland, an online petition has been started by a national newspaper. If you would like to sign the petition, please go to https://www.thesun.ie Go to the search box and type in 'show some heart campaign', then click on the article 'DEFIB PLEA' and scroll down to the end of this article where you can submit your online petition. If you don't have access to the internet, you might ask a relative or friend who does. We have seen with the water charges what the power of the people can do and we need as many people as possible to sign the petition. SENIOR LADIES FOOTBALL In the Lidl ladies national football league, division 2, round 2, Waterford played at home to Clare last Saturday afternoon and they had a terrific win. Waterford hit the ground running and opened the scoring with a great early goal from Lauren McGregor. At halftime the score was Waterford 2-5, Clare 0-3. The ladies never took the foot off the pedal and extended their lead in the second half. Final score was Waterford 3-12, Clare 1-4. Well done to Waterford on a great win. Round 3 will be held on Sunday 11th February where Waterford will have an away game against Laois. SENIOR HURLERS Waterford got off to a decent start in their second round of the division 1A Allianz hurling league against Tipperary in Semple Stadium last Saturday night. Waterford led by a point at half-time 0-10 to 0-9. Early in the second half Waterford's Mark O'Brien got a quality goal and the game was tied at 1-10 to 0-13 but Tipperary aided by a dubious line ball in midfield were awarded a penalty which Jason Forde put in the back of the net. There was some brilliant goalkeeping from Stephen O'Keeffe but the game

went downhill for Waterford and shortly afterwards Austin Gleeson limped off the field. Scoring accuracy for both teams left a lot to be desired with a tally of 13 wides for each side, worryingly a lot of the Waterford wides, particularly in the first half were from good positions. Final score was Tipperary 1-20, Waterford 1-11. Referee was Colm Lyons, Cork. Round 3 will see Waterford take on Kilkenny on the 18th February at 2.00 p.m. at Walsh Park. SENIOR FOOTBALLERS Waterford played Antrim at home last Sunday in division 4 round 2 of the Allianz football league. Waterford went in for the half time break on a scoreline of Antrim 1-6 to Waterford 0-5. Antrim remained the stronger team in the second half and were aided by the Waterford captain receiving a second yellow card so Waterford were down to 14 men for the remainder of the game. Antrim maintained their lead and proved to be easy winners to finish on a final score of Antrim 2-12, Waterford 0-10. The next round will see Waterford take on Laois next Saturday night 10th February at 7.00 p.m. in O'Moore Park. SENIOR CAMOGIE Waterford ladies played Kilkenny in the Littlewoods Ireland camogie league division 1, group 2 last Sunday. Kilkenny proved to be the better team on the day and set out their stall with an early goal. Kilkenny led at half-time on a score line of Kilkenny 1-6; Waterford 0-4. Through a combination of points from play and from frees, Kilkenny continued to move ahead in the second half and the game finished with a final scoreline of Kilkenny 1-14,Waterford 0-8. Next game on Sunday 18th February will see Waterford play at home against Dublin Please note that the times and venues for games are correct at time of going to press, however, sometimes for various reasons, times and venues are being changed, so it is advisable to double check location and times closer to match day.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

DEISE Camera Club members are enjoying the Winter weather and it’s not holding them back from venturing out to take photographs.We have award winning countryside here in the Deise and it’s all free and mostly accessible for all people. Why not get out there today and enjoy your surroundings! NEW MEETING VENUE The Park Hotel is our new meeting venue from February onwards.We are looking forward to exciting times ahead in a busy and vibrant venue. Why not join us for a coffee and see what Deise Camera Club get up to! It’s all fun and talking cameras and photography. If this is your area of interest you are welcome to sit in and join the conversation! NEXT MEETING So our next meeting is on Tuesday, 13th February, in The Park Hotel, Dungarvan, at 7.30 p.m. We would be delighted to

see new members anytime! CLUB COMPETITION The competition theme for February is DIGITAL ART / MANIPULATION. Looking forward to seeing what creative images we get for this one. It’s an open theme so be as creative as you like! CONTACT You can view our website at www.deisecameraclub.com and follow us on FACEBOOK at DEISE CAMERA CLUB DUNGARVAN and you can contact us by emailing deisecameraclub@gmail.com Check us out on Facebook, DEISE CAMERA CLUB DUNGARVAN and see what our members get up to! Thanks to all you who have found us already, we appreciate your time and interest. Come and enjoy the view with us in Deise Camera Club, Dungarvan.

Dungarvan Junior Musical Stage School NEW TERM Following our recent production of Annie at the Sports Centre, Dungarvan, we are delighted to announce that we still have limited places available for our new term that started on Monday. We cater for students aged 4 to 6, 7 to 9, 10 to 12 and 13 to 18 in our classes that take place every Monday and Wednesday in St, Joseph’s School, Dungarvan. If you like to sing, dance, act and perform or you just like to have fun and make new friends then Dungarvan Junior Musical Stage School is the place for you. All our students get to perform in our much talked about end of term productions and our next end of term show will be the sensational musical Legally Blonde and we are sure it will prove to be hugely popular with all our students and audiences alike. You can secure your place today by contacting David or Brian on 087-2360330 and we will happily answer any questions you might have. Let the fun begin.

The Dead Leaves of the Years I wonder if the poppies bloom, In the fields I used to know? Is this Summer as the Summers were, When the scented winds would blow, Up from the seaweed-suffused shore, That August rains had drenched? Does the firelight turn the windows gold, When daylight’s lamp is quenched? Does the wind still strum on strings of rain, When the breeze blows from the West? Does Ballinacourty Lighthouse fling its spears, At the ocean’s heaving breast? Does Helvick frown at evening time, And smile at dawn’s first light? Does the music echo o’er the bay, From Elsted’s pub at night? Does the chilling rain beat frantic fists, Against the latch-locked door? While the flickering, flashing, dancing feet, Knock sparks from the kitchen floor? Is the loving and the laughter, Now smothered by time’s tears? Do my foolish questions only stir, The dead leaves of the years? John Daly

COUNTY NEWS

A scene taken from the Tallow Community Council Dance in aid of the Emily Byrne Fund in The Arch Ballroom, Tallow, on Friday, 2nd February last. [David O’Flynn]

NOTAI NA GAELTACHTA RANGANNA GAEILGE Beidh oíche clárúcháin do ranganna Gaeilge ar siúl i Meánscoil San Nioclás, Dé Céadaoin 7 Feabhra ag 7.30in. Beidh na ranganna ar fáil ar ceithre leibhéil, Glantosaitheoirí, Bunrang, Meánrang agus Ardrang. Sraith deich rang a bheidh ann. Is é an táille ná €50. Tuilleadh eolais: 058 46664 nó cuir r-phost ‘dtí cfdeise@gmail.com A registration night for Irish classes will be held in Meánscoil San Nioclás in An Rinn, Wednesday, 7th February at 7.30 pm. The classes will be available at four levels, absolute beginners, beginners, intermediate and advanced. This will be a ten-week course, which will be held on Wednesday nights from 7 pm to 8:30 pm.The fee is €50. Further information available from 058 46664 or email cfdeise@gmail.com DEIREADH SEACHTAINE DO THEAGHLAIGH I nGAELTACHT NA nDÉISE Beidh dhá deirí seachtaine do theaghlaigh á eagrú ag Coláiste na Rinne i gcómhair le Ghlór na nGael i rith Feabhra 2018, ceann do theaghlaigh le Ghaeilge agus ceann do theaghlaigh gur foghlaimeoirí iad. Beidh deis iontach do theaghlaigh le Gaeilge fanacht i nGaeltacht na nDéise le haghaidh deireadh seachtaine spraoiúil ón Aoine 9 Feabhra go dtí an Domhnach, 11 Feabhra 2018. Beidh deireadh seachtaine trí Ghaeilge do theaghlaigh gur foghlaimeoirí Gaeilge iad ón 16ú go dtí an 18ú Feabhra. Tá na deirí seachtaine á eagrú ag Coláiste na Rinne i bpáirt le Glór na nGael chun deis a thabhairt do theaghlaigh saoire a bheith acu i gceantar Gaeltachta. Beidh lóistín, béilí agus imeachtaí ar fad eagraithe don deireadh seachtaine ar chostas ag tosnú ó €140 an duine fásta & €80 an páiste. Páistí faoi 3 saor in aisce. Is gá áirithint a dhéanamh go luath tríd ríomhphoist a sheoladh go cabrini@glornangael.ie. Tá gach eolas faoin deireadh seachtaine ar fáil ó Cabríní de Barra, Glór na nGael ar 083 445 5914 nó Coláiste na Rinne ar 058 46 128. COISTE LOURDES - AN RINN AGUS AN SEAN PHOBAL Táimid ag glacadh le ainmneacha don turas go dtí Lourdes i mí an Mheitheamh 2018. Is féidir ainm a thabhairt go dtí an tAthair Ó Ceallaigh, nó déan teagmháil le Siobhán De Faoite 058 46191 nó Seosaimhthín Uí Mhuiríosa 058 46262. We are taking names of sick people in our

Parish who would like to travel on the Waterford & Lismore Dioceson Pilgrimage to Lourdes in June, 2018. Please give your name to An tAth. Ó Ceallaigh, or contact Siobhán De Faoite 058 46191 or Seosaimhthín Uí Mhuiríosa 058 46262. 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. SPRAOI – GRÚPA SÚGARTHA NA RINNE Tiocfaidh Spraoi, Grúpa Súgartha do thuismitheoirí agus páistí, le chéile i Halla Pobail na Rinne ar an Aoine beag seo ón 10r.n. go 12i.n. Beidh comhrá deas agus cupán tae/caifé ar fáil. Tuilleadh eolais: tar i dteagmháil le Bríd: 087 7470428. GRÚPA SÚGARTHA I nDÚN GARBHÁN Beidh grúpa súgartha do leanaí agus tuismitheoirí ag teacht le chéile Dé Máirt i nDún Garbhán. Tá an grúpa lonnaithe i Leabharlann Dhún Garbhán gach Máirt ón 10.30 r.n. go 12 i.n. Beidh scéalaíocht, rannta, ealaíon agus cluichí. Tuilleadh eolais: téigh i dteagmháil le Cabríní 083-4455914 nó cuir r-phost ag cabrini@glornangael.ie. An Irish language playgroup will meet in Dungarvan Library from 10.30am to 12pm on Tuesday. Further information: contact Cabríní on 083-4455914 or email cabrini@glornangael.ie SCÉIM TÚS An bhfaigheann tú an Liúntas Cuardaitheora Poist? An bhfuil tú dífhostaithe agus ag iarraidh obair a dhéanamh ar tograí pobail? Bíonn deiseanna ar fáil faoin scéim TÚS do dhaoine dífhostaithe sa Rinn agus sa Sean Phobal. Más rud é go bhfuil tú faoi 25 bliain d’aois, tá buntáiste mór ar fáil. Déan teagmháil le cigire TÚS Cian O hAileasa ag 087 3770256 nó Bainisteoir Comhlacht Forbartha na nDéise, Críostóir Ó Faoláin ag 058 46664 nó cfdeise@gmail.com Are you on job seekers allowance? Are you Unemployed and interested in working in Local Community Projects? Tús provides work opportunities for all unemployed people in the

An Rinn/An Sean Phobal area. If you are less than 25 years of age there will be a major financial incentive for participating. Contact the Tús supervisor Cian O hAileasa at 087 3770256 or the manager of Comhlacht Forbartha na nDeise, Críostóir Ó Faoláin 058 46664. CAIRDE NA GAELTACHTA Buaileann Cairde na Gaeltachta, Cumann Gníomhaíochta Lucht Scoir i nGaeltacht na nDéise, le chéile an céad Máirt den mhí ag 3 i.n. in Ionad Pobail na Rinne. Tá fáilte is fiche roimh cách. SEIRBHÍS DOCHTÚRA Bíonn an Dr Gráinne Ní Fhoghlú ar fáil i gcomhair coinne in Ionad Pobail na Rinne, Dé Máirt agus Déardaoin ach é a chur in áirithe roimh ré. Déan teagmháil le Strandside Medical i gcomhair tuilleadh eolais, 058 41227. Dr Gráinne Ní Fhoghlú is available on appointment in the Health Centre in Ionad Pobail na Rinne on Tuesday and Thursday. Contact Strandside Medical for further information, 058 41227. 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. SCÉIM FOLÁIREAMH DO SHEANÓIRÍ Más maith leat cnaipe práinne agus siogairlín a fháil faoin Scéim Foláireamh do Sheanóirí, tar i dteagmháil linn – 058 46664, cfdeise@gmail.com. If you think you could benefit from a panic button and pendant under the Seniors Alert Scheme, contact us on 058 46664, cfdeise@gmail.com. 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 058-46664.

COUNTY NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

WEST WATERFORD THE LATE JOHN KENNEDY For his weekly CRY listeners Sunday morning’s tea and toast will never be the same again without our weekly spread of “Ballyquinn Light”. For others without their regular meeting spot - for chats, songs and stories at the “Gossip Shop” - life will never be the same. Life has changed too for entire community of his beloved village of Ardmore and dearly loved town Youghal both have lost a great ambassador, a dearly loved son and a legend in his own time. But most of all - John Kennedy will be so dearly missed at home in Ballyquinn, by Sheila his so dearly loved wife and their loving family Alice, John, Aidan and Robert; also his grandchildren, relatives, neighbours, many friends and CRY fans. To all of you we extend our deepest sympathy on the loss of a special man who brought so much joy and music to all our lives and whom we all so dearly loved. John Kennedy was a man of many talents and he used them for the greater good of the community in which he lived and the people who lived in it. He had a particular love of radio, television and music. In the earlier years before opening up his own shop in Youghal he worked in Dungarvan initially selling records, tapes also radios televisions and repairing them. Over the years he built up a wonderful collection of music, which he so generously shared with listeners on his weekly radio programmes which he presented on CRY. He had many personal favourites, among them the wonderful recordings of the voice of John McCormick. Every Sunday morning John would begin his broadcast with wonderful description of his journey from Ballyquinn to Youghal, along the by roads, then along the coast over the bridge and along the back streets of Youghal. Through his great love of nature and his knowledge of the local countryside, no matter how grey the day might be John always found something of interest on his journey to bring a little light in to the

day for his listeners. On the first Sunday of May when John played the “Flowers of the May” you knew summer had arrived. John had a great love of poetry and as only he could, he would regularly recite some of his many personal favourites, many dating back to his school days on his programme. He had a wonderful knowledge of people and local history and over the years along with his CRY colleagues he has worked on and compiled many programmes, documentaries and recordings of local events and people preserving them for future generations. Many of which would otherwise have been lost. On Wednesday morning last the good Lord looked up at the clock on haven’s wall and he whispered gently to John “ Ta an t-am ceart” and John died unexpectedly at his home. Huge crowds came to say goodbye to John as he lay in repose at Egan's Funeral Home, Youghal on Friday evening and again on Saturday for requiem Mass in St. Declan's Church, Ardmore John was then laid to rest in St. Mary's Cemetery, Grange. Until we meet again John we wish you eternal peace, CONGRATULATIONS ARDMORE A brilliant day for our neighbours Ardmore and for sport in Waterford as the captured their first All-Ireland Junior Club Championship in a nail biting final which saw them go to extra time to secure a 3-11 to 0-18 victory over St. Mogue’s Fethard at Croke Park on Sunday. Congratulations to everyone involved in bring back this historic victory to Ardmore. ACT - UPCOMING COLLECTIONS Aid Cancer Treatment are holding their 30th Annual Church Gate Collections in the following 25 Churches - Aglish Ballinameela, Mt. Stuart, Cappoquin, Modeligo, Affane, Lismore, Ballysaggart, Colligan, Kilbrien, Kilgobinet, Ring, Old Parish, Clashmore, Piltown, Knockanore, Kilwatermoy,

Clashmore & Piltown Parish Mass Times No morning Mass on Thursday (Clashmore) or Friday (Piltown) this week. Vigil Mass of Sunday in Piltown at 6.00 p.m. Sunday: Mass in Clashmore at 9.00 a.m.

Parish of Aglish, Ballinameela and Mount Stuart Ash Wednesday Ash Wednesday (February 14th) marks the beginning of lent – masses for Ash Wednesday will be celebrated in the churches as follows: Aglish Church at 7.30 a.m. and 7.15 p.m. Ballinameela 9.30 a.m. Ashes will be distributed in the school during Ash Wednesday morning. Trocaire Boxes will be available in all three churches. Anointing Mass The sacrament of anointing will be available at the 9.30 a.m. mass in Ballinameela on this Friday, February 9th. Annual Mass for the Sick Our annual Mass of the sick takes place this Friday, February 9th at 7.15 p.m. in Aglish Church and all are welcome.

Glendine, Fourmilewater, Nire, Touraneena, Tallow, Mt. Melleray, Ardmore and Grange on next weekend, 10th and 11th February. Your support would be very much appreciated. It's our final year, and we will finish up with our last Collection in Dungarvan in October next. All proceeds go directly to Cork University Hospital. THE ANNUAL FISHERMAN’S MASS It’s that time of year again when we remember the sailors and fishermen we knew when we were young and particularly those who lost their lives at sea. The Mass will be said in the Youghal Parish Church on Saturday morning, February 17th at 10.00 a.m. Members of the Irish Navy, R.N.L.I. and Coast Guards will attend, as well of course as the families of the sailors and fishermen from Youghal, Ardmore, Knockadoon and the Blackwater Valley. Redmond and the Ansbro family will again kindly provide the music and singing for the occasion and no doubt it will be another impressive, nostalgic and emotional ceremony. We hope that Fr. Bernard Cotter, S.M.A. can be with us again from Cork as he is the last living connection with the ‘Nellie Fleming’ schooner. Please be with us on Saturday morning February 17th at 10.00 a.m. in the Youghal Parish Church. CLASHMORE TIDY TOWNS ASSOCIATION TABLE QUIZ Spring is already here which means it is time for our annual Fundraising Table Quiz! This event will take place at The Rising Sun Bar, Clashmore at 8.30 p.m. on Friday, March 2nd and will cost €40 per table of four. There will be some fantastic prizes up for grabs for the lucky winners along with some great raffle prizes to be had on the night so we hope to see you all coming along for what should a great night of fun. See you all there! In other news, with Spring now upon us, we are at a busy time with planning for the year ahead and one of our first events of the year will of course be our annual Spring CleanUp event which will soon be upon us and we will be hoping to see the same fantastic numbers of volunteers coming out again this year to help in this effort. Watch this space over the next few weeks for the exact date of this event. FIT UP THEATRE FESTIVAL The term 'Fit-ups' was used to describe, travelling road shows and theatrical companies, which once toured Ireland. In towns and villages around the country large tents and marquees were erected and scenery which 'fitted' together was set up inside to create world where audiences could lose themselves in dream world of variety shows and drama. Three years ago the Blood in the Alley Theatre Company in association with Cork County Council and the Arts Council revived “Fitups” concept with the “Fit Up Theatre Festival” – once again bringing the very best of Theatre and drama to local venues in many towns and villages. The 2018 Blackwater Valley Fit Up Festival runs this year from

January 23rd – 18th February, at venues in Buttervant, Banteer, Kiskeam, Watergrasshill, Youghal and Fermoy. If you have not had a chance to see any of this years brilliant acts so far there are still two to come. This week’s featured drama is the highly rated “The Humours of Bandon” written and performed by Margaret McAuliffe (winner of “Little Gem Award at the 2016 Dublin Fringe Festival). On this Saturday night, February 11th, it is playing at the magnificent Mall Arts Centre in Youghal at 8.00 p.m. Tickets are just €15. The final week of the festival features the work of Samuel Beckett ‘End of the Day’ on Saturday, February 17th at 8.00 p.m. at the unusual venue of St. Mary’s Collegiate Church,Youghal, on (wear warm clothes) also just €15. The festival’s artistic director Geoff Gould Clashmore tells us this will be a very special treat for all drama lovers – and not to be missed. MUSICAL BINGO - DATE FOR YOUR DIARY Villerstown Parents Association will host a Fundraising Musical Bingo Table Quiz on Friday, March 2nd (please note date) at An Cruiscin Lan, Villierstown. Registration at 8.30 p.m. and the quiz begins at 9.00 p.m. sharp. We will also have a raffle on the night. The Annual Villierstown National School Quiz dates are 17th April and 24th April. More details will follow in the coming weeks. CLASHMORE AND KINSALEBEG COMMUNITY COUNCIL Healthy Day Many thanks to everyone who turned up for the health checks on Saturday. Over 50 people had their blood pressure and blood sugars checked. Particular thanks to Triona Hennessy, Sheila Deasy and Maria Anthony for the blood sugar tests; Nicola Lucey of Youghal Community Health Project for her diet advice; and of course the team from Irish Heart Foundation of Anne, Joan and Philip. Special mention also to the Mari Mina Pharmacy and Dr. Slevin for their helping out with medical supplies. Coffee Morning There was a good turnout for the Heritage Centre Coffee Morning and some good suggestions were made for future mornings. (Thank you to Niamh Tobin for helping out). Ideas: 1.The Coffee Morning will continue every Wednesday from 10.00 a.m. - 12.00 noon and all are welcome to drop in. It will include a knit and natter session, a learn to play 45s session, and a reading of the West Waterford notes for the visually impaired. A computer expert will be present to answer any computer problems. We also hope to invite interesting speakers along. 2. We have set up a Camera Club, which will meet on the last Monday of each month. So the first meeting will be on 26th February. More details nearer the time. 3. A Village Dance for beginners and those more experienced will be held on Thursday, 15th February.

Again we will confirm venue. 4.There was also some interest in an art class and we are looking for a tutor. Thanks again to everybody who turned up and we look forward to welcoming more people every week. If people need a lift to the Heritage Centre, just call 02492779. Study Group There will be a Study Group for leaving year students in the Heritage Centre from 2.00 p.m. 4.00 p.m. on Wednesdays. This will be supervised and there is no charge. AGLISH OPERATION TRANSFORMATION Aglish Operation Transformation continues on Tuesday night in Aglish Community Hall. Weigh in at 6.30 p.m., which will be private. Walk will commence at 7.00 p.m. Only €2 per night with all proceeds to Children’s Hospital Crumlin. CLASHMORE RAMBLERS Our weekly Clashmore Ramblers Alpha Lotto draw took place on Sunday night last, February 4th. Our letters drawn were K, B, H and Q. We had no winner of our Jackpot so next week it will be €3,800. The following were our lucky weekly prize winners of €20 each: Colette Foley, Peter Deady and Cathy Marks. Well done to all our winners and thanks for all your support. CLASHMORE/KINSALEBEG GAA LOTTO Our Clashmore/Kinsalebeg GAA club weekly Lotto draw took place last Monday night, February 5th, and the following were the numbers out of the drum 8, 12, 20 and 23. We had no Jackpot winner. Our next draw takes place on Monday night at the Rising Sun and our Jackpot will be €2,500. Our weekly lucky draw ticket winners of €20 each were: Maureen Hehir, Shane Dalton, Wa, Charlie Foley and Declan Hickey. Thanks to everyone for supporting our draw CLASHMORE 45 DRIVE Joint winners of our Clashmore 45 Drive on Monday night (February 5th) at the Decies Bar were Paddy Kelleher and Edmond Og Ledingham on nine games. In second place on eight games were Jim McGrath and Jack Douris. In joint third were Tom Osborne and John Motherway, Mary Foley and Terri McGrath. Best of the last five this week were Anne Ledingham and Noel Nugent. Our lucky last game winners were Bridget and Podge Cunningham, Tony Keane and Gabriel Hynes, Margaret Leahy and Una Kenneally. Well done to all our winners and thanks to everyone for your support. MONTH’S MIND MASS The Month’s Mind Mass for the late David Coyne will be celebrated in St. Cronin’s Church, Clashmore on Friday, 16th February at 7.30 p.m. HAPPY BIRTHDAY Birthday greetings to Miss Sinead White, Mount Odell, Dungarvan whose birthday was on Thursday, 1st February last from Miss Caitriona Barron, Dromore, Aglish, Cappoquin.

Seventh Winning Streak Appearance ESTABLISHED in 1960 – McCarthy’s Newsagents (Pad McCarthy’s) is a well known and popular family owned and run, Shop located on the Dungarvan end of Youghal Town. McCarthy’s has always been a popular stop off point for town and country clientele, for papers, groceries, a delicious icecream and of course your Lotto ticket or scratch cards. Since being appointed a Lotto agent in 1987 – McCarthy’s boasts selling no less then seven winning streak appearance tickets the most recent was drawn last Saturday night David O’Brien is McCarthy’s newsagents 7th customer to appear on Winning Streak and he will be among the five contestants to appear in this weekend’s game show. Best wishes to David – We hope you get to spin the wheel and bring home to top prize from all at McCarthy’s.

Waterford students battle it out in AIB Build A Bank Challenge Regional Finals Students from St. Augustine's College in Dungarvan participated in the Regional Final ON Monday, 5th February, 2018, 260 students from schools across Ireland took part in the Munster Regional Final of the AIB Build A Bank Challenge in the Silver Springs Hotel, Cork. The Munster Regional Final is one of three regional events taking place in Dublin, Cork and Athlone where schools from across the country will compete to earn one of the 48 coveted places in the AIB Build A Bank Challenge National Final. The final 48 teams will be announced on Monday 12th February 2018 via www.AIB.ie and the AIB Social Media Channels. Now in its 16th year, the AIB Build A Bank Challenge is one of the longest running schools programmes for Transition Year students in Ireland with over 800 students participating in 132 schools this year. The AIB Build A Bank Challenge gives students the opportunity to establish and run a bank throughout the academic year, encouraging participants to explore innovation through marketing, executing engaging promotions and business management while running an operational bank in the school and within their wider community. The National Final will be held in the RDS on March 21st, 2018, as part of the AIB Future Sparks Festival. The Build A Bank Final will culminate with the 48 finalist teams being invited to present at the AIB Build A Bank Challenge Final in the RDS, with up to €50K worth of prizes up for grabs on the day. The AIB Future Sparks Festival takes place in the RDS on Thursday, March 22nd, 2018, bringing together leaders in business and young entrepreneurs to inspire students. The Festival is open to 5,000 Transition Year, 5th Year and 6th Year students and will consist of hands-on workshops, inspirational talks and panel discussions across the future of Sport, Music, Food, Entertainment, Entrepreneurship and Technology. For full details, please visit aib.ie/build-a-bank

COUNTY NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

Portrait of an artist … By Donal Buckley

Felix Faulkner SOMETIMES, when meeting a person for the first time, you immediately know you are going to like them. I found that particularly true, in the case of Felix Faulkner.We had arranged to meet for coffee and a sticky bun at the cafe in Barrons Bakery, Cappoquin. Being the rank amateur that I am, I arrived early, while Felix arrived fashionably late. The first impression I got was of a lady with poise and confidence attached to a friendly cheerfulness. Having ordered the coffee's, we sat and began our chat. Felix (or Felicity) Faulkner was born in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). She was educated and began her training as a goldsmith there. She continued her studies in Germany and moved to London and eventually Cornwall in England, where she set up her jewellery workshop. Sidetracked by her interest in ceramics, she ran her own pottery there for 6 years, until an unfortunate fire at her premises put paid to the business. For the next few years, Felix dedicated her time and talent working with young offenders. Eventually she and her husband moved to Ireland and set up a bespoke jewellery business in the picturesque environs of Knockanore. She also paints in oils and acrylics.The conversation was so engrossing that I almost forgot why I was there, and the fact that we hadn't been served our coffee yet. But, a quick word to the girl on the counter and our two Americano's arrived. So the world achieved its balance once again. While we sipped, I asked some questions and Felix answered with riveting stories and fascinating facts. We only got side tracked a few hundred times. Do you have a favourite artist? Of all the old masters, I admire Johannes Vermeer(1632-1675) the most. He was a very disciplined artist, painting similar themes and scenes in a very slow and careful manner.Yet, he would use the most expensive pigments and materials. He also made light dance across the canvas. In the modern era, I am fascinated by the work of David Hockney(b.1937). He has done it all; painting, screen printing, photography and even stage design. He is the most influential British artist of the mid 20th century pop art movement. At the moment I am completely enamoured with the paintings of Lindsey Kustusch. Her work is realistic with

just enough of the abstract to give it soul. Also the fabulous use of colour in the ALMOST abstract paintings of Peter Wileman. Have you a favourite book or author? The book I re-read the most is called "Riddley Walker" by Russell Hoban. it is set in Kent, England, two and a half thousand years in the future after the world has been destroyed by an apocalyptic event. Humanity must start all over again, even with the spoken language and writing. Its a needy, classless and disorganised society. How would WE cope? A difficult book to read but worth the effort. What is your favourite place? Zimbabwe. Through all its trials and tribulations, political turmoil and financial problems, Zimbabwe is still a beautiful country with mostly wonderful people. Above all it is my home, where I was born and grew up. Africa maintains a special hold on most people who have spent time there. What kind of music do you like? I have a very varied taste in music, from Irish Trad to classical Indian.There is a fantastic fiddle player in Youghal called Mary Daly. Over the years we have become friends and she even introduced me to fiddle playing. Sam Cooke was a singer, songwriter, producer, publisher and record label owner. He had hits with songs like "You Send Me", "Twistin' The Night Away", "Another Saturday Night" and "Summertime". Good old Soul music always gets me dancing.He inspired and contributed to the success of such notable careers as Aretha Franklin, Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder. He achieved all this before he tragically died at the age of 33. Finally, anyone who has lived in the 60's and 70's will know that The Rolling Stones were a major part of life's soundtrack. They still are. Just one more, the Canadian blues singer and poet Ray Bonneville. Do you have a favourite colour? The colour green is so versatile (and the most difficult to use in paintings). It can be a muted background in varying degrees of Olive, Sage or even Jade. Its contrasts with other colours can create drama. Johnny Cash was almost right. There are, at least, forty shades of Green. Felix Faulkner's jewellery has a quality and consistency of form which could only have been influenced by her training and education at Pforzheim University in Germany. At the same time there is a subtlety that could only have come from the eclectic life experiences of Felix herself. She is a member of The Cornwall Crafts Association,The Devon Guild of Craftsmen

Whiting Bay Pebbles

Silver Swan

Felix Faulkner

Old Tractor and The Crafts Council Of Ireland. She works in gold, silver and bronze, adding unusual and contrasting elements to her pieces. Felix creates organic shapes from the metals and pays tribute to the flora and fauna of Ireland in the designs. As a painter, Felix Faulkner works mainly in oils and sometimes acrylics. Her landscapes are soft and flowing. The addition of old farm machinery, rusting outbuildings and even jet trails in the skies are not jarring but elegantly incorporated into the scenes. Both her jewellery and paintings are unique, individual pieces. She has done bespoke commissions as well as having her work exhibited commercially in shops and galleries across Ireland and the UK. The Beach House Gallery, The Market House, Ardmore Pottery and Gallery 126 in Youghal are some of the local establishments that carry Felix Faulkner's work. Her jewellery pieces and paintings can also be seen in Cork city, Ross Fine Arts in Donegal, at The Waterfront Gallery in Wales and in Devon, England. She has won awards at the National Crafts Competition and at Showcase Ireland. Felix Faulkner is currently a member of an art group called River Barn Artists Group which meets at the former studio of Wishy Martin in Tourin. The Group are holding an Exhibition at the 20TEN Gallery in Waterford city in May of this year. That's what art is all about. Finding like minded individuals with their own unique talents and learning from each other. Felix Faulkner is a unique artist with a strong sense of community. Her own strengths are her open mindedness and sense of humour. We could all learn a little from Felix Faulkner. I certainly did.

Climbers

The Golden Years - “The Songs We Love To Sing” ON Saturday 24th February Gumbleton Productions presents their exciting new show The Golden Years ~ The Songs we Love to Sing. The show will take place in Dungarvan Town Theatre at 8.00pm. Ireland's most popular tenor, Tallow native Frank Ryan, will be joined by thrilling young soprano Sarah O'Mahony and accompanied by the very talented pianist Bethan Lee in a melody filled presentation that will take you back to a more gracious time. Everyone loves to sing, whether it is Dad singing his favourite tune away in the shower while we queue outside, or little Katie soothing her dolls to sleep in the evening, singing comes naturally to us in Ireland. We like to listen... but we like to take part too! "The Golden Years" is about singing! We have searched back over the decades to find the songs that have that special "Singalong" ingredient. Who doesn't know "The Candy Store on the Corner"? and for good measure we have included "The Whistling Gypsy", Josef Locke's "Hear my Song, Violetta" and Danny Doyle's "Whiskey on a Sunday" among a host of other Golden hits.

Frank Ryan Please don't worry if you have forgotten the words as they will be up there on the screen so you can relax and enjoy the fun. Brighten up your Saturday evening by coming along to enjoy a nostalgic evening of the world's best loved melodies .... and bring your voices with you! Tickets are €15 and on sale through The Wine Buff Dungarvan or please contact 086 1577 610.

St. Gobnait’s Festival GAME AND COUNTRY FAIR Sunday, 11th February Tommy Hallinan’s Pub, Kilgobinet At 10.00 a.m. the start of the Bring & Buy Poultry and Game Birds Sale. The poultry sale will exhibit various interesting species of chickens, peacocks, peasants and game fowl. From lunch there will be a Family Dog Show, with competitions as diverse as best dressed Farm Dog, and Farm Dog with most Glamourous Handler.With small entry fees for each class. (Details of the various classes are on Kilgobinet Festival and Tommy Hallinan's Pub facebook pages). Exhibitions of Metalwork and Beekeeping in the afternoon, with honey tastings. Archery, miniature cattle, food, ice-cream, balloons, face painting and stalls for a fun family day out. There will be a best dressed lady and gent, and best Wellington Boot Competition. With a visit from Mayfield birds of Prey for photos with their Owls and Hawks. St. Gobnait gave her name to the Parish of Kilgobinet, There are three churches within the graveyard of Kilgobinet Church, St. Gobnait (Abigal) feast day is the 11th February. St. Gobnait left West Waterford to settle at the location of the nine white deer in Ballyvourney Co. Cork. St. Gobnait is the patron saint of bee keeping and metalworking. It is said that St. Gobnait kept an army of Honey Bees whom she would raise to attack opposing forces if she was threatened. She is one of the few female Saints in Ireland. Her later homestead and church in Ballyvourney kept its own blacksmith works. A Bee Keeping talk will be given by Pat Deasy, of the National award winning Déise Honey, based in Ardsallagh. Pat is a highly skilled bee keeper, and will speak about efforts to promote the native Irish Black Honey Bee, and disease resistance for the Honey Bees in Ireland and Europe. Local expert metal workers will give a talk and demonstration of their skills after lunch, with Ciaran and Eoin Hickey who are highly regarded for their skilled metal work. A visit by a champion / farrier is anticipated. Contact Tommy Hallinan's Pub for further information.

Fidelma Meaney directs Curtain Call's production of Some Girl(s).

COUNTY NEWS

Meg Marriott plays Tyler in Curtain Call's production of Some Girl(s).

Some Girl(s)

Emma Walsh plays Bobbi in Curtain Call's production of Some Girl(s).

Catherine Whelan plays Sam in Curtain Call's production of Some Girl(s).

this weekend to find out more… ABOUT THE CAST To date, CCPD has had over 40 people of all different levels of experience involved in our productions. For this, our 2018 Festival production, which will compete on the ADCI AllIreland Festival Circuit in the hopes of securing a much-coveted place in the All-Ireland Finals in April, director Fidelma Meaney is working with five of our most experienced members. Guy is played by Kris Cowming, who you will all know from his performances as RP McMurphy in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, Benjamin Braddock in The Graduate, Dan in Closer, and who could forget the pink-tutuwearing Andrew in our recent production of Cheshire Cats! Sam is played by Catherine Whelan, who also played Dr. Spivey in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, Mrs. Braddock in The Graduate, and most recently, the loudspeaker-touting, hi-visvestwearing cockney Race Marshall in Cheshire Cats. Tyler is played by Meg Marriott, who joined Curtain Call last year and played the challenging role of Alice in our production of Closer. Meg was also

Assistant Director on our recent production of Cheshire Cats. Lindsay is played by Vanessa Hyde, who you will remember for her touching portrayal of M’Lynn in Steel Magnolias, and for her performance as Blanche Dubois in our production of A Streetcar Named Desire. Bobbi is played by Emma Walsh, who has performed in all CCPD productions to date. She played Nurse Ratched in One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, Clairee Belcher in Steel Magnolias, Mrs. Robinson in The Graduate, Stella in A Streetcar Named Desire, Anna in Closer, and the bombastic Hilary in Cheshire Cats. Some Girl(s) is directed by Fidelma Meaney. Fidelma previously directed One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, The Graduate, Closer, and Cheshire Cats. This is Fidelma’s third time directing Curtain Call’s festival production. BOOK YOUR TICKETS So come see Some Girls(s) in Dungarvan Town Hall Theatre from Thursday, 8th – Saturday, 10th February (3 nights only!) Tickets (€15) are now on sale in The Wine Buff (058-24523) and Kelly’s Pharmacy, Abbeyside (058-44433).

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

Vanessa Hyde plays Lindsay in Curtain Call's production of Some Girl(s).

Kris Cowming plays Guy in Curtain Call's production of Some Girl(s).

YOU’RE an up-and-coming writer, with a piece recently commissioned by Esquire.You’re about to get married. Life couldn’t be better. So, of course, the natural thing to do would be to meet some of your exes before you get married to talk about the reasons your relationship didn’t work out! As one of the above-mentioned exes, if you got a call from your ex out of the blue years after your relationship ended, asking you to meet up, what do you think you’d do? You’ve moved on… right? Curtain Call Productions

Dungarvan’s spring production, Neil LaBute’s Some Girl(s) – which takes to the Dungarvan Town Hall Theatre stage this Thursday, Friday & Saturday night – follows Guy as he meets four of his ex-girlfriends in Seattle, Chicago, Boston and LA just before he gets married. What follows is by turns humourous, serious, romantic, truthful, flirty… and yes, there’s a bit of anger in there too! Some of the “reunions” don’t exactly go as Guy hoped… with sometimes hilarious consequences. Come down to Dungarvan Town Hall Theatre

Conna Dramatic Society

Ballyduff Drama presents ‘Albertine in Five Times”

THE winter months have been busy for Conna Drama Society, but all the late nights have paid off as their upcoming production of the Ray Cooney comedy “Caught in the net” is almost ready to go. With a cast of many familiar faces and a few faces new to Conna Drama, this play is shaping up to be a side splitting evening for all who see it. Dates to remember are opening night February 16th, 17th 23rd, 24th, 25th, and the final local show before the group take to the road to compete in the Festival Circuit is Wednesday, 28th February. Plenty of opportunities to see this fantastic production under the guidance of director Anne Barry, don’t miss it. 8.15 p.m. nightly in Conna Hall tickets available at the door.

FOLLOWING on from the resounding success of last December’s “The Full Monty” Ballyduff Drama Group take to the boards once again. For the first time on an Irish stage, the group bring you Michael Tremblay’s “Albertine in Five Times” with performance dates on February 18th, 20th, 22nd, 23rd and 24th, 2018. The play is an exploration of the life of a woman over 5 decades, from 30 to 70. Albertine, at 70, is about to spend her first lonely night in a nursing home. She begins to reflect on her life and on the events that led her to this point; those that defined and embittered her; the disappointments; the few good memories (which usually involve her sister Madeleine). The playwright has not shyed away from depicting a hard, tough story and in doing so creates an individual of warmth and complexity. Tremblay has written the play so that five generations of the same woman interact. He has created an incredibly captivating piece illus-

trating the life of a woman from the brink of youth to the edge of old age. The play is brought to you by a production team and cast which will be very familiar to audiences of St. Michael’s Hall. The much recognised and much applauded directive skills of Ger Canning will once again be on display. Combine that with the talents of our actresses and this is set to be a powerful and enthralling tour de force. Síle Heneghen goes from playing a broody 30-something in The Full Monty to playing Albertine at age 70 (this woman’s talents knows no bounds!). Audiences will also be accustomed to the prowess and artistry of Mary Colbert (Albertine at 60), Mary Curley (Albertine at 50), Valerie O’Leary (Albertine at 40) and for the first time with Ballyduff Drama Group Gráinne Barry (Albertine at 30) and Gabriella Mastromatteo (Madeleine). I am sure this ensemble will achieve the task of rendering Albertine in distinct shades that bring her

together into one coherent character. Join us this February and travel with our six actresses on this frequently harrowing yet ultimately uplifting journey as they depict the life of Albertine with a keen interconnectedness as she passes

through 70 years of living. It’s a play about how in every person’s life there are consequences to our actions but it is also a portrayal of the ways in which memory simultaneously enlightens and confuses our views of the past, present and

Mary Curley and Sheila Henehan in rehearsal.

future. Doors open at 8.15 p.m. Tickets will be available nightly at the door or if you wish to book seats you can do so at 05860456. See www.ballyduffdrama.com for more details of all upcoming events.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

Nollaig Hennessy in Merry’s for Dungarvan Singers Club ONE of the many great evenings of entertainment provided by the Dungarvan Singers club was the one featuring the vocal trio “A Taste of Honey”. It was a really splendid occasion and everybody who attended was simply entranced by the lovely singing. One of those great vocalists and guitarists was the amazing Nollaig Hennessy who quite simply has a voice that is enchanting. She has a wonderful presence and puts her whole heart and soul into her performance. She is a model of what a singer should be. She has perfect diction, magnificent technical ability, radiant tone and, above all, the compassion and deep emotional commitment to give full and meaningful expression to the songs she sings. There, in a nutshell, is all you need to be a great singer; and she has all of them in spades. So, do yourself a favour and come along and check her out when she does a solo guest appearance with us in the DSC on Monday, February 12th at 9 pm, upstairs in Merry’s Bar and Restaurant, Lr. Main St., Dungarvan. And don’t forget to bring your voices with you. This is a free-forall sing-around session, and all performers are welcomed with open arms. If you have a song, a poem, a recitation, or a monologue, we are all ears! If you don’t perform (…yet!), then just come along to listen to the rest of us, and also, of course, our wonderful guest, Nollaig. Nollaig Hennessy (Vocals, guitar) is from Cappoquin and amazingly, for such a great guitarist, only started taking lessons two years ago. But, of course she had a really great teacher, the supremely talented Bernie Coffey, who has taught so many people in this area, and is such a memorable and powerful performer in her own right. The power, control and emotion she evinces in her singing is simply astonishing. In the vocal arena it is different. Nollaig has been singing since she was 12. She is now 28 so that means that she has 16 years experience, during which time she has participated in all the different ranges and grades of Scór, been engaged to sing for weddings and many funerals, has had lots of experience singing in sessions and concerts and completely won everyone’s heart with the purity and emotional range of her singing. She really just has a gorgeous voice, mellifluous and affecting with rapturous tone.You just have to hear her sing to be won over. You are in for a treat. Her favourite music is American Country, her idols and models being of the calibre of Shania Twain and the Dixie Chicks, whose wonderful “Travelling Soldier” is one of Nollaig’s party pieces. Her other tour-de-force is Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah”! She also sings “Rock me Mama like a Wagon wheel”, marvellously! Nollaig learned her singing in the true traditional manner from her mother, Mary Hennessy and from her grandparents Nancy Condon, (still living) and Tom Condon (RIP), from Tourneena, the heart of the Déise as I call it. Tom sang songs in the Irish language also, as there was a BreacGaeltacht in Sliabh gCua until comparatively recently, as evinced by Denis Coffey and the whole magnificent Coffey Dynasty of singers, in Irish and English. Her father Jim Hennessy while not a singer himself (at least in public!) is a huge music-lover and helped to instil this enthusiasm into Nollaig. Her own favourite quote is “Where words fail, music speaks”.When I asked Nollaig for her own take on this passion, she answered simply “love music, love singing, love playing”.You could not sum up the gospel of The Singers Club any better than that! All the rest of her family share this ardent dedication to music; and her first cousin, Sharon, is a highly accomplished and extremely entertaining storyteller, who enchanted us all royally recently at our weekly “Friday Fireside” session out at The Marine Bar. Nollaig’s sister Áine also sang beautifully for us on that memorable occasion. What a family! Nollaig herself has just been recording a CD with the great actor / singer / producer John Stack to help poor little Richard Fitzgerald, only 12 years old, who has been diagnosed with a brain tumour, to help raise funds. So come along and support Nollaig at Merry’s. She is very talented and is warm and friendly. You will love her. Her repertoire is varied and comprehensive: “Wild Atlantic Way” by Aoife Scott who is Frances Black’s daughter! “Cowboy Yodel song” by Cliona Hogan, “I’m gonna love you” by Megan Trainer; the list is endless…… So be sure and don’t forget – Nollaig Hennessy (Vocal/Guitar) on Monday, 12th February at 9.00 p.m. in Merry’s Bar and Restaurant, Lower Main Street, Dungarvan.

COUNTY NEWS

Movie Reviews In association with SGC Dungarvan

Den of Thieves By Bill Tubbritt GERARD Butler, 50 Cent, Pablo Schreiber and O'Shea Jackson Jr. star in this new all action heist movie which many are comparing heavily with the classic 1995 movie Heat starring Robert De Niro and Al Pacino. Den of Thieves sees Butler returning to work with director and producer Christian Gudegast who he also worked with in London Has Fallen back in 2016. These two combine well again as they both seem really suited to these types of all-out action bullet feasts that are still a lot of movie fans guilty pleasures in this High-Tec digital age. Den of Thieves follows an elite unit of the LA County Sheriff's Dept. which is lead up by bad boy Detective Nick "Big Nick" O'Brien (Gerard Butler). Ray Merrimen (Pablo Schreiber) is the recently paroled leader of the State's most successful bank

robbery crew who are known as "The Outlaws." The movie quickly puts both groups on an explosive collision course when The Outlaws plan to pull off an seemingly impossible heist by attempting to rob the city's Federal Reserve Bank. This task is not made any easier as Detective Nick and his crew will stop at nothing to prevent this from happening. As previously mentioned, the movie has received a little criticism for its similarity to Heat but that should not put people off because even if that fact is true, it still doesn’t stop Den of Thieves from being a very entertaining movie. Gerard Butler had to put on a lot of weight for this role and really did a fine job in his role.The movie runs for 140 minutes which may sound long but the run time really doesn’t make it feel like an overly long movie but definitely there were some unnecessary scenes that were not entirely relevant to the story. Rating 3.5/5.

Shakespeare’s Riotous yet Profound Live from RSC, Stratford “Twelfth Night” Thursday, February 14th, at 7.15 p.m. By Jim Ryan “THIS most exquisite of all Shakespeare’s comedies … Take your copy of ‘Twelfth Night’ down from your shelf, and submit yourself once again to the magic and music of it.” (John Dover Wilson). If you love theatre, don’t miss this screening of one of the greatest, most joyous plays ever written. What better way to battle through the cold and drear of winter than seeing a great comedy – and a good production of “Twelfth Night” is a heartwarming, often hilarious, experience. A live screening from Shakespeare’s birthplace is always something to look forward to with eagerness, and “Twelfth Night” on Feb 14th brings to us one of his most performed and popular dramas. In fact, a fairly recent survey of all performances of Shakespeare’s plays at The Shakespeare Memorial Theatre, later the Royal Shakespeare Company, at Stratford-Upon Avon, from 1879 to 2004, this play is the second most performed of all the canon – there are no prizes for guessing the most performed; “Hamlet”. This delightful comedy is among the greatest and most popular comedies ever penned. I have loved it ever since I studied it as a student many moons ago. In the characters of Viola and Olivia we have two of the dramatist’s largest and most wonderful female roles. The earliest recorded performance of this delightful comedy took place in one of the London colleges of law, the Middle Temple, in February, 1602 – a number of points in the play which suggest an audience of law students.There are a number of literary and historical clues in the text which, scholars believe, indicate that it was first performed in late 1599 or 1600.While there is nothing in the play to connect it to the twelfth night, (i.e. January 6th) the play, full of merriment, high jinks and drinking scenes,

would be a fitting entertainment for an evening which brought the Christmas festivities to a close. The main plot is a loose adaptation of a tale from a novel published in 1581 and this novel was itself based on an Italian comedy which was performed in Cambridge University in 1537. (Perhaps originality is an overprized entity; it’s salutary to reflect that of the Bard’s thirty-seven plays only one, “Love’s Labour’s Lost”, is considered to have an original plot). As the curtain rises, the lovesick Orsino, Duke of Illyria, is embarking on one of the most famous speeches in drama:- “If music be the food of love, play on. // Give me excess of it that, surfeiting, // The appetite may sicken and so die.” He is using a deputy to court the rich Countess Olivia, who, we soon discover, is unable to love him in return. His emissary is a newly-employed favourite pageboy named Cesario – what he doesn’t know is that Cesario is in reality a shipwrecked gentlewoman of noble birth whose true name is Viola – and it being a comedy by Shakespeare, confusion is worse confounded when it emerges that Cesario/Viola is in love with Orsino. As Mr. Laurel and Mr. Hardy might say:- ”What a fine mess we’ve gotten ourselves into”! The emissary (in disguise) is herself in love with the man for whom she is pleading. To make matters more complicated, when Cesario/Viola goes a-wooing Olivia (on Orsino’s behalf, you remember), the latter falls in love with him/her. So, in case you’re as hopelessly lost as I am at this point:- Orsino loves Olivia (who doesn’t love him) who loves Cesario/Viola who, in turn, loves Orsino – nothing could be more simple! There is also Viola’s identical twin brother, Sebastian, presumed drowned, who later comes on the scene – of course, the identical twin is one of the great engines of comedy in the theatre.The mayhem that arises from mistaken identity

is a rich source of farce in Shakespeare and many another playwright – with “Twelfth Night”, as events take their course you must be ever on the alert if you are “to keep up with the plot”. Then there’s puritanical, self-righteous, melancholy Malvolia, Olivia’s steward, who is cruelly gulled into believing that she is in love with him. There’s also Sir Andrew Aguecheek, a wealthy, foolish knight, (in fact an utter idiot) who provides the funds for Olivia’s riotous, drunken uncle, Sir Toby Belch. As in a number of Shakespeare’s plays, there’s also a clown, Feste who is Olivia’s court jester – and it has to be said the clown/fool is often the wisest and shrewdest character in the play. Olivia’s sharp-witted serving woman, Maria, also plays a delightful role in the comic scenes. “Twelfth Night” Live from the RSC – what is there to beat that? Just penning the above whets my appetite for this magical play.

COUNTY NEWS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

Helvick Lifeboat Fundraising Branch AGM THERE was an excellent turnout for the AGM of the Helvick Lifeboat Fundraising Branch, which took place in Dungarvan Harbour Sailing Club (DHSC) on Friday, January 26th. Hon Chairman Kevin Ó Morchoe warmly welcomed all those present, thanked the Sailing Club for the use of the premises and expressed his deep appreciation for the help and support given to the station during the past year. Hon Sec Anne McCarthy read the minutes of the 2017 AGM and there were no matters arising. Hon Treasurer Dolores Walsh presented her Treasurer’s Report for the year ending December 2017. She thanked all the organisations, individuals, the media and businesses that donated and held fundraising events in aid of the RNLI Helvick Lifeboat Station during the past year and was happy with the amount raised. In his Chairman’s Report, Kevin praised Dolores for her outstanding and diligent work and said “We have a fantastic committee who work very well together and offer each other a huge level of support; we have a deep interest in what we do and we get on with it. I’d like to thank our Hon Secretary Anne McCarthy, and Joan Clancy for her great work as Hon Press Sec.” He reviewed some of the fundraising events held throughout the year, recalling in particular the poem “Rescue 116” which was read by Adrian O’Hara at the start of the annual swim from Ballinacourty Pier to

Pictured following the AGM of the Fundraising Branch of the Helvick Lifeboat held in Dungarvan Harbour Sailing Club are the new committee, back row: Terence Morrissey, Seamus Kiersey, Kevin Harty, John Quealy, Dermot Hickey, Elaine O’Grady, Kevin Ó Morchoe, Oliver Clancy, Liam Harty, Trish Brabazon, Paud Ó Cuirrin, Nicky Hannigan. Seated are Dolores Walsh, Joan Clancy, Deirdre Doocey, Anne McCarthy, Connie Kiersey, RoseAnn Foley. Helvick Pier. He expressed condolences to the families of the late Eamon Mansfield, Alice Burke, the crew of Rescue 116 and to Edwin Fay on behalf of his late mother. “Our 24th Annual Helvick Swim & BBQ is set for Sunday July 22nd this year and is now officially listed in Swim Ireland and I would like to thank the kayakers who form an important component to the success of the swim.” He thanked RNLI Chaplain Fr. Conor Kelly for his support and in particular for making the

annual Mass at the lifeboat station so special, especially for those who have lost loved ones at sea. The officers and committee were all re-elected unopposed. Criostoir Ó Faolain had sent word to say he was stepping down from the committee and Elaine O’Grady, Trish Brabazon and Seamus Kiersey were newly elected. The officers and committee for 2018 are as follows: Chairman: Kevin Ó Morchoe. Treasurer: Dolores Walsh. Secretary: Anne McCarthy. Vice Chairman & Liaison

Officer: Liam Harty. Assistant Treasurer: Deirdre Doocey. Press Secretary: Joan Clancy. Committee: Trish Brabazon, Oliver Clancy, RoseAnn Foley, Kevin Harty, Dermot Hickey, Connie Kiersey, Seamus Kiersey, Elaine O’Grady, John Quealy. Safety: Terence Morrissey. Safety: Nicholas Hannigan. Box Secretary: Paud Ó Cuirrin. Photographer: Mary Tobin. RNLI Crew: Paudie Walsh, Alan Kelly, Shay Young, Richard Haynes, Liam Harty, Brian

O’Rourke, Sean O’Reagain, Mike Tobin, Fionn O’Curraoin, Joseph Foley, Shane Walsh, Cathal Reilly, Dermot Drohan, Pat Devereux, Stephen Hogan, Criostoir Ó Faolain, Neasa Kelly. Shore: Willie Harty, Tomas Kiely, Deuglán Ó Reagain, Dermot Hickey. Mechanic: Pakie Harty. Lifeboat Operations Manager: John Condon. Launching Authorities: Sean Walsh, Dermot Hickey, Kieran Rossiter, Nick Hannigan. Lifeboat Press Officer: Donal Ó Faolain.

Community Safety Officer: Austin Flynn. Lifeboat Visits: Tomás Kiely. Medical Officer: Dr. Tom Nyhan. Chaplin: Fr. Conor Kelly. The RNLI Dungarvan & Helvick Fundraising Committee work hard to supplement the latest training and safety equipment required by the brave men and women in the Helvick Lifeboat Crew who are always ready to volunteer to save life at sea in all types of weather 24-7-365. JOAN CLANCY

Attending the AGM of the Fundraising Branch of the Helvick Lifeboat held in Dungarvan Harbour Sailing Club were Deirdre Doocey, Anne McCarthy and Kevin Ó ÓMorchoe. [Martin T. Landers] Attending the AGM of the Fundraising Branch of the Helvick Lifeboat held in Dungarvan Harbour Sailing Club were Liam Harty and Kathleen Mulcahy.

Attending the AGM of the Fundraising Branch of the Helvick Lifeboat held in Dungarvan Harbour Sailing Club were Martin T. Landers and Joan Clancy.

[Martin T. Landers]

Attending the AGM of the Fundraising Branch of the Helvick Lifeboat held in Dungarvan Harbour Sailing Club were committee members Connie Kiersey [Martin T. Landers] and RoseAnn Foley.

Attending the AGM of the Fundraising Branch of the Helvick Lifeboat held in Dungarvan Harbour Sailing Club were Terence Morrissey and Pakie Harty.

Attending the AGM of the Fundraising Branch of the Helvick Lifeboat held in Dungarvan Harbour Sailing Club were John Branson and Trish Brabazon.

[Martin T. Landers]

SCHOOL NEWS Pobalscoil students win EU Trip to Brussels CONGRATULATIONS to Cara Griffin, Olan Coleman and Brian Ronayne from Pobalscoil na Tríonóide in Youghal, who won an EU-funded trip to Brussels as part of the EU’s ‘Meet Your MEP’ competition. They were three of forty students from across Ireland to be selected by MEP Seán Kelly after each composing an essay entitled, ‘What the EU means to me’. On the 7th of December, we departed for Brussels from Dublin Airport. A busy but interesting couple of days lay ahead of us. We spent the first day discussing topical EU affairs with Mr. Kelly, including Brexit and

agriculture in the European Parliament. That evening, we got the opportunity to visit a “classroom of the future” which we thought was very interesting. At the European Commission, we listened to talks from Commissioner Phil Hogan about Irish agriculture. In the evening, we had free time to explore the city of Brussels. A highlight for us was sightseeing in Bruges and Ghent. We got to visit all of the Christmas markets in both cities and spend time on the amusements. We really enjoyed seeing the Christmas markets and ice-skating as well as the European

House of History. On the final day, it snowed heavily and we were delayed at the airport, eventually making it back home! Overall, it was a really enjoyable trip. We really benefitted from this experience. We learned much more from experiencing, rather than simply studying at school. It was a really good social experience as we made loads of new friends. We learned much more about the EU’s work and structure and got an insight into how Brexit will impact Ireland. It was truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity! By Cara Griffin, Olan Coleman and Brian Ronayne

Olan Coleman, Cara Griffin and Brian Ronayne from Pobalscoil na Tríonóide in Youghal.

Trinity Book of Kells Pobalscoil Award Winner

Olan Coleman, Cara Griffin and Brian Ronayne in Brussels.

CONGRATULATIONS to Grace Keane (3rd Year, Pobalscoil na Tríonóide) whose short story “Hope” was award winner in the recent Trinity Book of Kells Creative Competition.This nationwide competition gave students an opportunity to examine one of our oldest cultural treasures from a contemporary viewpoint and find inspiration among its enchanting pages. The competition attracted over 1,500 entries from budding artists and writers from Ireland, the UK and the US. Well done to Grace on a fantastic achievement!

SCHOOLS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

TUI members demand end to pay discrimination MEMBERS of the Teachers’ Union of Ireland (TUI) staged lunchtime protests on Thursday, February 1st, over the severe damage being inflicted on teacher morale and the education service by pay inequality. Service to students was not affected by the protests, which took place at lunchtime Thursday outside the schools, colleges, centres and Institutes of Technology in which TUI members work. Teachers and lecturers who entered the profession since 2011 are paid at a lower rate than their colleagues for carrying out the same work. Speaking today, TUI Representative Louise Conroy Fahey said: ‘It is unacceptable that one teacher be paid less than another for carrying out the same work. Pay discrimination has com-

pletely undermined the profession and has had a devastating impact on morale in staffrooms. Unsurprisingly, it has also led to a crisis in the recruitment and retention of teachers, which inevitably impairs the quality of service to students in terms of subject choice and consistency of provision. Irrespective of whether they are personally affected by pay inequality, TUI members are completely united in demanding its end as a matter of urgency. The evidence of this growing crisis can no longer be ignored, denied or downplayed. There has been a 62% collapse in applications for post-primary teacher training courses since 2011, while a TUI survey in 2017 showed that 29% of new or recent entrants to the profession did not see themselves in the job

in ten years’ time. In addition, there has been a fivefold rise in the emigration rate of second level teaching graduates. Recruitment difficulties are evident both across the country and across a broad range of subjects including Mathematics, Science, Modern Languages, Irish and Home Economics, and the list of affected subject areas will lengthen if the situation is not remedied. The reputation and the high quality of the country’s education system is at stake here, and shortterm, short-sighted,‘sticking plaster’ fixes will not work. The only guaranteed way of ensuring the retention of teachers and the recruitment of those needed for the future is to repair the integrity of teaching by restoring pay equality.’

TUI Members at Dungarvan Youthreach.

TUI Members at VTOS Dungarvan.

TUI Members at Colaiste Cathal Naofa.

BLACKWATER COMMUNITY SCHOOL

French Exchange Students arrive LAST week almost 20 students arrive to BCS as part of our students exchange programme with our partner school in Rennes. They are staying with senior students and their families in the area and attend school each day with them.They got to make St. Brigid’s Crosses with Ms. Cashman and Caroline, School Chaplain last week and on Monday they were Ms Rockett learning the skills of hurling and camogie. They are with us until Friday. IRISH ANGUS BEEF SCHOOLS COMPETITION Well done to two students Lucy Massey and Fiona Kenny who have qualified for the National Final of the Irish Angus Beef Schools competition. The final takes place in Croke Park on March 14th. BADMINTON Well done to all teams and competitors in the recent Munster Schools Badminton finals which took place in UL.BCS was represented by Maire MC Carthy, Isabella

Markievicz, Kelly Ryan, Fiona Kenny and Aoibhe O’Donoghue in the Girls U19, Mark Ormond, Aaron Scanlon, Kevin Dungan O’Neill and Jack Cliffe in U14 Boys, Patrick McCarthy, Cathal Murphy, Dylan Conway and Adam Hornibrook in U16 boys, Meadbh McGrath, Maeve Kelly, Jane McConnell, Robyn Coughlan and Michaela Prendergast in Girls U14 and Molly Kenny, Sarah O’Brien and Emily Casey in the girls U16. Two teams the boys U14 and U16 have qualified for the AllIreland finals. LCVP INTERVIEWS Our 6th year LCVP have finished their personal interviews which are part of their overall grade in this Link Module for their Leaving Cert. LCA NEWS Last week our Leaving Cert. Applied Class had their practical task interviews and these will be part of their overall result/Grade in their Leaving Cert. SECOND YEAR ART Congratulations to all the 2nd Year Art students who took part

in Articulation recently. For the past couple of months Ms. Leahy's 2nd year Art class have been diligently preparing for their presentation. Each student picked a piece of art that they are passionate about, researched it and the artist and created a presentation. This was all done with the assistance of Ms. Leahy during class time and two lunchtime workshops on presentation skills with Ms. Mullane. Each student received a Certificate of Participation and prizes were awarded to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place. 1st place: Mairead Ahern & Jean Curley; 2nd place: Viktoria Belych; 3rd place: Lilly Ahern. A special thank you to Ms. O'Brien, Ms. Roche and Ms. Hegarty who had the difficult job of judging the competition. JUNK KOUTURE Well done to the students who held a very enjoyable Fashion Show in Lismore Castle Arts to display their wonderful costumes for this years Junk Kouture competition, they are on display in the school foyer this week.

Our French Exchange students show their St. Brigid’s Crosses. EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES On Thursday the U14 hurlers paly against St. Augustine’s and our athletes take part in the East Munster Schools Cross Country on Thursday. BRIERY GAP LIGHT ENTERTAINMENT Our group travelled to

Mullingar to present their dance / Musical / choral performance for judging in this years competition. The results should be out this week. Best of luck. TY STUDENTS HEAD FOR LONDON This week TY drama students are in London where they attend

two shows and take part in a drama workshop. Enjoy. BALL IN THE HALL Reminder to all that the last few tickets for The Parents Council’s Ball in the Hall this Saturday night, February 10th, are available in the school office or get in touch with Parents Council members.

SCHOOLS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

ST. AUGUSTINE’S COLLEGE

Waterford Coaching and Games Development WE were delighted to welcome former Inter-County referee and great friend of The Friary Mr. Pat Moore to the college on Monday. Representing Waterford Coaching and Games Development, Pat gave a very informed workshop to enthusiastic Transition Year students. MR. BRIAN BYRNE RIP We wish to extend our deepest sympathies to Mary Byrne (domestic staff member) and family on the recent passing of husband and father, Brian. Ar dheis Dé go raibh sé. ST AUGUSTINE’S COLLEGE GAA U-14 Hurling: Our young team make their first appearance in the championship when they play Blackwater this week.This group have trained hard under the guidance of Mr. O’Brien and Mr. Forestall and they hope to continue on from the great win in the football championship. U-15 Hurling: This group have played a series of challenge games in preparation for the 1st rd of the Munster championship V St. Anne’s Killaloe. This game takes place after the midterm break. Senior Hurling: We take on Ballincollig in our eagerly awaited Munster semi-final this Saturday in St. Itas. Best of luck to the team as they defend their title won last year. Ardmore: Congrats to Ardmore on their All-Ireland success. In total, there were 13 past pupils involved on the day. All in the Friary are extremely proud.

Pat Moore pictured with TY students: from left - Philip, Daniel, Ben, Jodi, Rian, Jamie and Alan.

St. Bridget's Day – Transition Year students, from left; Jenny Drohan, Kate O'Mahoney, Stephen Hennebry (3rd Year), Daly O'Rourke, Cara McGregor, Katlyn O'Brien and Jessie Mulcahy mark St. Bridget's Day with Ms. M. McGann. Well done to all. Great display.

Paul Cremin of Suir Engineering Ltd. with Senior Cycle students having given then a talk on careers in engineering and electrics open to them at Suir Engineering. Ms. E. Moore, Career Guidance also included in photo.

72 Waterford Schools to benefit from €450k in digital funding A TOTAL of 72 schools across the city and county will receive almost €445,262 in Government funding as part of a drive integrate digital learning in our classrooms. Details of the funding were announced by the Minister for Education, Richard Bruton, to coincide with the beginning of Internet Safety Week. Under the €30m plan, schools will receive grants of up to €33,000 to purchase key enabling technology, including funding for laptops, tablets, cloud technology and projectors. Waterford Senator Paudie Coffey wel-

comed the announcement, saying it fulfils a commitment in the Action Plan for Education, which aims to make the Irish education system the best in Europe by 2026. The Fine Gael Waterford General Election candidate said: “As a parent of school going children myself and also as a former Chairperson of a School Board of Management I see the real need for continued investment in ICT and technology in our schools - we now live in the information age and so it is critical that our children have access to up-todate technology in the classroom so that they are prepared and confident in the

appropriate use of this technology as they advance their learning and educational experience on their paths towards their careers and livelihoods that most likely will utilise all types of ICT technology in the workplace." This investment is the second instalment of the €210m the Government have committed to investing in ICT infrastructure for schools. Commenting on the initiative, Minister Bruton said: “Digital technology can transform the way people learn, encouraging curiosity, exploration and creative thinking. These are the capabilities our young people will need in the

future. Critical, creative thinking, problem solving skills and adaptability will be key to flourishing in this environment and we need to make sure our young people are well prepared.” He added: “Our Digital Strategy for Schools sets out a clear vision that is focussed on realising the potential of digital technologies to transform the learning experiences of students. While we are introducing coding and computer science into the curriculum, we must also invest in the ICT infrastructure of our schools.” WATERFORD SCHOOLS St. Declan’s Community College

Coláiste Chathail Naofa St. Paul’s Community College Meanscoil San Nioclas Scoil na mBraithre St. Augustine’s College Ard Scoil na nDeise Waterpark College De La Salle College Our Lady of Mercy Secondary School St. Angela’s Ursuline Convent Newtown School Gaelcholaiste Phort Lairge Blackwater Community School CBS Mount Sion, Waterford Presentation Secondary School

SCHOOLS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

ÁRD SCOIL NA nDÉISE

TY Eagle’s Flight Day ON the 23rd of January, 2018, Transition Year students had a day of team building exercises with Dave and Ger from Eagles Flight. We were separated into our two classes, A and B, TYA worked with Ger for the whole day and TYB worked with Dave. For our first exercise, we were split into teams of four or five at different tables. It was called ‘The search for the lost Dutchman's gold mine’. It was set up like a board game, but there were many different aspects to it. Each team had to go through the desert one of three ways to get to the mine, mine as much gold as we could and get back home before the 20-day limit was over. Each day lasted two minutes and different supply cards had to be given up depending on the weather. If you ran out of supplies, you lost half your gold. We were competing against the other class with the combined amount of gold we got, but it was a draw at 36 pieces each. We really enjoyed this as it was fun and made us work as a team. For our second exercise, we had to build a bridge.We were in different teams again, with each team having to be responsible for building a different part of the

bridge.We had a limit of 75 minutes to build it, and we were against TYA again. We struggled with connecting the different pieces and working out where they go from the pictures. Each team had a leader that had to be responsible for them.They had to wear a yellow builder’s hat while the overall leader of all the teams had to wear a blue builder’s hat. We were beaten by TYA unfortunately, by around five minutes. We still really enjoyed the day and learned a lot. We would like to thank Dave and Ger for taking the time to come in to us. Written by Robyn Power, Transition Year REPORT ON WORK EXPERIENCE IN EUROFINS In October last year the Transition Year students in Ard Scoil na nDéise were asked to write a science essay for a competition organised by Eurofins. The theme of the essay was “Why choose science, why now?”. A few weeks after handing in my essay I was told I had won a week’s work experience in Eurofins. On the 15th of January I started my work experience in Eurofins with another girl from

First Year students making St. Brigid's Crosses.

First Year Ard Scoil na nDeise students making St. Brigid's Crosses.

Blackwater Community School. Each day was packed with different activities and by the end of the week we saw every department of Eurofins Dungarvan, from the Laboratories to I.T, Quality Control and the Accounts Department. We got involved ourselves by testing some water samples and examining the different bacteria such as E. coli under the microscope. It was a really interesting week and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Written by Dearbhla Ní hAllachaín, Transition Year ARD SCOIL NA nDÉISE REPRESENTED AT THE STUDENT ENTERPRISE AWARDS On Thursday, January 25th six Second Year students travelled to the WIT campus for the Student Enterprise Awards. The girls that travelled were Katie Lennon and Abby Ryan with their business Twenty03, Kate Fleming and Anna Kickey with A & K Crafts, and Chloe Lenihan and Jennifer Cronnolly with Greenway Postcards.The girls were featured on WLR FM showcasing their enterprises. One group in the intermediate category will travel to Croke Park for the national final.Well done to all involved for setting up, running and sticking with your businesses throughout the year. Well done too for mounting impressive displays at WIT on the day. We wish you all well with your preparations for the next stage of the competition on March 13th. ST. BRIGID’S DAY AT ARD SCOIL NA nDÉISE On Thursday, February 1st, First Year students spent some time bonding while making St. Brigid’s Crosses to mark St. Brigid’s Day. The girls worked hard to get the hang of the tricky business of making the crosses but they all had great fun trying to get it right! Thank you to our First Year Year Head Ms. McCarthy for gathering the reeds and for organising the activity.

Transition Year Co-ordinator Mr. Tommy Collins welcoming Gerard O'Shea of Eagle's Flight to the Ard Scoil.

Students from Ard Scoil na nDeise pictured with their teacher Ms. Gleeson at the Student Enterprise Awards at WIT.

Ard Scoil na nDeise Students pictured with their teacher Ms. Gleeson in WIT at the Student Enterpprise Awards.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

JCPA Awarded to students in St. Declan’s Community College by Ms. Gráinne Walsh, School Principal.

SCHOOLS

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

DUNGARVAN C.B.S.

The Drama Club is back THE Drama Club gives students the opportunity to learn acting and improvisation through acting games and activities led by teachers Ms. Lane and Ms. Gleeson. It is a great way to gain confidence, learn public speaking skills, work as a team and make new friends in a relaxed, no pressure atmosphere. For further details students should talk to those teachers involved. All are welcome.

Student improvisations.

Mr. Sheehan pictured with Seamus Cronin and Jack Walsh who play for Ardmore and who took part in the AIB GAA Hurling All-Ireland Junior Club Championship Final against St. Mogueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fethard (Wexford) on Sunday last in Croke Park. Jack is on the panel and both Seamus and David Walsh are part of the back room team.

Dungarvan Credit Union Schools Quiz

Fergal Colbert, presents the Tony Colbert Shield to Scoil Mhuire, winners of the Under 13 Dungarvan Credit Union Schools Quiz. Included are members of the Scoil Mhuire team, Gabriel Foley, President Credit Union; Sean Cleary, Manager Credit Union; Pat Breen, Credit Union; Ann Jones, Credit Union; Collette O'Mahony, Teacher; and Garvan, the Credit Union Mascot. [Dan McGrath]

Scoil Mhuire, runners-up in the Under 11 Dungarvan Credit Union Schools Quiz. Included Ann Harnett; Gabriel Foley, President Credit Union; Sean Cleary, Manager Credit Union; Orla Dawson, Credit Union; Noel Devereux,Credit Union; Collette O'Mahony, Teacher, and Garvan, the Credit Union Mascot. [Dan McGrath]

Glenbeg NS, runners-up in the Under 13 Dungarvan Credit Union Schools Quiz. Included is Gabriel Foley, President Credit Union; Orla Dawson, Credit Union; Noel Devereux, Credit Union; Jack Lillis, Credit Union; Trevor O'Donnell, Credit Union and Garvan, the Credit Union Mascot. [Dan McGrath]

Scoil an Baile Nua, winners the Under 11 Dungarvan Credit Union Schools Quiz receive the Paddy Harnett Shield from Ann Harnett. Included are Gabriel Foley, President Credit Union; Sean Cleary, Manager Credit Union; Orla Dawson, Credit Union; Lucy Whelan, Credit Union, and Garvan, the Credit Union Mascot. [Dan McGrath]

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

SCHOOLS

Scoil Mhuire Parents’ Association Save The Dates

Scoil Mhuire Abbeyside beaten by Garranbane in the Devereux Cup Handball Final.

Healthy Eating Week in St. Mary’s Primary School, Dungarvan.

ST. JOSEPH’S PRIMARY SCHOOL, DUNGARVAN

Wednesday Training Sessions EVERY Wednesday we are very lucky to have the Colaiste Cathail Naofa coaches come to our school and give us training in many different sports. At the moment, we are learning how to play Tag Rugby. We are enjoying learning all the skills and techniques involved with tag rugby. We really appreciate the coaches teaching us these new skills and can't wait for next week's session. We would like to wish all of our grandparents Happy Grandparents Day which was celebrated on the 31st January.

[Sean Byrne]

THE Scoil Muire Parents’ Association will be holding a Valentines Cake Sale and Coffee Morning on Friday, 9th February from 9.00 a.m. - 11.00 a.m. Parents, family, friends and everyone from the wider community are very much welcome to drop in, stock up on cakes and have a tea or coffee in our coffee dock while you’re there. All donations for the cake sale are very gratefully received and can be dropped to the Halla from 8.40 a.m. on the morning of the Cake Sale (Friday, 9th February). No nuts please. The next Bag2School collection will take place on Wednesday, 9th May, so please keep this in mind if you are sorting clothes in the meantime. We will distribute bags closer to the time, but any bags can be used. Acceptable goods include reusable clothing, paired shoes, belts and bags. We cannot accept bedding, curtains, towels or end of life clothing. For more information visit www.bag2school.ie There will be Internet Safety - Anti Cyberbullying workshops for 4th-6th class pupils on Monday 21st and Tuesday, 22nd May. Alongside this, there will be a session available to all parents in the school (for free) on the evening of Tuesday, 22nd May. All of these sessions will be facilitated by Mr Ger Brick, an experienced facilitator who uses his 20+ years knowledge to deliver talks to primary schools across Ireland. Ger provides practical advice for parents on how to keep their families safe online regardless of their level of computer literacy. All parents in the school are encouraged to attend and take the opportunity to ensure a safer internet for everyone.

SCHOOLS

MODELIGO NATIONAL SCHOOL

Grandparents Day - January 31st THE children of Modeligo NS were very excited last Wednesday, eagerly anticipating some very special visitors to our school - their Grandparents! Grannies and Grandads were greeted by our wonderful sixth class pupils, who welcomed them to our school and guided them around. First stop, Mrs. Fraher's room, Junior Infants, First and Second class. The whole classroom was a hive of activity, as the children traced their grandparents hands, along with their own, to create a very special memory keepsake "My hand in your hand". The children then performed a song, written by themselves, with their own actions, accompanied by our wonderful guitarist Lynda. Finally, the children presented their grandparents with some beautiful, handmade cards! "Grandparents are the best, They love us and we love them. They always keep us safe and sound, Even when we're running around. Sometimes they make us our favourite dinner, Sometimes they give us sweets and treats, Sometimes they give us a fiver, Grandparents are the best. Grandparents are the best, are the BEST!" Next stop was Ms. Wall's classroom for a visit with Fifth and Sixth class. Here the grandparents were treated to a variety of acrostic poems, written by the children themselves. Some wrote about Grannies, others Grandads. All of which included words like kind, caring, wonderful and thoughtful. All poems were a reflection of the amazing grandparents they have! Finally, the grandparents were taken off to the halla, where they were treated to some delicious treats. These treats were both made and served by Mr. Kinsella's Third and Fourth class. Buns, cakes, biscuits, tea and coffee, not to mention some good-

ies for the very hardworking children. The halla was beautifully decorated by each child's artwork, displaying a picture of them with their grandparents.Third and Fourth class also made a wonderful big banner and paper chain to celebrate us all being connected as a family. We were all absolutely thrilled to have so many wonderful grandparents come and visit our school. Watching generations of families enjoy spending time together was most enjoyable . A very special thank you to our school personnel BrĂd O'Shea and Mary Harrington, who were more than happy to lend us a hand in preparing for our special day! They also helped decorate some cakes and buns and even took care of the washing up! We couldn't do it without ye ladies! Please see our school blog modeligons.scoilnet.ie to see the full selection of photographs taken on the day.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

SCHOOLS

Ca p p o q u i n P r i m a r y Sc h o o l

Cappoquin Primary School â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Pupils enjoying Operation Transformation 10 @ 10 challenge.

5th Class pupils celebrate Grandparents Day by inviting their grandparents to the school

OBITUARY

MICHAEL (Mike) FOLEY Cathal Brugha Place, Dungarvan, and formerly Gortnadiha, Ring It is with profound sadness and regret we mourn the passing of our brother Mike, also known as “Big Mick” to his neighbours. He lost his battle with a short term illness. Mike was the first to be born on 11th March, 1967, to the late Mary Foley, to her surprise another baby was born, his twin Pa a few minutes later. Pa and Mike had a strong bond with each other for life. Mike led an adventurous childhood, reared wild and free. He often had to milk the family’s cows by hand and feed the calves before he went to school. Shortly after leaving school he did a few odd jobs here and there. His calling was to be a fisherman. In his late teens he went to work with Liam and Kieran Kelly on the boat ‘The Vega,’ which got into difficulty and started to sink when they got engine trouble.While his shipmates were scrambling about getting their lifejackets and lifeboat ready, Mike went back to the jetty to fetch his beloved cigarettes and panloaf of bread to eat, because he had heard, if he had something to eat you would float better, which must have worked because he lived to tell another tale. In 1998 he lost his mother who had her own battle with a short illness. He took a brave step to go to Chicago to stay with his brother Johnny. He settled in well and had a whirlwind romance with a woman called Eileen Field who he married shortly after. He made his own life in America, he worked in construction and demolition. With the downturn of the economy, Mike found himself back in Ireland. He dusted himself down and with the help of his twin Pa he made a home for himself. He made new friends, especially with his neighbours Nuala and Dan. They looked out for each other and they enjoyed each other’s company. In the last few months of Mike’s illness, his twin Pa was there for him and their bond to each other was even stronger than ever. Pa’s main goal was to make Mike’s life easy and as comfortable as possible. Sadly, Mike lost his battle. Pa and Mike shared their first heartbeat together, sadly Pa was present for Mike’s last. Rosary was recited at Drohan’s Funeral Home by Fr. Harris, C.C. He made his final journey to Ringaskiddy for cremation surrounded by his family and friends. “Death leaves a heartache no one can heal, Love leaves a memory no one can steal.” Chief mourners were his twin Pa and sister-in-law Samantha; brothers Tom, Larry and Johnny; sisters Mary-Ann, Alice and Catherine; sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nephews Christopher, Padaí and Jack; nieces Roisin and Aoife; friends Nuala and Dan. Last, but not least, his loyal dog ‘Fred.’ We would like to take a moment to thank all the staff at UHW Palliative Care for going above and beyond their job to make Mike’s last few weeks as comfortable as possible. “Bandit one over and out.” “Gone fishing.” (Funeral arrangements were by Tom Drohan, Funeral Director, Dungarvan).

PATRICK P.J. LANDERS Bridge House, Aglish, Cappoquin It is with sadness and deep regret we record the passing of P.J. Landers which sad event occurred on Monday, 29th January, 2018. Funeral Mass took place on Wednesday in the Church of the Assumption, Aglish, followed by private cremation at The Island Crematorium, Ringaskiddy. To his sisters Anne and Mary; brothers John and Thomas; family and relatives, we extend our deepest sympathy. (Funeral arrangements were by Tom Drohan, Funeral Director, Dungarvan).

JOHANNA (Ann) DONNELLY Formerly 62 Congress Villas, Dungarvan, and CareChoice, Abbeyside With profound sorrow we record the passing of Johanna (Ann) Donnelly which sad event occurred on Monday, 5th February, 2018. Reposing at Drohan’s Funeral Home on Wednesday from 6.00 p.m to 8.00 p.m. with Rosary at 8.00 p.m. Funeral Mass on Thursday at 11.00 a.m. in St. Mary’s Parish Church, Dungarvan, followed by cremation at 2.00 p.m. in The Island Crematorium. To her brother Michael; sisters Mary and Philomena; nephews, nieces, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law and relatives, we extend our deepest sympathy. (Funeral arrangements were by Tom Drohan, Funeral Director, Dungarvan).

JAMES PHELAN Mitchell Terrace, Dungarvan It is with profound regret we record the passing of James Phelan, Mitchell Terrace, Dungarvan, which sad event occurred on Sunday, 17th December, 2017. I lie down in peace and sleep comes at once for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety (Psalm 4). Born on 16th December, 1927, James was raised by his parents at the Lookout in Dungarvan with his sister Maureen and brothers John, Walter and Barney. James spent his life as Sacristan in St. Mary’s Parish Church. He devoted his life to the Church which is reflected in the very special Bene Merenti medal awarded to James which held a special pride of place in his life. James was a familiar figure to so many Dungarvan people through his work with the Church, both in times of happiness and in times of sadness. This appreciation was reflected in the large turnout to say goodbye. James was blessed with good health until recently. He lived a great life making his 90th birthday which was a well kept secret. His remains were removed from Drohan’s Funeral Home on Monday, 18th December, 2017, to St. Mary’s Parish Church where they were received and blessed on arrival by Rev. Fr. Cooney, O.S.A. Funeral Mass was concelebrated on 19th December. The chief celebrant was Fr. Cooney, O.S.A., assisted by Monsignor Nicholas O’Mahoney, P.P., V.G.; Very Rev. Fr. William Canon Ryan, P.P.; Very Rev. Michael Cullinan, P.P.; Rev. Fr. John Harris, C.C.; Very Rev. Gerard O’Connor, P.P.;Very Rev. Paul Waldron, Adm.;Very Rev. John Kiely, P.E.; Fr. Geoghegan and Rev.Tony Egan, O.S.A. Interment took place in the adjoining cemetery in the presence of a large gathering. James is survived by his sister Maureen Connors; brother-in-law Nicholas; sisters-in-law Kathleen and Nuala; nieces and nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews and by his great friends Pat Power and Mary Ahearne. And while with silent, lifting mind I’ve trod, the high untrespassed sanctity of space, put out my hand and touched the face of God. James’ Month’s Mind Mass will be held in St. Mary’s Parish Church on Sunday, 11th February, at 12 noon. (Funeral arrangements were by Tom Drohan, Funeral Director, Dungarvan).

FRANCIS (Fran) HYSLOP 2 McCarthyville, Abbeyside, and formerly of 21 Caseyville, Dungarvan Profound feelings of sorrow and regret were evoked with the passing of Francis (Fran) Hyslop on Wednesday, 31st January, peacefully, in the gentle care of staff at St. Vincent's Unit, Dungarvan Community Hospital. We express our heartfelt sympathy to Fran’s brothers Danny, Hubert and Pat; sisters May, Breda, Margaret and Marion; brothersin-law Tom Whelan,Tom O'Mahony, Eddie Cantwell and Denis Egan; sisters-in-law Geraldine and Marie; nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Fran is predeceased by his parents Hugh and Joan, sisterin-law Nora, nieces Mary and Elizabeth, nephew Tyrone. Fran lay in repose at the Kiely Funeral Home, Dungarvan, on Thursday evening, 1st February. Following Funeral Prayers recited by Fr. Ned Hassett, P.P., the removal took place to St. Mary’s Parish Church, Dungarvan. Requiem Mass in thanksgiving for Fran’s life was celebrated on Friday morning, 2nd February, by Fr. Hassett, P.P., and afterwards Fran was laid to rest in the adjoining cemetery in the presence of a huge concourse of mourners. May Fran rest in peace. (Funeral arrangements by James Kiely & Sons, Funeral Directors, Dungarvan).

BRIAN BYRNE Cluain Álainn, Tournore, Abbeyside, and formerly of Pearse Street, Dublin The passing of Brian Byrne on Wednesday, 31st January, evoked feelings of profound sorrow and regret. Predeceased by his parents Bridie and Michael; brothers Michael, Jimmy, Noel, Gerard and Seán; we express our deepest sympathy to Brian’s loving wife Mary; son Anthony; daughters Breda, Michelle, Tara, Sharon, Edel, Caroline, Tracey and Ciara; grandchildren, sons-in-law, nieces, nephews, extended family and friends. Brian lay in repose at his residence in Cluain Álainn on Thursday evening, 1st February. Funeral Prayers were led by Fr. Matt Cooney, O.S.A. On Friday afternoon, 2nd February, Requiem Mass for Brian was celebrated in St. Augustine’s Church, Abbeyside, by Fr. Ned Hassett, P.P., assisted by Fr. Cooney, O.S.A., and afterwards Brian was laid to rest in the adjoining cemetery in the presence of a huge concourse of mourners who had come to bid farewell to a great friend and to console his bereaved family. I líonta Dé go gcastar sinn le chéile. (Funeral arrangements by James Kiely & Sons, Funeral Directors, Dungarvan).

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

PAT FOLEY Ballyguiry, Dungarvan Feelings of deep sorrow and regret were expressed with the passing of Pat Foley which occurred on Thursday, 1st February, peacefully, in the gentle and loving care of staff at St. Anne's Unit, Dungarvan Community Hospital.We express our deepest sympathy to Pat’s sister Eleanor McCarthy (O'Connell Street, Dungarvan); nephews, nieces, grandnephews, grandnieces, extended family and friends. Pat lay in repose at the Kiely Funeral Home, Dungarvan, on Thursday, 1st February. In the presence of his loving family, relatives, neighbours and friends the Rosary was recited. Following Funeral Prayers recited by Fr. M. Cooney, O.S.A., on Friday, 2nd February, the removal took place to St. Mary’s Parish Church, Dungarvan. Requiem Mass was celebrated by Fr. Cooney, O.S.A., on Saturday, 3rd February, and afterwards Pat was laid to rest in the adjoining cemetery. Ar dheis Dé go raibh sé. (Funeral arrangements by James Kiely & Sons, Funeral Directors, Dungarvan).

THOMAS (Tom) WALSH Blackrock, County Dublin, and formerly of Waterford With deep sorrow and regret we record the passing of Thomas (Tom) Walsh which occurred on 2nd February, peacefully at home and surrounded by his loving family; devoted husband of Breeda; loving father to Ken, Adhaimhin, Arran, Orpha and Sorcha, and much loved father-in-law to Tim, Joe, Cormac, Dorothy and Madelle. Dear brother of Pauline and Monica; doting grandfather to Megan, Rebecca, Joe, Anna, Saorla, Doireann, Juliette, Luke, Sophie and Eda. Deeply loved and remembered by his family, extended family, neighbours and wide circle of friends. Tom lay in repose at his residence on Saturday, 3rd February. Removal took place on Sunday, 4th February, to Séipéal San Nioclás, An Rinn. Requiem Mass in thanksgiving for Tom’s life was celebrated by An tAth. C Ó Ceallaigh, S.P., and afterwards Tom was laid to rest in An Reilig Nua, An Rinn. Suaimhneas síoraí dá anam uasal. (Funeral arrangements by James Kiely & Sons, Funeral Directors, Dungarvan).

St. Mary’s Parish Church, Dungarvan Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time – Leviticus 13:1-2.44-46 The leper must live apart: he must live outside the camp. 1 Corinthians 10:31-11:1 - Take me for you model, as I take Christ. Mark 1:40-45 - The leprosy left him at once and he was cured. Save Lives: Save the 8th – Every Child Bears the Face of Jesus. ‘Every child who, rather than being born, is condemned unjustly to being aborted, bears the face of Jesus Christ, bears the face of the Lord, who even before he was born, and then just after birth, experienced the world’s rejection. And every elderly person…even if he is ill or at the end of his days, bears the face of Christ. They cannot be discarded, as the ‘culture of waste’ suggests.’ Pope Francis: Talk to Healthcare Professionals and Gynaecologists, Sept. 20th, 2013. Let’s Talk Family: An important part of the preparation for the WMOF next August will take place this spring in parishes throughout Ireland when people will be invited to come together to talk about family, using a programme called: Let’s Talk family. Go and Make Disciples’ – Copies of Bishop Cullinan’s Pastoral Letter: ‘Go and Make Disciples’ are available in St. Mary’s Church and in the porches. Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes – February 11th each year is the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes. On February 11th, 1858

Our Lady first appeared to Bernadette Soubirous. As it falls on a Sunday this year it is not officially celebrated on the day. World Day of the Sick – In 1992, Pope John Paul 11 gave us World Day of the Sick on February 11th, the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes. The sacrament of the sick will be celebrated here on Saturday next, Feb. 10th during the 11.00 a.m. Mass. If possible, please arrange a lift for someone who might otherwise be unable to be here to celebrate the sacrament of the sick. Diocese of Waterford and Lismore. Thinking about Priesthood – Come and See – An overnight vocations’ event will take place in the Pallotine House, Thurles on Friday and Saturday, February 23rd and 24th, 2018, beginning on Friday, February 23rd at 6.00 p.m. and concluding on Saturday, February 24th at 3.00 p.m. See poster in the church porch. 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 058-42374. Daily Mass broadcast on 98.5 FM. Phone No: Fr. Ryan 42374, Fr. Harris 42384, Fr. Cooney 41136. Emergency Phone No: To contact Priest on duty: 0862334282. St. Vincent de Paul Helpline No.: 087-7747870.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

JOHN CONNERY Camphire, Cappoquin 1932–2018 It is with deep sadness and regret that we record the passing of John Connery, Camphire, Cappoquin, Co. Waterford, who passed away peacefully in Waterford University Hospital on the 18th January, 2018, in the company of his loving niece Susan Sheehy and nephew John Connors. John was predeceased by his parents William and Elizabeth Connery (nee McGrath), Camphire; his two sisters Susan O’Shea (Lismore) and Esther Connors (Camphire) and his three brothers Pad (Patrick) Connery of O’Kyle and Jim (James) and Pete (Peter) who lived with John in their home. John began his education in Camphire School House and when he finished his education he began working in numerous Saw Mills, including Bernie Hyde’s, Lismore; Darcy’s, Lismore, and Georgie Mills, Kilwatermoy. He also worked in the Bacon Factory in Cappoquin until its closure. Around that time John started to look after some graves in St. Declan’s Cemetery, Cappoquin, and went on to become Caretaker for almost 30 years. During this time John also became Sacristan at St. Mary’s Church, Cappoquin. John took great pride in his work at the cemetery and because of this it became the envy of many a parish and won numerous awards. John’s Catholic faith was very apparent throughout his life and he spoke on many occasions of walking barefoot to Mass in Knockanore when he was young. John loved to go for long walks in his spare time and on many occasions he would bring his dog along with him. John always had great time for all his nieces and nephews and would always be more than willing to bring them wherever they wanted to go. In his later years when John retired, he loved spending time with his grandnieces who always brought a smile to his face. He looked forward to them calling in to see him a few times every day. John’s strong faith remained with him throughout his life and through his short illness, he found peace saying Decades of the Rosary every night. On Thursday, John was brought home to his house in Camphire where his good friend Rev. Fr. Arthure, P.E., recited the Rosary in the presence of his loving family, neighbours and friends. Lying in repose at Walsh’s Funeral Home, Cappoquin, on Friday evening, funeral prayers were recited in the presence of his loving family and friends by Rev. Fr. P. Gear, P.P., before removal took place to St. Mary’s Church, Cappoquin. On arrival his remains were received and blessed by Rev. Fr. P. Gear, P.P. Funeral Mass was celebrated on Saturday morning by Rev. Fr. Arthure, P.E. Symbols representing John’s life were presented to the Altar by niece Catherine O’Rourke (graveyard book); niece Kit O’Shea (rake); grandniece Rebecca (photograph); niece Susie O’Shea (Bible); niece Susan Sheehy and grandniece Stephanie (radio); niece Liz Connors (Bible); which were narrated by grandniece Emma Tobin. Readings during the Mass were recited by grandniece Jenny Moore and Carmel Murray. Prayers of the Faithful were read by nieces Betty Keating and Claire Feeney and grandnieces Margaret Tobin and Karen Keating. Margaret, John and Celia Cullinane provided a lovely selection of music and hymns throughout the Mass. The Offertory Gifts were presented to the Altar by niece Helen Connery and nephew John Connors. Following Funeral Mass burial took place in St. Declan’s Cemetery, Cappoquin. Rev. Fr. Arthure, P.E., officiated the graveside prayers where John was laid to rest in the presence of his loving family, relatives, neighbours and friends. May he rest in peace. John’s family would like to thank their many friends and neighbours for all their help, kindness and support through this sad time. They would also like to thank Aidan and Marie and all at Aidan Walsh & Sons, Funeral Directors, Cappoquin and Tallow, for all their kindness and support. May we extend our deepest sympathy to his loving nieces Susan Sheehy, Liz Connors, Betty Keating, Helen Connery, Catherine O’Rourke, Claire Feeney, Caroline Connery, Maura Carr, Susie, Kitty, Liza and Mag O’Shea; nephews John Connors, Sean and Jimmy O’Shea; grandnieces, grand-nephews, relatives, neighbours and friends. John’s Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated in St. Mary’s Church, Cappoquin, on Sunday morning, 18th February, 2018, at 11.30 a.m. (Funeral arrangements by Aidan Walsh & Sons, Funeral Directors, Cappoquin & Tallow).

The Samaritans Beau Street, Waterford Tel. (051) 872114. 1850-60-90-90. Lonely – Suicidal – Despairing? Talk to us any time, any day in complete confidence Phone – write – visit

OBITUARY MARGARET (Madge) LANDERS (nee Geary) Barrack Street, Cappoquin, and formerly of Sapperton and Camphire With sadness and regret we record the passing of Margaret (Madge) Landers (nee Geary), Barrack Street, Cappoquin, Co.Waterford, loving wife of the late Mick, which sad event occurred peacefully on 16th November, 2017, in the exceptional care of the staff at CareChoice Nursing Home, Dungarvan. Madge was born in 1922 to parents Patrick and Catherine Geary (nee Ryan). She was a Knockanore woman from Sapperton. Three in the family, one brother and one sister, both deceased. Madge went to Dublin and worked as a Nanny, she also spent time in Ring College cooking. This was a joy as she loved speaking Irish. On one of her weekend’s home from Dublin she met Mick Landers at a dance at the crossroads. Romance blossomed, they married and had six children, three girls and three boys. They lived and farmed in Camphire. In 1960 they moved into Cappoquin due to Mick’s failing health, Madge always had a great love for sewing and dressmaking and started doing alterations which led to wedding dresses and meeting many people from far and wide. A strong willed and social lady who loved family gatherings. Madge, in her wishes, moved to St. Carthage’s House, Lismore. After a while Madge went to CareChoice, she was looked after with great care. During the past few weeks Madge had all her family around her and Mary, her friend, which helped through her final days. Madge had 14 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren; Aoife is in Australia and John in Tokyo. Madge was a wonderful and much loved mother and grandmother and will be sadly missed by all her family and friends. May she rest in peace. Lying in repose at Aidan Walsh & Sons, Funeral Home, Cappoquin, on Thursday evening. Rosary was recited by Rev. Fr. P. Gear, P.P., in the presence of her loving family. Reposing on Friday evening, funeral prayers were recited by Rev. Fr. Arthure, P.E., in the presence of her loving family, relatives, neighbours and friends before removal took place to St. Mary’s Church, Cappoquin. On arrival her remains were received and blessed by Rev. Fr. Arthure, P.E. On Saturday morning Funeral Mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr. P. Gear, P.P. Readings during the Mass were recited by granddaughter Siobhan Lacey and daughter Monica Fallon. Prayers of the Faithful were read by grandchildren Nuala, Hannah and Eoin Landers, Tara Earley and great grandson Cian Lacey. A lovely selection of music and hymns were provided by soloist Dina Walshe.The Offertory Gifts were presented to the Altar by sons John and Christy. Following Funeral Mass burial took place in St. Declan’s Cemetery, Cappoquin. Rev. Fr. P. Gear, P.P., officiated the graveside prayers where Madge was laid to rest in the presence of her loving family, relatives, neighbours and friends. May we extend our deepest sympathy to her loving daughters Kathleen Barron, Monica Fallon and Marie Landers; sons Michael, John and Christy; sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, greatgrandchildren, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and friends. Month’s Mind Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, 17th February, 2018, in St. Mary’s Church, Cappoquin, at 7.30 p.m. (Funeral arrangements by Aidan Walsh & Sons, Funeral Directors, Cappoquin & Tallow).

ANTHONY ATKINS Western Terrace, Dungarvan It is with sadness and regret we record the passing of Anthony Atkins which sad event occurred on Sunday, 28th January, 2018. Removal was from Drohan’s Funeral Home on Tuesday evening to St. Mary’s Parish Church. Following Funeral Mass on Wednesday morning, burial took place in the old churchyard cemetery. To his brothers Jim and Tom; sisters Mary and Ann; family, relatives and friends, we extend our deepest sympathy.

59 MARGARET (Peggy) MOORE (nee Chapman) Villierstown, Cappoquin With sadness and regret we record the passing of Margaret (Peggy) Moore (nee Chapman),Villierstown, Cappoquin, Co.Waterford, loving wife of the late David Moore, which sad event occurred unexpectedly on 29th January, 2018, in the tender and loving care of the Nursing staff at CareChoice Nursing Home, Dungarvan. Lying in repose at Aidan Walsh & Sons, Funeral Home, Cappoquin, on Wednesday evening. Rosary was recited by Rev. Fr. G. O’Connor, P.P., in the presence of her loving family, relatives, neighbours and friends. Reposing on Thursday evening funeral prayers were recited by Rev. Fr. G. O’Connor, P.P., in the presence of her loving family, relatives, neighbours and friends. On Friday morning Rev. Fr. G. O’Connor, P.P., recited Funeral Prayers before removal took place to the Church of Assumption, Aglish, for Funeral Mass. On arrival her remains were received and blessed by Rev. Fr. G. O’Connor, P.P. Funeral Mass was celebrated by Rev. Fr. G. O’Connor, P.P., and was assisted by Rev. Fr. M. Cullinan, P.P., and Rev. Fr. J. Kiely, P.E. At the beginning of Mass, Mary Landers delivered a fitting eulogy of her friend, reminiscing on all the good times they shared. Symbols representing Peggy’s life were presented to the Altar by her daughter Imelda Landers (family photograph), Jasmine O’Shea (Waterford jersey), daughter Grainne Mernin (clothes pegs), grand-daughter Chloe Landers (Paddy O’Brien CD), grand-daughter Imelda Moore (deck of cards) and daughter Bridget Landers (Rosary Beads and Cross).The significance of these items were narrated by Ned Keane. Readings during the Mass were recited by grandchildren Daniel Hamill and Aisling Mernin. The Psalm was sung by friend Mary Landers. A lovely selection of music and hymns were provided by soloist Paddy O’Brien and guitarist Connie Casey. Prayers of the Faithful were read by grandchildren Eric Moore, Trisha Mernin Sophie Landers and Éire Moore, friend Linda Clancy and neighbour Joan Mernin. The Offertory Gifts were presented to the Altar by friend Marie Keane and son-in-law Feeney Mernin. Following Funeral Mass burial took place in the adjoining cemetery. Rev. Fr. G. O’Connor, P.P., who was assisted by Rev. Fr. M. Cullinan, P.P., and Rev. Fr. J. Kiely, P.E., officiated the graveside prayers where Peggy was laid to rest in the presence of her loving family, relatives, neighbours and friends. Son David gave a graveside oration thanking everyone who had helped their family through this difficult time and giving a fitting eulogy of his mother. Soloist Paddy O’Brien and guitarist Connie Casey played one final graveside song where the whole community came together to sing “Red River Valley” for Peggy. May she rest in peace. We extend our deepest sympathy to her loving sons Michael, David (and Deirdre), Sean (and Micheala); daughters Mary Dalton, Bridget Landers, Anita Hamill, Gráinne Mernin and Imelda Landers; sons-inlaw James Dalton, James Landers, Colin Hamill, Michael Mernin and Declan Landers; brother-in-law Willie and Maureen Moore; sister-inlaw Anna Barrett; nephews, nieces, grandchildren, great grandchildren, relatives, neighbours and friends. (Funeral arrangements by Aidan Walsh & Sons, Funeral Directors, Cappoquin & Tallow).

ANNE KENNEALLY Cork and Ballyduff Upper It’s with sadness and regret that we record the passing of Anne Kenneally which sad event occurred on Sunday, 28th January, 2018. Reposing at Ryan’s Funeral Home, Lismore, removal took place on Tuesday evening to St. Michael’s Church, Ballyduff. Funeral Mass was celebrated on Thursday morning after which private cremation took place at The Island Crematorium, Ringaskiddy. To her loving daughter Bernadette; brother Chris; sister Teresa; grandchildren Lee and Finn; sister-in-law Mary; relatives and friends, we extend our sincere sympathy. (Funeral arrangements were by Ryan’s Funeral Directors, Lismore).

(Funeral arrangements were by Tom Drohan, Funeral Director, Dungarvan).

KATHLEEN MARKLEY Clogheen, Ballymacarbry It is with profound sorrow we record the passing of Kathleen Markley which sad event occurred on Monday, 29th January, 2018. Removal was from Drohan’s Funeral Home on Wednesday evening to Fourmilewater Church. Funeral Mass took place on Thursday morning and burial took place afterwards in the adjoining cemetery. To her sister Margaret Cooney; brother-in-law Jim Cooney; family and relatives, we extend our deepest sympathy. (Funeral arrangements were by Tom Drohan, Funeral Director, Dungarvan).

EILEEN LENANE Maoil a’ Choirne, An Rinn With sadness we record the passing of Eileen Lenane which sad event occurred on Monday, 29th January, 2018. Removal was from her residence on Thursday morning to St. Nicholas’ Church, Ring. Following Funeral Mass on arrival, burial took place in the New Cemetery, Ring. To her daughter Aine; sons Pakie, Nicky and Seamus; brother John Joe; son-in-law, daughters-in-law, sisters-in-law, nephews, nieces, grandchildren, great grandchildren, relatives and friends, we extend our deepest sympathy. (Funeral arrangements were by Tom Drohan, Funeral Director, Dungarvan).

FARMING Round-up … IFA to meet with Coillte to get greater clarity on actions to be taken to resolve partnership issues NATIONAL Farm Forestry Chairman, Pat Collins said he has scheduled a meeting with Coillte to get an update on the work undertaken to ensure that farmers’ concerns with their partnerships are being addressed and there is greater transparency on the models used to calculate annual payments. Mr. Collins said it is very important that the ongoing management issues with the partnerships are resolved to the farmer’s satisfaction and that all outstanding payments issue as quickly as possible. “Farmers entered into the Farm Partnership contracts in good faith; they saw Coillte as an extension of the Government. It is important, if trust is to be restored, that there is greater transparency on the models used to calculate their annual payment so farmers understand how their crop was valued”, said Mr. Collins. He encouraged farmers who had issues with their Coillte Farm Partnership contract to get in contact with Coillte.

Proposed Micro-Energy Scheme must be supported by adequate budget and scheme spec IFA Renewables Chairman Tom Short has described proposals to introduce a pilot scheme for micro-energy generation as “mere words that will only become a reality when a robust budget is announced by the Department of Energy”. Tom Short said, “Farm scale and roof-top renewable energy production is commonplace across all other EU states such as Germany, France and the UK.The proposal for a pilot scheme simply avoids the need for the urgent roll-out of farm scale renewables, given Ireland’s EU climate and renewable obligations”. He added, “Previous micro-energy pilot schemes have proved the appetite and demand from farmers to step up and meet environmental obligations. However, previous mistakes must not be repeated and the Department of Climate Action and Environment must put in place clear specifications for the quality and type of technology that will be supported. We cannot have a repeat of the situation where cheap equipment imported from non-EU countries is sold to farmers and homeowners without warranties, guarantees or acceptable standards.” Concluding, Tom Short said, “This week I addressed the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Communications, Climate Action and the Environment and I once again called for the financing of farm scale and community renewable projects to be underpinned by a ringfenced budget of €100m from the additional charge paid by all homeowners called the PSO levy. Renewable energy can no longer be the exclusive right of large-scale big developers”.

Proposed EU veterinary medicine proposals must not impact negatively on Irish farmers IFA Animal Health Chairman Pat Farrell said IFA has continually and consistently outlined concerns that must be addressed in the new EU Veterinary Medicinal Products Regulations to the Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed, Irish MEPs and senior Department of Agriculture officials. He said discussions on these regulations have commenced the trilogue stage and it is vital that the interests of Irish farmers are strongly represented in these discussions. This trilogue process involves the EU Commission, Parliament and Council agreeing a final text for the regulation. These regulations have the potential to impact negatively on Irish farmers and their ability to ensure the health and welfare of their animals in a practical and cost-efficient way by increasing bureaucracy and limiting availability of products. In the context of appropriately addressing the AMR concerns, Pat Farrell said the emphasis must be on competitive prices for key animal medicines such as vaccines and doses. Limiting access to these types of products is counterproductive to reducing the use of antibiotics. Pat Farrell said it is incumbent on the Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed and our MEPs to recognise the professionalism of farmers and their role in protecting the health and welfare of their animals in the regulations.They cannot be hindered by increased costs and bureaucracy. Pat Farrell said veterinary medicinal products are an expensive and vital annual input for farmers in protecting and maintaining the health and welfare of their animals. He said it is of critical importance that access remains in a competitive market with minimal bureaucracy.

Waterford IT among five colleges to participate in 3rd Annual Great Agri-Food Debate • Competition will be held on Thursday, 15th February • Teams participating from UCD, UCC, Waterford IT, Cork IT and Dundalk IT • Brexit, CAP and the environment amongst topics for debate STUDENTS studying food and agriculture at five leading Irish third level colleges will take part in the 3rd annual Great AgriFood Debate to be held on Thursday 15th February at Waterford Institute of Technology (WIT). Students from WIT will be joined by teams from University College Dublin (UCD), University College Cork (UCC), Cork Institute of Technology and Dundalk Institute of Technology. The students will debate the key challenges facing the Irish agri-food industry, including the merits of CAP, the likely impact of Brexit, and whether the AgriFood industry is taking its environmental responsibilities

Mark Browne takes over malting barley role FOLLOWING a meeting of the Malting Barley Committee, IFA National Grain Committee Chairman Mark Browne has taken over the role of chairman of the Malting Barley Committee. He succeeds Deputy President Richard Kennedy. Mr. Browne said, “IFA Deputy President Richard Kennedy brought huge experience, skill and integrity to the role and he did an excellent job. I want to thank him for the work he has done and he will continue to be involved with us as Deputy President of the IFA”. “The Committee intends to build on the foundations put in place by Richard to ensure that malting barley growers have a sustainable future and that malting barley is once again the top performing cereal crop.” Richard Kennedy thanked the Committee for their work during his time as Chairman. “I have great confidence in this Committee who work very hard for malting barley growers in facing the many challenges in the sector,” he said.

seriously. This is the third year the Great Agri-Food Debate, a joint initiative between Dawn Meats & McDonald’s. The debate now includes 5 third level colleges, with ambitious plans to expand further in 2019. The judging panel of twelve will include industry leaders from finance, food safety, retail and agriculture such as Tara McCarthy, CEO Bord Bia;Willie O’Byrne, Managing Director of BWG Foods; Niall Browne, CEO, Dawn Meats; Pamela Byrne CEO, FSAI, and Peter Garbutt, Agricultural Manager, McDonald’s UK & Ireland. Commenting on the event, Niall Browne, CEO said: “This

event is growing from strength to strength and it’s great to have five colleges with strong food and agricultural programmes participating. Our industry faces many challenges, including the impact of Brexit and how we fulfil our responsibility to protect the environment. I look forward to hearing the contributions and opinions of this year’s debaters who in a short while, may be influencing the future direction of the industry.” Commenting Peter Garbutt, Agricultural Manager, McDonald’s UK & Ireland, said; “McDonald’s Farm Forward programme seeks to train, equip and support the next generation of

young farmers here in Ireland. I look forward to visiting Waterford to hear from students about their ideas for creating a successful and sustainable farming industry and I look forward to discussing with them McDonald’s investment in driving sustainability across our supply chain during the event. This year’s debate will take place at WIT’s Sports Arena on Thursday 15th February. The first debate will start at 11.30 a.m., with the final to take place at 3.30 p.m. Each college will be represented by a team of 6 students. Last year’s Great Agri Food Debate was won by the team from UCD.

Latest Komatsu ‘silage-ready’ wheel loader arrives

Komatsu's first purpose-built, agriculture and silage specific WA320-8 wheel loader – now available from distributor McHale Plant Sales. THE latest-generation Komatsu WA320-8 wheel loader – a machine that, in recent years, has proven itself popular amongst contractors for whom large volume silage work is a major activity – has arrived in Ireland. Distributed by McHale Plant Sales of Birdhill and Rathcoole, the new machine is said to be attracting strong interest, with ‘a number of deals in place ahead of the first cut of the season’, according to their general manager Denis McGrath.

First developed for use in quarries, major civil works and construction projects, the WA320-8 is now available as a purpose-built, agriculture and silage specific loader. Able to perform as comfortably in the silage pit, grain and feed store as it does in the aggregates and construction site, the new Dash 8 version is believed to embody all of its predecessor’s recognised benefits – they being higher production, reduced fuel consumption and improved operator comfort.

FARMING

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

TO LEASE – 10 YEARS Circa 132 acres – CLASHMORE Exciting opportunity to lease top quality agricultural land in close proximity to Clashmore village, West Waterford. The land is currently in grass and available in one or more lots. • Lot 1: Circa 33.13 acres • Lot 2: Circa 35.12 acres with selection of farm buildings and crush • Lot 3: Circa 30.33 acres Presentation by IFA President Joe Healy to outgoing Waterford Chairman John Fitzgerald at the IFA national AGM in the Farm Centre.

Analysis of IFA payments unit shows GLAS delays the biggest issue among farmers THE IFA Payments Unit has dealt with nearly 800 cases since last September. This is the beginning of the payment run each year by the Department of Agriculture. IFA Deputy President Richard Kennedy said the Payments Unit was established to assist and support farmers who were facing delays in getting paid, particularly under the Basic Payment Scheme, ANC and GLAS. The Payments Unit also handles queries on other direct payment schemes. Richard Kennedy said, “Given the importance of pay-

ments as a proportion of farmers’ incomes, the Payments Unit is there to gather queries from individual farmers and liaise with the Department of Agriculture to sort out any problems and cut down on delays. It’s part of the work IFA does in supporting farmers”. 95,000 farmers qualify under the ANC scheme. The advance of the Basic Payment happens in mid-October. The remainder is paid on December 1st. There are almost 125,000 farmers eligible for the Basic Payment. Of the 773 cases that the IFA Payments Unit has taken on

SCHEME TOTALS FROM SEPTEMBER 2017 TO FEBRUARY 2018 – IFA PAYMENTS UNIT Scheme BPS ANC GLAS AEOS TAMS KT National Reserve Organics BDGS

Total 353 179 160 9 24 6 4 6 25

Outstanding 101 13 111 9 22 6 4 6 205

Closed 252 166 49 0 2 0 0 0

since September 2017, 475 farmers (61%) have received their payment. 298 (39%) cases are still open and are being pursued by the Payments Unit. 111 of those relate to the GLAS Scheme, which represents 69% of the GLAS delays handled by the Payments Unit. IFA Rural Development Chairman Joe Brady said the high proportion of outstanding cases relating to GLAS didn’t come as a surprise and represented an indictment of the Department’s system. Joe Brady said, “At a meeting with the Department, we said farmers don’t need excuses, they need payment. The Minister has to acknowledge that the GLAS scheme is not functioning as it should, which is a source of deep frustration for farmers. Farmers could be waiting another two months if things don’t improve. Either the Minister gets to grips with it, or he considers an alternative method that delivers in line with the Charter of Farmers’ Rights”.

Browne welcomes Dairygold price and calls on Merchants and Co-ops to follow IFA National Grain Committee Chairman Mark Browne has called on merchants and co-ops to follow the Dairygold lead and declare a price for this season’s bean crop in advance of the planting season. Mr Browne said, “The Dairygold price of €175/t is €15/t over last year’s harvest non-contract bean price.The increased price offer is a welcome development. This announcement will enable growers to make a commercial decision whether to grow the crop or not. Other mer-

chants should follow the Dairygold lead”. It is crucial that growers are offered prices in advance of sowing given the tight margins that farmers are working off. Sowing in the absence of a firm price offer is akin to gambling and no way to run a business. He said merchants and co-ops should step up to the mark and offer growers credible prices for the 2018 crop ahead of the sowing season.

• Lot 4: Circa 33.34 acres This is a top class farm and will appeal to a wide variety of entrepreneurial farmers. For maps and particulars please contact Brian Gleeson Property.

Time to Buy … Time to Sell … Time to Lease … Time to Contact Brian Gleeson Property T: 058 44200 | M: 087 257 1737 | E: brian@gleesonproperty.com W: www.gleesonproperty.com | PSRA Licence No. 003462

NORRIS BROS. LTD. STRADBALLY, CO. WATERFORD Tel. (051) 292215 / 291222

FA R M & I N D U S T R I A L B U I L D I N G S • Fully CE Certified • Fully Tax Compliant Company • Fully Insured • REA Compliant • Health & Safety Compliant • With over 30 years experience • Using only the best quality materials • Satisfaction Guaranteed www.norrisbrothers.eu Tel. (051) 292215 / 291222

READER’S QUERIES Question: My Son and I farm under a joint herd number. He is a qualified young farmer. If we apply for a TAMS grant will we qualify for the higher 60% rate? Can you please advise? Answer: No, unfortunately not. You must be part of a registered farm partnership to qualify for the higher 60% rate of grant. You would be well advised to have a word with your accountant to weigh up the benefits of setting up a registered farm partnership. Farm partnerships that wish to be eligible for BPS 2018 and any partnership related benefits in 2018 must have their farm partnership application submitted to the DAFM no later than the 31st March, 2018. This process can be lengthy enough so you would be well advised to go about it at your earliest convenience. I trust this will clear things up for you.

Tip of the Week: Contact your adviser to discuss N & P requirements and limits before ordering the annual fertiliser. This should avoid unnecessary penalties down the line.

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

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

FARMING

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

Teagasc FEBRUARY MANAGEMENT TIPS AS CALVING COMMENCES ON SUCKLER FARMS GRASSLAND: Soil Samples - Taking soil samples will establish the nutrient status of your land. Samples should be taken before fertiliser or slurry is applied to fields. Follow recommendations as per soil sample results. Target the application of lime to the low pH soils and apply slurry/FYM to fields low in P and K. Early Grass - Planning for early grass, apply half a bag of Urea (46% N) per acre once weather conditions allow. Alternatively, apply 2500 gallons slurry/acre to bare paddocks. Urea is cheaper per kg of Nitrogen than CAN and should be used in Spring wherever possible to reduce costs. The application of slurry or chemical N should be avoided within 48 hours of expected heavy rainfall to minimise losses and maximise benefits. Early Turnout - It is now time to have a plan in place to target early turnout to grass. Use the Teagasc Spring Rotation Planner and you will not run out of grass. Weather permitting lighter stock could be prioritised for turnout for example yearlings, replacement heifers and stores.Target grazing lighter covers on the farm at the start of rotation, building up to heavier covers as ground conditions allow which should improve grass utilisation. Aim to have silage fields grazed before closing them for first cut silage and avoid poaching fields. Fencing - Check all fencing, Carry out any repairs necessary. This should be done in advance of turnout of any stock. BEEF: Yearlings/Store - Depending on silage quality and availability, meal feeding requirements will differ, however where silage quality is 65% DMD or less, feed at least 1.5- 2kg per head/day of a high energy, 16% CP ration. Cease feeding concentrates

4 weeks prior to turnout to maximise the benefit of compensatory growth at grass. Replacement Heifers - Maintain thrive in replacement weanling heifers as they are the future of your herd. They should be getting preferential treatment of 2kgs 16% CP ration where silage quality is 65% DMD or less and aiming for an average daily gain of 0.6kg per head/day over the winter period. Pre-Calving Checklist - Check the basic calving equipment e.g. calving gate, calving jack, two sets of clean soft nylon ropes, disinfectant, lubricant, two stomach tubes (one for sick calves and one for colostrum management), iodine, electrolytes, arm length gloves, standard rubber gloves and access to warm water etc.. Preparation is the key. Have calving boxes clean and disinfected prior to start of calving (1 calving box per 10 cows). Ensure to use plenty of straw in calving pens to keep young or new born calves warm.You should be able kneel down in an animals bed without your knees getting wet in an adequately bedded pen. If there is a historical issue of Cryptosporidium scour on farm, consult your vet to develop a strategy that best suits your farm to tackle the problem. However, thoroughly washing, disinfecting and drying out of each calving box after each calving will help prevent the build-up of harmful microorganisms. Spreading lime by hand after each individual use of the calving pens will also help neutralise any potential infection by raising the pH. Colostrum (biestings) Management Antibodies cannot cross over from the cow to the calf during pregnancy, therefore calves are born without any immunity. A large scale study carried out by Teagasc Grange evaluated the passive immune status and health of Irish suckler calves. Results showed that only around 30% of calves had ‘high’ immunity, 50% had ‘medium’ immunity and

20% had ‘low’ or very inadequate levels of immunity. Calves in the low immunity category were significantly more likely to be treated for disease than those in the medium or high categories. These results suggest that more emphasis on colostrum management is needed on Irish suckler beef farms. Suckler calves should be fed 2-3 litres of colostrum within two hours of birth to maximise absorption of antibodies and increase immunity of the calf to help fight potential infectious bacteria and viruses. Ideally colostrum from the calves mother should be fed, however in cases where this is not possible, emergency supplies should be available. Surplus Colostrum from older cows/ high yielding cows could be harvested and used in an emergency situation. Surplus colostrum can be stored for up to one year in a freezer in milk containers or freezer bags at -18°C to -25°C without losing quality. When defrosting, use warm water less than 50°C to thaw slowly as faster thawing at higher temperature or using the microwave will destroy the antibodies in the colostrum. Feeding the calved cow - Cows in good condition at calving BCS 2.5-3.0 and going to grass within six weeks post calving will have adequate feeding on moderate quality silage (66 % DMD) with no concentrates. Cows with calves at foot and in poor condition must be supplemented with 23 kg’s concentrates until turnout. First calvers require concentrates in all cases, depending on silage quality, this will vary from between 1 -3 kg’s/ day up until turnout. A high energy (UFL= 0.94+) ration with16% crude protein should be fed. Farm Safety - With the continued increase in farm accidents, make sure to stay safe and minimise the potential risks of accidents on farm occurring throughout the calving season. Remember calved cows can become aggressive in protecting their

young after calving. Ensure cows can be safely secured for handling. Remain vigilant at all times. Cows showing prolonged calving aggression (longer than a few days) should be culled (preferably slaughtered) once their calf has been weaned. Managing bought-in calves Buying young dairy-bred calves for rearing is becoming popular once again on many beef farms. How these calves are managed and fed up until they are weaned off milk replacer is critical to their lifetime performance subsequently. • Isolate bought-in calves and give them electrolytes as their first feed on the farm. • Protein levels in the milk replacer should be 23-26%. • Feed six litres (L) per day of milk replacer at 12.5-15% solids. • For 12.5% solids, use 1 25g of powder in 875ml of water to make one litre of milk. • Use water below 40oC to avoid damaging the powder. • Avoid once-a-day feeding until calves are four weeks of age. • Be consistent with feeding times, temperature of milk, concentration and volume of milk. • Cleanliness and hygiene are critical. • Ensure that calves have an abundance of straw under them. • Make sure there are no draughts in the calf shed but, equally importantly, make sure there is enough inlet and outlet ventilation. The experience of the Teagasc Green Acres Calf to Beef Programme was that the farms that vaccinated their calves against the common respiratory diseases at purchase tended to have healthier calves and better daily gains throughout the year. Speak to your vet about the vaccination programme that would be most suited to your farm.

Teagasc National Tillage Conference THE Teagasc National Tillage Conference ‘Building a more resilient Tillage Industry’ was opened on Wednesday, 31st January, by Mr. Andrew Doyle, T.D., Minister of State at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine with responsibility for Food, Forestry and Horticulture. Over recent years, the Teagasc crops research programme in Oak Park, Carlow, has sought to develop alternative, or minor crops, with potentially higher value markets. John Finnan, Teagasc crops researcher, presented work on Oat agronomy outlining, potential savings in seed costs and how to optimise both yield and quality through careful use of Nitrogen fertilisers. Applying half of the N in the first split at Growth Stage 30 (GS30) increased specific weight by about 1kg/hl, compared to the usual 1/3 of N applied early, with no detrimental effect on yield. Eimear Gallagher, Teagasc food research programme, Ashtown, described research demonstrating the value of Irish barley and oats in novel baked and extruded snacks. She described how, with her colleagues, the composition, technical characteristics and baking potential of barley and oat

milled fractions, were studied and used in blends with wheat and maize to formulate new bakery and snack formulations. Steven Kildea, Teagasc crops researcher, described the continuing slide in the efficacy of the main fungicides for the control of the disease, Septoria in wheat. However, he also pointed out that disease control is possible if sprays are well timed to leaf emergence, combined with careful product selection and sequencing, albeit that an extra application of chlorothalonil may be justified if there is any compromise on the main spray timings. A series of short presentations by Teagasc PhD Walsh Fellow students and Post-Doc researchers covered; insecticide resistance, breeding better varieties, six-row barley management, identification of soil compaction and forecasting ramularia risk. Teagasc crops researcher, Richie Hackett, described prospects for more accurate targeting of nitrogen fertiliser inputs and the information that is needed to make better recommendations. He highlighted that whilst there is equipment available to measure variation in crops, there is not yet sufficient

knowledge to use that information to make accurate recommendations. David Wall from Teagasc Johnstown Castle outlined the importance of correct soil pH

for optimum crop performance, as well as how to get the best out of P fertiliser. He also identified the strengths and weaknesses of a range of N fertiliser types.

The day concluded with a lively panel discussion with audience participation via an interactive tool allowing the audience to respond to survey questions covering subjects such

as production costs, rotations and crop marketing. The proceedings from the conference are available on the Teagasc website at www.teagasc.ie

Pictured at the Teagasc National Tillage Conference 2018 "Building a more Resilient Tillage Industry" at the Lyrath Estate Hotel in Kilkenny were (l. to r.): Steven Kildea, Teagasc; Mr Andrew Doyle, T.D., Minister of State for Food, Forestry and Horticulture; Professor Gerry Boyle, Teagasc, Director; Eimear Gallagher, Teagasc; John Spink, Head of Crop Science, Teagasc and John Finnan, Teagasc.

FARMING

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

Co-ops must focus on maximising market opportunity for farmers IFA National Dairy Chairman Tom Phelan has said the EU Agriculture Council decision to temporarily remove fixed price intervention buying-in for SMP this year, was stated by the Bulgarian Council President Rumen Porodzanov to be intended to “stabilise dairy markets in 2018 and to avoid disruptions”. He said farmers would legitimately expect that the EU Presidency, Commission and Council would see to it that this would be the outcome of the changes, and that they

would implement the proposals put forward by the French to dispose with minimum disturbances of the current SMP stock on hand, including through nutrition for the deprived within the EU. Meanwhile, Mr Phelan has urged co-ops to resist the temptation to use this week’s EU decisions to talk down prices. “Co-ops have been running farmer information meetings, and it is important they would convey to farmers their plans to maximise market opportunity.

They must recognise that while EU supplies are rising and SMP stocks have been a depressing factor, global demand is strong and continuing to rise,” he said. “Oil prices have been rising and are improving the purchasing power of many of our African and Middle Eastern customers. China had ended 2017 with dairy imports 37% up in value on the previous year. South Korean demand, which had lifted 20% in 2017, is being boosted by the influx of visitors to the Olympic Games, and SE Asia generally

continues to see import increases of 7%+” “We have seen two significant increases in the GDT auction index this year so far, with the next auction expected to also see reduced volumes being offered,” he added. “It is clear that 2018 will be more challenging than 2017. However, farmers will legitimately expect their co-ops to tell them how they will optimise market opportunities despite the challenges, to return the highest possible milk prices in 2018,” Phelan concluded.

BVD Testing EU-ETS: MEP Kelly ensures Labs must sign fair deal for dairy sector up to code of practice - IFA IFA Animal Health chairman Pat Farrell has said Animal Health Ireland (AHI) must engage with all designated BVD testing laboratories and offer them the opportunity to sign up to the Code of Practice developed by the BVD Implementation group Pat Farrell said there are a small number of cases where animals have been assigned a false negative BVD test result, meaning the animals in question were in fact PIs. He said farmers owning these animals have being exposed to costs and losses through no fault of their own for which they must be compensated. Pat Farrell said the code developed by the BVD Implementation group provides a fair and reasonable mechanism to quantify the losses and costs incurred by these farmers and the basis for the testing laboratory to contribute towards them. He urged all designated laboratories to adopt the Code of Practice. He said, “Farmers have spent €7m a year with these laboratories since the programme started in 2013 and the least they expect from them is to support the small number of farmers who have found themselves in this unfortunate situation.” Pat Farrell said the laboratories that do sign up to this code will be publicised and he advised farmers to enquire with their testing lab if they have signed up to the code and to ensure those that do receive due recognition.

AMENDMENTS made by Seán Kelly MEP (Ireland South) and leader of Fine Gael in the European Parliament will ensure the dairy sector gets a fair deal under the EU Emissions Trading System (EU-ETS) with proper assessments, following a vote in the European Parliament on Tuesday. Mr Kelly welcomed the adoption of the final text on the review of the EU-ETS as a “sensible and ambitious approach to the reduction of industrial emissions". The EU-ETS, which is the EU’s main policy instruments for the reduction of emissions in large industrial plants and power plants, contains provisions for the protection of trade-intensive and carbon-intensive industries that are prone to relocate to other parts of the world due to the EU’s comparatively more stringent climate legislation the phenomenon known as ‘Carbon Leakage’. Under the EU-ETS, sectors deemed most vulnerable to carbon leakage are allocated emission allowances for free, as opposed to other sec-

tors that pay a market price for each tonne of carbon emitted. This free allocation is given as a means to preserving the EU’s industrial competitiveness. In 2016, Mr Kelly identified and highlighted a technical issue whereby the Commission’s proposal for protection against carbon leakage could have left certain sectors unnecessarily exposed. Thankfully, the Ireland South MEP's amendments have been taken on board and reflected in the final agreement, following negotiations with the Council, ensuring the dairy sector and others are afforded fair assessments. “Today's text strikes the right balance between being ambitious on reducing greenhouse gas emissions from our industries in the EU, but also ensuring that EU competitiveness will be maintained. It is hugely important that a sensible solution to carbon leakage protection has now been agreed upon. The Commission’s proposal would have prevented sectors from being given a fair assess-

ment to determine if protection through free allocation of emission allowances was necessary. “My proposals to prevent such a situation have been included in this text which got the green light today. Therefore, our important sectors will get a proper and detailed assessment and will be allocated free allowances if thresholds outlined are met following the assessment. It would have been ridiculous if sectors were overlooked simply due to administrative issues, and thankfully now sectors are all put on a level playing field, and this won’t be the case," MEP Kelly said in Strasbourg, in welcoming the outcome. “Ensuring access to this assessment is particularly important for our dairy industries which provide an important market for our dairy farmers and create a significant number of rural jobs. I want to thank the lead negotiators for addressing my concerns, and for their cooperation over the past two years on this issue,” he concluded.

Dungarvan Mart Prices MONDAY, 5th FEBRUARY, 2018 DRY COWS 1 Fr. 805 kgs. made €1,125. 1 Fr. 680 kgs. made €920. 1 Fr. 715 kgs. made €970. BULLOCKS 4 Lim. 428 kgs. made €1,020 each. 3 Lim./A.A. 410 kgs. made €935 each. 6 Her. 451 kgs. made €920 each. 3 Shorthorn 550 kgs. made €915 each.

HEIFERS 1 Fr. 610 kgs. made €1,065. 1 Fr. 605 kgs. made €935. 1 Fr. 545 kgs. made €915. CALVES Fr. Bulls made from €80 to €140 with up to €240 for strong bull calves. Aberdeen Angus Bull calves made from €150 to €250. Aberdeen Angus Heifer calves made from €120 up to €220. Her. Bull Calves made from €280 up to €310.

Nicholas Dwane AUCTIONEER & VALUER

www.nicholasdwane.com • info@nicholasdwane.com

087 2629 539 Bawnabraher, The Burgery, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford

WANTED British Fresian, Angus, Hereford and Continental Calves • Bulls and Heifers ALSO STORE CATTLE

REA

SPRATT

GLIDDANE, DUNGARVAN

Roadside lands for lease

12.7 Hectares (c.31.4 Acres) – Term 5 years. – Excellent fertile arable ground. – Convenient location fronting onto N72 / Military Road. – Good secure boundaries. – Mains water available. – Maps and further details from REA Spratt.

www.spratt.ie

☎ 058 42211

PRSA Licence No. 001621

Incorp. Munster Industrial Advocate Vol. 105 (Reg. in GPO as a Newspaper) Shandon, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford. Tel: (058) 41205 / 42042. Fax: (058) 41559.

e-mail: news@dungarvanobserver.ie adverts@dungarvanobserver.ie sport@dungarvanobserver.ie features@dungarvanobserver.ie Web: www.dungarvanobserver.ie Follow us on: @DungarvanObserv

Déise Newsround A new collection of Déise songs tomekeith@hotmail.com

THERE is nothing like a good collection of our native songs and a magnificent new collection of traditional Waterford songs has been compiled by the very competent and highly enjoyable Cór Fear na nDéise, ó Gaeltacht na nDéise.The collection, which is titled Ceolta Néata, will be launched in Teach Mhuirithe, Murray’s Hostelry in Helvick next Sunday afternoon by An Dr. Stiofán Ó Cadhla as part of Tionól Niocláis Tóibín. This is a collection of very listenable songs which includes a few of my own favourites including Pádraig O Mileadha’s ‘Sliabh Geal gCua na Féile’ and Na Connerys, Á rá ag Cárthach Mac Craith. This is the famous song detailing the fate of the three Connery brothers from Bohadoon, Pádraig, Séamus agus Seán who were transported to New South Wales for their ‘crimes’. Cárthach came across this version of the song when going through the manuscripts of folklore collector, Nioclás Breathnach. During the week, one of the singers / organisers / founders of the Cór, Cárthach Mac Craith recalled the history of the choir for me last week.

“Cór Fear na nDéise was founded about eight years ago when we came together to sing two songs at Tionól Nioclás Toibín in Scoil San Nioclás as part of a concert,” he said. “Having done so well, more recruits joined the ranks and in the years since, we have usually between twenty and thirty singers on stage.” They rehearse and perform ‘faoi stiuir Darren O’Droma’ who has proved to be an excellent musical director over the years. The launch of their CD will be on the Eighth Anniversary of their first night together. Since then, they have produced two CDs, the first of which is a Christmas compilation, in which they featured local school choirs and Cór an Pharóiste. This, their second, ‘Ceolta Néata’ is a compilation of Déise songs which will be offered to the public on Sunday next. “One of the main objectives of the new Cór,” said Cárthach, “was to unearth and promote the Irish songs that the members had learned in their youth. It was not long before we had a significant catalogue of

We welcome positive, good news stories for this page!

traditional Irish ‘sean-nós’ songs of the Déise. We also used the accompaniment of trad instruments in our arrangements.” Cárthach said that the fantastic poetry of the Touraneena writer, Pádraig Ó Miléadha, is very much a focal point. “His songs, Sliabh Geal gCua, Múinfimid Gaelainn do Ghráinne, Éinín na hOíche and Na Tincéirí form the spine of this CD; as well as other great

songs from various ‘Déise’ sources including Na Connerys, Aonach Bhearna na Gaoithe and Dúthaigh Gheal Déise. This 12track collection varies between choral singing, both with and without musical accompaniment; solo singing; slow-airs and with sets of jigs and reels, give it a multi-dimensional feel.” You don’t need to be fluent in an Gaelainn to enjoy this collection. In fact, if you never learned our native tongue, you would

Where the news is always good!

still enjoy the singing of this near thirty male voices. The cover of the CD features photos of the four schools in Ring / Old Parish which kept the Irish tradition and language alive through the decades: Scoil San Nioclás, Sean Scoil Náisiunta na Rinne, Scoil Baile Mhic Airt agus Coláiste ne Rinne. Waterford or the Deise has never been short of musical talent, but it probably has never been as rich as it is at the moment. Accompanying this CD is a 24-page coloured booklet with the words of each song. The historical background of each track is also given, along with old photographs and writings from local collectors which complement each track. With the weather as harsh as it is, maybe Murray’s in Helvick would be a good substitute to tramping through snow and east wind next Sunday. You should try it. Credit for this admirable collection and production goes to: Darren Ó Droma (feadóga agus Stiurthoir), Eoghan Breathnach, Pádraig Breathnach, Tomás Breathnach, Joe Brennan (giotár), Jimmy Brockie (pianó),

Brendan Clancy (fidil), Dónal Clancy (giotár), Des Hearns, David Hyland (bodhrán), Gary Kiernan, Aodh Mac Craith (fidil), Cárthach Mac Craith, Seán Mac Craith, Mac Dara Mac Donncha (pianó), Fionn Mac Giolla Chuda (fidil), Aodán Ó Ceallaigh, Irial Ó Ceallaigh, Ógie Ó Céilleachair, Paddy O’Dea, Cárthach Ó Faoláin (bosca ceoil), Macdara Ó Faoláin (bouzouki), Pax Ó Faoláin (fidil), Caoimhín Ó Fearghail (píb uillinne, feadóga & giotár), Seán Ó Fearghail (consairtín), Ciarán Ó Gealbháin (cairdín pianó), Seamus Ó hAoláin (bosca ceoil), Ruaidhrí Ó Luanaigh, Tomás Ó Meachair, Lorcán Ó Muirí, Domhnall Ó Murchadha, Pádraig Ó Muirgheasa, Ciarán Ó Nualláin, Liam Ó Riain, Nicky Power (feadóg mhór) Liam Suipéal, Paddy Tutty (fidil & olldord) agus Seán Leahy (giotár) mar aoicheoltóir. Copies of Ceolta Néata will be available to purchase at the launch and then afterwards in Siopa Spar and Oifig an Phoist, An Rinn; David Walsh’s Office and Schools Supplies and in Ben O’Neill’s Music Shop, Dungarvan.

A m e r i c a n S i l ve r fo r Ka te Ve a l e THERE is a certain thrill in opening the internet to see what new material, other than fake news, might come up on Facebook. It was certainly a thrill to see a post featuring local Olympian and World Champion, Kate Veale taking Silver in the Mile Racewalk in the prestigious New York Roadrunners Millrose Games, America’s oldest indoor Track & Field Meet. The race was also the American indoor championships for 2018. This is the Meeting which stages the men’s Wanamaker Mile so beloved of Irish International athletes like Eamon Coughlan who set three world records for the indoor mile and won the Wanamaker Mile at the Millrose Games seven times between 1977 and 1987. The winner was American multiple record holder over almost all race

walking distances Maria Michta Coffey. Kate clocked 6.17.68 passing the 1,500 metres mark and this was the 2nd fastest ever by an Irish female over this distance, In his preview of Kate’s race, Vince Peters of the USA Race Walking Group wrote of the Irish girl: “Leading the posse ‘round the Armory’s 200m banked track will be IAAF Gold medalist from Ireland, Kate Veale. Veale, winner of the 2011 World Under 18 Championships in the 5,000m race walk (Lille, France) is eager to once again be on the world stage”. Considering her opposition and the reputation of those who finished behind her, this was an excellent performance from Kate which, in accordance with her reported wishes, puts her back on the world athletics stage. It is not an easy task to take away

Silver in such exalted company. A quick look at the American press report from the event will confirm the quality of her outing. “Congratulations to Ohio race walker Taylor Ewert of the Southwest Ohio TC and Beavercreek High School on finishing 3rd overall in the Millrose Games mile - and smashing the existing high school national record by 7 seconds! (Kate was ahead of her.) The winner was two time USA Olympian Maria Michta Coffey, better known as the Sheriff of the home straight; the Irish Gold Medalist at 5,000m, Kate Veale, was second, just edging past Ewert in the final straight. The former high school record holder, Lauren Harris, now a college freshman, was 4th overall, also beating her previous best time. Katie Burnett, 4th at the World Track & Field

Championships last Summer in London was 5th.” Our congratulations to Kate on a splendid performance. She is back

again in the higher echelon and ready to take on allcomers. With her talent, commitment and doggedness, we will look forward

confidently to more headlines in the future. (I’m sure there are more details of the race in our Sports Supplement).

Kate Veale pictured taking Silver in the Millrose Racewalking Mile, in Ohio last weekend. (Photo: ny.milesplit.com)

@DungarvanObserv

Vol. 105

Friday, 9th February, 2018

SPORT

sport@dungarvanobserver.ie

27th ANNUAL JOHN TREACY 10 MILE A HUGE SUCCESS

MORE CLINICAL ANTRIM TAKE THE POINTS IN CARRIGANORE

BALLINACOURTY WIN IN THEIR ANCESTRAL HOME

Record field on the streets of Dungarvan

Waterford 0-10; Antrim 2-12.

Ballinacourty 1-11; Nire 0-7.

MARVELLOUS JUNIOR CUP RUN ENDS

Pages 2 & 3

Page 7

Page 9

Page 21

SEE PAGES 10 TO 16 Ardmore AIB GAA All-Ireland Junior Club Hurling champions 2017. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

ARDMORE ARE ALL-IRELAND CHAMPIONS

WEST WATERFORD AC

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

Forde’s Daybreak Winter League

Just one round remaining

Pictured are the first 3 men at the John Treacy Dungarvan 10 last Sunday l-r: 2nd David Flynn Clonliffe Harriers AC 49.47; 1st Kevin Maunsell Clonmel AC 49.27; 3rd Emmett Dunleavy Sligo AC 50.04.

Pictured after crossing the finish line at last Sunday’s John Treacy Dungarvan 10 was Lynn O'Riordan. Pictured are the first 3 ladies at the John Treacy Dungarvan 10 last Sunday, 2nd Siobhan O’Doherty, Borrisokane AC 56.47; 1st Laura O’Shaughnessy, DSD AC 56.32; 3rd Ruth Fitzgerald, Waterford AC 57.59.

Winners of the men's team event for the John Treacy Challenge Cup for 2018 were Leevale AC pictured are two team members Mark Hoy and Andrew Sheehan receiving the cup from John Treacy.

Lisa Houlihan wins pole vault at Athletics Ireland Indoor games WELL done to Lisa Houlihan who made a welcome return to competition at the Athletics Ireland indoor games held in Abbotstown last Sunday. Lisa vaulted 3.05 to win the senior ladies pole vault,at the same competition young Micheal Power was 5th with a time of 8.27.01 in the senior men's 3,000 metres, these were two fine performances from both athletes

Sympathy WEST Waterford athletic club extend sincere sympathy to the family and friends of Patrick Landers, Bridge House, Aglish, Cappoquin and Fran Hyslop, 2 McCarthy Ville, Abbeyside who passed to their eternal rewards last week. May they rest in peace.

Winners of the ladies team event for the John Treacy Challenge Cup for 2018 were St. Finbarrs AC pictured are team members Sorcha Kearney, Niamh Cronin, Ann Wolfe receiving the cup from John Treacy.

Mick runs Wind Farm Marathon MICK Concannon ran a time of 4.01 to complete last Saturday’s MCI Mount Lucas Marathon in Co. Offaly. The race was held on the Board Na Mona wind farm and true to its name it was windy. Well done Mick.

Running Quote Pictured with John Treacy is Gerry Forde, Blarney winner of the wheelchair event at the John Treacy Dungarvan 10 last Sunday.

I HAVE always sensed the exhilaration and independence of being self-propelled.

ROUND 12 of this year's Forde's Daybreak Winter League last week witnessed probably the coldest night to-date as it was a bitterly cold for our second last round, please take note that this week we will be having the traditional mass start, so please make sure to be down for the 6.50 pm start. Once again points were hard fought for last week as the league now nears conclusion every point counts on the very tight league tables. For those of us not in the hunt for overall league prizes we will still be rewarded with a hat will be awarded to all runners that complete 9 nights in the league. First home last week was Nicky Donovan in 41.18 and he was followed by Gareth Pope with a time of 38.30. Helene Hayes was next in 51.47. That man Alan Kinsella was pushing the boundaries once again last week when he recorded a very fast 30.05, the quickest runner on the night. There is just the one night left but anything could happen as some of the divisions are still quite tight as you can see from below. Alice Fitzgerald still leads going into the final round with Paul McGrath hot on her heels and Michelle Finnegan is also in there with a shout in 3rd place. There have been a few division changes from last week also and there's still a few twists and turns before the winners will be declared here also. Don't forget mass start this week at 6.50 p.m. and may the best man or woman win!!! 1. Alice Fitzgerald 2. Paul McGrath 3. Michelle Finnegan 4. Cathal Gleeson 5. Kevin Casey 6. Patrick Power 7. Onra Power 8. Richie Fitzgerald 9. Vincent Tutty 10. Joe O’Rourke Division 2 Molly Fitzgerald Division 3 Linda Bradfield Division 4 Geraldine Lacey Division 5 Colm Bennett Division 6 Donal O'Donoghue Division 7 Lorena Mooney Division 8 Philip Walsh Division 9 Martina Walsh Division 10 Michael Tutty 1006

1978 1925 1878 1870 1839 1836 1802 1798 1779 1755 1703 1591 1535 1424 1346 1347 1105 1194

LONG ROUTE TEAM COMPETITION On the Long route team com-

petition, the leaders still are "Here we go again" (Linda Bradfield, Onra Power and Michelle Finnegan) on 419 points. They have once again extended their league having been the lowest scoring team last week for the third week in a row with just 42 pts and they now look to have an unassailable lead of over 200. Remaining in second are Whatever" (Kevin Casey, Cathal Gleeson and David McNally on 622. Staying in third are "Bobs Angels" (Eamon Curran, Sinead Moore and Denise Nugent) on 830. In fourth place are "Happy Feet" (Catriona Lee, Carol Pope and Geraldine Barry) on 868 and fifth place goes to "What about us" (Helene Hayes, Irene Dee and Deirdre Hahessy) on a total of 968. TOP OIL ASSOCIATE WINTER LEAGUE SPONSORS For the 2017/’18 Forde's Daybreak Winter League we have been fortunate enough to have received associate sponsorship from our friends in Top Oil, our own Kevin Casey and James O’Sullivan have come on board to generously sponsor two €20 vouchers, one for the short route and one for the long route each week. We decided the best way to allocate the vouchers was to pick the 50th finisher in each route every week and to date we have 6 winners and they are: Week 1 winners were short route Sinead O'Rourke. Long route - David Traynor. Week 2 winners were short route Brid Whyte. Long route - Denis Ryan. Week 3 winners were short route Karen Coleman. Long Route - Ted O’Leary. Week 4 winners were short route Eoghan O'Neill. Long route - Jack Ahearn Week 5 winners were short route Collette Whyte-Veale. Long route Michael Dee Week 6 winners were short route Cheyenne Tobin. Long route - Colm Bennett. Week 7 winners were short route Michael Power. Long route - Sean Ryan Week 8 winners were short route Mary Morrissey. Long route - Pat Morrissey Week 9 winners were short route Patrick Ryan. Long route - Catriona Kiely Week 10 winners were short route Aisling Hourigan. Long route - Linda Foley Week 11 winners were short route Carol Tobin. Long route - Michael Ahearn.

SHORT ROUTE RUNNERS BRAVE THE COLD ON SECOND LAST NGHT OF WINTER LEAGUE Once again we had cold, blus-

tery and damp conditions for week 12 of the Forde’s Daybreak Winter League. Once again a great crowd of 47 took part on the night with some excellent times once again recorded. First on the night was Emma Hogan in 23.55 followed by John Foley in 22.23. John was followed by Nickey McKenna in 20.47 with Criostoir Kenneally doing his overall chances in harm when finishing 4th on 20.12. Mairead Murphy was 5th on 19.34. Others to record good runs on the night included Fiona O'Riordan (25.02), Ciara McKenna (21.25), Roisin Feeney (19.54), Sinead O'Rourke (21.03) and Ann O'Donovan (24.33). Well done to all our runners and thanks to all our stewards. There is now just 1 week left (7th February). As this is the last night, there will be a mass start with all runners starting together. Also remember that the Winter League prize giving will take place in Minnies on Friday, 9th February at 8 pm. SHORT ROUTE OVERALL It's still all to play for in the overall league with just 4 points spliting the top 2. Kelly Shalloe on 1002 pts will take a 4 pt lead over Kelly Cantwell into the final week with Criostoir Kenneally in third also in contention on stays third on 985 points (just 17 points behind). The current top five is: Kelly Shalloe 1002 Kelly Cantwell 998 Criostoir Kenneally 985 Ann O'Donovan 908 Jonathan Regan 906 Division 2 - Tracy Grant 873 Division 3 - Fiona O'Riordan 765 Division 4 - John Foley 630 Division 5 - Sinead O'Rourke 563 SHORT ROUTE TEAM COMPETITION "The Shalloes" (Kelly Shalloe, Tracy Grant and Mary Whyte) reman in the lead on 311 points extending their lead over second place, "the Road Liners" (Michael Coakley, Conor O'Neill and Martin Sandford) on a total of 354. In third place are "The Crockers" (Jennifer O'Riordan, Fiona O'Riordan and Jason O'Riordan) on 393. MASS START FOR FINAL ROUND OF WINTER LEAGUE Keeping with tradition we will have a mass start for both the short and long course this Wednesday night for the final round of the league. The short course runners will start first at 6.50 pm and the long course runners immediately after this.

Kate Veale 2nd in Millrose Games mile KATE Veale finished an excellent second last Saturday at the famed 111th Millrose games which was held at the Armory, New York City. The race held over the mile distance was also the American indoor championships for 2018. The winner was multiple America record holder over almost all race walking distances Maria Michta Coffey, of Polish decent. Maria has competed at two Olympic games and was the defending champion going into the race. Three athletes got away from the gun, two Americans Taylor Edwert, Coffey and Kate. These three stayed tightly together for the first 5 laps of the 8 before the champion made the deceive move,

breaking clear of the other two as she increased the pace she drew further away, crossing the finish line in 6.35 to claim her 4th Millrose games 1 mile walk victory. But what a battle for the runnerup spot between Kate and Taylor Edwert, Southwest Ohio Track Club, the two were neck to neck throughout and at the line just a second separated them with Kate just getting the nod in 6.44.17 and Ewert was clocked on the line at 6.45.68. Kate clocked 6.17.68 passing the 1,500 metres mark and this was the second fastest ever by an Irish female over this distance. The fastest was Laura Reynolds from 2011 at the Irish Universities

championships when she clocked a time of 6.17.04. 1. Maria Michta-Coffey Oiselle/Walk USA 6:35.77 2. Kate Veale West Waterford AC 6:44.17 3. Taylor Ewert Southwest Ohio Track Club 6:45.68 4. Lauren Harris Marist College 6:52.55 5. Katie Burnett USA 7:06.15 6. Melissa Moeller USA 7:10.06 7. Chelsea Conway Shore AC 7:23.70 8. Katie Miale Marist College 7:29.33 9. Kayla Shapiro Walk USA 7:39.46 10. Katie Michta Walk USA 7:43.71

WEST WATERFORD AC

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

27th Annual John Treacy Dungarvan 10 mile road race a huge success - Record field on the streets of Dungarvan LAST Sunday saw the largest field of road runners ever taking part in a 10 mile road race in Waterford when 2,200 finishers crossed the finish line in the 27th Annual John Treacy Dungarvan 10. This was our largest field to-date talking part in what has become a must run 10 miler of the Irish road racing calendar. And we were we blessed with the weather or what, the early morning frost made way for the sun and by the 1.30 p.m. starting time the town and surrounding countryside was in splendid condition for all the runners who registered for this year's event. An undertaking of this magnitude needs a huge amount of help and goodwill and this Dungarvan and surrounding areas has in abundance as it seemed that the whole community were out to lend their support. All your help was really and truly appreciated and every person no matter what their role was at the event your help made the day what it was, a superb day for our club and town. Former Olympian and World Cross Country Champion and Honorary Life member of West Waterford AC, John Treacy got the race underway from the Youghal Road just on the button of 1.30 pm. It was a sight to behold as the huge field made its way on the short 1 mile town loop before heading for the country. The race itself served up some tremendous battles and there were many personal best ran by all accounts. This year once again for the 3rd year we had the services of Myrunresults a professional chip timing company, this took a lot of pressure off our timing crew and we thank myrunresults for their professionalism and having the results out is the fastest time imaginable. West Waterford athletic club were fortunate also once again this year to have on board our race associate sponsors: Flahavans, Nike Ireland, Intersport Elverys, Glanbia, Garveys Supervalu Dungarvan, Allied Irish Bank Dungarvan, Country Stores Dungarvan, George Colbert Motors Waterford, Kevin Forde’s Daybreak Dungarvan, Munster Sign and Print, Paul Ormonde of Irish Pride Bread, Avonmore Dairies, Nissan Dungarvan. along with a host of other local businesses who supported the event in so many ways. To Waterford city and county council, Josephine McGrath and all the staff for their invaluable help ensuring that the course was in top order for the race we are most grateful. To all the staff at Dungarvan Sports Centre Danny, Theresa and Gerry which was our race headquarters this year again, a big thanks. To Dungarvan Boxing Club for the use of their club pavilion and Rory O'Mahony, their man on duty our deepest thanks goes to them for all his help. Thanks Gerry Power in the Fusion Centre and the No Name Club and Dungarvan Scouts for the use of the Fusion Centre. A very special thanks to our super catering crew of which there were too many to mention, it was our largest catering undertaking ever and like always the crew under the guidance of Gerry Cantwell did a super job, to everyone involved a sincere thank you. Thanks to all who provided all the food for the runners it was just a super response to our call for

help in this department, the array of food on offer was second to none so many thanks. Thanks to Shirley who looked after the stewards and helpers in her special cafe upstairs. To all who donated to and helped to pack the goodie bags on Saturday. Thanks also go to Liam Lannen for the use of his transport trailer. Thanks to Conor Lannen Country Stores for the use of his van and Pat Dunford, Paul Duggan for all their help with the clean up. Thanks to Jim Fleming, Michael Dunford, John Foley and their start line and finish line crew they did brilliant all weekend. To our top notch P.A. men Tom Scanlon and Barry Drake who both did brilliant, there are no better. To Liam O’Donnell on lead car. Dirk Baumann and his crew for their superb sound system and music. A big thanks to those who looked after the water stations and for the great job they did in cleaning up the litter after. A special thanks to all at our own Juvenile club who rowed in superbly all weekend also, thanks to all. A very special mention to three people who we simply couldn’t operate without, for their work with the traffic management and practical help leading up to race day and on the day itself and that's Conor Norris, John McGrath and Jamie Mills, many thanks lads. Thanks to our friends at Tried and Tested Triathlon Club for all their help along with Dungarvan Cycling Club for all their invaluable assistance also. To our split time callers and mile markers out on the course and those who looked after the clocks also, especially our friends in Carrick AC for the use of their clock. We must extend our sincere thanks to all at Dungarvan Garda Station and Superintendent Michael Leacy for their continued support with this and all our events, the Garda role is vital to the success of this race and they are always most helpful and understanding in their dealings with us. Thanks to the Order of Malta from Tramore for their professionalism and for making the trip to Dungarvan for the event. Thanks also to all the community centres and all those that gave the use of their burco’s and teapots, etc. There are many other people to thank for their help on the day especially all the many stewards out on the course whom without we couldn't possibly have held the event at all, motor bike out riders and our friends at DCC also and, of course, Karen Ryan who had the unenviable tasked of co-ordinating the whole stewarding operation for the day, Karen you did brilliant as you usually do, you defiantly have made this task your own going forward. Thanks to all our pacers under the watchful eye of Tony Ferncombe. Finally, a huge thank you to the lady whose hand is on the overall controls, Ann Dunford our overall race director. Ann goes about her business in a quiet and discrete manner, but for sure, efficiency is her middle name as nothing is left unplanned by her. To all I have forgotten to thank we do say a big thanks and well done to you all - roll on 2019. €3,500 DONATED TO MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS BY RUNNERS OF THE DUNGARVAN 10 For the 4th year this year we donated monies from the race to a

charity. Multiple Sclerosis Ireland was the chosen charity for 2018 and we were delighted that you the runners through your generous donated €3,500 to this most worthy charity who do great work all over the country. On behalf of the organisation a group came along on Sunday and were presented with the cheque on behalf of all the runners who donated to the cause. Our thanks to local organisers here Tomas and Bríd Ní Cahdla, An Rinne and our thanks to Liam and Ben McCarthy of the Southern branch who came along on the day to accept the cheque. CLONMEL’S KEVIN MAUNSELL A CLASS APART Running his very first Dungarvan 10 Clonmel AC athlete Kevin Maunsell stole the show here last Sunday as he proved to be a class apart once he broke clear of the chasers just after the 4 mile mark. The Tipperary man who was the leading Irish performer at December’s European Cross Country in Slovakia having finished 5th in the national cross country in Abbotstown the previous week; also won his own Clonmel half marathon in 2017 and, of course, no stranger to us here in West Waterford AC as he won our open cross country held in October and has also in the past won a few of our summer series events including the Ballymac 5 last year. From John Treacy's start signal he raced into a lead along with last year's winner Alan O'Shea, Bantry AC and Emmet Dunleavy, Sligo AC and Clonliffe Harriers AC's David Flynn and East Cork's James McCarthy. This group were together for the first couple of miles until Munsell broke clear after a very fast mile 3 to 4. Kevin stayed away on his own for the remaining 6 miles to claim his first victory in this race, a delighted winner said after he was thrilled to be winning his first John Tracy Dungarvan 10 and hoped to be back next year to defend his title and possible run even a faster time on what he described as an excellent 10 mile course. Kevin crossed the finish line in 49.27, a great battle ensued for the runner-up spot but here this position belonged to the Clonliffe man as David Flynn finishing in 49.47 had enough in the tank in the end to break clear of the chasing pack. Third home was Emmett Dunleavy, Sligo who run a personal best 10 mile time of 50.04 with last year's winner Alan O'Shea, Bantry AC having to settle for 4th this year in 51.35 and James McCarthy, East Cork AC was 5th in 52.17. There was a big mix of clubs from all over the country filling the category prizes and team prizes which are all listed and all in all it’s great to see athletes from clubs far and near compete, well done to one and all, see you all in 2019! LAURA O'SHAUGHNESSY CLAIMS THE LADIES HONOURS AT JOHN TREACY DUNGARVAN 10 MILE Laura O'Shaughnessy (Dundrum South Dublin AC) was the well deserved 2018 ladies champion of the John Treacy Dungarvan 10 mile road race. This was Laura's first time winning the event having started out this year’s race as one of the hot favourites. Laura was a deserving winner and had 1 minute and 12 seconds sto spare over her nearest rival when

Cheque presentation of €3,500 donated to Cystic Fibrosis from the runners of the at the 27th Annual John Treacy Dungarvan 10 last Sunday. Pictured l-r: Eadaoin agus Bríd Ní Chadhlan, Catherine Condon, West Waterford AC; John Treacy, Ciara Duffin, West Waterford AC, Liam and Ben McCarthy, Southern Branch Cystic Fibrosis. clocking a super winning time of 56.47 to finish an excellent 33th overall. In second was Siobhan O'Doherty (Borrisokane AC) in 57.59. Siobhan is a former multiple winner of the event and it is great to see her running so well. In third was Ruth Fitzgerald (Waterford AC) in 60.33 followed in fourth by Fiona Santry (East Cork AC) in 60.51. In Fifth was Adele Walsh (St. Senas AC) in 62.15. Adele finished 6th last year and is the only one of last years top 6 to also finish in th top 6 this year. The top 6 rounded out by Sorcha Kearney (St. Finbarrs AC) in 62.26. It was geat to see clubs from 5 different counties represented in the top 6 showing the widespread appeal of the race. The age categories were as keenly contested as ever and it was brilliant to see so many Ladies

taking on the 10 mile distance, whatever your time or position we are sure that everyone enjoyed the day and the experience and we hope to see you all back in 2019! Well done to everyone. JOHN TREACY INTER CLUB CHALLENGE The John Treacy Inter Club Challenge for men and women is decided by your first three club runners across the finish line counting all categories. This year's men's winners were Leevale AC Mark Hoey, Andrew Sheehan and Mark Walsh a total time of 2.42.28. The women’s title for 2018 goes to St. Finbarrs AC Sorcha Kearney, Niamh Cronin and Ann Wolfe. A total team time of 3.16.54, well done to both clubs. JOHN TREACY TEAM CHALLENGE MEN’S TEAM Leevale A.C. 2.42.28: Mark Hoey, Andrew Sheehan,

Mark Walsh LADIES TEAM St. Finbarr’S AC 3.16.54: Sorcha Kearney, Niamh Cronin, Ann Wolfe. DEIRDRE CLANCY WINS SPECIAL PRIZE SPONSORED BY AIB Our friends at Allied Irish Bank came on board as associate sponsors for the second year in 2018 and we thank all concerned for this kind gesture. One very lucky winner received a cheque to the value of €150. This was drawn among all finishers at the prize presentation in the sports hall and the lucky winner was Deirdre Clancy. Our thanks to branch manager George Walsh and Nuala Hogan of AIB Dungarvan for their kind sponsorship and for their attendance to present the winner with her cheque.

27th ANNUAL JOHN TREACY DUNGARVAN 10 LADIES RESULTS 1. Laura O’Shaughnessy Dundrum South Dublin AC 56.47 2. Siobhan O’Doherty Borrisokane A.C. 57.59 3. Ruth Fitzgerald Waterford AC 60.33 4. Fiona Santry East Cork AC 60.51 5. Adele Walsh St. Senans AC 62.15 6. Sorcha Kearney St. Finbarr’s AC 62.26 LADIES CATEGORY Female 35 1st Ann Geary Midleton AC 64.32 Female 35 2nd Maura Regan Eagle AC 67.50 Female 40 1st Maria McCarthy Faranfore Maine Valley 63.49 Female 40 2nd Katie Hickson Cork Tri Club 64.20 Female 45 1st Cait Caulfield Waterford AC 68.43 Female 45 2nd Ciara Shorthall Naas AC 68.45

Female 50 1st Delores Duffy Watergrasshill AC 65.47 Female 50 2nd Orla O’Rourke Ballymore Cobh AC 67.40 Female 55 1st Siobhan Kennedy Focus On Fitness 68.27 Female 55 2nd Theresa Barnett Ind 73.08 Female 60 1st Betty O’Riordan Ind. 87.08 Female 60 2nd Marion Lyons St. Finbarrs AC 88.00 Female 65 1st Terry Gough West Waterford AC 1.55.44 Female 65 2nd Maggie Dunne Grange Fermoy AC 2.02.25 Female Junior Eimear Daly Ind. 1.37.15 LADIES TEAM 1st Watergrasshill AC 55 pts.: Claire O’Brien, Laura Rooney, Collette O’Donoghue, O'Donoghue 10, 18, 27.

27th ANNUAL JOHN TREACY DUNGARVAN 10 MEN’S RESULTS 1. Kevin Maunsell Clonmel AC 49.27 2. David Flynn Sketchers Clonliffe Harriers 49.47 3. Emmett Dunleavy Sligo AC 50.04 4. Alan O’Shea Bantry AC 51.35 5. James McCarthy East Cork AC 52.17 6. Mike Carmoday An Bru AC 52.56 7. Colin Merritt Ind 53.17 8. Mark Hoey Leevale AC 53.21 9. Trevor Power Waterford AC 53.42 10. Michael Morgan St. Finbarr’s AC 53.57 MALE CATEGORIES Male 40 1st Jeremy O’Donovan Eli Lilly AC 54.32 Male 40 2nd Fergal Whitty Donore Harriers AC 54.55 Male 45 1st Joe Cunningham St. Finbarrs AC 55.11 Male 45 2nd Vivian Foley Eagle AC 56.26 Male 50 1st Colm Burke St. Abbans AC 55.25 Male 50 2nd Terry Murphy Ballymore Cobh AC 58.42 Male 55 1st Ambrose Heagney 65.53

Male 55 2nd Denis Cronin Mallow AC 68.26 Male 60 1st P. J. Holmes Dundrum AC 62.44 Male 60 2nd Neilus Hearne Midleton AC 66.27 Male 65 1st Joe Gough West Waterford AC 64.30 Male 65 2nd Andrew O’Farrell Eagle AC 79.00 Male 70 1st Richard Peotrowski Eagle AC 69.40 Male 70 2nd Bernard Sisk Ind 89.34 Male Junior Bill Fitzgerald Ind 64.18 Wheelchair Category Gerry Forde MEN’S TEAM 1st Leevale AC 53 Andrew Sheehan, Mark Walsh, Brian Kearney 11, 18, 24 2nd St. Finbarr’s AC 72 John Meade, Rory O’Sullivan, Mohamed Wahbi 12, 21, 40 3rd West Waterford AC 95 Anthony Flynn, Dermot Ryan, Alan Kinsella 26, 35, 36

GOLF

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

GOLD COAST GOLF CLUB You can contact us by phoning 058-44055 Our email address is:

goldcoastgolf@cablesurf.com www.goldcoastgolfclub.com CONDOLENCES On behalf of all here in the Gold Coast I would like to extend deepest sympathy to Tom Kirwan and the extended Kirwan family on the death of Maureen last week. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam. MEMBERSHIP Players are reminded that a substantial portion of their membership must be paid by March. PREMIER BUTCHER @ DAWN MEATS WINTER LEAGUE 2017/2018 Finally, we can see a trend forming in the league. From the following table one can see which teams have a lot to do if they are to qualify and likewise what the teams at the top have to do to maintain their place to get directly into the semifinals. Figures after each team shows

the number of people who need to complete their 10 games programme, the number of games required by the team and the qualifying score at the moment: Dunhill: 1, 3, 4196. Ballinacourty: 2, 8, 4112. Deise: 1, 2, 3961. Touraneena 6, 19, 3713. Copper Coast: 6, 17, 3700. Abbeyside: 5, 14, 3687. Dungarvan: 5, 15, 3657.

Looking at the above figures it will now come down to which teams can get all their games played as all teams can still qualify for the play-offs. No doubt but all team captains will be motivating their respective teams to get out and complete their games or better their scores if they have more than 10 played. It all finishes on Sunday, 25th February and the quarter-final

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 IT was last chance saloon this week as qualifying for the Deise Golf World Winter League finished on Sunday. The qualifiers are Palmer, Snead, Woosnam, Olazabal teams. The Final of the Deise Golf Winter League is this week from Wednesday, playing holes 1 to 13 and hole 18. Winter Rules with placing within 6 inches on Fairways and in rough. Congrats to Thomas Whelan on becoming a grandad last week. His mates were heard to comment that hopefully the baby boy takes after granny and not grandad. Finally, congratulations to Ardmore on winning Hurling All Ireland. The Waterford flag has been flying high in Dungarvan Golf

Club for weekend. Well done to team and mentors. SOUTH EAST JUNIOR ALLIANCE AT DUNGARVAN 4th FEBRUARY 33 players participated. Golfers from Dungarvan, West Waterford, Callan, Carrick, Clonmel, Kilkenny and Waterford played bringing in scores in the 40’s under glorious sunshine. The Captain Seán Ó Ciarba welcomed the players and congratulated Jack Elstead on organizing such a successful event on this historical day for Waterford when Ardmore won the All Ireland. He congratulated the winners and thanked Tom, Chris and staff for the high standard of food and service, David and Grace for the well stocked Pro-shop and Scholar and

LISMORE GOLF CLUB Phone 058-54026. lismoregolfclub@eircom.net

www.lismoregolf.org MEN’S RESULTS & FIXTURES Results, Mon 29th Jan – Sun 4th Feb - 12 Hole singles s/ford - 1st

Nicholas Walsh 29 pts Back 6; 2nd Peter Whelan 29 pts Back 6; 3rd Eoin Bennett 29 pts.

takes place the following Saturday. All the scores up to week 14 are on the website: goldcoastgolfclub.com COURSE Over the past few days the course has dried out a lot and in most places is quite firm. Scoring over the weekend was good. The easiest holes on the course were, in order, 6th, 4th, 7th and 11th. The toughest were 17th, 10th, 18th and 15th. 45 Birdies were recorded with 7 on the 13th hole, 6 on the 7th and 5 on the 6th. 114 players entered the league this week and this once again illustrates the popularity of the format of the present league. Starting next week the ground staff will begin planting new trees, with 350 trees going in in this phase. All the tees and surrounds were cut this week and hopefully during the week the rough will also be cut. DUNGARVAN GOLF INTERNATIONAL OVER 20 YEARS IN EXISTENCE Running from Monday, 28th May to Thursday, 31st May, this tournament, which is run over the three local courses, continues to prove popular with players coming from USA, England and Ireland to take part. This year we hope to encourage more members from the three local clubs to take part by offering them a special rate of €45 entry for the competition instead of the normal €140.

10 HOLES COMPETITION FOR LEGS OF LAMB Easter wouldn’t be the same without the customary leg of lamb for dinner on Easter Sunday. Now is your chance to win one as from now until the week before Easter we will be giving legs of lamb as prizes for the 10 holes competition. DATES FOR YOUR DIARIES Sunday, 25th February: Last day of Winter League Qualifying Stages. Saturday, 3rd March: Winter League Quarter Final. Saturday, 10th March: Winter League Semi-Finals. Sunday, 18th March: Captain’s Drive In. Saturday, 24th March: Winter League Final. Please note that in the event of inclement weather on any of the Saturdays of winter league matches they will then take place on the following day. GENTS MEMBERSHIP RATES FOR 2018 The following are the rates for 2018 and the GUI levies are included:

WINTER RATES ARE NOW OPERATING IN THE GOLD COAST Monday to Friday: Golf €15, Golf

and Carvery Lunch €25 Saturday/Sunday: Golf €20, Golf and Carvery Lunch €30 FIXTURES Mon., 5th Feb. – Fri., 9th Feb.: Winter League Week 15. Friday, 9th Feb.: Open Singles. Sat., 10th/Sunday, 11th Feb.: Winter League Week 15. Tuesday, 13th Feb.: Open Seniors, Ladies & Gents 50+. RESULTS Tuesday, 30th Jan: Open Seniors: 1st: Bobby Fitzpatrick (15) 41 pts Friday, 2nd Feb.: CSS 39 pts. 1st: Joey Veale (17) 43 pts. 2nd: Richard Walsh (13) 39 pts. Gross: Micheal White (1) 34 pts. Sat., 20th/Sunday, 21st Jan: WL Week 14, CSS 38 pts 1st: Michael Kavanagh (6) 44 pts. Cat 0-9: Micheal White (1) 41 pts. Cat 10-14: Tommy Long (11) 41 pts. Cat 15-18: Tom Reynolds (16) 38 pts. Cat 19+: John Queally (21) 40 pts. LADIES NOTES Fixtures: 10 Hole Ongoing Competition for a leg of lamb (the mint sauce is courtesy of Patricia). Winter League sponsored by The Moorings Bar & Restaurant: Round 6 of our winter league started on Monday, 29th Jan., and will run for 2 weeks until Sunday 11th Feb., weather permitting. Round 5 results: Karen Darcy

27 pts (29-2pt penalty); Mairead Ryan 26 pts; Lorraine Troy 26pts (28-2pt penalty). At the halfway point in the winter league, the standings are as follows: Hole In One Gang - 387 Ball of Fire - 382 Par Girls - 374 Sand Traps - 366 Bogey Bandits - 357 Putting Pirates - 314 E.G.M.: Please don’t forget, ladies, next Thursday, Feb. 8th, when Jennifer Hickey (ILGU) will speak to all our members on increasing our membership. Please attend this meeting in the Gold Coast at 8 p.m., and show your support. Portugal in October: The trip to Portugal takes place from October 2nd-6th this year, details will be posted in the kiosk. Expressions of interest to Gillian Cashman. Membership Offers: There are many good reasons for joining us; firstly we are a friendly bunch who are always delighted to welcome new members and visitors alike, secondly our course is open all year round due to its natural drainage and last but not least the scenery is intoxicating!! If you would like to sample same, please contact Bob or Mark on 058-44055 for some very tantalizing deals on offer at the moment for new members. There are always ladies available to take out new beginners and group lessons are arranged with a professional.

team for their efforts in maintaining the course during the recent weather. Ray Barry Allance Captain, presented the winners with some fantastic prizes and praised the condition of the course at this time of the year, especially the fairways and true greens and thanked everyone involved in todays event. 1st Dick Lonergan (18) Carrick; 2nd Maurice Fehilly (13) Clonmel; Gross John O’Brien (5) Clonmel; 3rd John Dowling (18) Carrick; 4th Declan Sexton (17) Carrick; Back nine Sean Fitzpatrick (12) Carrick. VALENTINE’S DINNER Following on from a successful Poker night, the Social Committee has been busy planning for this event which we will celebrate on Friday, 9th February with a special 3 course dinner followed by music and entertainment. Numbers are limited, so book your table now. Tickets priced €35 are available from Tom, Irene or the Vice Captains David and Maria. Tickets are selling well so get yours now to avoid disappointment it promises to be a great night out. MEN INTO GOLF Following the success of the Ladies Into Golf, Dungarvan Golf Club will be hosting a Mens Into Golf Programme. Again, this offers an ideal opportunity to sample golf by receiving lessons from our resident professional David in a fun and relaxed environment and then

taken to the course by our members. All enquiries to the office. ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTIONS The Club thanks members for making subscription payments, thank you for your continued support. Overdue subscriptions – please pay in the office Monday to Friday and for the month of February, the office will be open to take payments on Saturdays 9 am to 1 p.m. You can also pay by card over the phone. FUN FRIDAY FOURSOMES The sun shone brightly last Friday and was very conducive to golf. Consequently our numbers increased with the men outnumbering the ladies. So ladies we hope you will join us next week to make good the deficit. This is truly social golf, great fun on the fairways and plenty of chat in the clubhouse later. Results: Winners - Gerry Whelan and Paul Sarsfield. Runners-Up: Martin Carroll and Marcella McGovern. So mark it in your diary for next Friday and come and join us. GENTS RESULTS Mon. 29th Seniors: 1 James Power (28) 39, 31st 14H Deise Golf Winter League: 1 Matt Curran (20) 35 pts, 2 John Moran (19) 32, Gross Alan Thomas (+1) 29. CSS 32. Feb 2nd/3rd 14H Deise Golf Winter League: 1 Denis Ryan (18) 34, 2 Pat Curran (12) 33, Gross Ml

Leacy (7) 26, 3 James Power (26) 33. Sun., 4th: 14 Deise Golf World Winter League: 1, Denis Ryan (18) 36; 2, Donal Williams (4) 33; 3, Frank O’Donoghue (9) 32; 4, Mce Terry (12) 32 CSS 32. LADIES RESULTS Tues., 30th Jan. 11 hole s/f 1 Tish Baumann (19) 22 pts; 2 Kate McNamara (27) 22 pts; 3 Mai O'Brien (17) 22 pts Fri./Sat., 2nd/3rd Feb. 1, Aileen Carroll (23) 28 pts; 2, June Hayes (23) 28 pts; 3, Breda McCarthy (6) 24 pts FIXTURES Wed., 7th Gents 14H Singles S/F Deise Golf World Winter League Final. Thurs., 8th Gents 14H Singles S/F Deise Golf World Winter League Final. Fri., 9th Gents Deise Golf World Winter League Final /Ladies 14H Singles S/F, Fun Friday Foursomes. Sat., 10th Gents Deise Golf World Winter League Final /Ladies 14H Singles S/F Sun., 11 Gents 14H Singles S/F Deise Golf World Winter League Final. Mon., 12 Open Gents/Ladies Seniors (50+) 16H Singles S/F. SIXTY.COM The winner of the 60.Com competition on 31st January was Maurice Cliffe (16) with 20 pts. If you are not a member of the

60.Com we would be delighted to see you. Just come along and join us any Wednesday. Famous quote: “Golf is played by fifty thousand mature Irish golfers whose partners think they are out having fun.” YOUNGONES Next competition Wed., 7th 12 o’clock PROGRESSIVE 45 Results 25th 1st Bernie Hayes and Mary Radley, 2 Derry Cotter and Billy, Patsy Hackett and Maura Boland. Last 5 Billy Queally and John Considine. Lucky Table Tom Osbourne and Percy Hallahan. Progressive 45 every Thursday night in the Clubhouse, all are welcome. SOCIAL BRIDGE Social Bridge Friday mornings at 11 am, all are welcome. JUNIOR NEWS Obviously, the weather has curtailed our junior activities, but we are busy preparing our fixture list for the upcoming season. Our next event will take place during the midterm and we will keep you posted. Junior lessons will recommence in the Spring when the weather has improved. Any enquiries relating to junior activities can be directed to David Hayes. David can be contacted at 058-44707 or email to golfpro@eircom.net.

FIXTURES Mon 5th Feb - Sun 11th Feb, 12 hole singles s/ford. Round 2 of the Spring League. With a large crowd playing in the spring league there were some great scores recorded with three players recording 29 points. Best of these by a short nose was Nicholas Walsh winning on the last 6 from Peter Whelan who also beat Eoin Bennett on the last 6. TALLOW AREA CREDIT UNION SPRING LEAGUE Some great scores were recorded over the 1st round of the Tallow Area Credit Union Spring League which covered the last two

weeks. Only a very small number of players failed to get their game in. All players taking parting the league please make a special effort to get at least one game in before next Sunday. Captains please contact your team members and ensure that they take part. The team points in Section 1 and 2 are as follows:

Full: €550 Husband and Wife: €800 Distance: (Over 40 Miles) €415 Country: €220 Senior Citizen: €415 Student Under 25: €140 Junior: €85

Section 1: Ted O’Leary Patsy O’Donoghue Paul Kenneally Michael McGrath Liam O’Keeffe Sean Buckley Section 2: John McGrath

6 5 4 3 2 1 6

Kevin Whelan Colm Burke John Whelan Brendan Hannon Liam Feeney

5 4 3 2 1

MEMBERSHIP Membership now due for 2018, please contact registrar John McGrath. LISMORE LADIES The Spring League has started and there is a twist with teams this year - make sure you check out the notice board to see all the new rules for this years competitions. Please make the effort to get out at least once a week, so that your team has the best possible chance. Every single player counts in some

small way. Sunday was a fantastic day and while a little chilly it was a good start to the league. Best of luck everyone. FIXTURES Sun 4th Feb - 9 Holes S/Ford Spring League. All competitions are subject to change so please check the notice board regularly for any changes. As the golfing year started on the 1st October you should have all received your renewal notices by now - your prompt payment would be much appreciated. Please contact our Registrar Mr. John McGrath with any queries.

GENERAL SPORT

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

West Waterford Athletic Club Juveniles

Irish Life HealthEast Munster Schools Cross Country Championships THE next event on the cross country calendar is the East Munster Schools Cross Country which will be held in the grounds of WIT Carriganore on Thursday next, February 8th. This will be a very testing course where the best athletes in Tipperary and Waterford will compete for a place in the Munster Schools Championships which will be held at the same venue later in

the month. All the local schools are taking part and we wish the best of luck to all the West Waterford athletes who will be competing for their schools. Last year the local schools enjoyed a fair amount of success and will be putting it up to the Tipperary schools. St. Augustine’s minor boys and girls teams that won the counties will again field strong teams in a bid to win a minor double. The

Ard Scoil junior and intermediate girls teams will be in the mix when the medals are decided and the CBS will be aiming to retain their intermediate title. ALL-IRELAND B CHAMPIONSHIPS IN GALWAY Best of luck to Sarah Nyhan who will be the only competitor from WWAC in the All-Ireland B Cross Country in Galway on Sunday, February 11th.

The Árd Scoil Intermediate team who will be looking to retain their team title at the East Munster Cross Country.

Dolores Walsh winner of the hamper sponsored by George Corbett Motors which was raffled among all the catering crew at the 27th Annual John Treacy Dungarvan 10 last Sunday presenting the hamper is Gerry Cantwell road racing co-ordinator.

Ally Cunningham will lead the St. Augustine’s Minor team at the East Munster Cross Country.

De La Salle boys team who will be contesting the Junior boys race in Carriganore on Thursday.

the 4th and 13th holes, and the erection of the starters hut are testament to his ongoing commitment to the course. Not a person to rest on his laurels, his latest project is the re-lining and re-sanding of all the bunkers on the course. The target for completion is the Captain’s Prize 2018. A great family man Pat always finds time to spend with his wife Mary, daughters Marian and Emer and his two grand-children Aisling and Tegan. His involvement as a volunteer in a number of community projects is just another attribute of this multitasking gentleman. With Pat Murphy as President, West Waterford can look forward in confidence to another successful year in 2018. GENTS RESULTS Club Competition 16 Hole Stableford Jan. 29th – Feb. 4th. Category 1 Jimmy Murphy (8) 35 pts b4, 2nd Sean Drohan (8) 35 pts Category 2 Shane Roche (10) 40 pts, 2nd Kieran Foley (14) 37 pts Category 3 Ger Donnelly (16) 37 pts, 2nd Ronan Foley (17) 36 pts b8 Category 4 Justin Spratt (19) 35 pts b4, 2nd Fintan Gee (19) 35 pts. FIXTURES Monday, 5th Feb. – Sunday, 11th Feb. – 18 Hole Stableford in conjunction with round 4 Comeragh Oil Winter league. Final Qualifying Round. COMERAGH OIL WINTER LEAGUE – CARRIGALINE TAKE GIANT LEAP If your team is struggling in the bottom half of the table then take heart from the Carrigaline team. Lying in 14th place after round 2, they have moved up to sixth place after round 3. Inspired by Shane Roche with 40 points, they accumulated a record breaking team score of 152 points to put themselves in serious contention for a play-off spot. Glenbeg, spearheaded by Robbie Dalton also put their team in the frame moving up three

places to 4th in the table. Tabletoppers Carrigtwohill hold on to the top spot but are being challenged by An Ghaéltacht and Helvick just a few points adrift. After 3 rounds the cut is currently at 406, but beware as the chasers are poised for a comeback. The 4th and final qualifying round starts on Monday, 5th February. This round will be played over 18 holes and will run for two weeks (subject to weather conditions). Team captains should note that only players who have paid the initial entry fee, and played in at least one of the qualifying rounds, are eligible to compete in the matchplay rounds. Thank you to all who have supported the league so far and please make that special effort for your team in Round 4. COMERAGH OIL WINTER LEAGUE TABLE AFTER THREE ROUNDS Carrigtwohill 424, An Ghaeltacht 420, Helvick 418, Glenbeg 417, Ardmore 412, Carrigaline 409, An Rinn 408, Tivoli 406, Blackwater 402, Coolcormack 401, Carriglea 399, Canty 390, Aglish 386, Glenmore 382, Kinsalebeg 381. Current Cut 406. Full individual and team details are available on www.westwaterfordgolf.com. Just click on Men’s Winter League link. SEAMUS POWER PGA TOUR Seamus returns to competitive action this week at the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am on February 8-11th SILVER JUBILEE SUNSHINE CLASSIC AT WEST WATERFORD Our Annual Fundraising Classic takes place from Saturday, 24th March to Sunday, 1st April. This being our 25th anniversary year we are making a special effort to give visitors and members a truly memorable experience at West Waterford golf club. Those who have played in our previous Classics will know about the welcome and the personal touch you only get at West Waterford. Maybe it’s the meet and greet, the refreshments at the hut,

WEST WATERFORD GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB Telephone: 058-43216. Fax: 058-44343. info@westwaterfordgolf.com

www.westwaterfordgolf.com

PATRICK J MURPHY, PRESIDENT 2018 As we celebrate our silver anniversary at West Waterford Golf Club it is fitting that a gentleman with the standing of Pat Murphy should serve as Club President. Pat’s involvement with golf goes back to 1967 when he became a member of Dungarvan Golf Club. An invaluable member, committee member and Captain, Pat retired from the club committee in 1989 following years of diligent and committed service. In 1991 when his great friend and near neighbour, Pat Spratt, began to develop an 18-hole course at Coolcormack, Pat Murphy was to play a major role

along with course designer Eddie Hackett in its development, and in the setting up of West Waterford Golf Club. He was the club’s founding captain and served for two years in this capacity. In 1993, he was awarded Honorary Life Membership of West Waterford Golf Club for, as the citation states, his “Outstanding contribution to golf.” Pat was elected to the Munster Branch GUI in 1996 where he served in various positions until he retired in 2007. From the outset Pat took an active role in the promotion of junior golf at West Waterford. The success of Junior golf in West Waterford is well documented with six Munster pennants, three Irish Youths championships to their credit. Pat Murphy can rightfully claim a large share of the credit for this success story. Our two professionals, Seamus Power USPGA Tour, and Gary Hurley, European Challenge Tour, are loud in their praise of Pat Murphy’s contribution to their respective careers. Pat is a member of the British and International Greenkeepers Association, and the Golf Course Superintendents Association of Ireland. As for West Waterford Golf Club, hardly a day passes without Pat being seen attending to various projects throughout the course. His contribution to the development of

the fabulous prizes, or just the game of golf on a top class course that makes the event special that causes players to come back each year. We look forward to meeting you and extending a warm West Waterford welcome to all. Make a note of the dates in your diary and keep the Easter weekend in mind. BUNKER PROJECT RESUMES The recent spell of wet weather curtailed progress on the bunker renovation project. Weather permitting we hope to resume work this week. The ambitious plan is to insert new liners and new sand in all bunkers on the course. Next time you are playing, take a good look at the bunkers on the 1st and 10th holes which have been completed. We are hoping to have all bunkers up to this standard over the next few months. Apologies for any inconvenience caused during the project. AUTUMN SENIORS FIXTURES 2018 Just a timely reminder that the Autumn Seniors Alliance will start in early April. The proposed fixture list is posted on the notice-board. Anyone interested in playing please give your name to Pat Power. ARDMORE – ALL IRELAND CHAMPIONS Heartiest congratulations to the Ardmore Junior hurlers on their magnificent victory in the All Ireland final at Croke Park on Sunday last. NEW MEMBERS WELCOME West Waterford can offer a variety of packages to anyone wishing to take up the game of golf. Renowned for its friendly atmosphere as well as being home to two professional golfers we at West Waterford would like you to sample what we have on offer. We pride ourselves on dealing with our members on a first name basis and involving all members in events at the club. Why not call along and talk to Gillian or Austin and discover for yourself an experience which you only get at West Waterford.

SUNDAY LUNCH AT WEST WATERFORD Thinking of somewhere new to go for Sunday lunch, then go no further than West Waterford Golf and Country Club. Located in the splendid setting of the Brickey Valley this is the ideal venue for the family lunch on Sunday. Remember you don’t have to be a member to visit our restaurant. The General Public are most welcome to our Sunday Lunch served from 12.30 to 3.30 each Sunday. The kids will enjoy the spacious surrounds within and outside the clubhouse. Our chef John offers a wide and varied menu to suit all tastes and you are assured of a hearty welcome and personal attention at West Waterford Golf Club. We look forward to serving you. LADIES Result: 9 Hole January Results (2 cards to count) – kindly sponsored by Mary Spratt: 1st – Nora Flynn (31) – 31 pts; 2nd – Marie T. Curran (23) – 27 pts; 3rd – Stella Kinsella (36) – 24 pts. Matchplay: Match play continues for another week. We have already had a good few ladies play their matches. Do play for your team as soon as you can as this round could make all the difference to your teams score. Running alongside the matchplay round for those who have already played their matchplay there is the usual 9 hole February competition and an ongoing 13 hole. Mother’s Day Competition: Mother’s Day Competition sponsored by Dungarvan Shopping Centre. The Final of this Competition will be played on Saturday, March 10th, between the three local clubs. West Waterford Golf Club has been selected as the venue this year. To qualify as one of the top three scorers, to go forward to the final, a special qualifying competition, for our members, will be run on the Thursday / Sunday format i.e. Thursday, 22nd February or Sunday, 25th February.

GAA

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

FROM THE FILES OF THE DUNGARVAN OBSERVER 66 Main Street, Dungarvan

(058) 45590 nicky@mckennacomputers.com

Club Focus Wednesday, 11th February, 1998.

Waterford hurlers through to Waterford Crystal Final Waterford 1-7; Kilkenny 0-4. WATERFORD hurlers continued their recent good form with another spirited performance at Walsh Park on Sunday last when they recorded a fully deserved six point victory over neighbours Kilkenny. Thus reversing the AIB result of three weeks ago. Conditions were far from conducive to hurling as the sliotar was regularly stuck in the “tacky” Walsh Park surface. However, it must be stated that the conditions were the same for both teams and Waterford’s greater drive and workrate saw them in control of the proceedings here from the outset. Dan Shanahan, who had his moments here, put Ken McGrath in for the opening point in the 1st minute. Derek McGrath, whose workrate was commendable, won a free which Paul Flynn duly pointed in the 7th minute. Denis Byrne was on target from frees in the 8th and 9th minutes, before putting Kilkenny in front for the only time in the game in the 12th minute with a neat point from play. The only goal of the game came in the 14th minute when Tony Browne, who made a welcome return to the colours, drove a long range free deep into the Kilkenny citadel, where Billy O’Sullivan, avail-

ing of some little confusion in the Noreside defence, did well to flick the ball to the empty net, 1-2 to 0-3, and Waterford remained firmly in control thereafter. Denis Byrne pointed a 26th minute free, 1-2 to 04, and amazingly this was to be Kilkenny’s last score of the game. On the turnover Billy O’Sullivan placed John Meaney for a point inside 30 seconds. Ken McGrath pointed in the 33rd minute. Tony Browne placed Ken McGrath for a point from play in the 37th minute. The same player pointed a free in the 54th minute. In defence, Sean Cullinane again excelled at full back, with Mark O’Sullivan also starring. While Stephen Frampton had a steady hour at right full, with James O’Connor and Peter Queally working hard in the wing back positions. At centre half back Fergal Hartley was back to his brilliant best. He was by far and away the best hurler on the pitch. Waterford scorers: K. McGrath 0-4, B. O’Sullivan 1-0, P. Flynn, J. Meaney and M. White 0-1 each. Kilkenny scorer: D. Byrne 0-4. Waterford: S. Brenner; S. Frampton, S. Cullinane, M. O’Sullivan; J. O’Connor, F. Hartley, P. Queally; G. Gater, T. Browne; D. Shanahan, K. McGrath, B. O’Sullivan; D. McGrath, J. Meaney, P. Flynn. Subs: B. Greene for T. Browne; M. White for J. Meaney. Kilkenny: J. McGarry; T. Hickey, L. Simpson, L. Keoghan; D. Cleere, E. O’Dwyer, M. Kavanagh; P. Larkin, A. Comerford; P. Barry, D. Barry, S. Ryan; P. J. Delaney, J. Carey, C. Carter. Subs: N. Moloney for C. Carter; S. Prendergast for P. Barry; K. Phelan for A. Comerford. Referee: P. Doyle (Wexford).

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

TEAMS OF TIMES GONE BY SENIOR HURLING CHALLANGE Tournament: Senior Hurling Challange game. Venue: Fraher Field. Date: Saturday, 7th February, 1998. Full-time score: UCC 2-12; Waterford Second String XV 1-14. Waterford team: B. Landers; E. O’Sullivan, G. Breen, D. Van De Veen; A. Kirwan, T. Feeney, B. Greene; D. Moore, J. J. Ronayne; F. O’Shea, M. Murray, J. P. Fitzpatrick; M. White, S. Ahearne, A. Lennon. Subs: P. Long for J. J. Ronayne; A. Robinson for B. Landers.

Gaultier puts title on the line JJ KAVANAGH AND SONS COUNTY 2017 UNDER 21 ‘A’ FOOTBALL FINAL GAULTIER V BALLINACOURTY Saturday, February 10th at 2.00 p.m. Venue: Gold Coast Ballinacourty REIGNING County under 21 football champions from 2016, Gaultier will be seeking their third such title when they take on the local side Ballinacourty in the 2017 County final at the Gold Coast this Saturday at 2 pm. Ballinacourty will be seeking

their 11th title, having won their first in 1970 and their last one five years ago in 2012. Both sides are no strangers to one another having played County finals in the younger age groups in recent years. ‘Courty won the minor title in 2015 and Gaultier came out on top the following year. Dano Looby’s charges have the benefit of a tough encounter against Nire last Saturday at the same venue while Gaultier had it all too easy against Dungarvan in the other semi-final a few weeks ago. Ballinacourty will field without their key player Conor Prunty, out through injury and he will be a big

loss to his club’s ambition of regaining this title. However, ‘Courty showed great levels of fitness in the latter stages of their game against the Nire and they may have the edge over their Eastern opposition in this area. Whether it will make a difference or not but Gaultier would have not played at this venue before while it is well known to the ‘Courty players. The Gold Coast is an ideal venue at this time of the year and the hardy patrons who will face the cold conditions there should be treated to a fine game of football between two evenly matched sides.

Footballers face another difficult task ALLIANZ NFL DIVISION 4 ROUND 3 WATERFORD V LAOIS Saturday, February 10th at 7.00 p.m. Venue: O’Moore Park, Portlaoise. WATERFORD’S senior footballers

face yet another difficult outing in Division 4 of the National football league this Saturday when they travel to Portlaoise to take on the second of the two teams that came down from Division 3 last year. Tom McGlinchey’s men went under to Antrim in Carriganore last Sunday by 2-12 to 0-10 and it will be a surprise if they can overcome

a Laois team that already has recorded good wins over Limerick by 2-14 to 2-12 and Leitrim away last week by 3-16 to 3-10. However, Waterford enjoyed plenty possession against Antrim and if they can improve on their finishing, then perhaps they can get something out of this game. Forecast: Laois.

Waterford Ladies Gaelic Football Player of the Year Awards presentation for 2017; Aine O'Neill, Under 14 Player of the Year, receives her award from Michelle Ryan, special guest. Included is Nicky Sheehan, Team Manager. [Dan McGrath]

Waterford Ladies Football

Great win for our Senior team against Clare Waterford ………………..… 3-12; Clare ……………………….… 1-4. OUR senior team played their second match of the league against Clare at home in Carriganore last Saturday 3rd February. The Déise girls put in a good 60 minute performance to win on a scoreline of 3-12 to 1-4. Pat Sullivan made a few changes from last week’s defeat to Tyrone giving players such as Karen McGrath, Michelle Ryan, Liz Devine and Lauren McGregor the opportunity to start and prove their ability. The Déise girls got off to a great start with a goal in the first five minutes from a joint effort between Sinéad Ryan and Lauren McGregor. Niamh O’Dea responded with a point for Clare who were playing with the wind in the first half. Sinéad Ryan then tapped over a free and her sister Michelle kicked one from play not long after. Waterford continued to stretch their lead as both Eimear Fennell and Sinéad kicked two more frees over the bar. Roisín Tobin pointed for Waterford before Lauren McGregor got in on goal and found the back of the Clare net. This gave Waterford a 2-5 to 0-01 lead, however Clare never gave up and finished with the last two points of the half, one coming from a free. The half-time score was Waterford 2-5; Clare 0-3. Waterford were playing with the wind in the second half however it was the Clare girls who got the first point. Pat Sullivan started to bring on some subs who increased the intensity of the game. The next

Forde’s

point came from substitute Aoife Murray who wasn’t long on the field. Clare responded with a goal from Orla Devitt however this was to be their last score of the game. Maria Delahunty who is just back from injury came on and had a fantastic game, kicking her first point to give the Déise girls a lead of 2-07 to 1-04. Eimear Fennell found her scoring boots and kicked a further two points from play before her club mate Delahunty kicked another two points. The Déise girls continued to push on, Eimear Fennell kicked another fine point and Geraldine Power finished the Déise scoring with a goal leaving the final score Waterford 3-12; Clare 1-04. Waterford will play Laois away next Sunday, February 11th Team: Sally Kelly, Rebecca Casey, Megan Dunford, Aisling Hahessy, Mairéad Wall, Emma Murray, Michelle McGrath, Karen McGrath, Roisín Tobin, Lauren McGregor, Liz Devine, Katie Murray, Sinéad Ryan, Michelle Ryan, Eimear Fennell. Subs: Aoife Murray for Liz Devine, Maria Delahunty for Michelle Ryan, Aileen Wall for Sinéad Ryan, Geraldine Power for Lauren McGregor, Caragh McCarthy for Aisling Hahessy, Laura Cusack for Mairéad Wall, Dearbhaile Ní hAodha for Karen McGrath. Scorers: Lauren McGregor (2-0), Eimear Fennell (0-4), Maria Delahunty (0-3), Geraldine Power (1-0), Sinéad Ryan (0-2 frees), Michelle Ryan, Aoife Murray and

Roisín Tobin (0-1) MINOR Our minors had their first match of the year playing Loretta Clonmel last weekend. This was a great game for all as we continue to train hard for our first game of the championship which will be against Limerick at home on Saturday, 10th March. UNDER 16 MEDAL PRESENTATION Our All Ireland winning under 16 team received their medals by senior player Michelle Ryan last Friday night 2nd February in the Gold Coast Hotel. A great night was had and a huge congratulations again to the team and the management of Johnny Troy, Paul Fitzgearld, Gráinne Costello, Fionnuala Flynn and Kevin Barry. The Player of the Year awards were also presented on the night with Chloe Fennell (Stradbally) winning the minor award, Roisín Dunphy (Stradbally) was the winner of the u16 player of the year and Aine O’Neill (Kilrossanty/ Brickeys) picked up the u14 player of the year award. LIDL PPS INTERPROS Congratulations to Keely Corbett Barry (Comeragh Rangers) who was a member of the Munster PPS Interpros team recently. Having beaten Leinster, Ulster and Connaught they played Ulster in the final where they were unfortunately beaten by a goal. COUNTY BOARD MEETING Reminder of County Board meeting which will be held next Monday, 12th February. Youghal Road, Dungarvan, Co Waterford. 087 2674890 Dungarvanstatoil@cablesurf.com

FORDE’S DAYBREAK FORECAST CORNER Last Week’s Forecasts: 3 Forecasts. 2 Correct. 1 Incorrect. Success Rate: 66.6% This Week’s Forecasts: NFL: Laois v (Waterford). County 2017 U-21 Football Final : Ballinacourty v (Gaultier). To Date: 11 Forecasts. 5 Correct. 6 Incorrect. Success Rate: 45.5%

GAA

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

More clinical Antrim take the points in Carriganore Allianz National Football League – Round 2 - Division 4 Waterford's Donal Breathnach is tackled by Antrim's Niall Delargy during their NFL Div 4 Round 2 match played at the WIT Arena. [Maurice Hennebry]

Antrim ………………………2-12; Waterford ………………..…0-10. FOR any team seeking promotion from Division 4 of the Allianz League losing home games is not an option. Having come away from Aughrim with a well deserved draw against Wicklow in their opening game Waterford looked forward with confidence to taking on Antrim in Carriganore given the ‘Saffrons’ record of not having won an away game last year which resulted in their stay in Division 3 being short lived. Once again, however, the inconsistency that has dogged Tom McGlinchey’s side in recent years kicked in and despite enjoying as much possession as the visitors the failure to apply the finish to some good approach work when close to goal was to cost dearly. The tactics employed by both sides were very similar. Funnel everyone back behind the ball when your opponent is in possession and break forward in numbers having built patiently from the back. There were many times in this game when we had just one player from each side and a goalkeeper in one half of the field but when it

came down to applying the finishing touch the visitors were that more direct and clinical in their finishing. Their goals, one in each half, were out of the top drawer and rocked Waterford back on their heels when they looked like forcing the issue. The conditions were near perfect in the WIT Arena as Antrim’s Paddy McAteer sent over the opening score inside a minute but by the 8th minute Waterford had taken the lead for the only time in the game with Jason Curry punishing a foul on clubmate Michael Curry from a free and Dylan Guiry, who had played an U-21 semi-final the previous day with his club, following up with a great point in the 8th minute. With Waterford withdrawing Paul Whyte as the primary ball carrier and playmaker going forward Antrim’s extra defender Peter Healy worked his way forward to send over the equalising point in the 15th minute and from that point on Antrim would never be headed again. Waterford continued to win good

possession going forward but letting Antrim off the hook as Jason Curry and Paul Whyte failed to find the target from good positions. There were signs, however, that the Antrim front line had the speed and confidence to put the Waterford defence under pressure and that proved to be the case when, in the 20th minute, Ryan Murray showed his pace when rounding his marker and giving Stephen Enright no chance with a clinical finish to the far corner of his net. Waterford’s Conor Murray replied immediately with a great individual point and there was some confusion as referee Sean Lonergan, who certainly did not endear himself to the Waterford bench or supporters, issued Paul Whyte with a significant yellow card for no obvious reason following consultation with his umpires. We had an exchange of points between Matthew Fitzpatrick and Joey Vealebut Waterford’s finishing was letting them down as Antrim made better use of their chances with late points from frees by Paddy McBride and Ryan Murray giving

their side a 1-5 to 0-4 cushion going into the second half. With J. J. Hutchinson coming into the Deise attack for Joey Veale at the start of the second half the home side received an early boost with Jason Curry sending over a free in the 37th minute. Minutes later however, the same player missed a chance to keep the pressure on the visitors when he shot wide from a good position following a foul on Hutchinson. Antrim took advantage to go five points clear with points from Sean Burke and Ryan Murray before a misdirected Antrim kick out went directly to Donie Breathnach who returned it over the bar in the 44th minute. Waterford were piling on the pressure at that stage but after Matthew Fitzpatrick sent over a point on the break for Antrim Paul Whyte received a second yellow card for an alleged high challenge. A point from a Jason Curry free kept Deise hopes alive as Kieran Power replaced Michael Curry, who was also on a yellow card, in midfield. In the 52nd minute parity in numbers was restored with

Antrim’s Sean Burke one of three players from each side on yellow cards, was dismissed on his second yellow. Waterford were still in with a chance but hopes were finally dashed in the 57th minute when big midfielder Niall McKeever started a move from outfield and then finished it with a lay off to his full forward Conor Murray who crashed the ball to the net off a defender from close range. Though Waterford battled on to secure late points from Kieran Power and J. J. Hutchinson further Antrim scores from McBride (F), Ryan Murray and Conor Murray had made victory for the ‘Saffrons’ assured. So, once again, Tom McGlinchey’s side face an uphill battle in their quest for promotion ahead of a daunting task against Laois in Portlaoise on Sunday next. In terms of gaining possession they were certainly a match for Antrim but they will have to be a bit more adventurous and willing to take chances in going for scores if they are to turn things around in the coming games.

Scorers – Antrim: Ryan Murray 1-3 (2Fs), Conor Murray 1-1, Paddy McBride 0-3 (Fs), Matthew Fitzpatrick 0-2, Paddy McAteer, Peter Healy and Sean Burke 0-1 each. Waterford: Jason Curry 0-3 (fs), Dylan Guiry, Conor Murray, Paul Whyte, Joey Veale, Donie Breathnach, Kieran Power and J. J. Hutchinson 0-1 each. Antrim: Chris Kerr, Peter Healy, Patrick Gallagher, Niall Delargy, Kevin O’Boyle, Mark Sweeney, James Laverty, Sean Burke, Niall McKeever, Stephen Beatty, Paddy McBride, Matthew Fitzpatrick, Conor Murray, Ryan Murray. Subs: Kristian Healy for Laverty (52), Odhran Eastwood for McBride and Rickey Johnston for Gallagher (63), Seanie McVeigh for McKeever and Ruari McCann for Beatty (68). Waterford: Stephen Enright, Brian Looby, Thomas O’Gorman, Ray O’Ceallaigh, James McGrath, Shane Ryan, Aidan Trihy, Tommy Prendergast, Michael Curry, Conor Murray, Donie Breathnach, Dylan Guiry, Jason Curry, Joey Veale, Paul Whyte. Subs: J. J. Hutchinson for Veale (h.t), Kevin Power for M. Curry (48), Jack Mullanney for Looby (57), Martin Scurry for Breathnach (60), Mark Cummins for Murray and Fergal O’Cuirin for Trihy (56). Referee: Sean Lonergan (Tipperary).

Allianz National Hurling League Division 1A Round 2

Second League defeat for hurlers Tipperary …………………...1-20; Waterford ………………..... 1-11. WATERFORD recorded a second successive defeat in Division 1A of the National Hurling League, losing out on this occasion to Munster rivals Tipperary at Semple Stadium. This defeat and a minus 16 in the score difference column sees Derek McGrath’s men rooted to the bottom of the League after two rounds. The Deise play Kilkenny at Walsh Park on February 18th at 2 p.m. who’ve also tasted two defeats from two outings thus far. Déise boss Derek McGrath has consistently said that winning this season’s league is not a priority and the starting team here saw 11 changes from the opening round defeat to Wexford with just six of the All-Ireland line-up from last September in last Saturday’s starting 15. Waterford played well in the opening 35 minutes, taking a onepoint lead into the break. However, their hosts were much improved after the change of ends.

The sides were level after Ferrybank’s Mark O’Brien finished a tremendous passing movement to the net after 47 minutes. Tipperary responded almost immediately with a goal of their own as Jason Forde netted from a penalty and with the outstanding Austin Gleeson also limping out of the game at the same stage; the momentum was now all with the Premier who went on to register a comfortable nine-point victory. Tipperary began brightly and led by 0-4 to 0-1 after 14 minutes. The visitors were warming to their task though on a bitterly cold night, hitting five points without reply from Patrick Curran (two frees), D. J. Foran and two from the excellent Mikey Kearney (0-6 to 0-4). Jason Forde replied, converting two more successful frees to level matters. Points from Kearney, Ian Kenny and a glorious effort from Austin Gleeson put the Déise three points up approaching the break. Jason Forde and Brian O’Halloran exchanges scores but

injury-time efforts from Sean Curran and Jason Forde left the home team somewhat flattered to trail by just one at the break (0-10 to 0-9) with Waterford hitting eight first half wides in comparison to Tipperary’s five. The second half was just seconds old when All-Star goalkeeper Stephen O’Keeffe had to be at his best to deny Paudie Feehan a certain goal with a great reflex save from close range. Jason Forde converted the resulting 65 to level the game on 10 points apiece. John McGrath, Noel McGrath and Forde again all pointed in succession as Tipperary looked far more energised after the break. After 47 minutes a great passing movement from Waterford finished with Patrick Curran finding an inrushing Mark O’Brien to crash the ball to the back of the Tipperary net to bring the sides level for a fifth time (1-10 to 0-13). The game changed in the 50th minute when Michael Breen was pulled to the ground inside the large parallelo-

gram by Ian Kenny after the Tipperary forward did well to latch onto a cross field pass from John McGrath. Referee Colm Lyons had no hesitation in awarding a penalty which Jason Forde, the former Nenagh CBS star, dispatched to the net. Tipperary then took complete control reeling off seven points in a row from the 51st to the 66th minute, including three from halfback Ronan Maher (1-19 to 1-10). It also required another top class save from O’Keeffe from Jason Forde to keep margin to single digits. 25 MINUTES WITHOUT A SCORE Waterford went a full 25 minutes without a single score before substitute Jamie Barron hit a point in injury time. Fittingly man-of-thematch Ronan Maher had the final score of the game with another long range point just before the final whistle. Tipperary’s Top Three: Ronan Maher, Jason Forde, Sean Curran.

Waterford’s Top Three: Mikey Kearney, Austin Gleeson, Stephen O’Keeffe. Observer’s Man of the Match: Ronan Maher. Number of Scorers: Tipperary 7. Waterford 7. Frees For: Tipperary 11. Waterord 10. Wides: Tipperary 15. Waterford 14. Score of the Match: Waterford’s 47th minute goal engineered by Patrick Curran and Mikey Kearney and executed by Mark O’Brien Scorers – Tipperary: Jason Forde (1-9; 0-6f, 1-0 pen, 0-1 65), Ronan Maher (0-4; 0-1 Sideline), Noel McGrath (0-2; 0-1 Sideline), Sean Curran (0-2), Michael Breen, John McGrath, and Brendan Maher (0-1 each). Waterford: Scorers: Patrick Curran (0-3f), Mikey Kearney (0-3), Mark O’Brien (1-0), D. J. Foran, Ian Kenny, Austin Gleeson, Brian O’Halloran and Jamie Barron (0-1 each).

Tipperary: Paul Maher; Alan Flynn, Tomas Hamill, Sean O’Brien; Joe O’Dwyer, Padraic Maher, Ronan Maher; Brendan Maher, Paudie Feehan; Dan McCormack, Noel McGrath, Sean Curran; Michael Breen, Jason Forde, John McGrath. Subs: Paul Shanahan for Dan McCormack (4 mins.), James Barry for Joe O’Dwyer (8), Patrick Maher for Paul Shanahan (57) and Cian Darcy for Sean Curran (69). Waterford: Stephen O’Keeffe; Shane Fives, Barry Coughlan, Ian Kenny; Kevin Moran, Austin Gleeson, Kieran Bennett; Stephen Roche, Colin Dunford; Brian O’Halloran, Mark O’Brien, D. J. Foran; Stephen Bennett, Patrick Curran, Mikey Kearney. Subs: Peter Hogan for Stephen Roche (18 mins.), Shane McNulty for Austin Gleeson (50), Jamie Barron for Mark O’Brien (54), Pauric Mahony for Colin Dunford (57) and Michael Walsh for Stephen Bennett (60). Referee: Colm Lyons (Cork).

GAA

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

Gaelic Jottings All-Ireland Champions Welcomed Home THE Halla in Main Street Ardmore was packed to capacity last Sunday night when the Parish’s hurling heroes were welcomed home with the All-Ireland Junior hurling cup. Everybody involved in this historic achievement were welcomed on stage individually to tremendous applause as the celebrations officially began in the seaside village. The celebrations continued during the week as the club basked in the feat of being the first Waterford team to win an All-Ireland club title. Ardmore’s win has delighted all local gaels and hopefully it will inspire other clubs in the County to follow suit in the years ahead.

Championship Fixtures THE C.C.C.C. at its meeting of February 1st made the following championship fixtures for 2018. The County senior hurling final is scheduled for Sunday, October 7th and its football counterpart for Sunday, October 14th. J. J. KAVANAGH & SONS COUNTY SENIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS 2018 Group A - Stradbally, Ardmore, Dungarvan, Portlaw. Group B The Nire, Clashmore/Kinsalebeg, Ballinacourty, Brickey Rangers. Group C - An Rinn, Kilrossanty, Rathgormack, Gaultier. Group A - Round 1 Stradbally v. Ardmore in Lemybrien on Saturday, 14th April at 7 p.m. Dungarvan v. Portlaw in Kill on Saturday, 14th April at 5.45 p.m. Round 2 Stradbally v. Portlaw in Kill on Saturday, 21st April at 3.45 p.m. Admore v. Dungarvan in Bushy Park on Saturday, 21st April at 3 p.m. Round 3 Weekend 15th July Stradbally v. Dungarvan; Ardmore v. Portlaw. Group B - Round 1 The Nire v. Clashmore/Kinsalebeg in Ardmore on Sunday, 15th April at 2.30 p.m. Ballinacourty v. Brickey Rangers in the Fraher Field on Sunday, 15th April at 6 p.m. Round 2 The Nire v. Brickey Rangers in the Fraher Field on Saturday, 21st April at 6 p.m. Clashmore/Kinsalebeg v. Ballinacourty in the Fraher Field on Saturday, 21st April at 7.30 p.m. Round 3 Weekend 15th July The Nire v. Ballinacourty Clashmore/Kinsalebeg v. Brickey Rangers. Group C - Round 1 An Rinn v. Kilrossanty in the Fraher Field on Sunday, 15th April at 7.30 p.m. Rathgormack v. Gaultier in Kill on Saturday, 14th April at 7.30 p.m. Round 2 An Rinn v. Gaultier in Kill on Saturday, 21st April at 5.30 p.m. Kilrossanty v. Rathgormack in the Fraher Field on Sunday, 22nd April at 2.30 p.m. Round 3 Weekend 15th July An Rinn v. Rathgormack; Kilrossanty v. Gaultier. J. J. KAVANAGH & SONS COUNTY SENIOR HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP 2018 Group A - Ballygunner, Abbeyside, Ballyduff Upper, An Rinn. Group B - De La Salle, Fourmilewater, Dungarvan, Tallow.

Group C - Lismore, Passage, Mount Sion, Roanmore. Group A - Round 1 Ballygunner v. Abbeyside in the Fraher Field on Sunday, 1st April at 3.30 p.m. Ballyduff Upper v. An Rinn in the Fraher Field on Saturday, 31st March at 4 p.m. Round 2 Ballygunner v. An Rinn in the Fraher Field on Sunday, 8th April at 7 p.m. Abbeyside v. Ballyduff Upper in the Fraher Field on Thursday, 5th April at 8 p.m. Round 3 Weekend 1st July Ballygunner v. Ballyduff Upper; Abbeyside v. An Rinn. Group B - Round 1 De La Salle v. Fourmilewater in the Fraher Field on Saturday, 31st March at 2.30 p.m. Dungarvan v. Tallow in Cappoquin on Saturday, 31st March at 6 p.m. Round 2 De La Salle v. Tallow in the Fraher Field on Sunday, 8th April at 2 p.m. Fourmilewater v. Dungarvan in the Fraher Field on Thursday, 5th April at 6.30 p.m. Round 3 Weekend 1st July De La Salle v. Dungarvan; Fourmilewater v. Tallow. Group C - Round 1 Lismore v. Passage in the Fraher Field on Sunday, 1st April at 2 p.m. Mt. Sion v. Roanmore in Walsh Park on Saturday, 31st March at 6 p.m. Round 2 Lismore v. Roanmore in the Fraher Field on Sunday, 8th April at 3.30 p.m. Passage v. Mt. Sion in Walsh Park on Saturday, 7th April at 6.15 p.m. Round 3 Weekend 1st July Lismore v. Mt. Sion; Passage v. Roanmore. Note: Except for Rounds 1 and 2 the above dates are provisional and are subject to the progression of the senior county teams. Under 21A Football: Quarter-Final - w/e March 11th: Comeragh Gaels v. Ballinacourty. Semi-Finals - w/e March 25th: The Nire v. Quarter-Final winners. Rathgormack v. Gaultier. Final: w/e April 29th. Junior B Football: commencing April 13th. Senior Football League: commencing March 3rd. Senior Hurling League: commencing March 18th. 2018 MINOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIPS DIVISION 1 Round 1 Ballinacourty v. De La Salle in Abbeyside on Sunday, 4th March at 11.30 a.m. An Gaeltacht v. Rathgormack in An Rinn on Sunday, 4th March at 11.30 a.m. Gaultier a bye. Round 2 Ballinacourty v. An Gaeltacht in Abbeyside on Sunday, 18th March at 11.30 a.m. Gaultier v. De La Salle in Gaultier on Sunday, 18th March at 11.30 a.m. Rathgormack a bye. Round 3 An Gaeltacht v. Gaultier in An Rinn on Wednesday, 28th March at 6.15 p.m. Rathgormack v. Ballinacourty in Rathgormack on Wednesday, 28th March 6.15 p.m. De La Salle a bye. Round 4 De La Salle v. An Gaeltacht in Gracedieu on Monday, 2nd April at 12 noon Rathgormack v. Gaultier in Rathgormack on Monday, 2nd April at 12 noon. Ballinacourty a bye. Round 5 Gaultier v. Ballinacourty in Gaultier on Tuesday, 17th April at 6.30 p.m. De La Salle v. Rathgormack in Gracedieu on Tuesday, 17th April at 6.30 p.m. An Gaeltacht a bye.

Division 2A Round 1 Tramore v. Clan na nGael in Abbeyside on Sunday, 4th March at 11.30 a.m. Portlaw/Ballyduff v. Kilrossanty in An Rinn on Sunday, 4th March at 11.30 a.m. St. Marys a bye. Round 2 Tramore v. Portlaw/Ballyduff in Abbeyside on Sunday, 18th March at 11.30 a.m. St. Mary’s v. Clan na nGael in Gaultier on Sunday, 18th March at 11.30 a.m. Kilrossanty a bye. Round 3 Portlaw/Ballyduff v. St. Marys in An Rinn on Wednesday, 28th March at 6.15 p.m. Kilrossanty v. Tramore in Rathgormack on Wednesday, 28th March at 6.15 p.m. Clan na nGael a bye. Round 4 Clan na nGael v. Portlaw/Ballyduff in Gracedieu on Monday, 2nd April at 12 noon. Kilrossanty v. St. Marys in Rathgormack on Monday, 2nd April at 12 noon. Tramore a bye. Round 5 St. Marys v. Tramore in Gaultier on Tuesday, 17th April at 6.30 p.m. Clan na nGael v. Kilrossanty in Gracedieu on Tuesday, 17th April at 6.30 p.m. Portlaw/Ballyduff a bye. Division 2B Round 1 St. Patricks v. Dungarvan in Colligan on Sunday, 4th March at 11.30 a.m. Cois Bhride v. St. Olivers in Tallow on Sunday, 4th March at 11.30 a.m. Ardmore a bye. Round 2 St. Patricks v. Cois Bhride in Colligan on Sunday, 18th March at 11.30 a.m. Dungarvan v. Ardmore in Dungarvan on Sunday, 18th March at 11.30 a.m. St. Olivers a bye. Round 3 Cois Bhride v. Ardmore in Tallow on Wednesday, 28th March at 6.15 p.m. St. Olivers v. St. Patricks in Ballinameela on Wednesday, 28th March at 6.15 p.m. Dungarvan a bye. Round 4 Dungarvan v. Cois Bhride in Dungarvan on Monday, 2nd April at 12 noon. Ardmore v. St. Olivers in Ardmore on Monday, 2nd April at 12 noon. St. Patricks a bye. Round 5 Ardmore v. St. Patricks in Ardmore on Tuesday, 17th April at 6.30 p.m. St. Olivers v. Dungarvan in Ballinameela on Tuesday, 17th April at 6.30 p.m. Cois Bhride a bye. Division 3A Round 1 St. Mollerans v. St. Saviours in Carrickbeg on Sunday, 4th March at 11.30 a.m. Ferrybank v. Mt. Sion in Ferrybank on Sunday, 4th March at 11.30 a.m. Round 2 Ferrybank v. St. Mollerans in Ferrybank on Sunday, 18th March at 11.30 a.m. St. Saviours v. Mt. Sion in Ballybeg on Sunday, 18th March at 11.30 a.m. Round 3 Mt. Sion v. St. Mollerans in Mt. Sion on Wednesday, 28th March at 6.15 p.m. St. Saviours v. Ferrybank in Ballybeg on Wednesday, 28th March at 6.15 p.m. Division 3B Round 1 Brickey Rangers v. Ballyduff Upper in Bushy Park on Sunday, 4th March at 11.30 a.m. Stradbally v. The Nire in Stradbally on Sunday, 4th March at 11.30 a.m. Clashmore/Kinsalebeg a bye. Round 2 Ballyduff Upper v. Stradbally in Ballyduff Upper on Sunday, 18th March at 11.30 a.m. Clashmore/Kinsalebeg v. Brickey Rangers in Clashmore on Sunday, 18th

Caroline Power with her sons Christopher and Daniel members of the Ardmore All-Ireland Club Junior Hurling championship winners at Croke Park after the game.[Sean Byrne//Deise Sport] March at 11.30 a.m. Round 3 Stradbally v. Clashmore/Kinsalebeg in Stradbally on Wednesday, 28th March at 6.15 p.m. The Nire v. Ballyduff Upper in Ballymacarbry on Wednesday, 28th March at 6.15 p.m. Brickey Rangers a bye. Round 4 Brickey Rangers v. Stradbally in Bushy Park on Monday, 2nd April at 12 noon. Clashmore/Kinsalebeg v The Nire in Clashmore on Monday, 2nd April at 12 noon. Ballyduff Upper a bye. Round 5 Ballyduff Upper v. Clashmore/Kinsalebeg in Ballyduff Upper on Tuesday, 17th April at 6.30 p.m. The Nire.v Brickey Rangers in Ballymacarbry on Tuesday, 17th April at 6.30 p.m. Stradbally a bye.

‘’We are in the Money’’ GATE receipts generated by both the football and hurling championships were up significantly in 2017. The GAA's annual financial statements show total revenue jumped by €5m to €65.6m last year. An additional 180,000 people attended matches in the All-Ireland series and that represents an increase of 22% in football and 29% for hurling matches. The football championship collected an extra €1.5m in gate receipts while the Liam MacCarthy Cup race saw a jump of €2.2m. In total, €35m was collected at the turnstiles. Mayo's replays at the AllIreland semi-final and quarter-final stages as well as the big crowds attracted by hurling counties like Wexford, Cork and Waterford would have been big contributory factors to this increase. Commercial revenue, meanwhile, is up to €19m from €17.9m in the previous year. "In terms of an overview of the year, the first thing to say is that it was a good year, a positive year, an encouraging year. It's always very heartening to be able to say that," the GAA's Director of Finance, Tom Ryan, when publishing the financial statements. "In terms of how we earned our €35 million in gate receipts and what that actually meant in terms of a return for the association as a whole, it's always interesting to look at where we're generating a return. "We had 350-odd matches over the course of this year and the lion's share of the €35 million revenue

is earned from eight to ten significant matches. "In terms of the net income out of the 350-odd games that are played, there are only just over 40 that generates any kind of a return. "So that in turn creates its own pressure. It means you've got to get everything right for those particular games at the tail-end of the season because they are the games that determined how you fare financially. "The other 300-plus games are equally important but they're not there to generate any money and are not judged by the amount of money they generate. "That means you've got to make as much as you can from the ones that do generate a return to safeguard the future of those other competitions." On the expenditure side, the Association distributed almost €15million to counties. Over €10 million was spent on games development and coaching, over €9 million on capital investment and grants, over €6 million on player welfare, over €12 million on match and competition costs, and over €10 million on administration. Dublin GAA received €1.2m in coaching grants with Cork coming in second place at €249,000. It was also revealed that the GAA has purchased a 50 acre farm in Naul, Co Dublin. It will be used to harvest a replacement sod for Croke Park and other pitches such as Abbotstown and Pairc Ui Chaoimh.

Scór Na Seachtaine DAVID Gartland’s 64th minute point for Ardmore to level the game in the All Ireland junior hurling final in Croke Park last Sunday.

Fraher Field Classics THIS week’s Fraher Field Classics, courtesy of the editor of the Dungarvan Observer and from the pen of John A. Murphy feature the Abbeyside and Dungarvan team captains and selectors of 50 years ago on the newspaper dated February 10th, 1968.

Sympathy THE Observer extends its sincere sympathy to the families of the following who died recently, Pat Foley, Ballyguiry; Maureen Kirwan, Kill; Fran Hyslop, McCarthyville; Patsy Fay, Ballycoe and P. J. Landers, Aglish.

GAA

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

Ballinacourty win in their ancestral home JJ Kavanagh and Sons County 2017 Under 21 ‘A’ Football Semi-Final Referee Paddy Smyth (Shamrocks) pictured with team captains Conor Gleeson (Nire) on left and John Elsted (Ballinacourty).

Ballinacourty ………………1-11; Nire ………………………...… 0-7. PRIOR to 1967, the year Abbeyside and Ballinacourty amalgamated, the latter were a football club with their sole identity and no doubt it didn’t go unnoticed to anyone still to the good from that era that last Saturday’s 2017 County under 21 ‘A’ football semi-final with Nire was played in their ancestral home, the field owned in days gone by, by the late Johnny Hogan and the green and white hooped team were captained by a local heritage name in the person of John Elsted, grandson and namesake of the original owner of the Gold Coast premises. This relatively new field, developed by former club player John McGrath boasts one of the best surfaces in the County and indeed the best at this time of the year. The day had its fitting ending for the locals when Dano Looby’s charges finished strongly to stake a place in the County final with their fitness and especially the tremendous

work by their defence in the second moiety against the wind eventually seeing off a stubborn Nire challenge. The key score came from the boot of the impressive David Looby in the 54th minute when he clinically finished a Neil Montgomery pass to the back of the net despite shifting a heavy tackle on route. Prior to this only goal of the hour, the score was 0-8 to 0-6 in favour of ‘Courty and once the goal went in, the winners added three more white flags via Stephen Cliffe, substitute Mikey Coleman and the game’s top scorer David Looby (f) to run out comfortable winners. Two evenly matched teams participated in this well contested encounter but Ballinacourty, who fielded without key player Conor Prunty, looked to have the edge in overall fitness perhaps because of their involvement in the hurling counter-part up to a few weeks ago. Sean Whelan Barrett opened the scoring with the first of his three match points from play followed by

David Looby’s initial successful free attempt. Jordan Ryan and Tom Barron settled Nire with equalising scores before Looby (f) and Whelan Barrett again found the target with leading scores. Ciaran Walsh secured Nire’s final point of the half before an Eoin Kiely attempt came back off the upright and John Elsted kicked a contender for score of the match. Ballinacourty led at the break by 0-5 to 0-3 but it should have been by a lot more as the winners were guilty of seven wayward efforts. The second half belonged to ‘Courty’s defence as they denied Nire attacks again and again. James Beresford did an amount of good work while confident and timely tackles by the Ballinacourty defenders denied Nire time and time again. The new half began with Shane Mullins making a brilliant one handed touch save from a superb effort by Sean Whelan Barrett before Ciaran Walsh and Shane O’Meara (f) levelled pro-

ceedings in the 37th minute for only the second match occasion, 0-5 to 0-5. James Beresford followed up with a timely block on a Dylan Guiry scoring attempt and overall in this period, Nire did not make any scoring use of a lot of possession. Tom Barron won a free at the end of the third quarter which Shane O’Meara converted but the final quarter belonged to ‘Courty, a period they won by 1-6 to 0-1. Good approach work by John Elsted and David Looby resulted in a pile driver over the bar by Sean Whelan Barrett and Looby, himself, regained the lead with 48 minutes on the clock, 0-7 to 0-6. The winners’ fitness was really kicking in now resulting with a score by Eoin Kiely from a Tom Looby pass while their defence were continually on top at the other end of the field. David Looby’s 54th minute goal was the defining score and the points that followed by Stephen Cliffe, Mikey Coleman and David

Looby gave John Elsted’s team a 0-8 victory, the margin of which didn’t look possible fifteen minutes earlier. Nire’s sole score in the last quarter was a point from play by Conor Gleeson in the 59th minute, who looked a threat when he was moved to the forwards late in the game and in hindsight, this could have been done earlier. DESERVING WINNERS One way or the other Ballinacourty are deservingly in the County final against Gaultier which should be played sooner rather than later and what a game that promises to be between these great modern day rivals. Ballinacourt’s Top Three: David Looby, John Elsted, Sean Whelan Barrett. Nire’s Top Three: Jake Mulcahy, Tholum Guiry, Ciaran Walsh. Observer’s Man of the Match: David Looby. Number of Scorers: Ballinacourty 6. Nire 5. Scores From Play: Ballinacourty 1-7. Nire 0-3.

Frees For: Ballinacourty 13. Nire 19. Wides: Ballinacourty 15. Nire 2. Score of the Match: Ballinacourty’s 54th minute goal engineered by Neil Montgomery and executed by David Looby. Scorers – Ballinacourty: David Looby 1-4 (4f), Sean Whelan Barrett 0-3, John Elsted, Eoin Kiely, Stephen Cliffe and Mikey Coleman 0-1 each. Nire: Ciaran Walsh 0-2 (1f), Shane O’Meara 0-2f, Jordan Ryan, Tom Barron and Conor Gleeson 0-1 each. Ballinacourty: Kevin Dwane; Cormac Dwyer, Conor McCarthy, Jack Duggan; Conor McCarthy, John Elsted, Darragh McGrath; James Beresford, Neil Montgomery; Tom Looby, David Looby, Sean Whelan Barrett; Stephen Cliffe, Sean Daly, Eoin Kiely. Subs: David Montgomery for Cormac Dwyer (38), Patrick Power for Sean Daly (48), Mikey Coleman for Eoin Kiely (61). Nire: Shane Mullins; Jack Guiry, Jake Mulcahy, Brendan Guiry; Tom Barron, Conor Gleeson, Liam Cooney; Tholum Guiry, Stephen Ryan; Ciaran Walsh, Dylan Guiry, Glen Cullinane; Jordan Ryan, Shane O’Meara, Ciaran Ryan. Referee: Paddy Smyth (Shamrocks).

LITTLEWOODS NATIONAL CAMOGIE LEAGUE ROUND 3

Slicker Kilkenny outfit overrun Waterford to go top of the league table Kilkenny ……………………1-14; Waterford …………………… 0-8. ALL-IRELAND runners-up Kilkenny overran Waterford with a slick attacking display on Sunday afternoon to put them top of the table. Ann Downey sent out ten players from the team that comprehensively beat Waterford in last June Championship match. Kilkenny came into the game with two comprehensive wins over Dublin and Clare. Waterford came into the game with a good win over Meath and a draw in a thriller encounter against Clare. Waterford’s panel was decimated for this third tie due to the illness of number of panel members forcing Donal O’Rourke to make a number of changes before the game. Kilkenny came into this game full of confidence and started the game at a very fast pace with Miriam Walsh registering their first point in the first minute of play. Two minutes later Julianne Malone registered her first score. Waterford struggled with the pace of the game but to their credit

Waterford battled hard and won a free on the fifth minute which Carton converted. Beth Carton continued to test the Kilkenny backs and on the seventh minutes Carton was awarded a penalty. Emma Kavanagh pulled off a great save and put Kilkenny on the attack again. Kilkenny won free which Ann Dalton converted on the eighth minutes. Kilkenny stormed into the game with point from Julieann Malone. The only goal of the game came on the eleventh minute from Grace O’Donnell. Katie Power put over another point for Kilkenny leaving the scoreline 1-05 to 0-01 on the fifteenth minute. Their fluid forward movement and accurate short passing created openings which caused many problems for the Waterford defence. Waterford upped their pace and finished strongly with three unanswered points by Beth Carton to leave the score at half time 1-06 to 0-04. In the second half Waterford got

off to the better start with Carton winning a free and converting it. This just left four between the teams. Kilkenny opened their scoring with scores coming from Denise Gaule and Aoife Doyle. Waterford had some great passages of play and whilst they got in the faces of the black and amber, they didn’t carry a sufficient attacking threat. On the twentienth minute of the second half Carton sent over another free leaving the scoreline 1-10 to 0-07. Donal O’Rourke rang in a number of changes in the last ten minutes giving debuts to Saoirse O’Brien, Abbie Dunphy and Sadie Mai Rowe. Kilkenny finished with a flurry of points from Miriam Walsh, Aoife Doyle and Denise Gaule. Niamh Rockett fired over a fantastic point in injury time and the final point of the game came from a free which Denise Gaule converted leaving the scoreline 1-14 to 0-08. The favourites Kilkenny were very impressive and led from start to finish with outstanding displays

from Grace Walsh, Aoife Doyle, Ann Dalton, Julieann Malone, Grace O’Donnell and Miriam Walsh. There were a lot of positives for Waterford with some very impressive individual performances. For Waterford Beth Carton, Mairead Power and Lorraine Bray all stood out. Waterford next game is against Dublin on the 18th of February in WIT Carrignore at 2 pm. This is a must win game for Waterford if they are to progress to the play-offs. Scorers for Kilkenny: Miriam Walsh 0-4 Denise Gaule 0-4 fs Grace O’Donnell 1-0, Julieann Malone 0-2 Ann Dalton 0-2fs, Aoife Doyle 0-1 Katie Power 0-1 Scorers for Waterford: Beth Carton 0-7 (5fs), Niamh Rockett 0-1. Kilkenny: Emma Kavanagh; Laura Murphy, Grace Walsh, Catherine Foley; Michelle Teehan, Colette Dormer, Roisin Phelan; Ann Dalton, Claire Phelan; Aoife Doyle, Julieann Malone, Katie Power; Jenny Clifford, Grace O’Donnell, Miriam Walsh, Davina

Tobin, Denise Gaule, Danielle, Lydia Phelan, Niamh Leahy, Aisling O’Farrell, Michelle Quilty Waterford: Brianna O’Regan; Mairead Power, Iona Heffernan, Jenny McCarthy; Aoife Landers, Claire Whyte, Shauna Fitzgerald, Lorraine Bray, Sibeal Harney, Orla Hickey, Deirdre Fahy, Niamh Rockett; Aisling Power, Beth Carton, Aine Power. Subs: Clara Griffin for Shauna Fitzgerald, Sadie Mai Rowe for Claire Whyte, Clare Murphy for Aine Power, Abbie Dunphy for Mairead Power, Saoirse O’Brien for Orla Hickey. Referee: Andrew Larkin WATERFORD CAMOGIE POST PRIMARY ALL-IRELAND SENIOR B SEMI-FINAL Best of luck to the Ursuline Waterford who take on the Abbey Community college in Ferrybank in the Senior B Semi-final on Saturday next. This is a local derby and promises to be a great game. Please come out and support our girls.

Venue and time to be confirmed. We will post up on Facebook and twitter as soon as venue and time are confirmed. WATERFORD UNDER 14 SCHOOL OF EXCELLENCE The Under 14 School of excellence continues next Saturday in WIT Carrignore at 1.30 p.m. and finishes at 4.15 p.m. Another great line-up is promised next week. ASHBOURNE COLLEGES Best of luck to all our County players and Club players who will play with their respective colleges next weekend. WATERFORD CAMOGIE OFFICE Waterford Camogie office is opened every day Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Our Office is located in Dungarvan Nissan. If you have any queries or want to get in contact with us please contact Tanya on 086 8113531 or John Flood on 087 6684474. You will also find us on Facebook and twitter.

AIB All-Ireland Club Junior Hurling Final

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

Supporting Ardmore in the AIB GAA All-Ireland Junior Club Hurling final in Croke Park were members of the Flavin, O'Brien and Walsh families. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport] Ardmore underage selection who played a Fethard selection during the interval pictured with their mentors. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

Supporting Ardmore in the AIB GAA All-Ireland Junior Club Hurling final in Croke Park.

[Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

The Ardmore Roar Supporting Ardmore in the AIB GAA All Ireland Junior Club Hurling final in Croke Park were Dominic, Natasha, Lilianne, Marianna and Oliver Broderick. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

A poem about Ardmore’s success The Ardmore Roar Ardmore is awake Excitement in her homes I feel the ground shake Euphoria in my bones Croke park beckoned, For the blue and white legion, Champions of Waterford, This magical region It began in reflection, Last September, Then came redemption, And a year to remember We marched through the county With many a test, Emerging victorious, Waterford’s best Pride restored, We set our eyes on Munster, Power and strength, All we could muster We charged on Limerick from the sunny south east, Our hurlers done the rick Another hurling feast Hurling talent, A gift from the skies, Flavin, Keatings, Gartlands, We watched our young players rise

Supporting Ardmore in the AIB GAA All Ireland Junior Club Hurling final in Croke Park were John, Sophie, Amelie [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport] and Eline Tobin with Joanne Fitzgerald and John Phelan.

Next was Bodyke, In Carriganore, Another step closer To hurling folklore,

We swarmed on Mallow, Like an Atlantic storm And just like that, Legends were born Down to 12 men, The miracle of Mallow But these men are giants, Impossible to follow Club legends, Hennessys, O’Donnells, Prendergasts, Munster title medals, Glory at last Ogham stones, monasteries, Hurling mastery, Another chapter in our glorious tapestry The village was hopping As we racked up the wins, Pints in the Tower, Debates in Quinns An All Ireland semi-final Against the men from Donegal Another victory, A four goal haul The primary schools were buzzing, Children screaming, Tactics on the street corner Old men dreaming St Declan looked down, A smile serene ‘Oh my God’ he said ‘What a team!’ We taught of those who passed,

Went on ahead, They whispered kindly ‘Keep the head’ We had a chance, a shot at National glory, For a club like ours, An incredible story Carrot fields were empty, The nets were taken in, Dublin called, the journey began Hurling in our hearts, Fire in the blood, We brought the rain, We brought the flood Storm clouds gathered In the darkening skies Starling murmurations Seagull cries With the strength of Sampson And the might of the Tower The storm was raging, In all its power The army was ready, We all had the fever, Our leaders were steady, Putin and Vladimir Vealer We went knockin’ We broke down the door And the place was rockin’ With the Ardmore roar Poems we are writing Songs we are singing The celebrations I feel Are only just beginning.

AIB All-Ireland Club Junior Hurling Final

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

Ardmore write themselves into the history books HEROES ALL … SUNDAY, February 4th will go down in the annals of the Ardmore GAA club as its most famous since the club was founded back in 1957. The sole surviving founding member from all of 61 years ago, Paddy Foley, was present in Croke Park with family members and all of the folks from Ardmore and Grange and genuine and appreciative support from other clubs in the County to witness something that could never have been realistically on the agenda of things to do at the very first meeting of Cumann Naomh Deaglain. However, it’s a reality in 2018. Ardmore are All Ireland Junior hurling champions, a fabulous feat that will rightly remain with this group of players forever. Some have given outstanding service to their club for decades and others are just starting out on their journey but what a way to begin it. Jack Walsh, inside in the goal, is an example of the latter. Youthful in years, he possessed a wise head on young shoulders on Sunday and he played like an experienced keeper of many campaigns. The Ardmore defence didn’t concede a green flag and they were inspirationally led by team captain Declan Prendergast, who with brother Seamus and other long serving stalwarts such as Niall, Richie and Wayne Hennessy have rounded off unstinting service to the Ardmore club with the ultimate prize, an All Ireland medal. Both corner backs Daniel Power and Niall Hennessy were part and parcel of denying their opposition goals in the past two games and not forgetting James O’Donnell who manned the key position between the posts and kept a clean sheet in the semi final against

Setanta, 4-12 to 0-13. Seamus Keating is the young kid on the block in the centre of defence and his influence on games has been of huge assistance in bringing home this year’s titles. Wing back Richie Hennessy kept the best wine until last and his defending and high catches in the past two games will remain long in the memory. On the other flank, Gavin Williams is arguably the most improved player on the team, he went about his defending in business like fashion all year and provided superb cover for the full line behind him. A main stay of the team all year has been the midfield pairing of Wayne Hennessy and Kenny Murphy. Their work rate is phenomenal and both can be found regularly helping out either in defence or up front. When last Sunday’s victory will be recalled and told to future generations of Ardmore around warm winter fires, David Gartland’s equalising point will be always spoken off. In times to come it will be said that sliotar stayed in the air for a full minutes before dissecting the posts and unleashing one of the loudest cheers in Croke Park ever. On his left, Michael Cronin deserved to be part of this historic achievement and not be exiled in New Zealand and learning of this historic feat second hand. On his opposite wing, Sean Barron reserved his best display of the year for Croke Park, he had a hand in one of the goals and his work rate never faltered. Former County player Seamus Prendergast is still the main man up front. He scored yet another goal on Sunday while his other

Ardmore players celebrate following the final whistle.

contribution of 0-8 (7f) was vital in realising his club’s winning ambition. What a year it has been for James Flavin. Awarded young hurler of the year in Waterford for 2017, he now has a cherished All Ireland medal to rest beside this trophy and his scoring contribution all year from goals and points and his partnership with Seamus Prendergast has proven ominous for all opposition. John Gartland scored some vital points during the year when games were in the melting pot but they will pale in significance now with his brace of goals in Croke Park. It is what he will be remembered for, it’s as clear as that. A successful team needs a good bench and in this regard Ardmore were not found wanting. Stephen Keating helped make the winning goal, Kieran Conway was a revelation when introduced in defence and his goal in Limerick will not be forgotten, while James Kennedy was a capable replacement for the second half in attack. Eoghan O’Shea’s long distance point in the Western final has now extended to 100 metres plus while Eoin Conway, the long serving Cathal Hennessy and Alan Stenson have also seen championship action. Part and parcel of the Ardmore effort this year have been Tommy Power, Joe Murphy, Dylan Troy, John O’Brien and Christopher Power and they too have been rewarded with a precious All Ireland medal. MANAGEMENT TEAM Team trainer Wayne Power from Ballyduff Upper will be retyping his trainer’s CV and up on top now will be a heading that few can match, ‘’All Ireland Winning Trainer.’’ Team manager Tom Cronin has

[Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

been cool, calm and collective all year and a steady influence on the championship effort while club stalwarts Declan Hennessy, Jay Prendergast and Frankie North have had their lifelong efforts of unselfish service to the club rewarded with the ultimate honour. Similarly, Noel Conway has been down the trenches this year as joint club chairman and secretary, an arduous task no doubt and his efforts have also been rewarded with this glorious success. The club has also been fortunate to have had a committed group of backroom workers during the course of this long season and their hours behind the scenes have also been rewarded with seeing their charges winning a famous Celtic Cross. Unfortunately, Sunday’s historic achievement has come too late for a number of others that were always associated with the Ardmore club. St. Peter, no doubt, had his hands full with Jim Lane’s bagpipes on Sunday evening last leading a parade inside the pearly gates including persons, who, no doubt were remembered on the trip home from Croke Park, such as former chairmen Michael and Joe O’Brien, Sean Hennessy, Liam Lincoln and Tom Morrissey, Dr. Joe Meehan, Jim Moloney, the founding members of the club, earlier generations and many more. Whoever came up with the idea of organising these club championships in recent years has done not only the GAA a great service but parishes all over the Country and hopefully more clubs in the Déise County can experience days out such as Ardmore, Ballysaggart, Cappoquin and Modeligo etc, in recent years. Heroes All.

President of the GAA Aogán Ó Fearghaíl presents the AIB GAA All-Ireland Junior Club Hurling Cup to Ardmore's Captain Declan Prendergast. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

Supporting Ardmore, Manager Tom Cronin celebrates with Jay Prendergast, Declan Hennessy, Wayne Power and Frankie North at the final whistle. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

President of the GAA Aogán Ó Fearghaíl presents the AIB Man of the Match Award to Seamus Prendergast. Included [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport] is Stephen Frampton, AIB.

12 & 13

AIB All-Ireland Club Junior Hurling Final

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

Ardmore, AIB GAA All-Ireland Junior Club Hurling Champions 2017. Back Row: Left to right: Gavin Williams, Sean Barron, Seamus Keating, Seamus Prendergast, John Gartland, Declan Prendergast (Capt.), Kenny Murphy, James Flavin, Eoghan O’Shea, Dylan Troy, Daniel Power, James O’Donnell, Alan Stenson, Christopher Power. Front Row: Left to right: David Gartland, James Kennedy, Kieran Conway, Stephen Keating, Joe Murphy, Michael Cronin, Jack Walsh, Cathal Hennessy, Eoin Conway, Wayne Hennessy, Tommy Power, Niall Hennessy, Richie Hennessy. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

Ardmore are All-Ireland Champions Ardmore …………………….......... 3-11; St. Mogues Fethard………............ 0-18. (After extra-time) ON many occasions history has been made in famed Croke Park over the years and it occurred once again on Sunday last when Ardmore Junior hurlers became the first Waterford side to win an All-Ireland club title. The Déise seasiders have gone where no other club in the County has gone before and their dogged persistence against a very good Wexford team edged them into the winner’s enclosure after 85 heart beat raising minutes of hurling. Ardmore’s goose looked plucked at the end of normal time when Mark Wallace edged Fethard in front in the first of the ‘’at least’’ two minutes of added time with yet another pointed free following which James Flavin’s pointed effort drifted wide. From the puck-out Seamus Keating burst through the centre of the field with an equalising score his only agenda but referee Shane Hynes from Galway whistled him up for over carrying the ball. This looked like it was going to be the final play in this very evenly fought encounter but play carried on after the free and Ardmore captain and Declan Prendergast inspirationally fielded a long delivery out of the sky and earned a free out. One thought the final whistle would sound on the striking of this free but Fethard introduced a 63rd minute substitute and play continued.

Cometh the hour and cometh the man in the person of David Gartland who had not scored up to this point but as the game entered the 64th minute he struck what only can be described as the most important score ever in the 61 year old history of Naomh Deaglain when he lofted over a truly inspirational equalising score. The sliotar, struck from a distance over his shoulder, seemed to hang in the air for an eternity, with every man, woman and child in Croke Park wondering was it going to drop short but it sailed over the black spot in due course and Ardmore had received a precious lifeline. This tension filled final had a look of a draw about it for a long time. The difference at the end of the day was the three goals scored by the winners. Fethard were able to cope with conceding the first two but the third in the second minute of the second period of extra time proved to be a bridge too far for a gallant losing outfit. The Leinster champions then had opportunities to draw and indeed win the game but they shot two scoreable wides via Garrett Foley and Michael Dwyer in the 77th and 78th minutes while in the final play of the 80 minutes substitute Bryan Power’s goal effort went harmlessly wide. Ardmore’s forte all year has been their ability to raise green flags and in doing so again on this occasion, it won for them a cherished All Ireland title.

Seamus Prendergast had the easy task of finishing the first one to the net as early as the 12th minute while two goal hero John Gartland came up trumps in the 37th minute and that vital one in extra- time. Gartland showed commendable composure to finish both to the back of the net and he and elder statesman Seamus Prendergast’s efforts exposed once again Fethard’s tendancy to leak major scores. At the other end of the field the inability of the Wexford side to raise a green flag of their own brought the ultimate cost but there was no way past a Declan Prendergast led defence while goalie Jack Walsh justified his recall after suspension and, apart from his assured play throughout, his 10th minute save at the expense of a point from Michael Dwyer was a key moment in the game. Fethard scored a fine tally of 0-18, the same as in the semi-final against Slyne of Galway but the inability to raise a flag of a different colour brought the ultimate penalty down on them. Every man, woman and child from Ardmore must have been in Dublin on Sunday last while support from other Waterford clubs such as Shamrocks, Modeligo, Geraldines, Clashmore / Kinsalebeg, Stradbally, Brickeys, Fourmilewater, Dungarvan, Kill and Ballyduff Upper were also in the Blue corner. Photographer Sean Byrne caught the occasion on camera and the fruit of

his work will no doubt adorn many an Ardmore home forever. Finiky refereeing stopped any real flow to the game and it bursting into life with Ardmore conceding 30 frees during the course of the 80 minutes and Fethard 18. Centre forward Mark Wallace accounted for 0-14 (13f, 1’65’) of the Leinster champion’s tally with just four of their flags coming from play. On the other hand, Ardmore struck 3-4 from play with their remaining seven points the result of frees taken by Seamus Prendergast. Here again the three goals stand out as the difference between the teams. Prendergast opened the scoring in the 3rd minute and it took Fethard all of eight minutes to open their account with a similar type score from Mark Wallace. Influential midfielder John Tubritt edged Fethard in front from play and with ten minutes played, they had laid down a serious challenge to Ardmore with Michael Dwyer’s goal effort being directed over the bar by Jack Walsh, 0-3 to 0-1. The men in blue received a timely and needed boost 12 minutes in when Seamus Keating’s long range free was not dealt with by the Fethard defence and Seamus Prendergast made them pay the ultimate with a tap-in type goal. Frees were exchanged before Wallace levelled proceedings in the 18th minute at 1-2 to 0-5 as Fethard had quickly negated Ardmore’s goal.

Ardmore enjoyed a mini scoring purple patch at the end of the half via the two Seamuses, Keating and Prendergast (f), but the concession of their tenth free in this moiety left just 0-1 the difference at the short whistle on a scoreboard reading 1-4 to 0-6. Wallace’s freetaking was a feature of the final and 32 minutes in, he had the teams level for the fourth occasion. Prendergast replied similarly and then Ardmore opened some daylight between the sides when Sean Barron, who played a great final, passed from the endline to John Gartland in the 37th minute, the latter steadying himself commendably before lashing the sliotar into the back of the net, 2-5 to 0-7. Fethard’s pedigree continued to shine though, they kept Ardmore scoreless from this point until the 54th minute, a spell of seventeen minutes and from play from the 37th to the 64th. Also very importantly, Lorcan Barden’s charges were back on level terms by the 48th minute per points by Mark Wallace, 3f, and an equalising point from play by midfielder and team captain Garrett Foley. Fethard were clearly the better team at this stage and it took a Seamus Prendergast pointed free to end Ardmore’s scoring drought but Wallace (f) had the sides level for the sixth time one minute later at 2-6 to 0-12. Another Prendergast pointed free restored Ardmore’s lead in the 56th minute

but the Ardmore support weren’t getting carried away as Fethard still looked to be in the ascendancy. Pointed frees by Wallace in the 59th and in the 61st minutes confirmed this before David Gartland threw the seasiders a lifeline with his heroic late late equalising point, 2-8 to 0-14. Fethard had one hand on the cup prior to Gartland’s point but the equalising score deflated them at the start of extratime and Ardmore took full advantage of being still in contention when all seemed lost as they struck three unanswered scores by the 67th minute via Seamus Prendergast 0-2 (1f) and David Gartland, 2-11 to 0-14. Just when it looked as Fethard would end the first period of extra time scoreless, Mark Wallace’s goal effort was sent out for a ‘65’ which he converted and this point settled the Wexford outfit for the second ten and final minutes, 2-11 to 0-15. A 71st minute Michael Dwyer point from play left the minimum between the teams but the defining score of this final arrived one minute later when substitute Stephen Keating, on receipt of the sliotar from David Gartland made a driving run along the endline for goal before the other Gartland, John, continued Ardmore’s record of raising green flags all year, this one the most crucial, Ardmore’s third and his second. The Munster champions now had one

hand on the cup on a score of 3-11 to 0-16 with eight minutes left to play before Fethard loosened that grip with points by Wallace (f) and wing forward Edmund Power in the 74th and 75th minutes before missing three scoreable opportunities either side of a sideline wide by Seamus Keating in the 80th minute. The final whistle sounded after one minute of added time as Ardmore entered the history books as All Ireland champions and winners of four cups in the season, Western, County, Munster and the one that has never been claimed up to this by any Waterford club, the ALL IRELAND. PRESENTATION Uachtaran of the GAA Aoghán Ó Fearghaíl presented the Ardmore captain Declan Prendergast with the winning trophy in the presence of the AIB Man of the Match Seamus Prendergast and Michael Hennessy. Ardmore’s Top Three: Seamus Prendergast, Declan Prendergast, Jack Walsh. Fethard’s Top Three: Mark Wallace, Michael Dwyer, John Tubritt. Observer’s Man of the Match: Seamus Prendergast. Number of Scorers: Ardmore 4. Fethard 4. Scores From Play: Ardmore 3-4. Fethard 0-4. Frees For Ardmore: 18. Fethard 18. Wides: Ardmore 8. Fethard 8.

Score of the Match: David Gartland’s 64th minute equalising score for Ardmore. Scorers: Ardmore: Seamus Prendergast 1-8 (7f), John Gartland 2-0, David Gartland 0-2, Seamus Keating 0-1. Fethard-On-Sea: Mark Wallace 0-14 (12f, 1 ‘65’), Michael Dwyer 0-2, Garrett Foley and Edmund Power 0-1 each. Ardmore: Jack Walsh; Niall Hennessy, Declan Prendergast, Daniel Power; Gavin Williams, Seamus Keating, Ritchie Hennessy; Kenny Murphy, Wayne Hennessy; Sean Barron, David Gartland, Michael Cronin; James Flavin, Seamus Prendergast, John Gartland. Substitutes: James Kennedy for Cronin (HT); Kieran Conway for Power (43); Stephen Keating for Wayne Hennessy (70); Michael Cronin for Kennedy (74); Wayne Hennessy for Williams (80). St. Mogue’s Fethard: Sean Foley; Martin Power, Ruairi Tubrid, Daniel Mullan; Richard Waters, Kevin Rowe, Joe Sutton; Garrett Foley, John Tubritt; Edmund Power, Mark Wallace, Daire Barden; Ciaran Dwyer, Graham O’Grady, Michael Dwyer. Substitutes: Darren Foley for O’Grady (43), Bryan Power for Tubritt (49), Brian O’Donoghue for Edmund Power (64), Edmund Power for O’Donoghue (70), Graham O’Grady for Ciaran Dwyer (70). Referee: Shane Hynes (Galway)

Ardmore Captain Declan Prendergast holds the All-Ireland Junior Hurling Cup high following the presentation. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

AIB All-Ireland Club Junior Hurling Final

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

Supporting Ardmore in the AIB GAA All Ireland Junior Club Hurling final in Croke Park were Garth Williams, Keith Hurley and Charlie Troy. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

Supporting Ardmore in the AIB GAA All Ireland Junior Club Hurling final in Croke Park were Nonie, Dameon, Josh, Poppy and Jacob Rixs. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

Supporting Ardmore in the AIB GAA All Ireland Junior Club Hurling final in Croke Park were Liam, Saoirse and Mochara Fraher with Catherine O'Sullivan. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

Supporting Ardmore in the AIB GAA All Ireland Junior Club Hurling final in Croke Park were Seamus, Mary Jo, Laoise, Neasa and Eoin Keevers. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport

Supporting Ardmore in the AIB GAA All Ireland Junior Club Hurling final in Croke Park were members of the Walsh [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport] family.

Supporting Ardmore in the AIB GAA All Ireland Junior Club Hurling final in Croke Park were Gareth Williams with Emily, Jack, Kate and Anna Hennessy. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

Supporting Ardmore in the AIB GAA All Ireland Junior Club Hurling final in Croke Park were Claire, Billy and Tommy Byrne, Killian Ryan and Paddy Joe Ryan. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

AIB All-Ireland Club Junior Hurling Final

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

“GLORY GLORY ARDMORE GAA” Congratulations to the team on their historic win in the All-Ireland Club Hurling Championship – from all at –

O’Connell’s Agri of Glenlickey & Jamie Hurley

Quinn’s Foodstore YOU DEFINE PASSION AND DEDICATION. YOU HAVE DONE THE COMMUNITY AND COUNTY PROUD. ENJOY THE CELEBRATIONS!

Ardmore Goalkeeper Jack Walsh with family after the match.

[Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

Congratulations to the Ardmore Hurling team on being crowned the AIB All-Ireland Club Junior Hurling Champions on Sunday last.

Supporting Ardmore in the AIB GAA All Ireland Junior Club Hurling final in Croke Park were Ashling, Jamie and Emily Prendergast and Mandy Kelly. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

Minute by minute account of all-Ireland Club Hurling finals

Supporting Ardmore in the AIB GAA All-Ireland Junior Club Hurling final in Croke Park were Anthony, Marie Therese, John and Ella O'Brien. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

Supporting Ardmore in the AIB GAA All Ireland Junior Club Hurling final in [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport] Croke Park were members of the Keane family.

FIRST HALF 1. Mark Wallace wide with ‘65’. 2. Seamus Prendergast wide free. 3. Seamus Prendergast Pointed free.. 0-1 to 0-0. 6. Mark Wallace short free to Garrett Foley, wide. 6. Kenny Murphy wins free. 7. Seamus Prendergast wide free. 7. Michael Dwyer wins free. 8. Mark Wallace pointed free..0-1 to 0-1 8. Mark Wallace wide free. 9. Mark Wallace point from play.. 0-1 to 0-2. 10. Save by Jack Walsh from Michael Dwyer, point..0-1 to 0-3. 12. Seamus Prendergast goal..1-1 to 0-3. 13. Good defending Ardmore, free won. 13. Michael Cronin fouled from Jack Walsh delivery. 14. Seamus Prendergast wide free. 15. Sean Barron yellow carded. 15. Mark Wallace pointed free.. 1-1 to 0-4. 16. Seamus Prendergast wins Free 16. Seamus Prendergast pointed free.. 1-2 to 0-4. 17. Richie Hennessy catch. Wins free. 18. Gavin Williams concedes free. 18. Mark Wallace pointed free.. 1-2 to 0-5. 19. John Gartland wide. 21. David Gartland wide from quick free by Seamus Keating. 22. Seamus Keating wide. 23. John Gartland wins ‘65’. 24. Seamus Prendergast wide with ‘65’. 25. Seamus Keating point.. 1-3 to 0-5. 25. Richie Hennessy catch. 26. Richie Hennessy catch. 26. Wayne Hennessy wins free. 26. Seamus Prendergast pointed free.. 1-4 to 0-5. 27. Seamus Prendergast overcarrying. 30. Mark Wallace pointed free. . 1-4 to 0.6. 30. One minute added time announced. SECOND HALF 31. James Kennedy for Michael Cronin. 31. Niall Hennessy concedes free. 32. Mark Wallace pointed free.. 1-4 to 0-7 33. Seamus Prendergast concedes free. 34. David Gartland wins free. 35. Seamus Prendergast pointed free.. 1-5 to 0-7. 35. Edmund Power wins free. 36. Mark Wallace wide with free. 37. John Gartland goal.. 2-5 to 0-7. 38. Seamus Prendergast ball of ground. 39. Mark Wallace wide with free. 40. Ciaran Dwyer wide with free. 41. Declan Prendergast catch. 41. Kenny Murphy concedes free. 42. Mark Wallace pointed free.. 2-5 to 0-8. 43. Wide Sean Barron. 43. Kieran Conway for Daniel Power. 44. Richie Hennessy concedes free. 44. Mark Wallace pointed free.. 2-5 to 0-9.

45. Kenny Murphy wins free. 47. Seamus Prendergast wide from play. 47. Declan Prendergast fouls ball. 48. Mark Wallace pointed free.. 2-5 to 0-10. 48. Garrett Foley point.. 2-5 to 0-11. 49. Fethard. Bryan Power for John Tubrid (inj.). 50. Seamus Keating wide. 51. Richie Hennessy catch. 53. Seamus Prendergast wins free. 54. Seamus Prendergast pointed free.. 2-6 to 0-11. 54. Gavin Williams concedes free. 55. Mark Wallace pointed free.. 2-6 to 0-12. 56. James Flavin wins free.. 2-7 to 0-12. 57. Catch Jack Walsh. 58. Niall Hennessy concedes free. 59. Mark Wallace pointed free.. 2-7 to 0-13. 60. Mark Wallace short free to Garrett Foley, wide. 60. Kenny Murphy concedes free. 60. Two added minutes announced. +1. Mark Wallace pointed free.. 2-7 to 0-14. +2. James Flavin wide. +2. Seamus Keating overcarrying. +3. Declan Prendergast wins free. +3. Fethard Bryan O’Donoghue for Edmund Power. +4. David Gartland point.. 2-8 to 0-14. EXTRA-TIME....FIRST HALF 32 secs. Seamus Prendergast point.. 2-9 to 0-14. 55 secs. Kenny Murphy wins free. 61. Seamus Prendergast wide free. 62. Darren Foley wide Fethard. 64. Kenny Murphy wins free. 65. Seamus Prendergast pointed free.. 2-10 to 0-14. 66. Mark Wallace wins free. 67. Fethard scoring chance. 67. David Gartland point from Sean Barron pass.. 2-11 to 0-14. 69. Mark Wallace shot on goal, ‘65’. 69. Mark Wallace pointed ‘65’.. 2-11 to 0-15. 69. Stephen Keating for Wayne Hennessy. 69. Class defending Kieran Conway. 69. Wide David Gartland . EXTRA-TIME....SECOND HALF Fethard subs. Edmund Power for Bryan O’Donoghue. Graham O’Grady for Ciaran Dwyer. 71. Michael Dwyer point.. 2-11 to 0-16. 72. John Gartland goal.. 3-11 to 0-16. 73. Gavin Williams concedes free. 73. Michael Cronin for James Kennedy. 74. Mark Cahill pointed free.. 3-11 to 0-17. 75. Edmund Power point.. 3-11 to 0-18. 77. Garrett Foley wide Fethard. 78. Michael Dwyer wide Fethard. 79. Wayne Hennessy for Gavin Williams. 80. Seamus Keating wide sideline puck. 80. One minute added time announced. +1. Bryan Power wide with Fethard goal attempt. 81. Final Whistle.. 3-11 to 0-18.

GAA

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

Supporting Ardmore in the AIB GAA All-Ireland Junior Club Hurling final in Croke Park were Pat, Ber and Billy Harty. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

Supporting Ardmore in the AIB GAA All-Ireland Junior Club Hurling final in Croke Park were Claire, Eddie, Rachel and Eamonn Flavin. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

Affane/Cappoquin

Supporting Ardmore in the AIB GAA All-Ireland Junior Club Hurling final in Croke Park were Patrick, Sarah and Sadie Prendergast. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

Supporting Ardmore in the AIB GAA All-Ireland Junior Club Hurling final in Croke Park. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

Former Ardmore players from the sixties Paddy Carleton and Maurice Colbert at Croke Park last Sunday.

Supporting Ardmore in the AIB GAA All-Ireland Junior Club Hurling final in Croke Park. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

Supporting Ardmore in the AIB GAA All-Ireland Junior Club Hurling final in Croke Park [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

Supporting Ardmore in the AIB GAA All-Ireland Junior Club Hurling final in Croke Park. [Sean Byrne//Deise Sport]

INTER-COUNTY SEASON TICKETS The 2018 GAA Season tickets are now available to be purchased. This ticket grants holders access to all Allianz League Matches including play-offs, semi-finals and finals. The price of this ticket for adults is €120 and for u-16’s is €30. There is also a second option of Club+ available where the holder will be granted access to all Club Championship games in your county. The cost of this ticket for adults is €200. See gaa.ie/seasonticket for more information. LAST MAN STANDING With 250 entrants going to post for week 1 of Last Man Standing there were 90 fallers at the first obstacle and almost 60 at the second as we approach week 3 there are just over a hundred still standing. Again a big thanks to our sponsors Bookmaker Noel Cummins and Jacinta Uniacke of Munster Signs and Print for coming up trumps again. Please get your selections into Last Man Standing co-ordinator Eamonn Costin 087 9591651 for week 3 as soon as possible. THREE TO ANSWER 1, When did Wexford last win the National Hurling League? 2, Who is the Ballyragget centre half back with the same name as a former gaffer of the Republic of Ireland soccer team? 3, Who were the first Waterford club to play in an All Ireland hurling final? LAST WEEK’S ANSWERS 1, Jack Lynch, Cork is the only player in hurling or football to win six All Ireland championships in consecutive years. 2, Wexford’s Liam Ryan and Kevin Foley play for the Rapparees, Enniscorty. 3, Kevin Martin is the manager of the Offaly senior hurling team. ARDMORE CROWNED AIB ALL-IRELAND CLUB JUNIOR HURLING CHAMPIONS Congratulations to all involved with Ardmore who battled to a dramatic extra-time victory over Fethard, St. Mogues in an utterly absorbing All-Ireland Junior Club Hurling Final in Croke Park last Sunday. CLUB LOTTO MONDAY 5th FEBRUARY Jackpot €7,400. Numbers drawn out were: 1, 6, 19, 24. No winner. Consolation €20 winners were: Trish Veale, Affane Hunter; Mag Burke, c/o The Central Bar; Bridget Murray, Main St.; Aaron O’Sullivan, Moneygorm and Pat Egan, Greystones.

Stradbally Please like and share these notes to help us grow our reach CLUB SOCIAL Our Club Social which will take place in the Park Hotel on Saturday, 10th February where we our Senior footballers will be presented with their county medals by a special guest. This is a social event not just for players but for the whole community so why not come along and enjoy a night out with neighbours and friends. Music on the night will be provided by Fuse, Tickets cost €30. Tickets can be purchased from George Walsh, Tom Cunningham, Breda Kiely and Edel Curran, please feel free to contact the club on our club phone 087 1165549 to reserve your tickets. WINTER LEAGUE 2018 The Winter league for 3rd to 6th class pupils, will commence on Thursday, 15th February and registration will take place at 5.30 pm on the night for those taking part. The code of ethics will be presented on the night to all the parents on the night. JUVENILE NEWS Training for the majority of our underage won’t commence for a few weeks yet but we have some groups have commenced. 3 and 4-year-old play group - This week saw a huge turnout at our very popular 3 & 4-year-old group in Sallyfort Farm, with over 25 children participating in fun and games a great time was had by all. This group continues this Thursday at 6 pm and everybody is welcome to attend. Please spread the word so we can grow this group and ensure that our future is secure. The club would like to thank Dermot and Pearl O’Brien for hosting this group.

Under 7’s - We are now adding a further group for Under 7’s on Friday night at 5.45 pm in Sallyfort Farm. This group are participating in a series of upcoming indoor blitzes, the next of which is on Saturday, 10th February at 11.50 am in Ballygunner Gaa Centre. All players are asked to be in the center for 11.40. This group played their first blitz of the year last Saturday in Carriganore and all players represented the club with great pride, it is great to see the next generation starting out on a journey which will lasts a lifetime and will develop them as people and play a large part in their lives for many years to come. We appreciate all the parents who commit to bring their children regularly and we hope that they see the benefits GAA has for their children’s social and physical development. Further blitzes for this group take place on: 3rd and 10th March Football. ADULT NEWS Minor Football - Our Minors commence their championship campaign on the 4th of March, the fixtures are as follows; Round 1 – Stradbally V Nire on Sunday, 4th March at 11.30 am in Stradbally. Round 2 – Stradbally V Ballyduff Upper on Sunday, 18th March at 11.30 am in Ballyduff Upper. Round 3 – Stradbally V Clashmore Kinsale Beg on Wednesday, 28th March at 6.15 pm in Stradbally. Round 4 – Stradbally V Brickey Rangers on Monday, 2nd April at 12 noon in Bushy Park. Senior Football - The Senior Football League commences on the 3rd March, details will be published once we receive the fixtures. We have received the fixtures for the first two rounds of the County Championship; Round 1 – Stradbally V Ardmore on Saturday, 14th April at 7 pm in Lemybrien. Round 2 – Stradbally V Portlaw on Saturday, 21st pril at 3.45 pm in Kill. NEW CLUB PHONE NUMBER Stradbally GAA has a new phone number which is 087 1165549 and if anyone wishes to make contact. MEMBERSHIP Membership is now due and this year we are asking all our players past and present, supporters and parents of our juveniles to consider becoming members of our club in 2018. Money from membership helps us to meet a lot of the cost associated with running the club. It is easier than ever to pay your membership, you just have to log onto our website www.stradballygaa.com and pay your membership online from your phone or any computer. Membership rates for 2018 are: Adult Member; €70; OAP; €50; Student / Underage; €40, 2nd child in family €30, and every subsequent child €20. If people wish to pay their membership in person they can contact membership officer John Halpin (087-9776018). John Halpin will be collecting membership every Sunday night at the GAA Social Centre between 9.30 pm and 10.30 pm. LADIES NOTES MEDAL PRESENTATION The medal presentation is on Friday, 9th February at 7:30 p.m. in the clubhouse. Hope to see everyone there. The All Ireland U-16 ladies medal presentation took place on Friday, 2nd February in the Gold Coast Hotel at 7:30 p.m. Stradbally were well represented and it was great to see our own club members Roisin Dunphy and Chloe Fennell pick up U-16 Waterford player of the year and U-18 Waterford player of the year. The Stradbally Ladies GAA club is registered with the LIDL Jersey Competition and are seeking the support of all our members to log onto the LIDL website or visiting their Facebook page and give a reason why the Stradbally Ladies team should win the set of jerseys. 50:50 Draw - Congratulations to Raymond Keane who won the last 50:50 draw of €285. The next draw takes place on Sunday, 11th February 2018. Remember if you are not in you can't win! Field Signs - We will be making a big drive this year for businesses to put up field Signs. This will be a great opportunity for businesses to advertise their products and services. Contact Virgil Power (Alaska) on 087-7797401 for more details. CONGRATULATIONS All associated with Stradbally GAA club would like to congratulate Ardmore GAA Club following their historic win in the All Ireland final last week over St. Mogue’s Fethard (Wexford) after extra time, in Croke Park. They created history by being the first club side to bring an All-Ireland men’s title back to Waterford.

GAA CLUB NOTES

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

Nire/Fourmilewater OPERATION TRANSFORMATION Fourmilewater/Nire and Juvenile clubs in conjunction with Ballymacarbry Ladies football would like to announce its participation in the Ireland Lights up/Operation Transformation walk 2018. OPERATION TRANSFORMATION AND THE GAA Ireland Lights Up with the GAA is a national initiative to improve the health of the country through GAA clubs and communities across Ireland. GAA Clubs across Ireland will be coming on board with Operation Transformation and turning on their floodlights/lighting systems between 7 pm-9 pm each Monday for a six-week period (22nd January – 26th February, 2018) as Operation Transformation returns to our screens for 2018. Do you want to get moving and active this New Year, but you have nowhere to go? Do you find it hard to find a safe and well-lit area to go for a walk during the dark winter months? Well, your local GAA Club has the answer! We’re coming on board with the Operation Transformation and the GAA for Ireland Lights Up. Every Monday from the 22nd January – 26th February 2018 our club will be open and lit up for you, your family and friends to come and walk from 7 pm to 9 pm. Please be advised that the playing surfaces of the Mill Field are strictly closed until further notice. There will be a route marked out to guide walkers for this event. Registration each Monday night will take place from 19:00-19:15 at the dressing rooms. Walks will finish at 20:40. Entrants must wear: • Hi vis Jacket. • Appropriate footwear (grassy wet/clay surface). • Head or hand light. We want everyone to come and join for Ireland Lights Up 2018! There is NO age restrictions FOURMILEWATER LOTTO RESULTS Fourmilewater Weekly Lotto Feb 3rd 2018. No winner. 5 by €30 winners: Danny Crotty, Sinead Ryan, Sharon O’Donnell, Emily Guiry, Joseph Walsh. Next week’s Jackpot €3,000. Numbers drawn: 1, 14, 29. FOURMILEWATER 45 CARD RESULTS 1st: Mary Murphy and Mary Kearns; Joint 2nd: Maurice Prendergast and Larry Ryan; Tony Doocey and Paddy Wall. Lucky tables: Tom Brazil and Allie Ryan; Catherine Whelan and Helen Ryan. COUNTY U-21 FOOTBALL SEMI-FINAL (2017) Hard luck to our U-21 footballers who lost the 2017 county semi-final to Ballinacourty last Saturday. Best of luck to Ballinacourty in the final. COUNTY SENIOR FOOTBALL AND HURLING DRAWS At last Monday night’s County Board meeting a new format for the County Senior Hurling and Football championship was agreed. There will now be three groups of four. Senior Football - Nire, Clashmore, Ballinacourty, Brickey Rangers. Opening Fixtures - Sunday, April 15th in Ardmore at 2:30 pm v Clashmore Saturday, April 21st in Fraher Field at 6 pm v Brickey Rangers Weekend of 15th July v Ballinacourty. Senior Hurling - De La Salle, Fourmilewater, Dungarvan, Tallow. Opening Fixtures - Saturday, March 31st in Fraher Field at 2:30 pm v Del La Salle Thursday, April 5th in Fraher Field at 6:30 pm v Dungarvan Weekend of July 1st v Tallow WATERFORD SENIOR HURLERS AND FOOTBALLERS Hard luck to Waterford Senior hurlers and footballers who lost to Tipperary and Antrim in last weekend’s National Hurling and Football leagues. ARDMORE Congratulations to Ardmore on their exciting and fantastic victory in last Sunday’s All Ireland Junior Hurling Final. BALLYMACARBRY LADIES FOOTBALL CLOTHING COLLECTION Ballymac Ladies annual Clothing Collection takes place on Saturday, February 24th between 9 am and 2 pm in the Community Centre. This collection helps to raise funds for the Ladies Football Club. On that day we would ask you to drop any bags of clothing you might have into the community centre between 9 am and 2 pm. (Drive around the back of the centre to drop the bags). Mobile phones and laptops are also being collected, however these must not be bagged with the clothing. No PC’S just laptops. No duvets or pillows please.

Tulach an Iarainn Notaí CLG Tulach an Iarainn sponsored by McGrath's Chemist. TALLOW GAA LOTTO SPONSORED BY KEARNEY'S RESTAURANT TALLOW Numbers drawn were: 1, 5, 12, 15. No winner. Consolation Prizes: Pat Hartigan, Fiona

Brickey Rangers GAA Club U-11: Winners of Division 2 Town & Country Hurling and Football.

McDonnell, Eileen Roche, Mary, Cian, Mark & Anna. Promoter: Eddie Cunningham. Next draw: Lukies, 12th of February. Jackpot: €6,000 Our weekly lotto tickets are available to purchase from any of the promoters or any businesses around the town. Please support our local lotto. Tickets are €2. MEMBERSHIP Membership is currently due and can be paid to Billie-Jean Sheehan. Membership is as follows: Individual €30; Couple €40; U-18 €25; Student Player €40; Player €50; Player & Partner €60. LAST MAN STANDING Tallow GAA Last Man Standing will start on Saturday, February 24th, with €500 prize money. Entry is €10. Please contact any player or committee member to enter. DEISE DRAW The Deise Draw will commence in the coming months. If anyone is interested in becoming a promoter or entering the draw please contact David O’Brien. It is a vital source of income for the club and any new participants would be greatly appreciated. FIXTURES Senior hurling round 1: Tallow v Dungarvan on Saturday, March 31st at 6.00 pm. Senior hurling round 2: Tallow v DLS on Sunday April 8th at 2 pm. Minor football provisional date for round 1 is the 4th of March and round 2 is the 18th March. Junior B football commencing April 13th. Senior Hurling League commencing March 18th. ALL-IRELAND TITLE Major congratulations to Ardmore, who were crowned All Ireland Junior Hurling Champions on Sunday last. The game went to extra time where Ardmore ran out eventual winners on a scoreline of 3-11 to 0-18. They are the first Waterford team to win a club All Ireland title, a huge achievement. Well done to all involved. NATIONAL LEAGUES Both hurlers and footballers suffered defeat last weekend with the hurlers losing out to Tipperary and the footballers to Antrim. The footballers will play Laois this weekend and the hurlers will play Kilkenny on Sunday, February 18th. We wish them both luck in the next round of their respective league games. COIS BHRÍDE Our u-8 hurlers played 3 games in Ballyduff last Saturday. The lads had a great time and gave everything. They are looking forward to the football next week. This will be held in Ballyduff on Saturday. Well done all!

Sliabh gCua/St. gCua/St. Mary’s Mary’s SLIABH gCUA JUNIOR A FOOTBALL VICTORY SOCIAL Sliabh gCua/St Mary's will hold a victory social on 24th February at Lawlor’s Hotel at 8 pm sharp. Contact committee members for tickets. You've supported us all year to winning the county final now celebrate the victory with us. LOTTO RESULTS No winner for the local lotto held on Sunday night, the winning numbers were 8, 20, and 24.

€20.00 winners were K. Cullinan, Pat Dalton, Mon Condon, Patrick Whelan and Jim Kennedy, Newcastle. Dunnes Bar won the promoter’s prize. Jackpot for next week is €3,000. Remember – if you’re not in you can’t win! CONGRATULATIONS TO ARDMORE Sliabh gCua/St Mary's would like to congratulate Ardmore on winning the All Ireland Junior Hurling final on Sunday on Croke Park! Well done to all involved - fantastic achievement. U-21 HURLING COUNTY FINAL Comeragh Gaels take on Portlaw/Ballyduff Lower in the U-21 Hurling County Final this Sunday, 11th February in Carriganore. Please come along to support the boys in the county final. CLASHMORE/KINSALEBEG JUVENILE GAA U-8 Hurlers in Action: Well done to our U-8 hurlers who had a brilliant morning of hurling in Ballinameela Community Centre last Saturday for the Western Division Indoor Hurling Blitzes. The lads took on Ardmore, Brickey Rangers and St.Olivers and played some mighty stuff. A big thank you to the parents that came along to support the lads and to our mentors Niamh, Dave, Brian and Catherine. The U-8's are in football action in Ballinameela this Saturday morning at 11.30 a.m. so please do try and come along and support the lads. The U-8's will continue to train indoors for another four weeks. They train every Wednesday night at 7:00 p.m. in Youghal GAA Hall and all players under the age of 8 are invited to attend. It is hurling this week so be sure to bring helmets please. Season Kicks Off on the Training Pitch: At this time of year our juvenile club gets the ball rolling on another big year by braving the cold weather and getting back to training. The U-10 footballers have begun training at the field as have our U-14's as they prepare for upcoming matches and work on their skills. Keep an eye on Facebook and Twitter for training times for these groups. Annual General Meeting: The club held its Annual General Meeting last Thursday night and we had a decent attendance on the evening. Our chairman Patrick Ryan began proceedings by providing a review of 2017 both on and off the field and also thanked various people for the work they had done in the past year. He spoke about how we continue to punch well above our weight and remain competitive in many championships. Mary O'Halloran provided a rundown on the financial situation in the club and spoke about the importance of fund raising to keep the show on the road. Club secretary Siobhan Daly gave a synopsis of last year’s AGM and spoke in detail about the happenings in the club in 2017. Following this there was the election of officers. At least two positions need to be filled as Patrick had indicated he was stepping aside as chairman after doing a great job over the past few years and Mary had 'gone upstairs' to become the new adult club treasurer, continuing the great work she has done as juvenile club treasurer. The club was unable to elect a chairperson and because of this the existing executive agreed to stay on for one month. Another meeting will be held in the coming weeks to form a committee. The meeting concluded shortly thereafter. Can You Spare One Hour A Week?: The

club is always looking for volunteers and fresh blood and if you think you can commit just one hour of your week to the juvenile club we would be delighted to have you. We are particularly looking for people to help out on the administration and coaching side of things. Any time you can spare would be fantastic and we welcome everyone, young and old. If you are a retired person and looking for a way to give back to the community there are few better ways to do this than by volunteering to help your local club. For more info please contact club PRO Barry Dunne on 087-6953648.

TOURIN BADMINTON CLUB MIXED DOUBLES COMPETITION At Cappoquin Community Hall on the 18th February, 2018. Closing date for entries 16th February. Entry fee €10 section. €5 for additional section. Competitions: Donal Barry Cup D+ from 4.00 p.m.; J. J. Scanlon Cup E&F from 12 noon.; Gerald McGrath Cup novice, H&G from 10 a.m.; Anglesey Cup Novice only. Handicaps apply. Plate competitions in all grades. All final held in Tourin Hall. Send entries to Cathal 086-8904507. tourinbc@outlook.com

CappoquinCamogie Camogie Cappoquin

Pats Juveniles St. Pat’s Juveniles

INDOOR CAMOGIE Under 6, 8 and 10's. €3 per child / €5 per family, Thursday's 5:45-6.45 pm in Cappoquin Community Centre. All children who attend all training sessions will receive a Cappoquin Camogie T-Shirt. New players always welcome. Contact 087 990 66 19. SPARE HELMETS We are looking for your old spare or old unused kids helmets to be donated to the club for new players to use and try the sport. All your help is greatly appreciated AGM Cappoquin Camogie Club AGM will take place February 9th at 7.30 pm in the Affane/Cappoquin GAA Clubhouse. All members are asked to attend. New or interested people are welcome.

MEDAL PRESENTATION Medals will be presented to St. Pat's U-13 to u-16 girls on Sunday, 25th February, 2018 at Coolnasmear Hall. Time to be confirmed. HURLING HELMETS While St. Pat's could in no way be described as a "big headed" club, it is a fact of life that the children quickly outgrow their first hurling helmet. Mary Fahey would be delighted to take helmets that are too small off your hands in exchange for a discount on your child's new helmet. Contact Mary for more information. NEW MENTORS & COACHES All new St. Pat's mentors need to have completed a GAA Foundation Course prior to commencing their coaching duties. The Foundation Award is the introductory award for coaches of Gaelic Games. The course is aimed at beginner coaches and will enable participants to assist a coach in the organisation of activities to develop hurling or football. The Foundation Course will be run in February at Coláiste Chathail Naofa, Dungarvan and also in Cappoquin some time in March. Prior to doing the Foundation Course you must be Garda vetted by your club. Contact the Secretaries of Colligan or Kilgobinet GAA club to initiate the vetting process. Vetting takes some time, so anyone doing the February or March courses needs to start the vetting process as soon as possible. For more information please contact Mary on 087 2813935. MEMBERSHIP FEES FOR 2018 €40 Per Person; €50 for adults & girls over 15; €120 family membership. "SPLIT THE POT" The draw was held on Sunday, 28th January, 2018 in Queally's Bar (Garrys), Bohadoon. The winner of the €235 was De De Fahey and the promoter was Mary Fahey. Tickets for the next draw are available from Mentors, Parents, Committee, Healy's Daybreak, The Pike Service Station, Tomas O'Hallanain's Pub & Queally's Bar. Tickets €2 each or 3 for €5 PROGRESSIVE 45 The Progressive 45 cards in aid of St. Pat's are on every Thursday at 8.15 pm in Coolnasmear Hall. ZUMBA TONE LADIES FITNESS CLASS This fitness class is back on at Bohadoon Sports Centre every Tuesday at 7.30 p.m. The class fee is €8. For more information please contact Mary on 087 2813935.

Tourin TRAINING Training will take place on the astro turf in Lismore this Saturday evening from 8-9. Can everyone make an effort to attend. Please leave management know if you are unable to attend. NATIONAL HURLING LEAGUE Waterford played the second round of the league against Tipperary in Thurles last Saturday evening. Waterford went in at the break on a scoreline of 0-10 to 0-9. Tipperary pulled away comfortably at the end on a scoreline of 1-20 to 1-11. ARDMORE ARE ALL IRELAND CHAMPIONS Congratulations to Ardmore on winning the Junior All-Ireland against St Mogues of Fethard from Wexford and also to be the first club in Waterford to achieve All-Ireland glory.This was a very exciting game throughout, with David Gartland scoring a fantastic point to bring it to extra-time. Ardmore finished the strongest and won on a scoreline of 3-11 to 0-18. TABLE QUIZ We will be holding a fundraising table quiz at Rose’s West End Bar on Saturday, 10th February at 9 p.m. Please see club texts for details and we will be looking for volunteers on the night. CLUB TEXT If anyone wants to be added to the club text please contact Cathal Wilkinson 086 8904507. TOURIN BC COMPETITION Once again we will be holding our annual tournament on the 18th February. We hope all past and present members will attend.

GAA CLUB NOTES

Kilrossanty Kilrossanty CLOTTO SPONSORED BY KILL AGRICULTURAL LTD. CLOTTO RESULTS No winner of a Jackpot of €5,400 held in Micilin’s Bar, Kilrossanty on Sunday night 4/2/18. Numbers were 7, 18, 19, 28. €30 won by the following people: Nora Tobin c/o Paul Lennon; Cora Cusack, c/o William Cusack. Seller’s Prize of €30: Pat Walsh, Ballygoula. Next Clotto to be held in Crotty’s Inn, Leamybrien on Sunday night 11/2/18 for a Jackpot of €5,500. On duty on the night Benny Whyte and Michael Keating. SENIOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP FIXTURES The first two round of the senior Football Championship are subject to the progression of the Senior Hurlers. Round 1 Kilrossanty V An Rinn Saturday, 25th April 7.30 p.m. Round 2 Kilrossanty V Rathgormack Sunday, 22nd April 2.30 p.m. Round 3 Kilrossanty V Gaultier 15th July Play-offs - July 29th Quarter-Finals - September 9th Semi-Finals - September 30th County Final: October 14th. SENIOR FOOTBALL LEAGUE The senior football league will start on the Friday, 23rd March. JUNIOR B FOOTBALL The Junior B Football Championship will start on Friday, April 13th. MINOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP DIVISION 2A Kilrossanty V Portlaw/Ballyduff at Pairc Naomh Brid, Leamybrien, Sunday, 4th March at 11:30 a.m. Round 2 a Bye Round 3 Tramore V Kilrossanty at Tramore GAA Grounds Wednesday, 28th March at 6.15 p.m. Round 4 Kilrossanty V St. Mary’s at Pairc Naomh Brid, Leamybrien, Monday, 2nd April at 12 noon. Round 5 Clann Na Ngael V Kilrossanty at Dunhill, Tuesday, 17th April at 6:30 p.m. CONGRATULATIONS To Ardmore on winning the Junior Club AllIreland on Sunday last in Croke Park defeating St. Mogue’s Fethard 3-11 to 0-18 points. KILROSSANTY GAA CLUB JUVENILES Membership: The membership fees for the coming year are as follows: Family €50. Player €15. All players must register and pay the appropriate fee before they are allowed play for the club. The time, date and venue for membership day will be communicated to players and families as soon as possible. Bingo: The next night out at the bingo will be Friday, February 23rd in Crotty's with an 8.30 start. The jackpot will be €1,000 on 38 calls in addition to the usual cash prizes amounting to €1,200. Proceeds from the night will go towards the running costs of the juvenile club. Come along and have an enjoyable social evening, supporting the next generation and be in with a chance to make some money and collect some prizes. Under 16 Football: Kilrossanty are in Division 2 in this championship and are scheduled to play their first game on Sunday, February 25th. Other than the teams in their division, no further details are available. In all, Kilrossanty will play seven games. The teams in the group are: Clan na Gael, Stradbally, St. Pat's, Brickey Rangers, De La Salle, Dungarvan, St. Mollerans. Annual General Meeting: Omitted from the list of members of the juvenile committee in last week’s notes was P. J. Houlihan. Apologies P. J.

Brickey Rangers LOTTO We have a winner, congratulations to Michael Touhy winner of €5,900 Jackpot. Numbers drawn 1-9-17-24. €25 to each of the following: Ann Ryan, Clodagh Cahill, Michael + Lena Walsh & Micheal + Eileen Meleady. Next week’s draw takes place in The Tudour House with a Jackpot of €1,000. WALKING Organised walking groups will resume on Wednesday at 7.00 p.m. from the Parish Church and will continue each Wednesday and Friday evening for the New Year. Walks are open to male or female and all are welcome to come along. LAST MAN STANDING We have a winner after a three horse race last weekend. Tommy Lynch, Percy Walsh and Emmett Gaffney were left with Tommy having West Ham who lost 3-1, Emmett having Arsenal who won it was down to Monday night for the decider to the one and only Percy Walsh who had Chelsea, like good old reliable Chelsea throughout this last man standing campaign they lost 41 which made Emmett the champion. Congrats to Emmett and thanks to everyone who supported our competition your support is greatly appreciated.

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018 NATIONAL DRAW National Draw Tickets are now overdue so anyone with ones sold or unsold please return to club treasurer Mary McGrath. WELL DONE Well Done to Ardmore who were crowned Junior All-Ireland Hurling Champions in HQ on Sunday against St. Mogue's Fethard of Wexford, After an exciting 60 minutes the teams were inseparable ending in a draw at 2-11 to 0-15. It took extra-time to separate the teams with Ardmore coming out on top 3-11 to 0-18 to take home the Junior All-Ireland Trophy, Congratulations to everyone involved and enjoy the celebrations from all in the Brickey Rangers GAA Club. SYMPATHIES Cumann Rod na Brice lost it oldest member and Vice-President over the weekend, when Pat Foley was called to his eternal reward. Pat was a true and loyal Brickey man. He played for the club in his youth and was known as the memory man in the valley. If you needed any piece of information about a player, a venue, a score or any one belonging or related to anybody, Pat was your first and only port of call. He was a mine of information who could be relied on to answer any question that would be put before him. He held almost every position of the club’s executive over the years. The Foley homestead was always a great Brickey house where many matches were won and lost over the years. In Pat’s latter years he never lost interest in the club and its activities. He always had a good eye for those who played well and was quick to let one know if someone was playing bad or out of position. He also followed the the County teams and non was prouder that Pat when Waterford played well. The club extends it sympathy to Pat’s sister Eleanor McCarthy, nieces and nephews, especially Helen and Pat Nugent, who cared after Pat in his later years. The club would like to extend their sympathy to the Lenane family, Ring on the death of their mother Eileen. Eileen was a prominent member of Brickey Camogie team of the 50's who won 3 county senior titles. May they rest in peace. JUVENILE NOTES U-8 Hurling Blitz: Our U8's kicked off the 2018 season with a blitz on Saturday morning. They met Clashmore, St Oliver's and Ardmore. Well done to this group of players. Juvenille training will recommence this week. All players will be notified on WhatsApp / Facebook of any changes. U-11 & U-12 Hurling: Tuesdays 6:30 - 7:30 pm. U-13 & U-14 Football: Thursday 7:30 - 8: 30 (TBC). U-16 Football: Training every Sunday at 10 a.m. Challenge game Friday, 9th Feb. (TBC players will be notified on team text). Camogie: Circuit training will continue every Tuesday night in the clubhouse at 7.30 p.m. All girls from 13 age group to Junior players are welcome to attend.

Ballyduff Upper Ballyduff Upper ALL-IRELAND SUCCESS Congratulations to Ardmore on their famous victory over St. Mogue’s Fethard in Croke Park on Sunday. Special mention must go to Ballyduff club man Wayne Power, who trained the Ardmore team. Having previously been involved with the Waterford minors when they triumphed in 2013 this is now the second time Wayne has tasted All Ireland glory in Croke Park. SENIOR HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP The first two rounds of the Senior Hurling Championship have been fixed. We play An Rinn on Saturday, March 31st in Fraher Field at 4 p.m. The following Thursday, April 5th we are in action against Abbeyside in Fraher Field at 8 p.m. MEMBERSHIP Membership is now due for renewal with Eugene Flynn, our Membership Officer. There are student and adult rates on offer as always along with packages for membership and yearlong subscription to the club lotto draw, or membership, year-long subscription to club lotto draw and subscription to the Déise Development Draw. Please get in touch with Eugene or any club officer for further information. CLUB LOTTO Club lotto tickets are available in St. Michael’s Hall from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. on weekdays. Tickets are also on sale before Sunday mass and available in both the Log Cabin and An Síbín. NATIONAL CLUB DRAW Reminder to sellers that tickets for the National Club Draw must be returned to Olive. BALLYDUFF UPPER JUVENILES AGM We had a good attendance at our AGM on Friday night last. The following officers were elected: President: Pat Flynn. Vice President: Gerry Hurley. Chairperson: Noel Casey. Vice Chairperson: Michael O’Donovan. Secretary: Karen Keating. Treasurer: Tony Morrison. Coaching Manager: Brendan Bolger.

Brickey Rangers GAA Club U-12: Joint winners of U12 Hurling Div 2 Town & Country.

The registration will take place on Thursday, 8th in the Sports Hall from 7-8 pm and again on Sunday, 11th in the Sports Hall at 12 noon.

Kilgobinet FIXTURES At the Western Board Championship Format & Draw meeting recently, Kilgobinet Junior "A" Footballers were drawn with An Sean Phobal, Affane and Shamrocks. We will play Affane in the first round, it's a League Style championship, with two semi-finals. Team 1 to play Team 4, Team 2 will play Team 3. While Kilgobinet Junior "C" Hurlers were drawn with An Rinn, Ballysaggart, Cappoquin, Clashmore/Kinsalebeg, Modeligo, Shamrocks, Melleray, Brickey Rangers and Abbeyside. We play Cappoquin in the first round, it's also a league format, top two in league qualify for semi-finals and are seeded. 3rd, 4th, 5th,and 6th placed teams go to quarter-finals, where 3rd will play 6th, 4th will play 5th. Lots of action to look forward to. TRAINING Training will commence for the 2018 season on Friday, 16th February at 7.30 pm in Bohadoon, Check that the boots and runners are in good working order lads! COUNTY DUTY Kilgobinet clubman Paul Walsh, was part of Tom McGlinchy's Waterford panel, who played Antrim in their Round 2 Allianz League at Carriganore last Sunday. ARDMORE All at Kilgobinet GAA Club, sent our congratulations to Ardmore on their All- Ireland Final victory last Sunday. You did the county proud. MEMBERSHIP A reminder, if anyone hasn't done so, membership is now due, please contact Membership Officer Eamonn Curran ASAP. SOCIAL MEDIA Check out our Facebook page @kilgobinet.gaa

Clashmore/ Clashmore/ Kinsalebeg Kinsalebeg WELL DONE The club was honoured to have Aidan Trihy lining out with the Waterford Senior Football team V Antrim. Unfortunately, they were outdone by two well taken goals by Antrim in the middle of each half. Despite the best efforts of the Waterford Senior hurlers in a competitive first half, the match ended in victory for a strong Tipperary team. Club member, Brian O’Halloran, worked very hard for the cause on a bitterly cold night. Best of luck for

the coming season. HISTORY MAKERS Heartiest congratulations to Ardmore Junior Hurling team on earning a place in Waterford GAA history when they became the first club team to win an All-Ireland Club Final, in Croke Park, on Sunday last. Well done to team captain, Declan Prendergast, and each and every member of the team on their hard fought victory against a very strong Wexford outfit. Congratulations to everyone involved with the team on this fantastic achievement.

Sean Phobal Phobal FORMAT FOR THE JF CHAMPIONSHIP Teams: An Sean Phobal, Kilgobinet, Affane, Shamrocks. League: Final 1 v 2. Championship: Two Semi-Finals 1 v 4 and 2 v 3. We play shamrocks in the 1st round. LOTTO Lotto results for 4th Feb: Numbers drawn we’re 4, 8, 23 and 28. No winner of Jackpot. €15 winners: Peggy Power, Eoin O’Neill, John Finn, Tomas Power and Tony Butler. Next week’s Jackpot is €4,600. HISTORIC VICTORY Congratulations to Ardmore GAA on their historic victory in the All-Ireland Junior hurling final.

Colligan Emmetts CLUB LOTTO There was no winner of the “Black & Amber” club lotto held in Shalloe’s Bar on Monday, 29th January. The numbers drawn were 15, 20, 21 and 29. The €20 lucky ticket winners were as follows: Eamon Ó Clú, Tony Hickey, Kay Casey and Seán Dalton. The seller’s prize went to Patsy Coffey. Last Monday, 5th February night’s jackpot was worth €2,600. Black and Amber lotto tickets will be on sale outside The Pike Service Station on Saturday mornings from 9 am to 1 pm. Your support is always greatly appreciated. CONGRATULATIONS All at Colligan GAA would like to congratulate St. Declan’s GAA, Ardmore on their magnificent win last Sunday in Croke Park. Ardmore took on St. Mogue’s from Fethardon-Sea, Wexford in the Junior Club Hurling All Ireland and came out on top after extra time on a scoreline of 3-11 to 0-18. Well done to all involved.

Rinne CLG CLG na Rinne LOTTO Torthaí lotto 29/1/18. Uimhreacha: 8,12,13, 25. Ní raibh aon buaiteoir den pota óir an tseachtain

seo chaite. Bhuaigh na daoine seo a leanas €25: Éibhlín Nic An Óige, Tommy & Cáit Mhic Craith, Pa Kelly. Beidh €10,000 sa pota óir an tseachtain seo chugainn agus is I dTigh Uí Mhaonaigh a bheidh an tarraingt. CLUICHE CUIMHNEACHÁIN MICHÉAL Ó HAODHA Beidh Cluiche Cuimhneacháin Michéal Ó hAodha ar siúl ar an Satharn 17/2/18 thuas I bPáirc Uí Shíothcháin in aghaidh Bun Machain. Tosnóidh an chluiche ag 2 pm. Ba bhreá slua a fheiscint thuas sa pháirc. OÍCHE CÉILIÚRADH Ná déanaigí dearmad ar Oíche Céiliúradh CLG Na Rinne agus Cumann Camógaíochta Na Rinne atá ar siúl ar an Aoine 23/2/18 istigh in Ostán Lálor. Tá ticéidí ar fáil ó Sinéad Ní Chadhla, Catherine Uí Dhúnaigh nó aon ball den gcoiste. COMHBHRÓN Ba mhaith le CLG Na Rinne comhbhrón a ghabháil go dtí muintir Lonáin, Maoil a’ Chóirne, ar bás Éibhlín a tharla le déanaí. Ar dheis dé go raibh a anam dílis.

Ballysaggart Ballysaggart CLUB LOTTO Draw 30th January: Numbers drawn were 1, 10, 11 and 20. No jackpot winner. €30 weekly prize winners are Sean Roche, Paul Veale and Eoghan, Cormac & Ronan Silke. Lotto on every Tuesday night at Meagher’s, tickets €2. Jackpot this week €2,750. ALLIANZ LEAGUE Waterford senior hurlers faced Tipperary last Saturday in Thurles in the second round of the league and came away disappointed to lose the game to Tipperary on a score of 1-20 to 1-11. Both Stephen and Kieran Bennett featured in the starting 15 on the night. Next game is against Kilkenny in Walsh Park on February 18th. Come on the Deise. ARDMORE TAKE CLUB ALL-IRELAND Congratulations to all in Ardmore GAA who brought home the Club All-Ireland Junior title last Sunday in their hard fought final against Fethard. All on the team, their mentors and all in the club and the area should be so proud of their fantastic achievement.

Ballinameela Ballinameela CLUBIFY Download the clubify app and follow Ballinameela GAA to stay up to date with news, fixtures, results and much more. Membership can be be paid through the app too. TRAINING Training will recommence this Friday. A schedule of training sessions for the coming months is available for anyone interested in playing.

GAA CLUB NOTES

Dungarvan Observer | Friday, 9 February, 2018

Abbeyside/Ballinacourty JACK THE JOKER Our ever popular Jack the Joker fundraiser continues this Sunday night in Alice O’Connor’s Bar where the jackpot is €7,600 as on Sunday night Mike Briggs was drawn out of the drum and chose card number 50 which when turned was not the joker but he did win €50. John Ahearne and Louise Power won €25 each. As well as our group of ticket sellers tickets can be purchased from Village Flowers, Spar, Mousies Takeaway, Minnies Bar, Abbeyside Post Office and Crotty’s Bar. UNDER 21 FOOTBALL On Saturday afternoon last our under 21 footballers recorded a very good win over The Nire in the 2017 County semi-final which was played in The Gold Coast. This Saturday they will take on Gaultier in the County Final which once again takes place in the Gold Coast at 2 p.m. We appeal to all our supporters to please come out and support the team. CONGRATULATIONS On behalf of all in the club we would like to congratulate Ardmore on their marvellous victory in the Junior All-Ireland Hurling Club Final in Croke Park on Sunday last. LAST MAN STANDING Our Last Man Standing fundraiser got off to very exciting start on Saturday last where some surprising results over the weekend saw us lose 347 entrants out of the 714 who entered. We would like to thank all those who entered and a big thanks to Willow and Oak for their generous sponsorship. BOOKING OF PITCHES As our teams begin returning to training we would like to remind all our coaches to please ensure that they book the pitches with Michael Donovan before training. CLUB BINGO Our club bingo session continues in the CBS Hall this Sunday night with a jackpot of €1,600.

Dungarvan