Claregalway Hotel Aiming for the Stars Paul Gill is owner and General Manager of the Claregalway Hotel, a very well-known local Hotel and one that delivers an unequivocal 4-star experience yet is officially a 3-star establishment.
Nuacht Chláir The free community-curated newsletter for Claregalway January/February 2015 | Vol.19 iss.5
news
page 9
Take Part in Claregalway’s St Patricks Day Celebrations! events
page 4
The Memory of Water by Compántas Lir features
pages 22–27
Bumper Report from Coláiste Bhaile Chláir sport
page 28
Claregalway Ladies GAA Club February 2015 Notes For more local news see www.Claregalway.info
Nora and Paul Gill, owners of the Claregalway Hotel in the village
and acquired a Diploma In Practice and Front Office Management. She trained under Eamon Doyle and Kitty Carr in the Park House Hotel for over a decade. As a consequence, Nora plays an extremely important role in the burgeoning success story that is the Claregalway Hotel. Nora and Paul also have two children—Rion (5) and Aoibheann (3). Paul was deeply involved with the Claregalway Hotel project since its conception in 2002, and helped in its evolution to date. Following the economic crash, the property was placed in receivership in 2012. Paul and Nora bought it out of receivership and have steadily developed it since. Paul believes in a slow and steady approach to future development. Whilst the Hotel delivers a 4-star experience, it is their ambition to achieve an official 4-star rating in the not too distant future. In addition, small but important upgrades and improvements are planned. As evidence of their continuing success, the last AA assessment saw them achieve a score of 87% (second highest in Ireland). In 2009–10, the Hotel was awarded Best Hotel of the Year for their grade and in 2012–13 TripAdvisor awarded them Top 20 Best Value Hotel in Ireland. Despite national recognition, Paul and Nora are firm believers in both drawing from and delivering to the local community, with 90% of the team from the local catchment area of Claregalway, Turloughmore, Abbeyknockmoy, Corofin and Tuam.
Paul, somewhat surprisingly, was born in Kenya. He was raised in the Aran Islands and completed his secondary education in Coláiste Mhuire in Galway. He comes from a family with a lot of experience in the hospitality business, having run a guest house for decades.
F
ollowing his schooling, Paul studied in GMIT’s School of Hotel and Catering Management, in Shannon College of Hotel Management and in a Management Development Program with Cornell University in upstate New York. In recent times, Paul successfully completed his studies for a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) in NUI Galway. Quite an achievement for an extremely busy professional and a family man! Nora (Paul’s better half) carried out her initial training with CERT in Front Office and Hospitality skills
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An nuachtán pobail le haghaidh Baile Chláir, Co. na Gaillimhe
You can submit stories & photos by posting to Nuacht Chláir, ‘Currach Ruadh,’ Creig Buí, Baile Chláir, Co. na Gaillimhe.
Editorial
by emailing news@Claregalway.info
by Josette Farrell
by phoning Josette on 086 391 3852 / 091 798 430 via our website www.Claregalway.info or via our Facebook page www.facebook.com/Claregalway.info
We are always on the lookout for new local contributors. If you would like to share some local news, photos, events or stories, just get in touch. We are constantly updating our website Claregalway.info, where you can keep up to date with local news, sports, features, notices and events, read up on some the history of Claregalway, or check out our ever-expanding local business directory. If you have any suggestions for features you would like to see on the site, let us know. Finally, don’t forget to like our popular Facebook page at facebook.com/Claregalway.info where we share local news, links and photos. Nuacht Chláir is an open access publication and we try to include everything that’s submitted, subject to the law of the land, and editorial judgement. This judgement is exercised by the volunteer production team in order to preserve balance in the newsletter. We hold no political bias. The views & opinions expressed in the articles are those of the individual contributors and are not necessarily those of the production team.
www.Claregalway.info
Welcome to the combined January/February issue of Nuacht Chláir, and our first newsletter of 2015. This newsletter is published by Claregalway.info with the support of local sponsors. We hope you embraced another new year and are enjoying the lengthening evenings. This month’s issue brings you articles from our regular contributors Edward Coppinger (page 13), Móna Wise (page 8), GIY Ireland (pages 10–11), Bridge and Crosswords with Brian, Claregalway Pharmacy (page 21), Coláiste Bhaile Chláir (pages 22–27) and sports updates. The article on Sonny (page 20) is very uplifting for those in their senior years and should give great encouragement to those who find the computer world challenging. Local success is always to be savoured and Paul and Nora Gill have surpassed themselves in the hospitality world in their success with Claregalway Hotel. Well done to both of you and continued success in the future. Excitement is building in Claregalway with the prosect of the first St Patricks’s Day Festival coming on stream. This is to be held in the Claregalway Castle grounds, which are a superb venue and one of which the community if very proud. Thanks to the vision of Dr Eamonn O’Donoghue. Claregalway is well overdue a St Patricks Day festival, and it is great to see the community come together to organise one this year. It should be a great day! We welcome local photographer Paul Fennell on our team and his photography is well renowned in the area. We look forward to lots more photos in coming issues! Check out Paul’s Facebook page at PaulFennellPhoto. Our latest Cúinne Gaelach on page 15—a feature by Tom Monahan—has some more seanfhocla to learn this month, and our new feature on page 12 has some advice from a local tarot reader, who checks the cards and offers help. There are lot of classes to participate in locally, namely Art (in Cruthú Art Studio in Cois Chláir), Yoga (Upstairs at Hughes SuperValu), Line Dancing (in the SMA House) and more! Check our website Claregalway.info and don’t forget to like our Facebook page facebook.com/Claregalway.info for news, photos and updates. As always, your feedback and opinions are greatly accepted. We are half way through our nineteenth volume and you can check out our archives online all the way back to issue one in August 1996! We now have more than 5,000 likes on our Facebook page Claregalway.info so if you haven’t already, like our page to keep up to date with local news, events and photos. Until next time, Josette
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Compántas Lir Present The Memory of Water
C
arnmore/Claregalway group, Compántas Lir grace the stage in Taibhdhearc na Gaillimhe this month with its production of Shelagh Stephenson’s award-winning comedy, The Memory of Water. Galway audiences will have two opportunities to see this production, Sunday February 22nd and again in March from 25th–27th. The play focuses on three sisters who gather in their family home on the eve of their mother’s funeral. Brought together for such a sad occasion, the sisters nonetheless quickly begin to argue over recollections of times gone by. Over the course of two days, as bottles of whiskey are emptied, past conflicts, jealousies and family secrets are revealed and we learn how the incidents recalled have shaped who the sisters are today. Compántas Lir will thread the boards again this season on the Amateur Drama Circuit, performing in six festivals: Rush Drama Festival 24th of February, Claremorris Drama Festival 9th of March, Claregalway Drama Festival 12th of March, Strabane Drama Festival 13th of March, Glenamaddy Drama Festival 19th of March and Cavan Drama Festival 22nd of March. Formed in 1983, Compántas Lir has grown from strength to strength thanks to a strong pool of actors and a skilled, dedicated crew. As 2014 came to a close, the group celebrated their All-Ireland victory, having won the One-Act Finals in Ballyshannon with Nine by Jane Shepherd. The groups continues to grow and each year welcomes new members who contribute to their success both onstage and backstage. The Memory of Water is directed by Dermot Hession, who is no stranger to the director’s chair, with previous successes including The Donoghue Sisters and Cecily. He has also directed, on numerous occasions, for the Autumn Theatre which takes place every October in Carnmore. The cast includes some familiar faces: Stella Fleming as Teresa, Fionnuala Glynn as Mary, Ruth O’Driscoll as Catherine, Breda Hannon as Vi, Mike McNamara as Mike and James Harris as Frank.
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Well done to ACT for Meningitis who were winners of the Social Enterprise Award at the SCCUL Enterprise Awards in Galway on the 29th of January! Local girl Sarah Lynch (on the right) is actively involved with ACT for Meningitis.
Pictured above are local men Joe Mullarkey and Paddy Glennon with garden chairs that Paddy built. Paddy can make fabulous, purpose-built garden furniture to order (all sizes). Contact 086 389 7316.
Dublin Cup winners! Well done to local man Mark Loughlin (pictured third from left). You have brought your talent from Claregalway to Dublin as a brilliant Badminton player!
An nuachtán pobail le haghaidh Baile Chláir, Co. na Gaillimhe
Ten Years Ago in Claregalway This is a snippet of local ‘news’ (now history), printed in the Nuacht Chláir ten years ago.
Claregalway Awarded Public Artwork Originally published in the January/February 2005 Nuacht Chláir
U
nder the percent for art scheme, through the water services section of Galway County Council, Claregalway has been awarded an artwork for the town. The Claregalway Amenity group have been involved in the commission and sat on the adjudication panel for the selection of the Artwork in June 2004. The piece selected was called Arch and the Artist is Robert McColgan. Robert is one of Ireland’s leading Artists and is a lecturer of sculpture in DIT. Robert has been commissioned to carry out the artwork and many of his artworks can be seen throughout the County including Tur in Belmullet, Co Mayo, Millennium Cone in Bray Co Wicklow, Beehives commission in Dublin, Doon Commission in Co Laois.
two parts of the site. The density and disposition of the clusters are arranged to optically join across the void. This adds interest to the work, making it memorable as an icon and a symbol for Claregalway. Robert will be doing workshops in the School and will be meeting local children to discuss the artwork and what it is all about. If anyone would like to attend the artist talk please contact the Amenity Group. Details of his visit will be published in our next edition and in the parish newsletter. In the meantime, a model of the Artwork is on display in the local school if anyone would like to view it. It is not an exact replica of the artwork but it will give an idea of how the piece will eventually look. Galway County Council would like to take this opportunity to thank the local Amenity Group who have been very supportive and enthusiastic about this project. We would also like to thank the School and our Local Rep, who have supported the project. Amenity Group: Josette Farrell, Sean Harte, Larry King, Celia Lennon, Seamus O’Connell, Rose Kavanagh, Josie Concannon.
The need to greet people, be they driving or walking, as they move along the road both ways, is the core dynamic interaction and interest. Arch, a welcome arch in satin and mirror polish steel was Robert’s response to this very open site, as a foil to the existing stonework arches, to mark the entrance to the town, and to join together the www.Claregalway.info
Read news from 1996 onwards at Claregalway.info/ archives or check out the Parish History at Claregalway.info/ history Pictured above is ‘Arch’ today. Claregalway.info/photos
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Local Notices The Claregalway & District Day Care Centre is now open five days Monday–Friday from 9.30am–4pm. For more information please drop in, contact 091 739 385, 086 445 8989, or visit claregalwaydaycarecentre.ie. Claregalway Parent & Baby/Toddler Group meet every Wednesday from 10am–12 noon at Claregalway Community Centre. All welcome. Contact Yvonne 087 943 7410. Walking Club meets every Sunday at the Arches Hotel at 10:30am and on Wednesdays meet at Claregalway Church at 7.30pm. All are welcome. For info contact Edel—085 102 0611. Legion of Mary meeting every Monday from 7.15–8.15pm in Cairdeas. New members welcome. Kids Singing Class for ages 7–10 started back on January 19th in Lackagh! Build confidence, learn new songs and improve breathing. One-to-one lessons and exam prep available. Fully qualified teacher. For more information contact Siobhán on 0878527760.
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Adult Music Classes, subject to demand, are being offered at Lackagh Village Centre on Button Accordion, Tin Whistle, Keyboard, Bodhrán & Céilí Drums. For further info call Padraig on 086 3166 972. French for all! Qualified teacher and native speaker Aline O’Connell is giving afterschool classes in Cregmore NS, Claregalway NS, Claregalway Educate Together NS. Private grinds also available, and preparation for Junior and Leaving Cert. Classes tailored for all needs, good rates and great results! For more information, contact Aline 087 743 88 10. Claregalway/Carnmore Active Retirement meeting every Friday at 10.30am in Cairdeas. New members are always welcome. Claregalway/Carnmore Senior Citizens Cards and bingo held every Monday night at 8pm in Cairdeas Parish Meeting Room. You can share local notices online at www.Claregalway.info
An nuachtán pobail le haghaidh Baile Chláir, Co. na Gaillimhe
Galway Airport Opens for Corporate Flights
by Lorraine O’Hanlon, Galway Independent
G
alway Airport has re-opened to corporate flights. The first corporate jet under the facility’s new licence arrived on January 13th 2015, from Stuttgart in Germany. The executive jet, a Citation, had two crew and seven passengers on board who intend to be in Galway for a short stay and visit Connemara. The airport has obtained a new aviation licence and a fuel licence recently from the Irish Aviation Authority. The Irish Air Corps are carrying out an audit of the facility this week and the Coastguard search and rescue helicopter operations staff will also be visiting the facility to carry out their own audit. The airport is being operated under licence from Galway County Council and Galway City Council until May 2015 by Carnmore Aviation Ltd. a company owned by the Conneely Group in Ballinasloe. The group also own Weston Airport, Dublin and staff will be shared between the airports. “It is only a small step buy great to have commercial aviation back at Galway Airport,” said the Conneely Group. Galway City and County Councils have selected consultants Future Analytics Ltd to undertake a feasibility study of the airport, with a brief to look at the future use of the airport to maximise the economic development of Galway and the region.
Pictured are Musicians Tommy O’Flaherty and Francis Fahy entertaining the large crowd at the Food & Wine Tasting evening in The Arches Hotel on January 30th. For more photos check out our Facebook page.
Sisters Anne, Geraldine and Celeste visiting Never Too Old Charity Shop in Cois Chláir, Claregalway recently. All proceeds from the Charity Shop go towards Claregalway & District Day Care Centre.
The AGM of 9 Arch Claregalway Musical Society, is being held in the Arches Hotel on Wednesday 18th of February at 8pm. All members are invited and if you have a friend interested in joining us either on stage or behind the scenes please bring them with you. Looking forward to seeing you there. For any enquiries ring Annette on 091 797 238.
www.Claregalway.info
Corribboxing Club’s Skippathon organised for ChildLine just before Christmas raised €570! Students in Coláiste Bhaile Chláir played a huge role in raising this money, well done guys. 7
Where Oh Where Did January Go? One minute we were in the throes of Christmas festivities and New Year fun and then wham! February 1st stole in right under our noses and with it brought the first glimpse of Spring. This past weekend, while turbulent weather rolled around the country, Galway caught a break and had a few days of sharp bright baby blue skies.
Móna Wise For more of Móna’s stories visit her website at WiseWords.ie or facebook.com/WiseWordsMona
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t was so much easier to bolt out the door (still with a raincoat) to catch a few rays of sun. This time of year, we spend a lot of time talking about the vegetable garden. We have a few seeds planted indoors and they are sitting near the radiators in a spare bedroom. Our outdoor veggies are thriving. Leeks and Cabbage and sprouting Broccoli to beat the band—quite telling of the mild winter we have just sent packing. This year, we are planning on adding a few more chickens to the flock. We have been farming Muscovy ducks for the last three years and have a great system in place when it comes time to finishing the birds and getting them ready for the freezer or the table. Now it is time to work on adding a bit more variety to the flock. We already have a few gorgeous Le Bresse chickens right now, and they are fabulous laying birds as well as meat birds. We also have a few Australorps and plan on going to a few poultry fairs over the coming month to see if anything catches our interest. And we also have had great success in raising several Turkeys for Thanksgiving and Christmas.
The birds I’m most excited about this Spring is our Goose Pippin and his new mate Goosey Lucy. We found her over the holidays at a poultry fair in Athenry. This past winter was the first time the kids (all four of them) got involved in the killing, plucking, cleaning and processing of the birds. We were very proud of them and hope it is a skill they will hold on to for life, because it is becoming more and more important for all of us to remember where our food is coming from.
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While we have never been all that big on making new year’s resolutions, we have already made a huge effort to rid the house of processed foods. I know this sounds like an impossible task, but even just cutting out the crappy sweets for the kids and giving them homemade sweet treats instead has made the kids quite happy. I’ll leave you this time around with only one thing to mull over until next month. Just ask yourself, if there was one thing you could change about the food you are eating every day what would that be? Want it to be fresher, local, cheaper, tastier? If you find yourself wanting to make a few changes, then start small. Plant a few seeds, and take a class on how to make a few basic sauces or sign up for a box scheme from one of our local vegetable growers. Móna Wise The community-curated newsletter for Claregalway, Co. Galway
Invitation to Participate in Claregalway’s First St Patrick’s Day Festival We are happy to inform you that members of Claregalway community have planned the first St Patrick’s Day Festival of Claregalway on the 17th March 2015. The event will include performances of music, dance, exhibitions from local sports clubs, children’s entertainment to include face painting, arts & crafts and games, a DJ and a display from local people of their individual business. This is an opportunity for the people to show the culture, tradition and talent of Claregalway and celebrate St Patrick’s Day in the village. We would like to invite you to attend the parade and support this initiative taken by the Claregalway community. Your presence will be an encouragement to the participants and the people of Claregalway.
Tuesday March 17th 2015 from 12–2pm in the grounds of Claregalway Castle
Please do not hesitate to contact us at StPatricksClaregalway@gmail.com for any more information or enquiries regarding the event. We look forward to your participation in the festival. See you there!
www.Claregalway.info
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Grow It Yourself February 2015 2015 is the UN FAO’s Year of Soil. The year-long project aims to raise awareness in society about the ‘profound importance’ of soil for human life and promote the sustainable management of soil.
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ur soils work hard. But we will work them even harder in the decades to come—population growth will require a 60% increase in food production, but instead of working to conserve and protect this precious resource, we’re literally treating it like dirt. The world’s soil is under immense pressure—it takes 1,000 years to form a centimeter of soil, but we’re losing it permanently (and at dizzying pace) to relentless urbanization to accommodate the expanding population. An area of soil the size of Costa Rica is lost every year and here in Europe, 11 hectares of life-giving soil are sealed under expanding cities every hour. Globally, ⅓ of our remaining soil is degraded from erosion, compaction, nutrient depletion and pollution.
learned about food growing in the last ten years, a deeper understanding of the soil has been perhaps the most important (and certainly the most satisfying). I am starting to understand that food growing is not about growing plants at all, it’s about growing soil. If you get the soil right, the plants really look after themselves. Of course that means many mucky, sweaty hours spent turning compost heaps, lugging barrows of farmyard manure or collecting seaweed, but that’s OK too—you don’t need gym membership when you’re a GIYer. Gradually my soil here at home has come to life, no longer the heavy potters clay of when we arrived here first, but friable and teeming with life. In a previous article I called myself a nutrient shepherd and it’s a phrase I am very fond of—for that indeed is my job here— shepherding nutrients around the place from the compost heap to the soil to the plants, to the kitchen table and back to the compost heap again. If you need a new year’s resolution for 2015, make yours to love soil. Pick up big handfuls of it in your hands. Smell it. Stand in it in your barefeet. Care for it. Nurture it. It is literally where all life begins.
Given the role it plays in feeding us (95% of all our food comes from it), our determined destruction of the soil globally represents a “specieslevel act of suicide.” As GIYers we play an important part in the management of this critical resource, not only by our gentle stewardship of the soil in our own gardens, but also by developing a deeper understanding of how soil works (and sharing that knowledge with others). Of all the things I have
Tip of the Month Carrots don’t transplant well and any disturbance to the seedlings when you’re transplanting can cause forked roots. So, it’s always better to sow carrot seeds direct in the soil. 10
The community-curated newsletter for Claregalway, Co. Galway
It’s Not All Black & White by Fiona Place Black leather suites, American fridges Black and white wedding photo Wooden floors, all bedrooms ensuite Barbecue and trampoline in the garden Patio decking, drinks on the veranda
To Do in the Garden this Month Turn over the soil only if the weather is dry—if the soil sticks to your boots it’s too early for digging! Keep off the soil to prevent soil compaction—use timber planks to stand on for access. If you have not already done so order/ buy your seeds, spuds and onion sets. Chit or sprout seed potatoes—put them in a container (e.g. used egg carton or empty seed tray) and leave them in a bright warm place. Check the pH of your soil—you can buy a soil pH testing kit in any garden centre. Lime your soil now if required (to reduce acidity in very acid soils), particularly important in your brassica bed.
Sow Finally, we can sow some seeds! On a sunny windowsill indoors, in a heated greenhouse or on a heating mat: sow celery, globe artichokes, celeriac, leeks, onions, lettuce, tomatoes, peas, aubergines, peppers/chilli-peppers. In polytunnel or greenhouse: beetroot, Brussels sprouts, summer and autumn cabbage, carrots, leeks, lettuce, radish. Outside: Weather permitting you can try planting out broadbeans, spinach, kohlrabi, onion & shallot sets, parsnip, Jerusalem artichokes and early peas. Harvest Winter cabbage and cauliflowers, spinach, kale and leeks.
This article was written by Michael Kelly, who is a freelance journalist, author and founder of GIY. © GIY Ireland 2015—all rights reserved. www.Claregalway.info
2 single beds from the social 1 small fridge, 1 oven no wooden floors, no patio A garden with a wire to separate the neighbours Greyhounds tied up over the back wall Drug dealer next door High powered job, long hours 80,000 a year salary Live in nanny New car with all the features 2 holidays every year Dom Perignon in the fridge Louis Copeland in the wardrobe Cocaine in the pocket Part-time cleaner, part-time student Full time parent A 97 Astra with wind up windows A picnic in coole park once a month Cheese and milk in the fridge Primark in the wardrobe Shopping voucher in the pocket Recession, cost cuts, loss of job Graduation, qualification House repossession, New job, new home Cocaine addiction New car Rock bottom New start Suicide
Fiona Place is based in Galway. She has been writing poetry for a number of years and finds it very therapeutic. Her ideas come from her own experiences.
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Local Tarot Readings If you have any enquiries/problems you’d like discussed, please write to Tarotman c/o Claregalway.info. Please give as much detail of your situation for a fuller reading. If you wish to shield your identity just sign your letter Patricia R Aries or something like that. Replies can be answered within five days and I also do home readings for €20. For more information phone 087 267 8004.
Art & Craft Workshop Space Available in Claregalway
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I’m currently working for a great organisation. They treat their staff very well and I’m happy. However, I’m still very young and I don’t want to settle down just yet, I want to travel, see the world and experience different cultures. I know how fortunate I am to have this job and can’t decide whether to go and have greater life experiences or to stay in this position. I also don’t know if I want to do this job forever but I don’t want to regret leaving this company in the future either. Jenny
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If you have a good work ethic and are well thought of in your job this should go some way towards getting a job there again should you decide to go travelling. From the cards I can see how torn you are to leave this good position behind. I do feel that you will break for the border and go for it. If you don’t go you won’t know and that is the crux of it. I hope this clarifies things for you and gives you some focus on the decisions you have to make.
Q
This year I’ve made a huge decision in my life. I’ve packed up everything and moved to Australia but I keep looking back and wondering what impact it will have on my future. When I moved I left my long term boyfriend behind. This was mostly down to the fact that we wanted different things. He wanted to settle down and cement his career while I wanted to see the world. Now I’m constantly wondering if I’ll regret my decision in the future as I’m already doubting myself. Helen
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Cruthú Art Studio’s beautiful space in the heart of Claregalway is available to rent for Art and Craft workshops. It is custom built with craft and Art classes in mind and has a kitchen area for the necessary tea and coffee. We are inviting local artisans who may like a space to teach their craft to pop in and see the space available. We would especially like to see some patchwork, jewellery making, card making, basket weaving or photography. In fact the studio is ideal for all kinds of crafts. Call us on 087 6866740 for information.
Cregmore Area Residents are doing a cleanup on Saturday 21st of March, meeting at Cregmore school at 11am. All are encouraged to come along and help out.
Getting to travel and be in Australia was part of your dream so make the most of it. Doubt and regret only eat away at the soul. What we leave behind should be left behind. From the cards I see a strong love bond between you and your boyfriend back home in Ireland. Enjoy the blue skies of Oz while you can. You would not have been happy had you stayed on in Ireland. Cards show that you may not be happy in your work but it may be down to your own mind set and your current doubts. I feel you will make your own decision in your own time about what to do. You have a good man waiting for you whenever you decide. 12 The community-curated newsletter for Claregalway, Co. Galway
You can share local news, events, photos and stories online at Claregalway.info
The Airdrop Supply by Edward Coppinger It’s time to stand-to betwixt night and day As the god of the east sends darkness away, In grey mists of dawn amongst the bamboo, An alien wild world that few of us knew. A malaria tablet and a couple of salt pills, Washed down with rum the cure of all ills, Each man peering at a wilderness of green, In a Unit with just two aged over nineteen. Oh beautiful that jungle for us paradise, There was pure magic in its’ amazing sunrise, At battle alert listening in strict silence To Gods’ creatures celebrate their environment. Was it like this on Creations first day Before the human race lost the plot and the way, And innocent world pure yet untamed, Though soldiers we were, some felt ashamed. A jungle is neutral it doesn’t take sides, There are no rules of on or offsides, This Garden of Eden with danger was fraught, The worlds’ worst place for a war to be fought The tiger is an animal that all men fear, Scared not of mankind’s bullet or spear, What he thought of our antics we couldn’t tell, Sensed he was nearby his pungent smell. We clear the area for the airdrop supply Rations and stores will float from the sky, And fondly talk of manna from heaven From the benevolent belly of the C47. Our harmony with nature won’t last long, The Dakota’s engines silences bird song, When the parachutes plop, tumbling to earth, All jungle creatures run scared and berserk. Thinking it was the end of their world, Impossible to tell them no need to worry, The tiger too dashed past in the race, And all remembered the hate on his face. Some used to ask “what did Santa Claus send”, Opening boxes, packs and cartons of tins, With sarcasm say “surprise surprise corn beef”— Knowing full well it was the best food to eat. In a couple of hours we’ll patrol elsewhere, And no one could tell we’d ever been there, The jungle hides all its’often been said And sometimes, sadly—also the dead.
Claregalway Church Sacrament Times Daily Mass Sunday 9 & 11am Thursday 7:30pm Monday 9:30am Friday 9:30am Tuesday 9:30am Saturday 9:30am Wednesday 9:30am Vigil (Saturday) 7.30pm Sacrament of Baptism Baptismal preparation training night takes place on the second Tuesday of the month at 7.30pm in Cairdeas. Baptisms are celebrated on the first Sunday of the month at noon and also the third Saturday of the month at 4pm. Booking forms are available from the Parish Office. Sacrament of Marriage Please contact Parish Office for a booking form.
Tune in to 106.4FM to hear Mass in Claregalway Church live every day. St James Choir practice at 8.15pm every Tuesday in Cairdeas Meeting Room, beside the Church. New members are most welcome. ClaregalwayParish@eircom.net www.AssumptionAndSaintJamesParish.com Radio Mass FM106.4 Facebook ClaregalwayParish The Parish Office, operated by Teresa Payne, Secretary, is located in Claregalway village beside the Church. Contact 091 798 741 / ClaregalwayParish@eircom.net We welcome with great joy Georgia Forde, Abbie Leonard, Caoimhe Gallagher, Cathal Geraghty, Katie Flaherty, Charlotte Donlon, Adam Quinn-Noone, Erin Boner into our Christian community. Congratulatons to their parents and Godparents.
R.I.P. Patricia Brennan, Summerfield R.I.P. Pat Tierney, School Road
Salt tablets were for serious sweat loss. Taken daily with Rum (issued only on jungle ops) prevented some from spitting them out! www.Claregalway.info
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Corrib School of Irish Dancing 2014 Roundup Here are some photos courtesy of Corrib School of Irish Dancing who had a great year of winning performances throughout 2014! Classes have resumed for 2015, where you can learn Irish Dancing in a fun and nurturing environment. Beginners and newcomers are always welcome. For further information or details about other classes in the area, please see CorribSchool.com or contact Aoife Dempsey TCRG on 087 695 0457. FĂŠile Rince LuimnĂ 2014
SMA Day Claregalway 2014 Senior Citizens Christmas Party 2014
For more information visit www.CorribSchool.com or like their page on Facebook: CorribSchoolOfIrishDancing
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The community-curated newsletter for Claregalway, Co. Galway
Proverbs New Photographer for Nuacht Chláir We’re delighted to announce a new collaboration with local professional photographer Paul Fennell who is to be the official photographer for Nuacht Chláir.
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aul is an experienced photographer who has been regularly published locally (Connacht Tribune, Galway Advertiser, Tuam Herald), of course by ourselves and also nationally. Paul is a people photographer who works from his Studio in Claregalway Village (located above Hughes SuperValu) and specialises in families, children and babies—pets also welcome! The studio location is hugely convenient with lift access and free parking. To ready yourself for your photo-shoot, dare we say, some people may wish to sign up with Mary at Slimming World, or you could avail of yoga classes pre- or post-shoot to aid your relaxation. Slimming World and Yoga Classes are also located upstairs at Hughes SuperValu. Furthermore you could combine your photoshoot with a leisurely lunch in Treat Café in the Courtyard or even just with a bit of shopping from Hughes SuperValu with its extensive product range. We are truly blessed here in Claregalway to have such a range of services on our doorstep, both in Claregalway Shopping Centre and in the wider community. We hope this new relationship between Nuacht Chláir and Paul Fennell Photo will enhance our local news service and we again put the call out to local individuals, groups and businesses—if you have local stories to share or promote be sure to let us know.
Bainigí taitneamh as 11–20. Cuirfímid fáilte roimh bhur gcuid tuairimí. Feedback welcome! Seo thíos roinnt dena sean-fhocla 11–20: 11 Níl luibh ná leigheas in aghaidh an bháis There’s no herb nor cure against death (The inevitability of death) 12 Muna mbíonn agat ach pocaide gabhar bí i lár an aonaigh leis If you only have a puck goat be in the middle of the fair with him (Don’t undersell your stock) 13 Is fearr cara sa gcúirt ná bonn sa sparán A friend in court is better than a coin in the purse 14 ’Sé éan na maidne a fhánn an phéisteog The early bird catches the early worm 15 Ni lúide an trócaire í a roinnt Mercy is not diminished by its being shared around 16 Is minic a déantar snaidhm leis an teanga nach féidir a scaoileadh leis na fiacla The tongue can often make a knot which cannot be loosened by the teeth (Can the spoken word be ‘unspoken’?) 17 Is minic gur bhris béal duine a shrón A broken nose acquired due to something said 18 Is fearr súil le muir ná súil le huaigh Emigrants can be expected to return but from the grate there is no return (Era when travel had not developed as we know it) 19 Ní thagann ciall roimh aois Sense does not come before age 20 Ní féidir ceann críonna a chur ar ghuailne óga You cannot put a wise head on young shoulders
by Tom Monahan
www.Claregalway.info
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Cregmore NS Spring Fashion Extravaganza The Parent’s Association of Scoil Padraig Naofa Cregmore have just unveiled exciting details of its Spring/Summer Fashion Show, which will be held in the Clayton Hotel on 12th of March at 8pm. This glittering evening of beauty and fashion is being held to fund new IT equipment for the school, particularly new Microsoft Surface Pads which are becoming more and more essential in both primary and second level education. The event is also proudly supporting two very worthy local charities: Hand in Hand, a children’s cancer charity based in Oranmore and Turloughmore Community First Responders. Hand in Hand is a non-profit organisation that provides families with much needed practical support and is in the processes of expanding nationwide, such is the demand for their services. While Turloughmore First Responders’s mission is to save lives by providing as many highly trained volunteers within the Turloughmore area as a first line response team working in colloboration with the National Ambulance Service. The show will feature the latest Spring/ Summer trends from some of Galway City and County’s top boutiques: Anthony Ryans, Boutique One, Concepts, Carraig Donn, Colette Latchford, Fashion Fusion, Harper, Kilkenny Shop, Love It, Standuns of Spiddal, Optique Opticians and Crevation Design Headwear. Hair & Makeup will be courtesy of Bellissimo Hair Studio Galway. There’ll also be an array of stands and exhibitors on the night, live entertainment upon arrival and a deluxe raffle with some stunning prizes such as a 32" flat screen TV, Prada Sunglasses, Hotel Breaks, afternoon tea in Ashford Castle and dinner and drinks for four in Dáil Éireann to name but a few. Tickets are priced at €20 each, so why get some group of friends together and make a night of it. Please contact Alison on 086 859 4635 or Majella on 087 677 4401 for tickets.
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Claregalway Community Centre AGM is on Thursday February 19th at 8pm in the Centre. We invite all residents in the area to attend and ask that they lend their support in the running of the Centre. It is a wonderful amenity for the community and is used by large numbers of adults and children through the year. Come along and discuss how you would like to see the Centre develop for the future. All are welcome and any assistance is greatly appreciated.
An nuachtán pobail le haghaidh Baile Chláir, Co. na Gaillimhe
Thought for the Month
Lend a Helping Hand
When we allow ourselves to understand the impact our actions have on ourselves, we realise the necessity to take loving action. We each have the power to correct conditions within as well as to affect the world we live in. There are so many ways to apply love in our everyday lives. by Ronan Scully
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et, if we do not take care of ourselves and one another, it is virtually impossible to feel and share love with the world around us. As an act of self-love, we can begin to educate ourselves and learn to take care of our physical bodies as well as keep our thoughts and feelings positive and loving. Nurturing ourselves also teaches us how to nurture life around us and lend each other a helping hand. Practice constant acts of kindness and you bring kindness upon yourself. Forgiveness is the easiest and most powerful act of kindness you can make. It promotes unity and harmony. Our lives are filled with opportunities to experience love, tolerance, peace and joy. When we, as individuals, realise our potential to love unconditionally, we transform ourselves and one another and the world we live in at the same time. The choice is ours to create a world of happiness, love and goodwill. Every moment of every day is a new beginning. The meaning held in these words opens us to a new way of living and experiencing life. Start each day, each week and each year as a new journey of self-discovery. Let go of yesterday and tomorrow and embrace the power of now. Remind yourself daily of the newness of life in the moment and learn to lend each other a helping hand. An old Irish fable might help to explain what I mean.
Trip to Heaven & Hell Paddy died and passed onto the next life. When he appeared before God, he was allowed to enter Heaven. He thanked God, but before he left for Heaven, he made one request. “May I visit Hell to see what it looks like?” he asked. The request was granted and Paddy stood at the fiery gates of Hell. The sights and the sounds stirred him to his depths. Paddy was puzzled. Each person held a knife and a fork in their hands but everybody was suffering the agonies of starvation. There was plenty of food, so why the starving? Paddy noticed that people were able to pick up the food with their knives and forks, but were unable to get the food into their mouths because the knives and forks were too long. And the one unalterable rule of Hell was that each person must hold the knives and forks at the very end. This was Hell. Each one was centred on his or her own needs, unable to get satisfaction.
Then it was time for Paddy to go to heaven and, when he got there, there was the joy and glory and happiness that he had hear about. But, like Hell there was something in heaven that he had also not heard about. Here he found a strange similarity to the conditions that prevailed in Hell. There was the same pair of unusually long knives and forks.The exact unalterable rule was in effect, that each one must hold the knife and fork at the very end, which again made it impossible for each person to reach their own mouth. But there was one big difference. Each person was feeding their neighbour and each in turn was being fed by their neighbour. This was definitely Heaven. Each person was completely concerned about the needs of others. In this concern for their neighbour, their own needs were completely satisfied.
As your thought for the week, remember beautiful hands are those that weave bright threads of joy in lives that grieve. Beautiful lips are those that speak to comfort the mourner and hearten the weak. Beautiful eyes are those that glow with the light of a spirit pure as snow. Beautiful souls are those that show The Spirit of God wherever they go. You can read more of Ronan’s Thoughts online at Claregalway.info/tag/thoughts
www.Claregalway.info
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Local Notices
Bridge Column
Naíonra Clúidín na mBabaí Enrollments are now being accepted for Naíonra preschool (beside Claregalway community centre) for September 2015. The Naíonra is a preschool through the medium of Irish. Free ECCE places are available for children born between 2nd of February 2011 and 30th of June 2012. Tá fáilte roimh cách. No previous knowledge of Irish is necessary. Phone Lisa at 087 2070558 (Mon–Fri 9.15am–12.15pm)
No Trump Bid North AK Q 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 A3 — You pick up the above hand and see your partner (South) open 1NT (12–14 high card points). What do you do?
Obviously, if partner has both the Ace of clubs and the Ace of hearts, you will have somewhere to deposit your losing Diamond. Since the missing hearts are AKJ2 and since partner must have two of those (she would not open 1NT with anything less than a doubleton in any suit), you need to find out what you can about them. How? The best start is to ask partner how many aces she has, using either Gerber or Blackwood. Gerber: 1NT-P-4C (asking for aces)-P-4H (one ace)-P-P; or 1NT-P-4C-P-4S-P-6H.* Blackwood: 1NT-P-2C (Stayman)**-P-2S4NT-5D (one ace)-5H (sign off) or 1NT-P-2CP-2S-4NT-P-5H (2 aces)-6H* *Note how, without some key card sequence, it is not easy to find the grand slam (7H). Partner cannot possibly have more than 14 HCP, so showing 2 aces, she could have two kings (total 14HCP) which means a King is still missing and it could be wrongly placed.
Claregalway Yoga Upstairs at Hughes SuperValu Morning & Evening Classes Monday Morning 10.30–11.30am All levels welcome
** Cannot say 4NT directly over partner’s 1NT since this is ‘quantitative’, i.e. it says to partner, with maximum (14HCP) go to 6NT, otherwise pass. In most cases, with a combined holding in a suit of at least 11 cards it is extremely tempting to leap to a slam. However, it is always best to get as much extra information as possible before committing yourself. In the above case, if partner is missing both the ace and king of hearts, the slam fails.
Wednesday Evening 7.30–8.30pm Beginners gentle stretch Phone Claregalway Yoga 087 193 8495
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Bridge Club takes place Mondays at 7:30pm and Friday mornings at 10:30am in the Claregalway Hotel. An nuachtán pobail le haghaidh Baile Chláir, Co. na Gaillimhe
Baile Chláir Ramblers (Claregalway Walking Club) meet Wednesday evenings and Sunday mornings each week and all are welcome. Contact Anne 087 248 5559 or Peggy 087 298 1594.
Pilates Classes Tuesday and Saturday mornings in Corrib KickBoxing Club, Claregalway Corporate Park from 11am–12pm. Call Eileen on 0866088137 for more info.
Sports Injury Therapy Swedish Massage; Hot Stone Massage and Reflexology. Anne-Mullarkey-Moran, MNRRI, MGPP, ITEC, Pollagh House, Pollaghrevagh, Claregalway. 091 798 933 / 087 2485559 annemullarkey@eircom.net
www.Claregalway.info
Registration is now taking place for the school year September 2015– June 2016. Government grants are available for Montessori tuition ECCE Scheme. Please telephone to make an arrangement to view the school at a suitable time and date for you on 091 798 160 or 087 943 0822.
Yoga with Gráinne Upstairs at Hughes SuperValu Tuesdays 10am, Thursdays 6.45pm Contact Gráinne on 087 923 4669
Claregalway Study Centre in Coláiste Bhaile Chláir—Supervised study for Junior and Leaving Cert students. Contact Josette on 086 391 3852. 19
Digital Skills Training Grant Scheme Comes to Lackagh IT Minister Alex White met participants of Irish Rural Link’s basic computer course and announced new projects in 2015 to deliver basic internet skills, training to groups including unemployed, farming communities, job seekers, older people, people with mental health problems.
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ackagh IT Centre is one of the centres rolling out this training and people wishing to avail of it should contact Geraldine Delaney, Teacher in IT in Lackagh where training is held in the mornings and evenings to suit everyone. Irish Rural Link’s basic computer training course is aimed at people who have never used a computer before with the objective of being able to send an email and Skype with friends and family after the eight hour course. Sonny O’Brien (80 years old) participated in the computer training course in Lackagh, County Galway provides the following testimonial of how the basic computer training has changed his life. “I trace my original reluctance to participate in training to fear. To think that somebody who graduated from an ink well and nib in Annagh National School many decades ago could be introduced to the world of computers did not appear realistic. Today I also have a fear but it is of what I would have missed out on if I had not availed of this wonderful opportunity. My first reaction was that this could be just a hobby. I gradually saw the horizons broaden and while it has still an element of entertainment it is now an absolute necessity in my day. The activities are too many to mention them all. I will just mention a few. Some months ago our family suffered a double bereavement in the USA. Email was a vital link up in keeping in touch with family in those dark days. The support that it allows us extend to each other 20
Minister for Communications Alex White TD announcing 2015 BenefIT Awards at the Dublin Digital Hub with Sonny O’Brien, Claregalway, a participant in the Internet training, Geraldine Delaney, Teacher in Lackagh IT Centre, and Seamus Boland from Irish Rural Link. in post bereavement is wonderful. Skype is such a wonderful facility. Both of those facilities enhance my quality of life. I am Chairperson of our Community Alert and email is essential here not a hobby. Even though at this stage of my life, my banking and online purchases would not be a huge part of my life, it is a big advantage to have this facility. My bank surprised me with their enthusiasm to get me organised. The message that I took from that was that this is the way life is going. We have the option of getting prepared or of being left behind. As I explore the world of internet I am stunned by the bottomless well of knowledge that is available on every topic that one can think of. I avail of any opportunity that comes my way and encourage others who graduated from the ink well era that they too can have this experience. Finally I wish to say a
million thanks to our class teacher Geraldine Delaney. In addition to her detailed knowledge of her subject Geraldine has the special skill of being able to communicate patiently and effectively and with much encouragement with my age group.” The BenefIT 4 scheme delivers internet training in approximately 600 locations nationwide and Geraldine Delaney the IT Teacher in Lackagh welcomes it to Lackagh and wishes to ask all community groups to contact the Lackagh IT Centre in whatever area in IT training is needed. We all can make our new technology world made easy and also enrich our lives through better access to information, social media and public services. Bookings for the classes can be made through the Lackagh IT Office on 091 737070, email lackaghcomputer@gmail.com or contact Geraldine on 087 815 3762.
The community-curated newsletter for Claregalway, Co. Galway
Keeping a Calcium Rich Diet John Duffy MPSI of Claregalway Pharmacy (091 799 754) has shared this information on calcium rich diets. For more information, call in and speak with any member of staff. by John Duffy MPSI
Calcium is an important nutrient that has many functions in the body, to help our muscles contract and to assist with normal blood clotting. Calcium is more commonly known for its role in maintaining strong teeth and bones.
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t also helps to prevent against conditions such as osteoporosis. Making sure we have enough calcium will help to maintain bone strength and reduce the amount of bone that is lost as we age. It is the most abundant mineral in the body, and because we can’t make it, we need to consume a diet rich in calcium. How much calcium do we need? Adults over the age of 18 need around 700mg of calcium per day. There are other circumstances where more calcium is required. You also need to make sure you are getting enough calcium if you have hypocalcaemia (low calcium levels in the blood) or are taking steroids. One of the side-effects of taking steroid tablets in the long term (for three months or more) is an increased risk of developing osteoporosis. This is known as steroid-induced osteoporosis. What foods contain calcium? The most well-known sources of calcium are milk and dairy products. However, calcium is also found in fish with edible bones, green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds and fruits. Some food manufacturers also enrich food products with calcium by adding it to certain foods—for example, in soya milk, orange juice, cereals and breads.
www.Claregalway.info
Why is Vitamin D important? Vitamin D is needed for the body to absorb calcium effectively. Unlike other vitamins, we do not need to get Vitamin D from food. A main source of Vitamin D is made by our own bodies. It is made in the skin by the action of sunlight. This is a good thing because most foods contain no, or very little, Vitamin D naturally. Foods that contain Vitamin D include oily fish (such as sardines, pilchards, herring, trout, tuna, salmon and mackerel) and fortified foods (this means they have Vitamin D added to them) such as margarine, some cereals, infant formula milk.
need vitamin drops until they are receiving less than 500ml of infant formula a day, as these products are fortified with Vitamin D. Breast-fed infants may need to receive drops containing Vitamin D from one month of age if their mother has not taken Vitamin D supplements throughout pregnancy. • People aged 65 years and over: should take a daily supplement containing 10 micrograms of Vitamin D. • People who are not exposed to much sun: should also take a daily supplement containing 10 micrograms of Vitamin D.
Who is at risk? Some people are at greater risk of Vitamin D deficiency; therefore, a routine Vitamin D supplement is recommended. This includes: • All pregnant and breast-feeding women: should take a daily supplement containing 10 micrograms of Vitamin D. • All infants (babies) and young children aged 6 months to 5 years: should take a daily supplement containing Vitamin D in the form of vitamin drops. However, those infants who are fed infant formula will not
Don’t forget to like Claregalway Pharmacy on Facebook, for regular updates & competitions!
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Coláiste Bhaile Chláir February 2015 News bt Young Scientist January 2015 On Friday the 9th of January a group of 38 second years went to the RDS in Dublin to visit the BT Young Scientist exhibition. Two groups from the year were involved in the competition and we wanted to give them some support! A great day was had by all and hopefully the trip sparked some good ideas for next year’s competition.
Irish Classes for Parents take place on Wednesday evenings at 7.30pm for five weeks from 25th of February–25th of March. For more information email roisin.duggan@cbcg.ie.
Sean Mitchell, Paul McGinley, Conor Finnerty and Daragh Jordan at The Business of Sports Science.
Above are Meg Regan, Marian Harkin MEP and Emily Sheeran at the BT Young Scientist exhibition last month.
Sean Mitchell, Conor Finnerty and Daragh Jordan also spoke about their award-winning project at The Business of Sports Science in BT Young Scientist. The project is called KillTech—a design to reduce controversy in handball. The technology is designed to indicate whether a kill shot hits the wall or floor first. It uses laser beams to detect it.
For more info on the student projects, visit Claregalway.info and search Coláiste Bhaile Chláir Eoghan 22 Furey, Sharon Ní Bheoláin and Ruairí Gallagher.
The community-curated newsletter for Claregalway, Co. Galway
Second Year Boys Defeat Coláiste na Coiribe Pictured below are the second year boys basketball team after their match against Coláiste na Coiribe which they won 22–18 in the Connacht Schools Basketball league.
Back row L–R: Conor McCann, Liam Burke, Dara Kenna, Conor Flaherty, Paul Culkeen, Maciej Mrowka, Jackie Chen. Front row L–R: Darragh Hegarty, Shane Lawless, Thomas McStay, Mark Slevin, Ryan O’Sullivan, Joe Mulqueen.
Handball Coláiste Bhaile Chláir was well represented at the schools A County Handball competition held in Pearse Stadium and St Mary’s College on Tuesday January 27th. A special mention goes to first year Niamh Heffernan who won the girl’s first year A final.
U16 Doubles Andrea Trill and Aoibhinn Fox.
Boys Gaelic Football The first year boys Gaelic football team recorded a big win in the last league game of the A division recently, with a cracking final score of Coláiste Bhaile Chláir 8–7, Rice College Westport 3–7.
Pictured left is Daragh Jordan who competed in Boys U15, and right is Niamh Heffernan winner of first year A final.
There were fine performances from Darragh Berthoz in goal, Fergal Cullina and Diarmuid Kilcommons in defence, midfielders Adam Reilly and Adam Heneghan and Nathan Grainger and Briain Winter in attack. The lively Josh Buckley also made a valuable contribution, and Ian Fitzmaurice made a welcome return from injury along with the industrious Colm Moran. The team have qualified for the Semi-Final of the A championship which will be played in coming weeks. www.Claregalway.info
First year students Niamh Heffernan and Enda Collins who competed in the A competition.
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Athletics The South Connacht Cross Country finals were held at Bushfield Loughrea on Wednesday 28th. Over 1000 students from schools across south Connacht competed at Minor, Junior, Intermediate and Senior levels. Despite the adverse weather conditions Coláiste Bhaile Chláir was represented by 35 Athletes. First year Kristan Flaherty had a great race coming 4th from a field of 164 athletes. Coláiste Bhaile Chláir achieved huge success with the Girls Minor, Boys Junior and Girls Junior teams coming first and collecting gold.
Congratulations to Emer Lenihan, first year in Coláiste Bhaile Chláir, who was selected by the online Engineers and Moderators as Winner from I’m an Engineer Get Me Out of Here! “We asked the engineers and moderators, which student had done the best in each zone, and Emer Lenihan was nominated as student winner for their zone. She will receive a certificate and a €25 iTunes voucher; for being an engaged, thoughtful, fun and overall, great student”.
Girls Minor Winners L–R: Emily Duggan, Meabh Clancy, Mary Duggan, Andrea Trill, Sinéad Donovan, Jane Glynn.
Boys Junior Winners L–R: Daniel Broderick, Patrick Donovan, Darren Costello, Dara Whelan, Paul Culkeen, Brandon Carr, Aaron Brennan, Thomas McStay.
Girls Junior Winners L–R: Gemma Coll, Miriam Greene, Rachael Hughes, Ciara McCarthy, Vitska Mulroy.
Congratulations to Andrea Trill who came first in the Minor Connacht Schools Combined Events—Long Jump, Hurdles, 800m and Shot Putt. 24
The community-curated newsletter for Claregalway, Co. Galway
Microsoft Global Student Ambassador Program Students Leading the Way Students from Coláiste Bhaile Chláir have received recognition for their creativity and expertise in the use of a wide-range of technologies to enhance teaching and learning in school. Microsoft in collaboration with their school has appointed each of these students to the prestigious position of Microsoft Global Student Ambassador. They will have the opportunity to engage with other students from across the globe through online link ups. They will speak at educational conferences and share with educational leaders from around the world their vision for technology in the classroom. Indeed the students will host a group of teachers and leaders from Slovenia in May of this year.
Forensic Science Workshop The first years were involved in a Forensic Science Workshop in the school recently. Each class group got a taste of what it’s like to be a real-life forensic scientist by examining tyre tread patterns, blood spatter, fingerprints, DNA profiles, ballistics, digital evidence and more to try and solve who had committed the crime. Thanks to Alison from Education Interactive who facilitated the workshop.
Vicka, Mary, Kaitlin and Nicola want to finish off Ms Bergin!
Ciara and Rachel examining the victim’s clothes.
Chief Investigator Michael Newell on the case!
For more visit Claregalway.info
www.Claregalway.info
25 Inspector Kearney examining items left at the scene.
Coláiste Bhaile Chláir Advance to Quarter-Finals
the head of the Claregalway netminder Darragh Berthez. Coláiste na Coiribe had been threatening to score with a couple of telling invasions in to the opposition box in the minutes leading up to the goal and it was no more than they deserved. The Claregalway side were rattled and they sprung to life, creating a number of chances at the other end. One such chance fell to Callinan inside the box, but a fantastic last ditch tackle from the defender neutralised his attempted shot on goal. Five minutes later, and the away side got themselves back in the game. Heneghan went on another surging run through the heart of the defence and, again, found himself in a one-on-one situation with the keeper. This time, he made no mistake however, as he deftly took the ball around the net minder only to find himself hauled to the ground for a certain penalty. The heavy fall on the artificial turf seemed to leave him unscathed as he duly stepped up and dispatched the resulting penalty to the left hand corner of the net. Ciarán Keane, who had drifted up from his left back position, had a chance two minutes later, but his well struck volley was gathered comfortably by the Coláiste na Coiribe keeper. It looked like the sides might go in at half time sharing a goal each but Connor Swan had other things in mind. The industrious left sided midfielder was put through, thanks to a defence splitting pass from Callinan, The community-curated newsletter for Claregalway, Co. Galway and he coolly slotted the ball with his left under the
The U14 soccer team of Coláiste Bhaile Chláir returned to winning ways on January 27th as they overcame the challenge of Coláiste na Coiribe to advance to the quarter finals of their competition, at a superb Mervue venue.
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ith a display of excellent team work and attitude, they ran out deserving winners and their inclusion in the knock out stages of the competition was secured. There was a tentative opening to the game with both sides exhibiting some nervous touches early on, but when both teams settled into their rhythm, the standard of football played was very good. With five minutes gone, Josh Buckley played a clever ball through the last line of the defence which sent Adam Heneghan through one-on-one with the keeper. The keeper got down well to save however, and two minutes later, he was on hand again to pull off a brilliant save from a Tommy Callinan left foot piledriver. The Claregalway side seemed to be taking command of the game with Heneghan and Callinan pulling the strings in midfield and Nathan Grainger and Conor Swan using the ball very well also. A couple of sliced clearances in defence in the opening period of the game seemed to suggest some nerves in there and eventually one of these clearances led to the opening goal of the game for the home side. With sixteen minutes played, the ball was half cleared out of the defence to just outside the box and 26 the lobbing return went all the way to the net in over
advancing keeper to grab his side’s second. It was the perfect end to the first half for the away side who had done very well to come back from a goal down to edge their noses in front. The second half definitely belonged to the away side as they began to dominate all over the park. With one minute gone, Josh Buckley showed grit and determination in making his way to the endline before crossing the ball into the box, where Heneghan was on hand to smash an unstoppable shot to the roof of the net. Two minutes later Rory Moran also found his way into the box and engineered a great chance, which he finished to the net with aplomb. His brother Colm was absolutely immense in defence throughout the game, but he particularly flourished in this half. Like a general in the heart of the defence, he commanded the troops and led by example with his speed, agility and great tackling. Aided superbly by Kristan Flaherty alongside him, the pair laid down an impenetrable wall in front of Berthez’s goal in the second half. Any ball that did go over the top was gathered easily by the steady keeper, whose booming kickouts launched a number of attacks also. Adam Kearney and Eoin Gavin were added to the mix, in place of Keane and Grainger respectively, and they both played well when introduced. With ten minutes left on the clock, the away side emptied their bench by bringing in Briain Winter, Michael Newell, Liam McDonagh, Allyn McKenna Patterson, Dillon Keogh and Shane Bermingham and they were all to make telling contributions when they came into the fray. One contribution in particular from Newell was worth the entrance fee alone, when he flicked the ball ingeniously with the outside of his boot to set Winter free for a gallop up the left flank. With a few minutes left on the clock, a long delivery from Winter into the box wasn’t dealt with by the defence and Heneghan was on hand again to finish to the net and complete his excellent hat-trick. The young footballers of Coláiste Bhaile Chláir march on now to the Quarter-Finals of the competition and if their excellent commitment, attitude, work rate and skill continue, they have a good chance of progressing even further. Well done lads! Thanks also to Mr Dolan for helping out with the team today. J.K. Panel: Darragh Berthez, Ciaran Keane, Kristan Flaherty, Colm Moran, Mark Melody, Connor Swan (29mins), Adam Heneghan (25 [Peno], 31, 56mins), Nathan Grainger, Josh Buckley, Rory Moran (33mins), Tommy Callinan. Other Panel Members: Adam Kearney for Ciaran Keane, Eoin Gavin for Nathan Grainger, Liam McDonagh for Kristan Flaherty, Shane Bermingham for Rory Moran, Briain Winter for Connor Swan, Michael Newell for Josh Buckley, Allyn McKenna Patterson for Mark Melody, Dillon Keogh for Tommy Callinan.
www.Claregalway.info
New School Building for Claregalway Planning permission has been granted for a new building for the secondary school in Claregalway.
The Minister of Education has been given approval to build the development to Coláiste Bhaile Chláir at the Corporate Park subject to conditions. The new school in Claregalway will involve a 2-storey building with 17 specialist classrooms, 6 general classrooms, a library/resource room, general purpose hall, kitchen, office and staff area. There will also be 45 car parking spaces outside the school, which will be adjacent to the existing school. Phase One of the development of a new school can proceed provided the developer adheres to ten planning conditions. One conditions stipulates that the recommendations made in a Mobility Management Plan be implemented.Also, a separate planning application must be submitted for an access roadway.
Keep up to date with Coláiste Bhaile Chláir updates by visiting Claregalway. info or ColaisteBhaileChlair.com. We also share news on our Facebook page facebook.com/Claregalway.info.
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Claregalway Ladies GAA February 2015 Notes Well done to Fabienne Cooney and the Galway Senior ladies on their draw with Dublin in the National League last Sunday in Tuam Stadium. Three club members took part in the ladies Level 1 coaching course last Saturday at the New School in Claregalway. The Indoor Fitness training for all takes place on this Friday at the Cregmore School Hall from 9–10pm. All are welcome, for more details call 087 283 5847. U14 indoor training has started any new players welcome. Contact Eugene on 087 956 2632 for details. The U16 Ladies football starts this Saturday all eligible players are asked to be at the Lakeview Pitch at 12:30. New players welcome, for details phone Tony on 087 2677 136. The U12 girls have been invited to a Blitz in Kilmacud Crokes at the end of the month. The Club’s Social takes place on Saturday 28th of February in the Claregalway Hotel where the 2013 winning U16 Team will be presented with their County Medals. Ladies Club registration day takes place on Sunday 1st March at the new Pitches Knockdoemore from 11am to 1pm.
Claregalway GAA Club Notes Congratulations to Daniel Prior and Dylan Buckley who played for the Galway U14 Football Development Squad at the Connacht Centre of Excellence on Saturday August 23rd. The U12s will play their next Division 1A West game against St Michaels on Sunday August 31st at 11am at a St Michaels venue. In the Junior C North Championship Claregalway were beaten 2–13 to 1–5 by Caherlistrane on Saturday August 23rd. In the Senior League Division 2 Claregalway came up short against St Michaels on a scoreline of 1–12 to 0–9.
Pictured are Aiofa Gavin and Rebecca Downs after being presented with a set of First-Aid Kits by John Duffy of Claregalway Pharmacy for their coming year. After training last Friday, the Claregalway Ladies were presented with First-Aid Kits which were sponsored by John Duffy of Claregalway Pharmacy and we would like to take this opportunity to thank John for his part in keeping the Ladies Club in ship-shape.
Cregmore Claregalway Football Club Notes Lillis Cup Quarter Final Galway Bohs 2, Cregmore 2 (Cregmore win 4–1 on penalties) In the Juniors first game since Christmas they came back from 2–0 down to win on penalties and advance to a cup semi final. Henry Kenny got both goals for Cregmore, one of them a thundering header pictured below.
For more, like Claregalway Football Club on Facebook Tony Nugent, Ronnie Kenny, Paul Costello and Bryan O’Connell all scored in the shootout while big Paddy Cullen managed to save one to help see Cregmore through.
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For more, like Cregmore Claregalway Football Club on Facebook The community-curated newsletter for Claregalway, Co. Galway
Contract Awarded for Design of N17 Bus Corridor to the City The contract has been awarded for the design of a bus corridor on the N17 from Parkmore into the city. The tender for the design of a 2.7km inbound corridor was awarded to Atkins Ireland Limited. The corridor will run from the Parkmore Road junction, to the junction of the Tuam Road and Bóthar na dTreabh in the city. A spokesperson for the City Council says the design process is expected to take place until the end of this year. The corridor will form part of a proposed 8km inbound bus corridor from South Claregalway into the city.
The 2015 Mayo Association Galway Annual Dinner Dance will be held on Saturday 21st of February 2015 in the Galway Bay Hotel, Salthill at 7.30pm sharp. As the Mayo Association Galway’s largest event of their social calendar, an enjoyable evening of fine dining, dancing and an appreciation of all things Mayo is guaranteed. This year’s dinner dance will pay special tribute to guest of honour, recently nominated Mayo Person of the Year 2015, Mr James Horan. The association have gained a great reputation in recent years providing a great nights entertainment for excellent value for money. With sell out dinner dance events in 2014 and 2013, tickets are limited and available from any member of the committee, by private mail on Facebook or a limited number are now available for purchase online at MayoAssociationGalway.com. Tickets can be reserved by calling Monica on 087 930 6028, PJ on 087 220 4350 or by emailing tickets@mayoassociationgalway.com. Priced at €50 each, tickets include a three course gourmet meal with wine, spot prizes, live band with music by Charade and dancing into night! The association will also honour the 2015 Meitheal of the Year Winners, Dolmen Clubhouse Ltd.
www.Claregalway.info
100 New Jobs at Tuam’s Old Coca-Cola Plant In a major local jobs boost, Steeltech, Ireland’s leading manufacturer of steel sheds, chalets, home offices, greenhouses and garages, plans to create up to 100 new jobs at the old Coca-Cola plant on Galway Road which they have just purchased. The company, which has branches all over Ireland, plans to expand its business into the UK and mainland Europe and will be moving all its operations from the current plant at Headford Road, Galway to Tuam by April. The owner of Steeltech, Sean Brett, says he is very excited about the potential for the firm to expand at the former Coca-Cola plant which is on a nine-acre site close to where the new Tuam-Gort motorway and the Tuam bypass are being built. Sean will be using all of the existing buildings there and—as making buildings is Steeltech’s business—they will be adding more structures to what is already on the Tuam site.
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Farming & Driving in the West of Ireland There is a free farm safety event which will take place on Tuesday 10th of March (Registration 6.30pm, Talks 7–9pm) in Claregalway Hotel. The theme of the event is Farming & Driving in the West of Ireland. The event will focus on safety on farms and vehicle driving. There will be particular emphasis on agricultural vehicle safety—including on public roads. Other aspects of farm safety will also be covered, in particular farm animals as well as slurry storage and precautions to be taken to reduce risks for farmers, children and visitors. Topics and speakers are as follows:
Tackling the risks arising from Farm Animals and their Slurry John Kennedy, Health & Safety Authority
Driving for work—a risky business Deirdre Sinnott McFeat, Health & Safety Authority
Rescue Services Experiences Paul Duffy, Galway Fire & Rescue
Who should attend? · Farmers and other members of the farming / agricultural community · Health & Safety Professionals · People who drive for work Bookings will be taken by phone or text to Nigel Ashcroft, Tel 086 3844929. The event is being organised by a voluntary committee of Health & Safety Practitioners who are members of the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health.
For more local events, visit Claregalway.info/events
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The community-curated newsletter for Claregalway, Co. Galway
A Special Type of Travel Service Takes Off in Galway! The concept of having your own personal travel agent who gives you the best possible personal service around the clock may be relatively new, but it’s clearly proving a great success with customers in County Galway, which now has a new Travel Counsellor in the area. With the promise that all your holiday plans are in the safest possible hands. ased locally in Belclare, Maeve Doherty has just
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www.Claregalway.info
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Active in Age Oranmore Active in Age Oranmore Thursday Club is held in the Blue Room, Respond, Ard na Mara, Oranmore (Old Convent) from 2–4pm every Thursday and all are welcome. Included in the events are information sessions of interest to older people; talks on health and wellness and social activities, such as card playing, board games, music and singing sessions, art and craft workshops, film club and occasional outings/trips. The aim of Active in Age Oranmore is to provide support for older people and to negotiate with agencies, individuals and community groups to help us provide a social outlet and supportive environment. Active in Age Oranmore is a notfor-profit voluntary group and is registered with Galway County Community & Voluntary Forum. Thursday 19th of February 2015 from 2–4pm We are continuing the very successful sing-a-long sessions with Anne Marie. Music provided by Des. We have percussion instruments if you would like to play along as well as singing.
Other Ongoing Activities Monday Mornings 10.30am–12pm Bay Strollers—Walking Club Meet in Renville Park at cemetery car park. Open to all people of mixed ability (suitable for 55+, wear walking shoes & appropriate rain jacket). Tuesday & Thursday 11am–12pm Aqua Aerobics in the Maldron Hotel Contact Margaret McNulty or Lily Considine. Wednesdays 1.30–2.30pm—Yoga Organised in Ard na Mara. Max group 12–14. Contact Margaret McNulty or Lily Considine. Fridays 11.30am–12.30pm—Resistant Training Resistant training for the older person in the Gym at the Maldron Hotel, age group 55+. Contact Margaret McNulty or Lily Considine.
Committee Contact: Lily Considine 0876184022 Margaret McNulty 0876393363 Kathy Eastwood 0872944662 Soizick Lesaux 0860816402 Rena Casey 0862686712 Maureen White 0863271250 Denise Feeney 0879455722 Mary Leahy 0866088725 Fiona Blaney 0818357901 32
Email: activeinageoranmore@gmail.com The community-curated newsletter for Claregalway, Co. Galway
www.Claregalway.info
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Useful Local Contacts Group Contact name
Contact number
Carnmore National School John Reilly
091 798 718
Compántas Lir Drama Dermot Hession
085 711 4352
Conradh na Gaeilge Anna Glynn
091 798 351
Claregalway & District Day Care Centre
Geraldine Carr
086 227 4139
Claregalway Cemetery Maintenance
Malachy Noone
087 133 3711
Claregalway Cemetery Caretaker
Seamus O’Connell
087 313 7282
Claregalway Educate Together NS Terri Claffey
091 798 356
Claregalway Folk Choir Anne Moylan
087 638 6626
Claregalway National School Carmel Burns
091 798 720
Claregalway Parish Office Teresa Payne
091 798 741
Coláiste Bhaile Chláir Alan Mongey
091 799 001
9 Arch Musical Society Annette Cavanagh
087 219 7772
Our Local Sponsors
Useful Local Websites
Claregalway Basketball Club
www.assumptionandsaintjamesparish.com
Claregalway Dental Surgery Claregalway Hotel Claregalway Medical Centre Claregalway Pharmacy Compántas Lir Drama Group Glynn’s Centra Carnmore Hughes SuperValu Claregalway Noel Grealish td Carnmore Paul Nash Transport The Arches Hotel Claregalway Treat Café Claregalway T Duggan Garage Claregalway This free community-curated newsletter is produced voluntarily. We rely on the generous sponsorship we receive from local businesses to cover printing costs and maintaining our website Claregalway.info. Please show your support for Nuacht Chláir, and the businesses that 34 help make it possible, by shopping local when possible.
www.bawnmorens.ie www.Claregalway.info www.carnmore.net www.carnmoreschool.scoilnet.ie www.claregalwaybasketball.net www.claregalwaygaa.net www.claregalwayeducatetogether.blogspot.com www.claregalwaycastle.com www.colaistebhailechlair.com www.compantaslir.ie www.cregmorens.blog.com www.facebook.com/Claregalway.info
Advertising Rates (per issue) Full Page €100 ½ Page €50 You can share stories by posting them to Nuacht Chláir, Currach Ruadh, Creig Buí, Baile Chláir, Contae na Gaillimhe. by emailing them to news@Claregalway.info by phoning Josette on 086 391 3852 / 091 798 430 or you can message through our Facebook page www.facebook.com/Claregalway.info
The community-curated newsletter for Claregalway, Co. Galway
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Last month’s winner was Terence Small, Claregalway
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Post completed Crosswords to: B.D. Place, Woodleigh, Creig Buí, Baile Chláir, Co na Gaillimhe.
1st correct Crossword opened wins a meal for 2 in the Arches Hotel, Cois Chláir, Claregalway.
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Supermarket Opening Hours
Post Office Opening Hours
Monday–Saturday: 8am–9pm Sunday & Bank Hols: 9am–7pm
Monday–Friday: 9am–5:30pm Saturday: 9am–1pm
Tel: 091 798 138
Tel: 091 798 101
Keep it Local & SAVE! SAVE! SAVE! With our range of Quality Well Priced SuperValu own branded items, our low priced Daily Basics Range, Our 3-weekly WOW & Handbill Promotions & of course of AquaFresh AquaFresh FreshFresh & Special Minty & Minty TateDen & Lylewith 100s Tate & Lyle Our Bargain Big Branded Offers that will not be beaten. pump pump Granulated Sugar Granulated Sugar Here special offers in Hughes’ Bargain Den: €1.99€1.99 each each 1kg a sample of our many 1kg is just Only Only €1.19 or €1.19 or 2 for €1.59 2 for €1.59
Or Or 2 for 2€2.99 for €2.99
Tate & Lyle 1kg Granulated Sugar Only €1.19 or 2 for €1.59
AquaFresh Fresh & Minty pump €1.99 each or 2 for €2.99
Batchelors Baked Beans/Peas 3 pack 225g Only €1.99 each
Weetabix Weetos 350g Rec. Price €1.59 or 2 for €2.99
Persil Colour 90 wash 6.3kg Only €19.99
Plenty Kitchen Towel ‘The Fat One’ 4 pack Only €4
Keep it Local—Shop at Hughes SuperValu (Check local paper & our Handbills for our many specials) 36
The community-curated newsletter for Claregalway, Co. Galway
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