News
The brave new world of the digital euro
BY JOHN ELLIS, FINANCIAL ADVISOR The European Central Bank (ECB) is developing a ‘digital euro’, a new form of money you could use via your phone or card, much like cash but electronic. The ECB began planning in 2021, started a two-year preparation phase in November 2023, and intends to launch by 2028. It will …
Time to protect women’s spaces – like UK ruling
AS I SEE IT BY MARIANNE HERON Some cities now have pedestrian crossing lights showing the LGBTQ+ sign in green for go and in London, I noticed recently, there are ‘go’ transgender signs on crossings. Since the UK’s Supreme Court ruling last month, though, trans women– men who identify as women – will not have …
Unleash Your Creative Spark at Cruinniú na nÓg 2025!
Get ready to ignite your imagination! Creative Kilkenny announces Cruinniú na nÓg 2025, a showcase of youthful innovation. Events start on May 18th at the Happy Pottery Studio, leading to a festival of free events across the county on June 7th. Join us for 52 free creative activities, exploring the picturesque landscapes of County Kilkenny. …
Eye for an eye, and nature of forgiveness
THE FACT OF THE MATTER BY PAUL HOPKINS Twenty one years ago this month I was on a flight from Durban to Cape Town. I was on an assignment for the Irish Independent to write an overview on the first 10 years of the rainbow nation, it having thrown off the shackles of apartheid. About …
Patrick Rafter conducts an 80-piece orchestra this weekend in St. Canice’s Cathedral – Star Wars, Schindler’s List, Wicked and much more
An evening at the Oscars An 80 piece orchestra performing your movie favourites such as Star Wars, Wicked, or Schindler’s List in the incredible setting of St Canice’s Cathedral? Or how about witnessing quite literally one of the world’s greatest pianists, Barry Douglas, join sensational Irish violinist, Patrick Rafter in a breathtaking program at St. …
125 West Street launched at Club House
Recently, The Kilkenny Observer attended the launch of Willie Egan’s eagerly anticipated novel, 125 West Street. The ballroom of the Club House Hotel was packed to capacity as family and friends of the author turned out to support the Mullinahone born writer. From a theatrical perspective, the Club House holds a unique place in the …
Being a Christian is fundamentally about embracing our head, hands and heart
Homily of Bishop Niall Coll at Mass for Pope Francis RIP, St Mary’s Cathedral, Kilkenny My phone started ringing within minutes following media reports of the death of Pope Francis on Easter Monday. Even though he has been ill, his death came as a shock to most of us. Immediately, a media statement had to …
ANZAC Day at Kilkenny Peace Park
Photos: Pat Shortall The sun shone as over 100 people gathered at Kilkenny’s Peace Park. Representatives from Australia, Turkey and New Zealand were in attendance, as were people from many Irish counties. Also present were various politicians. At 16.30 hours, Commandant Larry Scallan assumed his position. A long whistle sounded, and proceedings got underway. It …
Easter commemoration at Freshford
The annual Easter Commemoration ceremony was held on The Green in Freshford at noon on Sunday 20th of April. Members of Kilkenny historical re-enactors led the parade, followed by the flying column with Kilkenny Historical Re-Enactors. The event was MC’d by John Meagher, who opened the ceremony. The Proclamation was read by newly elected TD …
Kilkenny Traveller lives in focus
Traveller Pride Week is an annual event that celebrates the community, ethnicity, identity, heritage and culture of the Traveller community in Ireland. During Traveller Pride Week, both national and local events take place. Traveller Pride events are designed to create a greater understanding and acceptance of Traveller culture in Irish society and highlight the many …
