News
St Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny unveils 2026 programme
Photo: Liam Murphy St Patrick’s Festival Kilkenny has unveiled its programme for 2026, as organisers prepare for a vibrant celebration of Ireland’s national holiday. The packed programme brings together more than 80 events celebrating Ireland’s rich heritage, folklore and contemporary culture. The line-up includes family and street entertainment, walking tours and workshops, historical talks, and …
LIAM CLEERE RIP
The Bennettsbridge Community was saddened to hear of the passing in his 92nd year of Liam Cleere, Woodlawn, following a long illness. Liam died in the care of the staff in Castlecomer District Hospital on the 30th of January. The family will forever remember the kindness and care shown to him during his time there. …
Kilkenny Karate Club Claim Medals at Major Championships in England
The Budo Martial Arts Centre, Kilkenny, has returned home with medals and memorable achievements following a strong showing at the Japan Shotokan Karate Association GB & Ireland Championships, held recently in England. The championships attracted karate competitors from across Great Britain and Ireland. With a high standard of judging and experienced athletes in every division, …
Davy Holohan – Reflections on a Life
I had many interactions with Davy Holohan. Our friendship began during innocent schooldays and remained constant as we navigated life. On a regular basis, over cups of black coffee, we would chat, discussing world affairs and the mundane frivolities of life. We occasionally disagreed but were never disagreeable. Regularly, I would meet Davy as he …
The Weird World of The Weir
In Conor McPherson’s play The Weir, being presented by Lake Productions, we are introduced to stories about fairies, local folklore, and the supernatural, allowing us to explore themes of isolation, tradition and modernity, and the human need for connection. The Kilkenny Observer contacted Dr Stiofán Ó Cadhla for his take on the subject. By: Dr …
On Valentine’s, remembering my first kiss
FURTHERMORE By Gerry Moran To tell of my first kiss is to tell of miracles, devotion to our Blessed Lady and the advent of The Top 10 on Radio Eireann. It was the early Sixties and I was all of 12. A group of us boys were huddled together in an old, galvanised shed in …
Blending the old with the new makes cents
BY JOHN ELLIS, FINANCIAL ADVISOR Last week, we explored gold’s enduring appeal as the world’s oldest safe-haven asset. From ancient Egypt’s ‘Flesh Of The Gods’ to its modern role in diversified portfolios, gold has shone through crises, hitting record highs around €4,200 – €4,300 an ounce amid geopolitical tensions, inflation fears, and central bank buying. …
Mayor’s reception for Kilkenny Special Olympics Club
Kilkenny athletes selected to represent Team Leinster across a variety of sports were honoured by Mayor of Kilkenny Cllr John Coonan at County Hall last Wednesday 21st of January. The athletes were all presented with Mayoral Certificates by the Mayor and the cheering and whoops of joy as each athlete received their Certificate could be heard …
Kilkenny County Council’s Fire Service Unveils Ireland’s First Electric Fire Appliance Designed for Medieval City Response
Kilkenny County Council’s Fire Service has introduced Ireland’s first purpose-built electric fire appliance, a compact two‑seater vehicle designed specifically to access the narrow streets, laneways and other restricted areas that define Kilkenny’s medieval city centre. Built on the ALKE ATX 340EH electric chassis supplied by Suirway Carrick-on-Suir Co. Tipperary and fitted out by High Precision …
Trust your eyes not other’s lies
CHOICES SHAPE YOUR FUTURE By Judith Ashton “I promise to tell The Truth and nothing but The Truth…” This oath been used for centuries in legal situations and means that the person has lawfully sworn to tell the truth. Once sworn, any mistruths are regarded as perjury, a serious crime with significant penalties, including prison …
