End of an Era There were emotional scenes and the end of an era in Connemara when the last Leaving Certificate class of Kylemore Abbey Girls School finished their exams in June. After 89 years of education in Connemara, Lea Pecorari and Olivia Corbett-Joyce were the last students of the remaining ten Connemara students to sit exams at the historic school. Lea’s last exam, the final State exam held at Kylemore was on Italian and Olivia, sitting her music exam was the last Irish girl to finish her education in Kylemore Abbey, which is treasured and cherished by its past pupils and staff in the locality and all over the world. The closure of the school is as a result of a fall in vocations to the Benedictine community and has been met with sadness and regret in Connemara and further afield, but the legacy it has left and will continue to leave is a testament to the great esteem in which the school is held.
sailing infrastructure for the good of the entire community. The Clifden Regatta will take place this year on Friday 6th, Saturday 7th and Sunday 8th of August. A good number of visiting yachts are expected and they will now be able to avail of this new development which will further improve the facilities available to locals and visitors alike.
Photo: The new landing pontoon at Clifden Bay has its ribbon cut by President of the Connemara Chamber of Commerce Declan Mannion and Damian Ward of Clifden Boat Club. Pictured in the background are Karen Mannion of the Forum LEADER programme, Minister Éamon Ó Cuív, Pat Casey, Padraic McCormack T.D., Joe Lynch, Paul Mannion, Rev. Denis Sandes and Jackie Ward. Photo by Patrick Howard Studios
School Planning Moves Ahead
The last Irish student of Kylemore Abbey, Olivia CorbettJoyce is pictured here with her mother Mary Corbett-Joyce and School Principal Mary Dempsey.
Pontoon Officially Opened The culmination of much work and a joint effort by the Clifden Boat Club and Connemara Chamber of Commerce came to fruition on Friday June 4th when the new landing pontoon at the Boat Club was officially opened. The pontoon project was assisted by the Forum LEADER programme and is now in place and in use by various vessels, having been widely welcomed by all who use the bay area. It is the first phase of a larger overall project and now that the development has been set in motion the Boat Club and Chamber are continuing their efforts to further develop the
The Stage 2B process is progressing to plan as envisaged when details of this stage were announced at the start of this year. CSI: Clifden can report that the planning notice for the demolition of the current building and the construction of the new school building and all associated works appeared in The Connacht Tribune on Thursday June 24th. The planning application has also been lodged. CSI: Clifden feel that this marks a significant step in providing a new Community School building for Connemara. The next CSI: Clifden public meeting will take place in September. In the past year the monthly meetings have taken place in the Community School and also in Claddaghduff, Ballyconneely and Letterfrack. This will continue again from September while the campaign is ongoing. CSI: Clifden is launching its Monster Raffle this month. Tickets for some great prizes will be available soon priced at €2 each. Your support is appreciated for the chance to win a 32” LCD TV or a weekend away among other great prizes. See www.csiclifden.com for all the latest news.
Cycle Loops Launched The new Clifden Cycle Loops, developed by Fáilte Ireland in association with Galway County Council were launched during National Bike Week on Saturday June 19th at the Station House Hotel, Clifden followed by a cycle around the Errislannan Loop. The official launch was performed by Pádraic Quinn, a former international cyclist from 1994-2000. Padraic was an international stage race winner and rode two world championships. He currently works with TG4 as a commentator on the Tour de France and the World Championships and is Managing Director of the Safer Cycling Initiative Ltd, which provides cycle training nationally for National and Secondary Schools. The Cycle loops include Sky Road Loop, Errislannan Loop, Cleggan Loop and Ballyconneely and Roundstone Loop. Mapboards showing the routes are located in Clifden Town Centre just off the Square, Cleggan Pier, Sky Road Viewing Area, Roundstone Village and Ballyconneely Village. All areas will also have bike stands in place. Photo: Paul Hughes and friend stop for a breather while cycling the Errislannan Loop after the launch of the Clifden Cycle Loops on June 19th. Photo courtesy of Patrick Howard Studios.
REGIONAL Community School Achievements Five transition year students of Clifden Community School were shortlisted for the Young Environmentalists Awards in Dublin on May 12th with their project ‘The Green Reality of Recession’. They are Lisa Keane, Chloe O’ Neill O’ Sullivan, Aisling Nee, Caroline Nee and Gráinne O’ Donnell. (Photo below)
Furniture College Exhibition The GMIT Letterfrack campus Furniture College exhibition is currently on display at the Connemara West building in Letterfrack where it will remain open until August 27th. The exhibition is free and is open from 10am-1pm and 2-5pm from Monday to Friday. All are welcome to drop in and see the great work carried out by students of the college in the past year.
Féilte films in Clifden TG4’s award winning Féilte series, which showcases the very best of Irish entertainment from around the country, will be stopping in Clifden and west Connemara this year. The shooting for the Connemara episode will take place in various locations from July 13th-15th and will feature a whole host of local faces, including: Dominic Ó Móráin of Lough Inagh Lodge Hotel talking about The Connemara Loop, Leo Hallissey of CEECC, singers, musicians and dancers Dessie O’ Halloran, Liz and Yvonne Keane and Emma O’ Sullivan, Dónal O Scanaill of Clifden and Renvyle House Hotel chef Tim O’ Sullivan who will demonstrate a recipe. Hosted by Síle Ní Bhraonáin and Sínead Ní Loideáin, nine episodes will be aired on TG4 on Thursday evenings at 8.30pm, from Thursday July 15th onwards, with the show featuring the Clifden and West Connemara area airing on Thursday July 29th.
Documentary series on ‘Seahorseman’ A new four part series on RTÉ One will chart the fascinating and remarkable story of Irish marine biologist Kealan Doyle and the the rise and fall of the extraordinary company he and his business partner Ken Maher founded in 2001.
dancing and a bumper raffle. Rafts for the race and lifejackets will be provided by the Clifden Lifeboat crew and entries are now being taken, so get a crew of workmates or friends together now-if you’re not in, you can’t win! The cost is €120 per raft or €20 per person. Pre registration is advised, but entries of teams and individuals will also be accepted on the day. To enter or for more information, contact Alan Pryce on 087-752-1897 or Robert King on 087-697-7505.
Colouring for Watersports The ever popular WaterSports Day will be held on Glassilaun Beach, Renvyle, Co. Galway on Sunday August 15th and to date has raised over €35,000 for children. WaterSports Day Posters which are used to advertise the day and are coloured by school children from over 20 schools are now collected, judged and the winner from each school has been awarded their prize so well done to all. Photo: The Overall winner from over 20 schools participating this year was Eimear Roche who attends Aillebrack National School.
Golden Mile 2010 Community groups in Connemara are now being invited to enter the Golden Mile Competition of 2010 by Galway Co. Co. in conjunction with Comhar na nOileán, Forum Connemara and Galway County Heritage Forum. Full details can be seen on Page 6 of this issue.
FORUM Men’s Programme Event
Students Darwyn O’ Halloran and Rachel O’ Donnell collected the new Green Flag for the school on May 27th at the Galway Bay hotel, Salthill with teacher Olivia Staunton and Green Schools representatives. Above photo courtesy of Olivia Staunton
The series will feature the natural history of the seahorse and document the trials and tribulations of the pair’s award winning seahorse farm which was founded in and operated from Carna in recent years. Produced by GMarsh TV Production, ‘Seahorseman’ will be broadcast on RTE One at 8:30pm over four episodes on Monday 12th, Tuesday 13th, Thursday 15th and Friday 16th July.
Race a Raft for Lifeboats The primary fundraiser of 2010 for the Clifden Lifeboat service is set to take place on Saturday July 31st in Clifden Bay, when a monster raft race will be the centerpiece of a huge variety of activities and entertainment for both kids and adults in aid of the local RNLI service. Events will be kicking off at Clifden beach from 1pm. A highlight for spectators will be a thrilling display by the ‘Zap Cats’ which are light, powerful and thrillingly fast boats, which can reach speeds of 50 miles per hour. In a local battle for glory, the crews of the Clifden Lifeboat and Clifden Fire Brigade will ‘take the strain’ in a Tug of War that promises to be as competitive as it will be entertaining-who will you cheer for?! The raft race will be followed by a prize giving ceremony, barbecue, live music and
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July 2010
Following the very successful Christmas event where FORUM supported 48 men from the parish of Roundstone to attend a social in Glynsk House Hotel, the men of the parish are on the move again! An exciting number of events are planned over the summer with the first taking place on the Sunday 25th July at the 11th annual Mountbellew Vintage Rally. This will be an unmissable opportunity to not only see the usual attractions one might expect at a vintage show, vintage cars and tractors, motorbikes, and commercial steam engines but also a display of old farm implements and working exhibits. If there are any men interested from the Roundstone, Cashel and Recess areas please contact Margaret Sheehan, FORUM Office, Clifden on 095-21741 and leave a message if necessary.
BBC Magazine Feature The July issue of the popular BBC Wildlife magazine featured Connemara as one of the ten best places in Ireland to see wildlife. The ten hotspots were picked by ecological consultant Pádraic Fogarty, who chairs the Irish Wildlife Trust who wrote: “The water off the coast of west Galway may be cold, but during the admittedly brief summer you can bathe here without a wetsuit and there are places where the sea is positively inviting. The golden ‘coral’ beaches are not made of sand; they are broken-off outgrowths of submerged seaweeds that lend a Caribbean look (if not feel) to the sheltered inlets. The gin-clear water reveals a profusion of marine life that includes kelp forests, giant pink sea urchins, velvet black sea cucumbers, spider crabs and a surprising diversity of colourful fish”. The BBC Wildlife magazine has a circulation of almost 45,000 and is a premier wildlife magazine in the U.K. market.
Fáilte Ireland Map Omission The omission of Cashel and its tourism related businesses from Fáilte Ireland West’s maps of the area has been criticised and highlighted by tourism providers in the area. Senator Fidelma Healy Eames has written to Fáilte Ireland about the damaging omission and pointed to the fact that the maps in question are being widely circulated in the industry, notably in The Irish Times in June. She said “Local enterprise has contacted me expressing their upset at the situation with particular distress being caused for the two hotels in the area, Cashel House Hotel and Zetland. Leaving Cashel off the map may very well be an oversight on Ireland West’s behalf, however, it is something that needs to be corrected now and not next season. This move is seriously damaging with local hotels, restaurants and related business being penalised unfairly for no good reason”.
Connemara View Newspaper
Connemara View Newspaper
July 2010
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Ballyconneely
Slow Food Galway at Smokehouse
Clifden
Clifden Boat Club The occasion of the new pontoon launch coincided with the 20th anniversary of the Clifden Boat Club. This led to a recreation of an old photograph of Boat Club members taken 20 years ago which was published in the June issue of the Connemara View, including faces old and new. Back (l-r): Paul Ryan, Peter Vine, Joe Lynch, Pat Casey, Kenneth Flaherty, Paul Mannion, Liam Clarke, Dave Beecher, and Barry Ward. Middle (l-r): Catriona Vine, Suzie Ward, and Paddy Pryce. Front (l-r): Declan Mannion, Donal O Scanaill, Padraic McCormack T. D., Sean O Farrell, Jackie Ward and Damian Ward. Photos by Patrick Howard Studios
It was ‘foodie’ heaven at the Connemara Smokehouse in Ballyconneely on June 13th when Slow Food Galway and proprietors Graham (see photo) and Saoirse Roberts hosted a guided tour and demonstration of the smokehouse, followed by a mouthwatering enormous picnic afterwards. Over 40 Slow Food Galway members and guests enjoyed the superb day and more photos can be seen on the website www.slowfoodgalway.com. Tours are conducted at the Connemara Smokehouse during the summer months, and groups and tours can also be accommodated. For more information contact the Smokehouse at 095-23739 or go to www.smokehouse.ie.
25 Years of Ballyconneely Show
Photo Walk around Clifden On Saturday, July 24th an exciting worldwide photography and walking event will take place as part of Scott Kelby’s ‘Third Annual Worldwide Photo Walk’. Michael Harris, a photographer from Dublin and a regular visitor to Connemara will lead a “Walk around Clifden”. It starts from the Church car park on the Westport road at 11am. Anyone can participate-all you need is a camera. It doesn’t matter what kind of camera you have or level of photography you are at either. There is no fee to participate but pre-registration is required. Just go to the Worldwide Photo Walk site and find the Clifden Walk to join in on the fun. Participants may also be eligible to win prizes from the Worldwide Photo Walk’s sponsors if their photo is chosen as the best photo of the day by their walk leader. Each winning walk photo is then entered into a global competition where Scott Kelby picks the single “best photo” of the event along with 10 runners-up. To register and for more information see www.worldwidephotowalk.com.
The 25th Annual Ballyconneely Pony Show takes place over the weekend of the 17th & 18th July 2010, with the new addition to the Show of the Jumping Class on Saturday the 17th. Founded in 1985, by a dedicated local Show Committee and this year celebrating 25 successful years, the event is one of the largest in the area, attracting many breeders and ponies as the area is renowned for its breeding of the celebrated Connemara Pony. With the added attractions of a dog show, a craft show and even a bonnie baby competition, the Ballyconneely Pony Show is a great day out for all the family. Entries are being taken for the Jumping Class, up to, and including, on the day (Saturday, 17th July). Entries for the Pony Show itself (Sunday, 18th July) have now closed. For further information contact: Mary McNamara on 086-072-0864.
ICA Dinner Outing Members of the Ballyconneely Guild of the ICA recently enjoyed a fantastic dinner and evening out at the Abbeyglen Castle Hotel in Clifden with a great reception and hospitality from proprietors Paul and Brian Hughes. It was a very enjoyable evening and a great night was had by all. Photo: Ballyconneely ICA members: Back (l-r) Eileen King, Mary Margaret O’ Reilly, Helen Griffin, Brigitte Rosenfelder, Nora Lennon, Josephine Conroy, Anne Early. Front (l-r): Penny O’Malley, Kathleen Conneely, Deirdre McGonagle (President), Peggy O’ Neill and Mary Little. Photo courtesy of Veronica O’ Malley
Ballyconneely School Crest The school crest for Ballyconneely Scoil Bhride is available at The Connemara Pony Company, Market Street, Clifden. The crest can be embroidered the crest onto children’s school jumpers, cardigans etc at the same cost as the badges which were previously available from the school. School ties are still available from the school as usual.
Aillebrack School News Congratulations to Shane Conroy and Peter Lee on their recent graduation from our school and take this opportunity to wish the boys all the best in the future.
Our school recently renewed its Green Flag and we now proudly fly both the Green Flag and the Green Homes flag. Well done to all involved for their hard work. Shane Conroy, Peter Lee, Francesca McDonagh and Adam O’ Neill travelled to Dublin, with Eoin O Fatharta and Tina McDonagh to receive the flags.
Celia O’Neill of 4th class along with her friends Francesca McDonagh of 5th class, Eimear Roche, Amy Roberts and Grainne King (all from 3rd class) recently presented a book which they wrote in school to Clifden Library. This book will be on display in the library for the summer months. Celia was the main author with poetry contributions from the other girls. Well done to all involved.
Congratulations to the Feis competitors from our school. The feis was held in Clifden on Saturday 19th of June. Children from our school who won a prize were Celia O’Neill (2nd place) and Philip Duane (3rd Place) playing Keyboard and Francesca McDonagh (2nd place) playing accordion. Congratulations also to Ciara McDermott, 1st class student in our school for winning joint 3rd in the Cashel Credit Union Talent Show recently. Peter Lee, Shane Conroy, Francesca McDonagh and Adam O’ Neill all took part in the Connemara inter schools book club radio show. We look forward to hearing from you guys. Thank you to all parents for all your help during the school year and we are looking forward to next year.
Ballyconneely School News DVD launch We recently made a DVD in our school. The film crew spent three days recording many events that occur in the school. It includes a short drama, music, local facts and history, past principals, local people in the community and much more. We had the launch of the DVD in Ballyconneely hall on the 25th of June. The DVD is on sale now in local shops for €15. Graduation Our sixth class pupils had their graduation on June 18th. We attended mass with Fr. Dunleavy in Ballyconneely church followed by the presentation of certificates and a reception for the parents of the sixth class in the school. It was a lovely day. The sixth class pupils will be missed by all in the school. We wish them well as they begin their time in Clifden secondary school. Photo: Front (l-r): Amanda Conneely, Shannon Nee, Caitriona King. Back (l-r): Shane Reilly, Niall McCann.
School Tours On 27th May, the senior room went on their school tour with Muinteoir Julie, Muinteoir Louise and Jeremy (SNA). They went to Jim Clancy’s adventure centre. Continued on next page
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July 2010
Connemara View Newspaper
Gerard, Alexander, Rachel and Sarah, pupils of St. Theresa’s National School.
Ballyconneely School Continued
Fr. Breen Memorial Tree
They did lots of activities like kayaking, orienteering and abseiling. Then they had a barbeque on the beach in Roundstone. Everyone had a fantastic day. On June 16th the junior classes went to the Connemara National Park on their school tour. They went on a nature walk and found things in nature that were many different colours. They decorated pictures of caterpillars with objects from nature and made butterfly masks. Everyone had a great time and the sun shone all day. Heart Project The 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th class did an art project on the heart with Lol Hardiman. Medtronic, Galway, sponsored the project with Galway Education Centre. Then some of the children went to the Radisson hotel to show the art project with other schools. PJ, Cliona, James, Myles and Emma did a presentation on the heart.
The former Chairperson of Cashel National School Fr. Patrick Breen was honoured with the planting of a memorial tree in the grounds of the school in June. Fr. Breen’s brother and sister in law Don and Patricia Breen were joined by P.P. Fr. McCarthy and Archbishop Dr. Michael Neary in carrying out the planting of the tree, in what was an emotional and moving memorial event for all present. Photo right: Teacher Gráinne Coyne, Carmel Boulger (B.O.M.), Fr. McCarthy, Principal Cepta Stephens, John King and Karin Joyce (B.O.M.), Don and Pat Breen, Archbishop Dr. Michael Neary, Chairperson Des Lally and Minister Éamon Ó Cuív at the tree planting ceremony.
Cashel
New School Extension Opened! The new school extension at Cashel NS was officially opened by Minister Eamon Ó Cuív in the bright sunshine of Friday June 25th. Archbishop Dr. Michael Neary also blessed the new extension and the attendance of the Archbishop and the Minister was much appreciated by the students, staff, parents and Board of Management of the school. We had fantastic support and help from parents, businesses and the general community for the official opening which is hugely appreciated. Phyllis Ó Donoghue provided wonderful flowers and the Cunningham family gave a fantastic performance at the opening. Ar scáth a chéile a mhaireann na daoine. Nár laga Dia sibh! Finally, we wish all our pupils a safe, sunny and thoroughly enjoyable holidaysee you September 1st! Good luck to sixth class pupils moving on to secondary schoolEamon, Caoimhe, Roma and Sarah. Bonne
Third Green Flag St Theresa’s NS was also delighted to receive our third Green Flag for water conservation in June. Graham Clarke of An Taisce and the Green Schools Programme helped us raise our flag, of which we are very proud. Photo right.
Musical Achievement Congratulations to Shane O’ Malley, a 4th class pupil of Cashel National School who
was selected for the production of the CD Stéibh 2010 -Shane was one of the twelve finalists. He is pictured here at the launch of the CD in Park House Spiddal with his mother Lizzie Ó’ Malley, Máirtín Tom Sheáinín who launched the CD and school Principal Cepta Stephens. Photo courtesy of Enda Noone
Community AGM
chance, agus go n-éirí go geal libh! Photo: Minister Eamon Ó Cuív officially opens the extension, accompanied by Archbishop Dr. Michael Neary, Principal Cepta Stephens and Des Lally, Chairperson of the School Board of Management, and Gavin,
The Annual General Meeting of Comhairle Muintir an Chaiseal Teoranta will take place at the Cashel Community Centre on Monday July 12th at 8pm. Nominations are invited for election to the Board of Directors-please contact Cashel Development Office on 095-31052. The evening will include an open forum to discuss community issues and concerns. Please join us if you have an interest in the future of your community.
FETAC IT Course A number of BTEI participants recently completed an Information Technology FETAC Level 5 Course in the Community Education Centre in Glinsk, Cashel. (L-r): Cecelia Keenan, Cáit Folan, Bridgie Keaney, Sean Foley, Ann Keane, Cathy Curran, Caitlín Cloherty, Joe McDonagh, Mairín Cooke. Photo left courtesy of Su Eldred
Connemara View Newspaper
July 2010
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Claddaghduff/Cleggan Festival of the Sea 2010 This year’s Cleggan Claddaghduff Festival of the Sea is going to be bigger and better than ever! Alongside informative talks, guided nature walks and great fun kids events there’s tag rugby, soccer, fun triathlon and fishing competitions. Some items to watch for include: An Art Exhibition by local artists Caroline Canning and Cathal O’Malley-opening July 30th in Claddaghduff Hall and running for the duration of the Festival. A Marine Themed Lecture by Fergus Cahill and Kevin McShane. Fergus will speak on “How to catch your Whale-the Technology of American Whale fishing in the 19th Century”. Kevin McShane is an experienced diver who dives extensively and has retrieved artefacts from sunken battle-
ships, submarines and WW cargo carriers off the Northwest coast. Claddaghduff Hall on Saturday, July 31st at 8pm. James Morrissey “The Congested Districts Board”-author of the book “On the Verge of Want” will present a slideshow and talk about the lives of the people in the West of Ireland and the survey conducted by the Inspector of the Board in the early 1890’s at Claddaghduff Hall on Thurday, August 5th at 8pm. This year is a prelude to Festival of the Sea 2011, the 30th Anniversary of the formation of the Cleggan Claddaghduff Community Council and the very first Festival of the Sea which took place in 1981. A full schedule of the Festival events is available on www. festivalofthesea.net.There will also be plenty of printed Festival Schedules around town and in local shops so be sure to pick one up.
Claddaghduff Show 2010 The Claddaghduff Pony Show will be held on 8th August 2010 in the Showfield with the first class commencing at 10.30am.
Along with the in hand pony classes there will once again be the popular young handler’s class. In memory of the late Mikey Heffernan there will be a Perpetual Cup for the best turned out pony and this will presented by his wife Mags. Sheep, cattle and dogs will also feature in the show and the crafts are back for the second year with a section for the children, all of whom will receive a rosette. Entry forms for ponies, sheep, cattle and crafts are available from Susan Cockburn, 087-676-8584, or erriswhiterock@hotmail.com and the closing date is 25th July 2010. Crafts can be entered on the day and the dog show entries will be taken on the day. Entries received after this date will not be in the catalogue. Anyone who has perpetual cups to return can make arrangements with Susan at the details above.
Kylemore Outstanding Art at Kylemore Kylemore Abbey launched an exhibition of work by Moycullen based artist Sara Kyne on Saturday July 3rd. In a newly opened room in the main Abbey building, the exhibition is a series of paintings Sara has been exclusively working on over the past 18 months. Sara has created a collection which delighted all in attendance and Mother Máire spoke eloquently of Sara and her wonderfully atmospheric works at the launch. Over 70 people were present and 7 paintings were sold on the night. With unlimited access and over the course of many visits, Sara created a sequence of images depicting the people, ancient pathways, walled gardens, farm, Gothic church, Abbey and landscape of the entire estate to form a rich and vibrant reflection of life at Kylemore. Visitors to Kylemore can continue to enjoy this suite of images in the Abbey as part of their entrance fee for the remainder of July and August. For more information on Sara Kyne and her work see www.sarakyne. net. Photo: Artist Sara Kyne with Mother Máire of Kylemore Abbey at the launch of her exhibition of paintings of the Abbey. Photo courtesy of Bríd Connell
Day Retreat The next retreat at Kylemore Abbey will take place on Saturday July 31st from 10.30am to 3 pm. All are very welcome to attend.
Letterfrack Active Age Funding Ballinakill Active Age Club has been approved for funding of €1740.64 under the Scheme of Community Support for Older People. The Scheme of Community Support for Older People is now closed to applications and has been replaced by the new Seniors Alert Scheme, which will continue to encourage and assist the community’s support for older people by means of community-based grants to improve the safety and security of its older members.
Bog Week 2010 Bog Week is over and it is time to recognise the 178 Fun Run participants; the 400 children who took part in the Heritage in Schools Programme; the 30 artists who participated in the ‘Walk in the Peatlands’ art exhibition; the 80 children who took part in the Primary Soccer Blitz; the 100 cyclists racing our roads; the 50 young musicians, dancers and singers who took part in the Mol an Oige Concert; to the many musicians who came from all over the country, to entertain and bring with them the very best of trad music. Lastly thank you to Hardy for the very moving ‘Lost Boys’ Exhibition.
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July 2010
Connemara View Newspaper
Letterfrack
Clare Hallissey Retires The retirement of Clare Hallissey from Letterfrack National School took place at the school on Friday June 25th, when she was honoured by past and present students, staff and family and the Board of Management. Clare’s contribution to the school was marked by the presentation of a new laptop computer and she was wished well by all and congrat-
ulated on her work down through the years and the impact and great results she achieved during her time there. Photo: Clare Hallissey on her retirement from Letterfrack National School pictured with her family Luka, Emma, Leo, Eabha and Cliodhna.
School Graduation Congratulations to the six students who graduated from Letterfrack National School in June. (L-r): Daniel Kane, Ethan Mortimer, Aisling Sealy-Phelan, Mairead Clarke, Eve O’ Donnell and Laragh Grey. Photos courtesy of Padraic Lyden
Citizens Information Service The Letterfrack Citizen’s Information service will be available at Connemara West (Portacabin 4) on Tuesday 13th and Tuesday 27th of July from 1:30-4:30pm. If you have any questions about Social Welfare, pensions, housing, consumer affairs, employment, education or any of your rights or entitlements call us on 087-130-1100 or just drop in. A wide range of application forms and booklets are also available. For more information call 095-22000 or 087-130-1100. clifden@ citinfo.ie or go to www.citizensinformation.ie.
The playground opened at 4:30pm on Thursday 24th July, much to the delight of the local community and especially the Playground Committee group. Funding for the project has been provided by Galway County Council, St. Anthony’s and the Claddagh Credit Union and the local community who have very generously supported the various fundraising events organised by the committee over the years. The Oughterard Playground’s Official Opening day will take place at the Corribdale grounds at 3pm on Saturday July 10th. A ribbon cutting ceremony will take place at the site of the playground in Corribdale grounds at 3pm and this will then be followed by a fun day with music and bouncy castles and other fun activities for all ages. All are welcome to attend on what will be a great day for all the family in Oughterard.
Carers Week Event
Kathleen Kane, Mikie Kane. Front (l-r): Joe O’ Neill, John McLoughlin, Paddy Flaherty, Patrick James Conneely, Jenny Conboy, Pauline Mortimer, Bridie Cashin, Willie Hughes, Susan Kane, Bernie Curley.Not pictured: Adrian Acton, Tom Kane and Monica Wallace. Photo above courtesy of Padraic Lyden
Eagle’s Nest’s Four Flags Eagle’s Nest NS was recently conferred with its fourth Green Flag at the An Taisce Awards Ceremony in Galway recently. 4th class students Ciara Walsh (left) and Rebecca Mullen travelled to the awards ceremony with Principal Paul Gannon to receive the award. The flag was raised at the school on Monday June 21st in dazzling sunshine and the great work the pupils have done to achieve this fourth Green Flag was praised by Green Schools Sustainable Travel Development Officer Graham Clarke. Photos courtesy of Paul Gannon
In June, Oughterard carers took part in a Stress Management Workshop as part of National Carers Week at The Connemara Gateway Hotel, Oughterard. National Carers Week is an annual event which aims to celebrate and recognise the enormous contribution to society made by carers. Photo: Back (l-r): Siobhán McDonagh, Maureen Coyne, Patrick Joyce, Teresa Conroy, Bridie O’Connor, Sharon Deering, Training Unit Manager, The Carers Association, Carol O’Brien, Michelle Harrison, Manager, Carers Department, HSE West, Galway, Bríd Conneely, Norah Coyne, Lifeskills Consultant and Tutor. Front (l-r):
Oughterard
Ógras Chéad Áit Buaidh Óg Ógras Uachtar Ard an chéad aít i gComórtas Ealáine & Filíocht 2010 a bhí eagraithe ag Ógras. Sa pictúir tá Treasa Uí Ghiobuin
Patricia Keane, Paula Gormley, Bridget Gavin, Rose Brennan, Bernie Flynn, Noreen McDonagh, Carmel Donlan. Photo courtesy of HSE West
Water Scheme Progress Galway County Council has informed Cllr. Thomas Welby that they will allow the Srue Group Water Scheme to progress to construction. The construction of this scheme will supply approx. sixteen houses with treated water from the Buffy water supply and it will involve the laying of approx. two kilometers of water mains. Cllr. Welby has been working with this group for the last number of years to progress this scheme.
Renvyle (Cathaoirleach), Brenda Uí Dhrioighneán (Oifigeach Caidreamh Poiblí Connacht), Eimear Ní Chonaill, Sean Ó Conaill agus Laoise Ní Ghiobuin. Photo le Tom Broderick
Oughterard Playground Opened! After years of planning, the gates of the Oughterard Community playground have finally been opened to the public.
Connemara View Newspaper
40 Years of Tullycross Credit Union The Board of Management of Tullycross Credit Union celebrated the 40th anniversary of the founding of the Union in June with a special event at Renvyle House Hotel. Photo:(back l-r) Joe O’Toole, Sean Birmingham, Angela Courcey, Tom Mongan, Cormac Duffy, Pat Sullivan, Mark Bailey, Paddy Gannon, Tim O Sullivan, Bernie Laffey,
July 2010
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Arts Weekend 2010
Renvyle
The opening at Errisbeg House of Brenda Malley’s new seascapes painting was a great success, not talking about sales, but the potential advertising for Roundstone with
Local Roadworks
Weddings Congratulations to Simon Ashe and Anne Pryce who were married on Friday June 11th in Roundstone with reception at Errisbeg House. Congratulations to Michael Ferron also, son of Michael John and Catherine, who was married in Longford. We wish you long and happy lives together.
Ros Muc guest speaker Monty Hall and the BBC2 crew. Monty showed some clips of his work around the west from the last few weeks in conjunction with Brenda’s paintings. On the Saturday at Ballinahinch Castle we had Claire Wallace, soprano singer accompanied by Dr Deborah Armstrong on the piano which was superb. Sunday saw music in the street with Some Like it Hot, a disco for the kids on the playground, and then Marcus Hernon and his two boys. It was just like an Irish night only outdoors by the flag poles, which drew a great crowd with our local ladies dancing and our young Meadhbh O’Neill. More photos of the various events will be up on the Roundstone website. Although everything went smoothly it has to be said that for July there were not so many people around, the only consolation however at least we have kept the Arts week alive, so hopefully we will have a full week for the year 2011. Photo: Dancing by the flagpoles over the Arts Weekend. Photo courtesy of Richard de Stacpoole
Fr. McCarthy
Roundstone
Pony Show and Regatta We have a very busy weekend coming up, starting with Friday the 9th July with the Selection of a Roundstone Pony Show Queen in The Shamrock. If anybody wants to sponsor a young lady just give Paddy the Yank a call for all the details on 095-35833. Saturday 10th is the start of the Regatta, with the sailing races at 2pm sharp, naturally weather permitting and the rowing races are on the 17th and 18th of July. Then of course we have the Roundstone Pony Show this Sunday the 11th which will take place at the Farrell’s Field Showgrounds in Roundstone, with classes starting at 10am sharp. Judging of the Sheep show will start at noon and the Dog Show will begin at 1:30pm. Entries for both will be taken on the day. There will be great prizes for the Domestic Arts classes which are sponsored this year by The Connemara View and the list of classes can be seen at www.roundstoneevents.com. Entries will be accepted on the morning of the show at a fee of €3 from 10-12pm with judging and prize giving taking place between 2pm and 3pm. There will also be stalls, music and great fun for all the family. For more information contact Paddy McDonagh at 095-35833.
Traffic Lights The Traffic Lights in the village will be back with us for this year in July. It was hoped not to have them, as there was going to be a traffic management plan with the GCC in place for June, but unfortunately this did not materialise, hence the return of the lights.
Galway County Council has carried out resurfacing work on the Lettergesh Road recently. Cllr. Eileen Mannion said that the recent work carried out on the Lettergesh Road is very welcome as the road had been in a very bad condition for some time. Cllr. Mannion also said that the use of ‘black top’ on the road would ensure that the road will remain in good condition for years to come. Badly needed resurfacing work has also taken place on the Inagh Valley road. Grúpa fir as ceantar Chonamara a rinne cúrsa i gCothabháil agus Deisiú Trealamh Iascaireachta FETAC léibhéal 5 ag Ionad Breisoideachais Ros Muc. Bhí an cúrsa seo dhá riaradh ag Coiste Gairmoideachais Chondae na Gaillimhe agus Bord Iascaigh Mhara. Ó chlé bhí: Micheál Éinniú, Peadar Ó Maoildhia, Nollaig Ó Gríofa, Tommy Ó Cualáin, Morgan Ó Maolchiaráin, Cormac McGinley (Teagascóir, BIM), Risteard Mac Donnacha agus Máirtín Éinniú. Pictiur le Mairéad Seóige, Coordnóir Ionad Breisoideachais Ros Muc.
to try and provide this facility for the summer, ie portaloo’s in preparation for the possibility of a blue flag. Dogs Bay was officially awarded the green flag for the year 2010 which is now official, so well done to the Beach committee.
Unfortunately its Father John’s last mass on Sunday the 11th as he retires to Knock on the 16th July. After the mass, a few words will be said to bid him farewell, then the Ladies of Roundstone have arranged a little party in the lower Community Hall to give people a chance to shake him by the hand to wish him well and make a presentation.
Tidy Towns Roundstone Village is looking good and as an added bonus, Maggie’s corner is cleared out and we will have to plant the boat. The Galway side entrance to the village has been streamlined which makes a huge difference. Everyone is making a great effort this year and I have never seen so many flowers in the village before.
Fun Run The Roundstone Fun Run took place on a glorious day on June 6th. Well done to all the kids and adults who took part and enjoyed the day. Lots of photos can be seen on the website www.roundstone.ie
School Graduation Congratulations to the students of Scoil Éinne Roundstone who graduated from the school in June-Clara Mongan, Chloe Walsh, Clara King, Tony Freeman, Dylan Keaney and Kieran Conneely. Sadly there are no new comers for this year, possibly the first time ever. Muinteoir Michael McDonagh spoke highly of the outgoing students and reflected on his first year as principal. He also spoke of the refurbishing of the national school which will start during the summer holiday period. A presentation was made to Fr. McCarthy and to the two outgoing outstanding parents who did so much for the school in the past, Ger Coyne and Theresa Conneely. Refreshments were prepared and served by the mothers of the children and I must add that all students were a credit to their parents and teachers that day. Photos can be seen on the roundstone.ie website. Richard De Stacpoole & Ann Conneely
School Visit On Tuesday June 8th, the staff of The Connemara View visited Scoil Éinne in Roundstone, where senior class students learned about the process of making a newspaper and also about Editor Ellen’s electric car. A great question and answer session took place with some journalists and business people of the future making a great impression.
Graveyard At this time more and more people visit our cemetery in Gurteen but I was shocked at the neglected appearance of the graveyard on a recent visit. It is up to each individual person to take care of their own graves and surrounding area. Next time you are visiting a graveside do bring a black sack along with you and dispose of all broken items from your grave in a proper manner. It is the least we can do for our departed love ones.
RDC meeting The Roundstone Development Council had their June monthly meeting in the Community Hall. An issue discussed was the toilet situation for the beaches, representatives of the committee are talking with GCC
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July 2010
Congratulations to Martin Connolly of Doogher, Carna who celebrated his 80th birthday at Glynsk House recently. He is pictured here with (standing) (l-r): Pat Mullen, Paddy Yank McDonagh and (seated l-r): Martin Conneely and Paddy Shoulders McDonagh.
Connemara View Newspaper
Connemara U 14 All Ireland Winners The Under 14 Galway girls football team that beat Dublin 4-9 to 3-11 to capture the Under 14 All Ireland Title in Kiltoom on Saturday June 12th featured no less than six players from Connemara clubs. Pictured with their All Ireland Cup are (l-r): Aoibhinn Joyce (1-1), Clonbur, Ciana Ní Churraoin (1-1), Micheal Breathnach, Niamh Ní Chualainn, Leitirmóir, Shannon Keady, Moycullen, Ciara Lynagh, Bearna, and Katie Carter (1-2), Moycullen. Photo courtesy of Paddy Meagher
Naomh Fechin Hit Form Naomh Fechin An Clochan 2-9 Monivea Abbey 1-9 Clifden advanced to the quarter final of the Intermediate Championship with a three point victory over Monivea Abbey on Saturday July 3rd in Clonbur. Clifden got the first two points of the match from Jack Vaughan and a Niall Black free. Monivea Abbey replied with a point and on the Clifden next attack Jack Vaughan got a goal after an excellent pass from Tom O’ Brien. Points from Niall Black and two from Sean Joyce pushed Clifden further ahead. Monivea responded with a good well taken goal and three points and just before half time Mark O’Shaughnessy got another point for Clifden. The half time score was Clifden 1-6 to Monivea Abbey 1-4. Sean Joyce got Clifden’s first point of the second half and this was followed by Clifden’s second goal after a free from Niall Black ended up in the back of the Monivea Abbey net. Monivea responded with some nice points of their own, but Clifden came back again with points from Brian Flaherty and another great free from Niall Black. This put Clifden five points ahead and with time almost up Monivea Abbey again replied with two points. This left just three point between the teams for a tense finale. Finally the ref blew the final whistle to end a great display of football by the two teams. A second Championship win for Clifden puts them into the draw for the Quarter Finals in a few weeks time. Naomh Feichin An Clochan also won their Junior C Championship Match against Renvyle 3-7 to 0-13 in Carna on Sunday July 4th. In the Minor Football Championship on Wednesday June 30th in Oughterard, Naomh Feichin An Clochan comfortably prevailed over Fr Griffins / Eire Og on a scoreline of 5-15 to 1-4. On July 14th the Naomh Fechin U 14 side also enjoyed a good victory over Athenry. Well done lads and keep up the great work! Tony Coyne
Photo above: The Naomh Fechin Under 11’s team who recently played in Pearse Stadium in the City League Blitz. A great day was had by all with each player receiving a County Medal.
Clifden GAA Summer Camp
Geansaithe Nua San bpictiúr tá Seán Ó Loideáin ag bronnadh geansaithe ar Cathaoirleach Peil na mBan An Cheathrú Rua, Máire Áine Nic Dhonncha agus ar na cailíní Faoi 12 agus Faoi 14. Pictiúr le Neasa Mhic Dhonncha Connemara Rugby AGM Connemara R.F.C had a well attended A.G.M at the Station House Hotel Clifden on Thursday the 27th May. President Aidan O’ Halloran was congratulated on his election as Junior President of the Connacht R.F.C. This means that in a few years he will be the Senior President of the Connacht Branch. The committee for the new season is as follows: President: Aidan O’Halloran, Vice President: Des Fogerty,
Connemara SportsView
Hon. Secretary: Irene King, Assist. Secretary: James Staunton, Treasurer: Mary Lydon, Assist. Treasurer: Chris Shanahan, Fixtures Secretary: Gerry King, Membership Secretary: Pete Smyth, Head Coach: Bernard Keaney, Junior Coach: Gerry King, Team Manager: Joe O’Connell, PRO: Matt O’Sullivan, Branch Delegates: Des Fogerty, Peter Keane, Pete Smyth & Charlie Bourke, Child Welfare Officer: Irene King, Hon. Medical Officer: Dr. John Casey, Pitch Committee Chairman: Tommy
A GAA Summer Camp for boys and girls aged 7-14 years old will take place at the Clifden GAA pitch from Monday July 19th to Friday July 23rd. Participants will have the chance to improve their skills and avail of great coaching and supervision by coaches and older players throughout the week between 10am and 2:30pm daily. Registration Day is Saturday July 17th at the pitch from 11am to 1pm and all are welcome.
Coyne, Lotto Committee Chairman: Peter Keane, General Committee: Rory O’Toole, Gerry Delaney, Breda Coneys, P.J Heffernan, John Sheridan, Mark Foyle and Pat Shanahan. Sympathies The Connemara R.F.C have sympathised with the Lydon family on the recent death of Ms. Lena Lydon. Her son Pat was a stalwart player for the team. She was predeceased by her son Peter, also a great player and club member. Continued on Page 11
July 2010
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Fundraising Triathlon
Badminton
The 2nd annual Claddaghduff Community Hall Triathlon took place on Saturday, June 26th. It is safe to say that the event was a spectacular success from all angles. It started off with the 4.5 km swim from Acton’s Beach in Claddaghduff and there were 27 swimmers; a combination of individuals and teams. The fastest swim was 38 minutes by Jason Milne of Dublin followed closely by Padraic Marrey of Swinford with a swim time of 44 minutes. Kate Harris of Dublin was the fastest lady swimmer with a time of 43 minutes. Jason Milne was the overall winner and was presented with a fabulous perpetual trophy sculpted by John Coll which depicts a swimmer, runner and cyclist intertwined in bronze and mounted on a piece of Connemara marble. There was great local participation in the Triathlon this year with some very promising competitors. A few to watch next year would be Richard O’Neill, Clifden with an overall time of 1 hour and 57 minutes and Kevin Ward, Claddaghduff with an overall time of 2 hours and 8 minutes. Simon Ashe, Feichin Walsh and Patrick Conneely were the winning team and have set a time of 1 hour and 46 minutes to beat next year! The Hall Committee would like to acknowledge the support of absolutely everybody in the community who contributed in so many ways to making the event such a resounding success. The prizegiving ceremony took place in Sweeney’s Bar afterwards where the prizes were presented by Aughris native Jack Cosgrove who was Footballer of the Year in 1969 and a Galway All Star in 1971. Photos: Winning Lady Derbhal Spillane who was home in a time of 2 hours. Triathlon Winner Jason Milne with a time of 1 hour 34 minutes-first man home and completed the 4.5 km swim in 38mins. Claddaghduff Community Triathlon Winning Team with a combined time of 1 hour 46 mins (l-r): Simon Ashe, Jack Cosgrove, Feichín Walsh, Patrick Conneely. Photos courtesy of Richard Conneely
The Bog Week 2010 badminton competition saw some great games played out with the ‘Derryinver’ Team eventually claiming the Cup while the ‘Omey’ team took the Shield. In the Youths competition, the Conamara Thiar Lions won the Cup, while the Conamara Thiar Tigers took the Shield home. Photos left: Top- Bog Week 2010 Badminton Cup winners, Derryinver. (L-r): Paul Gannon, Angie Williams,
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Luke Gannon, Jimmy Mongan. Bottom- Bog Week 2010 Badminton Shield winners, Omey. (L-r): Tim Warbout, Sally Gannon, Collette Gannon, Feichín Walsh. Photos right: Top- The Conamara Thiar Lions Bog Week Cup winners. Bottom- The Conamara Thiar Tigers Bog Week Shield winners. Photos courtesy of Paul Gannon
Clifden Volleyball Club
Angling Good catch! The break from the dry spell of weather on Thursday July 1st had anglers all over Connemara preparing to head out fishing. Nickolas Gaey landed this six pound salmon at Simon’s pool in Clifden on the morning of Friday July 2nd. Photo courtesy of Alan McDonnell
Memorial Fishing Fundraiser On Sunday June 13th the Oughterard Anglers and Boatmans Association hosted a mountain lakes fishing competition in memory of Tom (Mahongy) Walsh. 116 anglers took part in the event in aid of Cancer Care West and the total sum collected was €1,080 as well as €100 donated by the angling club. Pictured are Andy Walsh, Tom’s son and Tom Tuck with a cheque for Cancer Care West of €1,080. Photo by Tom Broderick
July 2010
The Clifden Volleyball Club has been going from strength to strength in recent months. A local committee was set up in March and three youth age category classes and one adult class time began in April which have proven extremely popular with numbers increasing regularly. This is no surprise to the committee members who are keen to promote volleyball as an ideal indoor sport that is accessible to everyone in Connemara all throughout the year. It is the intention of the club to promote the Clifden and Connemara area extensively through competition and future developments and as the third most popular sport in the world after soccer and basketball, the potential is huge. Clifden Volleyball Club is currently in the process of developing a Ladies team to compete for the Irish National Ladies Volleyball trophy to coincide with the Clifden 2012 celebrations and is keen to expand leagues and classes all over Connemara to achieve this goal. New players are always welcome as well as committee members and anyone interested in getting involved in any way is asked to contact John at 087-750-4697 or ljohna8@yahoo.com or Marek at 086-201-4403. For more information see www.clifdenvolleyball.hostoi.com.
Next Issue August 5th
Connemara SportsView
Tug Of War: Championship of Ballinakill The recent Tug Of War Championship in honour of Jimmy and Paddy Faherty, Renvyle R.I.P. and Mikey Nugent, Cleggan R.I.P was held on The Green, Letterfrack on Saturday June 5th and it proved to be a tremendous success. A large crowd attended the event and was delighted to see Tug Of War back on the scene again in Connemara after a long absence. There were teams, both women’s and men’s from Renvyle and Cleggan. Also participating were some of the crew of Single Handed, the TV programme which is being made in the area. The day was organised and held in a very professional manner and all enjoyed it. This was despite the arrival of rain and midges to annoy spectators. Somehow Tug Of War pullers did not seem to notice-tough blood-or perhaps good midge spray?! It has to be said that the winning cups seemed to find their way home-Cleggan women being the winners of the Mikey Nugent Memorial Cup and Des Wallace’s Renvyle team taking the Jimmy and Paddy Faherty Memorial Cup. All three men were great Tug Of War men in their time and some of their grown children now carry on the tradition in their memory. Well done to all the team members and their
coaches for providing such a fitting tribute. Patricia Keane (losing team!) Photo bottom left: The Cleggan winning women’s team and Mikey Nugent Memorial Cup winners 2010: (l-r): Geraldine O’ Toole, Brid Conneely, Emer McNamara, Tina Shannon, Mary Jo Nugent, Sheila Elcock. Front (l-r): Kate McNamara, Catherine Aspell, Maura Nugent, Rebecca Aspell, Roisin Conneely. Below: The Renvyle B runners up in the Mikey Nugent Memorial Cup.
Photo above left: The Renvyle winning men’s team and Paddy and Jimmy Faherty Memorial Cup winners 2010: Back (l-r): Michael McDonnell, Mark Walsh, Rory Coyne, Philip Wallace, and Leo McGreal. Front (l-r): Pat McDonnell, Marcus Fitzpatrick, Des Wallace and Peter Wallace. Above: The runners up in the Paddy and Jimmy Faherty Memorial Cup. Photos courtesy of Paul Gannon
Connemara Golf Club Captain’s Prize Dr John Casey presents the Captain’s prize to Bro. Vivian Cotter. Photo courtesy of Padraic Lyden
Connemara Rugby continued from page 9 The club also has sympathised with the McDonagh family of Cleggan on the recent death of John McDonagh. His son Ian is a very accomplished prop forward with the Community School Clifden and Connemara’s under twenties team. Both families have been stalwart supporters since the club was formed in 1974. Br. Vivian Brother Vivian Cotter of the Franciscan Monastery Clifden and a Connemara R.F.C club founder won Dr. John Casey’s Captains Prize at Connemara Golf Links on Sunday the 27th July. Br. ‘Viv’ was a great coach with Connemara but was also a very firm and tactful referee. Club News Bernard Keaney addressed a recent meeting of Connemara R.F.C and outlined his ambitions for the coming season. A few recruits have been signed and it is hoped to widen the experience of our many great local players during the coming season in the All Ireland League & Connacht Competition. Liam Keogh arrived home on Wednesday the 30th June from his tour with the Irish Rugby Team to Australia and New Zealand. He gave a very vivid description of the
Connemara SportsView
itinerary and met former Connemara Coach Dick Laffan as well as Rachel Wallace of Clifden. He was happy with the display of the Connacht players and built up a rapport with some of the Irish officials. Connemara players are doing very well this season at under age level. The young Connemara players who have been selected onto Connacht Rugby Squads are: Mark Gavin, Chris Heneghan, Cathal Heanue, Roddy O’Donnell and Stephen Mullen (U17 Squad), Patrick King (U16 Squad), James O’Toole, Thomas Joyce, Matthew Gavin (U15 squad). It was very sad that Connemara’s Tiernan O’ Halloran had to return home from the under 20’s World Cup in Argentina as he suffered an injury. We were all looking forward to seeing him line out at No. 14 in the game against England. He was sadly missed. Tiernan also helped Ireland win this year’s Six Nations under 20’s competition with some speedy and intelligent rugby. He was also on the Connacht Senior Team at the end of the season. We wish him a prosperous rugby season after a deserved summers rest. Membership Peter Smith our membership secretary will be shortly looking to sign up as many as possible from all age groups and genders. Also there is lots of room in our 300 Club
July 2010
Membership-a draw each month for €120 per year or €10 per month direct debit. Congratulations Congratulations to Jimmy Screen and Becky Gavin on the recent birth of their son Thomas. Jimmy who played for Connacht and Ireland A on a good number of occasions gave valuable help to Connemara in the second half of the season to retain their AIL Status. This helped coach/player Bernard Keaney to fully concentrate during the games. As usual Bernard was a true Connemara sportsman doing his work with diligence and great success. It’s a great club getting better. Matt O’ Sullivan
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Connemara Pony Scene Around the Shows
The 2010 show season kicked off at Balmoral on a bitterly cold day in May. The Connemara Judges were Robbie Fallon from Cashel Stud and Claire Oakes from Meath. Frances O’Reilly’s Deirdre Glenmore Kelly’s Own was crowned Supreme Champion. At Claremorris Jarlath and Joanne Grogan won the Championship with their stallion Mountain Cascade (Laerkens Cascade Dawn-Mountain Lady) who stood ahead of Patrick Connelly’s Errismore Rocky (Currachmore Cashel-Gold Label). Roundford had some nice ponies and the Championship was awarded to Michael Moran’s Rocklawn Lady (Maam Hill-Pocahontas). Robbie Fallon’s stallion Cashelbay Cruise (I Love You Melody-Coosheen Pheasant) was Reserve. On the same day, Ballinalee in Co. Longford attracted a number of entries from the West. The two to three year old stallion class saw Errismore Rocky pulled in first ahead of Declan Ridge from Cashel exhibiting Earl of Cloniff (Earl of Newbridge –Sonoma). The yearling filly section provided Oughterard breeder Joan Geoghegan Burke with a nice filly for the future when Creggrush Hanna (Bunowen Bobby-Dianes Choice) exhibited by P.J.Burke took the red rosette. The Supreme Champion was Banks Vanilla who completed a unique double for Sean Dunne of Garryhinch stud who also won the Junior Championship with his bay Garryhinch Swallow by Monaghanstown Boy; her dam Coosheen Cuckoo was bred by Mrs Petch. Westport provided plenty of pointers for the future as large classes came in front of judges by Michael Casey and Niamh Melody. Patrick King from Errislannan collected with his yearling filly Derryeighter Freya (Linsford Barney-Pride of the West) and Caillin Conneely from Roundstone won a strong two year-old filly class with Letterdyfe Rachel Rose (Hazy Match-Letterdyfe Rose). Mairtin Nee from Cashel took the Junior Championship with his yearling colt Doonreghan Marty (Coolilaun Cushlaun-Doonreghan Star). Beech King (Monaghanstown Boy-Beech Girl) owned and exhibited by Val Noone from Claregalway stood Reserve. Damien Gorham from Bunowen produced Doonhill Queen (Currachmore Cashel-Connemara Lady) in pristine condition and was awarded the three to four year-old mare class. By the time the Supreme Champion, Eamon Burke’s Manninard Sprigeen (Tulira Robuck-Tara iv) and Reserve Champion Currachcourt Lady ( Clonbern Boy-Clydagh Marie) owned and exhibited by Padraic Hynes was judged, most spectators had gone home and one must ponder at the wisdom of staging Ridden classes after the In-hand classes before deciding on the championship. Why not a separate Ridden Champion? Boswell in Co. Wicklow, under judges Sean Dunne and Henrietta Knight held a new show which was supported by several exhibitors from Connemara. Padraic Hynes made his long journey worthwhile when winning the Supreme Championship with Village Heather (Boden Park Finnard-Village Girl) and also the qualifier for the All Ireland Foal Championship at Portadown with her strapping foal by Clooshgreen Prince. Caillin Conneely from Roundstone was delighted after winning
the Junior Championship with Glencarrig Rose Marie (Glencarrig Prince-April Rose). She stood ahead of Tom MacLochlainn’s two year-old Ashbrook Orga (Frederiksminde Hazy Match-Blue Rose) who was also Reserve Supreme Champion. The Southern Connemara Breeders held an excellent show in Cork. Judge Jimmy Canavan did a lovely job in spite of the intense heat all day. His Champion was Pat Rabbitt’s Monaghanstown Prince (Glencarrig Prince-Monaghanstown Sheeba) with Tom MacLochlainn’s Junior Champion Ashbrook Orga as Reserve. Corrandulla lived up to its reputation as a top class venue when a selection of quality ponies was well judged by Heather Wright. Ann Conroy’s Glencarrig Lexus remained at the top of the line in a strong stallion class. The Supreme sash was awarded to Kieran McGrath’s Hazlerock Star (Glencarrig Prince-Smokey Star); she was also Junior Champion, and “Star” carries the best of the old bloodlines established by the late Murty McGrath. P.J.Burke’s Creggrush Realta, (Castlestrange Fionn-Cailin Dana was Reserve Champion. Tom Clancy from Oughterard produced a nice yearling filly Loughcoon Daisy (I Love You Melody-Loughwell Molly) to win her class. The three to four year old mare’s class had a quality line up. Michael Holmes from Goulane, Clifden took red with Cnocban Sasha (Hazy Match-Beatrice). At Athenry a howling gale did not deter a strong Connemara challenge owing to the cancellation of the Maam Cross show. Judged by Padraig Heanue and Joe McNamara, their Supreme Champion was Currachcourt Lady owned by Padraic Hynes, with their Junior Champion Glencarrig Rose Marie expertly exhibited by Martina Conneely as Reserve. Seamus Keady from Spiddal produced his well-balanced Shanna Rose ( JanusGleann Rua Sea Mist) who took the red from Kieran McGrath’s Hazlerock Star. In a good two year old colt or gelding class Stephen Fahy from Claregalway produced a handsome newcomer, Ben Baun Cracker Jack (True Commotion-Ben Baun Glen Sally). Robbie Fallon’s Cashelbay Cruise secured the Stallion class and a delighted Bridget Snow had her new acquisition Silver Queen (Village King-Knock Queen) looking a picture when winning the small mares class. Esther Feeney’s Danesfield Heather and Bernard Keaney’s Murvey Cara both booked their ticket to the Midlands All Ireland Brood Mare final. Note: Sean Dunne has asked me to clarify that I incorrectly stated in another publication that he won the Supreme Championship at Clifden twice, when in fact it should have read Clifden Stallion class. This was my mistake and I apologise. Photos from top: Padraic Hynes with Village Heather who was Supreme Champion at the Boswell Show in Wicklow. Judge Heather Wright and Kieran McGrath with Hazelrock Star who won both the Junior and Supreme Championships at Corrandulla. Glencarrig Lexus, winner of the stallion class at Corrandulla with Sean Conroy. Michael Holmes with mare Cnoc Ban Sasha who won at Corrandulla. Briget Snow with Silver Queen who won the 13-2 and under class at Athenry. Noel Nee with Doonreghan Marty was Junior Champion at Westport. Patrick Conneely with Errismore Rocky, Reserve Champion Stallion at Ballinalee. Glencarrig Rose Marie with Caillin Conneely and Judges Henrietta Knight and Sean Dunne at Boswell. Photos & results courtesy of Ruth Rogers
All Ireland Broodmare Championship The Midlands Connemara Breeders are pleased to announce two new sponsors for their annual show at Annaharvey Farm, Tullamore on Sunday July 25th commencing at 9.30 a.m.Chairman John Moran said “The Midlands group are indebted to Manor Connemara Ponies in Clifden, owned by breeder Noel Noonan who are the new overall show sponsor”. The Offaly based company Glenisk Organic Dairy Products have taken over the All Ireland Broodmare Championship from Clifden Connemara Pony Sales. Following qualifiers at shows throughout Ireland, this final brings together in one ring many of Ireland’s elite breeding stock with their foals who will come before the judges. The winner will receive the Lady de Vescy Perpetual Cup kindly presented to the show in her memory. Her son Lord Tom de Vescy is planning to travel from London to present the trophy this year. The Supreme Championship and the Open Stallion class both carry a prize fund of €500 and in addition there will be 23 In-hand classes and 9 Performance Classes. The Performance section features the Sarah Miller Future Performance Championship and the Ridden classes sponsored by Jim Derwin Bloodstock, include a warm up for the R.D.S. Working Hunter Performance Championship. Entries close July 14th. For further information contact Entry Secretary Eilish Durcan, 085-163-6843. Secretary: Mary Rabbitt 044-922-6489, P.R.O. Ruth Rogers 097-254-0164 or email rodgersruth@eircom.net
Racing Like the summer, the horse racing season is galloping by and the local meetings are fast approaching with the Ballyconneely races on July 31st and Omey races on August 1st. Tuam is also approaching, as well as the annual pilgrimage to Dingle, the mecca of racing where local horse King Kenny had a great win last year. Following their previous successes Ronaldo (7) and King Kenny (6) of the McNamara stable in Goulane both went on to score at Ballinasloe on June 6th and King Kenny won again in Kinnegad on June 20th where Ronaldo was a creditable second. New 7 year old Prince of Thieves is also a recent addition to the McNamara yard. Pebble Beach, owned by local man Gabriel McNamara has been getting in the frame as of late, with two third place finishes from three runs no mean achievement. Support has been growing recently in the Connemara area with horses from Oughterard and Moycullen now joining the aclien, which will surely make local meetings all the more interesting!
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July 2010
Connemara SportsView
Connemara View 2010 A Connemara View Publication Clifden, Co. Galway 095-22888 www.connemaraview.com Writers & Production Sta Ellen McDonough, Catherine Pryce & Paula Bann Photographers Shane Bisgood, Aoife Herriott, Ellen McDonough, Paula Bann & Catherine Pryce Cover Photo: The Coral Strand, Ballyconneely
Summer Fun Magazine Table of Contents
The Ultimate Beach Guide .......................... 4 Activities...................................................... 5 Gorgeous Drives .......................................... 6 Must See Places........................................... 7 Summer Events ........................................... 8 Walking & Cycling ..................................... 9 Shopping Guide ...............................10 & 11 Restaurant & Pub Guide ........................... 12 Pampering & Accommodation.................. 13 History & Archaeology ............................. 14 Nature........................................................ 15
The rugged coastline of Connemara is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, if not the world, with almost endless options for exploring and beachcombing. You will never be too far from a stunning beach, whether to soak up the sun and take a dip in the Atlantic, enjoy a picnic, or to feel the wind and salty air in your hair while enjoying a walk on a remote hidden strand. South Connemara has a seemingly endless atmospheric and windswept craggy shoreline and some wonderful beaches just waiting to be explored. Taking the Coast Road from Galway, Silver Strand is well worth a stop with wonderful rock pools, toilet facilities and limited parking. Following the road, Furbo and Spiddal also have fine sandy stretches worth exploring. Trá an Doilín in the Gaeltacht (Irish speaking) area of An Cheathrú Rua (Carraroe) is a particularly outstanding beach, with a Blue Flag for excellent standards and a lifeguard on duty during summer months. It is also noted for its very fine coral sand and is a hot spot for all sorts of water sports. An Trá Mór, near Indreabhan (Inverin) also boasts a Blue Flag and as the name suggests (mór is Irish for ‘big’), it is a vast expanse of soft sand. In the Carna area, Moyrus and Fennish beaches are calm and peaceful and ideal for rambling around. The impressive vistas of Gurteen and Dog’s Bay lie back to back on the outskirts of Roundstone village. Gurteen is the larger of the two and has a lifeguard on duty in the summer season. Naturally protected by a headland it is a safe and popular destination for many holidaymakers on hot days. The two beaches are separated by grassy dune areas in which marram grass has been planted in an attempt to stem tidal erosion so visitors are requested to avoid walking through, and instead take the route around the wild headland, where you will be surrounded by water on three sides. Signs are in place advising on the above. Dog’s Bay is also renowned for its bright white sands, which is composed of millions of microscopic shells and was awarded a Green Coast Award this year. Roundstone’s twin gems are two of the finest beaches in Connemara and so are naturally popular spots on sunny days with visitors and locals alike. The Ballyconneely area has superb and varied beaches to suit all tastes. The Coral Strand on the main Clifden to Ballyconneely Road is comprised of large coral sand and is a slightly warmer spot than many others for a swim. In the general Ballyconneely area, almost any turn towards the coastline will lead you at a super beach. Aillebrack beach, near the Golf Club is wonderful; while Mannin beach’s Caribbean clear waters and sandy dunes are a favourite for families. Another local favourite for walking, swimming and water sports is Doonloughan with vast sandy dunes, perfect for finding your own spot and getting away from it all. On arrival into Clifden a popular walk is the Beach Road loop walk (approx 4km-1 hour walk) from which Clifden Bay and beach can be seen. While Clifden Bay and its scenery are undoubtedly impressive, the bathing water quality is less so, so those looking to swim and splash are advised to visit some of the many other beaches in the West Connemara area. One such beach is Eyrephort, located at the end of the famous Sky Road and facing the islands of Inishturk and Turbot. A local favourite with a combination of large rocky banks and a straight stretch of firm sand, it is a popular spot for a dip on a sunny day but can be more breezy than sheltered. One of the most intriguing coastal areas in Connemara is undoubtedly Omey Strand in Claddaghduff, which separates Omey Island from the mainland at high tide. You can drive across the strand, but make sure to check the tide times before doing so in case of getting your car stranded (it has happened many times!). It is also a popular destination for ponies and riders out on treks, with the Omey races taking place on the Strand on August 1st- a great fun day out and an opportunity to maybe even back a winner! The Cleggan and Claddaghduff area also boasts wonderful
and unique beaches. A sign on the Rossadillisk road, signposted between Claddaghduff and Cleggan villages reads ‘Rossadillisk-Welcome to Paradise’ and the vast expanse of sandy beach and rock pools certainly delivers on the claim. The rocks and huge boulders are home to many little pools full of interesting nooks and crannies perfect for exploration by kids. Sallerna beach outside of Cleggan is another gem just off the main road, again popular with both locals and visitors alike. North Connemara provides some of the most dramatic landscapes in Connemara as the peaks of the surrounding hills and mountains overlook vast expanses of turquoise waters and sandy beaches. Lettergesh is deservedly renowned for its series of beautiful beaches overlooked by the majestic Mweelrea Mountain. The horse racing scene from The Quiet Man featuring John Wayne was also filmed here. Glassilaun is another star of Renvyle’s beaches and is popular with water sports enthusiasts. North Connemara also provides some excellent dive sites in crystal clear waters. Nearer to Tully village is the much loved White Strand. Safe and peaceful it is rarely too bustling with people-the sheer size and scope of Connemara’s sandy beaches and shores means that you will almost always find a peaceful spot just for you. Naturally, beaches are one of the highlights of a visit to the island of Inishbofin with the East End beach once again receiving the European Green Coast Award this year. Water sports, nature watching and exploring the cliffs and unspoilt extremities of the island make the beaches of ‘Bofin a must. Not all of the beaches around ‘Bofin are suitable for swimming however, check with locals or at the Community Centre to be safe. One thing is for sure, Connemara can truly be described as having some of the most spectacular coastline, beaches, coves and strands in the world. As it would quite literally be impossible to list them all here, the above are just some of the better known beaches of the area-there are countless more. Don’t be put off if the sun is not shining at its brightest either; a good bracing walk in the wind complete with lungs full of fresh sea air is the ideal way to burn off any holiday indulgences, or indeed work up a good appetite for more!
Remember!
• Never swim alone or where there are strong currentsalways ask locally for advice if in doubt. • Keep Connemara’s beaches beautiful-take your litter home with you if you can’t find a bin. • Respect any signs in areas you are visiting-they are there for a reason. • Park appropriately, not blocking gateways and take care not to damage property such as walls, fences or agricultural land. • Keep noise levels to a minimum out of consideration for others and animals in the area. • Keep dogs under close control and respect farm animals by keeping your distance. • Don’t leave food scraps for wild animals- our food is not their food and can damage them. • If camping, try to leave your site as you found it or better. • Preserve the past and conserve the present-do not tamper with or attempt to move archaeological monuments or old walls. Leave rocks, plants, flora and fauna as you find them. • Take great care to minimise the risk of fire. If camping, use a small stove or enclosed barbecue and ensure they are always tended responsibly.
Golfing-Practise your swing
Off the water, an incredible range of activities are available including climbing and abseiling, gorge walking, laser combat games, giant swing and much more. See www.killaryadventure.com or call 095-43411 or 095-42276 for more details.
Far from ‘spoiling a good walk’ as the old joke goes, there is no finer place in Ireland to enjoy a round of golf than at the unique and renowned Connemara Championship Links Golf Club in Ballyconneely with its spectacular backdrop of the Twelve Bens and the Atlantic Ocean. Test your driving and putting skills over 9 or 18 holes and make sure to enjoy
the state of the art new clubhouse bar and restaurant as well. For more information, rates and Green fees see www.connemaragolflinks.com or call 095-23502. A fun day out for all the family is guaranteed at the scenic and peaceful Glendalough 18 Hole Pitch and Putt Course, situated 1km west of Recess village. Clubs and balls are supplied and a relaxed and fun environment makes for an ideal group or family outing. For more details contact 095-34669 or email glendalough08@gmail.com. The Oughterard Golf Club is situated just off the main N59 in tranquil parkland with Lough Corrib to the east and the mountains of Connemara to the north and northwest. The charming and challenging course is renowned for its warm welcomes and hospitality. For more information go to www.oughterardgolfclub.com or call 091-552-131. Renvyle House Hotel boasts its own stunning 9 Hole Par 3 Course surrounding Rusheenduff Lake and on the Atlantic coast next to the Hotel, a golfer’s paradise. For information call Renvyle House Hotel at 095-43511 or go to www. renvyle.com.
Water & Adventure Activities The Clifden Boat Club, located at the end of the Beach Road in Clifden offers sailing courses for kids throughout the summer months. The club yachts and Laser picos are always looking for crew too. Go to www.clifdenboatclub.com for more details. Stop in to the Club House Bar & Restaurant to enjoy the view over Clifden Bay and soak up the summer atmosphere.
Pony Trekking - Get in the saddle!
Offering angling trips daily from Clifden Bay, is skipper John Ryan’s Celtic Queen, Ireland’s largest and best equipped charter angling boat. Beginners are welcome and all fishing gear is available on board. Full, half day and evening trips are offered with John who has over 30 years experience and if there’s no fish, there’s no fee! Phone John today on 086-248-4674. The Brazen Hussy is a new state of the art, exceptionally stable catamaran offering charters from Letterfrack and Cleggan. Island tours, wildlife and bird watching, angling and diving are all offered by experienced skipper Shane Bisgood. Licensed to carry 12 passengers, families and groups are welcome. Full and half day rates are available. For more information contact Shane at skipper@brazenhussy.ie or call 086-279-5118. The Connemara Ocean & Country Museum in Derryinver, Letterfrack features over 200 exhibits as well as a seaside nature trail. Take a sea tour on one of Europe’s most scenic and sheltered harbours in Ireland’s only glass bottomed boat. For more information call 095-43473, 086-199-1988. Fresh water anglers will need to stop in to Stanley’s on Market St in Clifden where lake fishing permits and information on fishing in the Clifden area is available. Top quality fishing tackle, gear and clothing is also on sale and John and staff will always be happy to help and advise, whatever your angling needs. Marine gear, buoyancy aids, clothing and equipment are also available from Cleggan Marine, located at the pier in Cleggan village. See www.clegganmarine.com or call 09544037, 087-775-9405. Killary Adventure Centre is a haven for all types of water sports from kayaking, surfing, wake boarding and water skiing to wind surfing, ringo rides and speed boat rides. There is an activity here whether on water or land to suit all ages and levels with experienced and trained instructors on hand at all times.
Whether you fancy a gentle introduction to the Connemara Pony on a relaxing trek or a canter across the sand on a beautiful beach, you will be spoiled for choice in Connemara when it comes to equestrian activities. Errislannan Manor is a great place to enjoy a trek on a Connemara pony. One or two hour treks are available as well as lessons. Children and nervous riders are welcomed and there is a pony and a trek to suit everybody. Call 095-21134 or see www.errislannanmanor.com.
Beach treks are a specialty at Cleggan Beach Riding Centre with long and short beach treks offered daily on Sellerna and Omey beaches. There is a large selection of horses and ponies available for adults and children of all levels, with lessons also available. Half day pony camps can also be arranged. Call 095-44746 or e-mail: jcaz@eircom.net. At Diamonds Equestrian Centre & Connemara Pony Farm in Tully, you can trek the Renvyle Peninsula on horseback taking in beach, bog and mountain treks. All levels of ability are catered for and top class Connemara ponies are also for sale. Call today! 095-43486, 086-819-5334 or see www.theconnemarapony.com. In Ballyconneely, discover Connemara’s beautiful beaches and coastline on horseback at The Point Pony Trekking & Horse Riding Centre. All levels of riding and beginners are welcome! The Point is situated right beside the Connemara Golf Links in Ballyconneely and is A.I.R.E. approved. Contact 095-23685 or 087-246-8294 or see www.thepointponytrekkingcentre.com. Knockillaree Riding Centre in Oughterard has a custombuilt yard with 14 large stables and large all weather sand arena offering lessons for all ages and standards. Groups, including children’s parties are catered for as well as Pony Camps. Enjoy pony trekking along mountain trails with breathtaking views of Connemara. There are also stallions at stud and the centre is AIRE approved. Contact Roger on 087-960-4517, info@connemarahorseriding.com.
While the Connemara roads and byways may resemble a network of narrow boreens and blind turns in places, the remote nature of the countryside means that one of the best ways to get the most out of a tour of the region is indeed by car. Some recommended routes are suggested below, but of course, many of the most interesting spots will be found by stopping and exploring further. Try to hug the left hand side of the road on narrow unmarked country roads, be conscious to pull in off the road sufficiently when stopping for photos, fill up on fuel and allow plenty of time for your intended journey.
Chase the Corrib
The vast Lough Corrib is surrounded by a network of roads, many of which offer superb views of the lake. A particularly attractive spot is the Hill of Doon, which can be reached by turning right at Oughterard coming from Galway and driving down the Glann Road for about 9 miles. Return to Oughterard and head west for Maam Cross where the mountainous landscape will begin to unfold before your eyes. Turn right at Maam Cross (R336) and right again at Maam Bridge (R345) which will take you along the shores of Lough Corrib. Follow signs for Cornamona and Clonbur (R438), enjoying the vistas of the lake, mountains and greenery that make it such a spectacular drive. You can choose whether to return to Galway city via Headford or return to your original starting place in Connemara-a good route is back to Maam passing the spectacular Loch na Fuaiche (Lough Nafooey) near the village of Finny.
winning Connemara Smokehouse, right at the end of the road on Bunowen Pier. Turning back to Ballyconneely, follow the road for Clifden making sure to stop along the way and enjoy the beautiful beaches and coastline of Ballyconneely.
Claddaghduff and Cleggan Take the N59 north from Clifden and turn left when you see the signpost to Claddaghduff. Follow the road along Streamstown Bay. You will pass an old graveyard on your left hand side and further on the Seaside Nursery and Garden Centre as you approach Claddaghduff, where Omey Island and strand will become visible. On leaving Claddaghduff, driving past the village will take you around the Aughrus headland. Following the road in a loop will bring you towards Rossadillisk on your left, followed by Sallerna approaching the fishing
The Sky Road A visit to Clifden is not complete without seeing the Sky Road. Whether you choose to walk, cycle or drive, follow the signposts from Clifden Town centre. First stop might be a very short climb to the monument dedicated to the founder of Clifden John D’Arcy from
village of Cleggan. Turning left past Cleggan will take you past Cleggan Beach and onto the Ballynakill road, which will end in the Moyard area. From here, you can keep left towards Letterfrack and Leenane or right towards Clifden.
The Coast Road
which you will have a wonderful view of Clifden town. Carrying on up the hill be sure to stop and admire the classic view of Clifden, nestled below the Twelve Bens and with the twin spires of the two churches framing the scene. Less than 1km from here is the gateway to the ruin of Clifden castle. Only walking to the castle is permitted and there is no parking at the entrance as the surrounding lands are private and agricultural. Continuing back the Sky Road, take the higher fork in the road to begin the ascent to the peak of the road. You will soon understand where the Sky road gets its name as you continue to climb! The lookout area offers one of the most stunning views in Ireland of the vast Atlantic Ocean with the islands of Inishturk and Turbot, Errislannan and the White Lady sea marker. Taking the first turn right after the lookout point brings you through Kingstown and Streamstown and back onto the Clifden to Westport road (total distance approx 11km).
Inagh Valley Drive On the N59 from Galway turn right after the village of Recess into the Inagh Valley (R344) and be prepared to have your breath taken away by the stunning drive that will unfold before you. The road will be narrow and bumpy in places, with a few sheep on the verges as well and is best taken in your own time, but you will want to stop for photos so make sure to pull in off the road as far as possible. The Maumturk Mountains loom on the right of the road while the lakes of Inagh and Derryclare stretch out beneath the Beanna Beola Mountain range. The Inagh Valley is superb in most weather and can be a stunning sunset drive. At the end of the Inagh Valley, you can turn left, which will take you towards Kylemore, or right towards Leenane and the Killary.
Clifden-Roundstone-Ballyconneely Loop Starting in Clifden, take the Ballyconneely Road (R341). About two miles out, take the left fork in the road before a small stone bridge which will take you on to the famous Bog Road. As the name suggests, the narrow hilly road will take you through a vast expanse of blanket bog, dotted with sheep and small lakes and bog holes set against the backdrop of the omnipresent Twelve Bens. At the end of the Bog Road, turn right for Roundstone village, ideal for a stop and exploration of one of Ireland’s prettiest harbour villages. Following the road through and past Roundstone village will take you towards Ballyconneely village. A left turn on reaching Ballyconneely will take you to Aillebrack, with views of Bunowen Castle. The Connemara Championship Golf Links Course is also situated here as well as the award
Starting from Salthill in Galway city, this popular route (R336) will take you through many of the townlands and villages of South Connemara, with the Atlantic on your left and the mountains of Connemara on your right. The attractive village of Barna is a popular residential area and centre and some fine sandy beaches dot the coast along the road to Furbo. Spiddal has wonderful scenery and is the heart of the Gaeltacht (Irish speaking region) with many students flocking there in summer time to learn the native tongue. The Connemara airport servicing the Aran Islands is located in Inverin while the ferry departs from nearby Rossaveal. The lively town of Carraroe (R343) also features stunning scenery and beaches and Costelloe is a hot spot for fishing. From Carraroe, you can explore Lettermullen and Lettermore, islands which are linked to the mainland by bridge (R374). Heading north, you can choose whether to head towards Maam Cross (R336) or take the longer, more remote and circuitous predominantly coastal route taking in Rosmuc, Kilkerrin, Carna and Cashel which will eventually take you in the direction of Roundstone. An interesting shortcut can be taken at the Bóthar na Scrathóg from Ros Muc towards Cashel also. The quiet roads and remote nature of much of South Connemara makes it a peaceful and atmospheric drive.
The Connemara Loop The stunning vistas of North Connemara with its dramatic mountains and scenery can be experienced by ‘looping the loop’. This route will take you from Maam Cross on the N59 through Recess, up the aforementioned Inagh Valley, along the lakes of Kylemore heading towards the Quaker village of Letterfrack, around the beautiful Renvyle Peninsula taking in Derryinver, Tully and Tullycross, the breathtaking views of Lettergesh heading towards the Killary and Leenane, and finally traversing the stunning Maam Valley and Joyce Country. The sea, lake and mountain scenery on this route is truly spectacular and the whole way is dotted with charming and unique establishments and diversions to keep you entertained by every turn in the road. Approximately 80km in total, the Connemara Loop is manageable to drive as a day trip, but be warned- you might just want to stop for longer than you expected!
Diamond Hill ‘Climbing the Diamond’ is an expression heard regularly in Connemara from both visitors and locals. Bracing, beautiful and well worth the energy required, the two loop trails begin and end at the Visitor Centre in the Connemara National Park. Lower Diamond Hill (approx 3km) offers great views of the surrounding countryside, but for the full reward, keep going right to the top of the Upper Diamond Trail (3.7km) to enjoy the panoramic view, particularly of the coastline and islands.
Pearse’s Cottage The former Connemara residence of the leader of the 1916 Rising overlooks the breathtaking scenery of Connemara’s mountains and lakes near the village of Rosmuc. The interior was burned during the War of Independence (1919-1921) but has been reconstructed to contain an historical exhibition. Pearse is said to have drawn much inspiration for his writings from his conversations and encounters with the locals in the area and you can just imagine what it must have been like back then during a visit to this historic residence. Pearse’s Cottage is open to the public daily during July and August. Free guided tours are available. Admission: Adult €3, Senior/Group €2, Student/Child €1 and Family €8. Open 9.30-6pm (last admission 5.15pm). Heritage week 2010 celebrations will be free of charge, for details of events please contact 091-574-292 or Pearsescottage@opw.ie.
Killary Fjord Ireland’s only fjord is a nine mile long inlet surrounded by some of the most dramatic scenery in Connemara. The bulk of Mweelrea, the highest mountain in the province of Connacht looms large over ‘The Killary’ as it is commonly called, making the waters calm and sheltered and ideal for cruising and seeing the land from the sea. Abandoned villages from the time of the Great Famine can be seen on the northern shore of the fjord, and all aspects of the cultural heritage and history of the area can be explored in the cosy and welcoming village of Leenane.
Omey Island The tidal island of Omey can be seen on arrival into the village of Claddaghduff, with its vast strand noticeable for the amount of cars that can often be seen driving on it. While driving on to the island is no problem, the tide can close in extremely quickly so it is best to check tide times in Claddaghduff village before driving over, parking and exploring further. There are many ways to pass the time in the wild and unspoilt island, from searching rock pools for crabs along the shore to examining the ancient church and monastic ruins of St Fechin, dating from the 6th century.
Kylemore Abbey No visit to Connemara would be complete without a visit to the iconic Kylemore Abbey. Built in 1867 as a romantic gift, the Abbey has a history so colourful and remarkable that the only way to obtain a sense of it is to go and see it for yourself. Originally a castle, Kylemore is the oldest of the Irish Benedictine abbeys and visitors can experience the splendour of the castle and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding majestic landscape from the large
windows. Kylemore is also the location of the stunning Victorian Walled Garden, an absolute must see, which was built at the same time as the castle employing huge engineering feats and it was certainly ahead of its time. The Gothic Church is another gem of Kylemore and is situated past the Abbey along a tranquil lakeshore walk. Kylemore Abbey also offers Tea Rooms and a craft shop and the sum of all the parts makes it a true Connemara ‘must see’. For more information see www.kylemoreabbey.com .
Aasleagh Falls The beautiful and atmospheric Aasleagh Falls are located on the Erriff River and fishery outside Leenane village on the road signposted to Louisburgh on the Galway/Mayo border. They will make for a wonderful photo stop while exploring the Killary area.
Inishbofin The beautiful island of Inishbofin lies seven miles off the Connemara coast and is reached by taking a ferry from Cleggan pier (journey time approx 30 minutes). The abundance of wildlife, scenery, geographical features, glorious deserted beaches and much more make Inishbofin a true must see spot when holidaying in Connemara. It is a very popular destination for walkers who can explore the island in a variety of different ways and the hospitality and entertainment on the island will also ensure that however long your stay, you will probably wish it was for longer!
Aughnanure Castle Built around 1500, the impressive Aughnanure Castle was built by the masters of the whole territory of West Connaught, the ‘ferocious’ O’Flaherty’s and was also home to 16th century pirate queen Grace O’ Malley (Grainne Uaile). Aughnanure is situated on the west shore of Lough Corrib, 3km from Oughterard on a rocky peninsula and is described as ‘the finest fortified dwelling upon any part of the shore of Lough Corrib’. Defensive features include gun loops and ports, the remains of a draw bridge, five outer wall towers, and the ominous ‘murder hole’ from which missiles would be dropped on intruders who had entered the castle! Stop in and take a step back in time to Connemara’s daunting and fascinating historical past at Aughnanure. Open from 9.30-6.30pm daily (last admission 5.15pm). Free guided tours available. Admission: Adult €3, Senior/Group €2, Child/Student €1 and Family €8. For details on events including 2010 Heritage Week events please contact 091-552-214 or Aughnanurecastle@opw.ie.
July 11th: 5th Annual Roundstone Connemara Pony, Dog, Sheep & Domestic Arts Show. 086-346-9372. 16th: St. MacDara’s Day Pilgrimage. Carna & Roundstone. 17th to 18th: The Roundstone Regatta. 087-673-8198. www.roundstoneregatta.com. 18th: Ballyconneely Pony Show, Ballyconneely. 19th: Childrens Sean Nos Summer Dance Camp, Ellis Hall, Letterfrack 6pm & Elm Tree Centre, Clifden 7.30pm, 6 weeks €50. Emma O’Sullivan 086-252-0672. 22nd: Connemara in the Summer & The Spanish Paradores in the Winter: Open House Night in Aillebrack, Ballyconneely. 8-10pm.095-23511 www.lornarobertsholidays.com. 24th: Festival of the Sea, Cleggan. www.festivalofthesea.net. 24th: Brendan Grace, Station House Theatre, €25, 9pm. 25th to 30th: Ceol na Mara School for Strings. Oonagh Keogh 086-266-8428. www.ceolnamara.ie. 29th to 2nd: August. Ireland’s Oldest and Largest Galway Hooker Festival. Féile an Dóilín takes place on the shores of Galway Bay, in An Cheathrú Rua. www.doilin.com. 31st: Errismore Races, Ballyconneely. 31st: RNLI Raft Race. Clifden Beach from 1pm. www. clifdenlifeboat.org. Robert King 087-697-7505 or Alan Pryce 087-752-1897.
August 1st: Omey Races. Omey Strand, Claddaghduff. 095-44673. 1st: The Cashel Show, Cashel Bay. 2nd: 4th Annual All Ireland Open Dog Show. Farrell’s Field. Roundstone. Call Paddy ‘Yank’ on 086-346-9372 or 095-35833. 5th: Connemara in the Summer & The Spanish Paradores in the Winter: Open House Night in Aillebrack, Ballyconneely. 8-10pm.095-23511 www.lornarobertsholidays.com. 5th: The Roundstone Tour De Bog. 086-821-5153 or destacpoole@eircom.net. 6th to 8th: Clifden Regatta, www.clifdenboatclub.com. 6th: The Fureys & Davey Arthur, Station House Theatre. €25, 9pm. 7th: Annual Charity Car Wash - Clifden Fire Station. 8th: Pig Fest 2010.Lots of Family events. Sean Nee 087664-2853. In aid of the Ballyconneely Playground and Sports Field. 8th: Claddaghduff Pony Show. 087-676-8584. erriswhiterock@hotmail.com. 12th to 15th: The Roundstone Summerfest Weekend. www. roundstone-summerfest.com 14th: Connemara 100 Marathon. 091-565-154. info@connemarathon.com. www.connemara100.com 15th: Watersports Day, Glassilaun Beach, Renvyle. 095-41024. 15th: Crystal Swing, Station House Threatre, €25, 9pm.
16th to 22nd: Connemara Pony Breeders Society presents the Festival of the Connemara Pony & The Clifden Connemara Pony Show, 095-21863. 095-21851. enquiries@ cpbs.ie. www.cpbs.ie. Events include: 16th: Seminar and CPBS herd viewing at Connemara National Park. 17th: International Breeder’s AGM, Seminar and reception at Abbeyglen Castle Hotel. 18th: Loose Jumping Championships at Clifden Showgrounds. 19th:The Clifden Pony Show 2010, Dog Show, Domestic Arts & Irish dancing. Pony performance show. Working hunter, dressage, puissance and Parade of Champions. 16th to 20th: West Coast United Summer Soccer Camps. Joachim Lydon. 086-409-8814. www.fai.ie. 16th to 20th: Rugby Summer Camp with Peter Bracken, Connemara RFC. Closing date for registration Friday August 13th, places limited. 086-056-6806. www.thescrumdoctor.com. 21st to 22nd: Connemara Pony Sales, Clifden Mart. 21st: Gaelforce West. 095-42006. info@gaelforcewest.ie. 21st: Medieval Madness at Aughnanure Castle, Oughterard, 12-5.30pm. Medieval Tournament bringing history to life. Free. 091-552-214. 21st to 29th: Launch Of The ‘Discovery Box’-Learn about wool & crafts. Sheep & Wool Centre, Leenane. 10-6pm. Free. 095-42323. leenane@eircom.net. 21st to 29th: History of Kylemore, Talks & Tour. Adults €12, Seniors €9, Students €8, Family Day Pass €32 (Children under 12 free entry). 095-41463. 21st to 29th: Window On The Past-Local History Exhibition. 095-21148. breandanoscanaill@eircom.net. 22nd: Fun Feltmaking Workshop for Children, Sheep & Wool Centre, Leenane. 12-4pm. 095-42323. leenane@ eircom.net. 22nd: Bug Day, Brigit’s Garden, Roscahill. 2-5pm. Fun day for children of all ages! Adult €7.50, Child €5, Concession €6 and Family €22. 091-550-905. 23rd, 24th & 27th: History & Management Of Connemara Ponies, Connemara National Park, Letterfrack, 2-4pm. Free. 095-41323. 23rd: Sheep Hill Walk, Sheep and Wool Centre, Leenane, 12- 2pm. Booking essential. Free. 095-42323. 24th & 26th: Fun with Nature for Kids, Connemara National Park, Letterfrack. Free. 095-41323. 25th: Natural Plant Dyeing Workshop, Sheep & Wool Centre Leenane. Spaces Limited, 12yrs plus. €5. 095-42323. 27th: Frame Weaving Workshop, Sheep & Wool Centre Leenane. 11- 1pm and 2.30pm-4.30pm. Booking is essential, 7yrs+. €5. 095-42323. 28th: Maam Heritage Day. Maam Community Centre 11am. 28th to 29th : 48th Oughterard (Agricultural) Show. 086-151-7289.www.oughterardshow.com. 28th: The Connemara Rough Diamond Event. ‘Adventure Racing with a Twist’ www.connemararoughdiamond.com. 29th: Open Workshop, Connemara West Centre, Letter-
frack. 10am to 5pm. Special workshop for children. Free. 095-41036. sven@conservationletterfrack.ie. 29th: Knit-Along Sunday, Sheep & Wool Centre Leenane. 10-6pm. Beginners welcome. Free. 095-42323. 29th: Dawn Bat Swarm at 5am, Aughnanure Castle. Everyone welcome. Free. www.batconservationireland.org. 29th: Roundstone Community Games. 095-35044. destacpoole@eircom.net. www.roundstone.ie.
Weekly Events Mondays All-Ireland Champion Marie Walsh presents ‘Trad in the West’. Featuring a host of Ireland’s finest musicians and performers including All Ireland Talent Show Star Emma O’Sullivan. Station House Theatre. 9pm. €10.
Tuesdays
J.M. Synge’s stage play The Aran Islands, staged by Connemara dramatists Sean Coyne and Tegolin Knowland. Station House Theatre. Tickets: €10. 9.30pm. Irish Music sessions at the Teach Ceoil. Tully, Renvyle. 9pm.13th July to 31st August. Irish Nights, Dolphin Hotel, Inishbofin. Every Tuesday in July & August. 9.30pm
Tuesdays & Thursdays
Irish Nights at Clifden Town Hall. 9pm. Childrens Activities at Connemara National Park, 11am. 095-41054.
Wednesdays
Kids Magic Variety Show by Ed Masters. Every Wednesday Afternoon for July and August. Tickets: €10. 5pm. Irish Nights at Roundstone Community Hall. 8.30pm10pm. 7th July to 25th August. 095-35865. July 7th to August 18th: Derek Warfield & the Young Wolfe Tones. The Vickers Bar, Alcock & Brown Hotel. 095-21880. Bond Movie Nights. Watch a James Bond movie at the Station House Theatre Cinema. July & August. €5, 9pm.
Thursdays
Adrian Knight, Comedy Hypnotist. July and August at the Station House Theatre. €20. 9pm.
Sundays
Sizzling Summer BBQ’s in The Station House Courtyard, Noon-5pm. Complimentary Face Painting for kids.
Daily
Kids Drama Workshops at the Station House Theatre. Monday-Friday 2pm and Kids Movies daily at 3pm (except Wednesdays). Connemara National Park. Visitor Centre open daily 9am to 5:30pm. 095-41054. See how a bodhran is made at Roundstone Musical Instruments, daily talks and displays take place at the craft Centre in Roundstone village. www.bodhran.com.
Use your feet!
With hills, green fields, quiet country lanes and views of sea, mountains, lakes and sky in every direction, Connemara is a paradise for walking. Whatever your ability, whether you want to breathe the fresh air from the summit of a mountain or just take a leisurely stroll, there is truly something to suit everybody, from a half hour saunter to an all day hike. The first step if going for a significant walk is to plan well in advance. Take the fitness of the participants into consideration-remember this should be fun and revitalising, not exhausting or competitive! Make sure the time allowed is suitable and allow for breaks along the way. Always tell someone where and when you are going and when you expect to be back. Connemara weather is undoubtedly irregular; a sunny morning can quickly become a damp afternoon, so bring rain gear and suitable clothing and footwear if going off road. Good walking boots and socks (plus a spare pair) are important, as is a hat either for shade or shelter depending on weather conditions. Dry weather does not mean dry land, especially where Connemara bogs and wetlands are concerned! A good map is also very important-ask at your accommodation or check out the display at the nearest Tourist Office or Book Shop. The Clifden Book Shop on Main St. in Clifden (095-22020) carries an excellent comprehensive selection of maps and guides for all types of walks, from Omey Island and Inishbofin to the Connemara Tourism ‘Walking in Connemara’ guide. It contains routes and ideas for less demanding walks that do not require climbing, averaging less than four hours. Essentials also include sunscreen, water and snacks and if walking in remote lands, a whistle is a very useful safety consideration. A First Aid Kit is also strongly advised and remember – a Band Aid will not fix all problems. Prepare for all events that could possibly occur taking into consideration the distance and ground you plan to cover. Midges (tiny biting insects) can be a serious irritant so packing a bug spray might also be a good idea. Outdoor clothing, rain gear, hiking boots, camping equipment, maps, guides and everything you might need for walking or any outdoor activity can also be found at The Outdoor Shop on Market St, Clifden. Connemara’s terrain is so varied and attractive that absorbing the views alone is the ultimate Connemara experience. Most maps and guides will have markers indicating the archaeological spots that can be found all over Connemara and the feeling that humans were on the same spot that you stand on centuries ago is one of the most evocative aspects of exploring the landscape. An hour spent planning a walk can lead to one of the most memorable holiday experiences possible, so choose an area, check out a map or guide, pack your backpack and put one foot in front of the other. Connemara is predominantly agricultural land-even vast hills and deserted looking vistas can be home to Connemara hill sheep. Goats will also be seen fairly regularly as well as the Connemara pony. For the most part, they will avoid you rather than you having to avoid them, but keep your distance and respect farmer’s land, fences, gates and signs. If in doubt about whether you can walk somewhere, try another route or stick to designated trails as indicated in guides and maps.
Below are just some of the best Connemara walks: The Western Way extends from Oughterard to Maam, Lough Inagh
and Kylemore to Leenane along the edge of Lough Corrib. This is not a walk for beginners; the total distance is 31 miles and the highest peak is Maumeen at approx 850 feet. The scenery of the Maum Turks and Twelve Bens make it an outstanding walk but prepare and plan well in advance. The Slí Chonamara is a long distance walk through the south Connemara Gaeltacht going through Spiddal, Carraroe, Ros Muc and Carna. It is possible to stay in Irish speaking households along the route to truly become immersed in the native language and culture. The Mount Gable Walk takes you along 10km of old road or ‘seanbhóthar’ that links the villages of Clonbur (An Fhairche) and Corr na Móna. There are stunning views of Binn Sléibhe (Mount Gable) and Lough Corrib and it is a generally simple walk with steep climbs at beginning and end, but will be manageable by those of average fitness. Connemara National Park in Letterfrack is a great place for walking for all levels and all the family comprising of great walks through bog, hills, forest, woodland and grassland. On Wednesdays and Fridays in July and August there are guided nature walks for all the family and the famous Diamond is split into lower and higher looped walks. 095-41054. Inishbofin is truly a walker’s wonder, with the West Quarter Looped Walk a must. More details are available from the Community Centre near the harbour on 095-45895 or at www. inishbofin.com. Omey Strand and Island is a superb walk - make sure to check tide times. Killary Harbour offers a great walk around the edges of Ireland’s only fjord with an old famine road on the south side a highlight. A very successful walking festival has taken place in Leenane in recent years. For more information contact Leenane Development at 095-42017. The West Ireland Walking Centre based in Letterfrack offers a wide range of walks of all levels, from low land treks to more challenging mountain hikes, guided by enthusiastic and knowledgeable locals. All levels of ability and interest can be accommodated. For more information go to www.connemarawalking.com or call 095-41222, 087-222-8538.
On your bike! Exploring Connemara on two wheels has long been a popular way to enjoy and explore the area, from dedicated cyclists keen to take on the challenging rolling hills and inclines to casual pedal pushers looking to hire a bike on a sunny day. Designated looped cycle routes were launched recently by Fáilte Ireland and these are: The Sky Road Loop (16km), the Errislannan Loop (14km), the Cleggan Loop (33km), and the Ballyconneely and Roundstone Loop (40km). These looped cycle routes take in some of the best scenery the area has to offer and are signposted along the way. Information boards are to be found in the villages and towns along the routes also. A map can be downloaded from the website www.discoverireland.ie by clicking on ‘Cycling’ and ‘Clifden Cycle Hub’. For further details stop into the Clifden Tourist Office, Galway Road, Clifden. Mannion’s Bike Hire on Bridge St, Clifden offers rentals per day or per week and caters for individuals and groups. It is open Monday to Saturday from 10am-6pm and 10am-12pm on Sundays. Not for the faint hearted, the Derroura Mountain Bike Trail on the N59 between Oughterard and Maam Cross, offers a bit more than the average cycling challenge and winds its way through truly spectacular surroundings. It is 16km long, about 13km of which is on single track and parts of the trail are technical, steep and rocky so this is certainly one for more experienced mountain bikers. Safety considerations are important and must be adhered to. Cycling the highways and byways of Connemara is a great way to fill your lungs with fresh air and get out there in the country side. Remember, Connemara roads are narrow and surfaces will not always be exactly smooth, so exercise caution and concentrate on what you are doing and where you are going. Helmets and protective clothing are advisable as well as suitable weather gear; Connemara’s weather is nothing if not unpredictable. Also be aware of other road users and motorists and ensure that you have everything you need before setting off on your cycle.
Superb Shops Clifden
“Variety is the spice of life”. At An Siopa Deas we don’t sell spice but we have lots of variety. Call in and view our extensive range of Souvenirs, Gifts, Greeting Cards, Toys, Sweets & some of Clifden’s Best Ice Cream… Market Street, 095-21050 or visit www.siopadeas.com. Belle Blu. Market Street. 095-21321. sales@belleblu.com. New Stock of Yummie Tummie tanks to keep you looking slim this summer! Pandora Inspired Bracelets and Beads are now back in stock. Opening Hours Tuesday – Saturday 11 – 6 (closed for lunch 2-3) Join us on Facebook at “Belle Blu” for coupons and offers and remember you can always shop online at www.belleblu.com. The Bens Music Shop. Bridge Street. All you music needs...Cds, Books, Instruments etc.. Personalise a Bodhran/Gift and its FREE (10mins) or Family Crest ready next day or ship it…Great Gift. Enjoy a FREE music lesson too! Also at The Bens: Professional Picture Framing. Connemara Art Prints. 095-22680. 086-103-1154. johnchristopheroreilly@ eircom.net. Brats of All Ages. Market Street. Games Workshop Agents, Childrens Clothing – Ben 10, Hannah Montana, Dora the Explorer, Spiderman plus much more… Beach Wear, Inflatables from €5, Toys and Accessories, Sun Hats, Poncho and wellingtons! 095-22952. (Photo right) The Celtic Shop and Tara Jewellers. Main Street. A popular choice for visitors and locals alike, who enjoy excellent quality and up to date designs. See our large selection of jewellery, watches, trophies, gifts and clothing. We also provide engraving and watch repairs. 095-21064. info@celticshop.ie or visit www.celticshop.ie. The Clifden Bookshop stocks a full range of Ordnance Survey Maps, Walking in Connemara booklets, West of Ireland Walks, Coastal Walks, Connemara Superwalker Maps. We also offer a selection of guides, memoirs, short stories and local histories for the area. Currently offering an extensive range of titles, art materials, cards & stationery. Find that hidden gem that will make your visit to us so memorable. Tel 095-22020 located on Main Street. theclifdenbookshop@eircom.net Open Mon/Sat 9.30-7. Sun 11-7. (Photo right) The Connemara Pony Company. Market Street. Exclusive Connemara Pony Ireland clothing, horsewear and accessories. Everything for the pony and rider. Great range of outdoor clothing. Lovely baby and childrens clothing. Feed, wormers, tack, supplements, rugs, riding wear. Embroidery service - personalize your gifts. 095-30779. 085-771-6322. Design Platform.”Fashion without Limits” in the Clifden Station House Courtyard, has been bringing individual and unique fashion to Clifden for over 10 years with exceptional Irish and International labels. Design Platform is renowned for its professional and individual care and attention to all our customers. We look forward to welcoming you all over the coming months! Fantastic reductions in our Summer Sale continue in store. Gifts by Grace. Courthouse Square. 095-22101. Great Value in Irish Giftware:- Newgrange glassware and giftware on special promotion. Hand turned “Coill” wood range at fantastic prices. Extensive range of Guinness Merchandise. Connemara marble giftware and jewellery collection. Come see our beautiful Irish made Corona Jewellery. Hehirs Woollen Store & Design Studio. Market Street. A treasure trove of ladies and gents fashion and footwear, knitwear and outdoor clothing. Our eclectic and affordable stock changes every two weeks with a fabulous sale rail instore. Call in for a look...You never know what you might find! Open 7 days a week until 8pm. 095-21282.
Homeware Plus. The Square. 095-21348. Everything at discount prices!! Homewares, Gardening Supplies, Games, Toys and now in stock all you need for a fun day at the beach. Gach rud ar phraghas iontach, taobh le SuperValu. Keane’s. Main Street. For a Great selection of souvenirs, giftware, toys, cards, household, candles, hardware & paint. Big choice of personalised gifts. Mention the Connemara View and receive 10% off all purchases over €20. Keane’s your one stop shop. King’s Paper Shop. Main Street and a new store in the Station House Courtyard. Newspapers, Magazines, Lotto, Greeting Cards, Postcards, Stamps, Toys, Sweets, Ice Cream, Gifts … and more! Contact 095-21119. (Photo left) La Femme Bleue. The Square. 086-129-5548. Jtmchantal@ hotmail.com. Fill up your summer wardrobe with our fabulous and Unique Felt and Silk coats, jackets, flower, poppet, broche. Special occasions Shawls, scarves, Bags, jewellery, accessories, original gifts for everyone. Lowry’s Sweater Shop. A family run business on Clifden’s Market Street, Lowry’s offers an extensive range of the finest Irish merchandise. Traditional Irish knitwear, designer sweaters, hand-crocheted lace garments, cashmere capes, wax jackets, hats, caps and accessories. 095-21139. Mannion’s Bike Rentals. Bridge Street. 095-21160. The one stop bike rental shop. Single, couples, families, friends and groups (small or large) they cater for all ! 24hr rental is €15 or €90 for a week. Open 10-6 daily and 10-12 Sunday (depending on John B’s Saturday Night !!) Moran’s Pharmacy. Main Street. This Family run pharmacy established in 1911, provides a full and efficient pharmacy service, with knowledgeable staff available to advice on health matters. Moran’s Pharmacy is small enough to be personal, experienced enough to be professional and large enough to be competitive. 095-21273. www.moranspharmacy.com. Ní Ráighne Opticians. Bridge Street. Offers an extensive range of Designer sunglasses, optical products and services. Stockists of high quality fashion eyewear. Prices to suit everyone! Special offers in store. 095-30995. niraighneopticians@eircom.net. (Photo right) Ohh! By Gum. Nestled in the Water Tower of the Station House Courtyard is a real treasure trove. Hand knitted baby clothes, wool / organic childrenswear to ethically made clothing for women with a fashion conscience. We offer many locally made creations and collections from afar. Check out our sweetie corner and give yourself a treat! 095-21334. (Photo left) The Outdoor Shop. Market Street. For all your surfing and hiking needs… With brands such as The North Face, Craghoppers, Musto, Billabong and Ripcurl to name a few and the one & only Conn O’Mara!! A wide range of wetsuits, surfboards and all the maps you need for Connemara are available here. Weather forecasts and surf reports are displayed outside daily. Just ask for Leo! Contact 095-22838 or see www.connomara.com. (Photo right) Schley Electric. Bridge Street. All Household, Electrical and Gas Appliances. TV, Video, Satellite, Hi-Fi, DVD, CD. Contact 095-21360. Stanley’s. Market Street. FitFlop, Geox, Ecco, Keen, Timberland, Riker, Brasher, Dubarry, Saint James, Armourlux, Lyle & Scott, Tivoli, Carraig Donn, Aran Knitwear from €29, Rugby Jersery’s €29.95, Paramo, Berghaus, Aigle, Helly Hansen, Columbia, Barbour, Puddlehunters, Magee, Robbie, Mustang, Wrangle, Baleys. Fishing Tackle including Grays/Hardy – all in one shop plus so much more. Whistlestop “Gifts & Interiors”. Station House Courtyard. 095-21532. 086-230-4210. whistlestop@eircom.net www. whistlestop.ie. Design-led home accessories at affordable prices. Lamps, mirrors, throws, glassware sourced world-wide. Baby gifts including award winning Organics for Kids babygros and an eclectic range of jewellery & silverware. Wedding list & personal shopping source available. (See photo left).
Letterfrack Visit Avoca in Letterfrack, ‘From Chillin’ to Snoozin’, For Rainy days to Hazy days’ there is something for everyone… Choose from Ladies & Mens designs, outdoor gear or something delicious from the Avoca Pantry range – perfect for that beach packed lunch or a peak top picnic on Diamond Hill. Contact 095-41058 or see www.avoca.ie.
Moyard Cottage Handcrafts. 095-41029. Wrap yourself up in traditional yet contemporary knitwear and jewelry collections, inspired by the local landscape, with a variety of subtle styles, textures and colours that reflect the ever-changing seasons. (Photo right)
Kylemore
Oughterard
Kylemore Abbey Craft Shop. Where you will find a huge variety of Irish and International giftware, exciting new ranges of clothing and gifts from the best of Irish designers now in store. Contact: 095-41437. shop@kylemoreabbeytourism.ie or see www. kylemoreabbeytourism.ie. (Photo left)
Teach & Baile Furniture. 087-280-3563. “Quality everyday furniture at great prices” Enjoy your summer in Connemara sitting on one of our outdoor garden benches starting at €60. See our Summer Sizzlers. Memory Foam mattresses 3’€135, 4’6” €180.
Roundstone
Roundstone Music & Craft Shop. Michael Killeen Park. www.bodhran.com. See “Malachy Bodhran” craft his world famous Bodhrans (Irish Drum) with regular talks given. Bodhrans can be purchased with the option of a handpainted Celtic design or Family Crest. Large range Irish Music CDs, Music Books and Irish Crafts. Coffee Shop. 7 days.
Food, Flowers, Wine & Country Markets Ballyconneely
The Connemara Smokehouse. Bunowen Pier. Pride Passion Perfection are words that sum up the Connemara Smokehouse. Come and experience it for yourself on one of our Smokehouse Tours. Tours available every Wednesday 3pm, June, July and August. Booking is advisable. Private Groups by appointment only. Contact 095-23739. info@smokehouse. ie. Shop Online: www.smokehouse.ie. Keogh’s Supermarket. Visit our Supermarket and Off Licence – famous for its extensive range of Fine Wines. Friendly staff are always keen to help. 095-23522.
Clifden
An Bhean Feasa Health Store. Market Street. Organic wholefoods, nutritional supplements, herbs, natural remedies, organic face and body care. Clinics in kinesiology, acupuncture, Bowen Therapy and massage. Professional, confidential and expert service in both shop and therapy centre. 095-30671. Clifden Fruit & Veg. Main Street. 086-836-5864. Full selection of fruit and vegetable at great prices. Now selling an extensive range of animal feeds. Connemara Florist. Main Street. Fresh flowers for all occasions: birthdays, anniversaries, births, funerals and weddings. Great gift ideas - whatever your budget! Delivery throughout Connemara. All budgets catered for! Monday -Saturday 10am-5.30pm. Contact 095-21565 or see www.connemaraflorist.net. Connemara Hamper. Lower Market Street. Large selection of Irish and European farmhouse cheeses. Organic wines, fruit and vegetables. Freshly baked breads and baguettes. Gourmet lunches and Illy coffee to go. Open all year. Mon-Sat 10-5pm. 095-21054. Des Moran Family Butchers. Main Street. 095-21232. Home of the national award winning sausages, white pudding and black pudding. Catering to all of your meat and poultry needs. Duanes Fish Shop. Main Street. 095-21804. Large variety of locally caught fresh fish and shell fish. Fresh crab. Live lobster. Fresh oysters. Connemara Smokehouse Smoked Products. Having a BBQ try our Tuna Steaks, Prawn Skewers, Crab Claws, Scallops and Salmon Steaks. Tues-Sat 10-6. Mon 12-6. Special offers daily! (Photo right) Ferguson Fine Wines. Main Street. Exciting & varied selection of wines from all over the world, chosen to suit every occasion and budget! See in store for special offers. 095-22644. fergusonfinewines@hotmail.com. Jagur Organic. Get your Organic Fruit and Vegetables from your local Organic Grower. Our produce is available in the Country-
shop Letterfrack, Connemara Hamper and Duanes Fishmonger in Clifden. Look for our stall at the Clifden Market on Fridays. 095-44855. SuperValu. The Square. 095-21182. Opening hours: Monday-Thursday/Saturday 8am-9pm. Friday 8am-10pm. Sunday & Bank Holidays 9am-7pm.
Letterfrack
Letterfrack Country Shop. 095-41850. Newsagency, Grocery, Deli, Off Licence, National Lottery, ATM. Household, Stationery and much much more. Stockists of Fresh Organic locally grown vegetables. Also stock Gluten Free and Wheat Free Goods. Open 8am– 10pm every day.
Oughterard
Oughterard Village Market. Every Tuesday 10am - 6pm Homemade & Artisan Baking, Preserves, Fudge, Fresh Fish, Oysters, Shrubs, Vegetables, Free Range Chicken & Duck Eggs, Irish Farmhouse Cheeses, Olives, Handmade Soap, Chickens, Dutch Pancakes and much more. Free Car Parking Available. 086-864-2204 or obavillagemarket@gmail.com.
Roundstone
Roundstone Country Market. All local artisans and craftspeople. Ten stall holders selling cheese, breads, eggs, veg, pastries, crafts and jewellery. Every Sunday in July and August. Hours 10am-3pm. Held at the Community Centre carpark in the centre of Roundstone. For more info contact John Walsh on 095-41243.
Arts & Antiques Connemara ArtLink is an online gallery showing work by local artists and crafts people. To visit the website go to www.connemaraartlink.com. Details of exhibitions and events available on the Connemara ArtLink Facebook page. Email: connemaraartlink@gmail.com.
Clifden
Alan Gaillard Stoneware Pottery. Tableware, giftware and one-off ceramics + a selection of felt art work and hand-made cards all made at the Stone House studio and showroom, 2km from Clifden on the main N59 Westport Road. Call 095-22786 or see www.alangaillard.com. (Photo right). Proprietor Noreen Allen welcomes you all to her fabulous Clifden Antique Shop & Irish Art Gallery in the Station House Courtyard. Specialising in 18th & 19th Century Furniture etc.. Antiques are the oldest ‘Green’ in the business, you can enjoy beautiful pieces of Georgian furniture whilst knowing you have made a good investment. With Paintings from names such as Cecil Maguire, Kenneth Webb, Maurice Wilkes. 095-22230. Prendergast Antiques. Lower Market Street. For that unique gift or special piece for your home why not peruse our extensive collection of antique furniture, silver, ceramics, collectibles, antique and reproduction glassware, prints, mirrors. Best prices, 32 county delivery, world-wide shipping, trade welcome. www.clifden.biz. Phone 087-629-6195 anytime.
Roundstone
Roundstone Ceramics. Michael Killeen Park. Open daily 10am-5pm. We make a wide range of functional stoneware and unique hand decorated porcelain. We also make porcelain jewellery, all sold exclusively from our workshop. We welcome individual orders for commemorative pieces, house signs & original commissions. 095-35874. roundstonepottery@eircom.net. (Photo right). Yvonne Kings Gallery & Studio. Visit Yvonnes Studio, exhibiting Connemara Landscape Paintings & Prints. Her Jewellery Designs include freshwater pearls, gemstones & silver crafted into necklaces, earrings & bracelets. Quality at a great price! Open most days. 087-207-7845 or email kingsgallery@hotmail.com. (Photo left)
Restaurants
Cashel Cashel House Hotel. At the head of Cashel Bay set in 50 acres of Award-winning Heritage Gardens. Voted the Country House Hotel of Year 2008 by The Good Hotel Guide. Serving Afternoon Tea from 3-5pm, Bar open for Lunch 12.30-3pm and Sunday Lunch 12.30 – 2.30pm (Also available for Special Dinners). 095-31001. www.cashel-house-hotel.com Clifden Abbeyglen Castle Hotel. Sky Road. Open for dinner 7 nights a week. Summer Restaurant Special: Four Course Dinner €35pp (Early booking advisable) and Tuesday is Irish Night. 095-21201. www.abbeyglen.ie. Ardagh Hotel & Restaurant. Ballyconneely Road. Magnificent sea views and spectacular sunsets, The Ardagh specialises in locally caught seafood, prime meats and homegrown vegetables. A variety of Menus are available from Seafood and a La Carte Menu with a mid-week summer special 4 Course Dinner €35 pp, reservation recommended. 095-21384. www.ardaghhotel.com. Brown’s Restaurant. Alcock & Brown Hotel, The Square. Dine in a cosy and friendly atmosphere in the newly decorated Browns Restaurant. 2 Course Dinner €19.95, 3 Course Dinner €22.95, Childrens Menu €5.95. Summer Special: 3 Course Dinner for two plus Bottle of Wine €59.95. Open 6-10pm. 095-21880 Derryclare Restaurant. The Square. Long-established family restaurant with indoor and outdoor dining. Traditional and contemporary cuisines. Specialising in fresh local seafood, prime meats, pizza and fresh pasta dishes. Enjoy a 3 course meal for two including a bottle of wine for only €58. Takeaway Menu available. 095-21440. E.J. Kings Bar & Restaurant. The Square, 095-21330. Enjoy a Two Course Meal for €19.95 or Three Courses for €22.95, including a Complimentary Drink from 5.30pm to 7.30pm! Lively Music Session Every Evening. Marconi Restaurant at Foyle’s Hotel. The Square. 095-21801. Open 6 days. 6-9pm. Early Bird Specials from 6-6.45pm. €25.95 for 3 Courses from our Main Menu. Reservations are recommended. www.foyleshotel.com Off the Square Restaurant. Main St. 095-22281. Charming family run restaurant. Fresh seafood is the house specialty. Pick your own Lobster from their Sea Tank. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, all the family are well catered for in this spacious and welcoming restaurant. Wine served by the bottle or glass. A variety of beers. Desserts not to be missed! Kylemore Kylemore Pass Hotel Restaurant. Appetizing home-cooked meals using only the best local produce. The Sailors’ Bar which is a popular haunt for locals and visitors alike, serves an excellent variety of bar meals and bottled beers from all around the world. 095-41141. www. kylemore-pass-hotel-connemara.com. Leenane Portfinn Lodge & Fjord Restaurant. Family run since 1977. Overlooking the majestic Killary Harbour. Specialises in locally sourced fish, lobster, lamb, beef, mussels and their Portfinn‘Famous’ Bisque. Early Bird menu is offered from 6-7pm with 3 Courses for €20 and a Taste of India every Thursday €25 pp. 095-42265 or see www.portfinn.com. Recess Ballynahinch Castle Hotel. Recess. Using only the finest ingredients, Ballynahinch takes full advantage of the wealth of fresh fish and game available on the West Coast, to produce wonderfully balanced yet creative dishes. 095-31006 e-mail: bhinch@iol.ie or see www. ballynahinch-castle.com. Renvyle Renvyle House Hotel Restaurant. Award winning restaurant offering a wide range of Irish and Continental cuisine. Irish beef, Connemara lamb and game dishes feature with seafood dishes using fresh fish caught daily. An extensive wine list. 095-43511. www.renvyle.com. Roundstone Beola Restaurant. Adjoining Eldons Hotel, serving fresh food daily from 12.30pm to 9pm. Dine al fresco or inside by a Connemara turf fire! Private parties catered for. 095-35933. eldonshotel@gmail.com. www.eldons.ie. O’ Dowds Bar & Seafood Restaurant. Open daily from 10.30am. Award winning traditional pub. Early Bird Special 2 Courses + Tea/Coffee €19.50 (available until 7pm). Evening Restaurant Menu served from 5pm-9.30pm, Bar food served Noon-9.30pm. Fresh Seafood daily. 095-35809 or see www.odowdsrestaurant.com
Cafés
Clifden Steam Café. Station House Courtyard. Pick yourself up with freshly ground Java Republic Gourmet Coffees or enjoy a glass of wine with sandwiches, salads or wraps made with garden fresh ingredients. A variety of freshly home-made cakes, desserts, scones and treats are made daily. Catering Menu and full desserts available, order in advance. 095-30600.
Vickers Coffee House at the Alcock & Brown Hotel. The Square. Breakfast and Lunch menus, Childrens lunches from just €3. Wide range of great tasting coffees from Essence, selection of Wines, Beers and Liqueur Coffees also available. Delicious home-made cakes, scones and desserts made daily. Open 9am to 6pm, 7 days a week. 095-21880. Walsh’s Bakery & Coffee Shop. Market St. Have some of the most wonderful coffees, tasty treats, light lunches, snacks & sandwiches…for you to enjoy in relaxing surroundings in the newly renovated coffee shop Before you leave, why not pick up some of the wonderful Artisan Breads & delicious pastries for you or your friends back home. Open 8.30am – 9pm Mon – Fri, Sat & Sun till 6pm. Kylemore Kylemore Abbey Café. Newly renovated with an exciting food hall now open. Freshly baked breads & cakes from the Kylemore kitchen and excellent artisan products from local producers are all available to include in your picnic basket or to take away and enjoy at home. 095-41146. info@kylemoreabbeytourism.ie or see www.kylemoreabbeytourism.ie.
Pubs & Craic
Ballyconneely Keoghs of Ballyconneely. Food served daily in the Bar 10am - 9.30pm with entertainment provided at the weekend. Function room is available for private parties and all your Family occasions. 095-23522. (see gig listings in The Connemara View Newspaper). Cashel Zetland Hotel. Bar Food served daily from 12.30-9pm. Live music every Saturday at 10pm. The Zetland holds one of the largest private collections of Irish whiskey. For further information please contact 095-31111 or email info@zetland.com or visit www.zetland.com. Cleggan Oliver’s Seafood Bar & Restaurant. Open daily serving fresh, local fish and shell fish, delicious home-made soups and seafood chowder, Connemara Lamb and Prime Steaks until 9pm. Live Music: Wednesday & Saturday at 8.30pm. 095-44640. Clifden Griffin’s Bar. Main Street. 095-21370. All day breakfast served from 10am. Food served Mon-Thu 12-4pm, Friday 12-5pm, Saturday 10-4pm & Sunday 11-4pm. Experience Sporting Events on Big Screen & in Glorious HD both inside or out in the Heated Beer Garden with smoking area. Live music seven nights a week. Guy’s Bar. Main Street. Food served daily 10.30am to 9pm. Traditional music daily from 7-9pm, Live music Friday nights with Michael Carey, DJ every Saturday night from 10pm and Music with Aidan Ward every Sunday Night. Snug available for private parties. 09521130. info@guysbarclifden.com. Mannions Bar. Market Street. 095-21780. This traditional family run Irish Pub is a very popular lunchtime meeting spot serving a large food menu daily until 9pm. Pool table, Juke Box and Traditional Irish music Nights through out the Summer. Craic and Ceoil!! Mullarkey’s Bar. The Square. 095-21801. Basket House on Thursday Nights - Live Music every Friday and Saturday night. Check out our billboard on The Square for gig listings or visit Mullarkeys Bar Facebook Page. The Station House Bar. Station House Courtyard. Food served daily noon -9pm. Relax with a Pre-theatre drink ! Live Music: Thursday Nights - Irish Music, Friday Nights with Gerry Curran and Saturday Nights with Barry Ryan. 095-21699. Tom King’s Bar & Snug. The Square. 095-21900. Discover one of the Clifdens oldest family-run pubs. Famed for its “fantastic” pint of the black stuff, which you can enjoy nestled in the only traditional ‘Snug’ in Clifden or outside while watching the world go by on The Square. Don’t forget to say ‘Hi’ to Tom & Dickie! Vaughan’s Pub & Restaurant. Lower Market St. Offers traditional favourites combined with innovative new dishes in a warm and friendly atomsphere. Lunch menu from €7 and Dinner mains from €13. Try their famous & unique Guinness pudding with flamed Irish whiskey custard! Specials daily & 3 course early bird menu available. Live music in The Bar at weekends (see gig listing in the Connemara View Newspaper). 095-21150. Vickers Bar at the Alcock & Brown Hotel. The Square. Bar menu served 12 noon to 9pm. Six TVs for viewing sporting events. Wide range of live Music throughout the Summer including Derek Warfield & The Young Wolfe Tones every Wednesday in July & August (see gig listings in The Connemara View Newspaper). 095-21880. Renvyle Summer at Ros Bar. Tully. There’ll be a great line-up of music, including bands like Edison, The People Carriers & Legends Paul & Sean will be playing every Thursday night!! Disco on Friday Nights. Serving bar food daily from 12-9pm. Roundstone The Shamrock Bar. Situated in the centre of Roundstone, The Shamrock Bar is the perfect place, whether a local or visitor, to have a pint & a bit of ‘craic’ in a relaxed friendly atmosphere. Bar food served 12.30-9pm offering a wide range of Seafood & Meat Dishes. It is also an excellent venue for parties where all are catered for!
Clifden Acupuncture Clinic, Ciúin Health & Beauty. Bridge St.Very effective natural form of medicine, used to treat a wide range of conditions. Gentle treatment for all types of pain, relieves stress, boosts immune function, restores balance. Contact Maara Mulgrew Lic.Ac. (China) on 087-970-1648 or see www.acupunctureclinic.ie. Anna’s Nail Bar & Tanning Salon. Bridge St. 095-30001. Hand File & Polish ONLY €13. Also available Manicure, Pedicure, Paraffin Wax Treatment, Gel and Acrylic Nails. Get Bikini Ready! Vibroplate – One hour workout in 10 minutes just €5. Wow Brown Full Body Spray Tan €30. Now Available: Good-bye Nicks, Chips and Smudges… Hello Shellac! UV Colour Coat that lasts at least 2 weeks ! Only €30. Open Tuesday to Saturday 10-5pm. Late evenings by appointment. Chokurei Aromatherapy & Acupressure Therapeutic Massage. Women’s Health Clinic, Main St. Beneficial in the treatment of muscular pain, digestive disorders, insomnia, PMS, migraine, anxiety and depression, stress related conditions. Introductory Offer 1 ½ hour massage for only €40. Call Ethel on 085-173-7071. www.chokurei.vpweb.ie. Clifden Station House Leisure Centre. Indoor heated pool with separate children’s paddling pool, Swedish steam room, sauna and jacuzzi to melt away aches and pains. Fully equipped gymnasium caters for the novice right through to the most experienced gym users. 095-30433. leisure@clifdenstationhouse.com. Clifden Holistic Centre. Kinesiology, food testing, acupuncture, Bowen Therapy, massage and hypnotherapy at An Bhean Fheasa Health Shop. Lr Market St. 095-30671. Open Mon-Sat 10-5 p.m. Ciúin Health and Beauty. Bridge St. Experience treatments carried out in a relaxing environment by experienced and professional therapists. Treatments include Dermalogica skin care, Ciate and Opi nail care, Glo-Mineral make up, plus much more. Open Mon, Tues, Wed 9.30am-6.30pm, Thurs, Fri 9am-8pm, Saturday 9am-4.30pm. Early and late appointments available by request. 095-30205. www.ciuinhealthandbeauty.ie. Hair Gallery. Bridge St. 095-21901. Monday to Saturday 10-6. Late night Thursday and Friday by Appointment only. Now available the ‘KeraStraight’ – This celebrity favoured treatment gives the effect of a “permanent blow-dry” and tames softens and smoothes even the frizziest locks! Call in for a free style consultation.
Abbeyglen Castle Hotel. Sky Road, Clifden. Family run hotel with beautiful views overlooking Clifden Bay. You are guaranteed an unforgettable experience! 095-21201. info@ abbeyglen.ie or see www.abbeyglen.ie. Alcock & Brown Hotel. The Square, Clifden. All bedrooms ensuite and free WIFI is available. Clifden playground is a 10 minute walk away, if you need to wear the kids out! Special rates daily. 095-21880 www.alcockandbrownhotel.com. The Ardagh Hotel & Restaurant. Ballyconneely Rd, Clifden. Intimate Hotel with magnificent sea views located just outside Clifden. 095-21384.www.ardaghhotel.com. Cashel House Hotel. Luxury and tranquillity is offered in this family run hotel voted Country House Hotel of Year 2008 by The Good Hotel Guide. 095-31001. www.cashelhouse-hotel.com. Ballynahinch Castle Hotel. Recess. The jewel in the crown of Connemara. Contact 095-31006 e-mail: bhinch@iol.ie or see www.ballynahinch-castle.com. Voted by Fodors’ as one of the top 20 Hotels of the world. Buttermilk Lodge Guesthouse. Westport Road, Clifden. Warm, friendly, comfortable accommodation with wifi and great breakfasts included all at affordable prices, just 5 mins walk to Clifden centre. 095-21951 www.buttermilklodge.com quote “Connemara View” and receive 10% discount. Eldons Hotel. Situated in the heart of Roundstone village overlooking the harbour. Food
Hedz Salon. Station House Courtyard. Established 2nd March 1999 and growing still on the strength of its’ referrals. Don’t gamble on your Hair. Ring Hedz on 095-22202 and you’ll pick a winner every time. The stylists are Damian, Andrea, Margaret & Junior Stylist Ashline. See www.hedz.ie. COMING SOON ‘Clifden Hedz Academy’. Kings Ladies & Gents Hairdressing “Talking Heads”. The Square. Now available: 10 Minute Hair Colouring. Really! Just 10 minutes and same price as traditional colouring. 095-21085. Neuromuscular Therapist ANMPT. Sports, Deep Tissue & Relaxation Massage, Dry Needling, Physical Therapy, Change Sensations In Your Body. Contact Damien Stoney on 087-125-2578. Reflexions Beauty Salon. Market St. 095-22796. Award Winning Salon 2009 for excellence in Matis Skincare. Special offers on products. Also coming soon the new two week manicure & pedicure, SHELLAC. ‘On like a polish… wears like a gel’. Renew Spa. Clifden Station House. The place to go if you want to escape. Indulge yourself in soothing surroundings with a rejuvenating facial, pampering body treatment, heavenly massage or a quick nail polish. Renew has time for you! 095-21881. info@renewbeauty. com/facebook.www.renewbeauty.com. Reiki / Seichem. Experience the calm & healing energies of this beautiful treatment, which is drug free & non-invasive. These powerful energies can heal one on the mental, emotional, spiritual & physical levels. Qualified Reiki / Seichem Master & Practitioner. Call Yvonne for appointment. 086-365-3266. The Treatment Rooms at Abbeyglen Castle. Sky Road. Offering hot stone massage, indian head massage, reflexology, Zen spa pedicure/manicure, waxing and California tanning. Summer Specials: 15% off all treatments every Wednesday, Shellac ‘The two week manicure’ – Special Offer €30 and Yonka Facial plus free starter pack €65. Open 9-6 Monday to Saturday. Sunday 12 – 5. Non residents welcome. 095-21306.
Leenane
Connemara Seaweed Baths. Set at the waters edge overlooking Killary harbour in the picturesque village of Leenane, here you will find a tranquil setting with candlelight and soft music to take your stress away. Relax in the only saltwater seaweed baths in Connemara. Open Daily 11-8pm. Contact 095-42408.
served from 12.30pm to 9pm daily. 095-35933.www.eldons.ie. Kylemore Pass Hotel and Restaurant. The ideal base for touring, walking, fishing, cycling, painting, or just a quiet, relaxing break. 095-41141. www.kylemore-pass-hotel-connemara. com. Letterfrack Lodge Hostel. Built to guest house specification, this hostel has 16 bedrooms, 3 kitchens , 3 dining rooms, a barbecue balcony, 2 living rooms, laundry room and the Internet. Don’t forget to checkout Mikes Top 10 & ½ things to do in Connemara! 095- 41222. www.letterfracklodge.com. Racecourse Lodge. Hospital Rd, Clifden. A modern, family run, B&B, situated within 5 minutes walking distance from town centre. Come and enjoy a home away from home. 095-21738. racecourselodge@gmail.com. Renvyle House Hotel. An historic hotel on the shores of the Atlantic. Great Summer family packages with 200 acres of leisure facilities and additional free activities for summer: Family (2 adults, 2 kids) 3B&B2D from €699. 095-43511 or see www.renvyle.com. Station House Hotel. Clifden. This unique hotel combines quintessential Irish hospitality with all the facilities of a new International standard hotel. Self-catering apartments available. Leisure Centre. 095-21699. www.clifdenstationhouse.com. Zetland Hotel. Cashel. This country house hotel is an oasis of elegance and warm hospitality. Enjoy gracious living as it used to be in times gone by. 095-31111. www.zetland.com.
St MacDara’s Island A half mile long green strip, containing a restored 6th century one room chapel to the east, MacDara’s island off the coast of south Connemara is an archaeological and spiritual ‘must see’. One of Ireland’s most respected saints, MacDara is the patron saint of fisherman and extraordinary scenes of pilgrimage can be seen on his annual feast day every year on July 16th, when hundreds of locals and visitors alike visit the uninhabited island to celebrate Mass and pay homage to him. Fishing does not take place on the 16th and sails are lowered when passing the island as a mark of respect. Mass is celebrated outside the tiny chapel which was restored in 1975 and is considered one of Ireland’s finest early Christian oratories. The Saint’s ‘Bed’ is located at the east of the Church and there are also the remains of several pilgrimage ‘stations’. Traditional currachs, Galway hookers and fishing trawlers transport pilgrims to the island from An Más pier in Carna and Roundstone harbour. Ask locally in either village in the preceding days about how to get there and what the arrangements are as bad weather conditions can occasionally complicate matters. Apart from the annual feast day, the island can only be accessed by local boats that are familiar with the waters and coastline-again, details can be obtained by asking locally.
Bronze Age Forest at the National Park In the 2000 hectare state owned Connemara National Park, a spectacular forest dating from the Bronze Age can be enjoyed and explored at length. Many remains of human activity can be seen, from 4000 year old megalithic court tombs to more recent 19th century archaeological wonders including a graveyard, disused lime kiln and drainage and wall systems. The Visitor Centre also contains much information on Connemara’s history and archaeological past. The Connemara National Park situated next to Letterfrack village is open daily. For more information call 095-41323, 095-41054 or see www.connemaranationalpark.ie
Cromwell’s Fort, Inishbofin On arrival to the island of Inishbofin, the most strikingly historical sight is the substantial ruins of a mid 17th century fortification known as Cromwell’s Fort. With walls six feet thick, bastions and a semi circular tower the impressive structure housed prisoners during Cromwellian times and particularly persecuted Catholic clergy and priests. Many were put to death on the orders of Oliver Cromwell, but this was changed due to parliamentary pressure and they were instead sent to penal colonies on the Aran Islands and Inishbofin. Some lived out their lives in a difficult existence while other awaited transportation to the West Indies and other Caribbean plantations. A tense and bewildering ominous situation, it would have been severely difficult for the persecuted clergy, their guards and the local people of the island and it is surprising that the ruins have remained as intact as their current state, given the levels
of resentment and anger towards Cromwell in Ireland. Nonetheless, the fort on Inishbofin remains one of Connemara’s oldest and most intriguing archaeological structures.
Station House Museum Housed in the old ‘Engine Shed’ of the Station House complex, the Station House Museum provides visitors with a comprehensive history of the Connemara pony through artefacts, photographs, documents and memorabilia. Computer research and video facilities are also available and the upper floor houses an exhibition and tribute to the pioneering first transatlantic flight of Alcock & Brown of 1919, when they landed in Derrygimbla bog, just outside Clifden. The Station House Museum is located in the courtyard of the Station House and is open 7 days a week in the summer season from 11am-5pm.
D’Arcy Monument Less than a kilometre from Clifden on the famous Sky Road lies a hill top monument to the town’s founder John D’Arcy. A spectacular view of the town nestled under the Twelve bens and skirted by the Atlantic Ocean is visible from the top, and the climb is brief and achievable by almost anyone. A small signposted trail, just past the Abbeyglen Castle Hotel will take you to a perfect spot from which to capture a perfect unimpeded view of Clifden.
Clifden Castle This castle was built by the founder of Clifden, John D’Arcy in approximately 1812 and would have been the centre of social life in the area at the time as well as being the D’Arcy family home. A number of standing stones can also be seen around the grounds, some authentic and others less so! After John D’Arcy’s death in 1838, his son Hyacinth inherited the estate, but ruined by the famine, he was forced to sell. Built of solid stone, it would have looked different in the days of D’Arcy and what remains of its current Gothic style facade was added by a later owner, Thomas Eyre. The castle was abandoned in the early years of the 20th century but still attracts a lot of interest from visitors for its stunning location on the Sky Road and the glimpse it affords into Clifden’s historic past. Clifden Castle is situated approximately one mile from Clifden town centre and is accessible only on foot from the main road. Parking around the entrance arch to the castle grounds is not permitted and the surrounding lands are agricultural and privately owned so visitors are required to respect their surroundings and heed signage.
Marconi and Alcock & Brown Sites Two truly historic sites relating to the history of Connemara are located in very close proximity to each other, about 3 miles outside of Clifden heading towards Ballyconneely. A memorial marker indicates the bog site where John Alcock and Arthur Whitten Brown crash landed after completing the first non-stop transatlantic flight in 1919. A monument in the shape of a plane wing overlooks the site on the Errislannan road further on. Also nearby is the site of the radio station from which Guglielmo Marconi transmitted the first transatlantic radio messages in 1907. The entrance road to the sites is located on the Ballyconneely road and the sites are only accessible on foot.
Connemara Garden Trail One doesn’t often think of gardens when thinking of Connemara, but the area’s mild climate is ideal for gardening and there are a good many gardens worth visiting. The Connemara Garden Trail has been on the go for ten years and encourages people to visit what the area has to offer. Among these are the following. Anglers Return, Toombeola, Roundstone, 095-31091. This 19th century natural garden has many hidden corners with plants of interest, some beautiful old trees and in a magical setting between hill and river. Ballynahinch Castle Hotel, Ballinafad, 095-31006. One of the oldest gardens in Connemara, it is noted for its magical setting and the wonderful old trees which abound throughout the estate. Look out for the line of Monkey Puzzle trees on the avenue. Brigit’s Garden, Roscahill. The beautiful Celtic gardens and nature walks offer a magical experience for all ages. Family-friendly, with kids’ trail, stone chamber and play areas. Café and gift shop. Gardens and Café open daily 10-5.30. Located between Moycullen and Oughterard. Contact 091-550905 www.brigitsgarden.ie. Cashel House Hotel, Cashel, 095-31001. Early 19th century garden which has been very well maintained with many new areas of planting being undertaken. Marvellous trees and shrubs. There are some outstanding plants and the kitchen garden is worth a visit. Make sure you visit the secret garden. Errisbeg House, Roundstone, 095-35834. Late 19th century natural garden in a great location. Great gardening ideas and very good use made of the natural features. A mix of exotic and native plants with a smattering of art pieces give this garden a different feel. Errislannan Manor, Clifden, 095-21134. Very good mix of the formal and informal. A lot of the old planting is very mature now, but a great collection of trees and shrubs planted over the past few years have matured very well. The walled garden a must see. Gleann Aoibheann, Beach Road, Clifden, 095-21148. Early 19th century wildlife garden, slowly being restored. A collection of old and new trees in a natural setting. Kylemore Abbey Victorian Walled Garden, Kylemore. 095-41146. This amazing late 19th century garden, was the last and most expensive walled garden built in Ireland. Recently restored to its original Victorian style, it contains some superb trees and plants. A good vegetable garden and excellent herbaceous borders. There are also woodland walks. Rosleague Manor Hotel, Letterfrack. 095-41101. A good example of a 19th century woodland garden with interesting plantings in a beautiful setting. Ross Castle, Roscahill, Moycullen. 091-550-183. This is one of the oldest gardens in Connemara, and the only one with a parkland setting. Large trees are set throughout and the recently restored kitchen garden has fine box hedging and an unusual collection of plants. Zetland House Hotel, Cashel, 095-31111. Early 20th century garden with a good collection of trees and shrubs. Good use made of the site with great views over the sea.
Although the gardens are open to the public, it is a good idea to contact each individually before visiting as some need appointments and others have particular hours. Most of them have no official entrance fee but accept a contribution to various charities. Enjoy your visit to these special gardens set in this wonderful landscape.
Spotting Feathered Friends Connemara has an abundance of bird types and species that can be seen and identified quite easily in many locations and has become a popular destination for birdwatchers throughout the year. While regular ‘twitchers’ will be well versed in the more common species to be seen in the area, spotting and identifying Irish bird species can be a fun and fascinating pastime for all the family. A pocket book to Irish and British species will almost always enable you to identify the birds you spot, while there are also iPhone applications that will play the calls of various categories and species and provide photos and illustrations. The sea shore and coastline of Connemara is one place where you will certainly see some interesting and fascinating birdlife and activity. A variety of gull types (common, ring billed etc), shags, cormorants, gannets, oystercatchers, fulmars, shearwaters and wild ducks and geese can be seen on the water or in flight at many beaches or off the Connemara coast. Many pairs and families of wild swans can be seen all around Connemara, with Cleggan and Claddaghduff home to many permanent breeding pairs. Over a dozen pairs could be counted in the small lakes behind Cleggan Beach on the Ballynakill road in the past winter and some pairs and their young can easily be seen from the road. One might also see the swans along the sea shore in Cleggan and also sometimes at Rossadillisk beach. It is also not unusual to see the elegant gliding of a heron disturbed from its poise in wetland habitats near to coastal areas. Other birds regularly visible to those who are watching out for them include robins and wrens, all sorts of finches, (green, gold, chaffinch, bullfinch), bluetits, blackbirds, thrushes, swallows, starlings and many more. Rare sightings in recent years include a Little Blue Heron at Letterfrack in October 2008 which drew many birdwatching visitors keen to spot a rarity in this part of the world-it was the first sighted in Ireland. A Thayer’s Gull was also spotted at Ross Beach in Moyard in February this year while the elusive Corncrake can still sometimes be heard in the wilds of Connemara. More information on sightings in the Connemara area can be seen online at www.birdwatchgalway.org.
A Mine of Information Visit Ireland’s ONLY show Mine. Glengowla Mines, Oughterard. This Historic Silver and Lead Mine abandoned in 1865, is a unique reminder of the 19th Century methods of ore extraction and processing. Rock formations in Glengowla are the roots of mountains, which once reached great heights. See our Spring Well, Pan for gold or visit our Rock & Mineral shop and bring home a unique souvenir of your visit to Connemara. Guided Mine tours every 20 minutes. A Great Family Day Out!! Open 9.30am to 6.30pm. 091-552-360, 087-2529-850 or see our video on glengowla.goegi.com.
Business Notes
Hairdressing Academy for Connemara Hedz Hair Salon of the Station House Complex in Clifden is now a FETAC approved Hairdressing Academy. Hedz Academy proprietor and Creative Director Damian Manning received official accreditation as a provider of hairdressing training from Minister for Lifelong Learning Sean Haughey and FETAC at Clontarf Castle on June 10th and will now deliver FETAC Hairdressing Courses in Personal Care and Presentation FETAC Level 3, Hairdressing Theory and Practical FETAC Level 5 and Hairdressing Science FETAC Level 5, as well as Work Experience. These courses are due to start on September 1st lasting approximately three months. The Academy classroom will be where the Hedz salon is currently located and the two units formerly known as Passenger will be the salon and Academy floor. The four current members of staff at Hedz are also currently up-skilling by undertaking FETAC Level 6 qualifications in teaching and regularly train and update in the latest cutting techniques and methods. On completion of training at the Academy, learners will do theory and practical exams resulting in a FETAC award in January 2011 if successful. They will also be able to join salons as recruits, capable of doing one length hair cuts with or without fringes and have what it takes to progress in a career in hairdressing. Speaking after the FETAC approval, Damian said “Hairdressing is a profession that’s like a tree, with many branches that can take you were ever you want to go. This is great news for the Hairdressing industry in Connemara, for the learners who wish to get their foot on the ladder of a career in Hairdressing and for Connemara to have one more reason for people to come, study and stay here. Hairdressing can also be a great transitional career for those wanting a job to tide them over this recession and the people within the profession are often very creative and dynamic. Hairdressing was polled in a survey in London as being one of the most satisfying and rewarding careers and I agree with that”. Anyone interested in participating in any of the courses provided at the Hedz Hairdressing Academy may contact Damian at Hedz in Clifden on 095-22202. Photo: Damian Manning of Hedz receives his FETAC accreditation for the Hedz Academy from Minister for Lifelong Learning Seán Haughey.
New Fish Shop Denis and Pauline Keane have opened a new Fish Shop in Roundstone village. It is located in the premises which was once the old post office, next to the Matchmaker. A wide range of fresh fish is now available daily and the shop has been very well received to date in the village, by locals and visitors alike. Photo courtesy of www.roundstone.ie
Chef Paddy Conroy Lands at New Alcock While many changes have been made in recent times, a familiar face is once again to be seen in the kitchen of the Alcock & Brown Hotel as well known chef Paddy Conroy of Clifden has now returned to the hotel’s restaurant. Brown’s Restaurant is now located in the cosy room behind reception where the bar was previously located and the area lends itself extremely well to its new purpose, seating 35-40 at full capacity at any time. The room has also been remodelled
with a nautical theme, and art works by local artist Cathal O’ Malley adorn the walls, including a wall painting of Galway hookers. Restaurant manager Bridie Conroy presided over a very comfortable and enjoyable dining experience and exceptionally good value is to be had with two and three course options as well as a great children’s menu. To see for ourselves, the Connemara View dropped into Brown’s on June 30th where we sampled delicious dishes from all three courses. For starters, we enjoyed an excellent chicken Caesar salad, a delicious plate of pan seared scallops and a generous melt in the mouth portion of grilled goat’s cheese, which was complemented perfectly by tangy red onion marmalade and toasted hazelnuts. Proprietor Mick Byrne recommended an excellent red Spanish Tempranillo which was much enjoyed throughout the meal. Main courses were a cooked-to-perfection minute steak with a good kick of pepper, a tasty breast of chicken stuffed with baby spinach and cream and a baked fillet of salmon wrapped in prosciutto ham. All were excellent and much praised-portions are generous so will suit all appetites and Mick, Bridie and staff will happily advise on appropriate choices. Sea bass, hake and fish pie also feature on the menu as well as fillet steak and a fresh vegetarian option nightly. Dessert was a truly scrumptious meringue roulade oozing with fresh fruit and cream which disappeared rapidly! Afterwards we ventured next door for a couple of drinks and some great live music in the Vickers Bar. This is a traditional and popular Irish restaurant menu, featuring old favourites and classic dishes, cooked perfectly and offering superb value for money. Brown’s restaurant is open from 6pm-10pm daily, for booking call to reception at the hotel or call 095-21880. Photo: (l-r) Bridie Conroy, Chef Paddy Conroy and Mick Byrne.
New Home for Citizen’s Information
Cleggan Farm Holiday Cottages are once again being run by the White family as Josephine White and her husband Greg Yule have taken over the management of the longstanding Connemara business. Josephine, Greg and family have recently returned from living in France and look forward to welcoming guests, both old and new to the cottages, which cater for both long and short term lets. Cleggan Farm Holiday Cottages consists of six country style cottages, located on the north side of Cleggan bay. For more information call Jo or Greg on 095-44658 or go to www.clegganfarmcottages.com.
The Clifden Citizen’s Information Service has now moved to spacious and impressive new premises on the second floor of the new Cashel-Connemara Credit Union building on the Square in Clifden. Comprising of two private rooms, a kitchen area and an open office floor space, Declan Weir and colleagues can now offer information and advice to clients in a central location, which is also serviced by a lift to ensure accessibility to all. A wide range of leaflets are also available just by stopping in during opening hours and if further information is needed, the staff on hand will be more than happy to help. The CIC service in Connemara has been in place for over 12 years now and the key to its success has been the dedication and efforts of a panel of local volunteers who have given their time, knowledge and individual expertise for the good of the wider community. A huge amount of information and experience has been accumulated in that time providing an extremely valuable local resource provided for locals by locals. The strong link to FORUM and other Con-
Connemara View Newspaper
July 2010
Changes at Cleggan Farm Cottages
nemara community development groups and businesses has also strengthened the community aspect of Citizen’s Information every step along the way. The latest move to the new premises now combines one corner stone of the Connemara community, the Cashel Connemara Credit Union, with the Citizen’s Information service which is free, confidential and available to all. It is intended that the new space will also be available to other relevant community based services in the future, for example MABS (Money Advice and Budgeting Service). On settling into the new premises, Declan Weir said “We are delighted to now have this great new premises and are looking forward to making the most of this new space. Information on entitlements and explaining people’s rights to them is as important now as it has ever been, and anyone, regardless of age, background or information sought is encouraged to stop in and avail of the service. While Citizen’s Information is also available online, it can often be very helpful to talk directly to someone who will explain information to you in a way that you can easily understand, and that is what we are here for”. The Citizen’s Information Service is available at the new location of 2nd floor, Cashel-Connemara Credit Union, Seaview, Clifden on Thursdays from 7-8pm and Fridays from 10:30am to 3:30pm. Call 095-22000 & 087-130-1100 or email: clifden@citinfo.ie. Information is also available online at www.citizensinformation.ie and from the Citizens Information Phone Service, Lo-call 1890-777-121. Photo: Virginia Ridge, Declan Weir, Cathy Keane of FORUM and Tina O Scanaill in the new Clifden Citizen’s Information Service premises.
New Insulation Grant There have been recent changes to grants offered to homeowners under the Home Energy Saving Scheme regarding the BER (Building Energy rating) requirement. All homeowners applying for grant aid for insulation are now obliged to undertake an after-work BER assessment which will give the house an energy rating showing the standard of insulation in the house. The average cost for cavity wall and attic insulation in a bungalow house in Connemara is €1500 and €650 of the cost can be covered by the existing grant. A further grant of €100 is now available towards the BER assessment. The only SEAI registered insulation company in Connemara, John and Patrick Folan’s West Coast Insulation, based in Letterfrack is currently providing free BER assessments for all their customers and can be contacted with regard to all grant entitlements for home insulation. For more information contact West Coast Insulation today on 095-41500 or 087-142-1414 or get more information and energy saving tips on their website www.myinsulation.ie.
New Shop at Station House A new addition to the Station House complex will open its doors on the morning of Friday July 9th when the King family of King’s Paper Shop, Main St, open a new Newsagents and Gift Shop at the premises next to Hedz Hair Salon. The new shop will stock a full range of newspapers and magazines as well as drinks, sweets, ice creams, gifts, souvenirs, jewellery and more and Joan and staff are looking forward to welcoming all to their new store. King’s Newspaper & Gift Shop at the Station House will be open from 9am-8pm from Monday to Saturday and from 9am-6pm on Sundays.
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Bogman 62
Across
1 If it’s long past eight, prepare some food. (9) 6 This one is a mother and a man! (4) 11 When Luis gets drunk in the pub, he needs his medicine. (7) 12 Is it an ideal concoction for one who wasn’t well? (5) 13 A bit of lousy evidence coming between you and me exposes some basic divisions. (5) 14 If this isn’t fixed, it may cause a hold up in the clothing department. (7) 16 Any part of air from Gilbert and Sullivan openings. (3) 17 Make bacon producer clean up rubbish? (7) 19 The outcome of settling the Ulster question. (6) 20 Unravel garment? In fact, the exact opposite! (6) 26 One could easily confuse Crimea with a different country? (7) 28 A broken arm would spoil everything! (3) 29 Takes Stalin’s reforms and puts them in place? (7) 31Essential equipment for a barefaced liar? (5) 32 How the soldier from 26 Across got the chop? (5) 33 Is the singer back too for a smoke? (7) 35 Does crack British Army unit hastily begin to surround an Orangeman? (4) 36 Would it sound like furniture that could be of use to mathematicians? (3,6)
Down
Enter crossword answers into a draw of correct answers for a voucher for Homeware Plus in Clifden by July 28th.
Connemara Crossword 68
2 Confuse typical Spanish food with typical Italian food? (5) 3 End up with gooey stuff in the hair when you get the leg over? (3) 4 EU national head leads such altered Sultan’s ladies’ men? Well, sort of. (7) 5 Proceeds of sales by family in labels? (7) 7 Indeed you could actually set fire to it and still be very happy. (9) 8 Find nothing too revealing on Fashion Street? (6) 9 Corruption of Victoria & Albert reign leaves a certain sour taste. (7) 10 Iraq’s centre for displaced Arabs? (5) 15 Prepare the ground for putting money into it? (4) 18 Get tips when you pay for this in the vegetable section? (9) 21 With roots, soak, stir and they’ll be just great in Flora. (4) 22 Extra stout leads to compromise of sobriety right away! (7) 23 Shaking zinc on a fancy drink? (7) 24 Procedure to reduce overheads in the salon? (7) 25 The game is disrupted to show such pictures. (6) 27 It’s heart-breaking to find that the whole of mankind is on it. (5) 30 Having sinned, apply make up an hour after midnight? (5) 34 Be up before Brian starts to go out in Brighton, Blackpool, Bangor, Bray or Blackrock, but not in Birr. (3)
Across
1. Relating to flowers (6) 4. European country, capital Sofia (8) 9. Desire to dwell here (6) 10. Pavement (8) 12. Use a loom (5) 13. School punishment (9) 15. Unhappy (3) 16. Soothes, quietens (5) 17. Eskimo (6) 22. Paper chief (6) 24. Musical instrument (5) 27. Ruin (3) 28. Mouth organ (9) 31. Eight singers or musicians (5) 32. To catch fish using this method is a bit evil (4, 4) 33. Welcome season (6) 34. Pierce with pointed instrument (8) 35. Edible mollusc (6)
Send in your Crossword and Quiz answers!
Down
1. Goodbye (8) 2. Stumbling block (8) 3. Spoken to formally (9) 5. W.W.2 German submarine (1, 4) 6. Be on good terms with (3, 2) 7. He works for touring group (6) 8. Capital of Greece (6) 11. Junkie (6) 14. Big bird (3) 18. Run of the mill, routine (6) 19. Without preparation (9) 20. Buns (8) 21. European country (8) 23. Tavern (3) 25. Christian name of Duke of Edinburgh (6) 26. Afraid to enter cavern (6) 29. Path around celestial body (5) 30. Colder (5)
Winner of Bogman 61: Mari Dickenson, Dunloughan Winner Crossword 67: Jean Pryce, Kingstown
Drop to the Connemara View Drop Box at King’s Paper Shop, Main St, Clifden, post to Connemara View, Clifden, Co.Galway or e-mail to news@connemaraview.com.
My son has a disability and I look after him full time. Do I qualify for a Respite Care Grant? The Respite Care Grant is paid once a year to certain carers of people who need full-time care and attention. It is paid automatically in early June if you are getting one of the following payments: Carer’s Allowance, Carer’s Benefit, Constant Attendance Allowance, Prescribed Relative’s Allowance or Domiciliary Care Allowance. If you got the grant last year, you do not need to apply again. You should have received a questionnaire from the Department (and returned it) to verify that you still qualify. If you are not receiving one of these payments, you have to apply to the Department of Social Protection. To qualify you must be: · Ordinarily resident in the State · Caring for your son on a full-time basis · Caring for him for at least six months – including the first Thursday in June · Living with your son or, if not, be contactable quickly by a direct system of communication, for example, telephone or alarm. Your son must have a disability that requires full-time
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care and attention, which you are providing. He must not normally live in a hospital, convalescent home or similar institution but may attend a nonresidential training course or day care centre. The Respite Care Grant is €1,700 for each person being cared for. (You won’t qualify for the grant if you are working, studying or training outside the home for more than 15 hours a week; if you are getting an unemployment payment; or if you are signing on for unemployment credits.) If you do not get the payment automatically, use application form RCG1. This is available from welfare.ie, from your post office, Social Welfare Local Office or Citizens Information Centre, or ring lo-call 1890-202-325. Further information is available from Clifden Citizens Information Service which provides a free and confidential service to the public. Tel: 095-22000 and 087-130-1100. Email: clifden@citinfo.ie. Open: Thursday 7pm to 8pm, Friday 10:30am to 3:30pm. Please note our new address: 2nd Floor, Cashel/ Connemara Credit Union, Seaview, Clifden. Information is also available online at www.citizensinformation.ie and from the Citizens Information Phone Service, Lo-call 1890-777-121.
July 2010
What Do You Know? Quiz 21
Congratulations to Jacob Kochumman of Clifden who answered all of Quiz 20 corerectly and will receive €80. The prize money for Quiz 21 restarts at €10. July Quiz Geography: The New Hebrides Islands are currently known as? History: In which Jewish month is Passover held? Sport: How many counties in Ireland don’t have a Gaelic football team? Math: What is the oldest mathematical text(s)? Science: Who was the first scientist to describe the magnetic-needle compass used for navigation? Food: When was the first American cookbook published and what was its name(s)? General Knowledge: What is the most common mammal in the US? Music: When and where was Bob Dylan’s first professional performance? Art: It is estimated that Edward Degas made 15,000 paintings, pastels, prints and drawings of what? Entertainment: What is the most recorded song in history? Literature: The sole surviving written record of the Mayan Culture is written on what? Irish Interest: What were The Pogues originally called?
June Quiz answers
Geography: Which European country consists of 20 different regions? Italy. http://geography.about.com/library/ quiz/110809/blquiz110809.htm?lastQu estion=12&answers=1&submit=Next+ Question+%3E%3E&ccount=3 History: The trident is the emblem on which nation’s flag? Barbados. http://geography.about.com/library/ quiz/110809/blquiz110809.htm?lastQu estion=10&answers=0&submit=Next+ Question+%3E%3E&ccount=3 Sport: Which side coined the term ‘The Five Nations’? France. http://www.funtrivia.com/submitquiz.cfm?quiz=235986 Maths: Fibonacci published this famous book in the early 1200’s. Liber abaci. http://library.thinkquest.org/22584/emh1300.htm Science: What are the four great inventions of ancient China? Compass, Gunpowder, Paper Making and Printing. http://en.wikipedia.org/ wiki/History_of_science Food: Who discovered pineapple in the West Indies? Columbus. http://cookingwhiz.com/cookhistory.htm General Knowledge: What animal requires more food in proportion than that of a baby or a cat? A Bird. http:// www.knowledgebase-script.com/ demo/article-485.html Music: In 1954 what man first closed Elvis’s concerts with “Ladies and Gentleman, Elvis has left the building. Thank you and good night”. Al Dvorin. http:// didyouknow.org/fastfacts/music.htm Art: Why was the Louvre originally constructed? A fortress of Philippe Auguste in 1190. http://www.theartgallery.com.au/DidYouKnow.html Entertainment: Which country banned Donald Duck comics because Donald doesn’t wear any pants? Finland. http://www. stunning-stuff.com/list-funny-facts/2.html Literature: In what year did Agatha Christie die? 1976. http://www.quizzone.co.uk/quizrounds/010805artandl iterature/answers.html Irish Interest: What place in Ireland has the longest name? Muckanaghederdauhaulia, in County Galway. http:// www.ireland-fun-facts.com/irelandfacts.html
Connemara View Newspaper
july Horoscopes
Aries (Mar 21-Apr 20) It’s time to focus on what you want out of life and out of yourself. You need to make some big choices now. Taurus (Apr 21-May 20) Stop letting the hurts from the past affect the way you live your life now. Gemini (May 21-Jun 21) Get out there and see what the world has to offer. You will never know if you don’t try. Cancer ( Jun 22-Jul 22) Happy Birthday! It’s time to make good e. on the merger you have been contemplating. Sign on the dotted line. est Leo ( Jul 23-Aug 23) Happy Birthday! Leo, even if this is not your best birthday, know that you can do anything you want. Virgo (Aug 24-Sep 22) Do not let indecision hold you back this month. Make a choice and stick to it. Libra (Sep 23-Oct 23) If something seems too good to be true, trust your instincts and look into it first. Scorpio (Oct 24-Nov 22) Don’t worry about what other people think. Be your own judge. Sagittarius (Nov 23-Dec 21) You have nothing to lose and everything to potentially gain so go for it. Capricorn (Dec 22-Jan 20) Make sure you call in any outstanding debts that are owed to you this month. Aquarius ( Jan 21-Feb 19) Someone has a crush on your partner and you turn a bit green eyed- be careful! Pisces (Feb 20-Mar 20) You’re working too hard for someone else and are being taken advantage of.
Tarot
In the past there where two clear choices about an issue and a path was walked down. Now there appears to be some suffering as a result of what you think was a wrong choice. The future will clear up all of the confusion and you will be happy and content with the outcome.
runes
In the past you had no control over a situation and there was nothing you could do about it. Now you need to get that back and a battle will get underway. You will win, but at a price. The future sees you going on a journey to gain back the part of yourself that you lost during all of this.
“Everything Gets Done”
July Video Releases The Lovely Bones: From Peter Jackson, the director of The Lord Of The Rings trilogy, The Lovely Bones centres on a young girl who has been murdered and watches over her family and her killer from heaven. She must weigh her desire for vengeance against her desire for her family to heal. Stars: Saoirse Ronan, Susan Sarandon & Mark Wahlberg. The Princess & The Frog: Walt Disney’s return to animation is a fairy tale set in Jazz Age-era New Orleans and centered on a young girl named Tiana and her fateful kiss with a frog prince who desperately wants to be human again. Stars: Oprah Winfrey & Terence Howard. Green Zone: During the U.S. led occupation of Baghdad in 2003, Chief Warrant Officer Roy Miller and his team of Army inspectors were dispatched to find weapons of mass destruction believed to be stockpiled in the Iraqi desert. Rocketing from one booby-trapped and
treacherous site to the next, the men search for deadly chemical agents but stumble instead upon an elaborate cover-up that inverts the purpose of their mission. Stars: Matt Damon & Brendan Gleeson. Valentine’s Day: Valentine’s Day follows the intertwining storylines of a group of Los Angelinos as they find their way through romance over the course of one Valentine’s Day in this star studded romantic comedy. Stars: Jessica Alba, Jessica Biel, Ashton Kutcher, Taylor Lautner & Anne Hathaway. Clash of the Titans: The mortal son of the god Zeus embarks on a perilous journey to stop the underworld and its minions from spreading their evil to Earth as well as the heavens. Stars: Sam Worthington & Liam Neeson.
Connemara View Newspaper
The Moon is New on Sunday July 11th. The Moon will pass directly in front of the Sun giving a total solar eclipse, but this will only be visible from a narrow strip of the southern Pacific Ocean and southern South America. Here, the new crescent Moon will then appear in the western sky after sunset, but it will probably not be easily visible until Friday 16th. It sets a little later each succeeding evening. The Moon is Full on Monday 26th in Capricornus. The Full Moon lies opposite to the Sun, so as the Sun is setting in the north-west, the Moon is rising in the south-east; it shines all night, and sets again at sunrise the next morning. Then, as it wanes gibbous over the following week, the Moon continues to rise in the late evening, but it stays up later each morning. Mercury was at superior conjunction (almost directly behind the Sun) on June 28th; throughout July, it is setting only a few minutes after sunset. We are very unlikely to see this elusive little planet this month. Venus is visible in the W sky as soon as it starts to get dark and doesn’t set in the NW until late in the evening. The ‘Evening Star’ is so brilliant it can be seen even against a bright twilight sky. Relative to the stars, Venus is moving rapidly SE, right across the constellation of Leo. It passes just a degree above Regulus (the brightest star in Leo) on the evening of Saturday 10th but Venus far outshines any of the stars and any of the other planets too. Mars is in the W sky at dusk and it sets in the NW shortly before midnight. At the start of July, Mars lies almost midway between brilliant Venus to its lower right and slightly brighter Saturn to its upper left. As the month goes by, Mars moves leftwards towards Saturn but is rapidly pursued by Venus. On the evening of Friday 30th, Mars stands directly below Saturn, less than 2 degrees away, with Venus about 10 degrees further right. Relative to the stars, Mars is moving steadily SE leaving Leo and crossing into Virgo on July 19th. It appears about the same brightness as Regulus but it shines
July 2010
with a steadier, more orange light. If you catch a glimpse of the young crescent Moon after sunset on Thursday July 15th it will be right below Mars. This month, Jupiter is the only planet visible in the dawn sky. The giant planet is rising in the east around midnight and it is well up in the SE at dawn. Although it’s not as brilliant as Venus, Jupiter can be seen even when the sky is growing bright. Relative to the stars, Jupiter is virtually stationary in Pisces. In the telescope, Jupiter shows a disc growing to nearly 45 arc-seconds in diameter and it may be possible to make out its dark belts of cloud-though in May, the South Equatorial Belt faded, leaving the North Equatorial Belt as the only strong, dark band. The famous Great Red Spot, normally visible as a hollow in the edge of the SEB, should be near the centre of the disc on the mornings of July 2nd, 7th, 9th, 14th, 19th, 21st, 26th and 28th. In binoculars, Jupiter’s four major moons may often be seen as tiny points of light in a near-straight line to either side of the planet. Early on the morning of Sunday July 4th our own Last-Quarter Moon will be above Jupiter, and slightly to the left. Almost a month later, on the morning of Saturday 31st, having travelled right around the sky, the waning gibbous Moon will be back beside Jupiter. Saturn is in the W sky at dusk, and set around midnight. As I described above, Mars and Venus are further right, but moving leftwards and Mars reaches Saturn by the end of July. Saturn is just a little brighter (and whiter) than Mars. Relative to the stars, Saturn is moving very slowly SE in Virgo, well to the right of its brightest star Spica which is a little brighter than Saturn. On the evening of Friday 16th, the crescent Moon will be below and to the left of Saturn. Meteors: There are various minor meteorshowers which are active in July, mainly with radiants in the Capricornus-Aquarius area. Towards the end of the month we may also start to see the first of the Perseids, always worth watching, which peak in August. John Claró
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Dental
Beauty Anna’s Nail Bar & Tanning Salon. Bridge St., Clifden. 095-30001. 2nd Anniversary Offer: Book a treatment before July 14th & receive a 10% discount. Hand File & Polish only €13. Get Bikini Ready! Vibroplate – One hour workout in 10 minutes just €5. Wow Brown Full Body Spray Tan €30. Now Available: Good-bye Nicks, Chips and Smudges… Hello Shellac! UV Colour Coat that lasts at least 2 weeks ! Only €30. Open Tuesday to Saturday 10-5pm. Late evenings by appointment. Hair Gallery. Bridge St. 095-21901. Monday to Saturday 10 – 6. Late night Thursday and Friday by Appointment only. Now available the ‘KeraStraight’ – This celebrity favoured treatment gives the effect of a “permanent blow-dry” and tames softens and smoothes even the frizziest locks! Call in for a free style consultation. Don’t gamble on your Hair. Ring Hedz at the Station House Courtyard on 095-22202 and you’ll pick a winner every time. The stylists are Damian, Andrea, Margaret & Junior Stylist Ashline. See www.hedz.ie. COMING SOON ‘Clifden Hedz Academy’.
The Treatment Rooms at Abbeyglen Castle, Sky Road. Offering hot stone massage, indian head massage, reflexology, Zen spa pedicure/manicure, waxing and California tanning. Summer Specials: 15% off all treatments every Wednesday, Shellac ‘The two week manicure’ – Special Offer €30 and Yonka Facial plus free starter pack €65. Open 9-6 Monday to Saturday. Sunday 12 – 5. Non residents welcome. For appointments call 095-21306.
Cancer Care
Clifden Outreach Service by Cancer Care West at the Clifden Health Centre opposite Clifden Hospital on the 4th Thursday of every month. Drop- in, information and support service. 091-545-000. www.cancercarewest.ie.
Complementary Health
Acupuncture Clinic, Maara Mulgrew Lic Ac. - Gentle treatment for all types of pain, boosts immune system & reduces stress. Wide range of conditions treated. Ciúin Health & Beauty, Bridge St, Clifden. Tel 087-970-1648www.acupunctureclinic.ie. 5 Rhythms Movement Meditation Practice with Caitriona Nic Ghiollaphádraig How about taking a day out to relax, rejuvenate and enjoy yourself? A day of movement and fun, good food and a beautiful venue. Sunday 25th July.
Tranquillity Room, Kylemore Pass Hotel. €65 including lunch. Send a deposit of €30 to Deora Dé, Finisglen, Recess, Connemara, Co. Galway. 095-34664. info@deorade. com. www.deorade.com Damien Stoney. Neuromuscular Therapist ANMPT. Sports, Deep Tissue & Relaxation Massage, Dry Needling, Physical Therapy, Change Sensations In Your Body. 087-125-2578. Clifden Holistic Centre. Kinesiology, food testing, acupuncture, Bowen Therapy, massage and hypnotherapy at An Bhean Fheasa Health Shop, Lr Market St, Clifden.095-30671. Open Mon-Sat 10-5 p.m. Connemara Seaweed Baths Leenane. Set at the waters edge overlooking Killary harbour in the picturesque village of Leenane, here you will find a tranquil setting with candlelight and soft music to take your stress away. Relax in the only saltwater seaweed baths in Connemara. Open Daily 11-8pm. Contact 095-42408. Reiki / Seichem. Experience the calm & healing energies of this beautiful treatment, which is drug free & non-invasive. These powerful energies can heal one on the mental, emotional, spiritual & physical levels. Qualified Reiki / Seichem Master & Practitioner, Call Yvonne for appointment. 086-365-3266.
Counselling
Counselling and psychotherapy. Úna McKeever M.Sc., M.I.A.H.I.P., M.I.A.C.P. is a fully accredited Psychotherapist/Counsellor who offers private and confidential counselling. For an appointment call 087-250-5015. email: unamckeever21@gmail.com. Psychotherapy and counselling, Diploma in Psychotherapy. For further enquires or appointments. Contact Monica Lydon on 087-641-1625 or email: monicalydon@hotmail.
Send in your news, views & photos to news@connemaraview.com 095-22888 Page 16
July 2010
Fitness Martial art classes at the Connemara Judo Academy in the Clifden Town Hall on Saturdays, we cater for children from 7yrs to 14yrs, youth and adults 15yrs to 60 yrs, contact Paraic on 086-356-5590, or enrol for classes on Saturdays between 2pm and 4pm in the Clifden Town Hall. Clifden Station House Leisure Centre. 095-30433. leisure@ clifdenstationhouse.com. Fitness classes, Swimming Lessons, Aqua Aerobics, Circuit Training, Pilates, Personal Training.
Health Insurance
Why pay more than you have to for your health insurance? No penalties if you switch. All served waiting periods are recognised by Hibernian Aviva Health. Call Hennelly Finance on 091-586-500 or call Helena on 086-809-5607. Hennelly Financial Services Ltd. T/A Hennelly Finance is regulated by the Financial Regulator.
Opticians
Ní Ráighne Opticians. Bridge St., Clifden. 095-30995. Wide selection of designer frames and sunglasses. Eye exams - €35. Medical cards and PRSI welcome. FREE Upgrade to Transitions lenses in July with the purchase of single vision lenses and frames.
Next Issue: August 5th Connemara View Newspaper
I suppose the weather is often the topic most associated with gardening. Gardeners the world over are seldom happy with what we have. It is either too wet or dry or too hot or cold. We have many ways to try and counteract these problems and we also have a plethora of sayings associated with the weather. Over the past few months, our problem has been a strange one for Connemara with a lack of rain and high temperatures. The soil has been parched and baked hard in some places. This heat follows on from the very cold weather so it will be said that the first six months of 2010 were most noticeable for their lack of rain. Watering is one of my pet hates; I know it is important for containers and newly planted trees and shrubs. But having to water flowers and herbaceous beds is a real drag and the trouble is that if you start, the plants don’t send down good roots; they tend to hug the surface and then when you forget to water they have no hope of survival. Watering is also a very wasteful exercise, especially if you use a hose pipe. I have heard a number of people complain about the lack of water at present, the low levels in the reservoirs and the possibility of water shortages, so we all have to play our parts in making sure that we conserve water. When planting trees it is a good idea to put a piece of perforated pipe into the planting hole, leaving a few centimetres sticking above ground level. This allows you to water the roots of the tree and not all the ground around it. The newly planted trees on the Ballyconneely road have such a system and I know that the dedicated volunteers from the Clifden Tidy Towns group are keeping them watered. Look out for the other gardens and planters maintained by this group, they are doing a brilliant job on our behalf. Pots and window boxes should have some form of trays
The Future of Health Supplements
under them in order to conserve water and although it is late to be talking about hanging baskets, it is worth thinking of the future. I have on occasion placed a small piece of plastic in the bottom quarter of the basket inside the lining which traps some of the water. If the weather changes and you are worried about water logging it is a simple matter of putting a few holes in the plastic and allowing the water to escape. Another idea which we should be exploring is putting rain barrels under a down pipe or even constructing a rain tank which could collect rain water off the roof. Of course during the dry weather this would have been a waste of time but we have to plan for the future. A number of people have asked about trees which have colourful bark as well as the interest from leaf or flower. There are a great many different ways of looking at this and I love the patterns which can be seen in some of the most ordinary trees. The common silver birch is stunning with its silver to grey bark. Ash trees and hazel have their strange patterns while large trees of beech and oak also have wonderful and colourful bark. Of course there are certain trees which are noted for their colourful bark and these would generally belong to the maple, birch and willow family. I will go through these in more details. Maple: Acer cratagifolium and pensylvanicum have green and white streaked bark, often with red or pink tints. Acer grosseri has white stripes. Almost all of this family has something to recommend them; the new growth, twigs and small branches are often highly coloured although this colour usually fades as the growing season moves on. Birch: Betula alleghaniensis has amber or golden brown colour. Betula jermyns has peeling bright white bark while betula pendula is like the one seen in the fields, silvery white when young to almost black when older. Acer utilis has very spectacular creamy white or sometimes dark copper brown stems. One of the best things about birch is that it never or seldom blocks out a view; even when large it lets light and air through. Eucalyptus: E. camaldulensis has grey/brown and cream markings, E. Glaucescens has white bark and E. blobulus has a rich chocolate brown. The biggest problem with Eucalyp-
On Tuesday June 22nd I travelled to Brussels to the European Parliament at the invitation of Marian Harkin MEP. I had been invited to attend a Round Table Discussion about the legislation to set Maximum Permitted Levels of Vitamins, Minerals and Supplements. Whether you take nutritional supplements or not, this legislation is very important because it has the potential to reduce consumer choice and curtail individual freedom. Marian Harkin explained that the core of the European ethos was to ensure the “freedom of movement across Europe of people, goods and services”. How does this affect supplements? Well, each country in Europe has its own maximum permitted levels which tend to be a lot lower than the maximum levels of supplements in Ireland and the UK. For the purposes of bureaucracy, to make things simpler for legislators, levels have to become uniform across the whole of Europe regardless of what levels we, in Ireland, as consumers prefer to choose. This change in legislation is presented to the people as change for safety’s sake. (Did you ever hear of anyone dying from a vitamin overdose?) There are actually no recorded deaths anywhere worldwide from the ingestion of nutritional supplements apart from a three year old child in New Zealand who choked on a vitamin-compare that to the statistics of people who die from correct doses of prescribed pharmaceutical drugs-about 1/3 of all patients according to the American Journal of Medicine. So, for example, if someone feels a cold coming on and would like to take 1000mg of Vitamin C, in future you may not be able to do so, because levels of Vitamin C and other nutrients will be reduced to such low levels that they will become ineffectual. This legislation is based on poor science regarding safety anyway, because so far, to determine what is safe, the EFSA’s Science and Technical Department have used isolated synthetic nutrients and applied them to inappropriate subjectsthose who are ill or who have no need of such a vitamin. Synthetic nutrients behave very differently within the body than natural sources of a vitamin or mineral. The scientists say they have to calculate the risk of a supplement to every category of person within society, from infants to adults,
to elderly and sick, to pregnant women and children. Why would they presume that people in each category would be using the same supplements? It is unlikely. With regard to ‘risk’, Robert Verkerk of the Alliance for Natural Health argued that approximately 12% of the population suffer with wheat and/or gluten intolerance which can lead to coeliac disease, yet there are no warnings on foods that contain gluten or wheat and no restrictions of such products. As it is impossible to provide a 0% risk factor for everyone for every product, that same logic should be applied to VMS’s. Mr Verkerk went on to point out that there are significant weaknesses in most of the scientific methods being considered by the European Commission for determination of Maximum Permitted Levels. Mr. Verkerk and Marian Harkin and others are very concerned that this legislation would cause an “infringement of freedom of speech and unjustifiable restriction of consumers’ access to safe products.” It is no wonder that this is such a confusing issue. Consider that one Brazil nut contains over three times the maximum level of selenium recommended by one scientific model, the BfR. One large raw carrot contains about 7.2mg of beta carotene, around 3.6 times the maximum level of beta-carotene in food supplements, again according to the model BfR. If it becomes illegal to sell supplements at the current levels, will you or I be breaking the law by eating two carrots at dinner time? One wonders why the European Commission are really bothering to introduce this legislation because it makes no logical, rational sense at all, reduces consumer choice and more detrimentally I think, reduces the opportunity for people to take
Connemara View Newspaper
July 2010
tus is that they shed leaves and sections of bark all through the year, so there is a fair bit of work keeping them tidy. Another worth looking out for is Myrtus luna or Glenleam Gold. These have a wonderful red to brown bark. A number of cherry trees have good colour including Prunus manckii. Rubus biforus and thibetanus have beautiful silvery grey to white stems; these are more like big shrubs than trees, as is cornus siberica with its dramatic winter colour. Finally there is Arbutus x andrachnoids which has reddish brown peeling bark. Other than keeping grass under control, there is not too much to do in the garden. Weeding should be left for the time being if possible, especially when the ground is dry. In fact any soil disturbance should be avoided as the weeds and baked earth helps keep moisture in the soil. Indoor plants should be blooming at present. They often become too large for their pots; it is possible to divide them, preferably after flowering. Like any plant, you can cut the roots apart and re-pot the smaller plants into different pots. Make sure that the new pots are not too large. Water the new plants often until they establish. New and exotic seeds can also be planted and the plants will establish themselves over the summer. The wild flowers are looking splendid at present and as I always say more attention should be paid to this wonderful resource. I recently visited a wonderful wild flower garden near Roundstone. Acres of the most beautiful flowers dotted this land, and in a relatively small space, almost every wildflower which grows in Connemara was thriving. The garden is managed very well; the taller grasses are kept under control by using a strimmer and in other parts animals are allowed to graze. The rocks are covered in stonecrop and higher up low gorse and heather form a perfect matt. What was nice to see and important for any garden, be it wild or tamed, was that the natural features were enhanced rather than disguised. The wet areas were bog gardens and the rocks, natural rockeries. Of course this was a natural space but it is being managed and some areas have grass cut tight which shows up the natural features even better. Enjoy the summer, take time to relax in your garden, and keep the questions coming to me. Breandan O Scanaill
responsibility for their own health. It could also lead to food supplements being re-classified as medicine which would mean that nutritional supplements would either disappear or become only available from your GP. Terri Conroy, An Bhean Fheasa Health Food Shop, Clifden Photo: Terri Conroy (left) of An Bhean Fheasa Health Food Shop, Clifden with MEP Marian Harkin (second from right) and some fellow Health Food Shop owners at a Round Table Discussion on the Maximum Permitted Levels of Vitamins, Minerals and Supplements in Brussels in June.
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New Trad Show Begins
After weeks of rehearsals, the full cast of ‘Trad in the West’ took time out for this photo before their debut show on Monday July 5th, while audiences filled the rows of seats in the Station House Theatre, keen to experience the talent of this home grown Connemara show. As well as the full time cast of superbly talented musicians, singers and dancers shown here, there will also be guest performances throughout the run of the show. A standing ovation on the opening night cemented the appetite of both visitors and locals for the
exhilarating show, which will run every Monday night at the theatre for July and August at 9pm sharp. Photo: (L-r): Conall Flaherty, Doireann Sheridan, Shauna Keaney, Maria Sheridan, Steven Coohill (recent Under 15 Connacht Champion), Show Producer Marie Walsh, Lavinia O’ Malley, Emma O Sullivan, Eileen O’ Malley and Ronan Canavan.
Comhaltas News
Our June session took place in Tom King’s Bar and was a great success with a large attendance of musicians and followers. The youth session as always had a great amount of young musicians and the Senior Session was a great success again with some new faces and some visitors also taking part. Thanks to Tom and Richard for hosting the night. Our July Music Session will take place in the Vickers Bar in the Alcock and Brown Hotel on Friday 23rd July. Again the Youth Session will start at 8.30pm with the Senior Session after at 9.30. All are welcome especially musicians and remember its free! If you want to join Comhaltas you can join on the night and for our members, we will be distributing our Treoir magazine at the July Session. For any further information, please contact Marie on 086 401 5342.
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Clifden Comhaltas goes to Bofin! Plans are underway for Clifden Comhaltas to sail the seas to Inishbofin for their September Session. It promises to be a great event with a large gathering hoping to travel. Check the next issue of the Connemara View for confirmed details and date!
approximately one hour. Tickets are €10 and will be available on the door.
John Beag CD Launch
Renowned Connem mara singer John Beag Ó Flathartha of Leitir Mealláin launched his M llatest CD ‘Coinnigh le a Sheáin’ in mid June. The album consists T of many Irish tradio ttional and folk songs sshowcasing his unique vocal style and is on v ssale now in many local
Clifden Feis On Saturday the 19th of June, there was a great gathering of young musicians and followers in the Station House Hotel. This year instead of doing exams, all the music students of Marie Walsh, took part in a Feis. The day was a massive success and it gave young people the chance of taking part in a feis and gaining a medal/certificate. It also gave them the feel of performing in front of a judge and in front of their family and friends. A large amount of people came to hear the feis and going on this year’s great success, I hope to run the Feis again next year with a view to extending it over a night to include a concert and to include the whole Connemara area. Thanks to all participants, their families, our fantastic Judge Shona Flaherty and the Clifden Station House. Keep up the great work everyone! Marie Walsh
Culture Night 2010
Oughterard is gearing up to host an action-packed Culture Night celebration on Friday September 24th from 5pm until late. Culture Night festivities are taking place in 20 cities and towns all over Ireland and Oughterard is the only town in County Galway taking part in the national initiative. Performers and others such as dancers, musicians, singers, actors, street performers, historians, poets and writers are currently being sought to showcase their work at venues all around Oughterard, while a call has also been put out for artists to take part in the Culture Night Art Trail. A volunteer graphic designer is urgently needed to help design the Oughterard Culture Night brochure in early July and volunteers are also required to assist with the organisation of the event and to help on the night itself. The event is being coordinated by uachtarARTS Oughterard Community Arts Group in conjunction with Clann Resource Centre. To find out more, contact Cliona or Maria at Clann Resource Centre on 091- 557633, or email uachtarts@hotmail.com.
Summer Dramatic Recital
The seminal volume by J.M. Synge ‘The Aran Islands’ will be performed weekly at the Station House Theatre by renowned Connemara dramatists Tegolin Knowland and Sean Coyne. Well known Irish poet Eamon Grennan has adapted significant scenes from the book and created a ‘dramatic recital’, which is not described as a play but does comprise of play-like elements. It is partly a romantic lyrical evocation of this wild place, partly a series of anecdotes, partly an almost anthropological study of the people’s lives, their habits, their folktales and so on. ‘The Aran Islands’ will be performed every Tuesday in July and August at 9:30pm, lasting
July 2010
outlets tl t around dC Connemara. Photo: John Beag and his son Liam dropped in to The Bens Music Shop on Bridge St, Clifden to officially launch the new album and are pictured here with proprietor John O’ Reilly. Photo courtesy of John O’ Reilly
‘Riding High’ in Galway
Lynda Cookson, well known artist and artist-profile writer in Connemara, is celebrating the recent purchase of two large horse oil paintings by Galway’s Radisson Blu Hotel. Her ‘Warriors’ painting hangs in the entrance to the Atrium bar and ‘Beach Boy’ hangs in i the vestibule of the hotel. Cookson’s C celebration takes t form of ‘Riding High’, an the e exhibition of her work, in the D D’Arcy Suite of the Radisson s Blu Hotel for the week J July 12-18th inclusive. The O Opening Night is scheduled for f 7.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m. on T Tuesday 13 July 2010 and is o open to the public. Music is by Kevin Coyne and Peter Carey. K Guests are invited to wear an arty hat, scarf or bow tie to join in the fun of an “arty party” and booking is essential for catering purposes. On July 19th “Riding High” moves to the Moycullen Shopping Centre for two weeks until 1 August, with more than thirty guest artists joining Cookson and more than two hundred paintings on show. Visit www.lyndacookson.com for more details. Photo: ‘Caballo Libre’ by Lynda Cookson
Final Exhibition
Artist Cheryll Kinsley Potter’s farewell exhibition of paintings was opened in the Oughterard Tourist Office by Fr. Jimmy Walsh on Friday June 12th. The exhibition, titled ‘Trees’ was Cheryll’s way of bidd ding farewell to O Oughterard and C Connemara where sshe has lived and p painted for the p past 12 years. She iis returning to be w with her family in h her native Lond don. The exhibition also displays her magnificient icons ic worked in the Greek orthodox style as seen here in the photo with Cheryll and Fr Jimmy and she is wished all the very best for the future by the Oughterard community. Photo: Cheryll Kinsley Potter and Fr. Jimmy Walsh at Cheryll’s farewell exhibition on June 12th. Photo by Tom Broderick Photos
Connemara View Newspaper
Outside: Insight at Brigit’s Garden
The third Annual ‘Outside: Insight, Sculpture in the Gardens’ will open at Brigit’s Garden, Roscahill on 11th July at 3pm with interactive performances by Knee Jerk and Ann Marie Healy. The public are invited to participate in recording animal noises suitable for mythical animals, which will be played back over the course of the exhibition. This year’s exhibition runs to the end of August and can be viewed by all visitors to the popular Celtic-themed gardens. Brigit’s Garden is open daily from 10am to 5.30pm. Further information and images can be viewed on www. brigitsgarden.ie or see www.galwayartscentre.ie.
Connemara’s Musical Youth
The annual Mol an Óige summer concert took place in Letterfrack Church on Sunday June 20th, when almost 40 young musicians from all over Connemara once again delighted the audience with a tremendous display of musical talent and entertainment. The proceeds raised on the night will go towards the recording of an album of music by the musicians themselves and it is hoped that this will be avail-
Ross Lake House Hotel (Killaguile House) Rosscahill Ross Lake House Hotel is tucked away off the N59, the Galway to Clifden road. Approximately halfway between Oughterard and Moycullen there are signs for the house. A fairly narrow winding road leads into the hillside and even when you come to the entrance, there is still a fair drive up to the house. This drive is under beautiful trees with a tumbling river along side. The house is described as a “detached asymmetrical 3 bay 2 storey house with projecting bay and service yard attached, c1860. The building is rendered and has a hipped roof. Windows refitted, portico added, c1990. The interior retains some original features including joinery and chimneypieces. Set in landscaped grounds”. James E. Jackson (1824-1907) owned the townland of Killaguile, which is situated in the parish of Killannin and the barony of Moycullen. That town land takes its name from Cill an Ghaill, possibly meaning ‘the church of the foreigner’. James bought the property in August 1853 from Robert Martin of nearby Ross House. A family connection arose, possibly from that deal, or because of them being neighbours. James married Madeline Bushe of Dublin in 1863, daughter of Judge Arthur Bushe. Robert‘s sister Marian was the second wife of the Judge. Around the time of his marriage, he built the house at Killaguile which is now known as the Ross Lake House Hotel. James Edward was the second son of the Reverend James E. Jackson, rector of Ardee, County Louth and later Dean of Armagh. This gentleman had moved to Ireland from England and lived with his cousins in the North. He married his cousin Lydia and they had a couple of children. Shortly after the birth of their second child, Lydia died. A number of years later he
Connemara View Newspaper
able by Christmas of this year. Photo: Front (l-r): Sorcha O’ Malley, Caoimhe Flaherty, Steven Coohill, Orla Leavy. 2nd row (l-r): Marie Walsh, Seamus Flaherty, Conall Flaherty, Ronan Flaherty, Cliodhna Hallissey, Sarah DeLappe, James Coyne, Niamh McDermott. 3rd row (l-r): Plunkett O’ Toole, Ashling Canavan, Florence Pryce-Williams, Jade Walsh, Hazel Corbett, Emily O’ Reilly, Emma McCann, Doireann Sheridan, Ciara Sheridan. 4th row (l-r): Nada Uí Chuirrín, Rian Sheridan, Phoebe Fitzpatrick, Katie Nee, Einín Tynan, Shauna Keaney, Ryan Maher, Mairéad Nee. Back (l-r): Brendan Hernon, Proinsias Hernon, Ciarán Faherty, Labhrás Hernon, Brian Holmes, John Joyce, Jenna Mitchell, Alan Joyce. Photo courtesy of Padraic Lyden
Trad in the Cleggan Sun
Once again the Dusty Banjos Cleggan Music Weekend was a resounding success and the large and varied group played in Newman’s Bar on Friday 18th June and in Oliver’s Bar on Saturday and Sunday. Over 50 musicians, both local and from Galway, Cork, France, Germany and Sweden enjoyed a weekend of brilliant sunshine and lively music. Photo: Some of the Dusty Banjos musicians playing at Oliver’s Bar during their 2010 Cleggan Music Weekend. Photo courtesy of Heather Greer
married for the second time. His new wife was again a Lydia, and James E, who was born in County Louth was of that family. James Edward Jackson went on to be a land agent for Lord Iveagh at Ashford Castle. He was also a farmer and one of the county magistrates. He is remembered as being a good landlord and one who helped his tenants in time of need. Killaguile House and its estate comprised of 1200 acres of good quality limestone land, and Jackson, in line with the practice of some of the many landlords of that time began improving his holding. Land was cleared and crops set. Ornamental trees were planted around the estate and walls were built which divided the farm into its various parts. The surrounding woods would have had paths cleared through them, allowing easy access to the shooting which was available in the cover. The local lakes would have had small piers or landing places built to facilitate fishing. A report from the early 20th century names Killaguile as being one of ‘the well wooded demesnes in this part of Galway’. James E and Madeline went on to have ten children, seven of whom survived. Their eldest son, named after his father and grandfather was born about 1867. He went on to become a civil engineer and worked for some time with the construction of the Galway to Clifden railway line. In fact, the track way passed through the estate and fairly close to the house. The plans for constructing a railway line through Connemara were numerous and the ideas and plans had been bandied about since the late 1860’s or early 70’s. There were many proposals, with some people favouring the more populated coastal route, but for whatever reason the less populated mid section of Connemara was chosen.
July 2010
As well as the many plans and discussions, there were also many false starts. In 1890 some work had begun and hopes were high for employment and opening up the development potential, but within the year these works were closed. The line finally opened on January 1st, 1895 but even then it only went part of the way, terminating at Oughterard. It took until July of that year for it to reach Clifden. There must have been great rejoicing along the way, especially in the various estates such as the Jackson house, knowing that their produce would find a larger market and reach those markets in even shorter time than in the past. For the engineers like James this first section between Galway and Oughterard or even Maam Cross was fairly easy. Digging in this part was through bog or sandy soil, especially around Killaguile. It was not very good practice for the solid rock they were going to have to work their way through as the line made its way closer to Clifden. James Edward died and the estate was passed to his second son Alfred. He later left Connemara and emigrated to India, where he spent the rest of his life. Subsequently the land was divided by the Land Commission and the house and reduced estate was sold. Between the 1920’s and 1960’s the house had a number of different owners, eventually being bought by a German couple who converted it into an hotel in 1969 and renamed it Ross Lake House. In the 1980’s the house was bought by Henry and Eileen Reid who spent the next few years restoring it and the house is still run by the Reids as an hotel and restaurant. Breandan O Scanaill
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Acknowledgements Robert McDonagh Railway View, Clifden, whose death occurred on March 31st 2010. Roberts’s family wish to express sincere thanks to everyone who helped and supported us during this sad time. We would like to thank all those who sympathised, visited and did what was necessary at that time. We would also like to extend sincere appreciation to everyone that knew Robert and for their involvement in his life.
Acknowledgement Lillian Little & Veronica O’Malley recently took part in the Dublin City Mini Marathon and would like to take this opportunity to express their sincere thanks to all who contributed to their charities, Ability West and Our Ladys Hospital For Sick Children.
World MS Day in Connemara Many of us take it for granted that when we get out of bed in the morning that we can walk, talk, see straight or even stand straight. For many with multiple sclerosis, none of this is a certainty. Multiple Sclerosis is a progressive neurological condition that can affect any part of the body at any stage. There is no known cure for the condition and therefore fundraising helps with finding a cure and providing care and information to those who currently have the disease. A Coffee Day was held at Connemara Community Radio on Wednesday 26th May and what a huge success it was. I am eternally grateful to the lady bakers who supplied me with such a variety of home baked cakes, buns and goodies; the variety was spectacular and delicious. To all who called in, workers from Forum, Connemara West, Conservation College, GMIT, friends, family, tourists and those who couldn’t attend on the day, all your donations were overwhelmingly generous. I would in particular like to thank Pam Lynch who despite her wheelchair being damaged attended the Coffee Day and spoke honestly and
Death Notices Christy Butler, Oughterard Michael (Sonny) Clancy, Market St. Clifden Jacqueline Fanning - Glashillaun, Renvyle Tom Kearns, Landsboro, Co. Longford & formally of Coral Strand, Ballyconneely Peter King, Roscahill Seamus King, Claddaghduff Lena Lydon (née King), Crocnaraw, Moyard John McDonagh, Omey Island, Claddaghduff, & Cleggan Kate McGrath, Connemara Maura O’Malley (née Stuart), Oughterard Steven John Tierney, Oughterard Mathew Ward, Cleggan Bridie Watts (née O’Malley), Oughterard Bridget Williams (née Davis), Birkenhead, England & formally of Renvyle The Connemara View would like to extend sympathies to the family and friends of the deceased. This list is compiled from various sources and we apologise for any errors or omissions.
frankly about her reality of living with MS and also to John McDonald from the Galway Branch of MS Ireland who also attended the day, providing information on what care and assistance MS Ireland can and do provide. A total of €471.19 was raised on the day and €73 collected from boxes in the area. The proceeds have been donated to the Galway Branch of MS Ireland. This event would not have been possible without the help and support of my colleagues at the radio. I would like to thank all who contributed in any way to the Coffee Day and hope to help raise funds again next year. Help and advice is available from MS Ireland, an organisation hugely active in the Connemara area on www. msireland.com. Colleen Curran
Broadcasting 11 am to 9 pm each day on 87.8 FM & 106.1 FM Weather Forecast & Community Notices at 3pm, 4pm and 8pm. Sponsored by Broderick
Wedding Bells Congratulations to Gráinne McLoughlin of Cleggan and Declan Flood of Naas, Co. Kildare who were married on June 19th at Our Lady of the Wayside Church, Ballynahinch with a reception afterwards at Rosleague Manor Hotel. Photo courtesy of Theresa McLoughlin
Connemara View Newspaper 7,500 copies distributed monthly throughout Connemara 095-22888 087-290-9351 news@connemaraview.com www.connemaraview.com Editor-in-Chief/Publisher: Ellen McDonough News Editor: Catherine Pryce Distribution Mgr: John Dunne Graphic Design/Layout: Marie-Noelle Biddulph Advertising/Admin: Paula Bann Contributors: John Amenhauser, Hannah Anthony, Tom Broderick, John Cláro, Susan Cockburn, Dorothy Conneely, Laurence Conneely, Richard Conneely, Bríd Connell, Tony Coyne, Pauline Cronin, Colleen Curran, Richard de Stacpoole, Su Eldred, Paul Fitzpatrick, Paul Gannon, Heather Greer, Sinéad Grimes, Leo Hallissey, Michael Harris, Padraic Heanue, Aoife Herriot, Patrick Howard, Paul Hughes, Caroline Joyce, Patricia Keane, Alice Kennelly, Padraic Lyden, Caitriona Ní Scolaí, Brendan Madden, Alan McDonnell, Connor McDonough-Flynn, Theresa McLoughlin, Kate McNamara, Paddy Meagher, Neasa Mhic Dhonncha, Ann Mitchell, Veronica O’ Malley, John O’ Reilly, Breandan O Scanaill, Maurice O Scanaill, Claire O’ Shaughnessy, Sinéad O’ Sullivan, Alan Pryce, Saoirse Roberts, Ruth Rogers, Rose Rima, Tina Schley, Mairéad Seoige, Margaret Sheehan, Olivia Staunton, Cepta Stephens, Remik Waligorski, Amber Walsh Oleson, Marie Walsh, Damian Ward, Declan Weir. Plus many local schools, groups & organisations. Photography by staff unless credited otherwise.
Next Issue: Thursday, August 5th
Ad Space Reservation Deadline - July 23rd News Deadline - July 28th Directory Classified Deadline - July 28th 095-22888 www.connemaraview.com Page 20
Connemara Community Radio Weekly Schedule
July 2010
Electric, Sweeney Oil, Gannon Sports and The Oil Company.
12-4pm: Repeat of previous evenings broadcast. * Indicates Sponors
Monday: 11am-12 Noon: The Chat Show with
Heather Heanue and Colleen Curran. 4-5pm: Listen Here with Pete Ball. 5.05-6pm: Hooked on Music with John Duane. *Clifden Chamber of Commerce. 6-7pm: Alternate Weeks - As Gaeilge with Caitriona Nic Ghiollaphadraig OR Heyday with Bobbi O Regan. 7-8pm: Talk Sport with Bernard Lee. *Galway CoCo. 8pm: Roundstone Report with Richard de Stacpoole and Anne Conneely. 8.15-9pm: Ann’s Mixed Bag with Ann Conneely. Tuesday: 11am-12 Noon: Magazine Programme with Cliona Sheehan. *Connemara View Newspaper. 4-5pm: Gateway Hour with Peter Hamilton. 5.05-6pm: Jack’s Spot with Jack Tomlinson. 6- 7pm: Live with John Dunne. 7-8pm: Community Matters with Pat Walshe. *Tullycross and Cashel Credit Unions. 8pm: Cashel Report with Bernard Lee. 8.15-8.25pm CIC. 8.25-9pm: Community Matters continued. Wednesday: 11am-12 Noon: FORUM Programme with Cathy Keane and Brendan O’Malley. 4-6pm: Gateway Hour with Mickey Mac. 6- 7pm: My Kind of Music with Martin Conroy. *ClifdenSupply Centre.7-8pm: Lift the Latch with Michael O’ Neill and Helen King. 8pm: Clifden Report with Breandan O’Scanaill. 8.15-9pm: Music with Pat Keaney. Thursday: 11am-12 Noon: Magazine Programme with Mary Roe. 4-5pm: Gateway Hour with Kathleen O’Brien. 5.05-6pm: Fáilte with Mary Corbett Joyce. 6- 7pm: The Food Show with Janet O’Toole. 7-8pm: The Great Outdoors with Breandan O’Scanaill. *Acton Construction.8 pm: Cleggan Claddaghduff Report with Mary Gordon O’Toole. 8.15-9pm: Specialist Music with Breandan O’Scanaill. Friday: 11am-12 Noon: Friday Fix with Samantha Heanue & Priscilla Diamond. 4-5pm: Gateway Hour with Tonya Ni Chuirínn. 5.05-6pm: The Friday Feeling with Margaret Sheehan. 6-7pm: Lyrical Allsorts with Linda O’Malley. 7-8pm: Injury Time with Dave O’Halloran. *AIB Clifden. 8pm: Ballyconneely Report with John O’ Malley. 8.15-9pm: American Country with Brendan Ridge. Saturday: 11am-12 Noon: Monkeying Around with Heather Kearney. 4-5pm: Gateway Hour with Tommy Roe. 5.05-6pm: Pretty Good Day so Far! with Sean Halpenny. 6- 7pm: Blue Highways with Lol Hardiman. 7-9 pm: Music Spectacular Alternate Weeks - Shelter from the Storm with Dave O’ Halloran or Coast to Coast with Paul Phelan. Sunday: 10-11am: Sounds a Bit Irish with Eamonn McLoughlin.11am-12noon: Mass from Clifden. 4-5pm. Listen Here with Pete Ball. 5.05-6pm: Words & Music with Kathleen Faherty. 67pm: Footappin’ Time with Tom Mongan. 7-8pm: Senior Side of the Street with various presenters. *FORUM. 8pm: Ballinakill Report with Paddy Gannon. 8.15-9pm: Decades of Hits with Michael Coyne.
Connemara View Newspaper
Automotive D&N Auto Store. Full selection of oils for marine, motor and agriculture. Motor and tractor parts. Now specialising in number plates: custom, legal and personalised number plates for weddings, hens, birthdays etc. www.irishnumberplates.ie. Open Mon-Sat. Clifden Business Park. 095-30615. 087-274-4165. info@irishnumberplates.ie.
Business Services Embroidery Service at The Connemara Pony Company. Clubs, restaurants, hotels, shops, businesses - uniforms, workwear, sweatshirts, t-shirts, shirts, polos, aprons etc embroidered with your logo. No order too large or small. Competitive rates. Logos designed. Drop in or phone for details 095-30779. 085-771-6322.
Catering A la Carty Catering: For all your home catering needs contact Joe and Olive Carty. 095-22842. 087-260-5961. alacartycatering@gmail.com.
Computers & IT
West). July 14th & 15th, July 21st & 22nd. August 28th & 29th. September 4th & 5th. Duration: 10-1pm and 2-4pm each day. All materials included except paper for final editioning according to amount used. Cost for each course: €250 per person. Courses will take place in Claddaghduff. For details Phone 095-44739 or email: margaretirwin@eircom.net. Martial Arts classes at the Connemara Judo Academy in the Clifden Town Hall on Saturdays. We cater for children from 7 to 14 yrs, youth and adults 15 to 60 yrs. Contact Paraic on 086-356-5590, or enrol for classes on Saturdays between 2pm and 4pm in the Clifden Town Hall. Parent and Toddler Group. Thursday Morning in the Station House Leisure Centre. 11am-12pm. Contact Margaret Sheehan. 095-21741. Childrens Sean Nos Summer Dance Camp, with Emma O’ Sullivan and team. Sean Nos, brush, barrell dancing. Mondays: Ellis Hall Letterfrack 6pm & Elm Tree Centre Clifden 7.30pm. Commencing July 19th . Six weeks €50 per child For children 5-12 years. Contact 086-252-0672 to book (places limited). Shooting Lessons: From the complete novice to the most experienced gun with Shane Bisgood. Coaching for over 30 years in Ireland & the Americas. Call 086-279-5118 or email: shanebisgood@eircom.net.
Employment & Opportunities
An extensive range of animal feeds including the Red Mills and Gain brands now on sale at Clifden Fruit & Veg. Main Street, Clifden. 086-836-5864. Diamonds of Renvyle, 095-43486 For all your - Farm Supplies - Animal Feeds - Hay & Straw - Shavings - Builders Supplies - Cement & Concrete Products - Home Heating Needs and much more. Free Delivery throughout Connemara. Need rushes topped or sprayed ? Contact Conor on 086-248-1979
Education, Courses & Activities Clifden GAA Summer Camp for boys and girls aged 7-14 years old will take place at the Clifden GAA pitch from Monday July 19th to Friday July 23rd. Participants will have the chance to improve their skills and avail of great coaching and supervision by coaches and older players throughout the week between 10am and 2:30pm daily. Registration Day is Saturday July 17th at the pitch from 11am to 1pm and all are welcome. Computer Lessons for Over 55’s. Tuesday and Thursday mornings in The Clifden Library. Justine Delaney. 087-262-5517. jdelaney@ageaction.ie. Do you need help writing or comprehending English? Confidential, Tailored Tutoring and Editing Services Available. Very Reasonable Rates. Will suit your schedule. Contact Patricia O’Toole (B.A., M.A.) on 087-771-7563. “Dusty Banjos” Trad session for beginners/improvers (adults). Learn tunes, play music with other people. Friendly relaxed atmosphere, slow pace. Suit all melody instruments. €5/night. Tuesdays 7.30pm – The Bens Music Shop, Clifden. Info – Heather: 095-44845. New faces always welcome! “Introduction to Dry Point Printmaking”. Four two-day courses offered over the Summer by Margaret Irwin (Mo
Financial / Legal
Experienced Beauty Therapist required. Full-time/parttime position available. Send CV to Relexions Beauty Salon, Market Street, Clifden. Want to Join Avon as an Independent Sales Rep? Unlimited earning potential. No Costs involved to Start. Free Organizer gift with 1st order of €250.00 or more. Please contact either Maria Smyth on 087-263-8414 or Margaret Daniels on 086-816-1910.
Recession Busting Review: Why not avail of our Free financial review to see if we can save you money on all your insurances. Then you will know for sure you are getting the best deal. Call Hennelly Finance on 091-586-500 or call Helena on 086-809-5607. Hennelly Financial Services Ltd. T/A Hennelly Finance is regulated by the Financial Regulator. Bookkeeping & Accounts service for self employed and small businesses. Very experienced financial administrator is available for all your bookkeeping requirements. VAT/ PAYE/PRSI returns, payroll, monthly accounts etc. Contact: Marian Herriott 087-647-8303. email: mherriott4@ gmail.com.
Farming Calf Dehorning and Tagging Service Available. Portable Gas Burner for calves aged 3 weeks - 3 months. Larger cattle also done under local anaesthetic with no pain or blood loss to the animal. Call Donal Staunton on 087-992-2301.
Connemara View Newspaper
July 2010
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Financial / Legal Cashel-Connemara Credit Union. Clifden Office: 095-21101. Cashel Office 095-31128. Therese Thornton, Solicitor, Clifden, Co. Galway. Professional, comprehensive legal service at reasonable rates. Call 087-262-5385 or email ThereseThornton@gmail.com for advice or a quote with no obligation.
The book contains stunning pictures & makes a very affordable gift or keepsake. €2.95. Available from outlets along the Connemara Loop. Order on-line from www. goconnemara.com. All proceeds from the sale of this book are invested back into the Connemara Loop.
Marine
Good home required for Female cat about 8months old, very friendly, neutered. Call 087-904-3410. Going on vacation and not sure who to rely on for proper pet care? The Dog Walker can help! For more information about dog walking and dog sitting or if you have any queries, contact Marta at 087-297-0137 or martathedogwalker@gmail.com.
Photography & DVD Services Video Vault. Main St, Clifden. Call 095-22033. VHS to DVD transfer. Disc repair: 5 discs repaired for €10. Photos restored, rescued & reprinted. Have your photos digitally scanned, burned to CD, ready for print. Open 7 days until late.
Office Supplies & Photocopying Broderick’s Electrical Centres. For the BIGGEST selection of electrical appliances and LCD TVs in the West. Lodge Road, Westport 098-28130. Moneen, Castlebar. 094-904-4735. Free Delivery to anywhere in Connemara.
Video Vault, Main Street, 095-22033. More than just movies. A4 and A3 colour photocopying. Internet access, VHS / camcorder transfer to DVD, faxing, laminating and disc repair. Open 7 days until late. King’s Paper Shop. Main St, Clifden. 095-21119. A4 and A3 colour photocopying. Faxing. Laminating.
Information Services & Media
Pets, Animals & Ponies
Home Furnishings
Does your partner? Call you names, constantly criticise you? Control your access to money/phone/car etc? Monitor your time, threaten you and the children? If so you may be in an abusive relationship. For free, friendly, confidential advice and support call D.V.R. 091-866-740. Connemara AA. Tuesdays, Old School, Recess, 8.30 pm. Wednesdays, Clifden Day Centre, (behind the hospital) 8.30pm. Thursdays, Clifden Day Centre, 8.30pm. Fridays, Ellis Hall, Letterfrack, 9pm. Saturdays and Sundays, Clifden Day Centre 12 noon. Clifden Citizens Information Centre. Free and confidential service to the public. Galway Rd, Clifden. 095-22000 and 087-130-1100. Thurs 7pm-8pm. Friday 10.30am3.30pm. Connemara Community Radio. Letterfrack. 095-41616. Connemara View Newspaper. Clifden. 095-22888. AWARE Depression Support Group meetings take place at the FORUM Office (upstairs), Ellis Hall, Letterfrack on the 1st Thursday of every month at 8pm. Contact Margaret 095-21741 afternoons except Tuesday for more details.
Connolly’s Boarding Cattery near Rossaveal. Open all year for long or short stays. Designed for the safety and comfort of cats following FAB guidelines. All cats must be vaccinated and males neutered. Tel. Maureen on 086-398-8179 or 091-572-000 or visit www.purr.ie.
Items for Sale or Rent Black Lexus, 2001, IS200 SE for Sale, 96k, Bury Handfree Kit, NCT Nov 2011, Air Con, Tax end July, €6,500 ono, can be seen. Phone Terry 087-778-4856. 095-22824. Connemara Bouncing Castles for hire for all occasions, supplied with rain covers, delivered, erected and collected. 095-21219. Honda Quad, 2005, Manual. Fully serviced. €3,750. Call 087-988-6514. For Sale: Girls Bike - Perfect Condition. Call 087-968-1590. Honda 300 ‘Big Red’ €1,800 Call 087-988-6514. For Sale: 1 x ¾ length wetsuit suitable for 10 -12 yrs. Call 087-968-1590. For Sale: One pair of roller blades, size 6-7, complete with knee, elbow & wrists pads. Call 087-968-1590. Mercedes 815 Box Body, 2001, Tested. Very Clean. €5,750 ono. No time wasters. Call 087-988-6514
Properties Book now for your Building Energy Rating certificate. If you are buying or renting a new house or apartment now, you are entitled to a BER. Carried out by specially trained BER assessors, registered by Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI). Call Sinead at Matt O’Sullivan Estate Agents on 095-21066 or e-mail property@mattosullivan. com www.mattosullivan.com. Listing properties for long term rental. Selling your house, renting long-term or applying for SEAI Grants? Then you must have a Building Energy Rating. Contact Oliver Coyne today! 095-35813. 086-238-4195. olivercoyne@gmail.com. Listed on the SEAI Register of BER assessors. For Rent: 2 & 3 bedroom apartments and rooms to let, 5 minutes walk from Clifden town centre, fully furnished. 095-44924 or 087-249-8097.
Local Books New Book: Commemorating the 1916 Easter Rising ‘My Great Walk Across Ireland’ by Daniel Sammon. www. walkacrossireland.com. 095-43492 or 087-260-2717. Second edition of ‘Recipes from the Connemara Loop’ .
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Connemara View Newspaper
Properties
Wedding Videography by Pat Coyne. Professional, friendly service. Two camera operators digitally capture your big day while blending into the background. Portfolio and references available. Package includes 4 copies of the edited video. Packages to suit every budget. Renvyle. 095-43756. 086-406-2394. email: fiddisco@mac.com www.fiddisco.com.
Gutters Connemara Seamless Gutters. Suppliers of roof line cladding and guttering systems. Over 17 years experience. Aluminum, UPvc. Wide range of colours. Free quotations. 095-41180. Gerry: 086-103-1053. Peter: 085-760-4130.
Trade Supplies & Services Alternative Energy & Plumbing
Public Notices Councillor Eilleen Mannion. July Clinic Times: Friday 9th, 16th and 30th from 1-2pm. Available by appointment, for further information contact 087-955-5645. Clinics are held in the upstairs meeting room in Mannions Bar.
Quads
Galway Quads. Quads, buggies, repairs, servicing, accessories. Boley, East Barna. July Special Offer: FIMCO 60 Litre Spray Tank - #1 US TANK – €150 inc. vat. Contact Keith Trill on 087-988-6514. www.galwayquads.com.
Airflow Renewable Energy Solutions, Ballybrit, Galway. 091-764-761.www.airflowireland.ie. Daikin air to water heat pumps. Ground source geothermal heat pumps. IVT heat recovery ventilation. Solar panels. System design & project support. Domestic & commercial. SEAI approved. Cut your oil bill by two-thirds with solar powered water heating. Call Michael Carey for a free no obligation quote. Testimonials from satisfied customers available. SEAI grants available. Carey Solar Powered Systems. Sky Rd. Clifden. 086-603-9299. www.careysolar.com. Liam Shannon Plumbing & Heating Contractor. SEI Registered contractor for Home Energy Savings Scheme. Specialists in Oil, Gas & Renewable Energy Heating Systems. Solar Panels. Boiler Maintenance/Service.Sheeauns, Cleggan 086-248-8853. liamshannon@eircom.net.
Restorations
Church-Castle and Monument. Architectural and ecclesiastical restoration and conservation. Our service: statues repair and repainting. Marble altar works. Stained glass windows. Outdoor statues. Towerbells and clocks. Fountains. Crypts. Church furniture. Stations of the Cross. Vestments. Chalices and monstrances. Grotto statues. Also sandblasting and metal engineering works etc. Purchasing-Statue showroom. Michele Thierbach G.R.A.D. www.studio-michele.com. www.nicholas-antiques.com. 091-556-735.
Insulation West Coast Insulation. Your local cavity wall and attic insulation specialists. Eco bead Platinum. The ONLY SEAI Grant Approved Installer in Connemara. Call us on 087142-1414. Patrick & John Folan, Letterfrack. westcoastinsulations@gmail.com.
Painting
Painting and Decorating: Interior and exterior, timber floors sanded and varnished. Neat and tidy job guaranteed. Also offering garden and lawn maintenance service. Competitive rates. References available. Contact Johnny Coyne, Renvyle, 086-857-0302.
Plant Hire
Noel Connolly Plant Hire. Site work & land drainage. Top quality graded topsoil. Large volume of material available at €70 per load. Prices on extensions and renovations. Keenest prices around. C2 Reg. 095-23781. 086-247-6610.
Signs
Traditional Irish sign writing by ‘Studio Nicholas Connemara’. Moycullen-Tullokyne. 091-556-735. 087-220-3898.
Taxi Service
Building Contractors Ger Cloherty Construction & Groundworks. Claregalway. 087-235-4331. gcloherty@email.com. All agricultural buildings, slatted tanks, horse stables, sillage slabs, retaining walls, sand arenas, demolitions, raft foundations, house build. All groundworks, site clearance, kerbs, footpaths, septic tanks etc.
Plastering & Tiling Tiler specialising in all types of floors & walls; Ceramic, mosaic, marble, terracotta, porcelain, slate, paving. Call for FREE quote & advice. Commercial & residential. Competitive rates, professional throughout. Paul Davis. Tel: 095-23803 Mob: 085-110-3035.
Tyres Omey Tyres. Connemara’s 1st complete mobile tyre fitting centre. Recession Beater: Wholesale prices on new tyres. Best prices guaranteed. 24 Hour - 7 Days. Service throughout Connemara. Now stocking Wipers, Bulbs, Batteries and Oil. Contact Daniel Ryan on 095-44979 / 086-831-3462 or omeytyres@hotmail.com.
TV/Satellite/Broadband
The National Broadband scheme is rolling out in your area soon, for more info contact Frank 083-408-2480. Free to to air satellite service from Harrington Electrical Connemara. Full standard installation with box and dish €160. Hundreds of free to air channels. Call Paul on 087-144-1118. Wireless broadband. Aerial and satellite installation and repair. Peter Keane, Clifden. 095-21827. 087-668-7468.
Websites
Website Design: Creative, professional and affordable websites by Cuán Mara Design, Letterfrack. To view portfolio visit www.cuanmaradesign.com. Phone Caroline Herriott on 086-0791918 or email caroline@cuanmaradesign.com. Two Dog Computer & Business Solutions. Bridge St. 09522194. 086-404-3125. Website design & development.
Wedding Services
Connemara Weddings. Music for your perfect day. Call Eithne on 095-43928 or 087-768-4921. ehannigan@eircom.net. Vintage and modern cars available for weddings, social or corporate travel and airport transfers. Our rare and unique cars are fully PSV licensed and insured. Special midweek rates. Visit our website or call us on 091-506-896 or 087-990-2294. www.getawaylimos.com.
Connemara View Newspaper
Sand, Gravel & Stone
Carpentry Newman Carpentry Services. All carpentry work undertaken by experienced tradesman. Fitted doors, kitchens, stairs, decking, built in wardrobes, PVC fascia and soffit, wooden floors, 2nd Fixing and general maintenance. Competitive rates – Display units made to order. Contact Paddy Newman on 086-316-5978 or 095-44931.
Gardening & Landscaping
Neighbourhood Gardening. Lawns mowed. Tidy beds and borders. Hoeing and weeding. Hedge planting and clipping. Lawns raked and seeded. Tree holes dug. Light pruning duties.Garden labour assist. Kerbing around lawn. Sleepers laid. Base for garden sheds. Compost areas created. Raised bed built. Fence posts replaced. Broken paving fixed. Stone pointing. Servicing all of Connemara. Contact Peter 087-147-3308. NeighbourhoodGardening@gmail.com. Tree pruning, crown reductions, crown thinning, deadwood removal, tree removal, hedge cutting & chipping, est 1998. Alan Linnane. West Coast Tree Surgery. 086-284-8340.
Stonetech, Clifden. Call Seamus on 087-668-7437. The Original Bagged Sand Supplier. Soft & sharp sand, washed gravel & decorative chippings, Bark mulch. Corbett Stone. Natural Connemara Building Stone. 095-21744. 086-247-5619. www.corbettstone.com. Cut stone by the bag or hand picked at rock bottom prices. Any quantity. Flag stones for paving. Unusual shaped stones for your garden. Good quality topsoil by the truck load or 1 ton bags. Delivered promptly. Our prices won’t be beaten. Washed and graded sand and gravel. Decorative stone chippings in a variety of colours for pathways, driveways and patios. Choice gardener’s bark mulch. Free delivery. Headstones. Surrounds, cleaning, inscriptions. Mongan’s Stonecraft. Derryinver, Letterfrack. 095-43473. 087-130-7752. 086-199-1988.
Windows
Gates Connacht Gates Moycullen. Manufacturer of wrought iron gates domestic and commercial. Side gate, railings, balconies, stainless steel handrails, glass balustrades, customised stairs, fire escapes. Registered contractor. 091-868-803. 087-261-6947. Email: conncoatfab@eircom.net.
July 2010
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Connemara Folks in Fotos New Arrivals
Welcome to the new babies! (Left to right) Benjamin Patryk was born on May 10th to Emilia and Remik Waligorski of Clifden. Harrison Stephen was born on October 2nd 2009 to Gareth and Hannah Anthony of Clifden. James Patrick was born on March 19th to Katie Madden and Shane Lacey of Claddaghduff; grandson to Thomas and Carmel Madden and Maria Lacey.
First Communion & Confirmation
Garda Claire O’ Shaughnessy from Clifden travelled to Chernobyl in April along with Garda Shane Nallen of Clifden Garda Station as part of the An Garda Síochána/Chernobyl Childrens Project. They are pictured here with the members of the project team, charity founder Adi Roche and some local children.
Top: Roundstone National School students with Fr. John McCarthy. (L-r): Eoin Mahon, Ruairi King, Dylan King and Bronwyn Laffey. Below right: The students of Aillebrack National School and Ballyconneely National School made their First Holy Communion on May 2nd in Ballyconneely Church. Back (l-r): Luke Duane, Keith Roberts, and Jamie Nee. Front (l-r): Roisin Mannion, Luke O’Neill, Andrew King, James Ruddy and Amy Conneely. Below left: Cashel and Roundstone National Schools who celebrated their Confirmations recently.
Six children were presented with special certificates on their graduation from the Ballyconneely Playschool Group on Friday June 25th and will now attend Ballyconneely NS next September. (L-r) Caoimhe Joyce, Joe Conroy, John Davis, Lewis McCallion, Carragh Birmingham, Jack O’ Neill. Photos courtesy of Caroline Joyce
Super Valu Photo Contest June Winner ‘Water in Connemara’ was the theme for the June contest. There was a record number of entries of a very high standard in June. This tranquil reflective scene by Michelle Coyne from Carraroe was chosen as the winner. The theme for July is ‘Unforgettable Faces’ and as usual, the fantastic prize of a €50 Super Valu shopping voucher is on offer for the winning photo. These photos should celebrate the expressions and individuality of the face; for example, smiles, frowns, funny faces or faces full of character and of any age. As the winning photo will be displayed in Super Valu, Clifden and online at www.connemaraview. com, it is advised to have permission from the person/ people featured before entering the photograph into the competition. Photos must be original, have not been previously published and be relevant to Connemara. It is open to all ages and copies of photos should be kept as they will not be returned. Entries may be dropped to the Photo Competi-
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July 2010
tion Box next to the express till at Super Valu Clifden, posted to Connemara View, Clifden, Co. Galway or e-mailed to news@connemaraview.com (approx 1MB in size) by Wednesday July 28th.
Connemara View Newspaper