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22 Feb 2018
Paul McGinley backs Lahinch for Irish Open
lSUPPORT: Paul McGinley at Lahinch Golfcourse Photo by Brian Arthur
STUART HOLLY
H
editor@clareecho.ie
UGE excitement presides in North Clare with the news that Lahinch is favourite to host the 2019 Irish Open, which is expected to attract golf’s biggest names and bring an unheralded tourism boost to Clare. Names such as Rory McIlroy and Sergio Garcia could soon be looking for accomodation in the coastal region after Paul McGinley officially recommended Lahinch to host the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open when he plays host to the €6 million Rolex Series event next year.
Chiefs from the European Tour will visit Lahinch as early as next month to study the feasibility of the historic Clare course hosting one of golf’s biggest events.
for full story: see page 4
Alternative Therapies
SEE OUR 5-PAGE FEATURE INSIDE
2 NEWS
THURSDAY, FEB 22 2018
Index
Inside The Clare Echo FEATURE: PAGE 25-29
Our alternative medicine guide
IRISH OPEN FOR CLARE? 4 BARRACK ST PLANS
6
CLARE’S SMOKE PLAN
9
This week we have a special guide on Alternative Medicine in Clare, which brings you tips on how to improve your health through various therapies
16
KILKEE BUSINESSES SPORT
19-22
HEALTH ADVICE
25-29
MOTORING
30-33
CLASSIFIEDS
36-37
GET IN TOUCH
NEWS: PAGE 6
SPORT: PAGE 19-22
Clare hurlers hit by scheduling
Critics need to quiten
Clare will travel to Wexford this weekend full of confidence however the management team have expressed concerns over scheduling with four players also set to line out for UL just 24 hours before the Clare game
In the wake of more positive announcements for Shannon Airport, Joe Carey TD says that the critics of our regional hub should be more supportive
RECEPTION
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NOTES
l BANNER FAITHFUL: Cheering on the Banner at the weekend were Tim Corbett, Gerry McNamara, Martin O’Sullivan, Michael Hanrahan and Rita O’Sullivan Photo by Martin Connolly
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5 new gardai for Clare
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LARE Chief Superintendent John Kerin has confirmed that five new Gardaí will be allocated to the county next month. “While I have yet to be told where they are being allocated to, I am confident some will go to Kilrush, as well as to Ennis,” Chief Supt Kerin said. Since training re-commenced for Gardaí, 25 have been allocated to Clare and all have been stationed in Ennis. Up to recently, Ennis was the only station in the county where trainee Gardaí could be posted, but Kilrush has recently been granted the same status. This means that when probationer Gardaí are being allocated to Clare in future, some will go to Ennis and some
will go to Kilrush. “Any additional Gardaí being allocated to a community will benefit it but even from a Garda perspective we find that young Gardaí bring youthful enthusiasm and vitality. “Those assigned as Tutor Gardaí take a personal interest in the career development of probationer Gardaí, as do their supervising sergeants,” Chief Supt Kerin added. During 2017, Co Clare had a net gain of 17 Gardaí coming in to the Clare Division when retirements, transfers out of the divisions and resignations were taken into consideration. “As the numbers coming into the force increase I am confident Clare will be allocated additional Gardaí,” Chief Supt Kerin said.
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4 NEWS
THURSDAY, FEB 22 2018
l IT’S GOAT TO BE...PERFECT: Paul McGinley at Lahinch Golfcourse, which he is backing to host the 2019 Irish Open golf tournament and would give the economy a huge boost Photo by Brian Arthur
Irish Open for Lahinch?
McGinley recommends Clare course to host multi-million euro event in 2019 STUART HOLLY
editor@clareecho.ie
H
UGE excitement presides in North Clare with the news that Lahinch Golf Course is favourite to host the 2019 Irish Open, which is expected to attract some of golf ’s biggest names and bring an unheralded tourism boost to Co Clare. Names such as Rory McIlroy (below) and Sergio Garcia could soon be looking for accomodation in the coastal region after Paul McGinley revealed that he wants to take the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open to Lahinch when he plays host to the €6 million Rolex Series event next year. Lahinch is no stranger to big-name golfers as the Old Course is often used by top professionals in preparation for The Open tournament in the UK and a host of celebs from Irish actor Jamie Dornan to legendary NBA star Michael Jordan have played on the historic links course. Dubliner and Ryder Cup legend McGinley has personally recommended the course to the European Tour, and apparently sets the Clare course apart in what will be a head-to-head with Ross’s Point Golf Course in Sligo to
host next year’s prestigiuos event. Chiefs from the European Tour will visit the venue as early as next month to study the feasibility of Lahinch hosting one of golf ’s biggest events. It’s believed parking, accomodation and accessibility will all be major factors in its success, however McGinley’s self-professed love of Lahinch could give the wonderful course the edge. In 1991, the 2014 Ryder Cup captain won the South of Ireland title, which is held at Lahinch every year and has hosted some local golfing fanatics such as Davy Fitzgerald. According to Brian Keogh of the Irish Independent, speaking last year at a special gathering of 23 South of Ireland champions held at Lahinch as part of the club’s 125th-anniversary celebrations, McGinley said: “I am very proud to be a South of Ireland champion. “Winning in 1991 was very important in my career because without winning the South of Ireland, I wouldn’t have made the Walker Cup team that year and without making the Walker Cup team, I wouldn’t have gone to the Tour School and without going to Tour School, I wouldn’t have been on Tour that year. “So it all evolved from my success here in Lahinch.” McGinley has already stated that it’s “imperative” that the 2019 Irish Open is held on the links course. The club hosted the Irish Professional Championship in 1961 when Christy O’Connor Snr won. McIroy will host the Irish Open for the fourth time at Ballyliffin from July 5-8 this year before handing over the hosting duties to McGinley in 2019.
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6 NEWS
Barrack St traders have their say on development
THURSDAY, FEB 22 2018
ELAINE TUBIDY
P
news@clareecho.ie
LANS for the redevelopment of Barrack Street are under review, following the concerns raised by local business owners. Cairde Café owner Ger Baker said that while he welcomes some of the changes, he is concerned that the plans might be too extensive. The original plans included provision of a central focal feature/gathering area, comprising a light-weight canopy structure; creation of a traffic calmed pedestrian-priority plaza with high quality surface materials; increased footpath widths along Barrack Street to encourage improved pedestrian linkage between the market and the square; introduction of street furniture (including public seating), lighting, artwork and trees; and oneway traffic from O’Connell St to Market Place. “I’m in favour of anything
l PLANS FOR REVAMP: Barrack Street, under new proposals, could see a canopy area along with a pedestrian-priority plaza however concerns have been raised about parking facilities
Stop undermining efforts of Shannon Airport, says Carey STUART HOLLY editor@clareecho.ie
WITH Ryanair adding two new routes and increasing frequency on a third scheduled service to the UK from Shannon, Clare Fine Gael TD Joe Carey has challenged the airport’s critics to stop undermining the region’s top infrastructural asset. He was speaking after Ryanair confirmed that the new Monday, Wednesday and Saturday service to Liverpool will start on May 19 while the Monday and Thursday service to Bristol will operate from May 17. The airline has also added Tuesdays and Wednesdays to its Manchester service which will now run six days weekly. Deputy Carey said that the new flights will add 60,000 extra seats at Shannon this summer and bring the number of destinations served by Ryanair from Shannon to 17. This follows confirmation that there will be additional transatlantic services by Norwegian Air and the new Reus-Barcelona service will start next month. Stating that the new and expanded services provide a great
opportunity for tourism operators in the Mid West, Deputy Carey said Britain was still Ireland’s biggest market and it was significant that, despite the uncertainty surrounding Brexit, Shannon was adding new services into the UK “That is a sign that the workers and management at Shannon are doing their utmost to secure the airport’s future and constant criticism of their efforts is both unfair and unfounded. Much of this criticism fails to take account of the amount of work needed to establish it as a viable independent entity,” he explained. “The people who are now writing Shannon off as a failure are the same people who were opposed to it achieving its independence from the Dublin Airport Authority and becoming a publicly owned commercial airport in January 2013.” He added, “It is no surprise that every announcement of foreign direct investment in the Mid-West cites the connectivity provided by Shannon Airport as a key factor in their investment decision”.
that’s going to be positive but you know I’m worried to some extent about businesses losing business after what we saw in the Market. That’s kind of been an eye opener for a lot of us up here,” Ger said. He is in favour of measures such as widening the footpaths, however Ger is concerned about the lack of parking in the new plans and the introduction of a one-way system. He is also apprehensive about how the works could affect the level of trade in the Barrack St area. Ger believes that a more organic approach to developing the Barrack St plaza would be more effective. “I’ve seen it come through the changes and what works is organic growth, little bit by little bit. If it works its great and if not, its reversible, not major overhauling of something that isn’t tried and tested,” he added. A spokesperson for the Council said they are reviewing the current plans following a meeting with local business owners.
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8 NEWS
THURSDAY, FEB 22 2018
‘Very few pubs’ selling the required 1,600 pints a week SEÁN HOWARD & ELAINE TUBRIDY
C
news@clareecho.ie
are still vulnerable according to Tony Morrissey, the managing director of pub specialist auctioneering firm Morrissey’s. He said “If a pub is not turning over 8000—9000 a week in rural areas, then it will be very difficult to survive”. The AIB Outlook report for 2018 found that the industry is on the road to recovery with significant demand for pubs particularly in urban areas. And an increasing number of Irish publicans are accepting card payments, with some Dublin city centre pubs achieving 80 per cent of their turnover
‘‘
Whoever came up with that figure is out of their mind
‘‘
LARE’S rural pubs have to turnover at least €8000 a week or they will not survive, according to a new report. That works out at 1,600 pints per week, or 20 barrells, or 533 punters buying three drinks. According to John Quinlivan, owner of The Honk bar near Shannon Airport, “very few pubs in rural areas are doing that”. Many rural publicans are having to rely on a second income like farming, undertaking and taxi to make ends meet. “It’s very quiet and most other publicans would tell you the same,” John added. A West Clare publican, who didn’t want to be named, commented: “Whoever came up with the figure of €8,000 is out of their mind. It’s not realistic in the West of Ireland”. “The industry is dying on its feet” “Half of rural publicans need to have some sort of other business to keep going. They have a farm, a shop, or a taxi service. If they didn’t do that, they wouldn’t survive”. AIB’s Pub Outlook report states that there are currently 291 public houses in County Clare which represents one pub for 383 people in the county. This means that the Banner County has the fourth highest punter to pub ratio in Ireland. Despite the growth, many publicans
from credit and debit cards according to Visa. The days of rummaging for cash for your tipple may be coming to an end. “A lot of country pubs are only open because they have always been open,” John added.
l RURAL PUBLICAN: The Honk Bar near Shannon, run by the Quinlivans, faces the same struggles as all rural pubs across the county
NEWS
THURSDAY, FEB 22 2018
Smoking at Clare beaches could be stomped out...
9
ELAINE TUBRIDY
elaine.tubridy@clareecho.ie
S
MOKING in Co Clare’s public areas could soon be a thing of the past, following a motion to introduce a prohibition on smoking in all public facilities owned or operated by the local authority. The initiative would see a smoking ban in all public parks, playgrounds and eventually busy beaches such as Lahinch and Kilkee. Mayor of Clare Tom McNamara, along with Councillors Ann Norton, P.J. Ryan and Pat Burke, raised the issue at the recent council meeting. “We want to extend the ban to those areas because we have a responsibility as a public body to ensure that people are protected from tobacco smoke,” Mayor McNamara said on Monday evening at Council headquarters in Ennis. Mayor McNamara confirmed that he was happy with the response he received as the Council agreed to pass the proposal on to the Strategic Policy Committee for consideration. “At a strategic level, the Rural Development Directorate will shortly begin the process of preparing a ‘Healthy Clare Strat-
l KEEP IT CLEAN: Smoking in all public facilities run by Clare Co Council, such as Kilkee beach (above) could be a thing of the past Photo by Julie Tillett
Elderflower & Forest Fruit Lemonade Captains Mango & Passion Fruit Daiquiri Very Berry Smoothie West Clare Huevos Overnight Oats
Armada Eggs Benedict
Potted Irish Strawberries
Burren Smoked Salmon
Chicken Caesar Salad
Smoked Haddock & Sweet Potato Fish Cake Hot & Spicy Chicken Wings
Belgian Waffles Johnny Burkes Knickerbocker Glory
Classic Fish & Chips
egy’ and the consultation process could consider this proposal and any emerging policy for inclusion in the Strategy,” Director of Rural Development Leonard Cleary commented. When asked if he thought it was realistic to introduce a smoking ban in all public areas, Mayor McNamara pointed out that a smoking ban in the workplace would have been considered almost impossible 20 years ago. He added that Clare should take the lead when it comes to initiatives relating to reducing smoking in public. He told The Clare Echo, “Everybody said it wasn’t going to work in the workplace in the restaurants or the bars and the pubs and it has happened. The initiative was taken to ban it in all education and HSE campuses and there is good progress in that. Everybody thought it would never happen. “But we have to be strong and take those initiatives. It’s going to take a good bit of education on the part of the people as well but look we need to take some action. There is too many people suffering because of cigarette smoking,” Mayor McNamara added.
10 NEWS
THURSDAY, FEB 22 2018
STUART HOLLY
“This plan recognises the strategic importance of Clare with our strong network of towns and villages and proven track record in attracting foreign direct investment and our tourism development,” said Minister Breen. According to Mr Breen, €150 million will be invested over the period to 2022 by the Shannon Group, with €100 million invested in the continued development of the Shannon Free Zone. “Also included in this capital programme, is the construction of a wide body paint hangar at Shannon Airport. “Shannon Heritage is also committed the €10 million redevelopment of Bunratty Castle in partnership with Fáilte Ireland. Project Ireland 2040 will also see substantial investment in our national heritage including plans to develop visitor amenities at the Burren.” He added that villages across Clare will be in a position to benefit from a new Rural Regeneration and Development Fund.
2040 plan will benefit Clare C
editor@clareecho.ie
LARE and the Mid West will benefit from real investment and proper planning as a result of Project Ireland 2040. Minister for Trade, Employment, Business, EU Digital Single Market & Data Protection Pat Breen TD said the plan will support families and strengthen communities in Clare, and will ensure sustainable growth for the future of the county. Speaking about Project 2040 which was launched by Government on Friday, Minister Breen said, “It is time to plan for what Ireland is going to look like in 2040. For the first time in the history of the State, our spatial planning is backed up with solid investment and it will deliver for our citizens. “Our population is expected to have
l OPENING: Mayor McNamara and Minister Pat Breen point the way as the new integrated pitches in Kilrush are opened Photo by Eamon Ward
increased to six million people by 2040 and, without any State intervention, this will result in ongoing shift in population
and jobs towards Dublin and the neighbouring counties. This is not in anyone’s interests.
OPEN Monday to Saturday
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l SAY IT AIN’T SNOW: Installing salt grit bins at schools around the county has been proposed at council level
Grit bins a possibility for schools GRIT bins could soon be installed at schools around Co Clare to enable children to access their school safely. Independent Councillor PJ Ryan submitted a motion to Clare County Council requesting that the Council would install a salt/grit bin adjacent to all National Schools in the county that are not on the routes where a gritting service is provided. Senior Engineer Tom Tiernan replied that while he understood the reasoning behind the idea, he was concerned that it would be difficult to implement. He pointed out that there are a considerable number of schools throughout the county which aren’t located adjacent to salting routes
and what is proposed would absorb significant resources – particularly if there is an accompanying expectation that the Council would carry all the responsibilities that go with it. “I am very disappointed with the reply. I really think that we have no regard for schoolchildren in this county,” Cllr Ryan said. Councillor Gerry Flynn suggested using the grit bins that were installed in Shannon in the harsh winter of 2009. “I don’t see the negative in the reply, it gives an opening for engagement,” he added. Clare County Council CEO Pat Dowling confirmed that he would explore that idea further.
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12 INTERACTIVE
THURSDAY, FEB 22 2018
A new era of
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Facebook comment Tweet of the week of the week
‘‘
‘‘I can Sea You.” Conor Flanagan
in reaction to our picture: Where’s Wally? A thousand brave souls taking part in Run Clare Lahinch 5 Mile, in association with The Clare Echo.
MARTY MORRISSEY @MartyM_RTE
Thank you - can’t believe it. I really, really appreciate every single vote and thank you to each and everyone who voted. Let the #martyparty continue! #DWTSIrl
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Ryanair announces new routes for Shannon SHANNON Airport is on the up, up and away as Ryanair is about to add two new routes and increase frequency on an existing UK service. The airline today put on sale its new three times weekly (Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays) Liverpool service from Saturday, May 19 and a twice weekly (Mondays and Thursdays) Bristol service from Thursday, May 17. Welcoming the announcement, Shannon Group CEO Matthew Thomas said that 2018 is going to be a year of growth for Shannon. “We’re gearing up very well for 2018. We’ve already had the announcement of additional transatlantic services this year, and we now have this very positive move by Ryanair for our UK schedule to add to the new Reus-Barcelona service Ryanair is starting in March”. Ryanair has also added Tuesdays and
Wednesdays to its popular Manchester service from Shannon, which will now run six days weekly. The additional services and Manchester extension will add 60,000 extra seats at Shannon this summer. The two new services bring to 17 the number of destinations that will be served by Ryanair from Shannon this year. Said Shannon Airport Managing Director Andrew Murphy: “Liverpool and Bristol are popular outbound destinations from Shannon but both also have an inbound opportunity for this region. “Tourism Ireland’s support for these services is very much in acknowledgement of that and their commitment will lead to additional tourists coming into the region and they must be commended for that.”
NEWS 13
THURSDAY, FEB 22 2018
BEAUTY: Model Victoria O’Connell showcasing Ennis Bridal Boutique
CAPTIVE AUDIENCE: Jenny McCarthy sharing her knowledge
Photo: John Mangan
Photo: John Mangan
Wedding bliss Celebrity wedding photographer Jenny McCarthy showcases her talent in The Old Ground Hotel
ENJOYING THE DAY: Anna Idziak and Josh Spellman at the tasting table Photo: John Mangan
FAMOUS FACES: Martin King and wife Jenny McCarthy Photo: John Mangan
SWEET MUSIC: Elaine Hogan playing the harp beautifully Photo: John Mangan
ALL STYLE: Maeve Flouch and Gwen Culligan of County Boutique with Jenny McCarthy (centre)
Photo: John Mangan
14 COMMUNITY
THURSDAY, FEB 22 2018
The scene
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Wild Atlantic yay!
CONTACT US WE’RE ON FACEBOOK, TWITTER AND INSTAGRAM #CE
PICS THE Run Clare Lahinch 5 Mile Run attracted runners from across the country and despite wild conditions on the Wild Atlantic Way last Sunday, fun and fitness was still the order of the day. More than 1,000 participants have signed up for the Run Clare Series, and the second edition of this year’s races lived up to its wonderful setting with runners, walkers, parents with prams, and children all taking part. First to cross the finish line was Kevin Chesser of Ennis Track in a time of 27m24s. He finished first in the men’s section, followed very closely by his clubmate Michael Maher and David Richardson (GoTri Triathlon Club) who finished second in the Barefiled 5k.
In the ladies section, Madeline Loughnane of Thurles Crokes backed up her Barefield win with a time of 31.41, followed again by Shona O’Flynn (Dooneen AC) and Aisling Ahern of Brú AC in third place with a time of 35.30. The Run Clare series continues next month in Ennis on March 31 with the Eamon Moloney Memorial 10k run, which is a fast urban run set in the county capital. The Run Clare Series is sold out but there is availability for single race entries. Early booking is advised for the Eamon Moloney Memorial run.
For details go to runclare.com or follow us on Facebook.
l WE DID IT: Teresa Sheerin-Ryan crosses the line with a friend after taking on the hills of Lahinch; (below left) Paul Fleming’s adorable pet lab with his finishers medal; (below right) Brock Seanahedi is all smiles Photos by Eileesh Buckley
COMMUNITY 15
THURSDAY, FEB 22 2018
SUPER SHIRLEY: The team from Supermacs Ennis (L-R) Zac, Emily, owner Shirley Gillespie, Kelly and Michelle
l QUICK MOVERS: (top) Kevin Chesser of Ennis Track raises his finger in celebration after finishing first overall in a wonderful time of 27min 24s; (above) Madeline Loughnane of Thurles Crokes crosses the line as the fastest female; (below) Rory Clancy is just pipped to the finish line by the occupant of his pram
Photos by Eileesh Buckley
CLEAR HEAD, FULL HEART: More than a thousand runners of all levels taknig part in the Lahinch leg of the Run Clare series Photo by Eileesh Buckley
16 SUPPORT LOCAL
THURSDAY, FEB 22 2018
BUSINESS PROFILE CONTACT US WE’RE ON FACEBOOK, TWITTER AND INSTAGRAM #CE
Locals keep Kilkee vibrant all year round Irish House and Hair by Sara say local support keeps them thriving
W
lCOMMUNITY FOCUS: Peter and Carmel Muldoon of the Irish House (inset)
HEN you think of Kilkee, images of days at the beach and long summer evenings balmed out in the beer garden spring to
mind. A lot of Kilkee’s businesses (understandably) shut up shop when the tourists are gone and the summer season is over. But there are a few stalwarts that stick out the long winter months to provide vital services to the local community. Two such enterprises are The Irish House and Hair by Sara. The Irish House, which has been selling newspapers and essentials to the people of Kilkee for the last 25 years, is about to relaunch as an exciting new venture. Carmel Muldoon and her team have been working hard to transform one of the oldest buildings in Kilkee into vintage inspired tea rooms. “We’re trying to keep a lot of the old features and stone walls and the upstairs of it is what we are doing. Keeping the old style wooden floors and opening up a couple of the fire places and just to have it nice and cozy and inviting. “We have lovely bay windows in the front of the shop as well so that will be a nice spot. You get the sun there that will be nice and inviting for everybody hopefully,” Carmel said. Carmel has been delighting locals with her tasty confectionary for the last couple of years and she plans to add soup and sandwiches to the tea room menu. Sara Howell is about to celebrate her first year of business in Kilkee. Having spent some time working in Kilrush, Sara built up a loyal customer base
and she spotted a gap in the market in Kil- especially during the winter. kee. “To be honest I think it’s very important in “A lot of my clients would be from further the likes of the smaller towns because this back west, Carrigaholt and Doonbeg etc. so time of year you don’t have the tourist indusit’s easier for them rather than travelling try in the winter time. another 20 minutes in the car to “You get it from Easter to the end Kilrush, which is great because of August and it is really important a lot of clients have followed that everyone does look out IRISH HOUSE me here,” Sara said. for each other and come in She started hairdressto the town. Even the likes RELAUNCH ing at the tender age of of at Christmas time people 15 and has built up a The Irish House, which has would just bypass the smallwealth of knowledge towns like Kilkee and just been selling essentials to the er and expertise in the go straight to Limerick. people of Kilkee for the last area. “So to keep the smaller Though there are 25 years, is about to relaunch as towns going you need to an exciting new venture with be spending time in your lomany routes available for starting a hairdressing the introduction of a vintage cal area because otherwise career, she decided to go you will lose all of the facilities inspired tea rooms to Limerick Senior College. that are there then,” Sara said. “A lot of hairdressers don’t Carmel said it’s important to go to college, they don’t feel t h e keep all the main streets in rural Ireneed to go, but for me I think you learn an land busy and to keep the schools and GAA awful lot more of the science behind hair clubs going. when you do go to college and it was a great “We want to open all year round, that’s the way for me to learn what’s in a colour, why plan. A lot of the businesses come and go, you use the colour, bits like that,” Sara said. they’re open in the summer time and once Both women pointed out that their busi- the crowds are gone they close up and go. nesses would not be able to survive if it We’re open every day. We have been for the wasn’t for the support of the local people, last 25 years,” Carmel added.
l YEAR-ROUND: Hair By Sara in Kilkee
Caroline Bourke
THURSDAY, FEB 22 2018
COLUMNIST 17 lFOUNDATION: Evens the complexion and conceals pigmentation
MAKE-UP AND STYLE
KEY TO LAYING THE RIGHT FOUNDATION Here is a list of my top three foundations with reviews on coverage, skin type and shade selection
F
OUNDATION plays such an important role in your makeup routine. It evens the complexion and conceals pigmentation. It's not always easy, however, to find a foundation to match your skin type or one that matches your skin tone. Don't worry, I'm here to help! Here is a list of my top three foundations with reviews on coverage, skin type and shade selection.
LAURA MERCIER
Laura Mercier Candleglow Luminous Foundation is a gorgeous foundation for those who like sheer to medium finish with buildable coverage. This foundation's lightweight formula creates a dewy luminous glow and is ideal for occasion or bridal makeup. I would recommend you set this with a translucent powder. This may not be the best foundation for oily skin as it might be a bit too dewy, but it is cosmogenic, so it's guaranteed to keep your pores clean. The product comes in some pretty packaging which adds to its appeal. There are 24 shades to choose from and if you are between shades, always opt for the lighter one with this particular foundation as it has a tendency to oxidise.
BOBBI BROWN FOUNDATION
Bobbi Brown Skin Foundation is another favourite of mine and it's suited to all skin types. You will always find it in my makeup
bag! This is a very natural looking lightweight foundation that enhances your skin and makes it look that bit better than it did before using it. It offers sheer to medium coverage and has an inbuilt SPF. The creamy, blendable foundation works a charm for visibly reducing pores and the satin finish minimises the appearance of fine lines. The product also makes the skin look clear by reducing the appearance of blemishes. This is a great foundation if you want your skin to look like skin.
DIORSKIN
Finally, I love Diorskin Forever Flawless Perfection by Dior, which is an excellent foundation for bridal looks. It is perfect for special occasions as it offers excellent coverage with a velvety finish, all while looking completely natural. According to Dior this is 'a couture foundation that provides sun protection and a flawless second-skin finish for all day wear' and I couldn't agree more. The foundation's satin texture makes it look so natural and it lasts for ages. I would recommend using this with a moisturiser though, as it can be a little bit drying. The formula includes SPF 25 and comes in 12 shades. Have you tried any of these? What's your favourite foundation? Let me know by messaging me on Facebook or tagging me on Twitter or Instagram.
l FLAWLESS COMPLEXION: It's all about a good base
18
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
THURSDAY, FEB 22 2018
Ronan Scully
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK Author spreading the word of positivity
Put a Spring in your step S This time of year can be an opportunity for mental and spiritual renewal
PRING is here and it is a time of life reflections, change, birds singing brightly in the air, rebirth, refocusing and growth. It is an occasion to reflect into the oasis of one’s beautiful soul, mind and heart, and carry out a spiritual loving spring cleaning. It is a time to energize one’s aspirations, hopes, goals and dreams, to fulfill one’s purpose, mission and vision for one’s life. Spring is a time of the dawning of new light, new life, new spirit, new birth, new beginnings, new momentum and new hope. It is a time of waiting, of expectation, a time of preparing new ground, planting new plants, nurturing new seedlings, tending new shoots, protecting new buds. It is a time of dreaming new dreams, thinking new thoughts, making new plans, growing new goals and welcoming a new hope. It is a time of holding tight the fragile, embracing the vulnerable, nurturing the young, protecting the old, saving those on the edges of our communities and a time to recommit and begin again the work of our lives of caring for one another as we ourselves would like to be cared for on our daily journey through life. The weather is changing, plants and flowers are blooming and more. The season of spring is now beginning to show itself in full bloom and hopefully please God it might give us a sweet taste of the warm summer days to look forward to. Hopefully it will give us a new spring in our step. I love the season of Spring. REINVIGORATING: Spring clean
It brings days of new warmth and gives obvious signs of awakening and renewal wherever we look. It amazes me how the evenings start to lengthen and how the warmth comes back into the air. But nothing is as beautiful as all the trees, flowers, shrubs and bushes that are in bloom or start budding lots of green shoots. It is truly a beautiful, magical and wonderful time of our year. This spring, in addition to the typical spring cleaning, I have decided to rid myself of some thoughts and behaviors that no longer help me or cause me to feel down and so I am looking at a spiritual form of spring cleaning as well.
SPIRITUAL: Positive change
A SPIRITUAL SPRING CLEANING
Spring is the time of year when many people take on “spring cleaning” projects inside and outside their homes and offices. But what about inside your heart and inside your soul? Since we put so much time and effort into cleaning our homes, offices and outer self at this spring time of the year, shouldn’t we also do some spiritual spring cleaning of our heart, soul and inner self? There comes a time when we must clean out the wardrobes of our life so that we may have room for items that will enhance our life. Let’s search the wardrobes of our lives and make a trip to the rubbish bin. Throw away any hatred that may be lurking there and be sure to toss out jealousy, bad attitudes, dishonesty, complaints and hypocrisy. Before you finish,
throw away that grudge you’ve been carrying against someone. Make room to add love, honesty, forgiveness and kindness and not to mention thankfulness for all God’s blessings. Go on and make room for reverence and respect for God from whom all good gifts come. Stand back and look: Your life’s wardrobe is looking better, isn’t it? Take a moment today to spring clean your heart and soul. Ask God to come in and if He finds anything else that should not be there, take it out so that you can live a life more loving and caring. Try and change those behaviors that have not helped you to achieve your targets or aims in life. Look at replacing old ways of thinking and reflecting, that hold you back, with new thoughts that will inspire you and help you to enjoy more this journey called life. If something in your life is not fulfilling you as it should be, maybe set limits or determine if it is time to move on and discover things that do fulfill you. Also consider if you can whether your thoughts and behaviors are a reflection of the real you and always especially at Springtime which is a good time to reflect on things, try to renew and refresh your aims and purpose to look towards a better future and give your life some momentum again. Spring is the perfect time to effect a positive change in our lives because the ever-lengthening
days of warmth and light and all of nature’s responses to them are powerful cues for new growth. Spring urges us to plant some, grow some and bloom some. Spring brings us new hope that one day those of us searching for the light at the end of our tunnel will see the light shine through claiming victory over our burdens and worries. Somehow the battle feels less overwhelming when the spring warmth of the sun shines through after the winter hardness’s in our lives. It’s as though God is telling us he is here to help us find the courage to keep our spirits upbeat and feel younger. It will hopefully bring us our resurrection moment! For me there is no more invigorating time of the year than Spring.
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
As your thought for the week, I pray that as the signs and the magic of spring begin to show themselves all around us and that you will remember that each new day is like a cleared field ready for planting. Your thoughts, attitudes, and actions are the seeds you plant. Plant three rows of peas: Peace of mind, Peace of heart, Peace of soul. Plant four rows of squash: Squash gossip, Squash indifference, Squash grumbling, Squash selfishness. Plant four rows of lettuce: Lettuce be faithful, Lettuce
be kind, Lettuce be obedient, Lettuce really love one another. No garden should be without turnips: Turnip for meetings, Turnip for service, Turnip to help one another. Water freely with patience and cultivate love. There is much fruit for your garden. Because you reap what you sow. To conclude our garden. We must have thyme: Thyme for God, Thyme for study, Thyme for prayer, Thyme for loved ones, Thyme for each other, Thyme for friends. This Spring and always, choose only the seeds that will produce a bountiful harvest of love, joy, health, kindness, care, prosperity, and peace. And may you give thanksgiving not only for the springtime around you, but also for the springtime within you. Why don’t you this Spring, clean out hate and replace it with love. Clean out pride and replace it with humility. Clean out anger and replace it with self control. Clean out unbelief and replace it with faith. Clean out revenge, and replace it with forgiveness. Clean out complaining and replace it with praise. Clean out evil thoughts and replace them with pure thoughts. Clean out gossip and replace it with encouragement. Clean out laziness and replace it with caring. Happy Spring cleaning everyone!
Clare make it three in a row page 20
Ennis RFC into Cup final page 21
Sport l BUSY SCHEDULE: Tony Kelly, pictured here signing young Kilfenora man Paraic Murphy’s shirt, is among four players lining out for UL. (inset) Lauren and Tommy Guilfoyle Photos by Martin Connolly at Cusack Park last Sunday
Moloney: ‘Schedule is crazy’ LAUREN GUILFOYLE
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HE history books would have to be dusted off as far back as 1997 to read about a season where Clare got the better of hurling’s traditional Big Three, but the answer to this pub quiz question must be updated as the first three rounds of the National Hurling League has seen Clare secure maximum points with successive victories over Tipperary, Kilkenny and most recently, Cork. A fruitful 20 minute period before half time indicated Clare had this game to lose from an early stage having outscored the Rebels 0-11 to 0-1, the Banner’s second quarter momentum enhanced with an against the odds goal chance saved off Donal Tuohy’s line, whose excellent form would continue throughout. Despite Clare stretching their lead to 12 points, Cork managed to utilise the strong wind at their backs to raise sufficient white flags to limit the deficit to four points with Tuohy on hand at the death to defy a late Patrick Horgan 20-metre free and see Clare assume top spot of the Division 1A table. Into their second season as joint-managers, Donal Moloney and Gerry O’Connor (below) seem to be reverting from the inherited short passing style of play to adapt
Clare management unhappy with schedule as they attempt to broaden panel with trip to Wexford Park this weekend a more direct, free flowing game plan which saw them claim a trio of All Ireland U21 hurling titles with a vast majority of the current senior panel. Despite Cork reducing the 12 point lead to just four heading into injury time, Moloney isn’t worried: “Our conversion rate dropped a little bit. We’re hugely positive about the effort the lads put in, we were still hurling well throughout large parts of the a second half and I think we probbly didn’t finish as many as we should have, but having said that we did some great hurling”. A constant sound bite from County managements has been the need to “build a panel for Championship” and Clare continued to broaden their hand with particular depth at their apparent disposal in defensive quarters. Following on from his man of the match performance in the opening round clash at home to Tipperary, David Fitz-
gerald stepped aside to allow Intermediate club championship winner Michael O’Malley his National Hurling league debut, his introduction amplified with two long range points earning his own man of the match metal for the mantlepiece that didn’t come as a shock to Moloney: “I wasn’t surprised with Mikey with the confidence he has, he played brilliantly today”. David McInerney seems to be enjoying his time at centre back while Seadna Morey surpassed 1,000 minutes of competitive action in a Clare jersey since the rotation in management, the majority of which being played at wing back. Jamie Shanahan and Paul Flanagan are also poised to make their return, aiming to play their way into a starting position as business end of the league looms. With four players involved in the final of the Fitzgibbon Cup 23 hours prior to their next clash with Davy Fitzgerald’s Wexford, Clare’s backroom team may choose to shake up their starting 15 to
accommodate the University of Limerick students: “I think the scheduling is crazy. These are big games for us and the fact they’ve a Fitzgibbon final on the day before and four of our players are tied up on it, that’s not okay in our book”. Tony Kelly, Conor Cleary, David Fitzgerald and Ian Galvin will line out against DCU on Saturday afternoon in Mallow against a DCU selection and may be expected to travel the following day. Limerick’s John Kiely and Tipperary’s Michael Ryan have ruled out the involvement of their large contingent of players for their league clashes with Antrim and Kilkenny respectively. Following on from the decision of Cusack Park’s unsuitability to host the Senior Camogie team’s league fixture with Meath last weekend, Clare’s hurlers travel to the sunny southeast with their fourth round clash acting as part one of a double header with Wexford’s senior camogie team facing Galway in a winner-takes-also last round battle to decide which team is rewarded with the second qualification spot to the semi final stages. The Clare camogie team meanwhile have a tough task ahead as they need a big scoring difference from their game with Dublin to see them qualify alongside Kilkenny.
20 SPORT
THURSDAY, FEB 22 2018
Banner men make it three wins in a row NHL Division 1A Round 3 at Cusack Park
Hurling
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JAMES MULVIHILL
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LARE continued their winning ways in this league campaign after a narrow victory over Cork in Cusack Park on Sunday. Man of the Match Michael O’Malley was outstanding, scoring long range points and setting up attacks. Donal Tuohy produced some top class saves throughout this contest and proved why he is Clare’s first choice goal-keeper. David Reidy yet again played very well a t wing forward and i s becoming a very important player on this team. However, the Banner men still have a lot of work to do in terms of finishing teams off when we have them on the ropes as was seen against Kilkenny. Having said that, Clare can travel to Wexford Park full of confidence knowing they have secured a place in the knock-out stages - but they will need to be wary of a Wexford backlash following their defeat to Tipperary. Cork arrived in Cusack Park with big travelling support and John Meyler will be pleased with the attitude his team showed in the second half after trailing by 11 points
Clare hit a purple patch scoring seven points in 15 minutes
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Clare 0-23 Cork 0-19
at half-time. Cork host Waterford on Sunday and need a victory to stay in the hunt for a place in the knock-out stages. Clare scored the opening point through a placed ball from Peter Duggan. Cork hit back with a well taken point by Luke Meade but Clare took the lead again thanks to John Conlon before a brilliant team move involving David McInerney, Niall Deasy and Seadna Morey who made no mistake in splitting the posts. Duggan and Patrick Horgan exchanged frees to leave the score at 0-04 to 0-02 after seven minutes. David Reidy extended the lead to three points, which was cancelled out by two placed balls from Horgan. Clare then hit a purple patch scoring seven points in a 15-minute period which proved decisive by the end of this game. Tony Kelly scored his first point of this contest after great work by Colm Galvin. The Banner men extended the lead to five points through Duggan (3 frees). Cork created the first goal chance when Robbie O’Flynn found Seamus Harne-
l ON A ROLL: (main image) Seadna Morey tangling with Cork’s Bill Cooper; (left) Shane O’Donnell setting up an attack; (below left) Cork’s Tim O’Mahony finds David Reidy too hot to handle; (below right) John Conlon scores a point despite an attempted block Credit: Martin Connolly
dy in space and his shot produced a very good save by Tuohy, resulting in a 65 which Horgan failed to convert. Clare took complete control and scores by the impressive O’Malley, Galvin and Conlon left the score at 0-12 to 0-04 after 29 minutes. Clare finished the half very well scoring four points through Podge Collins, Galvin, Deasy and Duggan (65) to leave the score at 0-16 to 0-05. Cork started the second half with more intent scoring four of the opening five points through Horgan (2 frees), Tim O’Mahony and Robbie O’Flynn. Scores by Morey and an inspirational point from O’Malley kept The Rebels at bay until they hit a purple patch of their own. Mark Ellis, Darren Browne, Bill Cooper and Horgan (free) closed the gap to six points with 20 minutes remaining. A Duggan free, a Kelly point thanks to great link-up play with Shane O’Donnell, and a Reidy point was followed by three Cork points without reply. Another fine save by Donal Tuohy, resulting in a 65 was converted by Patrick Horgan. Duggan was on target once again from a placed ball before Horgan scored the final two points of this contest from frees. Cork tried everything to get a goal to make it a grand stand finish, but to their cred-
it Clare’s defence stood firm and held on to record their third victory of this campaign.
Clare: Donal Tuohy; Jack Browne, Conor Cleary, Patrick O’Connor; Michael O’Malley (0-2), David McInerney, Seadna Morey (0-2); Colm Galvin (0-2), Tony Kelly (0-2); Niall Deasy (0-1), John Conlon (0-2), David Reidy (0-3); Shane O’Donnell, Peter Duggan (0-8,6fs,2 65’s), Podge Collins (0-1). Subs: Cathal Malone for Conlon (50 mins), Conor McGrath for Collins (56 mins), Daragh Corry for Deasy (59 mins), David Fitzgerald for O’Malley (65 mins), Jason McCarthy for Galvin (66 mins). Cork: Anthony Nash; Sean O’Donoghue, Eoin Cadogan, Colm Spillane; Darren Browne (0-1), Tim O’Mahony (01), Christopher Joyce; Mark Ellis (0-1), Luke Meade (0-1), Robbie O’Flynn (0-1), Seamus Harnedy (0-1), Bill Cooper (01), Daniel Kearney, Patrick Horgan (012,9fs,2 65’s), Shane Kingston. Subs: Lorcan McLoughlin for Kearney (H/T), Rob O’Shea for Kingston (44 mins), Jack O’Connor for Meade (51 mins), Brian Lawton for O’Flynn (60 mins). Referee: Paudi O’Dwyer (Carlow).
SPORT 21
THURSDAY, FEB 22 2018
Ennis through to cup final Ennis 31 Killorglin 6
critical times with the final pass not sticking and a knock-on following a great kick return by Cian Guilfoyle, meaning the score remained at 14-3 at half-time. However with the wind behind them for the second half, the foundations had been laid for victory. Killorglin applied an early period of pressure in the second half and converted a penalty in front of the posts to make it 14-6. However that was a good as it got for the Kerry men. A second try for Sean O’Mahony left the score at 19-6, and with about 15 minutes to go Mike McMahon snuck in for a try after a strong carry from a 5m scrum. A great try from Ronan O’Halloran to finish the game left the final score at 31-6. Ennis now go through to the final where they will face Dungarvan, while they meet Fermoy in Ennis this weekend in the league. Meanwhile, both Ennis girls teams won convincingly at the weekend and progress to the Bowl Finals on March 3. The U15s beat Abbeyfeale 45-29 and the U18s beat Ballina/Killaloe 36-12.
Martin O’Sullivan Cup 2pm, Lee’s Rd ENNIS RFC have continued their hot streak by reaching the final of the Martin O’Sullivan League Cup. The Clare side, who are flying high in Munster’s Junior Division 3, showed their growing credentials in the Cup by comprehensively defeating Killorglin - who earlier this season accounted for Ennis in the league. The fixture was moved from the rugby club to Lee’s Road and a dominant performance from start to finish gave Ennis the victory, 31-6. Ronan O’Halloran and Seán Mahony scored two tries each and Mike McMahon chipped in with another. The reward is a final against Dungarvan next Sunday, with the venue to be confirmed. A great start by Ennis saw a last-ditch tackle from Killorglin save a certain try – however an ensuing 5m scrum saw Mike McMahon carry and his off load to Ronan O’Halloran yielded the try, which was converted by Ronan O’Mahony to leave it 7-0. Ennis were playing into a strong wind however it wasn’t long before they made it 12-0, with Sean O’Mahony scoring on his debut after charging down the full back.
DETERMINED: Cian Nugent and Dylan Tynan make a tackle
The conversion made it 14-0, however Killorglin clawed back three points with a penalty soon after to make it 14-3. In the next phase of play, Ennis shifted the ball wide and then powered through the
Photo by Helen McQuillan
middle however a knock-on deep in the Killorglin 22 saw them fail to capitalise. Ennis however continued to look dangerous every time they moved the ball however the pressure didn’t yield scores due to mistakes at
Padraig McGrath
Ennis: A Ryan, Joe Moloney, L Ryan; J Considine, J Queally; E Galvin, A O’Shea, M McMahon; C Guilfoyle, R O’Holloran; C Collins, C Nugent; Dylan Tynan O’Mahony; S Mahony, J Martin; Subs; J Smith, N Downes, D Flynn, B Murphy, S Hayes
PGA Golf Professional #Padraigknowsbest
GOLF ANALYSIS
Putt pace first to save time on the greens...
O
NE of the biggest inconsistency I
see with golfers is their pace when it comes to putting. The pace of the ball approaching the hole is more important than the line. For instance you may hit a putt that is headed towards the edge of the hole not the centre and the ball still falls into the cup because the pace of the putt was perfect. If like Rory McIlroy you hit your putts firm you then make the hole much smaller in size. That’s why Rory gets punished when he hits a putt towards the left or right edge his ball generally lips out or hops over the edge. If the pace of his putting was better you would see him have little or no three putts. The best putters out there, Jordan Spieth, Tiger Woods (pictured right), Brandt Snedeker, have one thing in common when they miss a putt it’s generally within inches of the hole. Their golf ball is approaching the hole at a pace that is giving it every opportunity to drop even if the ball
catches the edge of the cup.
HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR PUTTING PACE: One major issue I notice with golfers of all levels is, the length of their back stroke is almost the same length regardless the distance they are from the hole. They simply take back the putter the same distance for a five foot putt as they do for a 25 foot
putt and just try to hit the ball harder. Your distance control will never be consistent if you don’t lengthen your back stroke for longer putts. In the image you will see numbers 1 - 12. For a five foot putt I would roughly bring my putter back to 4 and follow through to at least 9. If I have a twenty foot putt I would bring my stroke to at least 1 and through to 12. Therefore when your need more speed you get it from creating a longer arc or stroke. I don’t feel like I’m hitting the ball must firmer on a long putt when the arc of my stroke is longer the momentum naturally hits the ball further. Next time your on the putting green simply work on your pace and the length of your putting stroke and you will find you will hold more putts and have far less three putts than before once you improve your pace. Always make sure your follow through stroke is the same length or longer than
your back stroke. This will ensure your putter head is accelerating through impact helping you to get the ball to the hole. Therefore in the image if you bring your putter head back to 1 at least go to 12 on the follow through. You may also have to shorten your stroke on faster greens and lengthen it on slower greens.
22 SPORT
THURSDAY, FEB 22 2018
Clare Minors make flying start to 2018 Ladies Minor B Championship: Clare 4-12 Limerick 1-4 in Kilrush
C
TRISHIA DONNELLAN
LARE Minors started the defence of their Munster and All Ireland B titles with an emphatic win in Kilrush on Sunday last overcoming Limerick by a scoreline of 4-12 to 1-4. The team has 13 returning members the winning 2017 side and counts 8 County Intermediate players in their midst. Limerick got off the mark first with a point from Aoife Corbett, who would end up doing most of the damage for the Shannonsiders scoring 1-2 over the course of the game. But Clare quickly took control when Fidelma Marrinan fired one to the net in the 5th minute. Roisin O’Carroll countered for Limerick but 5 unanswered points from Megan Downs (x3) and Eimear Keane (x2) saw the Banner
side take a commanding lead. A point from Aoife Corbett left 5 between the sides at halftime, Clare 1-5, Limerick 0-3. Tara Kelly started off the high scoring second half which saw Clare outscore their opponents by 3-7 to 1-1. Two goals from Catriona Callinan and one from Aisling Hannan were joined by three points from Fidelma Marrinan and a brace from Eimear Keane and another from Megan Downes to seal Limerick’s fate. Aoife Corbett’s goal came in the middle of the second half but it was not enough to turn the tide and Roisin Breedy got the final point of the match for Limerick. Final Score: Clare 4-12, Limerick 1-4. Clare has a bye for round 2 and face Waterford in a neutral venue on 2nd April..
l FLYING START: Clare’s Emma McMahon (Cúl Gaels) ahead of the chasing pack during Clare’s emphatic win in Kilrush at the weekend Credit: BurrenEye Photography Clare: Michaela Glynn (Kilmihil), Shona Power (Doora Barefield), Siofra Ni Chonaill (Doora Barefield), Siobhan McMahon (Banner Ladies), Aine Keane (Miltown), Aisling Morrissey (Cooraclare), Anne Marie Meenaghan (Banner Ladies), Aisling Reidy (Doora Barefield) Emma McMahon (Cuil Gaels), Aileen O’Reilly (West Clare Gaels), Fidelma Marrinan (West Clare Gaels) (1-3), Eimear Keane-captain (0-4), Aisling Hannan (Doora Barefield) (1-0), Me-
gan Downes (Cooraclare) (04), Meg Brennan (Liscannor). Subs: Tara Kelly (0-1), Catriona Callinan (2-0).
U14s LOSE TO STRONG TIPP SIDE Clare U14’s met a strong Tipperary side when they started their 2018 Munster B campaign on Saturday last, Clare 2-0, Tipperary 7-16. The highlight of the match was a penalty conversion by Edel McNamara which gave Clare their first score. Clare are away to Limerick on this Saturday, Feb 24.
National awards recognition for Clare volunteers
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l LOCAL STARS: Media Awards winners Brid MacNamara Best Programme Munster Council, Mary McMahon Clare Volunteer, Catherine Behan Cullen originally from Doonbeg, Wicklow Volunteer & Reyna Ryan, accepted Best Photo award on behalf of her
HE Camogie Association Volunteer and Media Awards Dinner took place on Saturday February 17th in Croke Park - and the haul for people from the Banner means it’s 13 awards to Clare in 12 years. Over 100 guests were in attendance at the event at which Volunteer and Media Award winners were honoured for their contributions to the Association in 2017. Clare winners included Brid MacNamara, Munster camogie PRO who has served campgie in Munster and specifically Clare over a number of years; Mary McMahon of Eire Og who was awarded volunteer of the year; Catherine Behan Cullen who is originally from Doonbeg but picked up an award for her work in Wicklow; and Aidan Ryan for photography. The 2017 Mick Dunne Memorial Awards recipients were:
Local Media: C103 - accepted by Rory Burke. Match Programme: Munster Camogie Board - accepted by Brid MacNamara PRO, who has also won PRO of the year on two occassions . PRO of the Year: Ann Marie Guinan, Offaly Camogie Board. The 2017 Camogie Association Media Awards recipients were: Best Media Innovation: Tipp FM - accepted by Susan Murphy General Manager Digital Promotion: We Are Dublin Photography: Aidan Ryan, Clare - accepted by his daughter Reyna Special Recognition: Wexford Camogie4Teens The 2017 Volunteer of the Year Awards recipient for Clare was Eire Og’s Mary McMahon. The Wicklow recipient was Catherine Behan Cullen, originally from Doonbeg , now married and living in Wicklow.
THURSDAY, FEB 22 2018
Community
COMMUNITY 23 CONTACT NEWSDESK
065 671 9021 news@clareecho.ie
CLARECASTLE/ENNIS
l IN A SPIN: (L - R) Ruairi Concannon, Ailbhe Concannon, Derek “Speedie” Healy and Liz Murphy taking a coffee break during the Clarecastle GAA spinathon on Saturday
CLARECASTLE GEARED UP FOR ROAD TO CROKER The Road to Croker part 2 is a Clarecastle GAA underage fundraiser raising funds for the benefit of children aged from five to 18. Some 46 local cyclists will cycle to Croagh Patrick over 2 days commencing St. Patrick’s Day. As part of the fundraising drive club members completed a spinathon last Saturday, February 17 at Deasy’s Centra in Clarecastle and the Maxol Garage, Clareabbey, Clarecastle which was supported very generously by locals and passers-by. More local fundraisers will be taking place in the lead-up to St Patrick’s Day. BAKE FOR BRAIN INJURY BAKE SALE Acquired Brain Injury Ireland will be running our annual Bake for Brain Injury Bake sale on the 9th of March from 12pm at our service located at 37 Hillview, Clarecastle. If you would like to donate any baked goods to the sale or have a coffee and a bun with us everyone is welcome. ENNIS MACRA SPONSORSHIP AGREEMENT Ennis Macra has linked up with a Clare based International agricultural brand, Conor Engineering to forge a new relationship between a local youth farming organisation and a Clare company manufacturing cutting edge agricultural machinery and exporting worldwide. Speaking at the announcement of the sponsorship agreement, director of Conor Engineering, Barry O’Connor said ‘We are delighted to support Macra na Feirme locally in their activities and recognise the role Macra plays for young people’s development.
EAST CLARE Ciúnas Centre would like to thank parishioners for their generosity during our recent church collections and also thank the volunteers who stood for us. As a not for profit charity we are very reliant on donations without which we would be unable to provide services to those in need in our communities. We provide affordable hands on therapies and counselling to family carers, the elderly, those with disabilities, special needs and long term sick. Ciúnas Centre is also open to the general public. For more information on our services or to make an appointment please contact 061 924 837.
l SET FOR THE STAGE: Members of the Ennis Players who will take to the stage in glór from next week
ENNIS ENNIS PLAYERS SET FOR GLÓR STAGE Ennis Players are set for their annual run in Glór theatre. This year Clare audiences are in for a treat as they stage one of the most critically acclaimed pieces of modern Irish writing. Stolen Child by Bairbre Ní Chaoimh and Yvonne Quinn, was one of the first plays to cast a light on the plight of the survivors of Ireland’s Industrial schools. Stolen Child tells the story of a young woman’s journey to find her biological mother. Angela (Ethel O’Mahony) enlists the help of an unconventional private detective Mick (Mick Loughnane). Mick has a colourful past and invests himself personally in the search of his client. Angela’s complicated relationship with Dr Chris (Olan Marten) does little to help her well-being throughout the story. Alongside her quest is the heartbreaking story of her mother Peggy’s (Bernie Harten) upbringing by nuns in a 1940s industrial school and the enforced adoption of her newborn baby. Newcomer to the Ennis stage, Olan Marten, is looking forward to the Ennis run. “Glór is a fantastic venue and I’m really looking forward to being on the stage there. Chris, the character that I play, is a complex one. I think audiences will be unsure whether they like him or not. He certainly complicates the life of Angela who is in a somewhat vulnerable state when they come together in the play. I hope that my characterization will capture the nuance of the role.” Chris’ love interest, With a truly creative set design by Mike Scanlon and imaginative lighting design by Eddie McCourt Ennis Players production of “Stolen Child” runs at Glór from Monday 26th February to Thursday 1st March. Tickets (€18/€15 conc.) are available from the Glór online or by calling 065 6843103. Following the closing night, the Players will represent Ennis and hoping to secure a place in the RTE All-Ireland Finals in Athlone later this year.
NORTH/WEST CLARE CLARE ATHLETE TAKES NATIONAL AWARD Darragh Miniter (left) st. Marys AC Clare was the only Clare athlete to receive a national juvenile athletic award at the awards ceremony held at the Tullamore court hotel.This is a three in a row for the Clare athlete. GROW YOUR OWN FRUIT & VEG Spring Grow your own fruit and veg gardening course @ Kilrush Community Garden, 12 week course starts Tuesday 6th March 2-4pm. To book call Hilary Gleeson 086 3579484 or Kilrush Community Garden facebook page. Apple Tree, Orchard Maintenance & Planting Workshop at the Kilrush Community Garden, Nagles Terrace, Kilkee rd, Kilrush on Thursday 1st March 10am-1pm with Tom Barry, experienced gardener. KILRUSH HISTORICAL LECTURE In a change to the advertised calendar, the Kilrush and District Historical Society monthly lecture in the Teach Ceoil on Grace Street at 8pm on Tuesday 27 February will mark the centenary of one of the first deaths in the run-up to the War of Independence. Noel Murphy will tell the story of Tomás Ruiséal from Kerry, who was wounded in Carrigaholt (where he was a teacher of Irish) on 24 March 1918 and died the following Wednesday in hospital in Kilrush, where a lengthy inquest was held.
24 OPINION
THURSDAY, FEB 22 2018
Eoin Neylon
With misinformation doing the rounds on the abortion debate, Eoin Neylon sets the record straight
An inside look at Clare’s political spectrum
Get informed on the 8th
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E’RE just over three months away from possibly the most contentious referendum of my adult life. The referendum on whether we repeal the 8th amendment is certain to get tempers frayed. Extremes on both sides would alternatively argue that the 8th amendment is of vital importance to save lives or that it’s a barbaric throw back that treats women as nothing more than vessels. The truth lies somewhere between. That said, there is misinformation doing the rounds. So, what just is it we’re all going to be sick of hearing about over the next 100 days? Passed by referendum in 1983, three years before I was born, the 8th amendment, or Article 40.3.3 of Bunreacht na hÉireann as it is now, reads; “The states acknowledges the right to life of the unborn and, with due regard to the equal right to life of the mother, guarantees in its laws to respect, and as far as practicable, by its laws to defend and vindicate that right.” Sounds reasonable but, as predicted in 1983, a quagmire of legal issues have arisen from it since. The most famous of these being the X-case of 1992 from which the right to travel and access information on abortion was decided by the Supreme Court. Legislation underpinning that right was only passed in 2013 with the Protection of Life During Pregnancy Act. Of course, it took the death of Galway dentist Dr. Savita Halappanavar (pictured above) due to the complications of a septic miscarriage to bring that about. Early in the process, when it was clear that the miscarriage was inevitable, Halappanavar requested an abortion but this request was denied due to legal fears stemming from the 8th amendment, judging her life not being in danger,
that being the only grounds in which a termination was permissible. In the end, the miscarriage took seven days and in that time the medical team had not diagnosed her with a blood infection that ultimately killed her. This is one case where our abortion laws have caught world headlines for all the wrong reasons. The debate is wide open again and a referendum is now in the pipeline after an all party Oireachtas committee decided to recommend repealing article 40.3.3 and enacting new laws. The Oireachtas committee heard from legal and medical experts in the field and came to an agreed report with support from all but three dissenting members, Mattie McGrath TD (IND), Sen. Ronan Mullen (IND) and Peter Fitzpatrick TD (FG). Ultimately a motion brought to the committee by Fianna Fáil health spokesperson Billy Kelleher TD to allow for abortion up to 12 weeks without restriction was adopted. Many have asked why this position was chosen. For most people surveyed, they are open to legislation for cases like rape and incest; the problem is the committee heard expert legal evidence that legislating for such a case is an impossibility. There is no fool-proof system that deals solely with rape cases. As such, the committee decided that unrestricted abortion laws with a strict term limit was the only way to compassionately handle such cases. The issue then turns to the 12-week term limit itself. The Oireachtas committee voted that disability not be allowed as grounds for an abortion. Most conditions that can be diagnosed pre-natally are only done so much later into the pregnancy. In recent weeks, the Pro-Life campaign have erected huge billboards highlighting Downs
Syndrome, despite the wishes of Downs Syndrome Ireland who stated, “People with Down Syndrome should not be used as an argument for either side of this debate”. They have good reason for such a request. Down Syndrome cannot accurately be diagnosed within the 12-week term limit at present. The Oireachtas committee did well to remove disability as grounds for a termination when you
look at the facts. The sole proposed exception to the 12-week limit would be for cases where the pregnancy would be incompatible with life outside the womb. These are commonly referred to as fatal foetal abnormalities (FFA) and cannot normally be diagnosed until the 20-week mark at the earliest. The Oireachtas committee heard harrow-
ing testimony from couples who were forced to travel to end their pregnancy as to continue would not lead to a healthy birth yet would pose the usual dangers. Most would agree that forcing those experiencing an FFA to continue with pregnancy is uncompassionate at best, but down right cruel in my own opinion. The other misnomer being bandied about is the charge by extremes in the Pro-Life campaign that the committee was rigged. This myth was dispelled by Pro-Life members of the committee like Anne Rabbitt TD (FF) and James Browne TD (FF) who both commended the experts for presenting the facts straight to the committee. It’s also
a fact that whatever the result, abortion will still be illegal the next day. Under the 1861 Offences Against the Persons Act abortion will still be on the statutes as a criminal offense. It’s no guarantee the Dáil will pass a 12-week term limit regime. Only the Government of the day can decide the abortion laws and at present it’s not certain if more liberal laws would pass. Either which way, it’s the people that will decide future Governments and surely, it’s the people who should have a say on whether they trust the women of Ireland; their sisters, wives, girlfriends, cousins and friends, to make an informed decision. This is a personal question for every voter. I hope the campaigners remember that in the weeks to follow.
l ABORTION RIGHTS CAMPAIGN: “I believe it’s immoral to force a person to give birth against their will.” Jon O’Brien (inset), president of Catholics for Choice, speaking at the launch of the campaign to repeal the 8th Amendment, hosted by Abortion Rights Campaign Clare, at the Old Ground Hotel in Ennis on Monday Photo by William Hederman
Safe space to manage all of life’s challenges Therapist Maureen provides pampering and healing WHETHER you need relief from physical symptoms, a safe space to manage emotional challenges, or just want to experience blissful relaxation and pampering while feeling nurtured, there is something for everyone at Maureen Grogan Therapies. Maureen’s goal is to provide a haven for healing, where there is time and space for you. Through continuous training since 2004, Maureen (pictured right) provides the highest standard of treatments and aftercare to her clients. She provides nurturing hands-on therapies that aim to treat the whole person on a physical, emotional, mental and spiritual level. As each client is on their own unique path of healing, treatments are often combined to ensure the best possible outcome. A list of the therapies Maureen offers in her clinics include; Reflexology, Zone Facelift, Holistic Facial, Facial Reflexology, Phytobiophysics, Integrated Energy Therapy, Release of Trapped Emotions, Life Coaching and Personal Development Workshops. Stress is a significant cause of ill health and disease in our current time, and Maureen’s aim is to provide clients with as many tools and techniques as possible to manage their day to day challenges to use for themselves and their families. These techniques are particularly useful for exam stress, interviews and much more. Maureen offers a number of tailored packages to suit your needs including the comprehensive ‘party packages’, which includes offers on four Zone Facelift treatments (including one holistic facial), Facial Reflexologoy, Foot Reflexology, and Integrated Energy Therapy. There is also an introductory of-
fer available on Maureen’s website, which includes offers on single Zone facelift treatments or a 12-week programme. Maureen is the first therapist in Clare to offer Zone Facelift with Facial Reflexology, having trained at the prestigious London College of Reflexology with Ziggie Bergman, Facial Reflexologist to the stars. Renowned for removing as much as 10 years of ageing in a 12 week programme this treatment provides all the benefits of conventional reflexology with Japanese Facelift Massage, Gua-Sha tools, Facial Rollers and healing herbs leaving your face rejuvenated with a fresh not frozen complexion and eliminates the need for Botox or dermal fillers. Maureen’s clinics are based in Inagh, and at the Ennis Osteopathic Clinic.
For more info call 087-9610242 or email groganmaureen@gmail.com.
8 important benefits of acupuncture the underside of the forearm, near the wrist, that when stimulated, is thought to reduce the sensation of nausea that can induce vomiting.
HEALTH benefits of acupuncture include relief from chronic pain, arthritis, anxiety, insomnia, depression, migraine, nausea, postoperative pain, and obesity. Acupuncture is one of the most widely used alternative medicines throughout the world, and in simplest terms, acupuncture is the practice of penetrating the skin with small needles at specific points on the body. This stimulates certain nerve endings of the body and can relieve a wide variety of health conditions. Reduces Chronic Pain 1celebrated This is perhaps the most common and use of acupuncture on the human
body, and as such, it has undergone the most research to test its validity.
Treats Arthritis 2 Arthritis can be a debilitating disease that affects tens of millions of people around the world. Unfortunately, the benefits of modern medicine often fall short in fixing it over the long term, which means you must constantly (at least once daily) take powerful medicine to relieve the joint pain. Acupuncture offers a different option for reducing the painful and debilitating effects of arthritis.
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of acupuncture in recent years has been for the relief of migraines and headaches, both in terms of pain relief and reduction in frequency. Studies have shown that patients treated with acupuncture had a higher chance of showing a marked decrease in pain rather than modern medical Relieves Migraines Another of the most popular applications treatment.
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Treats Anxiety 6 There have been a number of studies done on the effects of acupuncture on anxiety, includ-
ing generalized anxiety disorder, anxiety neurosis, and perioperative anxiety. Like many of the other uses of acupuncture, the exact mechanism is not completely understood, but clinical trials show a positive correlation between anxiety reduction and acupuncture.
Reduces Insomnia 7 Studies have shown that acupuncture can reduce the frequency of insomnia for many peo-
ple. It shows that acupuncture increases the secretion of nocturnal melatonin, which is a chemical that aids and induces sleep. The study showed that in less than five weeks, regular acupuncture significantly decreased the presence and effects of insomnia in the test study group. Neck Pain So, if you can’t sleep, and you don’t want to Reducing neck pain is one of acu- suffer through the potentially complicated side puncture’s most effective uses. effects of sleep aid pharmaceuticals, speak to an acupuncturist! Prevents Nausea & Vomiting Along with strong proof in support of Minimizes Heartburn & Indigestion acupuncture alleviating neck pain, it has Regular acupuncture therapy has been provalso been shown as a very effective tool en to reduce signs of heartburn, indigestion, and against nausea and vomiting. There is a required sufferers to use fewer antacids, a recent particular acupuncture pressure point on study shows.
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Putting heart health first in Ennis
Local experts put patient in the picture with screening and functional medicine
A NEW medical and healthcare movement is taking place and at the forefront of it in the West of Ireland, providing their expertise is the Ennis-based Functional Naturopathic Clinic. Ceara Barry - who has over 20 years experience as a Staff Nurse, Senior Staff Nurse and Clinical Nurse Manager - along with Richard Rocker, who has worked with Olympic athletes in his field, are putting patients’ needs first with a range of screening and therapies. BPro & CARDIOVASCULAR SCREENING Ceara specialises in BPro and Cardiovascular Screening. The BPro heart screening is a non-invasive and completely pain free test. It measures the health of the heart, flexibility of the arteries, blood pressure and Central Aortic Systolic Pressure (CASP) giving an overall Heart Health result.
The device will also detect an irregular heart beat which many people develop through their lives and may be completely unaware of it. The test can detect early warning signs of a pending stroke or heart attack, as the device also measures stiffness in the arteries.We also offer Arteriograph screening. Ceara believes this screening is one of the fundamentals to maintaining a healthy heart along with recommending to people to manage blood pressure, improve diet, stop smoking, control cholesterol and blood sugars, get active and lose weight. Ceara is passionate about promoting better health and intends to continue her education and work with a postgrad in Health Promotion approaches to Cardiovascular Health and Diabetes Prevention. FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE Longtime Ennis resident Richard, originally from Canada, has had the privilege of working for the heavyweight boxing champion Lennox Lewis, NFL players, Olympic athletes, GAA, Irish National Men’s Volleyball team, world class strongmen and other professional and amateur athletes. Richard also works with the general public, helping with a variety of health concerns and ailments including autoimmune disorders, digestive, infertility, hormonal, rehabilitation, immune, endocrine, metabolic, genetic, psychological and behavioural issues.
l EXPERTS: Ceara and Richard, co-owners of Functional Naturopathic Clinic in Ennis Over the last 25 years along with practical clinical experience Richard has studied and is certified in Functional Medicine, Massage, Shiatsu, Aromatherapy, Reflexology, Acupuncture, Psychotherapy, Hypnotherapy, Personal Training, Nutrition, Phlebotomy, Genomics, Blood Chemistry Analysis, Homeoprophylaxsis and Eastern Medicine which taught him to see the body from a holistic perspective. Now, Functional Medicine gives him a
framework to combine this with a Western understanding of the body. As opposed to Western Medicine, Functional Medicine treats the client/patient ,and not the disease, to find the root causes of the health imbalance. In addition, it provides a framework for the practice of healthcare that uses all the tools of healing, both conventional and alternative, to address the whole person rather than an isolated set of symptoms.
It’s only natural; Dr Hauschka make-up range launch in Gort WHEN it comes to natural beauty products, the range we stock at Open Sesame has grown significantly over the last few years. Our customers no longer go to the pharmacies or big department stores for their cosmetics. Instead they seek advice from our fully trained staff, choosing from the wide range of natural beauty products. In fact our launch of the brand-new Dr Hauschka Make-up range proved so successful in Ennis that we are now launching in Gort, and we’d love for you to join us for our in-store event next Thursday 1st March!
At Open Sesame we’re all glad that Dr Hauschka is tested so extensively, and of course never on animals. Also, who doesn’t like roses!? Almost all Hauschka products contains biodynamic, sustainably grown Rose Oil. Sally has visited many top UK and International stores over the years, and reckons she’s yet to see a natural cosmetic range better than Hauschka for presentation, quality and commitment to their products. WHEN ARE WE LAUNCHING THE RANGE IN GORT?
WHAT MAKES US LOVE DR HAUSCHKA?
After several decades stocking Dr Hauschka, we’re proud to have exclusivity on their wonderful new Make-Up for this part of Ireland. Our staff are constantly training in conjunction with Dr Hauschka – no one more than Clare of Open Sesame Ennis - a fully trained esthetician, who in fact used to work for Dr H. What’s unique about their new make-up range is how it restores natural balance to the skin, adding colour without concealing its natural radiance and vitality, bringing out a woman’s individuality
l PRODUCT LAUNCH: Open Sesame’s Gort branch will host a launch party for the new Dr Hauschka range. Pictured above is the Ennis branch of the shop
in a wholly natural way. It’s make up that feeds your skin. All Dr Hauschka products are certified by “True Friends of Natural and Organic Cosmetics” (NATRUE) – the international standard for natural and
So join us on Thursday 1st March - the launch party will kick off at 6.30pm and feature goody bags, top quality make-up advice from the people behind the products. You can also enjoy some free refreshments and the chance to win a hamper worth €100. Tickets are just €5 redeemable against purchase on the night.
organic cosmetics. Free from synthetic fragrances and preservatives, mineral oils, silicones and PEG, they are also dermatologically tested and Places are limited so don’t forget to book by all eye products ophthalmologist test- calling 091-632778, emailing info@opensesame.ie or contact us via facebook. ed also.
Reduce risk of Lymphoedema Look out for the warning signs MARCH is Lymphoedema awareness month. But what is Lymphoedema? Lymphoedema is the build-up of fluid in the body tissues mostly commonly found in the arms or legs. This happens often when there has been an obstruction of the lymphatic system or the removal of lymph nodes. These terms will be familiar to those who have had cancer. Lymphoedema is most commonly associated with breast, gynaecological and urological cancers, where the arm, leg or abdomen swell with fluid, but it can occur in the neck or head as well. Early detection is vital as there are four stages to
lymphedema which get progressively worse. Self-awareness and educating patients on risk, treatment and prevention is necessary. How to recognise the early signs of lymphoedema? Swelling of the limb; Limb heaviness; Skin tightness; Tight jewellery, clothing or shoes; Swelling reduces at night. If you have any of these symptoms it is advisable to contact an MLD (Manual Lymphatic Drainage) Therapist to help treat, maintain and improve the condition. Lymphoedema is a life long condition and early intervention and education help to make it more manageable. It also must be said
that Lymphoedema can be a genetic condition or can be caused by other factors, but the treatment is the same. WHAT IS MLD? Manual Lymphatic Drainage is a very precise gentle therapy that manually moves the fluid from the area of swelling to an area of fully functioning lymphatic system. WHAT IS THE LYMPHATIC SYSTEM? The Lymphatic system is the waste removal system of the body, so it helps keep us healthy and helps the immune system function efficiently. For more information check out: MLD Ireland; Lymphoedema Ireland
What is colic and what can I do to relieve the pain? by MICHAEL O’DOHERTY Plexus Bio Energy
If your babies colon is inflamed and the formula you use is not suiting your baby then this will lead to the cramping, pain and reflux. Excessive use of antibiotics and other medication exasserbates the problem.
COLIC is the term used when your otherwise healthy baby cries excessively and can’t be soothed. All babies cry, of course, but persistent crying occurs for many reasons and colic is one if not the main reason why babies are continuously upset. Whatever the reason for it, excessive crying can be upsetting. Trying to comfort an inconsolable baby over many hours is still hard work. At times you may feel helpless. It may be enough to drive you to tears of your own. Colic symptoms include predictable crying episodes; Intense or inconsolable crying; Distressed; Curled up legs; Clenched fists and tensed abdominal muscles are common during colic episodes. Pain is the real reason why babies cry persistantly, and the underlying cause of this pain needs to be identified. It is obvious that the digestive system in not functioning right and this the real problem. Inflimation in the child’s gut is the main cause of the pain and certain foods exacerbate the problem. Stress throughout womblife and at birth can lay the foundation for this problem which has been well doccumented. BIRTH STRESS More people are beginning to realize the importance of this early stage of a child’s development. Recent
studies show that stress experienced at birth or at any stage of an infant’s life can have huge implications, resulting in, at the very least a compromised immune system. This in turn can lead to symptoms of colic, excess mucus build up, respiratory issues, eczema and may also play a role in the increasing number of learning and Behavioral problems. Children born by C-section are more frequently hospitalised In a study, published in the journal Pediatrics, Bisgaard examined the correlation between C-sections and immunological disorders in two million Danish children born
How to keep a healthy mindset YOUR mindset influences how you think, feel, and behave on a daily basis. It also affects your ability to cope with stress, overcome challenges, build relationships, and recover from life’s setbacks and hardships. Whether you’re looking to cope with a specific mental health problem, handle your emotions better, or simply to feel more positive and energetic, there are plenty of things you can do to boost your mindset - starting today. If you want to reach your greatest potential, it’s important to build your mental muscle. I often compare it to building your physical muscles - just as it requires effort to build and maintain physical health, so it is with mental health. If you exercise your mind every day, over time you’ll achieve a strong and healthy mindset. There are things you can do that can help you elevate your mood, become more resilient, and enjoy life more. Here are a few activities that don’t require enormous amount of time but if completed regularly are extremely effective and beneficial for your mindset.
& Mindfulness 1yourMeditation Practicing meditation helps you to slow breath, quiet your mind, and find peace, it can be beneficial physically,
mentally, and emotionally. Meditation is now commonly used to treat mental health disorders, addiction, and everyday stress, as well as to heal physical ailments and promote better sleep.
Release your emotions through art 2 As you begin to express your emotions through images, you will discover your in-
ner voice - the voice of your heart. Using art to express this voice will enable you to connect, maybe for the first time, with your deepest feelings and emotions. Expressing your emotions through colour, form, shape and texture releases their hold on you, clearing the way for healing to begin.
Talk to a professional counsellor 3 Sometimes we need help from another person. People come to psychotherapy for
all kinds of reasons. Some may feel that situations in their lives have become challenging and they need to develop new, healthier ways of coping. Others simply aim to strengthen their emotional well-being, so they can go on living full and happy lives.
For more information on any of the above activities, please, contact Tatjana on 0852819849 or go to www.psychotherapyclinic.ie.
over a period of 35 years between 1973 and 2012. The scientists were able to determine from the Danish register of births that: ; Children born by C-section have been more frequently hospitalised than those born vaginally due to asthma, Colic [inflammatory bowel disorder] etc. ; More specifically, the risk of developing asthma is 20 per cent higher if you are born by C-section. The researchers conclude that there is an approximately 40 per cent greater risk of developing immune defects and a 10 per cent greater risk of developing juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.
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THE SOLUTION You have to release the stress from the baby and this is done by having some Bioenergy therapy and or craniosacral therapy. - Breast feed when possible. - Change the formula to Neocate prescribed by your Dr. You can also try the Nanny Goat formula. - Do not use a microwave to heat your baby’s food. - Get an infintile probiotic in the health shop as this will be of help the microbial system of the gut. - Smaller meals work better. - As you baby gets older avoid gluten, dairy and refined sugar. These foods are mucus forming, causing digestive, sinus and respiratory problems - Replace the dairy with Almond, Rice, Oat, or coconut milk. - Massage your baby’s abdominal area clockwise as this will aid digestion and relax your baby. - Mozart music for babies is also very soothing.
It’s recommended that you seek advice from your GP if your baby cries excessively . While C.sections, vacuum or forcept deliveries may be necessary it’s the implications that need to be addressed. Symptoms such as colic can be avoided by taking the steps advised above.
Motoring MOTORING EXPERT NEIL BRISCOE GIVES HIS VIEWS lNEW AND IMPROVED: Subaru has played a blinder in the cabin
FACTS & FIGURES: Model tested Subaru XV 2.0i SE Premium CVT Pricing: €38,495 as tested. XV range starts from €33,495. Engine: 2.0-litre flat-four petrol Transmission: CVT automatic Body style: crossover CO2 emissions: 155g/km (Band C, €390 per annum) Combined economy: 40.9mpg (7.0 litres/100km) Top speed: 200km/h 0-100km/h: 10.4 seconds Power: 156hp at 6,000rpm Torque: 196Nm at 4,000rpm Boot space: 385-litres EuroNCAP rating: Five-stars; 94 per cent adult, 89 per cent child, 84 per cent pedestrian, 68 per cent safety assist
STYLISH SUBARU T ROAD TEST: SUBARU XV
HERE’S an appeal in redundancy. That sense of knowing that your expensive wristwatch can cope with the pressure of 300-metres of seawater, so it’ll be grand to wear it while doing the washing up. That knowledge that your jacket has been designed for, and worn by, Antarctic explorers and scientists, so it’ll certainly keep you warm if it’s a bit nippy out. That’s the appeal of the Subaru XV — knowing that whatever this capricious world may throw at you in terms of weather or road surface (or a total lack of road surface) you’ll be fine. You’ll get home. That should, in theory at least, help you to get your head around its price tag. Subaru’s XV is roughly the same size as a Nissan Qashqai, but it costs rather a lot more. You’ll spend, at minimum, €33,495 on one, and our test car — a range-topping SE Premium model with the CVT automatic gearbox — clocked in at €38,495. Which is what’s known as quite a bit, really. The good news, though, is that you do get a lot of equipment included in that hefty price tag (not always the case with the competition). As well as the CVT gearbox, there are part-leather seats, a big eight-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (good luck getting either of those from, say, a Land Rover) and crucially the EyeSight system. EyeSight is Subaru’s automated braking and active cruise control system, and it uses a pair of cameras mounted high up in the windscreen for stereoscopic vision of the road ahead. Paired with a microwave radar system, that means that the XV can scan in front of you for other cars, obsta-
Once you’ve experienced what the Subaru XV can do, you’ll be sold
cles, and imminent collisions. It means that it can slow down the cruise control to keep you a safe distance from the car ahead or, in extremis, slam on the brakes to avoid or ameliorate a collision. It’s clever stuff, and I have to say a sight better than some rival systems, which can be foxed and even shut down by something as prosaic as heavy rain. The Subaru system dealt with the worst that Irish weather could chuck at it without so much as a shrug. Which is pretty much how the rest of the XV dealt with the same conditions. This being a Subaru it comes with permanent four-wheel drive, and that gives you terrific confidence in even the worst of the weather. We dealt with everything from driving rain to sudden snow showers during our time with the XV, and it never gave cause for concern. Of course, four-wheel drive merely gets you going in bad conditions, it doesn’t help you stop (you have only the same brakes as a normal car, after all) but the XV felt sure-footed and confident whatever was going on outside. The powertrain is a bit of a mixed bag. Subaru has never been big on diesel power (its 2.0-litre Boxer diesel flat-four engine has remained all but unchanged for a decade now) so you’d expect its expertise in petrol to be paying off right now, as we all turn diesel-phobic. Not quite, though — the 2.0-litre flat-four engine has tremendous refinement, and sounds good when you rev it hard, but it can be very thirsty. Indeed, while Subaru quotes the car as being capable of 40mpg on average, we
struggled to do better than 34mpg. Theoretically, this should have been helped by the CVT gearbox, and it’s true that the stepless automatic option does keep your tax bill down to Band C levels, if only just. As with all CVTs, though, it does conspire to make the car feel slower than it actually is, allowing the engine to rev to peak power rpm whenever you want to accelerate, which is bad for both refinement and for economy. It helps if you use the steering-wheel mounted paddle-shifters to change up to one of the pre-set ‘ratios’ in the gearbox as you accelerate, but it’s still not as satisfying as either a conventional automatic or dual-clutch arrangement, whatever the Co2 benefits might be. Thankfully, Subaru has played a blinder in the cabin. Yes, you read that right. Subaru has had, for years, something of a reputation for creating beautifully-engineered cars with cheap and nasty cabins, but this new XV is a definite step forward. There’s a lot of nice, contrast-stitched, leather spread around the place, and the plastics used for the main surfaces feel much heftier and of better quality than they used to. Good seats too, and the touchscreen is pretty decent. Space is only OK (the boot is a bit small, but the back seats are reasonably roomy) but where the XV excels is in the driving. It has light, but very accurate steering and you can genuinely feel the extra stiffness and precision that comes with the shift to Subaru’s new platform and chassis (which can also be found under the new Impreza). The XV rides comfortably, doesn’t roll too
much in corners, and generally gets about really nicely while giving you the occasional reminder that the company used to supply transport to a certain Colin McRae. The XV isn’t THAT sporty, but you can feel that some of the same DNA resides in its chassis. So, yes, it’s pretty pricey not least because it’s smaller inside than most of its major rivals. Most of its major rivals would give their right arms for the XV’s reliability reputation, and its skills at dealing with the sort of weather and road surfaces that dominate Irish conditions. It all comes down to how much value you place on sheer capability.
THURSDAY, FEB 22 2018
Get up to €4,500 Scrappage or 0% Finance on your 181 ŠKODA. Contact Al Hayes ŠKODA today to explore your options.
Al Hayes ŠKODA, Gort Road, Ennis, Co. Clare. 065 682 2400 • www.alhayesskoda.ie Terms and conditions apply. Offer available at participating dealers only. Scrappage allowance may vary depending on model. Typical Example: Superb 1.4 TSI 125bhp €28,750. Deposit €8273.64. 36 Monthly payments of €269 including fixed price service plan of €12.99 per month. Optional final payment €11,260. Total Hire Purchase Price €28,750. €0 cost of credit. Minimum deposit 10%. ŠKODA Finance trading as Volkswagen Bank GmbH Branch Ireland is authorised by the Federal Financial Supervisory Authority in Germany and regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland for conduct of business rules. Lending criteria, fees and terms and conditions apply. Subject to lending criteria. See www.skoda.ie for further details. 0% finance is available on Fabia, Rapid, Octavia and Superb models only.. Available on cars ordered before 28 February 2018 and registered before 31st March 2018.
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THURSDAY, FEB 22 2018
Motoring News
TOYOTA LAUNCHES ITS OWN BANK IN IRELAND
Toyota Financial Services expects to loan out €70-million this year lINVESTMENT IN IRELAND: The company expects to write around €70 Million worth of business in its first year and will create 25 new jobs to service the demand
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INISTER Michael D’Arcy TD, Minister of State for Financial Services, has officially launched Toyota Financial Services (Ireland) at a ceremony in the company’s headquarters in Dublin. The company expects to write around €70 Million worth of business in its first year and will create 25 new jobs to service the demand. TFS(I) is a joint venture between Toyota Financial Services, Toyota Motor Corporation’s international finance arm, and Toyota Ireland, the 100 per cent Irish owned distributor of Toyota
and Lexus cars in Ireland. TFS has some €160 Billion in assets under management throughout the world and this is the first time it has entered into such an agreement with a national distributor. Those attending the event included: Mr. Shinya Kotera, Senior Executive Vice-President, Toyota Financial Services Corporation, Mark Templin, COO TFS Corporation, Steve Tormey, Chief Executive, Toyota Ireland, and François Radot, Chief Executive, TFS(I). Speaking at the launch Minister D’Arcy said: “The formation of this company is an historic occasion, as it is the first time Toy-
ota Financial Services, one of the world’s largest motor financiers, has formed such a joint venture with a country distributor, in this case Toyota Ireland. “The Government’s IFS 2020 Strategy, of which I recently launched the 2018 Action Plan, sets out an ambitious target to ensure that Ireland remains a highly-desirable location for international financial services and in doing so creates 10,000 new jobs by 2020. The introduction of TFS(I) is a significant vote of confidence in the Irish economy and a powerful signal to the international financial services industry that the financial ser-
vices arm of the World’s largest motor manufacturer, Toyota Motor Corporation, has entered the Irish market in partnership with Toyota Ireland.” Steve Tormey, Chief Executive, Toyota Ireland said: “We predict TFS(I) will have a significant impact on the Irish motor market and we would expect to write somewhere in the region of 4,000 new and used contracts in the coming 12 months with a total value in excess of €70 Million. “The TFS offering, which will be available from Toyota and Lexus Dealerships throughout the country, will be highly competitive, with PCP rates starting
at 2.9 per cent and averaging 3.9 per cent. For the first time our team, led by François Radot, will be totally dedicated to Toyota and Lexus vehicles, developing bespoke products for our vehicles. “A critical element in this mix will be our ability to provide finance for the rapidly growing Hybrid sector which has seen major growth in the January market with 48 per cent of Toyota’s sales (4,393) being hybrid. This is truly remarkable growth and a clear indicator that Hybrid technology is seen by the public as a vital stepping stone in their journey towards electrification at some time in the future.”
THURSDAY, FEB 22 2018
MOTORING 33
Motoring News
Honda now official car partner to PRO14 rugby
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RO14 RUGBY has announced that Honda Ireland has become the Official Car Partner of this season’s Guinness PRO14 Final Series. The first-ever Guinness PRO14 Final takes place on May 26 and throughout all six games of the Final Series Honda will be the driving force in fan engagement as the Championship journey promises to provide another historic game at Aviva Stadium. Fans of the Guinness PRO14 will be able to experience the benefits of this exciting partnership with Honda providing exclusive offers to supporters such as access to the Captain’s Run ahead of the Final, providing competitions for Mini rugby and Women’s rugby while bringing experiential events to games throughout the Final Series. Honda Ireland has been driving safety, efficiency and performance on Irish roads for over 30 years and will also bring their own touch to the Young Player of the Year award for the 2017/18 season. Honda Ireland have become the fourth partner to the Guinness PRO14
Final Series in what has proven to be an historic campaign for the Championship after expanding into South Africa. Dermot Rigley, Commercial & Marketing Director, PRO14 Rugby was especially pleased to welcome Honda to the Championship: “As the Guinness PRO14 has reached out into the southern hemisphere this season, it’s quite fitting that our Car Partner for the Final Series should be such a world-renowned brand as Honda. Innovation is a common theme between the Guinness PRO14 and Honda. When you see our teams performing at such high levels against each other and, indeed, against their European rivals it’s because of the worldclass talent they have on the pitch and the ambition and daring of their coaches. Honda is such a vibrant brand with a fantastic heritage and a great vision for the future, it really feels like a seamless fit for the Guinness PRO14. We’re quite proud of the attractive style of play we see from the teams in our Championship and one look at their cars tells you that Honda shares that belief in providing eye-catching appeal.”
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MEREWOOD, OGONNELLOE, KILLALOE, CO. CLARE €385,000 GUIDE PRICE
T
HIS stunning residence is located in the picturesque area of OGonnelloe just outside Killaloe. With grounds extending to 1.5 acres, this c.3,200sq.ft. residence enjoys plenty of “green space” surrounding. The outbuildings consist of a detached triple garage, car port and a detached storage building consisting of three separate units. A paddock, presently overgrown, is located behind the outbuildings and is approx. 0.5 acres. The sizeable property includes upper floor: six bedrooms (three en-suite) to the front, three bedrooms to rear with shower room and w.c. and the ground floor consists of hallway, two large formal reception rooms, one family reception room, kitchen plus fam-
ily area, separate utility, games room, guest w.c. and family bathroom. The interior enjoys plenty of natural sunlight and all rooms are spacious and bright. High electric gates welcome “Merewood”. Viewings strictly by appointment and allow plenty of time to leisurely wander throughout this excellent property. BER being completed and will be available shortly.
Contact: Sarah Colette Hanly BSc MIPAV T/A Clare Tipp Properties Main Street Killaloe Tel: +353-(0)86-6000388 or +353-61-376550. Email: colette@claretipp.ie
37 STATION COURT, ENNIS, CO. CLARE, V95 D2VX
€169,950
OPEN VIEWING: SATURDAY 24TH FEBRUARY 10:00AM TO 10:30AM
S
ITUATED in the popular and much sought after town centre development of Station Court and positioned within a cul de sac of 6 homes to the rear of the development is this immaculate 4 bedroom family home boasting spacious bright and well-proportioned living accommodation throughout. This outstanding town centre property is rare to come to the Ennis market and is a must view to truly appreciate. Viewing is strictly by prior appointment with Sole Selling Agents. PSL No. 002295 Features: Double Glazed PVC Windows, PVC fascia and soffit, Ample off street parking, Private front and rear gardens, Rear paved patio area, Excellent residential location, Bus and Rail station within 200 metres. Oil fired central heating, Built in 1994.
Contact: Cormac O’Sullivan, DNG O’Sullivan Hurley Tel: 065 - 6840200 Partner Director
SPACIOUS 5-BED VILLAGE LIVING
NOUGHAVAL, DOORA, ENNIS, CO. CLARE, V95 K71K
€299,000
OPEN VIEWING: SAT, FEB 24TH, 11:00 - 11:30AM
E
XTENDING to 2,400 sq.ft., this 5-bedroom family home is located in what is noted as one of Ennis’ much sought-after suburbs just 500m off the M18 motorway, 700m from Doora National School and just 200m from the village centre. Constructed in 2001, the property offers bright, spacious and well-proportioned living accommodation throughout boasting 2 receptions, spacious open plan kitchen/dining, separate utility and WC at ground floor level with further 5 double bedrooms at first floor level, 2 of which are en-suite. Featuring quality fixtures and fittings throughout, extensive timber flooring and tiling and quality integrated appliances. Outside, the drive extends to front, side and rear which leads to a 1,000 sq.ft. detached garage with additional overhead space. This would make an ideal family home conveniently located and viewing is highly recommended and strictly by prior appointment with Sole
Selling Agent. PSL No. 002295 Features: Double glazed PVC windows PVC fascia and soffit Oil fired central heating Extensive lawn on .92 acre site Located in highly sought after residential location 6km to Ennis Town Centre Built in 2001 Contact: Cormac O’Sullivan, DNG O’Sullivan Hurley Tel: 065 - 6840200 Partner Director
CULLENAGH, QUIN, ENNIS, CO. CLARE, V95 KC80 LOCATED within 3 minutes’ drive of Quin Village, this stunning 4 bedroom family home offers the ultimate in bright, spacious and well proportioned living accommodation. Boasting 2 reception rooms, 4 double (1 en-suite) bedrooms, open plan kitchen/dining and separate utility. Outside, the property is accessed via a stone wall, separate detached garage, post and rail fencing surrounding the landscaped 0.5 acre site with raised decking to the rear. This is a must view and strictly by prior appointment with Sole Selling Agents. PSL No. 002295 Features: Double glazed PVC windows PVC fascia and soffit Extensive drive to side and rear Oil fired central heating, underfloor heating at ground floor Entrance Hallway, 2 Receptions, Open plan Kitchen/Dining, Utility, Downstairs Shower Room 4 double bedrooms to first floor (master en-suite with walk-in wardrobe)
€325,000
Extensive timber flooring and tiling throughout, quality fitted kitchen Extensive decking, Circa 0.5 acre landscaped site stone front boundary wall Detached garage, built in 2005 Outstanding residential location Contact: Cormac O’Sullivan, DNG O’Sullivan Hurley Tel: 065 - 6840200 Partner Director
PROPERTY 35
THURSDAY, FEB 22 2018
74 O'Connell Street, Ennis, Co. Clare Phone: (065) 684 0200
O’SULLIVAN HURLEY
LAND FOR SALE BY PUBLIC AUCTION
87.27 Acres (Folio CE22033) Shanaway Road Ennis, Co. Clare Price: AMV €450,000 at The Old Ground Hotel, Ennis, Co. Clare 2nd March 2018 12:00pm
Located on the Shanaway Road, one of Ennis’ premiere residential areas, DNG O’Sullivan Hurley are delighted to offer for auction, circa 87.27 acres with vehicular access onto the Shanaway Road. The lands slope gradually from road level to the Inch River, Ennis is 2km, Shannon 22km. PSL No. 002295 Solicitor: Paul O’Brien, McMahon O’Brien Tynan, Mill House, Henry Street, Limerick 061-315100 Agent: Cormac O’ Sullivan cormac@dngosullivanhurley.com
36 CLASSIFIEDS
THURSDAY, FEB 22 2018
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CONTACT SALES
065 671 9021 sales@clareecho.ie
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THURSDAY, FEB 22 2018
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CLASSIFIEDS 37 CONTACT SALES
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THURSDAY, FEB 22 2018
Your Horoscopes February 22 YOUR world is full of mixed blessings for now -- so you definitely ought to get busy trying to figure out what to do with them all. Since you’re such a powerful a magnet for passion and action, you had better get ready for the sentimental side of life to really pop and sizzle! Warn those closest to you to get ready for a really different side of you to come out.
Taurus
Gemini
THIS is likely to be a tricky day -- starting out deceptively peaceful and then ending up almost completely crazy, thanks to an old friend who isn’t quite acting like they usually do. There’s only one answer: Pay careful attention to your instincts, no matter what your rational, practical side is telling you. Your right brain knows best. Just listen to that small inner voice!
YOU need to get out today -- there’s just no doubt about it. You’ve got to get groceries, at least -- real, good-for-you food, and maybe a magazine or video for later. You’re probably fighting the urge to stay in, hang out on your own, eat whatever’s easiest, and continue to entertain yourself strictly on your own terms. Sometimes that’s just how it’s got to be, so once you get back, stay in your PJs all day.
Cancer
Leo
Virgo
YOU may have woken up with the morning blues -- how unusual! That doesn’t matter, though, but don’t despair, because it definitely can’t last. In fact, if you get up and around, you’re surprised to find that you can actually enjoy the day quite a bit. Remember that you’re in charge -- and don’t you have some sweet plans to look forward to?
YOU’RE so affable that it can be hard to find you to make a date with you! Still, if you really want to find the time for someone special, you can -- and right now, there’s someone you’d cancel almost anything to be with. Bonus: They’re feeling the same way! Blow off the rest of the world and spend the next 24 hours together.
ARE you not really in the mood to do more work? That’s okay for now. As dutiful as you are, just thinking about shirking could send a shiver down your spine, but that’s actually reason enough to take the day off. See how the other half lives -- those who consider ‘mental health days’ just as important as sick leave. Join the crowd, even if it’s just for the moment.
Libra
Scorpio
Sagittarius
Capricorn
Aquarius
Pisces
E (6)
P
R
18
A O
F
C D
E
14
I
L
A
S
10
11
I
L
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15
T
C
19
U
20
S N
D
N
E T
C
S
R
7
O
1
E 2
O
I
E
A
16
I
R
U
R
S
12
3
B
A
R
21
F
L
17
O
A
9
P
A
Y
E
N
R R
A 4
C
E T
I I
N
E
T I
U
T
T P
S
A
E S
E
K
R 13
E
M
H
N N
8
E
E
C difficult - just lso an ideal
N
M N
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D T
I 5
K
G
S O
N 6
I
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21
E
22
20
H
19
17
C
18
16
R
15
A
14
22
13
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12
N
11
CROSSWORD ANSWERS S
10
9
M
8
1 Killer whale in Windsor Castle (4) 2 Belgian port doesn’t change (6) 3 Very cold poles for birds (8) 4 Fish raise trivial objections (4) 5 Child with foreign currency brought up organ (6) 6 Being unable to sleep, I rebuilt mansion (8) 11 I yell audibly for food from the freezer (3,5) 12 Game unfinished after leading player stiffens (8) 15 Nuts can fit, actually (2,4) 17 Poet at home after frolic (6)
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7
DOWN
M
6
3) an
5
e
4
19 Meet up and fall ing found heavily (4) in crustaceans (4) 21 Reddish-brown coat-
g
3
(4-7)
s
2
7 Priest with no air has trouble breathing (11) 8 Most rational form of assent (6) 9 Write note about flag (6) 10 Songs the kaiser heard? (6) 12 Adage, for example, in Gateshead (6) 13 Silly-billy in southern Italy (3) 14 Food shop found by American composer (6) 16 Love entering a home on the water? (6) 18 Forecaster, we hear, making financial gain (6) 20 Poison not often seen by copper (6) 22 Chairmen see out great foes
6)
1
ACROSS
IF you’ve got any spare sick days, you may want to take one today. Last week was a crazy ride (to say the least), and you probably need some time to come down. You should also chill out, on your own if possible. Your people are most likely busy anyway, leaving you free to hang out at home, get comfortable and spoil yourself. You know you want to.
)
The Clare Echo Crossword
ilt
IF you think that someone special is right around the next corner, you’re probably correct -- so don’t start asking if your instincts could be off-base. Just put yourself in the right place at the right time -- wherever your kind of people congregate. You know where that is, but it’s most likely not a bar. Go for smart, engaged, and interesting.
REMEMBER that all’s well that ends well. If your day feels less than awesome, and if the person who’s making it that way keeps showing up directly in your line of fire, resist the urge to let them have it. If you can pull it off, you end up so proud of yourself that when tonight finally arrives, you let yourself be spoiled.
the
SOME of your colleagues and friends are kind of stumbling through the day and maybe looking stunned -- as if they can’t quite figure out what to do. Try to be as sympathetic as possible. From your perspective, things don’t look so bad -- or so confusing. By tomorrow, it should all be even better. Help your people get through it all. Give them some good advice and the benefit of your wisdom.
EVERYONE seems to be pleased with the way things are turning out in your world. Unfortunately, you can’t shake a relentless, nagging suspicion that everyone is wrong -- or that something might go wrong soon. Knock it off! You may be right -- but only if you find a way to prove yourself right. Do you want to create a self-fulfilling prophecy?
ng
DID you take the whole day off, or are you just trying to figure out some way to get off early? You’re certainly not alone -- lots of folks are feeling the same way. Lots need to stay in, get comfy and maybe read those old magazines. Yesterday was surely exhausting, and tomorrow might be pretty tricky, so you’re entitled to a break in the action.
d
Aries
1/1
cult - just n ideal
38 CROSSWORD/HOROSCOPES
QUIZ 39
THURSDAY, FEB 22 2018
The Clare Echo Quiz AROUND THE COUNTY CLARE
in County Clare would you The holy well in Maurices Mills 1Where find Kilfinaghty Public Library? 3 near Inagh is named after which saint
4
5 6 7 8 9 l WRITER: Where in County Clare is the writer Brian Merriman who wrote The Midnight Court buried?
l STUNNING LOCATION: Bishops Quarter beach is located near which County Clare village?
10
6. Kildysart 7. Ennistymon 8. Ballyvaughan 9. Abbey Street 10. Killaloe
2
Saint Flannan, Saint Bridget, Saint John Where in County Clare is the writer Brian Merriman who wrote The Midnight Court buried? Ennistymon, Feakle, Ballyvaughan Loughburke is a townland in which County Clare village? Crusheen, Ruan, Kilmaley. Canon Island is located off which County Clare village? Kilbaha, Kildysart, Ballyvaughan The N85 Road connects Ennis with which County Clare town? Ennistymon, Scariff, Kilrush Bishops Quarter beach is located near which County Clare village? Liscannor, Ballyvaughan, Doonbeg Church Street is the old name for which Ennis street? Parnell Street, O’Connell Street, Abbey Street The Pipers Inn is a pub located near which County Clare town? Killaloe, Shannon, Kilrush
ANSWERS
OLD IMAGES OF COUNTY CLARE
Michael Kenneally (24) of Mount Callan photographed in 1954 by US photographer Dorothea Lange
1. Sixmilebridge 2. Connolly 3. Saint Flannan 4. Feakle 5. Kilmaley
Kilrush, Sixmilebridge, Tulla Fiach Rua is the Irish name for which County Clare village? Barefield, Kilbaha, Connolly
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