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News


AS I SEE IT BY MARIANNE HERON We have seen the results of plenty of wheeling and dealing recently. Some of the bargaining has resulted in deals being struck, while some have been abandoned or fallen apart. By far the most dramatic has been the sudden agreement between Israel and Hamas for a ceasefire in …

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THE FACT OF THE MATTER BY PAUL HOPKINS It seems like it was only yesterday that I wrote in this column, Where did that year go, what with 2024 just upon us? Now, here I am again, wondering where the last 12 months went. I may not be any the wiser but I am, unfortunately, …

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BY JOHN ELLIS, FINANCIAL ADVISOR The housing and financial markets are experiencing significant shifts as 2025 unfolds, driven by a robust economy, people’s changing needs and reduction in interest rates. Trevor Grant, of Irish Mortgage Advisors, notes an increase in first-time buyer mortgage approvals, signalling strong demand for home ownership. This trend, fuelled by uncertainty …

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AS I SEE IT BY MARIANNE HERON In the wake of the devastating wild fires that reduced whole neighbourhoods of Los Angles to ash the blame game caught light. Locals blamed water shortages, cutbacks, possible arson and poor forest management for the inferno. President-elect Donal Trump, never slow to point the finger, accused local leaders …

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THE FACT OF THE MATTER BY PAUL HOPKINS It is 2004 and I am traversing South Africa to write a major national newspaper report on the country celebrating 10 years of independence. I am travelling with the South Africa Ambassador to Ireland, Melanie Verwoerd – one-time partner of the late Gerry Ryan – the youngest, …

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Kilkenny County Council’s Environment Section is reminding vehicle owners of the critical importance of using certified operators for vehicle refinishing services. Not only is this essential for the quality of the work, but it is also a legal requirement under current environmental legislation. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates vehicle refinishing activities due to their …

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BY CLAIR WHITTY Last week myself and AoifeRose looked at ways to get motivated for the new year and we promised that we would talk about some supplements that might help you achieve your goals. If you are worried about getting colds and flu if you go out and about mixing with people, I suggest …

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Kilkenny County Council, in partnership with Fáilte Ireland, is delighted to announce the signing of a major contract with local company, Duggan Lynch Ltd., for the development of Kilkenny’s newest tourism attraction. Following an investment of €4.5 million from Fáilte Ireland, this exciting project will enhance the cultural and historical offering of the City, attracting …

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Kilkenny County Council Library Service and Age Action are delighted to be hosting GETTING STARTED classes in the fantastic new Mayfair Library. GETTING STARTED is a Digital Literacy Programme, designed to help older people improve their digital literacy skills, enabling them to stay connected, informed and supported, especially in an age where more and more information and services are online. …

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“As we recover from this period of severe weather, I, as Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, would like to acknowledge and thank our Local Authority for their exceptional response to a plethora of issues over the past four days of extremely challenging conditions. The terrific team effort led by the Chief Executive, Director of Services, …

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