The Clare Echo 11/10/2018

065 671 9021

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editor@clareecho.ie

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11 Oct 2018

Lock-in at Cusack Park C lON THE MOO-VE: Geraldine Healy at Midwest Electrical’s birthday celebrations last

Friday.

Photo by Martin Connolly

PÁRAIC McMAHON

news@clareecho.ie

USACK Park officials have promised there will be no repeat of Sunday’s ‘lock-in’ which saw swarms of GAA fans stuck in the county grounds for a short time. Following the SHC semi-final on Sunday, just a single gate was open for spectators to exit Cusack Park. Large queues formed and it took several minutes for the main gates to be opened while over a thousand people attempted to leave the county grounds via one gate.

Tom McNamara was one of the several individuals unable to leave due to the locked gates. He told The Clare Echo about his experience. “Coming out after there was a lot of chaos, the double door gates weren’t open, there was only one exit point out of the sta-

lGATES LOCKED: Cusack Park.

Photo by Martin Connolly

dium and you just wonder if there was an emergency what could have happened.”

A spokesperson for Clare GAA outlined, “As soon as we were aware, within a minute the gates were opened”. When asked whether discussions have taken place at county board level regarding the locked gates since the weekend, the representative was adamant “It won’t be happening again”.

More on PAGE 8

2 NEWS

THURSDAY, OCT 11 2018

Index 6

BUDGET SPECIAL

AOIBHÍN GARRIHY

16-17

ENTERTAINMENT

18-19

XMAS PARTIES

22-27

BUSINESS

31-34

MOTORING

35-37

PROPERTY

38-39

SPORT

40-41

The Square, Ennis, County Clare Telephone: 065 671 9021

NEWSDESK

Email: editor@clareecho.ie

SALES

Email: ciara.farrell@clareecho.ie or ger.naughton@clareecho.ie

l SUITS YOU, SIR: Popular businessman Patrick Bourke and staff member Seán Dunleavy address the crowd in Patrick Bourke Menswear in Kilrush - which was recently refurbished - last Friday as the iconic Clare establishment celebrated 90 years

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Gift Sets & Gift Vouchers Available.

Upgrade for Ennis hospital?

STUART HOLLY

editor@clareecho.ie

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SIGNIFICANT upgrade of surgical facilities at Ennis, Nenagh and St John’s hospitals to relieve pressure on University Hospital Limerick (UHL) is to be considered by the cabinet following a Dáil debate on the overcrowding crisis.

The issue was raised by Clare Fine Gael TD Joe Carey who said that “more can and must be done” with Ennis, Nenagh and St. John’s to alleviate the record levels of overcrowding at UHL, particularly with the onset of the winter months.

He identified Ennis as a “vital cog in the wheel” and welcomed the fact that Clare County Council recently granted planning permission for a new outpatient department off the Kilrush Road.

“We need to see further investment in Ennis hospital, particularly in surgical theatres, and an expansion in the opening hours of the medical assessment unit and minor injuries clinics.

Agreeing with the proposal to upgrade facilities at the smaller hospitals to relieve the burden at UHL, Minister of State Finian McGrath, who was deputising for Health Minister Simon Harris, said that he would convey that view at cabinet and to the Minister.

With around 67,000 attendances last year, Minister McGrath said that the emer-

gency department at UHL was one of the busiest in the country and demand continued to rise, with a six per cent increase recorded over the past twelve months.

“The national development plan includes provision for a 96-bed replacement ward block at UHL for which the HSE has provided capital funding to progress to the design phase. However it is currently anticipated that construction is unlikely to commence before 2021.

“Given the pressure on emergency departments, the HSE has proposed that around 600 additional acute beds and 290 additional residential care beds be phased in over the next two years. These proposals include a 60-bed modular unit at UHL,” Minister McGrath explained.

Referring to the continuing problem of overcrowding at UHL, Deputy Carey said that in the past two months alone, 900 patients were waiting on trolleys, the highest number recorded in the country.

“There are many contributory factors to this, including that some surgical theatres and consultants are not available seven days a week, but the major issue is a lack of acute bed capacity in the region. Management at UHL had put forward two projects to boost bed capacity, with the 60-bed modular unit and a new 96-bed block,” he added.

11 - 14 October www.ennisfoodfestival.com aa aa @ennisfoodfestival  @ennisfoodfest 

Programme 2018

#EnnisFoodFestival

Thursday October 11

5.30pm

Celebrity chef Gary O’Hanlon of RTE’s The Restaurant oversees Podge Collins and Tracey Guilfoyle in what promises to be a fun-packed cook-off!

Admission: Free

6pm – 8pm - Dan O’Connell’s (The Square Bar)

7.30 – Hotel Woodstock, Ennis

Must pre-book with Local Enterprise Office Clare Sponsored by Bank of Ireland and LEO Clare

Friday October 12

Irish tapas at McHugh’s, Parnell St. ‘2 pints for the price of 1’ promotional offer on pints of Loudon’s Draught beer, brewed in Feakle. (while stocks last)

Sunday October 14 6pm – 8pm - Mallee Thai

8.30am – 1pm

Say good bye to this year’s Ennis Food Festival with a two-course meal for the promotional price of €13.50 (children’s menu €5) at the town’s newest restaurant Mallee Thai, located across the road form St Flannan’s College.

6pm @ glór - Launch of ‘Fruit & Veg’

All Weekend

Enjoy music while you shop at Ennis Farmers Market, Roslevan Launch of ‘Fruit & Veg’ still life group exhibition at glór, sponsored by Old Ground Hotel

7pm - Whiskey Trail

Led by Eric Flynn and Paul Quin of Ennis Whiskey Club. 4 measures, 4 bars.

Start at Lucas Bar, on to Knox’s, Nora Culligans and Cruises.

Cost: €25 pp To book contact glór box office on: 065 684 3103 9pm McHugh’s, Parnell Street stages the final of the Home Brew Competition The public invited to participate in judging! Irish Tapas served.

Saturday October 13 11am – 3pm - Artisan Food

Honey, chocolate, cheese, nut butters, pork and lots of other delectable goodies at the Market Building.

Restaurant Festival Specials – showcasing the best food/ ingredients from Clare at:  Legends Restaurant, Temple Gate Hotel  Rowan Tree Café  Town Hall  No 41, Abbey Street  Cruises, Abbey Street (fish from Clare specials)

Special Clare inspired cocktail at the Cocktail Bar at No 41, Abbey Street Wine tastings throughout the weekend at The Wine Buff, Lower Market St.

10am – 12.30 - Still Life Workshop for Children (aged 10+)

By artist Richard Sharp at glór. Canvases, paints and brushes supplied.

Cost: €7.00 To book telephone glór: 065 6843103.

11am – 1pm - ‘Eat My Shop’ Food Trail

10 shops are paired with 10 chefs or confectioners. You can taste the delicious results on this fun free food trail.

For a list of the participating shops see: www.ennisfoodfestival.com or on Facebook: @ennisfoodfestival 12.15pm - ‘Bike Buffet’

Whether you cycle a high nelly or a racer, you’ll enjoy this culinary journey.

A starter at the Rowan Tree Café, lunch in the sheltered woods at Lees Road, with lobster rolls or fresh fish with hand cut chips from Julia’s Lobster Truck (with music of course). Followed by a quick cycle back to Ennis for desserts at Peckish vegan café.

€30 per person or €50 for two.

Booking @www.glor.ie or 065 6843103 12pm – 4pm - ‘Honey, We Have our own Show!’

At the Rowan Tree café with bee keeper Raymond Molloy, a live show featuring bees working their magic to create honey.

Festival Sponsors

4

NEWS

Further €1m for new library STUART HOLLY

F

editor@clareecho.ie

URTHER Government funding of €1 million has been announced for the construction of a new state of the art County Library for Clare.

Clare's Junior Minister Breen said, “I am pleased that following a number of meetings with Clare County Council and I, my colleague Minister for Rural and Community Development Michael Ring has agreed to provide another €1 million in funding towards the construction of a state of the art county library in Ennis.

“The announcement comes as Clare County Council prepares to put the multi million euro project to tender next week.”

“The development of a new county library has been the primary capital project for the Clare library service and for Clare County Council for over a decade and I am delighted

that it is now progressing to tender stage with extra funding available,” said Minister Breen.

“The new state of the art building to be constructed alongside glór will allow the library services in Clare to develop far beyond what is possible in its current location.”

The development consists of a new county library incorporating the Local Studies Centre and Library HQ with a separate 80 square metre art gallery adjacent to glór.

“The new development will allow for the co-location of the literary arts in the form of a new library as well as the visual arts in the form of a new art gallery. The performing arts will also be adjacent to the new building in glór,” added the Clare minister of state.

“This new project will also deliver more than 2,000 square metres of community space and will operate as an “Open Library” offering access to services outside of traditional opening hours.

“The new county library will also

be within walking distance of the town, extending Ennis’s cultural route from the Museum at the town centre, to the Peace Park and on to what will become the new “cultural hub”,” he said.

“A town the size of Ennis, and indeed Clare as a whole, deserves a building and service of this standard, and the additional funding and move towards the tendering process is bringing the project closer to reality.”

Artist impression of the library

ENVIROMENTAL

1 Million Black Bags

HOUSEHOLD WASTE ILLEGALLY DUMPED EACH YEAR ARE DAMAGING OUR COMMUNITY

CLLR. JOHNNY

FLYNN DAMAGE TO OUR COMMUNITY

@CllrJohnnyFlynnEnnis

Heath risks to residents & pets Environment & wildlife Impact tourism & local business

Join Me in Having Your Say in the Clare Litter Plan 2019-2021 to Combat the Clare Litter Problem

Submit suggestions by Friday, 19th October 2018 to stop anti-social behaviour:Environment Section, Clare County Council, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare or enviroff@clarecoco.ie

www.JohnnyFlynn.ie

THURSDAY, OCT 11 2018

New calls for purchase of Rocky Road STUART HOLLY editor@clareecho.ie

NEW calls have been made for Clare County Council to purchase the land surrounding the Rocky Road in Ennis.

The ancient pedestrian Rocky Road begins on the Clonroadmore Road near Sutton's Lighting and Éire Óg and exits on the Roundabout on Western Relief Road at the Icarus Statue. This trail recently earned recognition for the issue that arose from a herd of wild goats.

The history of this passageway goes back further when it served as the route from Ennis to the 12th Century Killone Abbey and St John's Well for many pilgrims and in later years used by farmers to access Ennis from the South West for fairs.

In more recent times, the Rocky Road was identified as

an area that could become a recreational amenity for the residents of Ennis. Cllr Johnny Flynn took an active part in campaigning for the purchase of this land to create a wildlife park and walks back in 2016 and is revisiting the issue this month.

“When the Western Relief ring road of Ennis was being developed, there was a public outcry for Clare County Council to obtain the land on the Rocky Road so the people of the town could access this for recreation," Cllr Flynn explained.

"There were funds allocated for amenity purpose in May 2014, but no action has been taken to proceed. This month, I’m reviving this cry with a new notice of motion for use these funds to be for the purchase of this land for the people of Ennis to enjoy, particularly to serve the south and west of Ennis."

Public ideas wanted for Clare litter plan

FLY-TIPPING, littering, illegal dumping. Whatever you want to call it, it’s becoming a growing issue in Ennis and the surrounding areas. It’s time residents speak out to stop littering.

According to the Clare County Council recent management report, there are currently 197 active environmental complaints, and there were three large-scale illegal dumping incidents in Ennis during September but yet there have only been five fines.

Cllr Johnny Flynn comments, “The Waste Enforcement Unit is doing all they can under the current Litter Management Plan, but the growing environmental degradation and anti-social behaviour needs new solutions. I want to encourage people to join me in inputting to the new draft Litter Management Plan. My submission includes the increase in resources for inspections of the 47% of households that are not signed up to a licenced waste collection service, using drones and CCTV in common dumping areas and providing more bins for dog fouling.

“The Waste Enforcement Unit needs to be given stronger powers to enforce onthe-spot fines and prosecution. New punishments for repeat perpetrators, such as the loss of driving licence for those that use vehicles to transport the waste to remote locations to dump may serve as a stronger deterrent than fines. Dublin City ran a successful anti-littering campaign where they captured and displayed photos of dumping offenders with their faces blurred out. There are examples to follow out there for our new waste management plan.”

Litter not only impacts the environment but the eyesore it creates also has an impact on tourism for the town and county. According to a report published by Failte Ireland, the high-quality environment and scenic landscapes are a “very important” factor for 80% of holidaymakers when choosing Ireland as a holiday destination.

Cllr Flynn continues, “I’m proud of my town just like so many other residents, and I don’t want the community spirit and local business to suffer because these perpetrators make our town look unclean.

Clare generates 47,000 tonnes of household waste per year of which 10,000 tonnes, which equates to 1 million black bags, are illegally dumped.

"In light of this my submission will also highlight the needs for awareness and education campaigns in reducing waste. The reduce waste and reduce litter approach will have a larger impact on the environment. This issue impacts everyone so please have your say in the new 2019-2021 Litter Management plan.”

You can submit your recommendations for the draft Litter Management Plan 2019-2021 by Friday 19th October to the Environment Section, Clare County Council, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare or by email enviroff@clarecoco.ie.

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6

NEWS

Dr Harty to vote against 'inadequate' Budget '19

D

R MICHAEL Harty has revealed he will vote against the Government's Budget due to a number of concerns relating to the health service. The West Clare Independent TD also cited the closure of rural Post Offices in a statement to The Clare Echo over Tuesday's Budget.

"I have listened carefully to the Minister Paschal Donohoe's Budget 2019 speech, particularly in relation to the section relating to the allocation of resources for our beleaguered Health Service," explained Dr Harty.

"I am very disappointed that funding for the Sláintecare reform programme was not specifically identified. Implementing Sláintecare lacks urgency and has no specific timeline on delivering expanded services to patients in the community or in our acute hospitals. The essential expansion of bed capacity to deal with increasing demand and all-year-round A&E overcrowding remains inadequate."

The Kilmihil man also ques-

tioned the expansion of medical card eligibility without any resolution of the GP manpower crisis or ensuring the sustainability of general practice - saying it "shows a complete lack of knowledge of the difficulties facing primary care and places it under further stress".

"This will not serve the people well as it will result in longer waiting times for access to a GP and further add to the dissatisfaction of the public with the health service," he said.

In what is seen as Dr Harty's first time voting against the Government on a major issue, he continued, "People of the Mid-West will have to endure several years of prolonged inadequate services due to the problems caused of 2008 reconfiguration of the health service without adequate forward planning. There is no light at the end of the tunnel for the Mid-West in this budget with regard to increased bed capacity."

He added that the Government has ignored the needs of rural communities, referring to

l TAKING A STAND: Dr Harty is voting against the Budget

An Post and broadband.

"Reflection on the performance of this Government during the past year in relation to rural Ireland, notably the issue of Post Office closures, has left many communities feeling ignored and struggling to cope

Rural Clare to benefit - Carey F UNDING from Budget 2019 will ensure the rural communities in Clare will feel the benefits of the recovering economy, Fine Gael TD Joe Carey has said.

Deputy Carey, who is chairman of the Oireachtas Committee on Rural and Community Affairs said he was delighted to see the Government’s continued responsible and balanced approach to the public finances.

“Rural Ireland has borne the brunt of the austerity measures introduced after Fianna Fail made a mess of our economy. Today people living in rural Clare need new support measures to help deal with current threats, such as the impending Brexit.

“Budget 2019 provides for an additional €53 million capital and €8 million current allocations for the Department of Rural and Community Development in 2019.

“The most significant new expenditure measure for the Department in 2019 is the

BUDGET REACTION P30

Darach Honan & Eoin Neylon

establishment of the new Rural Regeneration and Development Fund which has a provision of €55 million in 2019 and €315 million up to 2022. This will ensure a fair distribution of funding throughout the country.

“This fund represents an unprecedented commitment by this Government to strengthen our rural economies and communities.

He continued, “Fine Gael know that agriculture is a cornerstone of our rural communities, which is why support the sector and in particular, disadvantaged farmers, an additional €57 million of current expenditure will be allocated to the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine in 2019. “€60 million in current and capital Brexit related supports will be provided to improve resilience in the farm sector, as along with supporting productivity improvements in the food sector."

with social and financial sustainability."

He added, "This budget, in short, is inadequate. It does not address the urgent needs of my constituents or the people of Ireland, I therefore cannot support Budget 2019.

THURSDAY, OCT 11 2018

Trouble for tourist trade - Cllr Crowe

THE VAT hike for the tourism sector has been slammed by Fianna Fail General Election candidate, Cllr Cathal Crowe.

The Meelick man insists that the Clare tourism sector will be unnecessarily harmed by the 4.5 per cent hike and that the fragility within the hotel and restaurant sector will now be tested with the new measures, In a statement to The Clare Echo, Cllr Crowe said, "Those who have tonight tried to justify the increase in the tourism / restaurant rate of VAT (9 per cent to 13.5 per cent) in Budget 2019 have repeatedly cited the example of extortionate hotel room prices in Dublin.

"Dublin has a thriving tourism economy - the same can't be said for all corners of the country."

He continued, "There’s an inherent fragility to the hotel / restaurant industry and so many jobs are involved. Money spent by the consumer trickles down to other service & goods providers in the supply chain such farmers, butchers, laundries, etc.

"The scale of the VAT increase announced will be very damaging to some fledgling entrants and to the tourism sector in Clare."

Cllr. Cathal Crowe is elected to represent the Shannon Municipal District on Clare County Council. He has been selected to stand as a Fianna Fáil candidate in Clare in the next general election following the withdrawal of Dr John Hillery from the ticket.

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8

NEWS

THURSDAY, OCT 11 2018

Cusack Park chiefs promise no repeat of locked gates PÁRAIC McMAHON

C

news@clareecho.ie

ONCERN has been expressed with the lack of consideration for health and safety of spectators at the home of Clare GAA. When the final whistle sounded in Cratloe’s one point semi-final win over Kilmaley on Sunday, just a single gate was open for spectators to exit Cusack Park. Large queues formed and it took several minutes for the main gates to be opened while over a thousand people attempted to leave the county grounds via one gate.

Tom McNamara, who was at the game, told The Clare Echo about his experience. “Coming out after there was a lot of chaos, the double door gates weren’t open, there was only one exit point out of the stadium and you just wonder if there was an emergency what could have happened. It’s something that Cusack Park need to

address ... because there was a queue back of people up the steps of the stand at one point.

“There was people trying to push through and I suppose we were lucky that there wasn’t a big crowd,” the Kilmaley man added.

A spokesperson for Clare GAA outlined, “As soon as we were aware, within a minute the gates were opened”. When asked whether discussions have taken place at county board level regarding the locked gates since the weekend, the representative was adamant, “It won’t be happening again”.

For all knockout games taking place in Cusack Park this year for both the Clare senior football and hurling championships, access and exit points for the Ard Chomhairle section that have been used since the redevelopment of the stadium have been locked. Responding to a query from The Clare Echo asking what would happen to patrons seated in this section in the case of a fire or emergency, the spokesperson added that no one is ever locked in.

l PARKED: Match-goers were stuck in no-man's land last weekend as they attempted to exit Cusack Park following County Championship semi-final action Photo by Martin Connolly

THURSDAY, OCT 11 2018

2018 Ennis Food Festival prepares a feast of treats Four tasty days of events begin STUART HOLLY

E

editor@clareecho.ie

NNIS Food Festival 2018 has revealed its programme of events staged from October 11 to October 14.

Ennis Food Festival will this year shine a light on all that is great about the local food scene s and the wonderful artisan producers and growers who produce delicious food throughout the Banner county.

Highlight events this year include a cookery caper at Hotel Woodstock, Ennis Thursday October 11, which will see Padraig ‘Podge’ Collins in a cook-off with Tracey Guilfoyle of Ireland’s Fittest Family, overseen by celebrity chef Gary O’Hanlon of RTE TV show ‘The Restaurant’.

Bank of Ireland sponsors this event, and admission is free, but you must reserve your place at clarelocalenterprise.com.

Friday, October 12 sees the final of the home brew competition at McHugh’s Parnell Street from 9pm. Members of the public are invited to cast their vote in addition to the panel of expert judges.

On the same evening a whiskey trail led by whiskey expert Eric Flynn of Chapel Gate Whiskey starts at 7pm, it takes in Lucas’s Bar, Knox’s, Nora Culligan’s and Cruises.

‘Eat My Shop’ on Saturday, October 13 sees local chefs and confectioners paired with 10 shops and asked to create a food to reflect the shop brand they are paired

with. They prepare and serve the food between 11-1pm with bite-sized portions available to sample free of charge.

Cycling enthusiasts are asked to sign up for the ‘Bike Buffet’ on Saturday. It will blend cycling with eating (enjoy your food while working off those calories). First up is a starter served at The Rowan Tree Café, from there the group will cycle to Lees Road woods for lobster rolls or fish with hand cut chips from’ Julia’s Lobster Truck’.

Background music will be bike-powered!

The final leg of the cycle is back to Ennis to Peckish Vegan Café for dessert. This event to be led by Roisin Garvey of An Taisce Green Schools Travel. If you don’t own a bike, don’t despair, Tierney’s of Abbey St will rent you one. No excuses!

Tickets for the Bike Buffet event and also the Whiskey Trail are available from glór.

Saturday will also see the Artisan Food take place in the Market Building form 11-3pm. Honey, chocolate, an assortment of cheese producers, smoked salmon, nut butters, jams, pates, pork and lots of other delectable goodies.

Other quirky events taking place over the weekend include, ‘Honey, We Have a Show’ – featuring working bees, An ‘Afterhours Chocolate Adventure’ at Willow boutique; and a tasting of Loudon’s Draught beer, brewed in Feakle at Dan O’Connell/Square Bar. A number of local restaurants will be running Clare inspired ‘Specials’ menu, including a starter, main and dessert featuring locally sourced produce.

For information about all of the events see: www.ennisfoodfestival.com.

l MODEL BEHAVIOUR: Local models who took part in the County Boutique’s annual A/W Fashion show which took place at their O’Connell Street premises last Friday

NEWS 7

10

NEWS

Clare JPC to host info night on internet safety

W

ITH almost one third of Irish children interacting with strangers online according to recent research, Clare Joint Policing Committee (JPC) is organising a free child safety online information evening in Ennis on Thursday, October 25 for parents, teachers and anyone dealing with young people.

The event will feature a presentation by Dr Maureen Griffin, a forensic psychologist and Director of MGMS Training Limited, who has visited over 700 schools speaking on issues around social media.

“The presentation is open to all adults working with and/or caring for children. It will cover what is currently popular among our children; what the potential dangers are and offer practical advice on how to protect children online,” stated Dr Griffin.

She added that issues such as social networking sites; social messaging and chatting apps;

video-streaming; gaming; mobile device safety; grooming; sexting; screen-time and cyber-bullying will be addressed.

Councillor Mary Howard, Chairperson of the Clare JPC, said, “The talk will give parents a way to open up a conversation with their children about their online activities and who they are talking to online.”

Cllr Howard said the upcoming information evening takes place at a time when young people across Clare are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of online safety.

Clare JPC member and Chief Supt for the Clare Garda Division, John Kerin said “This is very important and people need the tools and knowledge to understand what is happening online.”

The purpose of Clare JPC is to provide a forum where local authority and An Garda Síochána, with the participation of Oireachtas members, local Elected Members, and community interests, make recommen-

l WEB OF SUPPORT: At Áras Contae an Chláir ahead of the child safety online evening are John Kerin, Clare Chief Supt; Leonard Cleary, Clare Co Co; Cllr Mary Howard, Clare JPC Chair; and Dr Maureen Griffin, forensic psychologist Photo by Eamon Ward

dations on matters affecting the policing of the local area to contribute to the improved safety of the community.

The upcoming free talk will

take place in The Great Hall, Templegate Hotel, Ennis, Co. Clare, at 7.30 p.m. on Thursday, 25 October 2018. Enquiries to clarejpc@clarecoco.ie.

THURSDAY, OCT 11 2018

Coastal flood risk

FOLLOWING a Status Orange Weather Advisory from Met Éireann issued at 11.00am today (Wednesday, 10 October 2018), Clare County Council is warning members of the public in County Clare to avoid exposed coastal locations from Thursday evening through to Friday afternoon due to forecast stormy conditions.

Strong winds associated with the storm, named Callum under the Met Éireann / UK Met Office storm naming system, coinciding with high spring tides will affect Ireland on Thursday night and Friday morning.

Winds will be strongest overnight and early on Friday, gusting between 110 and 130 km/h at coasts. High seas along the Clare coastline, including the Shannon Estuary, will bring a risk of coastal flooding.

Clare County Council has indicated that any coastal areas which have previously flooded are at risk and people in such situations are advised to take appropriate precautions.

Members of the public are advised to refer to local media and Clare County Council’s social media accounts (www.instagram.com/clarecountycouncil / www. twitter.com/clarecoco / www.facebook. com/clarecountycouncil).

Visit www.winterready.ie for more information on preparing for storms and other inclement weather.

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Master of Ceremonies - Doireann Garrihy plus lots of Giveaways…

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12 INTERACTIVE

THURSDAY, OCT 11 2018

A new era of

INTERACTION twitter.com/ ClareEcho

facebook.com/ clareecho

instagram.com/ theclareecho

www.clareecho.ie

Tweet of the week PAUL HOWARD @AkaPaulHoward The bin men have just been. I punched the air at the thought of starting a new fortnight with an empty wheelie bin.

Middle age will happen to you all.

‘‘

Facebook comment of the week

‘What if emergency services needed access’ Corina Shanahan McCarthy in response to photo by Martin Connolly ‘Crowds waiting to get out past the locked gates of Cusack Park today’

THURSDAY, OCT 11 2018

Where there’s a will, there’s a greenway...

PÁRAIC McMAHON

O

news@clareecho.ie

NE Clare man is leading the crusade to see a 360km Shannon Greenway developed to benefit villages on Ireland’s longest river.

East Clare tourism promoter, Eoin O’Hagan this March pitched the idea of The Shannon Greenway to Taoiseach Leo Varadkar who said “it’s something we could look at”.

On Monday, he gave a presentation at Clare County Council outlining his vision of the project. “I was told to think big and I couldn’t think much bigger than the River Shannon,” he began. “The middle of Ireland has suffered from not being on tourists radar, it’s time to make a move on it”.

The Shannon Greenway would run from the Pot in Cavan to the last light at Loop Head. “Every town village and community along the river would benefit from the Greenway” Eoin said, adding it would attract slow tourism.

O’Hagan highlighted necessary

works to ensure the Greenway would flourish in the county. “In East Clare we have suffered a shortage of beds for visitors. The two hotels planned

by Padraig Giblin in Scariff will go a long way to solving that problem in the area. These hotels along with The Lakeside and Killaloe Hotels can benefit from a Shannon Greenway.”.

Concluding his well-received presentation, Eoin quoted what JFK read on the apron of Shannon Airport before boarding Airforce One in June 1963. “Tis the Shannon’s brightly glancing stream, Brightly gleaming, silent in the morning beam, Oh, the sight entrancing, Thus returns from travels long, Years of exile, years of pain, To see old Shannon’s face again, O’er the waters dancing”.

Feakle construction to begin

WORK on a new Clare County Council social housing development comprising 13 homes will commence in Feakle at the end of October.

Funded by the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government under the Rebuilding Ireland Programme, the scheme is the first social housing development in Feakle since 1973. The development, which consists of a mix of 2-bed and 3-bed units in a range of single and two storey houses, has gone through extensive public and department consultation and includes a new pedestrian way linking the main street to the school and playground.

Clare County Council signed a contract with Custy Construction ltd on Monday to take possession of the site towards the end of the month. Anne Haugh, Director of Social Development, said the development is one of nine capital construction projects for Clare County Council including other sites in Shannon, Ennis, Clonlara and Quilty.

l HOUSE IN ORDER: At the singing of a contract for the construction of a new social housing development in Feakle (L-R: Dermot Custy, Custy Construction Ltd; Cllr Gerry Flynn, Chair of the Social Development SPC; Aidan Healy, Reddy Architecture; Michael Begley, Mayor of Clare; Anne Haugh, Director of Social Development; Pat Dowling, Chief Executive, Clare County Council

NEWS 13

14 NEWS

530 schoolkids link up with Council employees

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IXTEEN Clare County Council employees were recently recognised for their role in teaching Junior Achievement programmes to over 530 school children in County Clare, and for giving them an insight into what it is like to work in Clare County Council.

The aim of the project is to inspire and motivate young people to maximise their potential by valuing their education and seeing a future for themselves in the world of work.

Schools that benefited from these programmes included, Holy Family NS, Ennis, Scoil Chríost Rí, Ennis, St. Flannan’s College, Ennis, Tuamgraney NS, Annagh NS, Lahinch NS, Scoil Mhainchín, Ennistymon, Clouna NS and CBS Primary, Ennis.

Many of the students involved in the project were brought on a site visit to Clare County Council. The students got to see the various roles that people carry out in Clare County Council and learn about issues that they deal with on a daily basis. Many

students visited Clare County Council Fire Station and the Council Chamber, where they quizzed Mayor Michael Begley.

Through the Junior Achievement programme, students learn about all of the opportunities that will be available to them when they complete their education.

The Clare County Council business volunteers taught the Junior Achievement programmes over a period of five weeks and also shared their own work place experience with the students.

Councillor Michael Begley, Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council thanked the volunteers for the work that they had done during the year with the students and Pat Dowling CEO, Clare County Council presented them with certificates in recognition of their efforts on the Junior Achievement project.

Ray Fogarty of Junior Achievement said, “Clare County Council staff have worked on the Junior Achievement project for the past 12 years and it has

l INSPIRING YOUTH: (back row) Council staff Emer Bowe, PJ Carmody, Johnnie Daly, Gráinne Reddan, Michael O’Brien, Brian Eccles, Adrian Rahill, Angela Naughton, Rodger Mc Mahon, Delores Conroy, and Ray Fogarty of Junior Achievement Ireland; (front Row) Karen Stackpoole, Kathy Coleman, Angela O’Sullivan, Pat Dowling, CEO, Michael Begley, Cathaoirleach, Nicola Killeen, Joan Leahy, Ann O’Dea and Marie O’Neill

gone from strength to strength.

"Through spending time in the classroom with local Clare students and bringing them in to see their facilities, our students gain an understanding of

the various roles in Clare County Council and the opportunities that will be available to them in the future...The feedback from the schools involved has been excellent.”

THURSDAY, OCT 11 2018

Public talk on giant hogweed

A PUBLIC talk and workshop focusing on best practice in the control of giant hogweed in counties Clare and Limerick will take place at Limerick County Hall in Dooradoyle on Wednesday, November 14 from 7pm to 9pm.

Introduced to Ireland and Britain from Asia in the 19th century, giant hogweed can grow up to five metres in height and is infesting land across Ireland. It is an unwanted invasive plant because it produces a toxic sap that can cause severe burns on contact, and it damages the environment.

Jointly organised by Clare County Council and Limerick City & County Council the upcoming talk will be hosted by Dr Frances Giaquinto, a well-known specialist in invasive plants. Dr Giaquinto is currently assisting the local authorities in Clare and Limerick prepare a strategy to eradicate Giant hogweed from the Lower River Shannon catchment.

The talk promises to be lively, informative and based on the most recent evidence of best practice in giant hogweed control.

This will be an opportunity to learn how to recognise giant hogweed, where it grows, how it disperses, how to prevent it spreading further, how to eradicate it from your land and what to do if you come in contact with the sap. The event will be followed by a questions and answers session.

For further information contact: Tom O’Neill or Congella McGuire, Heritage Officers, Limerick and Clare County Councils.

Say I Do at the Cliffs of Moher ADVERTORIAL

“It will be celebrated With pomp and parade Bonfires and illuminations From one end of this continent To the other” - John Adams

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e are Clara and Orla and together we run and operate Coastal Ceremonies, celebrating with couples and families at the many stunning venues dotted along the coast of County Clare.

We offer an alternative type of ceremony; a non religious, anywhere-at-all kind of celebration. It seems to be a time in Ireland where we’re all navigating the newish landscape of ceremonial change.

How cool is it that we have evolved to being able to get married anywhere at all, each day of the week, free to enjoy the music and readings of our choosing? That we can introduce our new babies to the world with ‘pomp and parade’, declaring our love amid friends and family in our own unique way?

Or that we can celebrate the beauty, the gift and the blessing of enduring love in the form of a renewal of vows?

We are Accredited Celebrants and it is our job to script and deliver your ceremony, be it for your Wedding Day, your child’s Naming Ceremony or a renewal of your marriage vows. There is so much freedom in the ceremonies that we offer; non reli-

gious, mixed faith or semi religious. Venues range from lush back gardens to idyllic country cottages to the wilds of The Cliffs of Moher. Traditions and customs are celebrated through ceremony enhancements like wish trees, sand ceremonies and handfasting rituals.

Each ceremony is unique to couples and their families, with the couple's love story at the centre of the wedding script. It really is as unique and intimate as you can dream.

Should you wish to celebrate a Wedding, Baby Naming or Vow Renewal Ceremony, click or swipe to www.coastalceremonies.ie. We’ll be your Celebrant. We’ll share your story. We’ll facilitate your fairytale.

For more information check out www.coastalceremonies.ie, follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter or email us at coastalceremonies@gmail. com Phone 087 9740546.

l SPREADING THE LOVE: Accredited celebrants Clara and Orla offer an alternative type of ceremony which is non religious

Photo by Gavin Coughlan

WEDDING FAIR 15

THURSDAY, OCT 11 2018

The scene

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Tie the knot Inn style

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ISITORS to the Inn At Dromoland in Newmarket on Fergus were treated to a day of exquisite matrimonial bliss on Sunday as the wedding destination served up a bonanza of bridal treats.

Even Mr Ireland Wayne Walsh (inset) made an appearance while brides a n d

grooms to be were given ideas and inspiration for their upcoming big day.

Delicious tasters from their eloquent menu were on offer while visitors watched as models hit the catwalk in some of the finest gowns and suits.

A number of stall-holders also had their wares on display including Angel Flowers, the Bridal Emporium in Miltown Malbay and Cakes

By Deborah.

The Inn At Dromoland is one of County Clare’s top wedding destinations and the experienced staff are always looking to welcome engaged couples to take a tour with their wedding coordinator.

l TOP TEAM: Claire Coughlan, Inn At Dromoland Deputy Manager with Sales & Marketing Manager Tom Shanahan and Mandy Maher, Catwalk Modelling Photos by Julie Tillett

If you’re interested in having your wedding party at The Inn At Dromoland, call their wedding coordinator on 061 368 161.

l BRIDE TO BE: Olivia Rogowska with Natasja Avenstrup, mother in law to be, at the wedding showcase on Sunday Photo by Julie Tillett

l WHITE ALRIGHT: A stunning gown worn by a model on the Inn At Dromoland catwalk and (left) stallholder Amanda from Shannon-based Angel Flowers

Photo by Julie Tillett

16 COLUMNIST

THURSDAY, OCT 11 2018

Aoibhín Garrihy LOVE CLARE First family holiday fun THE NOTEBOOK

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E had our first family holiday last week and what a wonderful but military operation it was!! I never realised how different a holiday with kids really is let alone all the packing when taking these little people on tour!

Team that with my love of dressing her numerous times a day just for fun and it made for a lot of extra baggage!

While away I read Maia Dunphy’s book The M Word on parenting and I loved it. She gives a very real and funny account of life as a new Mum and it humanized a lot of the stuff most of us feel in the early stages. I would highly recommend.

My good friend Aoibheann Mc Caul (some of you may know her as Caoimhe Dillon) from our days in

l SPECIAL MOMENTS: Hanorah and I on holiday. Above, BEO Bites will visit the Crescent Shopping Centre, Limerick Saturday Oct 20

Fair City ties the knot this weekend and I can’t wait to see her as a stunning bride. Then it’s off to Kilkenny for another sold out BEO event at the Lyrath Estate. For those of you who want to know what exactly

HAPPENINGS I AM BABA A theatre adventure for babies created by internationally renowned theatre director Anna Newell and award-winning composer David Goodall and is a magical adventure of song, lights and textures for babies aged 0-12 months on Friday 19th October at 10/11/12noon.

See glor.ie for more BUNRATTY BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL The festival takes place from the 19th21st October in the stunning surrounds of the castle and folk park showcasing artists from across Ireland and abroad.

See Bunratty Bluegrass Festival on Facebook for more.

LIP SYNC WEST CLARE The ultimate Lip Sync battle takes place on Sunday 4th November in the Quilty Tavern all in aid of two very worthy charities, Elevate and Pieta House.

Tickets are on sale now. For more on line up and details see Lip Sync West Clare on Facebook.

BEO is all about BEO Bites will visit the Crescent Shopping Centre, Limerick for this year’s Inspire festival on Saturday 20th October at 1pm.

Pop along and say hi!

We’re all very excited in the Garrihy household about the upcoming series of Podge and Rodge as Doireann takes on the two rogues in the new presenting role. The first episode airs on RTÉ Two on Monday 22nd October so be sure to tune in and best of luck lil sis!

COVET IN

CLARE QUEEN B These beauties from Nozomi Shoe Boutique, Ennis will have you buzzing with excitiement. Available in classic navy and white they are the best way to do comfort without compromising on utter style.

WINTER SUN Planning a getaway with your little ones this winter? Wild Atlantic Opticians have a range of Cébé kiddies shades that protect your child’s eyes while also making them look super cute in the sun! Hanorah recently sported a pair and loved them!

l DOIREANN’S NEW PROJECT: Doireann takes on the two rogues Podge and Rodge in her new presenting role

CULTURED I recently started following Audrey Hamilton’s work on social media and she has been exhibiting at BEO more recently. Her animal prints would put a smile on anyone’s face and you can check them out for yourself in Willow Boutique, Ennis.

BROW WOW! I recently tried Benefit’s newest eyebrow contour pen and fell in love. It’s got a dark, light, definer and highlighter option and it’s so easy to use. The perfect addition to your make up bag.

MOVE YO BODY Strugging with your fitness regime, invest in a new kit! New gym gear can be the best motivator and this little set from Lifestyle Sports is all kinds of fabulous.

COLUMNIST 17

THURSDAY, OCT 11 2018

Top 5 Winter Warmers in Clare HEARTY STEW IN THE CORNERSTONE LAHINCH

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After a wander around Lahinch, the perfect place to warm the cockles is the ever famous Cornerstone, with its immaculate exterior and interiors, a few locals at the bar, and good banter inside, what more could you wish for to set you off on your way.

SEAFOOD PACKED CHOWDER IN THE BELLBRIDGE

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Spanish Point is a place I visit a lot, and I love all the time I can get there.

With no signs of overdelopment, wonderful walks, beautiful beach which is perfect for a walk with the dogs (when rules permit!), the bellbridge commands a perfect spot at the end of the beach area, and not only will a bowl of their famous chowder warm you up, but the open fire, and most of all the warm welcome from all the crew there will do just that.

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THE OLD CLASSIC, IN THE POETS CORNER

A Vol au Vent in the old Ground, poets corner is a perfect place for meet ups, and renowned for hot whiskeys at Christmas, the Poets corner and their famous vol au vent is often just what the doctor ordered, although something that tastes that good isn’t usually what a doctor orders. What’s best about this is they have kept this classic unchanged over the years, just as it should be, somethings just cant be improved upon!

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TASTY BITES IN THE SNUG, MOUNTSHANNON

So while you might not have expected a pizza as winter warmer, lets think outside the box a bit!

Think an opener with an amazing French onion soup, before the main event, great Pizza base, melted cheeses, amazing toppings, ultimate cosy atmosphere, on top of all this, warming glass of French red, maybe even organic, and you’ve got a little piece of heaven, just don’t ask me for a slice!

SWEET TREAT, COZY COTTAGE CAFÉ, SIXMILEBRIDGE

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To finish off, we would have to have a desert!

This place oozes warmth and character, and what’s best about it, is the homemade approach to all their food, what could be more warming than a freshly made tart, fresh cream and cup of tea. After a walk on the local 12’O Clock hills, it might be just what you need to refuel, overall its got it all, a beautiful setting by the river, beautiful building, and warm welcome.

Health&Living Fitness & Mindset Corner with Cillian Keane Fitness, Personal Trainer

Speak up on this mental health week

T HELP IS AT HAND: Opening up to a loved one is a positive step for those suffering with personal anguish

HIS week is important for so many who are spreading much needed awareness for those struggling with mental health issues.

The past two years I have put myself out there to tell my own story in writing articles online and in The Clare Echo in the hope that it inspires someone out there.

I have become braver in telling my story when a few years ago I had bottled it all up. I’m not afraid anymore to share my experiences.

My aim is to spread a positive message on mental health and to reach those

people that need to hear it the most. Life will have it’s up and downs but how you deal with it is the key.

That is why I’m urging anyone to speak up to a close friend, family member or your local doctor when going through a tough period.

You need to realise that you are not alone. There is so much support and help out there that can steer you in the right direction.

Going through struggles has shaped who I am today.

It has shaped my personality, my thinking, it has motivated me not to return to my old ways. I used to isolate myself and shy away from

people. Now I have built up my confidence and self-esteem to a high level.

What were the top two things I did to get back living a happy and productive life?

Speaking up about what was going on in my head and exercising day to day.

Fitness helped me mentally and physically. I used fitness as a way of building my self-esteem and confidence and feeling good within my own skin.

I will be speaking about my own past struggles this Friday, October 12 in SONAS, Chapel lane and some may ask as to the reason why I’m speaking out

about this topic and my own past personal struggles?

The reason being is I see so many people suffer in silence. Not getting the help they require and plodding throughout life unhappy.

I hope that by me speaking that it may bring courage, a hope and a drive for those who may have been or are in my shoes at this moment.

Cillian Keane is a personal trainer at Hustle Fitness in Ennis. If you are looking to kickstart your fitness regime and get the results you strive for, contact Cillian on 0863305024 or email cillian. keane87@gmail.com.

Revival for the kids at Flynn’s Flynn’s Life Pharmacy in Ennis welcome two new products from Galway based health food company Revive which support healthy development FLYNN’S Life Pharmacy, Gort Road, Ennis are delighted to have two new products this month from Galway based Health food supplement manufacturer, Revive Active adding to their hugely successful range of adult supplements.

Junior Revive suitable for 5 - 12-year olds and Teen Revive suitable for 13 19-year olds. These daily supplements contain a range of vitamins and essential minerals needed to support healthy growth and development.

Both supplements contain Wellmune® an ingredient from Kerry Group which is derived from bakers’ yeast and clinically proven to naturally strengthen key immune cells that help keep the body healthy.

The two new supplements also contain nutrients needed for healthy bone and skeletal development, five fruit and vegetable powders including chicory prebiotic fibre and 18 essential minerals and vitamins including BC30 probiotic fibre and choline for brain function. There is no added sugar and both supplements are unflavoured.

Junior Revive and Teen Revive should be taken mixed in a favourite cereal, juice or simply in water. They come in 20 sachet box monthly packs handy for kids as they are designed to be taken on Monday to Friday with weekends free.

These supplements are free from colourings and are tasteless .

The following comments are some

of the results of research carried out by Revive Active into these two new products; “Until their immune systems are working optimally in their teens, kids need to augment their bodies’ natural defences with supplements such as daily consumption of Wellmune” comments Dr Bill Sears, Paediatrician and Associate Clinical Professor of Paediatrics at the University of California, Irvine School of Medicine.

Dr Daniel Jones BSc PhD, Director of Research and Development at Revive Active adds, “After years of research into the most current understanding of the needs of growing children and teens, we are excited to launch these two ground-breaking supplements which provide a complete approach to youth nutrition. Featuring a comprehensive vitamin and mineral profile, both formulations support cognitive development and function, strong bones, heart health and immune system support.”

EFFECTIVE: Junior & Teen Revive are now available

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK 19

THURSDAY, OCT 11 2018

Ronan Scully

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK Author spreading the word of positivity

Instrument of peace for our poor I RECENTLY was at mass on the feast day of St. Francis with the Franciscans, The Poor Clare’s and The Capuchin’s and I reflected on what it means to be “poor” and what it means to make each of us to be an instrument of God’s beautiful peace. I have noticed over my life, that to be a good person one does not need to depend on religion, status in life, job status, race, skin colour, what country they are from, political views or culture. It solely depends on how each of us treat others. The cry of the poor has always been ringing in my ears ever since I was a young person growing up and it rings even louder each day as I get closer to that day which is the end of days in my life. I have also noticed over the years that our ears are constantly bombarded each day by all sorts of sounds.

Sounds of laughter, sounds of voices, sounds of noise, sounds of music, sounds of sirens, sounds of phones, sounds of traffic, sounds of televisions and sounds of computers. Also on some days our ears hear sounds of sadness, sounds of worry, sounds of fear, sounds of depression, sounds of illness, sounds of homelessness and sounds of grief. The sounds we hear stresses a certain kind of hearing.

For me the hardest and most difficult hearing I hear is hearing the cry of the poor and even in that cry of the poor the worst of it is hearing the child’s voice crying that is poor. The cry of those who cannot speak up for themselves. The cry of those who are alone and have no one with whom to share their loneliness or sadness or homelessness. The cry of those who have no helper in this life.

The cry of those who have been abandoned or rejected. The cry of those who are so weak and helpless that you can not even contemplate or imagine. The cry of those who are at the “bottom of the heap” and live under constant oppression. The cry of those who feel they are not worthy to live. It’s the worst sound for its the

real cry of the poor. Poverty in the world is a scandal, it is a real cry for help and support.

Still, we tend to think about it only when we want to think about it. Most of us don’t see the poor on a regular basis. We rarely come face-to-face with seriously sick children, severely abused and abandoned children, people with grave depression or mental illness, the chronic homeless, the lonely elderly, the abandoned and the real poor living in our midst.

It’s easy to live without thinking about those less fortunate. But now and then, God seizes our attention. The impoverished and those with little hope cry out for justice. In unexpected moments, we hear their cry.

A clear mark of solidarity with the poor is the practice of hearing the cry of the poor and making their cries for dignity, love, justice, equality, fair play, acknowledgement, hope, care, a bed, a room and freedom our own.

EXERCISING REAL LOVE

The cries of the poor do not go away.

And, for those who have ears to hear, and believe in whatever religion or end of days they believe in, their record is clear that their God is on the side of the poor.

Somehow in our society and culture, we have found ourselves separated not only from each other, but from the poor, the orphaned, the abandoned and the homeless.

We live in a world that insulates us, for the most part, from that which is difficult and uncomfortable.

We have diversions that keep us from encountering the pain, the loneliness, the weakness, the fear, the emptiness, the meaninglessness of those around us. We even have diversions to keep us from encountering our own pain, loneliness, weakness, fear, emptiness, and meaninglessness. When we start to feel those things coming on, or sense that someone around us is in the clutches of those things,

we go to the various shopping centre’s to shop, we go to the coffee shop for a latté, we go to our local for a pint or we bury ourselves in our work or pleasures or we turn on our favourite television or radio programme. And we cease to live. Yes, we cease to live. We have ceased to hear the beating of our own heart.

We have ceased to hear the beating of the heart of the world. We have ceased to hear the cries that can melt our frigid heart and warm it with the spirit of life, the spirit of love and mercy and compassion.

The more separated we are from real love, mercy and compassion, the more lifeless we become.

The average years we live in Ireland is around 70 odd years or so. Its a short life span when you look at how old our world is. For me and people like me I have about 15 to 20 years left to live in the scheme of things. So think of those times in your life when you have exercised real love and compassion. Think of the emotions that filled you, the love that you expressed, the tenderness you felt, the wonder of being human that you knew. In the moments that you exercised that true love, mercy and compassion you were truly alive.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

As your thought for the week, I ask God to bless your ears that you may hear the cry of the poor in the midst of your daily life. I ask God to bless your ears that you may act out of the center of compassion, and know what it is to be human and fully alive. I ask God to bless your ears that you may recognize your own poverty. I ask God to bless your ears that hearing the cry of the poor and becoming poor yourself, you will find out what life is really all about and that the answer is genuine true love, compassion and giving. Let this prayer be always in your heart and on your lips so that you will always hear and recognise the cry of the poor in our world and lives.

Did you know that the most recent

POVERTY: The cries of the poor do not go away

figures to date about the state of how the gap between the rich and the poor has got bigger show us that the richest 1% in the world now have more wealth than the rest of the world put together and over a third of all income made by people in Ireland is held by the top 10% earners and that our beautiful country of Ireland that I love and adore so much has become one of the world’s most unequal in terms of income distribution before the adjustments for taxes and welfare payments.

So in view of those unequal and depressing figures, I ask all of us and especially those of us that are rich in whatever way we maybe rich to say this following prayer, So let me finish with a story by the great author Paulo Cello whom I love to read and it goes as follows, “A monk was meditating in the desert when a beggar came up to him and said: “I need to eat”. The monk -- who was almost reaching the point of perfect harmony with the spiritual world -- did not answer.

“I need to eat,” insisted the beggar. “Go to the town and ask someone else. Can’t you see that you are bothering me? I am trying to communicate with the angels” said the monk sternly.

“God placed himself lower than men, washed their feet, gave His life, and no-one recognized Him”, the beggar replied. “He who says he loves God -- who does not see -- and forgets his brother or sister - who does -- is lying”. And the beggar turned into an angel. “What a pity, you almost made it”, the angel remarked before leaving.”

Entertainment

COMHALTAS CONCERT TOUR OF CHAMPIONS

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EIDH Turas Chomhaltas Ceoltóirí Éireann Macalla na hÉireann ar chamchúirt go gairid agus seó tradisiúnta den scoth ar stáitse ar fud na tíre. Macalla na hÉireann, the 2018 Comhaltas Concert Tour of Ireland will perform in Cois na hAbhna as part of its 14-venue tour from October 7-20th. Sponsored by Bus Éireann this annual Concert Tour Bus features the best of traditional talent drawn from the four Provinces of Ireland.

Each year the tour assembles a fine mix of established artistes together with upand-coming young stars.

These are blended together into a fast-moving and colourful show that appeals to both the connoisseurs and peripheral fans of Irish traditional entertainment.

Macalla hÉireann reflects the breadth and depth of traditional Irish music, dance and song and is produced

by Cian Kearins and Niamh O’ Sullivan.

THIS YEAR’S IMPRESSIVE LINE UP IS AS FOLLOWS: Nora Butler (Tipperary) Singer Luke Maher (Offaly), Singer/Flute Séamus Tiernan (Mayo) Button Accordion /Melodeon Fionnuala Donlon (Louth) Harp Eoin Orr (Donegal) Uilleann Pipes Maura O’Connor (Limerick) Concertina Barry Conaty (Cavan) Flute/Whistle Tom Garvin (Sligo) Flute Aoife Trench (Kerry) Fiddle Thomas Ahearn (Waterford) Banjo/Mandolin Cathy Kirke (Monaghan) Bodhrán Séamus Kinsella (Offaly) Fiddle Ciara Horan (Tipperary) Dancer Leona Bowe (Tipperary) Dancer Sandra Ganley (Mayo) Dancer Laura Ganley (Mayo) Dancer Eddie Murphy (Limerick) Manager n Tickets are €12 and can be purchased in advance at Cois na hAbhna, 065 6824276. You can also book your tickets online at www.coisnahabhna.ie

PARIS FASHION DESIGNER DRAWS INSPIRATION FROM LISDOONVARNA

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NE of Paris’s leading fashion designers is to design a ‘Lisdoonvarna dress’ inspired by the romance and style of the women attending the Lisdoonvarna Matchmaking Festival.

Originally from Seoul, designer Kim Bernardin has her own boutique in Saint-Germain-des-Pres, discovered the festival, through her friend Patricia Killeen who wrote a thesis on the festival, which was published by the Sorbonne University in 2017.

Ms Bernardin uses hand woven materials, transparency and nature in her collection and frequently uses Irish models to showcase her work.

She said: “I am in the initial stages of designing the dress, which will capture the magic of Lisdoonvarna and the flow of dancing in the ballrooms. My dress will reflect freedom of movement and liberty and will be inspired by fantasy, nature and the flowers of the Burren and will incorporate the fairy tale element of Lisdoonvarna” She said: “I have many Irish friends in Paris, including Patricia and have been fascinated by the more mature Irish woman’s dancing abilities, some of whom have been going to ballrooms since their tens.

I feel that Irish women manage to maintain an image of freshness,

lTALENTED: Kim Bernardin friendliness and liberty” Marcus White said: “I am ecstatic that the small village of ‘Lisdoonvarna’ could soon be catapulted into the international fashion world in Paris.

It’s a remarkable achievement and we are honoured that Ms Bernardin has found inspiration from the festival to create what will be a unique dress”.

The dress will be launched by

Ms Killeen at a mini Lisdoonvarna event, which will take place in Paris next year. Her aim is to link the ‘Town of Love with the City of love’ and to give Europeans a taste of Lisdoonvarna before they arrive in Ireland. Ms Killeen was inspired to organise the event after visiting Lisdoonvarna during the festival this year.

“The event will take place in Paris just before Lisdoonvarna 2019 and will give international singles from France or those travelling from further afield a taste of Lisdoonvarna. It will be interesting for them to combine two countries on a love trip and visit the city of love and romance on the road to Lisdoonvarna.”

The Paris event will include open air country and western dancing on the banks of the river Seine with an Irish music and cultural event in an Irish Cultural hub in the city.

This year’s festival has seen a surge in interest from the French market, following the publication of an article in the prestigious French Newspaper ‘Le Monde’. French Journalist Yves Eudes spent one week in Lisdoonvarna at the beginning of the festival and wrote an article entitled ‘Marriages d’Irlandaise’ which featured interviews with Matchmaker Willie Daly, his daughter Elsha and many festival revelers.

COP’N A FEEL IN LISDOONVARNA

Paul Ryder with Garda Paul Clancy and (back) Eddie McGuinness, Liam XB, Danny Beard, Candy Warhol and Kiki St Claire enjoying The Outing Festival at the Burren Storehouse, Lisdoonvarna at the weekend.

Photo by Eamon Ward

ENTERTAINMENT 21

THURSDAY, OCT 11 2018

‘Taste without waste’ at the Burren Food Fayre THE BURREN FOOD FAYRE “TASTE WITHOUT WASTE” 28TH OCTOBER 2018 THE PAVILLION, LISDOONVARNA

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CTOBER Bank Holiday Weekend will see the 7th year of the Burren Food Fayre. The theme for 2018 is #TasteWithoutWaste and it offers visitors two alternative Foraging Walks with Oonagh O’Dwyer of Wild Kitchen & Lisa Guinan of Irish Herbal Roots, as well as kids workshops and a chance to enjoy artisan food & craft stalls and attend some fascinating chef demonstrations. It is an opportunity for local producers to showcase their range of produce from the Burren region to national and international visitors.

Three local chefs and a London based Irish chef will be cooking up a storm on the day, in front of guests, food producers and visitors to

the Fayre. The cooking demos will commence at: 1pm – David Gouman “Between the Atlantic tides”: Learning to cook at Le Montauriol, Montauban in his native France, David spent time in the Caribbean and Central America before arriving in Ireland. He is now Head Chef at the Merriman Hotel in Kinvara where he is passionate about Atlantic cuisine and quality local produce.

2pm – Anna Haugh “Game On!”: After working at L’Ecrivain in Dublin, Anna moved to London where she worked for a number of prestigious restaurants including as head chef at Gordon Ramsey’s London House. She has appeared in three series of BBC’s Royal Recipes and is a regular on Saturday kitchen.

She is about to launch her own Irish inspired restaurant in Chelsea named “Myrtle” 3pm – Robbie McCauley “From the Sea and Shore”: Having worked in Michelin starred

restaurants such as Kilkenny’s Campagne and Edinburgh’s restaurant Number One Robbie McCauley has taken over the kitchen in Gregans Castle Hotel Ballyvaughan. His cooking is championing local producers and suppliers in a relaxed modern cooking style.

4pm – Niamh Fox “The Yearly Marrow-thon”: Niamh Fox set up Little Fox café in Ennistymon with her husband Sam Gleeson earlier this year after working in an impressive array of restaurants that include Ard Bia & Kai in Galway and Rochelle Canteen in London.

In addition to this year’s theme “Taste without waste” the Burren Food Fayre have engaged with environmental consultancy, Fifty Shades Greener, on a quest to “Green” the festival and reduce the Carbon Footprint and environmental impact to the community. This collaboration has been made possible with help from Clare County Council and their Greener Clare Initiative and funding received through the Local Agenda 21

environmental Partnership fund. The festival will seek to reduce and minimise all types of waste generated, ensure waste segregation, reduce packaging, abolish all single use plastic and increase public awareness and collaboration through signage, children upcycling workshops and information stalls on waste and recycling. n For further information & images contact Raquel Noboa on info@burrenecotourism.com

WEST IS BEST

STAR PERFORMANCE

HOW TO CATCH A STAR GLÓR | MONDAY 22ND 7PM (FAMILY SHOW) AND TUESDAY 23RD OCTOBER. (SCHOOLS’ SHOWS)

O

NCE there was a boy who was always looking up. He dreamt of having a star as a friend. This is the story of his adventure…

Branar Téatar do Pháistí, one of Ireland’s leading theatre companies for young audiences, presents their charming production, How To Catch A Star at glór this October, with a family performance on Monday 22nd and two schools’ performances on Tuesday 23rd October. Based on the beloved book by Oliver Jeffers and created by Branar with their signature style of story-telling, this show for audiences aged 4 and up reminds us all to follow our dreams. The production premiered at the Galway International Arts Festival in July 2017 with a sold out run of 18 performances, and this summer has enjoyed similar success at London’s Southbank Centre.

Under glór Arts Schools Partnership, (GASP), funded by The Arts Council and Creative Ire-

land, providing support for schools in County Clare to access arts performances at glór, a number of local schools will attend the Tuesday performances of How to Catch a Star with financial support from glór.

Directed by Marc Mac Lochlainn, this non-verbal adaptation combines a magical original score by Colm Mac Con Iomaire with beautiful puppets designed by Suse Reibisch, puppetry by Neasa Ní Chuanaigh and Grace Kiely and an evocative set designed by Maeve Clancy.

Director Marc says, “How To Catch A Star has been a favourite book of mine for years! It’s a book that I read to my children. They loved How To Catch A Star as kids, and I always wanted to make a stage adaptation. It a real honour for us to be allowed to adapt it and bring this amazing story to audiences in a new form. We’ve tried to re-create the experience of reading the story at night time, just before you go to bed.” He continues, “It’s always a privilege to be able to share our shows with children across Ireland.”

Audiences have responded to the production praising it as “really magical”, “ inspirational” and “amazing”, and reporting, “The kids were so engrossed - they really enjoyed it.”

Kilfenora Dramatic Society will present the classic ‘Playboy of the Western World’ this coming weekend, from Friday 12th – Sunday 14th inclusive, 8pm nightly in Kilfenora Hall. Tickets are available from Kilfenora Post Office, priced at €10. All support appreciated.

Christmas Parties In Clare

Oct 11, 2018

How to plan Secret Santa

I

T’S that wonderful time of the year again - well, not quite but we can talk about it now! You know that pre-holiday feeling when offices get a whole lot merrier and the office party is just around the corner. Since Christmas is a giving holiday, the gift exchange is a must. Secret Santa is known as the greatest joy-bearer - it is funny and amazing to surprise someone who usually is not on your holiday list.

If you don’t know how to organize or participate in this gift-giving game, here’s all you need to know!

December 7th & 14th The Elastic Band, December 8th Escapade and December 15th Traffic

DRAWING NAMES The old-fashioned way is writing names of all the participants on a piece of paper. If you are doing this with friends, names only are enough.

But, if we are talking about organizing a Secret Santa for your office, it would be a good idea to have people write down a few things about themselves (Paddy – book lover, huge Harry Potter fan, hurling adorer). That way, the person in charge of your gift would have a clue on what to buy.

When done, put all the bits of paper into a box or a hat (if it’s Christ-

massy decorated even better) and pass it around for all to draw one name – that name is the person they are getting a present for.

CHOOSING A GIFT If there is a wish list, stick to it, and all of your problems are solved. If not, you can try a few approaches. Maybe to check your co-worker’s social media and see if there is anything usable there - or else ask around.

FILLING IN THE DETAILS: The best thing about Secret Santa is that you’ll get a gift whether you’ve been good or bad during the previous 12 months. But that doesn’t mean this game doesn’t have some ground rules. The first one: set up a price limit! Secret Santa is symbolic, and its main goal is to get to know people a little better and to get closer with your co-workers. By selecting a happy medium price range, you are taking a lot of pressure off.

The second-one: setting a date! If you have a Christmas party, that is a great place for a gift exchange. But it can also be some quiet get together, or even over the lunch break.

l DO IT IN STYLE: Mr Ireland Wayne Walsh at the Inn At Dromoland’s Wedding Fair last weekend. The stunning wedding venue will also be the location of Christmas Party Nights this December, which will include delicious food, live music and an option for B&B. One night is already sold out so people are advised to get booking!

Photo by Julie Tillett

Oct 11, 2018

Christmas Parties In Clare

Seasons Greetings to all from

CARRYGERRY COUNTRY HOUSE & RESTAURANT December Set Menu

3 Course plus Tea & Coffee €32.00 (served all evening) À la Carte Menu also available (have a look at our menus on www.carrygerryhouse.com)

New Years Eve Bookings €45.00 Dinner Special

Christmas Parties / Private Dining

For larger groups in our courtyard setting with our outdoor open fire.

Group Lunch Bookings

From Tue - Sat€€27.00 For groups of over 15 persons

Christmas Parties In Clare

Oct 11, 2018

Santa rides into Co Clare

S

ANTA Claus has been taking up his annual residence at Aillwee Cave in Ballyvaughan especially to meet children and their families since The Millennium. He works very hard as he prepares this unique event.

Along with Mr Claus and his team of happy Elves, Santa ensures a very special personalised visit for each child. He arranges lots of exciting entertainment for all the family which continues right throughout each day. There is face painting, a puppet show and lots of carnival entertainment to be enjoyed.

Santa Elves are waiting with their LISTS of the boys and girls visiting every day.

They will guided everyone along the cave passageways singing Christmas Carols all the way. Santa Claus with his helper will meet and chat with each child and of course have a present for everyone. Mrs Claus is there to greet the grownup with a

glass of Hot Punch and a Mince Pie. Santa’s train is available for rides all day long which will take you to visit the Birds of Prey Centre. There you will enjoy a complimentary visit to meet a Snowy Owl or a Happy Harris Hawk! Scheduled half hour flying displays are at 11am, 12 noon, 1pm, 2pm & 3pm for your enjoyment. At The Birds of Prey Centre, Santa’s helper have prepared and stocked the Ultimate Christmas Shop with wonderful gift ideas for all.

Our Farm Shop elves can also make up a festive hamper jam packed to include all sorts of foodie treats with our own Award Winning Burren Gold Farmhouse Cheese as the centre piece.

A visit to Santa’s Workshop at Aillwee really is a unique, thrilling, fun filled day out for every generation of your family.

To make a booking Lo Call 1890 245593 or 065 7077036. Booking Office Open Mon-Fri 9.30am-5.30pm.

l REDDY FOR SOME FUN: Santa Claus is a big draw for the youngsters at Aillwee

Plan the perfect party

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8

Get planning – now! It may feel like you’re only just dusting off your onesie ready for the winter, but the best venues get booked up, fast. You don’t want to be left with only the dodgy local as an option.

Get out of the office - no one wants to spend their Christmas party in the cramped office break room, with a sad radio pumping out Cliff does Christmas in the corner.

Find a venue which is easy to get to. If you do have to stay in-house, choose a room away from your normal work area and make it festive.

Send an invite - Make it feel like a special event that people can look forward to.

Make your invite fun and eye-catching to really get people in the festive mood.

Decide on a Christmas party theme - No party is complete without a theme to tie it all together. Here’s your chance to get creative. Perhaps it’s Christmas past, or novelty hats. Or you could even plan an activity to really get everyone involved.

Include a competition - Whether it’s ‘best Christmas jumper’ or ‘best achievement of the year’, everyone loves a competition and it’s a fantastic ice-breaker. You could even take it a step further and include the competition as part of your theme.

Plan a great menu - Whatever you do, remember to include enough food for the day and night. Drinks will be flowing, so find out your budget and look for a menu which has something for everyone.

Treat everyone like guests to your own party - Greet them at the door and make sure they know where to put their coat and get a drink. This is a great way to put people at ease, especially if you’ve chosen an unusual venue.

Take lots of photos - Time to get the Christmas pudding sweaters out; Great for a giggle when sober January kicks in. You could even make a short video for real cringe-factor, just try and stay away from the photocopier…

Christmas Parties In Clare

Time to think about your Christmas Party venue...

Choose the option below to suit you.

Private Party Nights

Party Nights

Enjoy your own

Join in on our Open Party Nights.

Available on: December, Sat 8th Fri 14th, Sat 15th & Fri 21st

Private Party Night.

2 6 t h . D e c e m b e r F r i 2 n d , S a t 3 r d & S a t

€37

�

We offer: • Mulled Wine on arrival • Sumptuous 4 course Gourmet Dinner • Festive Decorations, Hats & Crackers

P.P.

Minimum numbers apply.

Don’t Drink & Drive Rates are nightly based on our classic rooms including Full Irish Breakfast Friday Single Occupancy from €70 Double/Twin from €90 Saturday Single Occupancy from €80 Double/Twin from €100

We offer: • Mulled Wine reception on arrival • Sumptuous 5 course Gourmet Dinner • Festive Decorations, Hats & Crackers • Dancing & DJ till late

€44

�

P.P.

Brendan O’Regan Restaurant Christmas Lunch (available from Friday 7th to Saturday 22nd December, served from 12.30pm to 2.30pm)

€25 per person Christmas Dinner (available in our Brendan O’Regan restaurant from Friday 8th to Saturday 23rd December from 6 – 9.15 pm)

€36 per person For further information contact: E n n i s , C o . C l a r e , I r e l a n d .

T : + 3 5 3 6 5 6 8 2 8 1 2 7 E : s a l e s @ o l d g r o u n d h o t e l . i e

Christmas Parties In Clare

Oct 11, 2018

Things are coming up Trump this Christmas TRUMP’S Bar and Restaurant will set the festive scene at Doonbeg Trump International this festive period for Christmas Party Nights.

From only €39.95 per person, you can enjoy a feast for all the senses with friends, family or work colleagues in the special five-star setting.

Christmas is the most exciting time of the year and is the perfect time for family and friends to spend quality time together and catch up.

Trump’s Bar & Restaurant are inviting you to join them for Christmas Party Nights.

A Christmas Party Night includes a four-course Christmas menu, Christmas crackers and party favours, and live music all for less than €40 a head.

Places are limited and the nights, running through December, are booking out fast already. To book please call 065 9055633 or email mflynn@ trumphotels.com

l FESTIVE FUN: The five-star Doonbeg Trump International in West Clare is a hive of activity over the festive period

AVAILABLE DATES

DECEMBER 2018 FRI. 7TH, SAT. 8TH, FRI. 14TH, SAT. 15TH

Trump’s Party Package 8pm till late Trump’s Party Package Includes;

Rum Hot Chocolate and Sweet Treats on Arrival 4 Course Festive Dinner ½ Bottle of Wine Party Favours Entertainment in the Party Zone Luxurious Cottage Accommodation Breakfast Hamper €150.00 Per Person Sharing

Premium package details available on request FOR INFORMATION

065 90 55600 doonbeg.sales@trumphotels.com CALL

EMAIL

www.trumphotels.com/ireland

Clare Echo - TD Party Nights.indd 1

08/10/2018 16:41

Dazzling festive line-up at Treacy’s

EXPERIENCE a magical journey through our Santa Land 2018. Meet our special elves who are hard at work preparing all toys for Santa’s grand trip around the world.

They will be your guide to show you the launch pad for Santa’s Sleigh all packed and ready for take off on Christmas Eve. See Rudolf and Comet’s stable, Mrs. Claus’ kitchen, the elves quarters and their workshop before you have a last minute chance to send your letter to Santa from the North Pole Post office. Your journey ends with an unforgettable visit to Santa in his magical cabin, get yourself a special present and have your picture taken on Santa’s own ‘elfie’ mirror. Early Bird prices available until the 11th of November.

Following a very successful 2017 Treacy’s West County Hotel’s Outdoor Christmas Markets returns on 15 & 16 December. A special tented village will display arts and crafts from up to forty stall holders offering customers perfect gift ideas for all the family. Over the weekend, we will have something for everyone including kid’s carousel, magician and cartoon characters and festive fare. Stall bookings are currently being taken.

CHRISTMAS PARTIES 2018 Our popular Christmas Party season promises to be the best ever. A night of comedy antics served up ONLY FOOLS AND HORSES style. Marlene & Boycie are hosting a Christmas Dinner, but will things go to plan with Del, as one of the Three Wise Men, Rodney as Arc Angel Gabriel and Trigger as an ELF! Uncle Albert is roaming around with Mistletoe in his cap? A “lovely jubbly” evening’s entertainment is sure to have you “Crying” with laughter.

This year’s Christmas Party Dance night will be on Friday 21st and set to the unmistakable hits of Rod Stewart. “Do ya think your Sexy” hits are sure to have Maggie Mae” and “Baby Jane” showing off their “Hot Legs’ to some “Young Turks” all “Sailing” away to “The Rythm of Their Hearts “. Tickets €39 includes reception, dinner, show and DJ til late.

Looking for Christmas gift ideas? Look no further! We have perfect gifts ideas for events, such as Nathan Carter and Brendan Grace tickets; Into the West Country Music Weekend, John Glenn & The Mainliner’s, Johnny McEvoy as well as top country acts Mike Denver, Mick Flavin and Derek Ryan. Music nightly in Boru’s Bar. For more details on dazzling Christmas line up, log on to www.treacyswestcounty.com.

28 COMMUNITY

Community ENNIS FANCY DRESS 2K The Annual Ennis Track Fancy Dress 2K Twilight Run/Walk takes place on Friday the 19th of October in Lee’s Road.

Now in its 9th year this event has become the one of the most eagerly anticipated events on the clubs calendar. This year it will be bigger and better than ever.

All are welcome. Join us to race, jog or walk through the forest in Lee’s Road under cover of darkness. Participants are invited to dress in Halloween costumes, with spot prizes for the most original and creative outfits.

On this night the forest comes alive with nocturnal creatures so beware of surprises that may lurk in the shadows!!! The forest trail will be illuminated with colourful lighting, giving it a truly magical atmosphere.

After the forest run there will be tea and refreshments for the adults and goody bags and glo sticks for the young athletes.

The party atmosphere will be enhanced by music from our very own “DJ Michael”.

Registration takes place Friday the 19th of October from 6:15pm at the clubhouse in Lees Road.

The price is €5 per person or €20 per family. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

CLOUGHLEIGH MEN’S SHED Men’s Sheds are a community-based, non-commercial organisation which are open to all men, where the primary activity is the provision of a safe, friendly, and inclusive environment. They are a space where the men are able to gather and/or work on meaningful projects at their own pace, in their own time and in the company of other men. So if you are interested in woodwork, gardening, metalwork or even just friendship, chat and a cup of tea we invite you to an open meeting to discuss this venture on Thursday October 18 in Cloughleigh Community Centre at 8pm.

GROUP MEDITATION Group Meditation Practice starting for this term in Rowan Tree Hostel from tonight, October 11 at 8pm (Upstairs Room).Drop in, No Charge, be still and know...

Contact 086 8552820 BOYS NATIONAL REUNION The 50th year reunion of the 1967/69 class of the Ennis Boys National took place last week.

Pictured (right) are four stalwarts from the Kilrush Road, Ennis, John O’Sullivan, William Crowley, Seanie Barry and Patrick Quinn.

NORTH/WEST CLARE LOCAL SOLUTION TO PLASTIC POLLUTION A free public information evening called ‘Local Solution to Plastic Pollution’ will take place at the Armada Hotel in Spanish Point on October 23.

The purpose of this event is to raise awareness in the community of Miltown Malbay, Spanish Point, Mullagh and Quilty, of the overuse of plastic.

Organisers will explore ways that each of us, individuals and businesses, can reduce our plastic usage, increase our recycling and so address the negative impact that plastic is having on our community and planet - before its too late.

The evening promises to be really interesting and informative with fascinating presentations on the night by Ken O’Sullivan filmmaker, underwater cameraman and presenter of RTE’S ‘Ireland’s Deep Atlantic’, Cillian Murphy of the Make Kilkee Plastic Free campaign, Theresa O’Donohoe, Environmental Activist, as well as a display of artwork using plastics and other materials found on local beaches.

The event is being organised in a completely voluntary capacity and organisers hope that other communities might be inspired to look for their own ‘local solution’.

Organiser Eileen O’Malley wishes to thank those who helped in organising the event including Ann Marie Meaney from Mullagh and Amy McDonnell-Dowling in the Armada Hotel.

THURSDAY, OCT 11 2018

CONTACT NEWSDESK

065 671 9021 news@clareecho.ie

EAST CLARE

l HITTING THE RIGHT NOTES: On October 4th, St Joseph’s Secondary School in Tulla hosted an all-star line-up of musicians, singers and dancers for a fundraising concert in aid of Sláinte an Chláir.

The programme was brainchild of the LCA class and their music teacher Aisling Behan. This student-organised concert brought together accomplished artists such as All-Ireland award winning musicians Sinéad Mulqueen and Dáire Mulhern along with talented students Aisling Clarke, Dearbhla Creaven, Daragh Leamy, Éabha McInerney, and the LCA music group. The mix of student including Daniel Barry (inset) and professional talent taking part led to lively and heart-warming performances for a Photos by Martin Connolly very worthy cause

CLARE MACRA Club members are meeting this Friday night in The Pumphouse Bar, Kilmurry at 9pm.

New members welcome especially those interested in the National Conference, Queen of the Land Festival, Public Speaking, Soccer, Welding or Stockjudging competitions. 086-8779329.

COMMUNITY 29

THURSDAY, OCT 11 2018 lDAY OUT FOR ALL: Enjoying the hurling action at Cusack Park over the weekend were (left) Clare great Ger Loughnane; (right) Huge Cratloe Supporters, the Deloughrey family travelled to Cusack Park on Sunday to cheer on their heroes; and (below) Anne and Mark Baker travelled from Kilkishen to cheer on O’Callaghan’s Mills

All photos by Martin Connolly

lLOVELY HURLING: Oisín and Peter Hennessy from Kilmaley outside Cusack Park at the weekend

Photo by Martin Connolly

lJUST THE LADS: Ballyea boys Ben McAllister, Cathal Connolly, Joseph Griffin, Darragh McMahon, Dan Casey and Conor Long

Photo by Martin Connolly

30 BUDGET TALK

THURSDAY, OCT 11 2018

Darach Honan

Trusted independent financial advisor with IPS Financial Advice

Six talking points from Budget 2019

B

UDGET 2019 was predicted to be the budget that would finally relieve the “squeezed middle”.

However, Budget 2019 spread the butter thinly and evenly.

The average person will come home with €5 more a week in their pocket, just like last year. Was this a palatable budget, sure, did it specifically target the squeezed middle, no.

So, what did change?

Income Tax and Universal Social Charge (USC) The standard income tax band threshold was increased by €750, just like last year. This means that you will pay the higher income tax rate of 40% on all income over €35,300. The Government also continued the trend of reducing the USC. The following changes were made to USC: l Widening the band to which the USC 2% rate applies from €19,372 to €19,874 l Reducing the 4.75% USC rate to 4.5% As you may have gathered from last week’s article USC is a real bugbear of mine. If USC was classed as it should be, income tax, then people would be able to get relief on this when contributing to their pensions or protection policies.

USC was introduced as a temporary measure in 2011, it is only now starting to be chipped away at. While it is going in the right direction, it is moving at a snail’s pace and as a result the “squeezed middle” remain very much squeezed. As you can see from the example below, the changes, which will cost the Government €284m, do not specifically target low to middle income earners and in fact higher income earners will see a bigger increase in their pay cheques.

Salary

Case 1 €35,000 Case 2 €70,000

Weekly Increase

€4 €5.50

Social Welfare Payments Pascal Donohue announced that all weekly social welfare payments will be increased by €5 per week. This comes into effect next March and will impact people in receipt of the Jobseeker’s Allowance, Disability Allowance, Carer’s Allowance and the State Pension. The Christmas bonus has been restored to a double payment for the first time since the crash.

In addition, qualified child payment paid to parents on social welfare will increase by €5.20 per week (over 12s) and €2.20 per week (under 12s). There will be a €25 increase in back-to-school clothing and footwear allowance rate.

Social welfare recipients are a group

that has benefitted so much that Pascal rebranded it as a “caring budget” . Many low to middle income earners will feel it was their turn for a break and that more care should have been afforded to them.

VAT Many in Clare will not welcome the increased rate of VAT in the tourism and hospitality sector. This rate is set to increase from 9% to 13.5% from January 2019 with the Government hoping this will generate tax revenue of €466m. This 9% rate was introduced in 2012 when there was 100,000 people employed in the hotel sector in rural Ireland. Since then, employment in this sector has increased to 165,000. Clare draws large numbers of tourists every year and one would hope that this VAT increase will not negatively affect the tourism trade here.

Capital Acquisitions Tax The CAT Group A tax-free threshold has been increased by €10,000 to €320,000. Group A broadly refers to a parent passing assets on directly to a child. While Fine Gael had expressed a desire to return the thresholds to their former glory an increase was not expected in this budget. It appears by including this minimal increase they may be just testing the waters for future increases.

Rainy Day Fund With the impact of Brexit on the Irish economy yet unknown, the Government has included a rainy-day fund. Donohue has targeted building a €1.5bn rainy day fund over the next three year by adding €500m annually. It is encouraging that the Government is looking past our immediate future and planning for a little down the road with regards to the rainy-day fund. It would be advisable for them to take a similar approach towards the ‘pension time bomb’ which is coming.

Missed Opportunity The bigger surprises in the Budget came from what was left out as opposed to what was included. The importance of addressing the effect we are having on our environment was hammered home by the UN report on climate change released on Monday. As a result, we were expecting an increase in carbon tax. Perhaps Pascal Donohue has been overly influenced by Kerry man Danny Healy Rae when he said in the Dail that only God controls the weather.

For anyone interested in knowing more, I am here to answer all your questions. If there is something I can help you with, please get in touch. Where an opinion is expressed, it is the personal opinion of the author only and not of the paper.

Darach@ipsfa.ie 087-1277155

Eoin Neylon

An inside look at Clare’s political spectrum

Dr Harty’s strong stance a new departure

P

ASCHAL Donohoe’s second budget carried no major surprises.

The only thing that caught people out in the run up was the discovery of almost €1.1 billion in additional corporation taxes with which the staggering €700m overspend in the Health budget was plugged. Although not the giveaway election budget of the style we saw towards the end of the Ahern era, there was a distinct feel of an election to the rhetoric during the speeches that were delivered in the wake of the budget. Similarly, the scene of Fine Gael backbenchers addressing the media from the plinth of Leinster House on the eve of the budget is not necessarily unusual.

However, the fact that the briefing was focused on them bashing opposition alternative budget proposals did turn a few heads.

At the time of writing, Míchéal Martin and Leo Varadkar are due to speak to one another about the future of the Confidence and Supply arrangement.

With the 3rd budget under the terms of the agreement delivered, there is little left to do bar pass the legislation that gives effect to the measures announced by the Minster for Finance during his speech.

This may prove easier said than done with Clare TD, Dr Michael Harty set to vote against the Government.

This is a new departure for the Kilmihil based GP as it will be the first time since his election in 2016 that he’ll have voted

against them in a crucial vote. To this point he had either voted with Fine Gael or abstained, as he did during the recent vote of no confidence in Housing Minister Eoghan Murphy.

He pointed to the lack of funding for the health service reforms, called Sláintecare, and the closure of rural post offices.

Fianna Fáil on the other hand are busy claiming credit for various housing measures, including a €300 million fund to building affordable housing and €1.25 billion to deliver 10,000 social housing units in 2019. Time will tell if these materialise, as the Government has missed all its housing targets to date.

They’re also claiming the increase in Direct Provision allowance as well as tax credit increases for the self-employed, pension and social welfare increases and the establishment of the Rainy Day Fund.

Assuming the Government passes the initial budget votes, then the process of passing all ancillary legislation will bring us to mid-November, including the passage of the Social Welfare Bill. FG may need the help of former FG, now Independent TD Michael Lowry to do so. At this point the C&S agreement will officially be over.

Varadkar will be looking for a 2-year extension to allow the minority Government to keep going until 2020. This will not go down well with the FF faithful who have been growing restless with the current arrangement. Martin will be keen to avoid an election this

side of Christmas. So an agreement to allow the Government to see out the conclusion of Brexit negotiations would be all the Fianna Fáil leader would be prepared to offer initially.

Negotiations are only beginning though. One thing is for sure, both major parties will be watching poll numbers with great interest in the aftermath of Budget 2019. At this stage though, Budget day is a hark back to a tradition that’s long since dead. Its tradition for tradition’s sake with almost all budget measures well flagged in the media well ahead of the Minister’s speech in Dáil Éireann.

Only one measure was not announced in advance of Budget Day; that of an ‘Exit Tax’ on ‘unrealised gains’ where a company migrates or moves assets offshore and outside the reach of Irish taxation. Set at a rate of 12.5%, this new tax will seek to safeguard the country from aggressive taxation policy from the US as well as certain EU states that are pushing for tax harmonisation.

At the end of the day, in the age of fiscal responsibility and with the threat of Brexit looming, this was as much of a giveaway budget as could be done ahead of probably the last before a General Election. If the talk in the Dáil is anything to go by, prepare to see printing presses going into overdrive after we ring in the New Year. If things go well, we may even have a Super Friday in May with Locals, Europeans and General Elections on the same day. Conversely, if talks don’t go well between Leo and Míchéal, we could have one next month. Canvass shoes at the ready, but not until after the crucial EU Summit in a fortnight’s time. Talks will likely only begin after that. Our ten election candidates will be glued to the news from there on; and have the printers on speed dial!

BUSINESS 31

THURSDAY, OCT 11 2018

BUSINESS

CONTACT US WE’RE ON FACEBOOK, TWITTER AND INSTAGRAM #CE

Crime Bureau talk on invoice fraud STUART HOLLY

editor@clareecho.ie

ed before it is too late.

Typically, criminals send emails to businesses purporting to be one of their legitimate suppliers with the supplier’s new bank account details and a request to change the account to one that will ultimately benefit the criminals. These requests can also come by way of letter or phone call.

Over recent months, high profile organisations including Dublin Zoo and Meath County Council made very substantial losses when duped by this invoice re-direct scam.

At the talk in Ennis, Gardaí will advise businesses on best practice measures they should take in order avoid falling foul of this scam.

ENNIS Chamber is inviting all business owners and accounts personnel across Co Clare to attend a Garda National Economic Crime Bureau Discussion on Invoice Fraud next Tuesday, October 16 at 6.15 pm at the Old Ground Hotel, Ennis.

The online scam - known as invoice redirect fraud - has cost Irish companies both big and small thousands of euro in recent months, as criminal gangs continue to target businesses across Ireland.

Clare Gardaí have arranged for Garda National Economic Crime Bureau (GNECB) to make a presentation to highlight the problem directly to business audiences in Co Clare. The Bureau’s presentation will focus on alerting business owners and their accounts staff to the While attendance at this event workings of this scam to help them is free, places must be reserved at: identify when they are being target- events@ennischamber.ie.

Shannon Chamber hosts Corporate Social Responsibility event THE expanse of corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives being undertaken by companies in the Shannon region, through direct financial support or employee hours expended, is quite staggering yet much of this activity is undertaken without fanfare but greatly enables so many charitable organisations to undertake projects they could not otherwise do.

Prompted by a request from a member company as to how it could contribute to the betterment of the community, Shannon Chamber engaged a Limerick Institute of Technology intern to research the expanse of CSR activity being undertaken by companies and the types of organisations they are assisting.

The results of this will be outlined at a special CSR event, organised

by Shannon Chamber being held at Shannon Airport on Thursday, 18 October from 6-8:30pm. The event, entitled: CSR, the Joys of Giving and Receiving’, will be presented by the inimitable Seamus Hennessy and involve speakers who are involved in the giving and receiving of support: businesses who undertake CSR and organisations benefiting from this financial or manhour support. These speakers include representatives from the Shannon Group plc., Element Six, HOMS Solicitors, Ei Electronics, ZAGG International, Junior Achievement Ireland, Milford Care Centre, and Clare Crusaders.

The event will also feature musical renditions from CSR recipients Sixmilebridge Folk Club and the Moyross Corpus Christi Choir, now famous for their wonderful performances, most especially their recent appearance on RTE’s Up for the Match programme.

As Shannon Chamber CEO Helen Downes explains: “We are delighted

to be hosting a dedicated CSR evening, in collaboration with Shannon Airport, to showcase some of the projects companies in this area are undertaking and how their ‘giving’ benefits the region. We see the benefits of an event of this nature as providing a platform whereby businesses can network with organisations seeking support. It will also give organisations seeking support from the business community the opportunity to give their elevator pitch , through having a ‘pop-up’ or advertising presence at the event, which is free of charge.

“We are excited about this event as we believe we have an amazing cohort of companies in this region whose workforces want to get involved in helping their communities and the businesses themselves want to give back.”

For more information or to register your attendance, log onto /www. shannonchamber.ie/events-training/ or call 061 475854

James shows a snip of class Kilrush barber wins award

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l CUT ABOVE THE REST: James collecting his award in Chicago where he won a guest artist award for the third year in a row for most creative hairstyles and (right) James in action during the event

WEST Clare barber is proving he’s all the style after taking the hair world by storm at the Chicago Beauty Show.

Things seem to be gelling very well for Kilrush-based James Coughlan at the moment - he was a cut above the competition at the USA event where he brushed aside his opponents to win a guest artist award for the third year in a row for the most creative hairstyles.

James’s snip of class was all the more impressive as he is the only Irish barber ever to compete in this show along with world-class artists. The show constantly attracts attention from some of the biggest names in the beauty industry who are sure to sit up and take notice of Jimi’s Barber Shop in Kilrush, James’s establishment.

And James’s transatlantic

love affair will continue next year. After achieving his third award, he has been approached

by The President of America’s Beauty Show - which is the largest in America. James will perform next March in front of the 50,000 people who attend America’s Beauty Show.

32 BUSINESS

THURSDAY, OCT 11 2018

BUSINESS CONTACT US WE’RE ON FACEBOOK, TWITTER AND INSTAGRAM #CE

‘Budget prepares local SME’s for Brexit’

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HAPPY VALENTINE'S

HE increase in the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation’s 2019 Budget to €950.2m will support regional growth and innovation, as well as preparing small and medium sized Clare business for the challenges of Brexit.

That’s according to Minister for Trade, Employment, Business, EU Digital Single Market & Data Protection Pat Breen.

Minister Breen said, “The additional €5 million in funding allocated to the 31 Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs), up 22% on 2018, reflects the Government’s recognition of the pivotal role of LEOs in developing regional enterprise and in building resilience against the effects of Brexit on micro-enterprises.”

“I recently had the pleasure of announcing the creation of 106 LEO supported new jobs in the Mid-West region, spread across nine small businesses, and every week I hear of yet another LEO supported enterprise emerging.

Many of these businesses I am pleased to say are being created here in County Clare. It is important that we support such entrepreneurship, assist them as they develop and grow, and help these businesses prepare for Brexit.

The additional €5 million will assist with such support.”

Minister Breen described Budget 2019 as a responsible budget that not only balanced the books for the first time in a decade, but also promoted real and sustainable increases in living standards.

“Budget 2019 has provided extra supports for young families and children by providing additional help for families accessing childcare, greater capitation funding for schools, further parental leave, increases in the Qualified Child Payment and the Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance rates, a further increase in social welfare payments of €5 per week, as well as a full restoration of the 100 percent Christmas bonus payment.

“The Government will also provide a further increase of €1.05 billion in health funding for 2019, bringing the health budget for next year to €17 billion - the highest level of health investment in the history of the State,” added the Clare Minister of State.

Outlining some of the positives to come from Budget 2019, he added, “An extra €35 million will be allocated to the tourism and hospitality sector to provide more targeted supports for the sector however, including €4.5 million for regional initiatives such as the Wild Atlantic Way, and nearly €10 million for the further development of our greenways.

It is imperative that we work to ensure our growing tourism here in Clare is supported by such funding.”

THURSDAY, OCT 11 2018

RECRUITMENT & APPOINTMENTS CONTACT US WE’RE ON FACEBOOK, TWITTER AND INSTAGRAM #CE

SEAT TO FILL? Be seen in The Clare Echo recruitment section. Call 065 671 9021 or email ciara.farrell@clareecho.ie.

Take the pain out of sharing news of your vacancy today.

BUSINESS 33

34 BUSINESS

THURSDAY, OCT 11 2018

BUSINESS CONTACT US WE’RE ON FACEBOOK, TWITTER AND INSTAGRAM #CE

lCUT OUT THE BULL, LADS: The bucking bronco gets the better of staff member Adrian Mangan and his dad Photos by Martin Connolly John

3 the magic number at Midwest THE Staff at Midwest Electrical Wholesale at the Quin Road Industrial Estate had a fun-packed day with visitors last Friday as they celebrated three years in business.

Customers not only availed of special promotions, spot prizes and finger food, some even tried their arm at the bucking bronco who by all accounts got the better of most participants.

Owner Ruairí Brennan moved to thank locals for their custom over the years and looks forward to welcoming their business for the years to come. Congratulations to all at Midwest Electrical!

lCUTENESS: Martina and Sé Brennan join the fun at Midwest Electrical last Friday Photo by Martin Connolly

lCOUNTER TALK: Ruairi Brennan and Colm O’Neill having a friendly chat at Midwest’s open day Photo by Martin Connolly

Motoring MOTORING EXPERT NEIL BRISCOE GIVES HIS VIEWS lWELL LAID-OUT: The Ceed has excellent front seats (supportive, but not pinchy, and with just the right amount of give) and a nicely laid-out dashboard

NO CEED OF DOUBT For real satisfaction try a new Kia Ceed estate FACTS & FIGURES: ROAD TEST: KIA CEED SW

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HE Kia Ceed SW has, for a long time, been the best-selling small estate car in Ireland.

Sadly, that’s not quite the boast that it might be in other countries as Irish car buyers, for whatever reason, tend to give estates a swerve.

We’ve fallen head-over-heels in love with SUVs, right enough, but the estate car still seems to leave us cold.

Still, that hasn’t stopped Kia effectively launching two new estate versions of the new Ceed.

The Proceed, which ditches its threedoor coupe layout in favour of a sleek quasi-estate body (think Mercedes CLA Shooting Brake but way more affordable) arrives later this year, but right now we’ve got the new Ceed SW, the bigger, more practical stretched Ceed.

How practical?

Very — that boot, when you load it to the windowline, measures a full 600-litres, which gives the Ceed SW the second-biggest boot in the class, beaten only by the Skoda Octavia Combi, and then only by handful of litres. 600-litres is, of course, something of an academic figure. What does it really mean in human terms?

Well, let’s take a look.

You swing the tailgate of the new Ceed SW up by hand, not with a more fashionable (but also expensive and heavy) electric mechanism. That’s fine, as the

lROOMY: Spacious boot

‘gate is well-balanced on its gas struts and feels light.

The retractable luggage cover can be, if you need to, removed and stowed under the boot floor, and with a little practice, that’s an operation you can actually carry out with one hand.

You’re then presented with a 600-litre cube of space (or more if you’re prepared to load above the windowline) which can swallow essentially everything you need.

As the father of two growing boys, I personally take great joy in driving a car like this, into which all of the things that they need and want for a long journey can now be flung, without having to play Luggage Tetris when trying to squeeze everything in.

When they were smaller, it was buggies and travel cots.

Nowadays it’s backpacks, jackets, and shoes that seem to double as canoes, so

big have they become. The Ceed swallows it all, and pretty effortlessly too.

That’s the joy of a good estate car, and it’s worth noting that the Kia Sportage SUV, also updated and also on sale now, has to give away 125-litres of boot space to the smaller, more affordable Ceed.

OK, so space in the back seat isn’t quite as good as that of the Sportage — in fact, it feels a touch tight by the standards of class, but it is at least adequate. Up front, things are much better.

The Ceed has excellent front seats (supportive, but not pinchy, and with just the right amount of give) and a nicely laid-out dashboard. It’s not, perhaps, the most inspiring interior around at the moment, but it does get the basics right.

The central touchscreen is simple and easy to use, and you won’t lament the fact that it’s a bit graphically simple, because you’ll just hook up your phone and use Apple CarPlay or Android Auto and ignore Kia’s home-grown software. Some of the plastics are a bit cheap, but things like the stitched leather on top of the dash look and feel nice, and give the Ceed’s interior a bit of a lift.

Up front, there’s Kia’s excellent 1.0-litre turbo three-cylinder petrol engine, which sings a happy song when you rev it, which has more than adequate grunt for day-today driving, and which all-but matches its diesel rivals for economy and emissions.

It’s a very good engine indeed, and is the pick of the litter in the new Ceed range.

To drive?

Well, it’s neither as sharp nor as incisive

Model tested: Kia Ceed SW 1.0 T-GDI K3 Pricing: €25,295 as tested; Ceed SW starts at €25,295.

Engine: 1.0-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol Transmission: six-speed automatic, front-wheel drive Body style: five-door compact estate CO2 emissions: 128g/km (Band B1, €270 per annum) Combined economy: 50.4mpg (5.6 litres/100km) Top speed: 190km/h 0-100km/h: 10.9 seconds Power: 120hp at 5,500rpm Torque: 172Nm at 2,500rpm Boot space: 600 litres (seats up); 1,694 litres (seats down) EuroNCAP rating: Not yet tested

as the new Ford Focus (nor even the old Ford Focus for that matter) but it’s not bad at all.

The steering feels pretty positive, in fact, and it’s a pleasant car to fling around a twisty road, but really it’s better at being driven more gently, and that is how it will most likely be driven in reality.

As it has done since the original model was launched in 2007, the Ceed SW will be there, in your local Kia showroom, as a constant reminder that no, you don’t actually need an SUV in your life and that yes, estate cars are actually better.

How many will take heed of that advice? Let’s see…

36 MOTORING

THURSDAY, OCT 11 2018

RENAULT’S EZ-ULTIMO CONCEPT IS A LIMO FOR SHARING

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T the Paris Motor Show, Groupe Renault unveiled EZ-Ultimo, its robo-vehicle concept, an autonomous, electric, connected, and shared mobility service solution offering a premium travel experience.

Available on-demand, for a single trip, for an hour or for a day, EZ-Ultimo caters to people looking to enhance a special moment through a private trip in a city, a premium tourist experience or businesses looking to offer premium journey services to its clients.

“As consumer trends change and people are enjoying ride-hailing services more and more, a new paradigm for mobility will emerge. Embodying this revolution, EZ-Ultimo offers a unique luxurious experience aboard a robo-vehicle that can be adapted depending on the service provider,” said Laurens van den Acker, SVP Corporate Design. “Inspired by contemporary architecture, and complete-

ly integrated in future smart cities, EZ-Ultimo will provide an exclusive experience for all.

With autonomous, electric and connected cars, we are entering a new exciting era in automotive design. Attractive and refined design, inspired by French style.”

EZ-Ultimo opens-up new arenas for Renault design. Because

it’s a robo-vehicle, the traveller can truly enjoy the journey in a space designed like a personal lounge, equipped with all the comfort and services needed to either relax or concentrate.

Welcoming and comfortable, EZ-Ultimo embodies the Renault brand’s EASY LIFE promise with easy access through a

wide automatic opening and a rotating seat on a slide that welcomes the passenger. For more privacy, passengers are hidden by glass facets on the upper part of the car. EZ-Ultimo’s refined interior, directly inspired by interior architecture, is tailor-made from upscale materials such as wood, marble and leather for a relaxing and enjoyable drive.

Equipped with level 4 autonomous driving technology, EZ-Ultimo covers a wide range of use cases.

This robo-vehicle is connected to infrastructures, can adapt to an urban environment, to the motorway or to a shuttle service on dedicated roads.

As mobility continues to evolve with connected and autonomous cars, Renault believes customers will seek more enriched on-board experiences, reinventing travel time, personally and professionally.

To embrace this revolution, the Group has invested in

Groupe Challenges and collaborated on a first concept: the Augmented Editorial Experience.

AEX is a realist immersive experience which combines personalized premium content, multi-media experiences and mobility - so as to turn travel time into a learning experience for future EZ-Ultimo passengers for instance.

EZ-Ultimo is the third in Renault’s family of concepts focusing on autonomous, electric, connected, and shared urban mobility services. EZ-Ultimo uses the same flexible platform of Renault’s on-demand shared robo-vehicle for ride-hailing EZ-Go, and the autonomous last-mile urban delivery solution, EZ-Pro. Inspired by the same ambition to bring sustainable mobility to all, this trilogy of 100 per cent electric, autonomous and connected vehicles present an expanded vision for a future-friendly shared mobility system.

Al Hayes Motors Ennis MASSIVE DISCOUNT ON 300 USED CARS

All cars can be viewed on our website www.alhayesmotors.com

Phone: 065 68 22400

181, VW, POLO, 1.0 PETROL, €14000

181, SKODA, FABIA, 1.0 PETROL, €13500

181, SKODA, OCTAVIA, 1.6TDI, €20000

181, VW, GOLF, 1.6TDI, €22000

171, SKODA, FABIA, 1.0 PETROL, €11500

181, SKODA, SUPERB, 1.6TDI, €25500

181, VW, PASSAT, 1.6TDI, €27500

10, VW, POLO, 1.2 PETROL, €6500

08, VW, GOLF, 1.4 PETROL, €4950

12, SKODA, OCTAVIA, 1.6TDI, €8500

08, SKODA, OCTAVIA, 1.9TDI, €3500

131, VW, JETTA, 1.6TDI, €11000

151, VW, PASSAT, 1.6TDI, €13500

162, SKODA, OCTAVIA, 1.6TDI, €16500

152, SKODA, FABIA, 1.0 PETROL, €9950

151, HONDA, CIVIC, 1.6 DIESEL, €13500

SELECT CHOICE OF 16 3 years warranty, t&c's apply 065 6822400 Damien 087 2368841 Ronan 087 9031373 Noel 086 1894374

www.alhayesmotors.com

Property

Beautiful homes all over the County UNLOCK YOUR DREAM

PRIME LOCATION Ideal family home OPEN VIEWING: SAT OCT 13TH: 10.30AM TO 11AM 45 ABBEY COURT, LIMERICK ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE, V95 E76R

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BBEY COURT is a prime residential location situated just off the main Limerick Road and only 800m approx. from the By-Pass Interchange. Ideally located within walking distance of Ennis town centre and close to schools, supermarkets and all the amenities now afforded by Ennis.

No. 45 Abbey Court is a well finished, spacious, cleverly laid-out four bedroomed semi-detached property.

On the ground floor there is a porch, entrance hall, living room, double bedroom, open-plan kitchen/dining area and a utility room. On the first floor there are 3 bedrooms (all with fitted wardrobes, one with en-suite) and a bathroom.

Externally there is a tarmacadam driveway to the front with low maintenance gravelled shrubbery beds to

€215,000

either side. The back garden is mainly gravelled with shrubbery beds and a paved patio area. This really is a superb family home in an extremely convenient location - viewing is a must.

120sq.m (1,291.2 sq.ft) approx.

BER C3 BER No. 111099651 Contact: Tiernan O’Malley, Sherry FitzGerald McMahon Tel: 065 686 7866

38 LISSANISKA, LAHINCH ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE, V95 T4A8

€164,500

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UMBER 38 Lissaniska is a bright and spacious 3 bedroom mid-terraced home located in this popular cul de sac development.

It is within walking distance of Ennis Town Centre a two minute drive to the N85 Link road that connects with the M18 motorway.

It also has the benefit of being within walking distance of the Lees Road sports facility.

Accommodation on the ground floor comprises an entrance hall, living room and an open-plan kitchen/dining area.

On the first floor there are two double bedrooms (one of which has an en-suite), a single bedroom and a bathroom. The property also has the benefit of a fully floored attic with velux window, power-points and a light.

Externally there is a cobble-locked driveway to the front, the back garden is gravelled with block-wall boundaries and

mulched shurbbery beds at both sides.

Viewing of this fine home is highly recommended.

87.9 sq.M. (925 sq.Ft.) approx.

BER No. 111351094 Contact: Tiernan O’Malley, Sherry FitzGerald McMahon Tel: 065 686 7866

PROPERTY 39

THURSDAY, OCT 11 2018

Private garden € 185,000

28 THE CRESCENT, LIFFORD, ENNIS

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OCATED in the very popular and much sought after cul de sac of the Crescent, Conveniently located in Lifford and within walking distance of all town amenities. This mature 4 bedroom semi detached home is finished to an excellent standard throughout with the added advantage of private rear gardens and patio (not overlooked) and this would

truly make an ideal family/first time buyer/ retirement home in the heart of Ennis town centre. Viewing is highly recommended and by strict appointment with sole selling agents.

Contact: Cormac O’Sullivan DNG O’Sullivan Hurley Tel: 065 - 6840200

Stunning location “RATHERR”, CAHERCALLA ROAD, ENNIS

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OCATED in the very exclusive and much sought after Cahercalla Road is this stunning 3 Bedroom detached bungalow set on a magnificent tree lined and mature site within walking distance of all town amenities and easy access to the M18 motorway. Noted as one of Ennis` most affluent residential areas this home offers a rare opportunity for those seeking the ultimate in residential living in

€329,000

a bright, spacious and well proportioned bungalow and truly this is one to be viewed to appreciate what`s on offer. Viewing is strictly by prior appointment with sole selling agents.

PSL No. 002295 Contact: Cormac O’Sullivan DNG O’Sullivan Hurley Tel: 065 - 6840200

Launching open showhouse

EXCLUSIVE AREA

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ICTORIA COURT is an exclusive development of detached homes just off the Cusack Road in one of the most sought after areas in Ennis town.

Cusack Road is a superb location within minutes walk of Ennis town centre, Ennis Mid Western Hospital, Ennis Swimming and Leisure Complex, Colaiste Muire Secondary School, Maoin Cheoil an Chlair Music School and all amenities afforded to the town.

There is quick access onto the Ennis bypass from the Lahinch Road onto the M17 & M18 to Shannon, Limerick and Galway.

This fine home is ideally located to the rear of the development in a quiet cul de

sac overlooking the river to the rear.

The accommodation is bright and spacious with well-proportioned rooms with the ground floor accommodation including living room, kitchen/breakfast room, dining room, utility, ground floor bedroom/ study.

There are three good sized rooms on the first floor, one of which is en-suite and a separate family bathroom. Finishes including newly fitted windows and doors, new gas boiler, tiled bathrooms, top quality fittings throughout and much more.

Further details from sole selling agent Helen Gallery Auctioneers at 086 250 4671.

THE opening date has been announced for the awaited showhouse in Park View, Clarecastle and Helen Gallery Auctioneers and M Fitzgibbon Contractors are inviting families to come and have a look at these superb homes and partake in an afternoon of fun with a live broadcast from Clare FM to launch this new development of 2- and 3-Bedroom Bungalows.

“We wanted to show people that this area is really family friendly and celebrate the new showhouse opening at Park View in Clarecastle.

These ten homes in Park View offer space and warmth in three different stylish designs and are situated facing a large open green space, ideal for families. Earning the A3 BER rating, these energy efficient homes will reduce your energy consumption and save you lots of money.

M. Fitzgibbon Contractors started construction on these new homes following the high demand for the hugely successful, sold out, development of bungalows in Haggart View. M Fitzgibbon Contractors are also currently building 3 bedroom semi-detached homes in Orchard View and 4 bedroom semi-detached homes in Meadow View where there are some units still available.

The exterior finish and interior fittings for all of these developments are second to none as they partner with only the best including Conor Whelan Fitted Furniture, Brian Pyne Tiles, Best Price Tiles, FHB, James O Sullivan Painter & Decorator and Fairgreen Stoves.

The showhouse opening is from 2 pm until 6 pm on Saturday 27th October in Park View, Clarecastle. All are welcome.

EchoSport Cratloe double dream lives on

JAMES MULVIHILL

SENIOR HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP SEMI FINALS ROUND-UP

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CRATLOE: 1-14 KILMALEY: 0-16

RATLOE advanced to the final for the first time since 2014 following a tense battle with Kilmaley in Cusack Park on Sunday. Rian Considine was impressive for the winners scoring 1-04 from play but Cratloe hit 19 wides and their shooting will need to improve if they are to win their third Championship on October 21 against Ballyea. The 2014 Champions are still on course for a double as they take on Miltown Malbay in the semi-finals of the football this weekend.

Cratloe got going on the front foot with five of the first six points going to Podge and Sean Collins along with Conor McGrath and Cathal McInerney (two) however Michael O’Malley, Cian Moloney and Daire Keane steadied the ship to keep Kilmaley in touch. Cratloe continued to apply pressure and Rian Considine and Sean Collins chipped in with points before Tom O’Rourke cut the gap to two points. Cratloe scored the last two points of the half through Billy Connors (65), and a long range free from Shane Gleeson to leave the score at the interval 0-09 to 0-05 in favour of Cratloe.

Kilmaley, the 2017 Intermediate Champions, were starting to flex their muscles as they grew into the second half and an inspirational point from Michael O’Malley reduced Cratloe’s lead to just two points before the South-East Clare men scored the only goal of this contest thanks to great teamwork involving Cathal McInerney and David Collins who delivered a perfect cross-field ball to find Considine in space who made no mistake in dispatching past Brian O’Loughlin. Kilmaley hit back with three points through Cian Moloney (65), Michael O’Neill and Sean O’Loughlin and made Cratloe work hard to retain the lead. With just a point in it, Kilmaley couldn’t get the equalising score to force this game into extra time.

Cratloe: Gearoid Ryan; Martin Oige Murphy, Michael Hawes, Enda Boyce; Shane O’Leary, Diarmuid Ryan, Shane Gleeson (0-1f); Podge Collins (0-1), Liam Markham; David Collins (0-1), Sean Collins (0-2), Billy Connors (0-1, 65); Cathal McInerney (0-2), Conor McGrath (0-2), Rian Considine (1-4). Sub: Sean Chaplin for Boyce (60 mins).

Kilmaley: Brian O’Loughlin; Eoin Enright, Colin McGuane, Bradley Higgins; Aidan McGuane, Conor Cleary, Kenneth Kennedy; Cathal Darcy, Sean Kennedy; Sean O’Loughlin (0-3), Michael O’Malley (0-4), Tom O’Rourke (0-1); Cian Moloney (0-3,1f,1 65), Michael O’Neill (0-2), Daire Keane (0-2). Subs: Eamon Bracken (0-1) for O’Rourke (44 mins), Pauric McNamara for S. Kennedy (48 mins), Aidan Kennedy for Moloney (52 mins), John Clohessy for McGuane (59).

Referee: Rory McGann (Newmarket-on-Fergus).

Kelly leads Ballyea to final

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BALLYEA: 1-21 O’CALLAGHAN’S MILLS: 1-17

ALLYEA are preparing for their second final in three seasons after a hard-fought victory over O’Callaghan’s Mills on Saturday. Tony Kelly was in fantastic form scoring 1-9 from play while Jack Browne was very impressive at centre back.

Ballyea’s strong early start was quelled by The Mills when they scored the opening goal through U21 county star Gary Cooney who dispatched past Barry Coote after a long delivery from Pat Donnellan, to put them two points ahead. Ballyea responded with a scoring flurry which included a point from Tadgh Lynch and two from Tony Kelly to leave the score at 1-04 to 0-07 after an intense opening 14 minutes. More tit for tat scoring followed with the next six points shared by the sides before Ballyea took the lead when Tony Kelly broke onto

l FINAL COUNTDOWN: (above) Rian Considine celebrates with teammate Cathal McInerney after scoring Cratloe’s crucial goal while (below) Tony Kelly yet again ran the show as Ballyea beat O’Callaghan’s Mills at Cusack Park Photos by Martin Connolly

a loose ball before hitting a rasper of a shot which gave Killian Nugent no chance of saving. O’Callaghan’s Mills stayed in touch with two points from Sean Cotter to leave the score at the interval 1-12 to 1-09 in favour of Ballyea.

O’Callaghan’s Mills started the second half with more intent scoring the opening two points through Aidan O’Gorman and Gary Cooney but Ballyea kept responding and two points through Niall Deasy (free) and Tony Kelly kept them in front.

Gary Cooney and Pearse Lillis shared the next two points before the impressive Kelly extended Ballyea’s lead to four. The Mills scored three of the next four thanks to Jacob Loughnane (free), Aidan Fawl and Sean Cotter to leave the score at 1-17 to 1-15 after 47 minutes. Niall Deasy and Jacob Loughnane shared the next four points from frees and Ballyea led by two heading into added time. The 2016 champs sealed their place in the final thanks to scores by Kelly and sub Ryan Griffin.

Ballyea: Barry Coote; Joe Neylon, Brian Carraig, Brandon O’Connell; James Murphy, Jack Browne, Aonghus Keane; Tadgh Lynch (0-1), Tony Kelly (1-9); Pearse Lillis (0-1), Niall Deasy (0-7,5fs), Cillian Brennan; Martin O’Leary (0-1), Gary Brennan, Eoghan Donnellan (0-1).Subs: Ryan Griffin (0-1) for Donnellan (56 mins), David Sheehan for O’Leary (60 mins), Brian Casey for O’Connell (60 mins).

O’Callaghan’s Mills: Killian Nugent; Niall Donovan, Conor Cooney, Gerry Cooney; Michael McGrath, Aidan Fawl (0-1), Ciaran Cooney; Patrick Donnellan (0-1), Jacob Loughnane (0-7,6fs); Sean O’Gorman, Bryan Donnellan (0-1), Gary Cooney (1-2); John Cooney (0-1), Sean Cotter (0-3), Aidan O’Gorman (0-1). Subs: Colin Crehan for Donovan (H/T), Mark Pewter for J. Cooney (44), Kevin O’Callaghan for Cotter (60 mins).

Referee: Wayne King (St. Josephs).

CLARE SHC SEMI FINALS: Ballyea 1-21 O’C Mills 1-17; Cratloe 1-14 Kilmaley 0-16. *final set for October 21 SENIOR B FINAL: Crusheen 0-18 Tulla 0-16 CLARE IHC SEMI FINALS: Feakle 2-21 Scariff 0-12; Tubber 3-14 Corofin 1-10 *Winners of final to gain promotion to the senior ranks

SPORT 41

THURSDAY, OCT 11 2018 CAMOGIE Intermediate Fr Liam Murray Cup Final Kilkishen/Bodyke 2-10 St Joseph’s 2-6

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WO early goals for St. Joseph’s would have led anyone to believe that these dual players were on their way to senior status matching their football success of just a fortnight previous, but finding themselves two points behind at half time meant Kilkishen Bodyke weren’t settling for intermediate level any longer.

Kate Lynch registered the first point of the day for the East Clare amalgamation, but Ciara Duggan for Joseph’s replied snappy from Edel McNamara’s puck out. Kilkishen’s Caoimhe Kelly converted a free but within minutes Joseph’s found themselves raising the green flag not once but twice, firstly midfielder Síofra Ní Chonaill got a classic flick to a low free from Duggan to find the back of the net and exactly one minute later Ní Chonaill found herself

unmarked again to power past McNamara for the second time within 60 seconds.

It looked like Joseph’s would excel from this brilliant start but young Cara Close from Kilkishen found the sliotar in her hand only yards from Karen McMahon Joseph’s goalkeeper and simply replied diligently to answer the two previous blows.

Caoimhe Kelly and Eilís Whitney dominated the remainder of the first half with Kelly converting three frees as well as a ‘65, while Whitney popped two points over in succession. Duggan for the maroon and white girls sliced a free over the bar and scored another from a difficult angle to leave half time score Kilkishen Bodyke 1-8, Joseph’s 2-3.

Poor scoring in the second half saw Kilkishen’s Kelly again raising the white flag twice from well converted frees and the same from Joseph’s, their first free converted by Aisling Hannon and second by Aisling McMahon with a third point coming from centre forward Sarah

Hoey from play.

It looked like Kilkishen Bodyke were on top by the narrowest of margins as the clock closed in on this intermediate county final but Shauna Doyle from Bodyke ploughed through a strong Joseph’s defense to rattle the back of their net ensuring the East Clare amalgamation would contest the senior championship in 2019, final score Kilkishen/Bodyke 2-10 St Jospehs 2-6.

Kilkishen/Bodye: Edel McNamara, Orla McInerney, Róisín Minogue (Joint Captain), Nollaig Baker, Ava Quigley, Alannah Ryan, Ciara Ryan, Eilís Whitney, Caoimhe Kelly, Niamh O’Brien, Kate Lynch (Joint Captain), Siobhán Lenihan, Cara Close, Kate O’Gorman, Shauna Doyle, St. Josephs: Karen McMahon, Orla Moloney, Megan O’Brien, Kate Dillon, Eimear Casey (Vice Captain), Chloe Towey, Aisling Hannon, Orlaith Lynch, Síofra Ní Chonaill, Erinn Hennessy, Sarah Hoey, Ciara Guilfoyle, Ciara Duggan, Hannah Meaney, Laura Hayes, Subs: Meadhbh O’Connor (for Dillon), Aisling McMahon (for Hennessy), Fiona Tuohy (for Hayes), Referee: Aaron Hogg

l COUNTY CHAMPIONS: Proudly holding the Fr Liam Murray Perpetual Cup outside Cusack Park at the weekend are Kate O’Gorman, Ciara Ryan and Joanne O’Connor of Kilkishen-Bodyke Photo by Martin Connolly

Ball position: Understand Padraig McGrath the angle of attack...

GOLF ANALYSIS The Scorecard PGA Golf Professional

I

BRIEFLY discussed the importance of your ball position in one of my first articles, however it’s such an important fundamental, I’m going to expand and discuss the relationship it has with the angle of attack of the clubhead.

Not all golfers understand the importance of ball position and where exactly they need to play each individual club to achieve their optimum ball flight and launch angle.

A common problem I’m noticing is golfers play the ball either too far forward or back in their stance and use the same ball position for the majority of their golf clubs. When I notice a client’s ball position is a long way forward or back in their stance, I’m often shocked by where they think it is compared to where it actually is. I often end up having to take a photo to prove it to them. Therefore the only way of knowing for sure where yours is, try using some alignment sticks to double check if it is indeed where you believe it is.

In particular with shorter irons, I see golfers’ ball position is generally too far forward. You simply can not compress a golf ball properly with a short iron on the down swing if you don’t play the ball closer to the centre of your stance. When chipping around the green with lofted wedges, look firstly at your lie; if it’s poor, play the ball back in your stance and hit steeper down on the ball, but if you have a good lie then you don’t need to be as steep.

The two images of the golfer chipping below shows on the left his angle of attack will be shallow, compared to the steeper strike he will achieve on the right with the ball played closer to his back foot.

Every club in your golf bag needs to be played from a different position and not understanding this is one of the main reasons I

see so many inconsistent golf shots. For instance your shorter, more lofted clubs are always played further back in your stance and as you go towards the driver your ball position needs to move forward towards your front foot. When hitting think first about two important aspects of each club; (a) the loft of the clubhead and (b) length of the club.

When you use a shorter more lofted club your angle of attack should be steeper, where as when you use a longer less lofted club you then need a shallower angle of attack. The image below shows a shallower angle of attack on the left compared to a steeper one on the right.

The modern large 460cc drivers are designed and work best when they are hit slightly on the upswing, in fact golfers who hit down on the ball with these modern 460cc drivers will find their fairway woods generally go as far if not further than their driver. This is mainly because if you hit steep with these drivers the ball just pops up in the air and you get exaggerated backspin on the ball, which actually causes you to lose distance and you would be better off hitting a three wood until you learn how to hit the

#PadraigKnowsGolf

in association with

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ball more on the upswing.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with your own ball postion and if you are not sure here, next time your at the practice ground try out different ball positions from different lies and see if you can improve on your current ball positions.

Remembering if your golf ball isn’t lying great try playing the ball slight-

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ly back in your stance and see how a steeper angle of attack will aid in getting the ball out of this awkward lie. The image (left) gives you an idea of where your ball position should be with every club, however every golfer is slightly different therefore don’t be afraid to experiment slightly forward and back from these positions to see where is the best position for you.

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46 CROSSWORD/HOROSCOPES

THURSDAY, OCT 11 2018

Your Horoscopes Oct 11 COOL your jets as the week begins -- competitively speaking, that is. You need to put the proverbial ‘other guy’ first on Monday if you want to keep things copacetic. On Tuesday and Wednesday, expect to become lost in your own thoughts. You’ve got a lot on your mind right now, but a little opportune introversion could be just what you need.

Taurus

Gemini

LOOK for some unexpected fun in your routine as the week begins. Monday might seem dull and dreary, but count on friends and coworkers to come to the rescue. On Tuesday and Wednesday, moodiness might get the better of you if you’re not careful. Make sure you keep a lid on any overly intense emotions (especially jealousy and possessiveness).

FOLLOW-THROUGH is overrated as this week begins. You’ve got so much energy and creativity on Monday that you need to devote yourself to starting projects and initiating action.

Let somebody else sort out the details later. On Tuesday and Wednesday, count on the action to slow down just a bit, but that’s only because you’re more interested in observing -and analyzing -- than acting right now.

Cancer

Leo

Virgo

THE start of your week might not go quite as smoothly as you’d like. Watch for conflict on Monday (especially at home) and use your natural empathy to help keep the peace. On Tuesday and Wednesday, expect an emotional storm front to roll in. While flaring passions can be a good thing, you’ll have a tough time making decisions (and, of course, sticking with them).

PEOPLE will be falling all over themselves to agree with you as the week begins. You’ve got the charm (and the energy) on Monday to start a mass movement -- or even just get a small but important project started. On Tuesday and Wednesday, look beneath the surface. You can trust your intuition to uncover other’s true motivations.

EXPECT an unusual surge of impulsiveness as the week begins. You’ll want to splash out extravagantly on Monday -- but don’t be surprised if you can’t decide exactly how or when. On Tuesday and Wednesday, give your curiosity free rein. That intellectual inquisitiveness can help you learn a lot from others right now.

Libra

Scorpio

Sagittarius

Capricorn

Aquarius

Pisces

EVERY week should begin like this! You’re full of confidence and charm on Monday and people just can’t get enough of you. Flirt with abandon. On Tuesday and Wednesday, expect to feel some unusual stinginess. But you can put that financial focus to good use -- take time out to reassess your long-term plans and budgets.

GET something started as the week begins! You’re full of initiative and energy on Monday, so it’s a perfect time to kick off a new project. On Tuesday and Wednesday, you’ll have an unusual mastery of the details. Use this super-powered perspective to organize your priorities and lay out ambitious plans.

1/1

Aries

DON’T hesitate to kick around ideas as the week begins.

You’ll find that you’re exceptionally philosophical and insightful on Monday, which is the perfect match for your introverted, introspective mood. On Tuesday and Wednesday, your magnetic personality will win you admiration and affection. Use that burst of popularity to your advantage.

TRY something new as your week begins. Your intellectual curiosity and natural friendliness should lead you to new people -- and new experiences -- on Monday. On Tuesday and Wednesday, expect to shift into lower gear, both emotionally and mentally. You might need some time to yourself right now to sort out your long-term goals and ambitions.

The Clare Echo Crossword

ACROSS 1 Container for plunder (4) 3 Social worker entering factory with a Spanish scarf (8) 9 Company hurts trainers (7) 10 Composure of model one’s accepted (5) 11 Gun right behind toboggan (5) 12 Settled, secure and free (6) 14 Poles are small traps (6) 16 A lord, we hear, is to show up (6) 19 Show off in Venice (6) 21 Ordering a pint is not appropriate (5) 24 Bird, for example?

About time! (5) 25 Some schooling for a hundred girls (7) 26 Linnets disturbed by good little bird (8)

YOU must be doing something right, because everybody loves you as the week begins. Make your desires known on Monday and don’t be surprised if others help you see those wishes fulfilled. On Tuesday and Wednesday, your usual easygoing nature might give way to moodiness if you’re not careful. Slow down and be patient with yourself, even if that means taking time out for quiet introspection.

WATCH out for problems in a partnership as the week begins. You need to keep an eye out for conflicting details and demands on Monday -- you’re the one who has to strike the balance. On Tuesday and Wednesday, don’t hesitate to stand up for yourself, especially in legal and financial matters.

27 Young ladies taken in by prodigal son (4) DOWN 1 One isn’t fit to be on it (4,4) 2 Resonant sound made by family group? Good! (5) 4 A bus broken down over the road? How ridiculous! (6) 5 Wrong letters delivered to spy? (5) 6 Time to relax and lie around? Certainly! (7) 7 A long time for some wage slaves (4) 8 Financial liability could be explosive (6) 13 Demonstrations in favour of trials (8) 15 Starved in order to get publicity (7) 17 First mate crossing border (6) 18 Warner Bros’ first canoe up the creek (6)

20 Neat trail, oddly enough, in part of South Africa (5) 22 Astray on the ocean

(2,3) 23 Spiteful soldiers seizing leader in army (4)

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

QUIZ 47

THURSDAY, OCT 11 2018

The Clare Echo Quiz COUNTY CLARE TRIVIA

population of Clare pre-famOlympic 800m winner and world 1The ine was: 6 record holder David Rushida was pictured wearing a Clare jersey at

2

which school? Ennistymon Vocational School, St Caimin’s or St Joseph’s, Spanish Point

Tulla, Newmarket on Fergus, Carron

The St Peter & St Paul Cathedral 7 in Ennis is the 11th tallest spire in Ireland. But how tall is it?

Who said of The Burren: “It is 3 a country where there is not enough water to drown a man,

wood enough to hang one, nor earth enough to bury him.”

Oliver Cromwell, Edmund Ludlow, Boris Johnson

226ft, 326ft, 426ft

Moneypoint power station chim8 neys are 715ft tall. Where does it rank in terms of Ireland’s tallest structures?

First, Third, Fifth

Michael “Sonnie” Murphy, who The Shannon hydroelectric 4 competed in the 3,000m Stee9 scheme cost the equivalent to plechase at the 1932 Olympics was one fifth of the Irish state’s annual from

Ennis, Clarecastle, Kilnaboy

Doonbeg, Killaloe, Tuamgraney

ANSWERS

budget, which was

£5.2m, £15.2m, £25.2m

Patrick Joseph “Pat” McDonald 5 who won a gold medal in the 1920 Which area in Clare is home to Olympics for shotput and worked as 10 the Slow Worm, one of Irea traffic cop in Times Square, was land’s only two reptiles. born in:

l QUESTION 8: Moneypoint power station chimneys are 715ft tall. Where does it rank in terms of Ireland’s tallest structures?

Doonbeg dunes, The Burren, Shannon Estuary

6. Ennistymon Vocational School 7. 226ft 8. Fifth 9. £5.2m 10. The Burren

Mooghaun Hill-Fort is the site of a prehistoric walled village and is regarded as the oldest ring fort of its kind in Europe. Is it in:

1. 212,000 2. Newmarket-on-Fergus 3. Edmund Ludlow 4. Kilnaboy 5. Doonbeg

94,000, 192,000, 212,000

OLD IMAGES OF COUNTY CLARE

Bindon Street, Ennis.

Image NLI.ie / Collection: Lawrence Photograph Collection