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Famous goats of Ennis rehomed
T
HERE has been a lot of media interest from all over the country recently about a herd of 22 goats roaming the Rocky Road area of Ennis. The Clare Echo can exclusively reveal that the goats have now been successfully rehomed with a farmer in County Louth. Councillor Johnny Flynn said, ‘this farmer I understand is going to let them graze and roam on his holding, and multiply. The herd will be kept together and their welfare will be looked after. It is very good news.’ Cllr Flynn went on to say, ‘This farmer came forward. I would have had maybe a half a dozen contacts from people all over
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17 May 2018
GOOD QUACK
STUART HOLLY editor@clareecho.ie
the country, from as far away as Wexford, as a result of the media coverage which was great. I understand that there might have been up to 100 contacts made with Clare County Council on this issue. Some people when they heard you needed to have an animal herd number, and there had to be tagging of the animals, their vaccinations and so forth, it proved cumbersome and also the majority of the offers I understand would have resulted in the herd being broken up. So it appears as if this solution was the best one form an animal welfare point of view, and also to deal with the serious Road Traffic Issues and damage to private property that was resulting in such a large herd of wild goats roaming around on very busy residential estates and roads.’ ‘They will probably be shouting for Louth in the Leinster Championship instead of Clare in the Munster Championship,’ Cllr Flynn kidded.
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Jamie Sheeran having fun with a Duck near the Club Bridge Ennis. Photo by Martin Connolly
2 NEWS
THURSDAY, MAY 17 2018
Index CRAZY ABOUT CLARE
4
ROAD TO SOMEWHERE
6
DNA MYSTERY SOLVED
9
Inside The Clare Echo FEATURE: PAGE 17-24
A year for the history books
DARKNESS INTO LIGHT 12 ENNIS RUGBY
17-24
FARMING
25
BUSINESS
28
SPORT
34/35
GET IN TOUCH
NEWS: PAGE 4
In a year when Ennis Rugby Club took home an unprecedented trophy haul, including silverwear for the newly-established girls teams, we meet the players and people behind the teams
OUT & ABOUT: PAGE 12
Darkness Into Light pictures
John Joe gets behind Clare
Once again, communities across Clare came together in their thousands for Darkness Into Light. We bring you pictures from Doolin and Ennis, where more than 2,500 people attended
With the GAA Championship season beginning in earnest for Clare this weekend, Clare megafan John Joe Costelloe has gone all out with his home
RECEPTION
The Square, Ennis, County Clare Telephone: 065 671 9021 Email: monica@clareecho.ie
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PLACE AN
l TWINNING IS WINNING: A delegation travelled from Clare County Council to Phoenix, Arizona to celebrate a twinning relationship that has thrived over the last 30 years between Phoenix and Ennis. Over the years over 100 students have participated in the hugely successful Youth Ambassador Programme, where teenagers from Phoenix and Ennis live with a local family during the summer in their twin town. Cllr Mary Howard is pictured here at the Grand Canyon with Betty Duarte and her sister Kirsten. Betty was a youth ambassador in 2015 and has been back for a return visit this past Christmas.
Decline in Ennis employment STUART HOLLY
editor@clareecho.ie
A ADVERT To learn how we can promote your business call us on 065 671 9021 or email ciara.farrell@clareecho.ie.
NEW report shows that more people living in the Ennis labour catchment area are working outside the town than in the town itself. This is one of the findings of a new report carried out by the Western Development Commission (WDC), which has carried out in-depth research into the commuting patterns in the Western Region. The report on the Ennis labour catchment area says this is unusual for a main urban centre with the data showing that 38.8% of workers resident in the Ennis labour catchment work within the town (compared to 39.4% in 2006) while a further 61% work
outside the town. The trend has been for a decline in employment within the town. Deirdre Frost, Policy Analyst at the WDC noted, “This is significant in the context of the recently published Project Ireland 2040, where urban centres such as Ennis will be expected to grow in importance. The forthcoming Regional Economic and Spatial Strategies will have to set out plans to support greater growth in urban centres”. A large proportion of people in the Ennis labour catchment area are travelling to work in rural county Clare (26.9% or 5,759). Other destinations for workers are Limerick City (9.1% or 1,955), up from 5.3% in 2006, and Shannon (4.8% or 1,037), up from 3.0% a decade earlier. The WDC commissioned the All-Island Research Observatory (AIRO) at May-
nooth to examine in detail the commuting patterns of those at work in the Western Region. The Ennis town labour catchment is the third largest labour catchment in the Western Region with a resident ‘at work’ population of over 20,000 (21,409) which accounts for 8.2% of the total resident workers within the Western Region (260,261). The numbers working in the catchment area is twice (21,409) the number of workers within Ennis town (10,737) highlighting the significantly larger labour supply available to the town. The report also fount that the age profile of those living in the Ennis town labour catchment is the second oldest of the catchments of the seven county towns in the Western Region.
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4
NEWS
Kildysart man converts home into Clare shrine
STUART HOLLY
W
editor@clareecho.ie
ITH the summer GAA season getting underway for the Clare hurlers and footballers this weekend, Kildysart man John Joe Costello is showing his support by turning his home saffron and blue. John Joe, a big hurling supporter, told The Clare Echo that he does up his home every year - and he even writes a poem for every match. John Joe's home is hard to miss when passing through Kildysart as he has erected flags and banners in his front garden wishing the team the best of luck. In his poem for this week's match, John Joe wrote: "Come on the Banner the best team of all, In Pairc Uí Chaoimh on Sunday the Rebels will fall; Last year's Munster final we threw it away, When we win on Sunday we will be on our way."
l BANNER ROAR: John Joe outside his home in Kildysart, which has been adorned by flags
THURSDAY, MAY 17 2018
Biodiversity week kicks off in Clare
CLARE County Council has announced details of ‘Clare Biodiversity Week’ taking place from this Sunday to May 27. The programme of free events will celebrate many aspects of Biodiversity in Clare from bat walks to whale watching. “The aim of Clare Biodiversity Week is to encourage active learning about Biodiversity through a range of enjoyable events and to increase public understanding that action taken locally has national and global importance. It is also hoped that members of the public can be encouraged to take an interest in helping to conserve Biodiversity for future generations,” stated Congella McGuire, Clare County Council Heritage Officer. Highlights include a guided tour at the Shannon Dolphin Centre, Kilrush, from 3pm on Sunday; Blossom Week at Irish Seed Savers Association, Scarriff (including daily free tours of seed gardens, heritage orchards, and custom-built seed bank); a free Bat Walk in the Vandeleur Estate Kilrush on Wednesday; and at O’Brien’s Bridge from 9.30pm; On 26 May, a free ‘Explore The Biodiversity’ walk in Clarisford Park, Killaloe, from 11am; a free Family Forest Run at Lees Road from 3pm; and at 3pm on Sunday, a free landbased whale watch at Loop Head.
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6
NEWS
THURSDAY, MAY 17 2018
'Road to nowhere' opens
STUART HOLLY
A
editor@clareecho.ie
LINK road which in recent years gained the uncoveted title of 'road to nowhere' will finally welcome its first cars this morning. Clare County Council has confirmed that Phase 1 of the Ennis Northern Inner Relief Road link will open this morning (May 17). The 520m road development in the townland of Dulick links the R-458 Gort Road with the Ennis Information Age Park Building and the Clare Technology Park. The opening marks the completion of the first phase of an overall plan to provide a link road between the Gort Road and the Tulla road (R352). It follows almost eight years of the road laying idle after up to €4m was spent on the project. Mayor of Clare, Cllr Tom McNamara, and Mayor of Ennis, Cllr Paul Murphy, have both welcomed the development describing it as “strategic infrastructure that will open up the Clare Technology Park to new investment.” Pat Dowling, CEO of Clare County Council, said, “Clare County
l NEW LINK ROAD: Pictured on the new Ennis Northern Inner Relief Road link L-R; John Moylan, Chief Technician, Clare County Council; Karl O'Callaghan, Technician, Clare County Council; Councillor Paul Murphy, Mayor of Ennis; Pat Dowling, Chief Executive of Clare County Council; Councillor Tom McNamara, Mayor of Clare; Tom Tiernan, Senior Engineer, Clare County Council; Carmel Kirby, Director of Physical Development.
Photo by Eamon Ward
Council considers the provision of this roadway to be of strategic importance to the development of the town of Ennis. The purpose of this road is twofold in that it will improve traffic flows in the northern area of Ennis town and also provide safe and proper access to Clare Technology Park.” The General Design department of Clare County Council carried out the final design work on the roadway. Jada Projects (contractor), on behalf of Clare County Council, recently completed 450 meters of the roadway which connects to a 70-metre section of road that Shannon Commercial Properties has also recently completed within their lands. The works include the provision of public lighting, stone walls, timber post and rail fencing, public utility ducts for ESB and telecommunications, surface water drainage, water supply, signage and lining, a bidirectional 3-metre-wide shared use footpath/cycle path, kerbing and landscaping. Carmel Kirby, Director of Physical Development, added, “This road is vital for Clare Technology Park and opens it up for further investment, expansion and job creation, continuing the success story that Ennis has become.”
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8
NEWS
THURSDAY, MAY 17 2018
McKee: Expel Israeli diplomats
STUART HOLLY
news@clareecho.ie
C
LARE General Election Candidate Cllr Mike McKee, has called on the Irish Government to expel Israeli diplomats following the massacre of unarmed Palestinian civilians which included an eight-month-old baby in Gaza this week. Councillor Mike McKee (inset) said: "What is happening in Gaza is an atrocity. There is no other way to describe it. Unarmed Palestinian protesters, including an eightmonth-old baby have died at the hands of the Israeli army, with thousands wounded and maimed. "The Irish Government must condemn the actions of Israel and the
murder of dozens of Palestinian protesters in the strongest possible way. The expulsion of Israeli diplomats and the recognition of the Palestinian state is a measure the government must consider." "The Palestinian people need the solidarity of Clare people. This could well be one of the bloodiest episodes in their tragic history and Ireland must take the lead among nations in saying that there can be no impunity or indemnity for state violence directed at peaceful protesters. "Without international sanction including from Ireland or diplomatic retribution, I fear that many more innocent civilians will be killed in the coming days." He continued: "The international community need to develop a new, collective initiative to bring an end to the war against the Palestinian people. The failure of the international community to take a stand against the multiple injustices being inflicted on the Palestinian people by Israel is shameful and outrageous." Councillor Mike McKee concluded: “Isn’t it time that our Government stood up against the apartheid state of Israel - not just utter empty words? “I really don’t know what more evidence you need to take decisive action to expel the Israeli Ambassador.”
l MAKING WISHES COME TRUE: Having fun during a 5k fundraiser walk for the Make A Wish foundation at the Fairgreen on Tuesday were students from Class 2F, Colaiste Muire, Ennis. Sue Cave, the local volunteer for Make-A-Wish since 2009, told The Clare Echo that the students of Class 2F are hoping to have raised over €600. "They are working on a project to fundraise for a charity of their choice. After much discussion, they picked Make-A-Wish, as one of the students cousins recieved a wish," she explained. "I went in to meet them last week and did a presentation so they fully understood the amazing work we do in Co Clare and the rest of the country. They had great enthusiasm and loads of questions for me. I wish to thank them all for their time and for picking Make-A-Wish. Girls, today you changed a life of a sick child and their familiy. Be very proud of yourselves." Photo by Martin Connolly
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preme Coil mattress is a fantastic investment and is available with a 10 year warranty and are currently on SALE with all sizes available. With up to 40% off luxury high end mattresses, this is a one off-event and Sale will run for 4 DAYS ONLY and will end on Sunday MAY 13 at 5pm. All Stock will be sold on a first come first served basis. For the duration of the SALE Kmc Home Trends are offering FREE nationwide delivery, FREE Removal of old MATTRESS and FREE Recycling of Packaging. The experienced staff strive to make sure every customer has a positive shopping experience. Sunday opening hours 11-5pm. We look forward to seeing you, from all the Team at Kmc Home Trends 065 6797853.
THURSDAY, MAY 17 2018
Baseball icon’s DNA mystery leads to Clare STUART HOLLY editor@clareecho.ie
A
HALL of fame major league baseball star who believed he was a secret Kennedy lovechild has finally - at the age of 72 - discovered that his ancestors came from Clare. Retired pitcher Jim Palmer was raised by his adoptive parents in Manhattan. Due to his resemblence to the famous Kennedy family along with a relative of his adoptive mother glimpsing the name ‘Kennedy’ on his birth cert, the former Baltimore star believed he had ties to American royalty. However the truth has been revealed thanks to Palmer’s third wife, Susan, who discovered through DNA testing that Mary-Anne Benedict of Massachusetts was a very likely ‘second or third cousin’ - she in turn was descended from the Moroneys of County Clare. When Benedict sent a photo of her grandmother Jenny Moroney, Susan noticed her husband and Jenny Moroney shared the same eyebrows. Moroney’s brother Thomas, turned out to be Palmer’s grandfather. His daughter was Mary Ann Moroney, Palmer’s mother.
l LONG WAY FROM CLARE TO HERE: Hall of famer Jim is actually a Clare man
According to The Daily Mail, Susan Palmer discovered that when Mary Ann Moroney gave birth on October 15, 1945, in a Manhattan hospital, unmarried, she chose the common name Kennedy as the mother’s name and ‘Maroney’ as the father’s. James’s biological father was a man called
Joe Geheran who had an illicit affair with Mary Ann. Susan Palmer says she still thinks about about Mary. She told The Washington Post: “She didn’t have any family here. Can you imagine being 38 and having a baby who was a mistake?”
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NEWS 9
New CEO of Shannon Chamber SHANNON Chamber has announced the appointment of Mary Considine, deputy CEO, Shannon Group plc, as its new president. Ms Considine succeeds outgoing president Julie Dickerson, managing director, Shannon Engine Support, whose term of office concluded at the end of March. Making the announcement on behalf of the Board, Shannon Chamber CEO said: “Since joining the Board as a director, Ms Considine’s guidance and contribution has been invaluable. Her cumulative wealth of experience will enable her to steer the Board as we work to deliver on a very wide range of programmes to benefit our 300 member companies and the region as a whole.” Thanking outgoing president Julie Dickerson for her contribution to the Board, Ms Downes added: “Combining her role as managing director of Shannon Engine Support with her duties as President was a very demanding task but was delivered with unswerving dedication. The Board extends its thanks and appreciation for the time invested as President. Ms Dickerson will remain on the Board as ex officio.” Shannon Chamber also announced the selection of Stephen Keogh, managing partner, Keating Connolly Sellors as its vice president and Eoin Gavin, of Eoin Gavin Transport will also join the board.
10 THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
THURSDAY, MAY 17 2018
Ronan Scully
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK Author spreading the word of positivity
Live a life that matters
E
VERYONE of us is busy in today’s fast paced world. In other words we are run off our feet and totally wrecked, physically and mentally and it’s difficult to put others needs or wants before our own. But, we should, as much as possible make our world a better place to care about others especially the most weak and vulnerable. We should be aware of the difficulties some of our family, friends, neighbours, colleagues and others carry. We should try to help bear as much as we can, some of their difficulties and strife. We all have needs and difficulties, little ones and big ones and we experience them almost every day no matter how rich or poor we may be! The following Serenity prayer helps me each day in my living, “God grant me the serenity, To accept the things I cannot change; Courage to change the things I can; And wisdom to know the difference. Living one day at a time; Enjoying one moment at a time.”
We can all give a helping hand sometimes HELPING OTHERS LIGHT TO SHINE: None of us can help everyone, but each of us can help someone near us
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
LOVE ONE ANOTHER
To be honest and if we are really honest with ourselves, it is our human nature that we are selfish and that we put our own desires above others, but we should always try to love others as best as we can. One of the best quotes and prayers that I love from Jesus is as follows, “This is my commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you and love your neighbour as much as I love you.” None of us can help everyone, but each of us can help someone near us. It may be only a smile, an encouraging word, a shoulder to cry on, a handshake, HELPING HAND: Love your neighbour
Your grudges, loves, resentments, cares, frustrations, acceptances and jealousies will finally disappear. So too, your hopes, ambitions, plans and bucket lists will expire. The winning of All-Ireland medals or any medals for that fact and losses that once seemed so important will fade away. It won’t matter where you came from or what side of the town or county you lived on at the end. It won’t matter whether you were beautiful, bright, talented, gifted or brilliant. Even your gender and skin color will be irrelevant. So, give of yourself to someone today and I promise you that you will sleep better tonight for it.
an acceptance of forgiveness, a wink, a listening ear, an acknowledgement, an non-judgemental moment or a hug to motivate them. Sometimes, it takes much more. Figuratively speaking, it might require a swift kick up the behind or a warning of what the future could hold, if attitudes, ways of going on and actions aren’t changed. Please everyone if you can with all your strength and power, if you know of someone
or if you come across someone that needs help and support please help that someone along the way of life’s journey. That is what life is really all about because if you hurt someone along that journey then you will destroy your own journey but then again who am I or anyone to judge another. In saying that, do your best always. I hope and pray that you know that you get more by giving more, not hoarding or trying to hold onto what you do have. I hope and pray that you know that you have incredible talents and you can use them for a greater good if you believe in goodness and the genuine care of looking after one another. I hope and pray that you know the satisfaction of learning and caring and compassionately helping others to learn and genuinely care too. I hope and pray that you know that love is seeing the good in
others and helping their light to shine. Your light shining can help others light to shine as well. Never blow out someone else’s light but always try to make it shine brighter. Believe me some day it will all come to an end. There will be no more scenic walks in nature or on the beaches around the country or sunrises or sunsets for that matter, no seconds, no minutes, no hours, no days, no weeks or no years. All the things that we have hoarded, whether hidden, treasured or held in a display cabinet or in a bank account, will pass to someone else or to a goverment account. Your wealth, fame, achievements, power and even your rememberance each year will whither down to, did we ever exist at all. It will not matter what you owned or what you were owed.
As your thought for the week, become a giver instead of a taker and I promise you that you will find comfort, contentment, and joy in your living. So, be a blessing and genuinely be a helper and a carer and a lover. May one of your purposes in life be to help someone today and always give it your all!! Always remember that success is not just reaching the top, but also helping others go up Success is not being better than the rest, But helping others be at their best. Success is not about having fame or fortune, but helping others avoid misfortune. Success is not about showing that you are superior, but helping others know that they are not inferior. Success is not about showing off your ability, but helping others enjoy stability. Success is not getting what you want at every single word, but helping others get what they cannot afford. Success is about making people smile, helping others live a life that is worthwhile. Living a life that matters doesn’t happen by accident. It’s not a matter of circumstance but of choice. Choose to live a life that matters.
THURSDAY, MAY 17 2018
NEWS 11
Three towns to be enhanced
STUART HOLLY
news@clareecho.ie
E
NNISTYMON, Kilrush and Scariff have been chosen to participate in a LEADER funded Clare Market Towns initiative. The towns have traditionally been centres of trade within Clare, and still act as important Service Towns for their surrounding hinterlands. Speaking on the Clare Market Towns Project, LEADER Programme Coordinator for Co Clare, Gloria Callinan stated that “with the help of LEADER funding, a three year programme has been initiated aimed at enhancing the vibrancy of all three towns through the improvement of economic, social and cultural conditions. Over the last number of months CLDC, in conjunction with Future Analytics Consulting (FAC), have engaged in a range of public consultation events across the three towns. The initial public meetings were held to provide a background to the project, state the aims of it and to garner support for the creation of the Town Teams in each locality”. The LEADER Rural Development Programme provides funding
streams that are targeted at the areas of; economic and enterprise development, job creation, community development, rural youth, social inclusion, biodiversity, renewables and rural development. CLDC in association with the three towns of Ennistymon, Kilrush and Scariff has secured LEADER funding of €141,000 which will provide for the creation of Community Strategies and a 3-year Town Team training programme. This programme falls under the Clare Market Towns initiative. Billy Hynes, Director of FAC has been encouraged by the turn out at public meetings and by the energy he has seen. He said: “These Town Team Partnerships are composed of members representing the range of people across our local communities, and they will act as the primary vehicle for positive change. The Partnerships will utilise the variety of skills and enthusiastic volunteers found throughout the County, as well as working in collaboration with already established community groups, to deliver upon the aims set out in the Community Strategies”. To get involved in the Clare Market Towns initiative, please contact Martina Minogue, CLDC on 065 686 6800.
l LOCAL PRODUCER: Neven Maguire and Dunnes Stores Simply Better celebrated great Food Producers at a special Spring themed Cookery Demo at Dunnes Stores, Ennis on Friday 11th May. Neven prepared some delicious recipes from the ‘COOK with Neven Maguire Magazine’ which is available online. Pictured with Neven is Orla Meere, Meere’s Pork Products Photo by Arthur Ellis
12 OUT & ABOUT
THURSDAY, MAY 17 2018
The scene
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l HATS OFF: Ennis ladies Pauline Connolly, Wilma Mullins and Nuala Casey enjoyoying their cuppa after completing the Darkness into light event at the Ennis Courthouse. More than 3,500 people attended the Ennis event alone while thousands more took part in events at Doolin, Sixmilebridge, Shannon and Killaloe Photo by Martin Connolly
‘The stigma is finally crumbling’ STUART HOLLY editor@clareecho.ie
T
l PUCKER UP: A happy couple enjoy the Darkness Into Light event in Doolin
Photo by Karl Hughes
HOUSANDS of people were up before the crack of dawn last Saturday morning as they walked from Darkness Into Light to raise funds for Pieta House. More than 3,500 attended the Ennis event where the Ennis Gospel Choir raised spirits from 3.30am, while thousands more took part in Darkness Into Light events across the county, including Doolin, Shannon, Sixmilebridge which was in its first year, and Killaloe. Organisers in Doolin confirmed that more than 500 walkers attended their second event, while Mary Howard, one of the organisers of the Ennis event, called the morning walk one of the most emotional she has seen. Before thanking all those who helped to make the event possible, Mary said in a statement: “At 4.15 am
over 3,500 men, women and lots of children participated in our 8th Darkness Into Light walk in Ennis. “It is one of the most special and emotional events that I have ever been involved in, the participants arrive pale and tired after getting out of their warm and cosy beds at stupid o’clock, but they are doing it for a reason, or to show solidarity with those who are bereaved by suicide or those who are struggling and are in crisis, or to remember someone who is no longer with us, each participant has a reason to be there. “This year more than any other year we had a huge amount of young people especially preteens who asked their parents to do it with them. This to me was the most positive and fundamental change over the eight years that I have been involved, - children are aware and want to be part of the change in Irish attitudes to mental health issues and suicide. The stigma is finally crumbling.”
OUT & ABOUT 13
THURSDAY, MAY 17 2018
OUT IN FORCE: The Donovan family from Clancy Park Ennis who completed the Darkness into Light walk in Ennis Photo by Martin Connolly
FAST MOVERS: First ladies to return were Jane and Mary O’Leary from Newmarket
Photo by Martin Connolly
CONTRIBUTION: Greg O’Neill and Family presenting a donation of €210 to Tom McEvoy for Pieta House Photo by Martin Connolly
l SHOW OF UNITY: James Whelan from Barefield and Conor Devane of Roslevan ran the route in 19 mins
Photo by Martin Connolly
READY TO GO: Marian Walsh cuts the ribbon at the start of Darkness into Light in Ennis Photo by Martin Connolly
14 COLUMNIST
Caroline Bourke
MAKE-UP AND STYLE
SUMMER SECRETS LIFE HACKS TO KEEP YOU FEELING IN TIP-TOP SHAPE ALL SEASON LONG
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lON TREND: Natalie Portman, Sienna Miller, Kiera Knightley
THURSDAY, MAY 17 2018
lSKIN: After being in the sun, cleanse, tone and apply a hydrating mask to re-hydrate and plump the skin from a long day
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BOOK YOUR PLACE AT THIS GREAT FESTIVAL
F
OLLOWING the devastating impact of Storm Emma on the programme for the 12th annual Ennis Book Club Festival, the Festival is delighted to have rescheduled a number of key events from the programme. These will take place on Saturday 9th June in glór and are now on sale. At 8pm Ennis Book Club Festival presents A tribute to Sebastian Barry, who is in conversation with Festival favourite host Seán Rocks. Sebastian Barry is one of Ireland’s greatest living writers, and has recently been appointed the Laureate for Irish Fiction 2018-2021. A panel of special guests will discuss the work of the celebrated poet, playwright and novelist in the first half, and after a short interval, Seán will be joined on stage by Sebastian for an intimate and unmissable interview. A highlight of this year’s Festival programme and a book club favourite, Ruth Fitzmaurice, author of I Found My Tribe, will be in conversation with columnist, journalist and broadcaster Mick Heaney at 4pm. Ruth Fitzmaurice was born in 1976 and grew up in Co. Louth. She was a radio researcher and producer when she married film director and writer Simon, in 2004, and had three children. In 2008, Simon was diagnosed with
Motor Neurone Disease and given three years to live. Simon went into respiratory failure in 2010 and was accidentally placed on a ventilator during an emergency procedure. He decided, against medical advice, to keep the ventilator; Ruth and Simon went on to have twins in 2012. In January 2016, Ruth wrote her first piece for the Irish Times about family life and a new passion, sea swimming. In 2017, Simon sadly passed away. Ruth’s first book I Found my Tribe won the Bord Gáis Energy Irish Book Awards - Newcomer of the Year Award. This event will be run in tandem with a screening of It’s Not Yet Dark at 2pm, a film which tells the ground breaking story of Ruth’s husband, Simon Fitzmaurice, a talented young Irish film maker with MND, as he embarks on directing his first feature film through the use of his eyes and eye gaze technology. Simon Fitzmaurice died in October 2017, only two weeks after the film’s release. l Tickets for the rescheduled events
can be booked on 065 6843103 or online at www.glor.ie. Ticket holders for the original events have all been contacted and tickets have been transferred or refunded.
lHIGHLIGHT: Ruth Fitzmaurice author of I Found My Tribe.
Photo by: Marc Atkins
EXHIBITION FINDS A ‘HOME’ IN GLÓR VISUAL art works and sculpture pieces responding to the theme ‘Home’ will be exhibited at glór in Ennis from the 18 May to 16 June at the annual Embrace for Arts and People with Disabilities exhibition. Each year up to 300 participants with different abilities engage with local professional artists who teach a wide range of visual art and performance forms including environmental art, film, animation, textiles, mosaic, music, dance and drama. This year’s Embrace exhibition and performance event presents a culmination of their unique, colourful, bold and sensitive works.
Established in 2001 and funded by the Arts Council the Embrace programme works with up to 20 organisations and 30 professional artists on its Arts & Disability programme to provide art and performance workshops for up to 300 participants per year . For 17 years local and national organisations such as the HSE, Enable Ireland, The Dulick Centre, West Clare Mental Health and the Brothers of Charity have partnered with the Arts Office to provide and develop an ongoing successful Arts & Disability Programme for adults and children who have an interest in pursuing and enjoying the arts.
The official launch will be opened by Mayor Tom McNamara and Everest mountaineer and Elevate founder John Burke on Tuesday 22 May at glór at 1.00 pm, followed by live performances and a short film screening.
FOR FURTHER DETAILS PLEASE CONTACT EMBRACE COORDINATOR: CEARA CONWAY, 065 6899091, ARTS@CLARELIBRARY.IE.
16 ADVICE
THURSDAY, MAY 17 2018
Sheila Lynch Solicitor Legal Matters
A close look at medical claims l POLITICAL SUPPORT: At the ‘Get Together For Yes’ tour at the Temple Gate Hotel, Ennis were guest speakers Timmy Dooley TD and Sarah Monaghan, Together for Yes Executive Orla O’Connor, Co-Director of Together for Yes said “Speak to your neighbours and colleagues, to your family and friends - have those conversations. We know that the people of Ireland want to treat each other with kindness and compassion, to ensure that women and families can access the care they need, when they need it.” Photo by Barry Cronin
An initiative of
AS THE saying goes “your health is your wealth” and when under the care of medical professionals, we expect and deserve the best possible care and treatment. Medical professionals cannot guarantee that they will cure all patient’s illnesses or injuries, however they must ensure that a certain acceptable standard of care is administered to all. If the standard of care provided falls below the accepted standards of the profession and there is an act, or failure to act by the medical professional, that has caused injury, loss and damage. the patient may be entitled to pursue a medical negligence claim. There is no doubt but that such medical professionals have our best interests at heart and strive to achieve the best possible outcomes for their patients, whatever their ailments or diagnoses. However, sometimes things go wrong, and those under care may suffer injury as a result of negligence. In pursuing a Medical Negligence claim, it is essential that legal advice is obtained at the earliest opportunity so that all necessary steps can be taken to investigate whether or not there is a case to be answered by either a hospital or medical professional in the circumstances. The first step is that Medical Records of the hospital and treating doctors are obtained under the relevant Freedom of Information and Data Protection legislation. This can be a time-consuming exercise and so it is important that it is done at the earliest possible
stage. Secondly, these Records must then be carefully examined by an independent Medical Expert, qualified in the relevant medical field, to ascertain if the required standard of care has been met in the patient’s care and treatments. If this independent Expert confirms acts of negligence by way of a Medical Legal Report then the patient (or in certain cases their family) may pursue a medical negligence claim. The ‘Statute of Limitations’ sets a very strict time limit within which any such claim can be commenced. In general terms, the limitation period runs two years from the date of occurrence of the alleged injury or when the patient possessed sufficient knowledge of the circumstances of that injury. In the case of child, the limitation period begins on their 18th birthday. Medical Negligence claims can be complex and often liability is not admitted until the very late stages of a case, which can prove very stressful for injured parties and their families and reform in this area is required to better serve the public. This article does not constitute legal advice. For further info, contact Cashin & Associates Solicitors, 3 Francis Street, Ennis, Co. Clare. Tel: 065 6840060. Email: slynch@cashinlaw.com
Ennis Tidy Towns
LEad BENZENE NITROGEN OXIDES
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turn it off OUTSIDE OUR SCHOOLS
Celebrating Ennis RFC 2018 A look back at the Clare club’s historic season
Ennis RFC ‘is fit to explode’ Memorable trophy count for 2017/18 Ennis U15 Girls Munster Bowl Cup Ennis U18 Girls Munster Bowl Cup Ennis U15 Boys North Munster League North Munster Cup Ennis U16 Boys North Munster League winners Munster Cup All-Ireland finalists Munster Open Cup (includes schools players) Ennis 1st XV Martin O’Sullivan Cup winners
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LONG season has come to an end for Ennis Rugby Club and the celebrations can begin in earnest, after the U16s put the cherry on top by winning the Munster Open Cup last weekend. Ennis Rugby Club President Richie Murphy, putting the incredible trophy haul into perspective told The Clare Echo: “In terms of gathering trophies it has been a superlative year - we’ve never had a better one.” Richie breathes Ennis Rugby Club, having played since age six, coached underage and senior sides and having a role in the committee since 2002. “It’s a nice reward for the time and effort put in over the winter. I’m loathe to say you measure success by trophies alone but it’s been great.” Ennis is already in preparations for 2023, when the club will celebrate 100 years - with big emphasis on growing volunteer members within the club. Mr Murphy said: “There are plans to upgrade facilities in the clubhouse and the training area. The other aspect is ensuring we have enough volunteers to drive this thing forward. I feel that the club is fit to explode, but if we don’t have the people doing the grunt work behind the scenes we won’t be able to move
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l SUCCESS: The Ennis U16s win the Munster Cup at Thomond Park munsterrugby forward to our fullest potential. That’s a critical aspect.” Richie also stressed that while it’s been great to see success from U15s up, there’s huge emphasis on development of younger players. “It’s making sure everybody’s getting a run, everybody is prepared to be ready to step into U15s and U16s. There’s big numbers coming through from U12s and U13s so you’ve got to make sure there’s
depth.” “It starts with the Leprechauns, six and seven years old. Basically it’s just about fun, keeping them entertained and teaching them the fundamentals. Catch, pass, tackle, and making sure everybody’s getting a run. You’re just trying to give them as rounded an exposure to the game as possible. A kid that might be struggling at nine could well be your stand-out player at 18.”
Western Garages Proud Sponsors of Ennis U16 Rugby Team. Congratulations on a fantastic season and best wishes for the future.
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Ennis Girls cup winning squads at a glance U15 Coaches: Frank Coffey, Dave ‘Hanna’ Hanrahan, Grace Delaney, Tracy Walsh, Caroline Purcell, Daniel Gerathy. Captain: Emily Murphy Bowl Final Result: Ennis 55 Tralee 19 U18 Coaches: Lorcan Hoyne, Alan Harvey, John Colleran, Mike Corey, Shona Crowley, Paddy and Eilis Langan Captain: Grace Colleran Bowl Final Result: Ennis 13 Abbeyfeale 12
Girls off to flying start
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N A year of standout moments for Ennis Rugby Club, the introduction of girls underage rugby has arguably been the biggest success story for the club. Aside from the fact that the club has 80-plus new members, these girls have breathed new life and energy into the club, which defines itself as a cross-county club. With Lorcan Hoyne pushing the establishment of girls rugby in the club, they now proudly boast two trophies, having won the U18 and U15 Munster Bowls respectively and they are looking forward to their awards night in Woodstock Hotel on Friday night. U15 coach Caroline Purcell (or one of the mumagers as she’s affectionatly known as) told The Clare Echo: “ The girls on both teams displayed such determination and grit throughout the season and develped a real team spirit which was
remarkable to see for such a new team. “The feedback from the girls, parents and coaches of their other sports is that not only has their fitness and skills improved, but they have grown in confidence both on and off the pitch. That’s the best result we could have hoped for.” They got that, and so much more. We joined the captains of the respective underage girls teams and they both echoed the sentiments of Caroline, adding that they never envisaged when they first came to training back in August that they would end the season with silverware and love for a new sport. 15s captain Emily Murphy said at the beginning she was apprehensive about playing a physical sport but it wasn’t long before she adapted. Grace, who had been involved with gymnastics for 10 years, added: “I knew a lot of peo-
l THRIVING: Girls rugby has had a phenomonal response from the public Photo by Helen McQuillan ple playing so that made it easier.” 18s captain, Grace’s own father John has been involved with Ennis Rugby Club for years, last year helping his son Jack and the U18s to a Munster Cup and this year has decided to take on a coaching role with the U18 girls. While they both finished up with silverwear, both Grace and Emily admit that the season has been a learning curve for the players. Grace said: “I’d say we all got to
trust each other - we didn’t know each other well at the start but I think through training with each other, breaking up into backs and forwards, we began to earn trust in each other in general.” She added that to finish up the season with a trophy was “unreal”. Emily says, “I didn’t expect anything at the start of the season to win this was unreal.” Emily is looking forward to joining Grace in the U18 set-up next year, when nine of the U15s will make the move in
age-grade. And while the girls have left their mark on a local level - four of the U18s have turned heads in Limerick by making it onto the Munster U18 squad; Clodagh McDonnell, Eilís Cahill, Aoife Corey and Alannagh McInerney. John Colleran said: “The one thing that I found, without the likes of (team managers) Lorcan Hoyne and Alan Harvey, no organisation would be done. They’re brilliant with all the admin side so it was easy for me, all I had to do was coach. Caroline, meanwhile put her hand up when the call went out to get female coaches involved. She explained that they’ve been overwhelmed with the take-up from local girls. John added: “The numbers totalled out at aournd 80. It was consistent throughout the year - we had very little drop-offs.” Surprisingly, and in contrast to the boys, John added that there wasn’t a reliance on GAA players to form a local rugby team. “No not at all. Definitely not,” says John. “An awful lot of girls came from no team sport at all. Then there were some from basketball, some from gymnastics, some who had never played sport, some that never found a sport that appealed to them. Some of them would have felt that they were not
good at sport. There were so many girls that rocked up here on their own, knew nobody. Or there were some then that came who always wanted to play rugby. “The other thing that linked us well with the girls was the fact that we had such success at youth level over the past number of years and they were all friends with the boys at school. That friendship that was coming from the rugby – they wanted part of that.” The coaches added that the beauty of representing Ennis, is that you’re representing your county, as the girls come from everywhere. “We have girls from Kilmaley, Ennistymon, Lisseycasey, Tulla, Quin, Milltown, all over really. It’s very similar to the boys youths. There’s a huge catchment area. Northwest Clare, there is a huge draw down to Ennis for rugby at the moment. There are a lot of people coming from Kilmihil too. Everywhere. So we would have a lot of them coming in.” To say the coaches have been impressed is an understatement, with John adding, “One thing I found, coming in as a coach who has coached a good bit of rugby, and coming into that baseline, all I wanted to do was to keep it as simple as could be, and get them to enjoy it! That’s what seemed to happen then as the season was going on.”
l SILVERWARE: U18 coach John Colleran with his daughter and captain Grace, alongside xx, Photo by Julie Tillett U15 captain Emily Murphy, and coach Caroline
CELEBRATION: (top left) the U15 team who won the league and cup double, pose with Ireland’s Six Nations Trophy; (above) the U16s celebrate their Open Cup win and (below) Enda Galvin of the Ennis 1st XV secures a lineout Photos by Helen McQuillan
U16s reign supreme L OOKING in from the outside, you’d think that the U16s would be happy with their lot. However captain Tony Butler said that there is huge regret over their failure to capture the All-Ireland title. His coach Nigel ‘Sledge’ Moloney echoed that sentiment, explaining that the U16s vowed straight after the match to return to the final as U18s and take home the title. Having only lost three games in four years, it’s no surprise to see their ambition. Some 29 of the U16 side will continue next year with the U18s. Captain Tony Butler says that of the three trophies won, the Munster Cup meant the most to them, when they defeated Cobh at Thomond Park. “Being on top in Munster, and finalists in the All-Ireland, being the second best team in the country. Then we won the open cup to prove to the schools players they’re not as good as they think they are,” he says with a smile.
Watching the Ennis U18s win the Munster Cup last year has inspired the current 16s. Tony said that “seeing the celebrations and how much it meant to the club” spurred them on. It’s a group that cares deeply about the club, with almost a dozen of them coming through the system from U10. For captain Tony Butler, there’s the small matter of Clare Minor Hurling to concentrate on for the summer before he joins the livein Munster Rugby academy in UL this July along with two of his teammates; Conor Moloney and Ethan Coughlan. They’ll hope to follow in the footsteps of Aaron Hennessy, a former Ennis U18 player who is now in the Ireland national development program. Coach Ken Butler added that the majority of the team play GAA, and the two sports live happily side by side when compared to bygone eras. “Sean Doyle, the minor coach, has been a great support to Tony.”
U16s take trio of trophies in total Coaches: Ken Butler, Nigel ‘Sledge’ Moloney, Liam Browne, Eamon Garrihy and David Carroll Captain: Tony Butler Silverware: North Munster League Cup (six games unbeaten) Munster Cup: Defeated Cobh in the final at Thomond Park Munster Open Cup: Defeated Young Munster
l TRIPLE THREAT: Nigel Moloney, Tony and Ken Butler Photo by Julie Tillett
Ennis RFC 1st XV end trophy drought with League Cup win
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N A SEASON when you fall just short of your ultimate goal, it’s difficult not to be disappointed. At the beginning of the 2017/18 season, Ennis’s premiere team were full of optimism with the appointment of new head coach Gerry Casey and the return of former Ennis players to the club, who had previously moved to clubs in Limerick. The plan was to bounce straight back to Munster J2 rugby after a previous season relagation, however they fell at the last hurdle against Fermoy in the promotion playoff final. Despite high-energy pre-season and high-intensity training sessions, the season didn’t begin as expected, and a run of defeats was followed by coach Casey having to leave his post after being offered a promotion by Munster Rugby, where he works. In stepped veteren Ennis outhalf Bryanie Murphy to fill the void (as player coach), and alongside
l SEASON-ENDING WIN: Ennis back rower Dylan Tynan O’Mahony with coach Bryanie Murphy at Ennis Rugby Club Photo by Julie Tillett
his fellow coach Ennis’s No 8 Mike McMahon they begun to turn Ennis’s season around. A string of wins in Cup and League followed and soon Ennis were looking at the possibility of double honours. However it wasn’t to be. Dylan Tynan O’Mahony (27), who returned at the beginning of this season after a stint in Canada, told The Clare Echo: “We were close to promotion but to be honest I don’t know if we were ready. We had a great season, we did extremely well considering [our player resources]. It just shows that the talent is here. Losing the coach was a bit of a blow ... but in fairness, Bryanie took what he had been doing and kept going with it. We wouldn’t have had the season we had without him. “Our goal was to have a good season and we came 3rd in the league and won silverware, it’s the best season I’ve had with Ennis seniors.”
Ennis 1st XV at a glance COACHING STAFF: Bryan Murphy, Mike McMahon, Declan McAllister Captain David Flynn League Finish (Munster Junior Division 3) Third (lost playoff final to Fermoy) Silverware Martin O’Sullivan League Cup (defeated Dungarvan in the final)
New agri-food regulations STUART HOLLY
C
news@clareecho.ie
LARE Fine Gael TD Joe Carey has welcomed new regulations that will make it easier for certain businesses in the agri-food sector to source workers from outside the European Economic Area. The changes, which will operate on a pilot basis initially, include 500 permits for the horticulture sector, 250 for the meat industry and 50 for the dairy sector. As Chairman of the Oireachtas committee on Rural and Community Affairs, I am acutely aware of the challenges facing parts of the agri-food sector which employs about 173,000 people, contributes almost 8 per cent to gross national income, and currently has exports worth almost €13.5 billion. It is our most important indigenous sector and its reach into rural Ireland brings jobs and value to every region. The new regulations are a first step in addressing some of the challenges facing the sector. They will allow for a pilot, quota-based system to address the immediate needs of the horticulture, meat processing and dairy sectors. A new minimum payment threshold of €22,000 is being introduced for these occupations where there will be specific obligations on the employers around the welfare and prospects of the foreign nationals employed. This includes ensuring they have access to suitable accommodation and to training in areas such as language skills. Minister Creed said “the granting of a pilot quota of permits for the meat processing, horticultural and dairy sectors is timely and will go some way towards helping to fill the labour gap”. “The agri-food sector is a key source of employment, particularly regional and rural based employment, with over 173,000 jobs, or 8.6% of total employment in 2016. However, it is clear that certain parts of the
l EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES: Deputy Joe Carey and Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed pictured at the Burren
industry have been struggling to fill vacancies for some time now, despite a range of efforts”. “I must emphasise that these permits are only one piece of the jigsaw with regard to labour supply. The agri-food sector, in line with the Food Wise strategy, must value human capital, and put significant effort into attracting, retaining and developing the best people to work in the sector”. The Minister continued “the sector must also continue and intensify its efforts to source labour from both the domestic and EU labour markets. My Department will work closely with the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection to assist in these efforts. I am also hopeful that once the state opts into the EU (recast) Re-
ception Conditions Directive, anticipated to be in June, eligible asylum seekers will have access to employment, including positions in the agri-food sector. This could prove to be another valuable source of labour and I and my officials are in discussions with the Department of Justice and Equality and the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation in this regard.”
China Trade Mission Crucial as Brexit uncertainty persists
IFA President Joe Healy travelled to China this week as part of a Ministerial trade mission, following the opening of the Chinese
market for Irish beef last month. Joe Healy said, “With over half of our beef exports currently going to the UK, and Brexit looming large, it has never been more important to diversify and develop our markets and, in that context, China represents a huge opportunity. Securing a breakthrough on market access for Irish beef in April this year was a welcome development and positive news for the sector.” “China consumes one-quarter of the world’s meat supply, and imported 700,000 tonnes of beef in 2017. There is enormous potential for further rapid growth in consumer demand for beef, with consumption expected to double by 2020, driven by increasing urbanisation and rising incomes.”
Bullocks meet an exceptional trade ENNIS MART Thursday May 10 Another large entry in Ennis mart today were both grass buyers and feeders were very active. The bullock and heifer trade has remained a steady trade with prices matching those of last week and even increasing slightly. Good quality bullocks met an exceptional trade with more forward stores also an excellent trade. Cows were met with a very strong demand with more feeder type cows around today. Aged bulls sold to a top price of €1,980 for a CH bull weighting 1,020kg.
BULLOCKS 3 LMX 363kgs - €1,005 - €2.76/kg 1 CHX 560kgs - €1,485 - €2.65/kg 1 LMX 320kgs - €1,035 - €3.23/kg 1 LMX 625kgs - €1,650 - €2.64/kg 5 CHX 410kgs - €1,250 - €3.04/kg 2 AAX 650kgs - €1,445 - €2.22/kg 4 LMX 492kgs - €1,355 - €2.75/kg 1 LMX 805kgs - €1,965 - €2.44/kg HEIFERS 2 CHX 350kgs - €850 - €2.42/kg 1 LMX 510kgs - €1,440 - €2.82/kg 1 SIX 480kgs - €1,230 - €2.56/kg 1 SAX 615kgs - €1,460 - €2.37/kg 1 LMX 445kgs - €1,160- €2.60/kg 1 CHX 530kgs - €1,450 - €2.74/kg 1 SIX 600kgs - €1,400 - €2.33/kg 3 CHX 561kgs - €1,420 - €2.53/kg DRY COWS 1 LMX 530kgs - €1,220 - €2.30/kg 1 FRX 660kgs - €1,390 - €2.10/kg 1 BBX 600kgs - €1,510 - €2.51/kg 1 HEX 775kgs - €1,490 - €1.92/kg 1 CHX 765kgs - €1,790 - €2.33/kg 1 CHX 805kgs - €1,730 - €2.41/kg
1 AAX 530kgs - €1,220- €2.30/kg 1 FRX 860kgs - €1,430 - €1.66/kg
KILRUSH MART Wednesday May 9 Trade in Kilrush was brisk right throughout the day with a large sale for the time of year. Calf numbers increased on the previous week also. FR calves sold mainly from €50 up to €140. AAX/HEX calves sold from €95 up to €295, continentals sold up to €280. Heifers and bullocks were in strong demand, with trade similar to the prevoius week. A full clearance was achieved in the dry cow ring were all types were in high demand. DRY COWS 1 LMX 595kgs - €900 - €1.51/kg 1 CHX 580kgs - €1,290 - €2.22/kg 1 LMX 510kgs - €920 - €1.80/kg 1 HEX 610kgs - €1,200 - €1.97/kg 1 SH 750kgs - €1,200 - €1.60/kg 1 FRX 750kgs - €1,140 - €1.52/kg 1 FRX 790kgs - €1,100 - €1.40/kg 1 FRX 545kgs - €835 - €1.53/kg HEIFERS 1 LMX 345kgs - €860 - €2.49/kg 4 CHX 294kgs - €750 - €2.55/kg 3 CHX 248kgs - €620 - €2.48/kg 1 LMX 485kgs - €1,110 - €2.29/kg 2 HEX 452kgs - €985 - €2.18/kg 1 LMX 510kgs - €1,285 - €2.51/kg 1 AAX 430kgs - €800 - €1.86/kg 1 FRX 565kgs - €1,130 - €2.00/kg BULLOCKS & BULLS 5 CHX 316kgs - €990 - €3.13/kg 3 LMX 338kgs - €865 - €2.56/kg 2 HEX 387kgs - €895 - €2.31/kg 1 CHX 375kgs - €1,095 - €2.92/kg 3 FRX 477kgs - €890 - €1.86/kg 1 SIX 550kgs - €1,325 - €2.41/kg 1 HEX 595kgs - €1,280 - €2.15/kg 1 SIX 670kgs - €1,400 - €2.09/kg
26 COMMUNITY
Community
THURSDAY, MAY 17 2018
CONTACT NEWSDESK
065 671 9021 news@clareecho.ie
WEST / NORTH CLARE
l GOOD LUCK WISHES: CBS Ennistymon are very proud to congratulate their students who will play in the Munster Football Final on June 23. Principal Mary Lyons is also wishing Clare Minor hurling vice captain Keelan Guyler luck in his team’s first game on Sunday in Cork. Pictured (right) is the school’s contingent of Clare Footballers, Cillian Rouine (Captain) along with members of the team Jack O Reagan, Eoin Rouine, John Murphy, Ryan Barry, Darragh Connelly, Marc O Loughlin; (left) Mary Lyons wishes Keelan Guyler Clare Minor Hurling Vice Captain all the best for next Sunday.
ENNIS TOASTMASTERS The next Toastmasters meeting will be on Tuesday 22nd May from 8.00 pm at the Temple Gate Hotel and will include p repared and impromptu s peeches with constructive evaluations. T his is the final meeting of the season and, as always, visitors will be most welcome.
ENNIS CLARE SURF LIFESAVING MAKE A SPLASH The Clare Surf Lifesaving Nipper teams travelled to Dublin on Sunday last to represent the County in the National Surf Lifesaving Nipper Stillwater Championships. The two teams, Little & Big Nippers, swam extremely well and the overall Little Nipper National Cup was won by Clare for the second year in a row. There were some outstanding performances on the day, highlights of which included Sean Conway, Claudia Haugh and Darragh Ball winning Gold in all their individual events. Gold Medals also went to Jack Dilleen and Graham Ball. Other Medal winners on the day were U8 swimmer Lily Cronin, U9s Ingrid Murphy, Leah O’Connor and Shane Dileen, in the U10s Tadhg Conway and Roisin Hogan; U11 Stephen Wang, Ruben Haugh, Edith Haugh; U12, Ronan Kilroy, John Tuohy, Jodie Perkins and Leanna Liddane; U13 Sergej Pantic and Ella Bohannon; and in the U14s John Blake, Eanna Rouine and Molly O’Connell. Congratulations to both teams who did the County proud.
FUNDRAISING WALK Mid Clare Region of the Pioneer Total Abstinence Association, annual fundraising 5k walk is on Bank Holiday Monday June 4th @ 7pm. Start & finish at Matt Talbot Centre, Chapel Lane, Ennis. SLAINTE AN CHLAIR Come join Slainte an Chlair to view the Royal Wedding on a big screen with Champagne Breakfast and all the trimmings. West County Hotel, Ennis. May 19th, 11am. Tickets €20. In aid of Sláinte an Chláir. 087 6912396”. l WATER WARRIORS: Sisters Claudia and Edith Haugh; (below) Tadhg Conway, Sean Conway and Graham Ball; (bottom left) Roisin Hogan and Lilly Cronin
WEST / NORTH CLARE KILRUSH RUGBY AGM Please be advised that the AGM of Kilrush RFC will be held on Friday June 1st 2018 in Monmore at 8:00 pm. Nominations and Notice of Motions must be sent in writing no later that Friday May 25th to kilrushrfc@gmail. com KILKEE CIVIC TRUST Our annual Irish Chamber Orchestra concert will be on Thurs 17th May, (at 8pm), at Cultúrlann Sweeney, Kilkee, Co. Clare. Katherine Hunka and the ICO bring us their Death & the Maiden Tour - Baroque & Romantic Masterworks. Book Your Tickets at Cultúrlann Sweeney Box Office - (065) 9060769 - Tickets Cost €25. Online booking: www.culturlannsweeney.ie
THURSDAY, MAY 17 2018
Community
COMMUNITY 27 CONTACT NEWSDESK
065 671 9021 news@clareecho.ie
l PRESENTATION: Billy Donlon (Birr) receiving the Munster Seniors trophy from Jim Long, Chairman Munster Golf. Also included are Bernard Hanrahan, Captain Ennis Golf Club and Patrick Treacy from Treacy’s West County Hotel Ennis Photo by Niall O’Shea
EAST/SOUTHEAST CLARE CRATLOE CEILI RAISE €6K FOR CHARITY The Cratloe Set Dancers recently raised €6,000 for charity. This year they selected two charities to support Free Dinner Trust Limerick & Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust. They were each presented with their cheques on Monday last. The Cratloe Set Dancers are a group who meet every Monday night from beginning of September to the end of April in Cratloe Community Centre to learn and dance sets under the guidance of Michael McInerney who gives his time free because of his love for Set Dancing. They hold a ceili twice each year at Christmas & in the Spring. All proceeds together with a percentage of their weekly €5 (Cead Isteach) are donated to charity. The Free Dinner Trust in Limerick was set up a number of years ago by a few concerned people to provide some valuable nourishment to those who had fallen on hard times. Catherine Cowpar when receiving the cheque for €1,000 said that it is run totally by volunteers. Both Catherine and Siobhan Wheeler have been volunteering for ten years now. Every Sunday throughout the year approximately 120 dinners are prepared and served they also operate on Christmas Day. The Trust depends totally on donations. They are extremely appreciative of the generous donation from the Cratloe Set Dancers. The Kevin Bell Repartriation Trust was set up on June 16th 2013 following the tragic death of Kevin Bell aged 26 years in New York. Colin Bell father of Kevin stated that they now have repatriated 486 loved ones to their families in Ireland from countries worldwide and 4 more in the process.
The Cratloe Ceili Presentation Group with moneys raised for their chosen charities, Free Dinner Trust Limerick and the Kevin Bell Repatriation Trust; (Front) Mary Carew, Sheila McDonnell, Colin Bell, Mary Phelan, Siobhan Wheeler, Catherine Cowpar; (Back) Seamus Nolan, Maureen Gleeson, Michael McInerney, Michael Cuddihy, Kitty Ryan, Marjorie Nolan, Jim Liddane
This includes 7 in Clare & 20 in Limerick. The Trust repatriates 10 – 15 loved ones per month. It operates on a 32 county basis regardless of circumstances of death. Costs can be up to £12,000 depending on hospital release costs,
circumstances of death & local charges. Colin Bell said it was very appropriate to accept the cheque for €5,000 at a set dancing class as Kevin was a set dancer who had won an all Ireland set dancing in Scor na N’Og. He was extremely
thankful to the set dancers for their very generous donation. The Cratloe Set Dancers were delighted to have raised €6,000 for two such deserving causes at something they really enjoy doing & hope to continue well into the future.
28 BUSINESS
THURSDAY, MAY 17 2018
BUSINESS CONTACT US WE’RE ON FACEBOOK, TWITTER AND INSTAGRAM #CE
Ennis firm is centre stage
THE Mid West’s thriving aerospace and aviation industry will feature strongly at Manufacturing Solutions 2018, Ireland’s largest ever manufacturing supply chain conference and trade show, hosted by the GTMA* and Limerick Institute of Technology in LIT’s Moylish Campus on Wednesday June 13. Guest speakers from Boeing, Shannon IASC and Enterprise Ireland will discuss this growth industry which already employs over 1,600 people in more than 40 aerospace and aviation companies based in the region. Cook Medical’s guest speaker will present a talk on the all important Industry 4.0, INCASE, and innovation partnership projects. Manufacturing Solutions 2018 will also facilitate the unveiling of the €600,000 state-of-the-art, CNC Penta Machine during the conference and trade show. Taking centre stage at the event, or more accurately taking over the 12x6 metre marquee erected to house it, the 15 tonne, eight metre long, two metre high Penta machine, acquired by Panalok Ltd, Ennis, will be delivered to the conference at LIT’s Moylish Campus by a specially commissioned crane. The machine, which has previously been on show in Chicago, Milan and Birmingham, will be onsite at the Limerick conference demonstrating its ability to make a range of very small, high precision nuts and fasteners for the aerospace industry. After June 13, the Penta machine will be transported to Panalok’s production factory in Ennis, where it will take up the production of fasteners for new aircraft and aircraft maintenance. Charlie Coughlan, Director Panalok Limited said, “This new CNC Penta machine represents a significant investment by Panalok into the future. Its five
l SIGNIFICANT INVESTMENT: Charlie Coughlan, Director of Panalok Ltd different spindles and 31 CNC axis of movement is the equivalent of five machines in one. “This multi-spindle machine is designed to machine difficult materials high in Nickel and Chrome which are particularly hard and tough.
“Being able to machine these materials opens up new markets for Panalok and will help grow jobs and expand the activities of the company in Ennis,” he said. Manufacturing Solutions 2018 will take place June 13 from 8.30am-5pm.
Upskill with a bookkeeping award (SAGE 50)
GPA Solutions are delivering their Manual & Computerised Bookkeeping course in Ennis to provide learners with good basic knowledge of manual bookkeeping and the practical knowledge of the workings of SAGE 50 Accounts software. Learners who successfully complete this course will have a thorough knowledge of what is required to set up and process the SAGE 50 accounts package. Learners will learn how to process business documents and transactions in addition to understanding the procedures involved in completing VAT returns, Bank Reconciliations, Customers & Suppliers reports and Profit and Loss account. The programme is delivered through lectures, case studies and assignments. Successful participants will be awarded a component QQI Level 5 Manual & Computerised Booking Award. Additional online resources will be available to all learners enrolled on this course. The 5 day course commences on Thursday 24th May in Ennis and will run for five days over four weeks. Fully funded places may be available to eligible jobseekers.
For more information contact GPA Solutions on 087 4620677 or 091 562838 info@ gpasolutions.com www.gpasolutions.com
Credit where credit’s due Credit Union tops reputation charts
C l PART OF A MOVEMENT: Raymond O’Mahony, Chairman Chapter 13
REDIT unions have earned the top spot in a national study measuring the highest regarded organisations in Ireland. Credit Unions were ranked number one out of 100 companies surveyed for the 2018 RepTrak® report. With a score of 82, credit unions not only emerged in first place, but were also well ahead of the average score of 57.5 amongst other financial services organisations. Over 7,000 members of the
public were surveyed for the annual study which examines the emotional connection between people and the different companies and organisations they interact with. Companies were ranked on a Reputation Pulse score from 0-100, based on levels of trust, respect, esteem and admiration. There were 17 different categories of organisations, with credit unions claiming the top spot overall. Speaking about the award, Raymond O Mahony Chair-
man Chapter 13 said: “We are proud to be part of a movement that is regarded so highly across the country. Our dedicated staff and volunteers genuinely care about what our members want, and this is why we have consistently tailored our services and products to our members’ specific needs. He added, “We are delighted to celebrate this good news and we would like to say a heartfelt thanks to all our valued members for their continued loyalty.”
THURSDAY, MAY 17 2018
RECRUITMENT & APPOINTMENTS CONTACT US WE’RE ON FACEBOOK, TWITTER AND INSTAGRAM #CE
accounts & payroll training centre QQI accredited Courses in Ennis
sage 50 accounts 24th May Funding available for eligible Jobseekers Contact 091 562838 | 087 4620677
office@gpasolutions.com
• www.gpasolutions.com
Home Instead workshops in new Ennis location
IT’S been ten years since our very first Home Instead client in Clare. We’re also delighted to say that in our tenth year we have moved into our new home; Unit 16, 1st Floor, Roslevan Shopping Centre on the Tulla Road. With our new home and our ever increasing team we will continue to focus on Person Centred Care for vulnerable older adults while giving back to the community. So we’re delighted to continue our Confidence to Care Alzheimer’s CARE: Family and Community Education Workshop in our new location where we will have workshops throughout the year. From attending these workshops we hope you feel better equipped with practical techniques to help you cope with managing the challenging behaviours associated with dementia, engaging your loved one in meaningful activities and that you understand the im-
portance of taking care of yourself. Should you or your family value the opportunity to gain further understanding in Dementia or Home Instead please contact us (065) 6797507. We strive to enhance the lives of older adults and their families across so many communities in Clare. In doing so we are constantly searching for the best person to represent our values, namely our CAREGiver. Behind our person centred home care are quality people; our CAREGivers and our wonderful team where we’re delighted to also announce two great additions. Tricia Routley RGN is our new Quality Assurance Care Manager and will continue to conduct Quality Assurance visits in the home. Alongside Tricia is Emer O’Connor who will head up our Recruitment & Retention of CAREGivers in Clare.
Clare
065 679 7507
emer.oconnor@homeinstead.ie
BUSINESS
29
Property
Beautiful homes all over the County UNLOCK YOUR DREAM
Sought-after area EXCELLENT VIEWS
A
36 KINCORA PARK, LIFFORD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE CCOMMODATION on the ground floor comprises a porch, entrance hall with under-stairs storage, two sitting rooms, and a large fitted kitchen. On the first floor there are four generous-sized bedrooms and the main bathroom. To the rear there is a large, well maintained garden. There is also a garage and external WC. Kincora Park is a mature and sought-after residential area just a few
€180,000
minutes’ walk from the town centre and particularly close to the CBS and Coláiste Muire schools, Ennis General and St. Joseph’s hospitals and Clare County Council’s offices. Viewing is highly recommended. OFCH. 104.1 sq.m (1,120.3 sq.ft) approx. BER No. 109101188 Contact: Tiernan O’Malley, Sherry FitzGerald McMahon Tel: 065 686 7866
OPEN VIEWING SATURDAY 19TH MAY 10AM-10.30AM SHARP
€200,000
ARDNACRA, LISCANNOR, CO. CLARE
T
HIS cottage is situated on a fabulous c. 9 acre site overlooking Liscannor with excellent views. The cottage is in need of total renovation but would make a fantastic property once redone. Rarely does such a well located property with such amazing views and the benefit of land attached become avail-
able in this area. This has huge potential for a fine family home. OFCH and solid fuel fireplaces. BER G. BER Number 109624569. BER Code 1549.53.
Contact: Danielle Kavanagh, Sherry FitzGerald McMahon Tel: 065 686 7866
NEWS 31
THURSDAY, MAY 17 2018
lKING OF THE CASTLE: Conor O’Dea played by Michael Keane in front of Dysert O’Deas castle.
Photo by Chris Copley
lON GUARD: James Robert O’Dea in action.
Photo by Chris Copley
lDUEL ACTION: Actors reenacting.
lON TARGET: Photographed in action is Emily Meaney Lissycasey.
BATTLE ROYALE
lDEMONSTRATION: Artist Blacksmith and coppersmith Mark Wilson at work. Photo by Chris Copley
Photo by Chris Copley
Photo by Chris Copley
‘The Battle Of Dysert O’Dea’ renacted to mark 700th annerversay
lREADY TO RUMBLE: Actors in their battle gear. Photo by Chris Copley
Motoring lCUTE CAR: The tiny minnow can show the big whales of the car industry a trick or two
STUNNING SWIFT ROAD TEST: SUZUKI SWIFT SPORT
FACTS & FIGURES:
W
E ALL love an underdog, right? We’ve all hoped that, for example, Sunderland might escape relegation, or that the long-shot nag will win the Grand National. Or that Mayo will finally get that All-Ireland (maybe not that last one…). There is a universal appreciation of seeing the little guy get one over the bigger boys, though. And that kind of sums up the appeal of Suzuki as a brand. In Europe, and certainly in Ireland, Suzuki is a small player compared to the Fords, the VWs, the Toyotas etc. Globally, it’s rather bigger, but here at home it’s small numbers of small cars, to a dedicated group of fans. Nothing wrong with that, of course, but the joy here is in finding that, while the likes of a Yaris or a Polo or a Fiesta will without question find themselves higher up the sales charts, Suzuki can often turn up with a less-heralded, but more enjoyable product than any of those. Such it is with the Swift. Cuter to look at and, often, much more engaging to drive than any of the big-brand boys, the Swift has carved out a neat little niche for itself since Suzuki re-invented the model all the way back in 2005. Since then, the company has kept the style of the Swift very much intact (this third generation model representing a much bigger change in the car’s design than the second-gen version, but it’s still recognisably a Swift) while changing much underneath. The current Swift is a far, far more sophisticated device
than that 2005 original, with more space in side, much higher quality, and the option of a mild-hybrid fuel-saving engine — try looking for that in a Polo or a Fiesta and you’ll be disappointed. The model that has always kept us car nuts interested, though, has been the Swift Sport. The old one came with a 130hp 1.6-litre engine that was not, perhaps, a ball of fire, but it powered a deftly-tuned chassis that was a joy to drive, an effect amplified on tighter and twistier roads, where the Swift Sport’s chassis would often allow it to show more powerful rivals a clean pair of rear tyres. Now, for 2018, Suzuki is recreating the Swift Sport, and to ensure that it’s all thoroughly modern, it’s getting a turbo engine. Specifically, it’s getting the 1.4-litre BoosterJet four-cylinder petrol turbo engine from the Vitara S crossover. As mounted here in the Swift Sport, it’s basically unchanged from the version that the Vitara gets — 140hp, 230Nm of torque, and a 0-100km/h time of 8.1secs. That’s hardly the quickest hot hatch around, but
then again the Swift Sport has never been about posting big numbers — it’s all about the feel and feedback. To that end, Suzuki has lowered and stiffened the Sport (it’s 15mm lower to the ground than the old one, on specially-made Monroe shock absorbers) and taken weight out; as much as 70kg depending on the spec, with a very low kerb weight of 975kg. That’s in spite of the fact that the bodyshell is actually bigger, and there’s now sufficient space in the cabin for your to consider using the Sport as a daily car (not something you could have said of the cramped old one). The steering is a variable-rack system, which impressively doesn’t feel like one. In fact, it feels remarkably consistent in its weight, speed, and feedback and while it’s not quite as chatty as the steering of, say, the old Fiesta ST, it’s pretty darned lovely and it makes the Swift Sport a hugely engaging thing to drive on a challenging road. Those Monroe shocks are excellent too, as even on really poorly surfaced stretches, the Swift Sport refuses to ground out, nor run
Model tested: Suzuki Swift Sport Pricing: TBC, circa €22,000 Engine: 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol Transmission: six-speed manual, front-wheel drive Body style: five-door hatchback CO2 emissions: 125g/km (Band B1, €270 per annum) Combined economy: 50.4mpg (5.6 litres/100km) Top speed: 210km/h 0-100km/h: 8.1 seconds Power: 140hp at 5,500rpm Torque: 230Nm at 2,5003,500rpm Boot space: 265 litres rear seats up; 579 litres rear seats down EuroNCAP rating: Four stars; 88 per cent adult, 75 per cent child, 69 per cent pedestrian, 44 per cent safety assist into its bump-stops. It feels agile and zippy, without ever feeling nervous nor snappy, and only runs into traditional front-drive understeer when you really push it on a race track. At road speeds it feels entirely neutral and beautifully balanced. Basically, it’s big, big fun in a small package. Once again, the tiny minnow can show the big whales of the car industry a trick or two…
THURSDAY, MAY 17 2018
MOTORING 33
Motoring News
New Citroen C4 Cactus arrives in Ireland Once an SUV, the Citroen C4 Cactus is now a hatchback
C
ITROEN’S new C4 Cactus hatchback launches in showrooms nationwide this month, with pricing starting from
€19,995. Benefitting from the Citroen Advanced Comfort programme, the new model represents a European premiere for the brand’s new suspension system with Progressive Hydraulic Cushions and a world first for its Advanced
Comfort seats. The new C4 Cactus combines the personality of the original C4 Cactus with the class-leading comfort of the C4. The Cactus launches in showrooms across Ireland this week, featuring a host of exterior and interior styling, engineering, technology and connectivity updates. There are three core trim levels to choose from – Touch, Feel and Flair, and pricing for the new
C-segment hatchback starts from just €19,995. The Citroen Advanced Comfort programme is at the very heart of New C4 Cactus, with features and technologies designed to emphasise a feeling of reassurance, comfort and calm. This fresh new model takes driver and passenger well-being to a new level, setting the standard for comfort through the world premiere of the brand’s Advanced
Comfort seats and the European debut of the eagerly-anticipated new suspension system with Progressive Hydraulic Cushions. There are nine exterior colours to choose from and four Colour Packs giving a total of 31 different exterior colour combinations offering you the opportunity to really personalise your new C4 Cactus. The new compact hatchback comes with a range of technol-
ogies and engines to maximise user comfort. The model has received numerous upgrades with 12 driver assistance systems now on offer, including Active Safety Brake, Grip Control and Lane Departure Warning. There are also two connectivity technologies; Citroen Connect Nav, and Mirror Screen functionality (Android Auto/Apple Carplay).
lSTYLISH: The Cactus launches in showrooms across Ireland this week, featuring a host of exterior and interior styling, engineering, technology and connectivity updates
EchoSport
l PIPPED AT THE POST: Clare’s Oscar Traynor team who were defeated by Kilkenny Photos by Martin Connolly
Clare’s three in a row dream dashed Oscar Traynor Trophy SF @ Frank Healy Park; Clare 1 Kilkenny 2
C
LARE’S hopes for an Oscar Traynor three in a row came to a heartbreaking end in the 89th minute of their semi-final against Kilkenny on Sunday at Frank Healy Park. While holders Clare have had a stranglehold on the All-Ireland competition in recent years, visitors Kilkenny were searching for their first trophy in more than 10 years. The Leinster side have won the competition five times in past, with manager Jim Nugent on four of those teams hoping to take their legacy forward. The first half was conducted by dominant defences and superb goalkeeping displays with both sides being held scoreless - despite Clare being deprived of three starting defenders from last season. While neither team gave much away, Kilkenny’s Dean Broaders
had the first chance from a cross early on, but he shot over the top from 12 yards out. At the other end, Clare had their own share of chances and were unlucky to be denied by the woodwork on a couple of occassions. David McCarthy struck the woodwork from 20 yards out, with the loose ball being cleared, while just before half time it was Eoin Hayes’s turn to strke the bottom of the post. Five minutes into the second half, Newmarket Celtic man Eoin Hayes met a cross from the right, however Kilkenny goalkeeper Eoin Wall made a very impressive save. Both sides had half chances in the 20 minute period that followed but nothing clearcut until the 70th minute when Dean Broaders was fouled inside the Clare area. Niall Andrews duly converted by shooting high into the net, with an unstoppable penalty. However it was a case of deja vu down the other end just three minutes later when Clare substitute Colin Scanlon was taken down
on right of the six yard box. Eoin Hayes was on hand to strike the resulting penalty to the keeper’s right, low into net. Clare grew into game in the final period of the match with Scanlon injecting huge energy into the game, creating problems for defence and being involved in a couple of chances. A Gary O’Connell header was a close as Clare came to winning this game but what looked like a goalbound effort hit the post and the keeper pushed the ball away for a corner. As game entered injury time, Kilkenny had a break down the left and Emmet Nugent broke towards the edge of the box, after holding off a challenge, and shot across goal into corner giving Barry Ryan no chance. l NIP AND TUCK: Colin Ryan is fouled by Kilkenny’s Dean Broaders Meanwhile, next Friday, the Kap- Photo by Martin Connolly pa Sportswear Junior Cup final will Clare: Barry Ryan (Avenue Utd), Colin Smyth (Newmarket Celtic), Dylan Catake place at the County Ground at sey (Avenue Utd), Simon Cuddy (Avenue Utd), Eoin O’Brien (Newmarket Celtic), 7pm between rivals Avenue Utd & Colin Ryan (Newmarket Celtic), Derek Fahy (Bridge Utd), Gary O’Connell (ShanTown), Eoin Hayes (Newmarket Celtic), David McCarthy (Newmarket Celtic), Newmarket Celtic. Newmarket are non Tommy McKeown (Tulla Utd) Subs: Mark Roche (Avenue Utd), Dylan Blake (Lifgoing for their seventh cup final in ford), Jimin Dooley (Moher Celtic), Ian Collins (Newmarket Celtic), Colin Scanlan (Shannon Town),Darren Whelan (Shannon Town), Ciaran Monaghan (Sporting a row. Ennistymon) Referee: Johnny Walsh (Tipperary)
SPORT 35
THURSDAY, MAY 17 2018
Let the games begin ‘Cork are a huge challenge’ says O’Connor ahead of Munster openers CLARE GAA fans will finally enjoy their first taste of summer action this weekend as the senior hurlers travel to Cork in the first round of the newlook Munster Championship while the footballers make a short trip to Limerick. In a repeat of last year’s provincial final, Clare will look to get their Munster Senior Hurling Championship campaign off to a winning start on Sunday at Pairc Ui Chaoimh at 4pm, a match which will be preceeded at the same venue by the minor team who also take on Cork at 2pm. For the Cork side, it has been reported that Tim O’Mahony (elbow fracture) and Alan Cadogan (knee ligament damage) are huge doubts for the Rebels, in a season where teams will be relying on large panels. Speaking ahead of the contest, Clare’s joint manager Gerry O’Connor said: “Cork are a huge challenge for us. We came up second best against them last year in the Munster final; from our perspective we learned an awful lot from that game - particularly their attacking game and the threat that their puckouts cause. “Our team is probably a little bit more settled this year and we’re looking forward to a massive challenge down in Leeside.” He added: “We’ve had some very competitive games over the last two or three weeks in training so we’d be very confident that our panel is well positioned to compete.” Clare for their part, are ranked last in Munster by the bookies and writing for The Irish Independent, Jamesie O’Connor gave a similar verdict, predicting that the Banner will not qualify from Munster. He addede that Clare will rely heavily on Shane O’Donnell, Conor McGrath, Tony Kelly and Colm Galvin, particularly with Aron Shanagher and Aaron Cunningham missing. He also raised concerns over Clare’s defence, adding: “Some knowledgeable hurling people within the county are genuinely concerned they mightn’t win a match given how competitive the province is likely to be. The contrary view is that if they win in Cork next Sunday, anything is possible.” Meanwhile, Clare’s footballers will be expected to win in the first round of this year’s Munster Senior Football Championship this weekend at the Gaelic Grounds where they will face Limerick. The Treaty men have failed to truly test Clare in their three recent Championship meetings, and with the Banner solidifying their Division 2 status this year and Limerick still in the basement group, that trend should continue. Throw-in is at 7pm this Saturday.
l LYNCHPIN: Gary Brennan will play a major role for Clare Photo by Martin Connolly
l REMATCH: Cork’s Tim O Mahony battles David Reidy earlier on this year at Cusack Park
Photo by Martin Connolly
36 CLASSIFIEDS
THURSDAY, MAY 17 2018
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NO Wate W A r Io n VA ILA iser BL E PH Adjustments 2.5 – 11.5 Also Available: Solar Panels Heat Pumps Percolation Pipes Septic Tanks
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38 CROSSWORD/HOROSCOPES
THURSDAY, MAY 17 2018
Your Horoscopes May 17 IT’S not like you to hold back when you have something to say. In fact, it’s so completely out of character that when you do, your friends start asking who you are and what you’ve done with the person they know. They’ll start asking that question now, mostly because every time a certain subject comes up, you’ll refuse to discuss it. Why put them through this? Give up the goods. You know you want to.
Taurus
Gemini
ENOUGH with the babysitting, caretaking and worrying about everyone else’s feelings but your own. It’s officially time for you to renew your interest in yourself. Start by scheduling a nice, long talk with a loved one -- someone you’re absolutely sure you can trust. You definitely won’t have a problem finding someone to pour your heart out to. Anyone who knows you will consider it an honor.
YOU’RE witty, sharp and funny, and you learned a long time ago to listen to your gut. At the moment, that built-in radar is telling you that there’s something coming up. The good news is that what’s on the agenda isn’t going to be at all unpleasant. You’ll probably end up being quite delighted with the surprise the heavens have in store for you.
Cancer
Leo
Virgo
YOU’VE heard all the rumors about love at first sight -- about how it’s possible to meet the love of your life through a blind date, an oddly coincidental circumstance, or when your fingers touch as you reach for the same salt shaker. It’s all true -- but what if it’s love at second sight? After several years? Anything is possible, especially now. So when a friend offers to introduce you to someone who’s just perfect for you, don’t be surprised if you’ve already met.
A HIGHER-UP has issued a proclamation that you’re not exactly going to be tickled about -- some new rules that are really a step backward. While you’re not going to be happy, you’ll have to live with them -- temporarily. Of course, this could be the excuse you’ve been looking for to change jobs, but don’t do anything just yet -- wait a few weeks. You may be able to work things out with just a little bit of effort -- and some of that legendary charm.
LOTS of renewed friendships and long distance travel could be coming up -- and all possible combinations of the two are what you can look forward to. Whether you end up traveling to see an old friend, traveling with an old friend or receiving a visit from a long-lost loved one, it’s going to be a month to remember. Be sure to keep not just your eyes, but also your mind, wide open.
Libra
Scorpio
Sagittarius
Capricorn
Aquarius
Pisces
STILL in the mood to stay home and forget about the rest of the world? Well, if you’re attached and you can afford to take some time off, see if you can’t talk your sweetie into doing it with you. There’s something about a day away from everyone -- especially when it wasn’t on your schedule to start with -- that brings back memories of carefree times; when taking a risk was bold and exciting.
YOU’RE all set up for an extremely romantic evening -- and if you’re lucky, it could last for quite some time. A neighbor or sibling -- someone you haven’t seen in a while -- will likely want to have a serious heart-to-heart conversation. Go ahead. Don’t worry about ruining the reunion. Once you two have decided where you’re at, where you were before and where you’re going now, you’ll end up being a lot closer than you were ‘back in the day.’
1/1
Aries
RIGHT now, you’re the kind of person who insists on depth, intensity, and passion in all your encounters, so anyone who wastes your time with meaningless chatter won’t garner a second conversation. At the moment, however, you’ll amaze even yourself at how much you’ll enjoy chatting with someone you thought you had no interest in -- on just about any topic.
THINGS have been kind of crazy lately, and your loved ones haven’t been sure what to do with you. That’s why your phone has been ringing off the hook. You’ve done your job, however, by being patient, even with the old-timers who insist on repeating their advice over and over again -- and that’s really all you can do. So when you’re asked for your counsel, you might wonder why. Consider the possibility that they may trust you, too.
The Clare Echo Crossword
ACROSS
1 Goddess entertained by The Beatles (4) 3 Partisan could be one with ambition (8) 9 Measure area with one large duck (7) 10 Fish, by the sound of it, in position (5) 11 Small detached territory oddly insolvent (5) 12 Nick is brought back in central location (6) 14 Telling a story while engaged in textile manufacture? (8,1,4) 17 Compound such as chalk a litmus test reveals (6) 19 Policeman starts to search extremely small wood (5) 22 He is leader in train robbery (5) 23 Last object - lion’s share (7) 24 Animals appearing in European musical (8)
YOU’VE spent most of your waking hours thinking about one particular person -- someone from the past. Now, finally, you have the chance to actually spend some time alone with them. You’ve got a lot to say, and you’re finally ready to say it -- and they do, too. Let them go on as long as they like -- first -- then take your turn. Think of it as an investment in the future.
HERE’S a nice, quiet day for you, the stuff that lovely memories can be made of -- especially if you already know how the stories turn out because you’ve shared them together. The heavens are primed for romance, tenderness and the exchange of truly meaningful words. Spend as much of it as you possibly can with someone who’s always cared for you as much as you’ve cared for them. You know exactly who to call.
25 Change course? Move erratically? Not entirely (4)
DOWN
1 Epitaphs composed for the most fortunate (8) 2 Boringly dull prohibition by health centre (5) 4 Doubtless, mistake offends client (4-9) 5 Spirit initially expresses life force (5) 6 A Tibetan monk with a bishop in a US state (7) 7 Bound to have equal scores (4) 8 Box adding weight to vehicle (6) 13 Star once involved with old family member (8) 15 Animosity expressed by ailing Bard of Avon? (3,4) 16 Agree with a num-
ber of Romans and give way (6) 18 Ace investigator pens last letter for old American (5)
20 Public house gets a single call (5) 21 Man in church with a piano (4)
CROSSWORD ANSWERS
QUIZ 39
THURSDAY, MAY 17 2018
The Clare Echo Quiz TRIVIA TEST
Which of these towns in Clare has What does ‘An Bhoireann’ trans1Ennis, densest population? 5 late directly to? Shannon, Kilrush Limestone rock, Rocky place, Stone Who was the first honorary freevillage 2 man of Ennis? Who was the Clare man who Michael D. Higgins, Muhammad Ali, 6 holds the record of longest time Michael Jordan served for Cardiff city F.C.? Which of these clare people inWillie Boland, Robbie Keane, Shay 3 vented the submarine? Given John P Holland, Brendan O’Regan, Which of these Liverpool players Reginald Clare-Hart 7 who grew up in Kilrush was the How many symbols is there on first Irishman to play for the Reds? 4 the Clare crest? Robbie Keane, Billy Lacey, John 4, 5, 6
l INVENTOR: What Clare person invented the submarine?
9 l BURREN: What does ‘An Bhoireann’ translate directly to?
10
ANSWERS
6. Willie Boland 7. Billy Lacey 8. The Princess Bride 9. Barry Cotter 10. Clonlara
8
1. Ennis 2. Muhammad Ali 3. John P Holland 4. 6 5. Rocky place
O’Shea Which of these movies did not have a scene filmed in Clare? Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince, Star Wars, The Princess Bride What is the name of the player from St. Flannan’s College that got a contract with Ipswich town? Barry Cotter, Cian Courtney, Eoghan Hahessy Which Clare town is Marcus Horan from? Clonlara, Shannon, Kilrush
OLD IMAGES OF COUNTY CLARE
Bunratty circa 1860-1883.
Photo from The Stereo Pairs Photograph Collection (National Library of Ireland)
HomeGallery-Option-FPG.qxp_Layout 1 16/05/2018 13:02 Page 1
THE OPTIONS RANGE HOME GALLERY ARE DELIGHTED TO LAUNCH THE NEW 'OPTIONS RANGE' OF MODULAR SOFAS.
20%
Looking for the perfect sofa or corner sofa for your home? But you just cannot find it! Well come on down to Home Gallery and view the new 'Options Range' of modular sofas.
OFF
THIS WEEKEND
The options range is European made and styled and offers 100's of options and configurations ensuring you get the perfect sofa to fit your room exactly. Best of all, to launch this new collection. WE ARE OFFERING 20% OFF THIS WEEKEND.
100
20
COLOURS
CONFIGURATIONS AVAILABLE
AVAILABLE
100
100
COLOURS AVAILABLE
20
COLOURS AVAILABLE
20
CONFIGURATIONS AVAILABLE
CONFIGURATIONS AVAILABLE
20
%
OFF
ENTURE COLLECTION THIS WEEKEND
AVAILABLE IN DIFFERENT SIZES AND OVER 100 COLOURS
OPEN Sunday 1pm-5pm Tues - Sat 9.30am-6pm
I N T E R I O R S Kilrush Rd, Ennis Ph: 065 6797040