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Have you seen this pendant? ELAINE TUBRIDY
news@clareecho.ie
A
NORTH Clare woman is appealing for the public’s help to find a pendant made out of her late husband’s wedding ring. The pendant is adorned with rubies that Elizabeth and her husband bought together years ago from a friend. It’s very valuable as well as
Clairvoyant predicts Ennistymon widow’s pendant will be found by end of this month hugely sentimental. “Last year I combined them with an emerald and my husband’s wedding ring was used to make the base of the pendant,” she said. Elizabeth lost the pendant on October 3, 2016, when she was running an errand in Ennistymon. She parked for a short while in the church car park, before
getting back into her car and driving to the Teach Cheoil where she parked again. She walked to Devitt’s Hardware store to pick up supplies for her house before returning to her car and driving home. Having tried every possible avenue with no success, Elizabeth decided to visit a clairvoyant a few weeks ago.
The clairvoyant said that Elizabeth would find the pendant before the end of this month. “The woman said to me that I was going to find it in October. I was basically told that it is within a 10 mile radius of Ennistymon,” Elizabeth added.
VALUABLE: Elizabeth’s missing pendant.
SEE pages 6&7 for more
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Index PINK POWER SPORT
Inside The Clare Echo FEATURES: PAGE 8
Life’s a drag for Gala owner...
12-13
18
ARE YOU A TOWNIE?
19-22
In a week of raising awareness and funds for local charities, we visited Gala owner Laurence O’Brien as he got dressed up and had his legs waxed for the cause.
23
OPINION REGIONAL NOTES
24-25
BUSINESS
26-27
MOTORING
30-34
PROPERTY
36-37
GET IN TOUCH
THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017
NEWS: PAGE 6-7
Widow’s search for pendant
SPORT: PAGE 19
‘Bridge over troubled water In Clare Echo Sport this week, we look back on an enthralling county final replay while Martin Daly looks ahead to the football showdown this weekend. Lauren Guilfoyle looks at the incredible career of Niall Gilliagan and his continued service to hurling.
We meet a North Clare woman who is desperately trying to locate a sentimental piece of jewellery which was made using her husband’s wedding ring.
THE CLARE ECHO
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l THINK PINK: Third class students of Scoil Mhichil Ciosog raise money and awareness for charity by dressing up in pink. Photo by Julie Tillett / Clare Echo
60 jobs set for Ennis and Quilty ELAINE TUBRIDY news@clareecho.ie
ADVERT I To learn how we can promote your business call us on 065 671 9021 or email ciara.farrell@clareecho.ie.
N BRILLIANT news for the Clare economy,the Vitalograph plant in Ennis has announced 50 new jobs while a further 10 jobs have been created in West Clare. Healthcare company Vitalograph, which already employs 100 in the Gort Road Industrial Estate, is a multi-national company which has been operating in Clare since 1974. Software designers and engineers will soon be on the
lookout for jobs in Ennis as the positions are set to be filled over the coming six months. Welcoming the announcement of the jobs and a €12 million investment, Clare Fine Gael TD Joe Carey said he hoped it would be the first of a series of major employment initiatives in the Ennis area. “These are high value jobs, including software designers and engineers, and the fact that they will be working on such an exciting project as testing the efficacy of new cough medicines, opens up the possibility of even greater levels of investment.”
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Email: elaine.tubridy@clareecho.ie
I’m delighted to be part of today’s milestone TD Pat Breen
Deputy Carey added that he is now working on a proposal to rejuvenate the Business and Technology Park, which is currently marketed as Ennis Information Age Park. The company designs and manufactures respiratory and
cardiology devices. Minister of State Pat Breen was on hand at Vitalograph to cut the ribbon on their brand new offices. “I’m delighted to be part of today’s milestone and it is a very positive reinforcement of our position in the global pharmaceutical, medical and clinical testing sector,” he added. Meanwhile, 10 new jobs have been announced at the Wild Irish Seaweed Company in Quilty. Wild Irish Seaweed is sustainably harvested by the Talty family and is 100 per cent naturally grown.
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THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017
Euro award for Scattery
ELAINE TUBRIDY
S
news@clareecho.ie
C A T T E R Y Island was crowned the winner of the prestigious 2017 European Destination of Excellence (EDEN) award earlier this week. EDEN is an EU project promoting sustainable tourism development and is held every two years in 29 member states. Scattery Island Heritage and Development Chairperson Diarmuid Whelan said the Shannon Estuary island has always been special for the people of West Clare and this award will help it be recognised worldwide. “This will be of benefit to the whole West Clare region from a business and sustainable tourism point of view. “This award along with the soon to be published Clare County Council and OPW’s Management Plan for the island means the future is very bright for Scattery and we are excited to be part of these upcoming developments,” he added. Scattery Island is the third Clare destination
DESTINATION OF EXCELLENCE: Paddy Mathews Head of Investment Failte Ireland, Cllr Ian Lynch and members of Scattery island Heritage Group, Minister Brendan Griffin, Joe Carey TD and local representatives. Photo by Eamon Ward to win the prestigious award after the Burren Food Trail (2015) and Loop Head Peninsula (2010). Uninhabited since
1979, Scattery Island - also known as Inis Cathaigh - is located approximately one mile from Kilrush in the Shannon Estuary and
is home to a monastery founded in the early sixth century by St. Senan. The island features the ruins of six churches
and one of the highest Round Towers in Ireland at 120ft. high. Mayor of Clare Tom McNamara commented: “I want to congrat-
ulate Scattery Island Heritage and Development Group which over the past five years has worked with the State Bodies such as the
OPW and Clare County Council to improve the present state of Scattery Island and to preserve its buildings and heritage. “The group also has worked hard to promote the island’s rich cultural and historical significance in order to increase visitor numbers in a sustainable manner.” The Local Authority congratulated the Scattery Island Heritage and Development Group on the achievement which will result in the island benefiting from free marketing supports from Fáilte Ireland, including a professional photo shoot to be used for promotional purposes. Also, the EU will profile the winning destination from each Member State on www.edenineurope. eu and will offer each winning destination, participation in the EU EDEN network. Founding member of the Scattery Island Heritage and Development Group Rita McCarthy said the group is delighted at the win. “The award is just recognition of Scattery Island’s unique heritage, history and natural beauty and will highlight its attraction as a sustainable tourism destination for West Clare,” she added.
Clare trad music icon passes Kilmaley native O’Loughlin featured on earliest trad recordings and won lifetime achivement award ELAINE TUBRIDY news@clareecho.ie
CLARE ICON: O’Loughlin
GIFTED Kilmaley musician Peadar O’Loughlin has passed away at the age of 87, after a long career as one of Co Clare’s most loved performers. Born in the late 1920s, Peadar was the second youngest of 13 children and his home was known for often hosting travelling musicians. Peadar was an exceptional performer, and he delighting audiences with the flute, fiddle and uileann pipes since the 1940s. He featured on one of the first recordings of Irish traditional music, an LP entitled “All Ireland Champi-
ons Violin” with Paddy Canny, PJ Hayes and Bridie Lafferty. Peadar joined the Tulla Ceili Band in 1958, and featured on a number of other records throughout the years. He was awarded the Gradam Saoil (Lifetime Achievement Award) by TG4 in 2005 and also featured as a master teacher at the Willie Clancy Summer School in Miltown Malbay. Peadar’s Funeral Mass will take place in St John’s Church Kilmaley on Thursday at noon.
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THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017
Reward for A clairvoyant said that Elizabeth would find the pendant before the end of this month ELAINE TUBRIDY
A
elaine.tubridy@clareecho.ie
North Clare woman has had her heart broken not just once, but twice, following the loss of a piece of jewellery that intrinsically connected her to her late hus-
HEARTBREAKING: Elizabeth’s husband James passed away six years ago.
RP_Clare Echo Ad_310x148mm OCT 2017.indd 2
band. Her beloved James sadly passed away six years ago and Elizabeth had a pendant made out of his wedding ring to keep him close to her at all times. The pendant is adorned with rubies that Elizabeth and her husband bought together years ago from a friend. It’s very valuable as well as hugely sentimental. “My husband and I bought the rubies many, many years ago and I held them in safe keeping until such time as I could afford to do something with them. “Last year I combined them with an emerald and my husband’s wedding ring was used to make the base of the pendant,” she
said. Elizabeth was horrified to discover that she lost the necklace just 12 days after collecting it from the jewellers. In a cruel twist of fate, the pendant was misplaced the day after James’s anniversary and the day before his birthday. Elizabeth was in a state of shock for months after losing the necklace, so she is now renewing her appeal to find the pendant that means so much to her. “My hope is that it is in a box somewhere and I’m just hopeful that if it was picked up that the person who has it doesn’t realise the huge sentimental value that I have associated with it. I am genuinely offering a reward for it,” she said. Elizabeth lost the pendant on October 3, 2016, when she was running an errand in Ennistymon. She parked for a short while in the church car park, before getting back into her car and driving to the Teach Cheoil where she parked again. She walked to Devitt’s Hardware store to pick up supplies for her house before returning to her car and driving home. “I was out of the house for an hour and a half and the second I came in the door I realised I wasn’t wearing it. I immediately
25/10/2017 12:43:41
NEWS 7
THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017 THE CLARE ECHO
widow’s lost pendant Having tried every possible avenue with no success, Elizabeth decided to visit a clairvoyant a few weeks ago. The clairvoyant said that Elizabeth would find the pendant before the end of this month. “The woman said to me that I was going to find it in October. I was basically told that it is within a 10 mile radius of Ennistymon,” Elizabeth added. Though James was born in Dublin, the
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The pendant was made for love really SENTIMENTAL VALUE: The pendant in question. retraced my steps and my friends helped me enormously,” Elizabeth said. Following the advice of a friend, Elizabeth documented her footsteps for the entire time she was out of the house. She even borrowed a metal detector and went through every blade of grass outside the church in Ennistymon, but had no success with it. Elizabeth went to the Gardaí, as well as all of the schools and made ap-
peals in the local media, but no one had seen the pendant. She searched her home from top to bottom and painstakingly went through the gravel outside her house. “I’ve obviously scoured my house. I went through the gravel in front of my house bucket by bucket so I know it’s not in the house, it’s not anywhere nearby. It is genuinely lost,” Elizabeth said.
pair lived in California together before he passed away. They were married at 12 noon on Valentine’s Day in San Francisco right under the dome in City Hall in 2000. The pair then continued their wedding celebrations by honeymooning in Hawaii, but their joy together was cut short when James passed away from cancer after just over a decade of marriage at the age of 61. “We were together for eleven and a half years. We had an amazing, really loving
marriage and he passed away sadly on October 2, six years ago this month,” Elizabeth said. On one of their anniversaries, James had seven of the rubies made into a ring - just before he started his battle with cancer. Though Elizabeth had never really had any interest in Facebook before losing her precious pendant, she recently set up a Facebook page in the hope that someone might recognise the necklace. All of her friends have also shared images of the pendant on the social media site. “I just want to say thank you to all of my family, friends, neighbours and community. Their support has been huge. It’s meant an awful lot to me,” Elizabeth said. Elizabeth is keen to stress that she is offering a generous award for the safe return of her pendant, even though she is not a wealthy person. She had not finished paying off the cost of making the pendant when she lost it and had to continue the instalments for months afterwards. Elizabeth recently distributed 150 flyers in her local area, all of which contain her phone number: 087 160 4323. “We had a very loving marriage and basically the pendant was made for love really, which is why I am so anxious to get it back,” Elizabeth said. If you have any information on the missing pendant please contact The Clare Echo on 065 671 9021 or Elizabeth on 087 160 4323.
8 NEWS
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THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017
Remnants of 21-year-old wreckage wash up in Clare PAT FLYNN
DISCOVERY: The fish box in Fanore.
news@clareecho.ie
Credit: Liam McNamara, Burren Shores Beachcombers
A FISH box from a boat that sank off Waterford over 21 years ago has been found on a beach in Co Clare after Storm Ophelia. The 40-foot Jenalisa sank with her crew of three off Brownston Head in Tramore Bay in February 1996. Three fishermen, Peter Nolan (39), Niall Power (21) and Conor O’Grady (25) lost their lives in the tragedy however only the body of Mr O’Grady was found. The skipper/owner, Peter Nolan, was well respected in the fishing community and described as a committed member of the Dunmore East Fishermen’s Co-op. A fish box from the ill-fated boat was found washed up on the shore at Fanore Beach in North Clare on Wednesday. Printed on the side was “Peter Nolan - Dunmore East Co-op”. Beachcomber Liam McNamara
photograph. I took the photos on Wednesday on Fanore Beach. It was my first venture out after Hurricane Ophelia and the first time I’ve been able to return such personal items with a tragic tale,” Liam said. “Various family members and friends have been in touch and arrangements are being finalized to get the box back down to Dunmore East and home,” he added. Last March, Liam also found a tag from a fishing boat that famously survived the ‘Perfect Storm’ off the US coast in 1991. A movie was made about the October 1991 tragedy which claimed the FV (fishing vessel) Andrea Gail and her crew while her sister ship the FV Hannah Boden survived the storm. Both boats had been fishing off Massachusetts when they encountered a raging storm which eventually sank the Andrea Gail.
didn’t realise the poignant signifi- book page asking if anyone knew by friends and relatives of Mr Nocance of the what he found until the owner. lan. he posted the photo on the BurLiam and quickly learned of the “I had no idea before posting ren Shore Beachcombers Face- box’s history and was contacted the significance of the box and
Lar’s a drag king
Gala owner gets dressed to impress while raising a €2,000 for good causes ELAINE TUBRIDY
elaine.tubridy@clareecho.ie
GALA shop owner and Dainty Daisy Miss Congeniality winner Laurence O’Brien has raised a fantastic €2,000 for the Rape Crisis Centre in Ennis. Laurence donned a purple dress, a blonde wig and a pair of scarlet heels and bravely let his staff members and customers have a go at waxing his legs. “I’d like to thank our dedicated staff and loyal customers and suppliers for their support for such a worthy cause,” he added. The Dainty Daisies took to the stage on Friday night and performed lip sync battles and giant household tasks, with a few surprises thrown in for good measure. John McNulty took the tiara in the end, but Laurence was voted Miss Congeniality. “They’re a great bunch of men, they have found their feminine side,” Laurence said. All 12 Dainty Daisies came up with their own fundraising ideas to help with the running costs of the local Rape Crisis Centre. It costs upwards of €40,000 year
Laurence at his shop in Cloughleigh last week. to give vital services to those who have been affected by abuse. “With me doing silly things like this, is to try to encourage men to come forward in particular and to come and seek help. From that point of view I think it’s a very worthy cause. “We talk about people who have been abused, we talk about institutional abuse and we come down then on the institution that caused the abuse, but we don’t actually talk about what happens to the victim afterwards, that is why this is so, so important,” Laurence said. According to the Rape Crisis Centre, fewer than 32 per cent of survivors reported the sexual violence to Gardaí. “It is for a very good cause, to encourage men in particular, and women, to come forward and to seek help. The Rape Crisis Centre is a very unique charity in that they can’t put a sign over the door saying we’re here, we’re the Rape Crisis Centre,” Laurence added.
THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017
NEWS
THE CLARE ECHO
9
Caitriona Lucas posthumously awarded for her bravery ELAINE TUBRIDY
C
elaine.tubridy@clareecho.ie
l HERO: Caitriona Lucas tragically lost her life trying to save others.
AITRIONA Lucas was posthumously awarded a Gold Medal for Bravery at the National Bravery Awards, held in Dublin over the weekend. Collected by Caitriona’s family, the gold medal is the highest award that can possibly be given by the State to an individual. The mother of two died tragically while searching for a missing man off the coast of Kilkee last September. Ceann Comhairle Seán Ó’Fearghaíl said it is important to acknowledge bravery and courageous acts. “Caitriona’s courage and selfless action on that day says everything about her – her
strength of character and spirit and willingness to help others. It is also a reminder of how committed and brave members of our emergency services put their lives on the line on a daily basis to help and protect their communities,” he added. Teenager Darren McMahon was also awarded a Certificate of Bravery for attempting to save his brother from drowning in the Fergus River in Ennis. His brother was kayaking when his boat became trapped in the weir gate at the Maid of Eireann roundabout. He was flushed out and made it out the other side safely, but Darren couldn’t see this and jumped in to save his brother. The honours are awarded by Comhairle na Mire Gaile – the Deeds of Bravery Council – which was established in 1947 to provide for suitable recognition by the State of deeds of bravery.
10 NEWS
THE CLARE ECHO
THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017
Low interest loans help Clare farmers reduce debt STUART HOLLY
M
editor@clareecho.ie
ORE than a hundred Clare farmers have availed of low interest loans from the Strategic Banking Corporation to pay down more expensive forms of shortterm debt. Responding to Clare Fine Gael TD Joe Carey, Agriculture Minister Michael Creed confirmed that the average amount borrowed was €32.704 at an interest rate of 2.95 per cent and 57 per cent of the loans were for three years or more. Deputy Carey, who is chairman of the Oireachtas committee on rural and community affairs, had asked Minister Creed of his plans to provide for the introduction of low cost loans for farming enterprises. The Minister said that low- RURAL AFFAIRS: Minister Michael Creed with Deputy Joe Carey on a recent visit to Clare
Ennis Sinn Féin chair elected ENNIS Sinn Féin has unanimously elected Tommy Guilfoyle as its new Cataiorleach following a meeting on October 19 in ‘The Local’, Ennis. Tommy Guilfoyle said following the meeting; “I am honoured and humbled to have been unanimously elected to the position of Sinn Féin Cataiorleach. To help build and grow Sinn Féin in Ennis.” “Sinn Féin in Ennis is actively supporting Ennis health workers in the face of Government cutbacks, calling for action on homelessness and for more social and affordable housing in Ennis, for an end to cutbacks in social services and for invest-
ment in Clare’s emergency ambulance service.” Tommy added; “In Clare, at the next General Election, Sinn Féin will offer the alternative to the tweedledee-tweedledum politics of Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil. We will offer Clare voters a rights based society...Sinn Féin is also building towards the next local elections. We are working to win a seat on Clare Co Council, in Ennis and to be part of an increased number of Sinn Féin elected representatives in Clare.” “Ennis Sinn Féin membership and support has grown over the past 12 months and we are eager for new activists to join the party.”
Report highlights sewage problem Untreated sewage being pumped into the water system in five Clare locations
Dr Michael Harty TD Constituency Office 3 Daly Villa's, Carmody Street, Ennis, County Clare Tel No: 065-6868505 Email michael.harty@oireachtas.ie
Clinics every Monday and Friday by appointment
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er cost finance was an effective way of doing this. The Government had developed the “Agriculture Cashflow Support Loan Scheme” with the Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland (SBCI) to provide low interest loans to farmers. Administered through AIB, Bank of Ireland and Ulster Bank, the scheme provides farmers with a low cost, flexible source of working capital, allowing them to pay down more expensive forms of short-term debt. Up to the end of August, there have been 3,920 loan drawdowns amounting to €128,199,316. This is an average loan amount of €32,704 with 57 per cent of the loans are for terms of three years or more. Minister Creed told Deputy Carey that he was pleased at the very positive reaction by farmers to the Scheme, which has proved that significant demand exists for low cost flexible finance.
21/03/2017 13:04:53
ELAINE TUBRIDY
elaine.tubridy@clareecho.ie
A NEW Environmental Protection Agency Report has identified five sites in Co Clare where untreated sewage is being pumped into the water system. Ballyvaughan, Clarecastle, Kilkee, Kilrush and Liscannor are all identified as sites that have no treatment or preliminary treatment only. Irish Water claims it has now appointed engineering service providers to undertake detailed design, planning and procurement services of the wastewater infrastructure requirements for these areas. Irish Water Head of Asset Management Seán Laffey commented: “As with drinking water, Irish Water as a single utility can for the first time have an over-arching strategy on wastewater. “This planned approach will in time deliver sustained benefits in
terms of improved compliance in wastewater treatment. “The EPA report correctly reflects the size and scale of the challenge facing Irish Water as we work to meet the needs of homes and businesses around the country and facilitate future growth.” It is envisaged that planning, design and construction will take approximately three to four years and will be undertaken between 2017 and 2021. Invasive species and other environmental surveys are already underway. “The lead in time for building or upgrading a wastewater treatment plant can be up to three years to ensure that all planning, regulatory, environmental and statutory obligations are met. Site selection, public consultation and site purchase are also vital parts of the process.
“A substantial amount of this preparatory work is underway and people will see the outcome of this work over the coming years as construction begins on more and more sites,” Mr Laffey added. The EPA report found that Sewage from the equivalent of 120,000 people across 44 areas still enters the environment untreated each day. EPA Office of Environmental Enforcement Director Gerard O’Leary said that wastewater from over half the population failed to meet environmental standards. “For many years Ireland failed to address the deficiencies in wastewater treatment. “Substantial and sustained investment is now required to protect our valuable waterways and protect public health,” he added.
THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017
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Pink power at the Clare Gaelscoil Clare pupils dress up for charity
T
HERE was great excitement on Friday as Scoil Mhichil Ciosog in Ennis turned pink to raise some much needed funds and awareness for breast cancer. The Clare Echo caught up with Ranga a Trí at the Clare County Library where they sang a few songs and showed off their pink outfits. Third class students were among up to 400
pupils who got involved in events on Friday. Teacher Aoife De Butleir told The Clare Echo, “Ranga a Trí and the entire school are dressing up in pink today to raise money and awareness for breast cancer. Múinteoir Carmel is in charge of the project in the school and she distributes the money between various charities and organisations.” A big well done to everyone involved!
Back row Conor O Maolruanaidh, Tadhg Conway, Brian O Loinsigh, Conor O Gearain, Tadhg O hIomhair, Ronan O Conaroin, Finn O Currain, Ryan Mac Giolla Phadraig. Front Row Luke O Beachain, Iarfhlaith O Finn Spealasa, Shane Sanz, Daithi Murch. Photo by Julie Tillett
SCHOOLS 13
THE CLARE ECHO THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017
WIGGING OUT: Oisin O Tiarnaigh is all smiles at the County Library in Ennis last weekend.
Photo by Julie Tillett
ALL SMILES: Third class students of Scoil Mhichil Ciosog raise money and awareness for charity by dressing up in pink. Photo by Julie Tillett / Clare Echo
Lynch’s raise over €3,000 for charity
IT’S FOR A WHEELY GREAT CAUSE: Staff and customers at Lynch’s Centra on the Gort Road spent 24 hours in total wheeling three bikes to raise money for charity Photo by John Mangan
LYNCH’S 24 hour Centra on the Gort Road in Ennis raised over €3,000 at their charity cycle last weekend. Loyal customers and over 70 staff pedalled three bikes for 24 hours to mark Breast Cancer Awareness month. Shop owner Barry Lynch was among the first to hop on the bike and he was back in the saddle for the last hour of the event. The Clare Echo visited Centra while the 24 charity cycle was in full swing and we spoke to Barry about how they were getting on. “We’re getting a great response from our customers and there’s a great buzz in the shop,” he said. Cycle participant Donal confirmed that he had put in extensive training efforts to make sure he was prepared for the event. “I got up and I walked from the car into the shop, that was it,” he added. He also joked that he was expecting a massage afterwards from Barry Lynch himself. The team raised €3382.75 in total and the funds will go directly to charities supporting those going through breast cancer. Centra shops around the country hosted countless fundraising events throughout the month of October to raise money for breast cancer. “We would like to thank our dedicated staff and customers for supporting this great cause,” a spokesperson for Lynch’s said yesterday.
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THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017
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Of course it’s an issue. There is only one full time Garda station from Loop Head to Ballyvaughan and that’s in Kilrush! That’s insane. in reaction to lack of plans to Angela Coll reopen Garda stations in Clare
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STORY WITH MOST VIEWS ON WEBSITE: 5,056 Gardai reveal one Clare location they’ll target today for National Slow Down Day TAKING care on the roads is so important and that’s why the gardai have released a list of locations they’ll be targeting in a bid to encourage drivers to stay under the limit and drive safely. National Slow Down Day will see a large garda presence on the roads and in Clare, the N68 Knockalough Kilmihil has been included on the list of locations nationwide that will be targeted. Storm Brian is in our midst and with it Status Orange weather warnings, so that’s going to make the roads even more treacher-
ous. Chief Superintendent Finbarr Murphy of the Roads Policing Bureau said: “We appeal to drivers to work with us and play their part in reducing injury and tragedy on the road, by supporting our National Slow Down Day. “Please stick strictly to the posted speed limit, but if the road, traffic or especially weather conditions dictate… reduce your speed even further. “This will make the journey safer not only for you, but for every road user sharing the road with you.”
INTEREST: National Slow Down Day.
Photo: Nick’s 999 Photography
THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017 THE CLARE ECHO
NEWS 15
Heroes in a half shell descend on Ennis STUART HOLLY editor@clareecho.ie
l SSSS-SUCCESSFUL DAY: Some of the animals in the mini zoo.
ENNIS pet shop Precious Pets had a fun day last Saturday with hundreds of visitors coming to see the arrival of a number of exotic pets, including a racoon dog, a giant snake, an alpaca and a selection of wild and exotic birds. Barry O’Driscoll of Precious Pets, which is based on the corner of the Market and Summerhill, told The Clare Echo that after almost two decades of trading, they decided to throw an animal party while putting on some deals for customers as well as face painting for the young ones. “We’re having an open day here today. “We’re trading 18 years and we’ve never done this before and we said we’d try and do something different,” Mr O’Driscoll told The Clare Echo. “We now have this yard in the middle of town that has just become available to us and we
just thought we’d do something for our customers and also have a sales promotion.” He added that they enlisted the services of Uncle Mike’s, the company which provided the animals for the day.
He added, “The Alpaca has drawn huge attention, as has the miniature pony. And the racoon dog, which is exceptionally rare, as well as the giant snake.” One visitor added, “It was great fun for the kids to hold a real-life snake and see loads of different animals. It’s such a unique event to happen in Ennis, we all had a brilliant time.”
l ALL TALK: Parrot at the Precious Pets Open Day.
Precious Pets Testimonial Precious Pets had our first open day with the arrival of a mini zoo on Saturday 21st of October and we had advertised with the Clare Echo. The circulation of 12,000 copies around the county from a new publication appealed to us. On the day there was a severe weather alert from storm Brian but there was nothing we could do as everything had already been arranged. We were very pleasantly surprised when hundreds of people showed up and the numbers were constant all day. It must have been from the advertising. Thank you Stuart and all the Clare Echo.
16 THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
THE CLARE ECHO THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017
Ronan Scully
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK Author spreading the word of positivity
Recipe for a Meaningful Life
I AM FAR FROM PERFECT
For some years of my life and at times recently I have been a pretty unhappy person. I didn’t realise it at the time because I just thought this is who I was and that this is what life is about. Don’t get me wrong, I had and have a huge amount of happiness throughout and within my life but I would always drift back into the darkness on many occa-
The happier we are, the healthier we feel sions. Throughout my life I have had times where I have had nothing and also times where I have had everything and anything one could ask for. It didn’t matter. Stuff doesn’t matter. Material things don’t matter. It’s all about what’s inside your head, your heart and your soul. I am far from perfect at any of this and fail miserably at times and have failed seriously badly at times in my living. I have suffered pain, hurt and unkindness and caused pain, hurt and unkindness. I still go through times when I revert back to the dark places of been unloving, uncaring, non believing, fearing, and thus become unhappy, sad, depressed and very anxious. But I keep trying and praying and working to become just a little bit better each day and I am not afraid to talk to someone if I need a listening ear or a helping hand or a caring soul. I try to live this life of serenity I want and need for myself so that I can be a better person to others especially to my family, my friends and work colleagues and to people I am come in contact with by being more grateful and thankful in my living. I take some time to thank the taxi driver for taking me to my destination safely, to thank the postman for bringing me my mail each day, and to thank everyone that helps me in anyway big or small. If we all try to do things like this it will make us feel different, more serene and
happier inside. I love a good laugh and have some great friends who make me laugh out loud. Laugh as much as you can. Laughter is known to be the best medicine for everything. Go to the gym, swim, walk, and run or do something that stimulates the endorphins release in your body. Practice time management. Set your goals, plan them, prioritize them. Express your feelings. Show affection and warmth to the people around you and in that let go of your fears. Find spiritual connections. Keep in mind that the only time we really have is now, just this moment. Don’t expect your future to be a certain way. So what changed for me? I just became willing to change and became stronger in my faith and beliefs and every day
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I was amazed at the rush of energy I got while walking the last stretch of my cliff walk attempt
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ECENTLY while going through my late mother in law’s prayer book, Kay O’Grady from Spancilhill, I came across a few notes scribbled down on the back pages entitled a ‘recipe for a meaningful life’ and it really got me thinking. We all know that our health is being affected by the degree of happiness we feel in our lives. The happier we are, the healthier we feel. So, starting now this week, make the decision to be happy and to try and live a meaningful life! Living a meaningful and happy life I feel lies in making others happy, in forsaking self-interest and greed to bring joy to others. Live a life that portrays the true meaning of that: ‘It is in giving we receive’. Giving happiness to others is tremendously important to our own happiness, and one of the most satisfying experiences in life. To live for self in a greedy way is the source of all misery. I believe that if you are being of spiritual, physical, mental, material and loving service to others, you will find your own needs fulfilled.
although some days can be tougher and harder than others, I make a conscious decision and effort to seek happiness, peace, compassion, mercy, love and serenity in my life. I constantly pray the serenity prayer that has become one of the cornerstones or crutches of my life and it makes me want to become a better loving, caring and compassionate person each day. The happier I am, the more useful I am to myself and everyone around me especially to my family, my friends, my work colleagues and to the world around me.
TRYING TO LIVE SERENELY
Other ways I try to live a serene and meaningful life is to really listen when people talk to you. Don’t just wait for them to finish their sentence so you can talk. Always try as much as you can to do something nice for someone each day especially for your loved ones and colleagues and try to do it without looking for credit or awards. HOLIDAY: It’s important to have some time out.
Meditate and pray if you can and try to make time for it no matter how busy your life gets. It helps to recharge the batteries. Try not to gossip or spread rumours or bully or be unkind to other people. Accept things as they are and always strive for the truth. Try as much as possible to be passionate about everything or anything you do. Give to others especially those in most need in our world. Nothing brings more fulfillment to me than the feeling of helping someone else and it is true what they say: ‘it is in giving we truly do receive’. Surround yourself with positive people. I have tried to stop caring so much about what other people think even though I can be a real worrier about things at times.
TAKE A HOLIDAY
Take a holiday if you can and if you can afford it. Holidays are rejuvenating and energising. They will get you physically away from all the day-to-day cares of living and allow you to focus on things that you enjoy. Quiet your mind. Prayer and meditation are powerful tools that can help you quiet and discipline the rumblings of your mind. Push past the pain. Terrible stuff happens. It’s natural. But it’s in our power to push past these times. Nurture your spirit. Happy people have a rich spiritual life and strong beliefs, and this positively supports their growth. Act now. Smile a lot. Your smile will make others smile.
THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK
My mother in law Kay was always happy and full of life and lived a meaningful life in my eyes by the way she cared and loved everyone! I will leave you with a beautiful poem I love called, ‘A Time To Believe’ by B.J. Morbitzer that helps me in my faith and believing and it goes as follows - “To believe is to know that every day is a new beginning. Is to trust that miracles happen, and dreams really do come true. To believe is to see angels dancing among the clouds, To know the wonder of a stardust sky and the wisdom of the man in the moon. To believe is to know the value of a nurturing heart, The innocence of a child’s eyes and the beauty of an aging hand, for it is through their teachings we learn to love. To believe is to find the strength and courage that lies within us. When it’s time to pick up the pieces and begin again. To believe is to know we are not alone, That life is a gift and this is our time to cherish it. To believe is to know that wonderful surprises are just waiting to happen, And all our hopes and dreams are within reach. If only we believe.”
NEWS 17
THE CLARE ECHO THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017
Ennistymon Men’s Shed exhibition schools, charities, community and voluntary groups. Amongst those that will be invited to apply are community and voluntary groups, charities, schools and businesses. In 2017, ten voluntary community projects received funding from the Environment Section of Clare County Council under the Waste Prevention Programme. Pictured left is Paul Conway and David McDonnell, Ennistymon Men’s Shed with Barbara Ó Conchúir, Community Development and Family Support Worker, North West Clare Family Resource Centre, Edelle Costelloe, Environmental Education and Awareness, Clare County Council and Karen Foley, Environmental Awareness Officer Clare Co Co at Ennistymon Men’s Shed supporting and participating in Reuse Month 2017.
STUART HOLLY editor@clareecho.ie
Ennistymon Men’s Shed supports National Reuse Month Members of Ennistymon Men’s Shed have marked National Reuse Month 2017 by exhibiting their renovated work shed, a donated shipment container that has been transformed into a year round shed for use by the group. The container, which is located in the grounds of the North West Clare Family Resource Centre in Ennistymon, was renovated through the 2017 Clare County Council Waste Prevention Programme. The grant funding, which is expected to be announced again in early 2018, aims to support communities to take steps on waste prevention, re-use and repair activities in their local areas, and encourage partnership between local businesses, local
Photo by Eamon Ward
Clare’s six new firefighters attend specialist training REPORTER news@clareecho.ie
SIX of Clare’s newest Firefighters have attended a speicalist training centre in the north-west. The firefighting course is the last part of the prospects’ recruitment training and took place over three days in the specialist training centre in Ballinrobe, Co Mayo. The course trains firefighters how to deal with a fire in a compartment and deals with fire scenarios including “Flashover” and “Backdraught”. Pictured at the training centre (left, back row left to right, include Graham Touhy from Killaloe, Greg Dormer from Ennis and Darragh Kelly from Scarriff. On the front row (L to R) is Ryan Adams from Shannon, Aidan Ryan from Killaloe and Killian McLoughlin from Shannon.
SEE THE STORY ON FACEBOOK
18 NEWS
THE CLARE ECHO
THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017
l A WORLD OF ITS OWN: O’Connell Street in Ennis is the epicentre of all that’s good about our county capital. This photo was taken from The Clare Echo HQ.
Are you a townie, man? This week our online story with the biggest response, reaching a huge 22,000 readers, explored 10 things that Ennis townies of a certain vintage will immediately relate to.
H
ERE at The Clare Echo, we love every corner of County Clare. From the rolling hills and lakes of East Clare to the imposing cliffs and beaches of our majes-
tic coastline. But the people of Clare are what makes The Banner County really tick, so with that in mind we’ve decided to list the 10 ways to tell if you’re a townie. Follow this checklist and if it all seems too familiar, you’re definitely hardcore Ennis – even if you don’t want to be (Clarecastle people, we’re looking at you!)
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THE CRUISE ROUTE If you have to ask what the cruise route is, you’re not a bonafide townie. But we’ll fill you anyway. If you see the same car driving down O’Connell Street twice in 10 minutes, your eyes don’t deceive you. Somebody is doing laps of the town.
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GO’WAY YOU LURK One of Ennis’ finest expressions. Often said in the hallowed halls of St Flannan’s and Rice College down through the years, lurk is a great slang term but can be very hurtful if used carelessly. CUZ I’M FROM E-TOWN, TIL AH DIE, TILL AH DIE A viral online hit about two years ago, rap tune ‘E-Town til I die’ is a song about the trials and tribulations of growing up on the mean streets of Ennis. By the lovable rogues of the La Familia crew. HANGING OUT AT THE HEIGHT As actor Mark O’Halloran once said in an interview, “You were a nobody in Ennis if you hadn’t sat at the Height at least once in your youth.” This one is a bit more general and a term known by most Clare people to mean O’Connell Square.
TONY’S FASHIONS AND HIS AMAZING BAGS Okay so this one’s for pre-millennials. Tony’s Fashions was a great men’s clothes shop in the Market. On the carrier bag was written: Tony’s Fashions. New York, London, Paris and Ennis. S L U U R R R R ! ! ! This is another of Ennis’ great terms, as the town continues to punch well above its weight in linguistic terms. If something is said to be slur, it’s not of any interest. Example, “Did you see the new Kevin Costner movie?” “No, worth going?” “Don’t bother, it’s slurrrr.” CHRISTMAS EVE Something magical happens in Ennis every Christmas Eve where, as the rest of the country goes home to spend time with their families, the pubs of Ennis fill up and faces not seen in what feels like decades return for a night of debauchery. Easily the best night of
the year in town.
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CENTRAL PARK DISCO Now apartments above the offices of The Clare People, McBeal’s Pub and Nightclub was home to some memorable teenage discos where many’s an Ennis person had their first shift to Celine Dion’s song from Titanic.
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KNOX’S SUPERMARKET That’s right – before Knox’s became one of Ennis’s landmark pubs, it was a supermarket. A supermarket on Abbey Street, who would have thunk it!
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LEGENDARY PUBS Henry J’s, The Porter Stall, Grace McCarthy’s, El Paso’s. Where did it all go wrong? These establishments gave many an Ennis person their first taste of nightlife.
Sport
Our man Martin Daly looks ahead to the football SEE PAGE 21
l DETERMINED: Fergal Lynch struggles to find space as he is hunted down by a group of Sixmilebridge defenders. Photo by Julie Tillet / Clare Echo
‘IT’S JUST BEAUTIFUL’ Sixmilebridge captain Páidi Fitzpatrick tells The Clare Echo his team are inspired after finally regaining Canon Hamilton Sixmilebridge 1-20 Clooney-Quin 1-14 SHC replay at Cusack Park, Sunday, 3.30pm
half put daylight between the sides. However, the captain said that his side’s intensity throughout the game played a key factor in their success. Chances “All things considered, when we really looked honestly at our performance from last week we just weren’t happy with the way it went and it’s not often you get second chances at this and we really, really wanted to make a mark and leave nothing out there for ourselves. It can be a long winter, so we wanted
to drive it from the first minute to the last and I think we did that. In just over a week, Sixmilebridge will take on Ballygunnar or Sarsfields, and Fitzgerald says he wants Sixmilebridge to kick on now in Munster. “They’ll be a huge battle, whichever one it is and wherever it’s on. We want nothing more than to follow in the footsteps of ‘Bridge teams gone before. With three Munster titles, we’d love to add another one to that. “We really have to be look-
ing at the Munster Championship, these chances don’t come around very often and you couldn’t but be jealous of what Ballyea did last year so hopefully that example will drive us on. Manager John O’Meara echoed his captain’s sentiments that the team needed to improve on last week’s performance in the drawn game. On the road “We’re just thrilled to win this one. “It’s super to get over the line. We weren’t happy leav-
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These guys are serious characters and serious individuals and they were hell-bent on a performance
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FTER two thrilling Sundays of battle with underdogs Clooney Quin at Cusack Park, the Sixmilebridge men finally got their hands on the Canon Hamilton at the weekend. After the heroics of Clooney Quin the previous week, Sixmilebridge captain Páidi Fitzpatrick told The Clare Echo that his side were eager. “It ranks right up there. I don’t know if I’m imagining it or not but it feels like this is the hardest earned of them all. “We’ve had titanic battles all the way, no more so than against Clooney Quin, and to get over the line, it’s just brilliant, it’s just beautiful. “I appreciate it more than any of the rest. Brian Corry’s goal in the third minute of the second
John O’Meara
ing here last Sunday and we felt that we didn’t do oursleves justice and really we didn’t put in the performance that we would have been proud of. “Look, these guys are a long time on the road. Thye’re serious characters and serious individuals and they were hell-bent on putting in a performance today whatever the result would be, but putting in the result was the main objective today. “We got off to a great start going three points up and we only went in two points up at half time but the goal directly after half time was a big score. “The main thing is, the result, and that’s all that matters in finals and that the cup is coming back to the ‘Bridge tonight.”
20 SPORT
THE CLARE ECHO
THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017
No man is an island, except for Gilligan... Lauren Guilfoyle
T
HE Club. It may be a cliché, but it’s where it begins and ends. Six years old, tapping a ball around the pitch after your father who is putting the parish’s Intermediates through their paces, dreaming that one day it will be you in the club colours collecting silverware – not caring if it’s a Junior B medal or a coveted Celtic Cross on St Patrick’s Day. Anything for the club will do. The local pitch is no Semple Stadium but it’s your patch. You were there three nights a week as far back as you can remember. The bitter January nights seeing your dinner again, cursing Mick for making you do that last pitch-long sprint - to the Friday night before the county final perfecting your first touch and hoping you’ll get some compliments on your fresh Championship cut. They’re memories you’ll cherish long after the hurley is left into the corner of the shed for the last time. Many who have collected both club and intercounty All Ireland honours will remark they hold the former much closer to their heart. After all, it was those cold winter nights that made you the player you are today. Every club has the great Clubman. Some lucky clubs may even have a few. He’s the guy you wanted looking after every placed ball at U14 level because nothing fazed him. He’s the guy that offered to help out with the U8s after senior training on
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GAA
Six of the hurlers last Sunday hadn’t yet been born
a Saturday morning just to get more time in ‘the bubble’. He’s the guy that will plague local businesses for extra sponsorship because they can’t say no to him – he’s got the charm and the action to back it up. He’s the guy that will give as much as he can for as long as he can – it’s for the Club. On Sunday last, one great clubman collected his sixth Club Senior Championship medal in Cusack Park at 41 years old. In 1997, Niall Gilligan scored three points in the All Ireland Final. Six hurlers involved in last Sunday’s County Final can’t possibly have any recollection of Gilly’s influence on that win – because they hadn’t yet been born. Midway through the second half, the Sixmilebridge management called their leader ashore having contributed two points. And as if to add romance to the story, his replacement was Cathal Lynch – born at the tail of ’97 – to finish the job. In January of 2010, Gilligan retired from the intercounty set-up with two Munster medals, an All Ireland medal and one All Star. He continues to give it all for club, but he gave it all for county too and answered the call to rejoin the world of intercounty hurling – linking up with the Clare Intermediate Hurling team in 2011. While the senior squad endured a difficult period
between league and championship woes; the U21s of ’09, the minors of 2010 and the Intermediates of 2011 gave sustenance to the desires of Clare hurling’s brethren bringing success in varying fashion, ‘Gilly’ adding another Celtic Cross to the collection, 14 years after his first with his new teammates. The 2017 Clare club championship saw him win his sixth medal at this Photo by Julie Tillett / Clare Echo grade, an achievement unheard of in 40 years since the days Newmarket on Fergus held claim to the Canon on 12 occasions. Sixmilebridge won’t be short of motivation to recreate something similar, if it’s at all possible in the modern game. O’Garney Park will be a hive of activity over the coming few weeks as preparations, post well-deserved celebrations, kick into action for John O’Meara and his troops. Munster club championship is
l CHAMPIONS: Niall Gilligan enjoys the moment with his family; Martin Conlan, Bernie Conlan, Sean Conlan , Sarah Conlan and Ella Conlan; Páidi lifts the cup; (bottom left) Cahill Liddane, Roisin Liddane, Caoimhe Liddane, Meadh Scanlon; (right) the heartbroken Clooney Quin team.
next on the list as the ‘Bridge face Ballygunner or Thurles Sarsfields in an away fixture. A win could see a potential rematch with another rival in Na Piarsaigh who have halted Sixmilebridge’s progress in their last two attempts (2013 Munster Final; 2015 Munster QF). Gilligan and co will aim to emulate the fairytale that unfolded for Ballyea last season, if not to go one step further – with experience of the bigger days counting for a lot of what makes this veteran’s presence important. Every club has the great clubman. He’ll give it 100 per cent on the pitch for as long as he can, but rest assured his presence won’t venture too far from the white lines when the time comes and he’ll patrol them in the blue and yellow of the ‘Bridge with the same passion, vigour and devotion as he does when inside them. It’s for the Club, after all.
THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017
SPORT 21
THE CLARE ECHO
Brennan battle key to Clondegad Looking ahead to the SFC County Final this Sunday at Cusack Park, Martin Daly says that Kilmurry Ibrickane must tie down Gary Brennan to ensure they back up their favourtie’s tag
GAA analysis MARTIN DALY
W
HEN Kilmurry Ibrickane’s Keith King pulls off his gloves to shake hand with Gary Brennan, the result will be set in stone, forever in the annals of Clare football history. The preceeding 70 or so minutes will be a war and the battle within that between these two men will go a long way to deciding an outcome. Gary has been an unbelieveable leader for Clondegad and Clare. He brings vast experience. The way he prepares himself as an athlete is an example to everybody and that probably runs through a lot of the younger lads in Clondegad. Needless to say, he’ll have a big say around the middle of the field on Sunday and trying to halt his influence will most likely fall into the hands of Keith King due to his physique. He will have to be in Gary’s face from the throw-in to the final whistle and spoiling Gary’s party is going to be his job for the day. If Gary can cope with that, Clondegad are in with a great shout.
WON & LOST The three Brennans have a big say - Shane is back from injury and won’t be fully fit but will have a big influence - but there will be a few key battles which will decide how far west the cup will travel. Clondegad’s Podge McMahon should be picked up by Mark Killeen. Podge won the semi final for Clondgad against Miltown and he’s their biggest, most natural scoring threat from both play and frees. Mark Killeen is a very experienced youthful lad with a very good head on his shoulders and he’s a very good ball player, so Podge is going to have his work cut out getting the best of him. The big one on the other side of the field that stands out is Kilmurry’s Keelan Sexton against Cillian Brennan. Keelan has a good bit of intercounty experience under his belt with Clare and has been pergforming extremely well. Cillian on the other hand had an excellent semi final and has gradually grown into this championship, especially against Miltown. If Cillian can get in his face on the day,
Clondegad are on the road. BALLYEA’S INFLUENCE Kilmurry are so used to this kind of a day at this stage. In the last number of years they’ve been the kingpins of the Clare football. But at the same time the influence of the Ballyea lads is going to steady the ship for Clondegad. Ballyea being out of the Hurling Championship earlier than they expected gave all those guys full football exposure and because of that, the game plan they’re trying to enforce will come a lot easier. Gearoid O’Connell and particularly Tony Kelly who will show his leadership skills the same on the football field as he does on the hurling field - will bring a calming influence to the Clondegad set-up.
They turned up for the Miltown game and blitzed them. Clondegad won every breaking ball and really showed fire in the belly. On the other hand Kilmurry had a dingdong battle against Cratloe and coming out of a really hard fight at Championship pace will be of huge benifit coming into the final. This is new territory for Clondegad. A couple of years ago it was new for Lissycasey and I know that the biggest thing that we had was to keep it as normal as possible, keep the same routine, same sleeping patterns, same diet, don’t change things just because it’s a county final. Trying to keep players away from the media. Make sure than everything is set in stone so they can execute their gameplan without worrying about the hype of the day.
STRUGGLES Clondegad look like they had their struggles through the quarter and semi-finals. Lisseycasey and Doonbeg especially had their chances to beat them but in a funny way this is going to stand to Clondegad.
VERDICT If it is going to be Kilmurry Ibrickane it’s going to be by a nose. They will need everything to go right on the day but becuase of their experience, I’d have to nudge slightly towards them.
Martin Daly
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22 SPORT
THE CLARE ECHO
THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017
Camogie clubhouse is unveiled
W
hen Clare Camogie Chairperson Joe Robbins addressed all those present at the Official Opening of the Club House at Fr McNamara Camogie Park on Saturday, he concluded with a quote from Seamus Heaney with the last line paraphrased to say “In Clare camogie nothing is beyond us”. From 1.30pm on Saturday afternoon people started to arrive at the newest camogie facilities in the country, located at Bunnow on the Quin Road. There was excitement and delight to know that finally, a dream which started in 1974 was finally coming to fruition. Club players and administrators, camogie and GAA people, representatives from both the National and Provincial Camogie Associations, local and national Government officials all shared one thing in common – a smile that was brighter than the wintery sun that was trying to break through the clouds of Storm Brian. With the event being broadcast live on Scariff Bay Community Radio, Master of Ceremonies for the day, Munster and Clare’s Brid MacNamara gave the five minute warning that events were about to start. Those that were down the corridor admiring the dressing rooms, those that were gathered in the hall reminiscing about the great days portrayed by the pictures on the Wall of Fame, those that were enjoying a cup of tea, all moved forward to gather in the McNicholas Meeting Room. McNamara in her opening ad-
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CAMOGIE
Joe Cooney paid warm tribute to the board
dress paid tribute to Clooney’s Mick Hennessy who started camogie in Clare back in 1934. When she spoke of Clare’s first National title when they won the Junior All Ireland Championship in 1974, she referred to one woman in particular, Kitty McNicholas, “a woman who dreamed big, who dreamed bold and who started us on the journey that finally sees fruition 43 years later and who I am thrilled to say is here with us today”. There was a spontaneous round of applause for the woman for whom the meeting room at these facilities is named for. Chairman of Clare GAA Joe Cooney paid warm tribute to the Board on the work that had been done by so many to arrive at such a special day in their history. He spoke of the great working relationship between both bodies and wished Clare Camogie well for the future. Minister of State Pat Breen spoke next and congratulated all present on the work they had done to arrive at this day. Mr Robbins dedicated the meeting room to Kitty McNicholas as
l GRAND OPENING: Catherine O’Loughlin Treasurer Clare Camogie, Jim McNicholas Trustee of Fr McNamara Camogie Park, Orla & Emma Conisidine Photo credit: Caroline O’Keeffe & David Dillon
a worthy tribute to a woman who had done so much to secure a home for Clare Camogie. RTEs Eileen Dunne wished Clare Camogie all the best for the future and then invited those present to join her out front for the official unveiling and the cut-
ting of the ribbon. Chairperson Joe Robbins joined Ms Dunne for the unveiling of the plaque at the entrance to the building and with that the honour of being the first person to enter the building fell to Kitty McNicholas.
Soccer
Newmarket Celtic A Team pictured with sponsors Western Garages Volkswagen in Ennis, who are sponsoring a whole range of socks, training tops and gear. Photo by Brian Arthur
Ennis RFC make it two in a row RUGBY Munster J3 League Tralee 25 Ennis 27
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NNIS RFC’s first XV grabbed their second win in a row on Sunday as they overcame Tralee in a thrilling encounter away from home. Ennis are growing in confidence having beaten Charleville a week earlier, another away fixture, and their league campaign is truly back up and running after this latest win. With the wind at their backs in the first half, Ennis played some open running rugby and forced Tralee into conceding a number of early penalties. They were struggling at the breakdown. Ennis outhalf Bryan Murphy capitalised with a penalty to make it 3-0.
However a break from the Tralee full back soon after put the Ennis defence under huge pressure and eventually lead to a penalty which they converted. The Tralee back line continued to run great lines and were making a few line breaks one of which eventually led to a try in the corner which they converted to make it 10 to 3. Strong Ennis pressure led to another penalty from Bryan Murphy before the outhalf increased his personal points tally to 13 after scoring a converted try. Tralee came back strong however and managed to get another try before half time to lead 17 to 13 at the break. The second half started well for the
Kerry side and a great break by a Tralee winger gave them another try which they converted to make it 24 to 13. But Ennis weren’t finished yet and some great work by David Flynn moved Ennis up the field before his backrow colleague Stephen Ryan scored a try. The game was in the balance at this point with both sides playing really attacking rugby. Eventually Tralee won a penalty which they converted to make it 27 to 18. More Pressure from Ennis and a great line out steal from Enda Galvin resulted in a second try for Stephen Ryan making it 27 to 25. Tralee once again piled on the pressure but some great defence from Ennis
kept Tralee at bay. Ennis managed to get a hold of the ball for one last play up the field and a break from scrum half Ronan O’Halloran won the game for Ennis as he side-stepped a number of players to score under the posts. Ennis continue their league campaign on Sunday week at home to Dungarvan.
Ennis: A Ryan, N Downes, L Ryan, J Con, E Galvin, G McGonagle, D Flynn, Stephen Ryan, Dylan & Ronan, Bryan Murphy, J Brophie, F Coffey, S Lynch, G Lernihan Subs: J smith, N O’Loughlin, J Queally, Shane o Grady, Eddie cotter
COLUMNISTS 23
THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017 THE CLARE ECHO
Eoin Neylon
EDITOR’S OPINION
An inside look at Clare’s political spectrum
Stuart Holly
Voting figures make a fascinating read
H
Waiting for Tommy’s call
I
RECEIVED a phonecall earlier this week from a Clare Echo reader who wanted to talk about our new newspaper. Of the many times I’ve picked up the receiver, many to hear well-wishers on the other end of the line, this is the one time that stands strongest in my memory. The man gave his name as Tommy. I didn’t get a surname or a location. Tommy was friendly and amicable, gave our new publication his best wishes and proceeded to tell me in no uncertain terms that he wouldn’t be picking up The Clare Echo ever again. Just what an editor wants to hear. The bones of our phone conversation rattled on for about five minutes as we fleshed out his disregard for sports coverage in The Clare Echo. It went something like this: “You had four pages of sport in your paper which was dominated by women’s rugby, a minority sport in Clare. The County Hurling final (the drawn game) last week is recognised as the greatest final of this century and you only afforded it a brief mention at the bottom of the fourth page. Why did you do that?” He was alluding to the full page feature we had on the visit of Ireland Rugby Captain Niamh Briggs to Ennis Rugby Club last week, where 40 new female teenage members of the club had an opportunity to meet a hero of the sport. Niamh Briggs is a sporting pioneer and a beacon for promoting women’s sport in general. “Why did you do that? It’s not something of interest to the community at large. There were over 5,000 people at the county final,
how can you justify giving rugby so much coverage.” He spoke at length about the dangers of rugby and suggested we write an article about that. Maybe one of the downfalls of having a strong online presence is that you don’t hit your full readership online. Tommy wouldn’t have seen that we had sent our photographer Julie Tillett to Cusack Park for the match, along with reporter Lauren Guilfoyle who conducted a pitch-side interview with Clooney Quin captain Fergal Lynch after the nail-biting draw. I do take Tommy’s comments on board though. There’s no getting away from the fact that hurling runs in the blood in Clare. I myself was at the drawn final and have to agree with Tommy, it did deserve more column inches and that’s reflected in this week’s coverage of the game. Having said that, you’ll be able to read for pages and pages in The Clare People and Clare Champion if you want in-depth sports coverage. What we offer here at The Clare Echo is an outlet for local clubs to spread the good word of what they’re doing. Show off their new facilities, tell people if they have a big day coming up. Ennis Rugby Club, with more than 400 members is certainly part of the make-up and heartbeat of Clare grassroots sports. So Tommy, if you’re reading this in spite of yourself, give me a call this morning and I’ll be waiting by the phone to see in what way you and I can help promote your local club. I look forward to it.
AVING elections and census data from the same year is manna from heaven for any psephologist (those who statistical study elections and trends in voting). 2016 was one such year in Ireland and the Central Statistics Office (CSO) figures make for fascinating reading. Political parties will dissect them to predict what trends can be garnered and what policies can best appeal to voters in any given constituency. What we know from the CSO figures is that in Clare, we have the 11th oldest electorate of all the constituencies. We also know that, of the 88,192 adults in the county, 83,660 are on the general electoral register. Of those, just 57,407 or 68.6 per cent exercised that right last year. The three major population centres in Clare; Ennis, Shannon and Kilrush, account for 28,027 adults in their urban areas. Yet, despite having over two quotas worth of voters, none of them produced a winning candidate. But what does all that actually mean? Clare is a predominately rural county. That’s no shocking fact to anyone. Some statistics the CSO did gleam that might be more surprising is that 51 per cent of Clare people are single and have never been married and 15.5per cent of us were not born in Ireland. By digging down into these stats as well as data on housing, occupation, people’s working commute and broadband provision, politicians can readily see what it is that people need locally. From a brief review of the figures it’s clear to see that infrastructure (housing and broadband), healthcare, education and employment are the major issues in Clare. The unemployment figures in the 2016 census told us that 12.4 per cent of the working population was without employment or full-time education. Three blackspots immediately jump off the page; Kilrush, Kilkee and part of Ennis. Fine Gael will be keen to push updated figures showing us that we’re on a path to recovery. However, that line did not sit well with voters last time out, many of whom haven’t seen any economic benefits yet. The party needs to connect more with people
ISSUE: Fine Gael seem in favour of centralising post offices. on the ground and to show causes in these brackets well. them how their immediate Where the big two differ is area has benefitted from the varying degrees of public almost seven years of their sector employment and the rule if they’re going to hold services that go with them. their second seat in Clare. At present, each party has Sinn Féin will be looking to slightly different ideas on how capitalise on these stats. Being best to roll out those services a largely urban party, playing with Fine Gael favouring a into the plight of those in the more centralised, cost saving worst affected areas fits their method. Fianna Fáil on the message. That alone won’t other hand aim to retain as be enough for them to make many services as possible a breakthrough. Ultimately, locally. There is a high cost asthey need to connect better sociated with that though. The with rural voters if they hope question then is; are the public to take a seat in Clare. willing to pay for it? It’s no Clare has a poor history of more obvious than in talking sending left wing TDs to the about the Post Office issue Dáil which not only further where FG currently seem dents SF’s chances but also to favour centralising these doesn’t bode well for a Labour services in large supermarkets return in the county. That in rural towns whereas FF are party appears, nationally, to fighting to keep the local postbe without a set direction and master in situ. Neither would to play mainly to marginal appear a logical plan without causes, mostly urban based. serious overhaul of either the They, like the Greens, see their rural transport network or brand being built in the cities services on offer at the local and large towns of Ireland. post office. Clare rejecting our urban These questions give rise based candidates in the last to independents like Dr. election means that the conMichael Harty who won a stituency seemingly doesn’t seat on the “No Doctor, No feature on such a party’s hit Village” ticket. Rural healthlist to target. In fact, of the care remains a huge issue 57,407 votes cast in 2016, only with people still complaining 8,535 (14.87 per cent) went of a lack of services. But will to candidates from any of the Clare voters give Dr. Harty three largest urban areas. It’s more time to make an impact clear from the figures that on this cause? Arguably two these parties will need their years isn’t a long time to bring candidate to be singularly imabout grand scale change to a pressive to capture the imagisector that has been mismannation of the Clare electorate aged badly over the years by to challenge for a seat. all parties. In the policy game, The battle at the next large parties have the largest election should be between arsenal, backed up with dedithe traditional big two parties cated teams in Leinster House, and independents once more to throw at the electorate to if current trends stay the convince them to forsake sinsame. This entails promotion gle issue candidates. To that of farming, health care access, end, it’s always a testament to road building, provision of Independents that manage to schools and enabling job get re-elected in the face of creation. All that can change such fire power. A week is a of course as we saw in the long time in politics though. near wipe out of Fianna Fáil The next election is far from a in 2011. It’s also allowed for foregone conclusion yet. The Independents to rise as they numbers game is only really champion one or two local beginning.
24 COMMUNITY
Community ENNIS CLARE HAVEN Clare Haven Services Insights Programme - A free and confidential weekly programme for women who are or have been in an abusive domestic relationship. For further information please contact Clare Haven Services on 065 6842646. IRISH LANGUAGE Ennis Irish language group Caint agus Comhrá which facilitates informal conversation in the language can now be found at three cafes in the town every weekend. On Fridays they meet in Peckish, Saturdays in Bia agus Caife, and on Mondays in Zest, all at 11:00AM. These meet-ups provide a great opportunity for people to get together and practice their Irish in a relaxed and social atmosphere, to meet other Irish speakers, and strike up new friendships. Speakers at all levels of knowledge of the language regardless of age, nationality etc. will find a welcome. Information from: caintaguscomhra@eircom.net COLAISTE REUNION Colaiste Muire 40th Class Reunion: (Calling the class of 1972 to 1977); Come join us to celebrate 40th years since leaving Colaiste Muire Saturday 25th November 2 – Mass; 17h30 - Colaiste Muire Oratory: buffet dinner, Old Ground Hotel;19h00 - €30pp. Contact - Marie Connolly 0866074538 Marie.Connolly@ul.ie CANCER SUPPORT Sláinte an Chláir, Clare Cancer Support Annual Fair, Saturday October 28; 10am, Maria Assumpta Hall. Great selection of crafts, fairy houses, Bake sale, knitted goods plus lots more. Your support is greatly appreciated. DOORA TRACTOR RUN Following on from the success of the past two years, the third annual ‘Doora Charity Tractor Run’ takes place on Sunday October 29th. The Tractor Run will commence and finish at the Shibeen carpark,
THE CLARE ECHO
THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017
CONTACT NEWSDESK
065 671 9021 news@clareecho.ie
Doora. The organisers are delighted to announce that this year’s tractor run will follow a new route via Spancilhill with a stop at Duggan’s Bar, where refreshments will be provided before the return to Doora. Plenty of entertainment will be provided for all ages with a ‘Kid’s Tractor Race’ taking place, along with a bouncy castle on the day. Over the past two years local business have been hugely supportive providing prizes for the monster raffle and cash donations. An excess of €12,000 has been raised in the last two years for Milford Hospice, The Jack and Jill Foundation and Clarecastle Daycare Centre. This year’s event will raise funds for Pieta House and local charity Clarecastle Daycare Centre. Please come out and support this event which promises to be a great day out!
WEST/NORTH CLARE CREATIVE WRITING Creative Writing Class: Do you have a story to tell? Or memories from long ago that you want to keep? Why not come and join our creative writing class and put pen to paper! CABES in the Kilrush adult education centre are planning a creative writing class for beginners on Wed evenings 7 – 9pm starting in Nov. Tel: Kala Maloney on 065 9052131 SHOEBOX APPEAL The Christmas Shoebox Appeal: Download a leaflet at www.teamhope.ie. Leave your filled shoebox at the Olde Creamery Cooraclare Rd.—final date is Nov 10. Tel; Deirdre 087 9011683
Clooney Quin fans enjoying their day out on Sunday despite the SHC county final result.
HISTORICAL SOCIETY Kilrush District Historical Society presents ‘ The Wreck of the Leon XIII in 1907” by Mick Carrick on Tuesday October 31 at 8pm in the Teach Ceoil. Lectures are free for members, non members €5. Down Memory Lane 2018 calendar is now available in Anchor Crafts, Pen 2 Paper, Gleesons, The Leisure Centre and O’Sullivan’s. At only €10 it makes a lovely Christmas present. LOOPHEAD GARDENING Loophead Peninsula Gardening Project will be holding two fundraising events. A Table Quiz will take place in Foley’s Bar, Cross at 9 pm on Friday 10th Nov. A Car Boot, Craft and Bake Sale will take place in St. Mary’s Hall, Carrigaholt on Sunday 12th November from 11 am to 4 pm. Those who wish to sell items can contact Marcella on 086 1951863 to book a table.
POKER CLASSIC Poker Classic in aid of West Clare Cancer Centre on Sunday November 5 2017 at Westbridge Bar, Miltown Malbay at 7pm, €1,500 Pro Rata, Tickets €25. Please support this worthy cause. Tel: Matt on 086 6049444. SHOEBOX APPEAL The Christmas Shoebox Appeal. Download a leaflet at www.teamhope.ie. Leave your filled shoebox at the Olde Creamery Cooraclare Rd.—final date is Nov 10th. Tel; Deirdre 087 9011683. RADIO BROADCAST RCB Radio will be broadcasting a Community Mass on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 2.05 pm. On Sundays, the award winning show, the Word, is on at 2.05 pm with an hour of relaxing discussions on spirituality and some great music thrown in too. This is followed by Reflections, at 3pm, a
30 minute space for Christian prayer, song and devotion presented by the Kilkee prayer group. The station can found on 92.5 or 94.8 FM in the South West Clare Region or you can listen live on www. rcb.ie. KILMALEY WALK Meitheal Kilmaley: This year’s Meitheal walk will be from Kilmaley Graveyard to Lough Burke and back to Carney’s Bar in Connolly on November 5 at 1pm. The day will commence with open air Mass concelebrated by Bishop Fintan, Canon McLaughlin and Fr Pat to commemorate all those who have gone before us. The graves will be blessed at the end of Mass, followed by a parish picnic and the walk. This is a community Mass celebrating our blessings in life and showing our appreciation to those who have
Photo by Julie Tillett
left us. There will be no 11.30am mass in Kilmaley on that day. It is Meitheal’s annual fundraising event and letters will be sent to every house in the parish asking for your generous support. Community notes TRAD BREAKFAST Everyone is welcome to attend the Trad Breakfast as part of Willie Keane Memorial Weekend in Doonbeg at Tubridy’s Restaurant, on Sunday October 29 from 10am to 12 noon. The event is in aid of Doonbeg a Football Club. A live trad session will be underway while people enjoy a delicious Full Irish Breakfast for 8 euro person.
THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017 THE CLARE ECHO
Community
COMMUNITY 25 CONTACT NEWSDESK
065 671 9021 news@clareecho.ie
CHEERS TO THAT: Canadian Film Producers, Gordon Blaine played by Joe Dillon and Francine Majors played by Fiona Cahill meet alcoholic deadbeat, and well past his prime money making days,Film Director Bobby Holland, played by Alan Sparling Credit Eoin O’Hagan
EAST/SOUTHEAST CLARE CARRIGORAN Parkinson’s Meeting. The local Clare group will meet on Friday, October 27 at Carrigoran Health and Wellness Centre, Newmarket on Fergus. YOUTH CLUB Bodyke Ogonnelloe Tuamgraney (B.O.T.) Youth Club: for all secondary school students in the parishes on Friday nights in Scariff Community College Sports Hall at 8.30– 10pm. Membership €10 and €2 each night of youth club. New members always welcome. 45 Card nights: will resume in the Parish House Tuamgraney on Wednesday nights at 8pm, beginning on Wednesday September 27th. All very welcome, including beginners. TULLA CAMOGIE (RIGHT) It has been a super weekend for Gaelic games in Tulla with three teams booking their places in county finals. First up were the minor hurlers who braved the elements in Clonlara Saturday evening to record a 1-12 to 0-8 win over Cratloe. Tulla was the venue Sunday morning where the U15 hurlers (bottom left) defeated Newmarket by 3-11 to 1-09. It was a much tougher affair in Dr Daly Park later on Sunday where the U13 Camogs (far right) had to dig deep to earn a 2 point win over Corofin. The game ended 2-08 to 3-03 in favour of the home side. Right are pictures of the minor hurlers and U13 camogie squad.
The Ogonnelloe U13 camogie team after their the cup and (below) the Tulla sides
26 BUSINESS
THE CLARE ECHO
BUSINESS
THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017
CONTACT US WE’RE ON FACEBOOK, TWITTER AND INSTAGRAM #CE CAPTION: This is a caption.
Ruth Wanesborough from EIQA pictured with Paul Ryan and Kay Ryan, Ryan’s Centra, Ennis at the National Q Mark Awards. Known as The Oscars of Business Excellence, The Q Mark Award is the highest accolade an Irish business can achieve, given both the intense competition and the exacting standards required. Photo by Conor McCabe Photography
Three Clare businesses hit the Q-Mark
Clare LEO invites entrepreneurs to East Clare
T
HREE Clare businesses put their best foot forward at the prestigious Q Mark awards in recent weeks as they were nominated for various
gongs. Chemhaz Solutions Ltd in Feakle Co Clare was nominated for a Q Mark for their Quality Management System (QMS). This nomination means they are in the top 6.75 per cent of all audits completed by the EIQA on the island of Ireland. “It is both a pleasant surprise and a source of encouragement and reassurance that a really small company is nominated,” said JJ Tobin MD. “I believe we are unique in applying the Q-mark standard to what is truly a micro business. We are demonstrating that the standard is sufficiently flexible to be able to be effectively applied to
any size of business, rather than having to adapt the business to fit the standard.” Ryan’s Centra Ennis, meanwhile, has been nominated for Hygiene and Food Safety at The National Q Mark Awards 2017. “The Fresh Food team at Ryan’s Centra are thrilled to be nominated again for this prestigious award, quality, training and consistency are the key to our continued success” said Laura Vasiliauskiene – Fresh Food Supervisor. Gerry Donnellan added,“Our Food Management System is tailored to our store. It has been adapted and upgraded to meet our demands. It is understood, managed and delivered professionally. We are passionate about what we do”. Meanwhile, Bluebird Care in Clare
has been nominated for a prestigious Q Mark Award for their Quality Management System (QMS) at The National Q Mark Awards 2017. The team at Bluebird Care were delighted to be nominated because they believe the value of a carer can sometimes go unrecognised. Although very rewarding, the caring role can be physically, mentally and emotionally exhausting depending on the workload. The care staff consider their role as a vocation, hence their dedication, passion and commitment. “I like to make a difference in people’s life, not a huge difference but a little difference and every day that is what I set out to do,” said Robbie Ball – Health Care Assistant, when asked why he chose to be a carer. Over 500 people representing 135 companies attended the glitzy, blacktie ceremony at the Clayton Hotel.
Soreid McEntee from EIQA pictured with Kay Leahy from Bluebird Care in Co Clare at the National Q Mark Awards. Photo by Conor McCabe
BUSINESS 27
THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017 THE CLARE ECHO
RECRUITMENT
DULICK MOTORS GORT RD, ENNIS Main Nissan Dealer For County Clare
Have a Full Time Vacancy for Receptionist/Office Administrator Experience In The Motor Industry An Advantage Applications to: info@dulick-nissan.com
O’Brien’s Gala are seeking to fill 2 positions •Experienced Deli Staff Required •Experienced Sales Assistant
WELL DESERVED: JJ Tobin from ChemHaz Solutions pictured with Ruth Wanesborough at the National Q Mark Awards. Photo by Conor McCabe Photography
Please send your CV to obrienskilmaley@eircom.net or drop your CV into any O’Brien’s Gala Stores
Full steam ahead for drive-thru Starbuck’s café STUART HOLLY
news@clareecho.ie
Tom Collins, Moloney’s Contractors with Grainne McInerney, Gerry Dillon, and Ray O’Driscoll, all of Shannon Commercial Properties Photo by Arthur Ellis
SHANNON is to taste another national ‘first’ but this time with coffee, as work has just commenced on the first coffee drive-thru in Republic of Ireland by global giant Starbucks Coffee Company. The US based giant, which operates over 20,000 outlets globally, is to lease a 204sq metre unit at Shannon Free Zone, Co. Clare, being developed by Shannon Commercial Properties, a Shannon Group plc company. The development will lead to the creation of 15 new jobs at the new coffee outlet. The Shannon Free Zone Starbucks will comprise of coffee dock/ meeting hub with internal and external seating, car and cycle parking, drive-thru coffee ordering and collection that will service the 600 acre multi-sectoral business park situated next to Shannon Airport and the 7,500 employees in 150 companies based there. It will provide them with a space to collaborate and network and create long lasting business relationships . “Shannon has had many firsts over the years, starting with the Shannon Free Zone as the world’s first free trade zone. Now, in the Shannon Free Zone we will have the first Starbucks drive-thru to be developed in the Republic of Ireland.” Said Ray O’Driscoll, Managing Director of Shannon Commercial Properties. “This will be much more than a place to get a really good cup of coffee. It will be a meeting hub for companies and their clients as well as the 7,500 staff working in the business park. The addition of this type of amenity and the associated world famous Starbucks brand is a real plus for the Shannon Free Zone. It will have a positive impact on the business park and its attractiveness to FDI companies as a place to do business,” he said. The contract for the construction was won by Moloney Contractors from Tralee. Work has just commended at the site and will be complete by next March, creating up to 40 jobs during construction.
Caroline Bourke MAKE-UP AND STYLE
28 COLUMNIST
THE CLARE ECHO THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017
IS YOUR MAKE-UP PAST ITS USE-BY DATE? Here are some guidelines I swear by
S
O, how can you tell if cosmetics have gone off? In a nutshell, rely on your eyes, nose and common sense: if you perceive changes bin the product. The only exception is eye make-up remover containing camomile, which can go from bright blue to dingy grey in a matter of weeks. This is a natural breakdown and not harmful; it can be avoided simply by keeping the product in the bathroom cabinet. Generally, though, how long should things last? Here’s our low-down………
MASCARA
Buy a new one at least every six months - and before that, if it goes lumpy or changes texture. Remember, don’t ever lend your mascara to anyone - it’s a quick way to spread an infection.
EYE MAKE-UP
Powder shadows, cream shadows and pencils should last for 18 months, but if you do suffer an eye infection at any point,
get rid of what you were using at that time in order to avoid reinfection. Liquid eyeliners should not be replaced as often as mascara - and again, neither a borrower nor a lender be.
FOUNDATIONS
These are designed to last for between one and two years, but if they’re exposed to light and changes of temperature, the oils can start to go rancid and separate before that.
BLUSHERS
Powder blushes are good almost for 18 months- bugs can’t breed in the dry formula- but cream blushers should be replaced every year, at a minimum.
EYE CREAM
This can last up to six months, but once again, use your nose; if it seems to smell different, ditch it. Don’t leave it where the sun can get to it.
MOISTURISER
Unopened, this can last two or three years, but up to six months if you’re using it. Bin it if the smell or consistency changes. Can be kept at room temperature, or in the fridge. Likewise cleansers and toners, which should never be diluted.
TOP TEN TIPS TO GET LONGER FROM COSMETICS 1 4 7 8 2 5 9 l SECRET: I store my cosmetics in the fridge, away from light and heat.
Keep cosmetics and skincare away from light and heat. I store mine in the fridge. Use the spatulas and nozzle caps which come with products; they’re designed to stop you contaminating the ingredients with less than spotless fingers. Q-tips are useful too.
3
Clean spatulas often with hot water, then dry them on cotton wool - a grubby spatula’s no better than a finger. Look for pump-action products they stop air/germs getting in. Never water down cosmetics, as you change the precise balance of preservatives added to keep a product safe.
6
Keep widemouthed jars firmly screwed. Always wash and dry your hands before applying skincare or make-up. Every two weeks, wash the bristles of your make-up brushes with brush cleaner. You can purchase brush cleaner in Penney’s, Estee Lauder or Clinique. When cleaning please
spray two pumps of cleaner with a pump of water on to tissue. This is the correct way of cleaning. I do know some of you ladies who like to wash with baby shampoo or under the tap. You are heading for disaster there. Make-up Brushes won't last long.Try my method and see how you get on. It's important to change your
10
make-up bag every few months. A good tip is to keep brushes in a brush holder and make-up separate. So going forward do not put make-up and brushes into the one make-up bag. Take a trip into Penney’s ladies and pick up a brush holder and a new makeup bag. Caroline Xx
THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017
THE CLARE ECHO
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Motoring MOTORING EXPERT NEIL BRISCOE GIVES HIS VIEWS
VW’s carry-all does it all ROAD TEST: VOLKSWAGEN GOLF 1.6 TDI ESTATE
Golf estate is one of the best family cars you can buy FACTS & FIGURES:
M
OST of us would no sooner buy an estate car than we could hang a sign around our necks that said ‘ I am a commercial traveller and may, at any point and without warning, try to sell you household products.’ Apologies to any and all commercial travellers — my mum to this day runs her own shop and I know you to be truly the salt of the Earth — but for most people, the humble, useful estate car has for too long been inexorably attached to the world of wholesale cleaning products and freestanding display units. In the same sense that buying a tallroofed MPV displays that you have given up on the fun things in life, so buying an estate has sent others, whether intended or not, the signal that you spend your working week pounding the nation’s roads, and your evenings looking at the meal deals for one option in provincial restaurants. No wonder everyone buys an SUV. Well, I think it’s high time for that to stop, and I mean both the unfair denigration of the hard-working sales community, and the fact that we all think
TO THE FORE: Volkswagen Golf 1.6 TDI Estate does everything well.
Model tested: Volkswagen Golf Estate 1.6 TDI Highline Pricing: starts at €22,280; as tested €33,408 Engine: 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel Transmission: five-speed manual, front-wheel drive
Body style: five-seat estate CO2 emissions: 109g/km (Band A3, €190 per annum) Combined economy: 68.8mpg (4.1 litres/100km) Top speed: 200km/h 0-100km/h: 10.7 seconds
estates are a bit dreary. Estates are actually the best cars you can buy, and that is no mere hyperbole. Just look at the UK and Europe, where estates easily sell as many as, sometimes more than, their hatchback and saloon counterparts. If you’re a family buyer, and don’t need the extra seats (and social death) of an MPV, then a mid-size estate is the car for you. Why? Because these are cars that do everything really, really well and this Volkswagen Golf 1.6 TDI estate is a perfect example of the breed. The Golf hardly, surely, needs any introduction? Since the 1974 original, designed by the genius that is Giorgetto Giugiaro, arrived it has been one of the top selling cars not just of its breed, not just of a given year, but of all time. More than 33-million Golfs have been sold to date, and that’s a number that far outstrips the once record-holding efforts of its elder, the Beetle. It is not at all hard to see why. This, the seventh generation of Golf, has been subtly updated for 2017 (and is now generally being referred to as the Mk7.5 by the sort of people who wear anoraks with VW logos on them). It now comes with gorgeous LED headlights and rear lights (the front ones are an option), a new 1.0-litre TSI
petrol engine (more on that in a tic) and an updated interior that hasn’t changed an awful lot in looks, but which is slightly improved in terms of its quality and which has had a big upgrade in terms of its tech. That now includes a new eight-inch touch-screen for mid-spec models (you can have an even-larger nine-inch screen or a more modest 6.5-inch version), Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for connecting you phone, ‘gesture control’ that allows you adjust the volume, track, or radio station with a wave of your hand (bit fiddly, that) and a phalanx of new safety features which include City Emergency Braking with new pedestrian monitoring (Front Assist); a new Traffic Jam Assist that offers semi-automated driving at speeds of up to 60 km/h; and Emergency Assist which is also new to this segment. Emergency Assist notices if the driver is incapacitated and initiates various measures to rouse them in escalating stages culminating, if the driver remains inactive, in carrying out an emergency stop. All very impressive. And this estate is the best model of Golf that you can buy. Yup, even over and above the mighty GTI and R versions with their powerful engines. Our test car was a 1.6 TDI
diesel in Highline spec with a few options fitted, which clocked in at a fairly chunky €33,408. Not cheap, but then this is a car which can put similarly-priced crossovers and SUVs to shame, and not least because it has a 605-litre boot. That’s the kind of boot that even families with babies can use without worry that everything’s going to fit, nor a degree in Tetris. You just open the hatch, fire everything in, and off you go. And you’ll enjoy the going. Unlike most of its SUV rivals, the Golf estate retains the sharp steering and composed chassis for which the badge has become rightly famous in recent years. It’s not heart-stoppingly exciting to drive, but it is very, very satisfying and rewarding. And actually, it’s even better if you dodge the diesel (yes, I said it) and go for the 1.0 TSI turbo petrol. The little three-cylinder engine sings a happy song, compared to the diesel’s gruff growl, and it has plenty enough poke for almost all needs, as well as genuinely diesel-like economy and emissions. Whichever version you go for, I think that this updated Golf estate is, genuinely the best family car you can buy right now. Classy, engaging, of high quality, and big on practicality. Now, can I interest you in some wholesale hoover bags?
THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017
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Western Garages, Volkswagen Clare, Quin Road, Ennis, Co Clare. T: 065 6828505 www.westerngarages.com (Polo, Tiguan, Arteon) Fuel Consumption l/100km : combined 6.4 – 3.8. CO2 emissions g/km: 167-97. Increased weight of a vehicle, including higher trim levels and the addition of options may have an effect on the fuel consumption and CO2 emissions produced. The CO2 and fuel consumption figures are the official figures obtained from tests under standardised EU test conditions. *The EcoGrant amount on offer varies per model. The EcoGrant is available to retail customers with orders submitted from 8th September 2017 until 31st December 2017. This offer cannot be used in conjunction with other existing 181 offers. Registration of qualifying cars can be in 2017 or up to 30th June 2018. The EcoGrant is available for owners of all makes of cars and not restricted to Volkswagen owners. Vehicles being scrapped must have been registered in the name of the purchaser of the new car for at least 6 months prior to the date of registration of the new car. Qualifying trade in cars must be scrapped within 60 days (before or after new vehicle registration date) at an approved end of life authorised vehicle treatment facility (ELV). This offer is subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time. This offer does not apply to fleet sales. For more information visit www.volkswagen.ie. Offers mentioned apply to 181 retail orders before December 31st. Models shown are for illustrative purposes only. Information correct at time of print. See www.volkswagen.ie for details.
32 MOTORING
THE CLARE ECHO THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017
Motoring News
Toyota launches ‘Upgrade to Hybrid for Free’ deals 181 offers include €2,000 worth of extras for free on an Auris
T
OYOTA has kicked off the 181 sales drive in the run up to Showtime, the national sales event which takes places from Wednesday November 8 until Saturday November 11 by launching the ‘Upgrade to Hybrid for Free’ campaign which makes it even easier for Irish consumers to switch from diesel to hybrid. 2017 saw the first significant drop in consumer demand for diesel, with market share dropping from 72 per cent of sales in 2016 to 65 per cent this year. It is predicted that diesel will only account for 55 per cent of new car sales in Ireland in 2018 and will drop much further by 2020. This year, hybrid has accounted for 30 per cent of total Toyota sales and is estimated to rise to 45 per cent in 2018. The future residual value of a hybrid vehicle will be up to six per cent higher than a diesel vehicle, as indicated by Toyota Financial Services (Toyota Ireland’s new financial provider) and through research, it is clear that the future resale value of a vehicle is of major concern to Irish customers,
making hybrid the smart choice for 181. With higher resale values, low APR’s from 2.9 per cent and trade in, trade up bonus of up to €4,500 plus scrappage on diesel vehicles, Toyota has offers to suit all driver requirements. In addition, increased levels of free specification on hybrid models as well as price reductions, mean it’s never been easier for Irish drivers to make the move to hybrid. Highlights across the Toyota range of seven hybrids include the RAV4 with €2,000 price reduction on RAV4 hybrid Luna Sport; €2,200 of free specification on Auris Luna Sport hybrid including satellite navigation with connected services, 17” alloys wheels and sports interior trim; and 2.9 per cent APR on all Yaris hybrids. Where a hybrid option is not available on a model, customers can avail of other special offers. Corolla customers can switch from diesel to the Luna Sport petrol and receive €1,400 worth of free spec including satellite navigation, heated seats, retractable mirrors and 17-inch alloy wheels. On Aygo, customers can avail of
HYBRID: Bargain for 181.
APR rates from just 2.9 per cent with Toyota Safety Sense and rearview camera. Michael Gaynor, Marketing Director at Toyota commented: “As Irish motorists begin to question the future resale value of diesel vehicles, we see a tipping point
where customers will accelerate a move either into hybrid or back to petrol for 181. Toyota is in a strong position with the widest range of hybrid models available on the market, in addition to a great range of petrol engines. To truly live our brand promise
of Built for a Better World, we want to lead the market into more environmentally friendly vehicles that have significantly less nitric oxide emission than diesel, hence why Toyota was the first brand to introduce a diesel scrappage scheme exclusively to hybrid.”
KIA LAUNCHES NEW STONIC FOR €18,599 THE Kia Stonic will land in Irish showrooms from October 27th, the SUV inspired Kia Stonic is an important conquest model for Kia in a fast growing B-SUV segment. There will be four trim levels with a choice of three petrol engines and one diesel engine in Irish showrooms. Prices will range from €18,599 for Stonic K1 1.2 petrol model to the top of the range Stonic K4 model powered by the 1.0T-DGi turbo petrol at €24,599. The K1 entry level spec includes the following equipment as standard: ISG, skid plate (front and rear), audio remote, Bluetooth, 3.5-inch trip computer screen, seven-inch infotainment screen, 15- inch alloys, leather gear knob and handle, front armrest, spare wheel, privacy glass, rear
USB, speed limiter, cruise control, centre console and rear USB and charger. The Stonic K2 trim with a choice of 1.4 petrol or 1.6 diesel engines adds the following spec enhancements; 17 inch alloys, roof rails, auto light control, LED daytime running lights, bi function protection lamps, electrically heated and folding wing mirrors, 3.5-inch super vision cluster screen, manual air conditioning on top of the standard equipment. The Stonic K3 model with the same engine choice also includes ADAS, LED rear lights, chrome belt line, two tone leather, heated front seats, seven-inch screen with sat-nav, DAB radio, rear view camera and ECM interior mirror. The top of the range K4 model with its
120hp turbo gasoline engine comes fitted with Smart Key, metal pedals, blind spot detector, dual auto air con with rain sensor. All K3 and K4 models come with the option of two tone roof and interior trim personalisation. “The Stonic will be an important conquest model for Kia in one of the newest and fastest-growing vehicle segments. In Ireland, the B-SUV segment is expected to grow by 100 per cent in the next two years as demand for traditional B and C segment cars declines. We expect Stonic to become an extremely important part of our product mix here in Ireland and become as just as successful as our flagship Sportage and cee’d models.” Commented James Brooks, Managing Director of Kia Motors Ireland.
ON ITS WAY: Kia Stonic. “Kia has listened to customers all over Europe and our engineering and design teams have responded in creating the Kia Stonic, we believe the Stonic will be a stand out rival to other competitor models in the B-SUV segment.” added Mr. Brooks.
THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017
THE CLARE ECHO
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Bright and spacious 31 CREGAUN, ENNIS, CLARE â‚Ź179,950
L
OCATED in the Cregaun Housing Development in the popular residential area of Tobertaoscain, within short walking distance of Ennis Town Centre and all surrounding amenities. Number 31 is a bright and well proportioned 4 bedroom semi-detached home that has been meticulously maintained by its current owners. On entering the property the spacious hallway with feature U-shaped staircase gives access to the ground floor bedroom, main reception and kitchen/dining. The main living room, with its cast iron surround feature fireplace and solid fuel stove, Cherrywood style timber flooring is open plan (via archway) to the open plan kitchen/ dining which features a modern fitted kitchen with integrated appliances and sliding patio door in formal dining onto the vast patio and rear garden. Off the kitchen is the utility which also has rear access, interconnecting doors to the multi purpose ground floor playroom and office. At first floor level are three additional bedrooms all of which feature built-in wardrobes (one en-suite) and main bathroom. Ample storage is provided for with two attics to the main house and a garden shed to the rear. This is an ideal first time buyer/family home in the heart of Ennis Town Centre and viewing is highly recommended and strictly by prior appointment with Sole Selling Agents. PSL No. 002295 Contact Cormac O’Sullivan, DNG. Tel: 065 - 6840200 Partner Director
l CONVENIENT: The Cregaun development is close to Ennis town centre.
PROPERTY 37
THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017 THE CLARE ECHO
BEAUTY IN THE BURREN
l ATTRACTIVE: This four-bed residence has stunning views.
T
€250,000
NEWTOWN, BALLYVAUGHAN, CO CLARE HIS is an attractive four bedroom home with stunning views of the Burren. The property is about 1.6km from Ballyvaughan on the N67 Lisdoonvarna Road on a 0.2 hectare (0.5 acre) approx. site. Ballyvaughan is a gorgeous seaside village with a gentle and relaxed ambiance. There are numerous pubs, cafes, shops and restaurants. It is situated on the southern shore of Galway Bay with excellent access to the Burren, the Cliffs of Moher, Fanore Beach, The Aran Islands, Doolin, Lisdoonvarna, Lahinch, Kinvara and only an hour from Galway city (which can be seen across the bay). The property is an attractive dormer bungalow with a precast concrete first floor. The ground floor consists of a living room, kitchen dining room, utility room
NEW IN LARCHILL BALLYMAQUIGGAN, LARCHILL, ENNIS, CO CLARE
Contact: Diarmuid McMahon, Sherry FitzGerald McMahon, O’Connell Square House, Ennis. Tel: 065 6867866
Contact: Diarmuid McMahon, Sherry FitzGerald McMahon, O’Connell Square House, Ennis. Tel: 065 6867866
IDEAL FOR A FIRST TIME BUYER
€455,000
A UNIQUE opportunity to purchase a new build own access contemporary turn key home in an excellent residential location on a 0.36 hectare (0.89 acre) site. This stunning A3 energy rated home is just 4.5km from Ennis town centre. It is in a beautiful countryside location not far from Drumcliff, Fountain and Toonagh National School. This is an excellent opportunity to purchase a top quality new home from DRM Construction who are building outstanding family homes in Clare. BER A3, BER No. 109853390. 279sqm (3,000 sq ft) approx.
and a double bedroom with an ensuite bathroom (complete with a full bath). The first floor is made up of three double bedrooms all of which are ensuite. There is zoned oil fired central heating system which is centrally controlled to easily control hot water and heating. There is beautiful stone patio to the rear of the dining area with views over the generous back lawn and the Burren Hills. This is an excellent opportunity to purchase a home in the heart of the Burren just a short distance from Gregans Castle Hotel, The Ailwee caves and the Burren Art College. BER D1. BER No. 101167922. 136.9sqm (1,474 sq. ft).
11 FOREST GLEN, TULLA ROAD, ENNIS, CO CLARE
ASKING PRICE €159,000
OPEN VIEWINGS: Thursday October 26th: 5:00pm to 5.30pm. Saturday November 4th: 10:00am to 10.30am.
NUMBER 11 Forest Glen is a bright and spacious 3 bedroom semi-detached home located in this popular cul de sac development. It is within walking distance of Ennis Town Centre a two minute drive to the M18 motorway. Accommodation on the ground floor comprises an entrance hall, living room and an open-plan kitchen/ dining area. On the first
floor there are two double bedrooms (one of which has an en-suite), a single bedroom and a bathroom. Viewing of this fine home is highly recommended. 92 sq.m (989.92sq.ft) BER C3, No. 105844088.
Contact: Tiernan O’Malley, Sherry FitzGerald McMahon, O’Connell Square House, Ennis. Tel: 065 6867866
WE’RE YOUR LOCALS IN CLARE SHERRY FITZGERALD MCMAHON
O’CONNELL SQUARE HOUSE, ENNIS, CO. CLARE
T: 065 686 7866 SHERRYFITZ.IE
/SHERRYFITZGERALDGROUP @SHERRY_FITZ
Email: ennis@sherryfitzmcmahon.ie
PSRA No. 0O1212
THE CLARE ECHO
THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017
Your Horoscopes October 26 Aries
Taurus
Gemini
Cancer
Leo
Virgo
IT’S time to assert yourself -- which should be no problem at all for you. It’s your specialty! You may even be better at it than usual for quite some time to come -- but in order to pull it off, you need to believe in yourself as much as others believe in you. Their confidence in you, manifested through that intense heart-to-heart, should get you moving in the right direction.
YOU’VE definitely got your work cut out for you today -- it feels like every area of your life is demanding more and more of your time. Until robot servants are perfected, your only option is to keep all your balls in the air at once. Fortunately, you’re quite determined to meet this challenge head-on -- but a tiny break in the action is just what you need. Balance work with play.
YOU’RE in the mood to chat, in a big way. You’re feeling so chatty, in fact, that you’re not especially concerned with who you’re with. That can make for some amazingly entertaining banter with strangers, some of whom may end up becoming fast friends. You might also inadvertently let the wrong cat out of the bag, though. If it’s not supposed to be common knowledge, keep quiet.
YOU’RE just about due to put yourself on a budget -- a serious one. This doesn’t mean you’re done having any fun or that you’re unable to acquire something that you really want, but you do have to save your pennies for anything extra, and you do have to start right now. This is the perfect time for you to sit down and think about what’s really important to you -- and most valuable.
YOU’RE put in a position of authority isn’t exactly unwelcome for you. In fact, you’re used to it -- you can take one quick glance at a situation and know exactly what needs to be done, who needs to be put in charge of which department, and who shouldn’t be allowed near the others. Right now, you’re approached by someone who needs your leadership qualities.
SOMEONE close has been thinking about you for some time now, and you can’t deny that you’ve been thinking about them, too. If something has been up in the air between you, now is exactly the right time for you both to open up and say exactly what’s on your mind. Why not plan a relaxing, private evening alone with them? The right diversions and the right atmosphere can work wonders.
Libra
Scorpio
Sagittarius
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15 He's no gentleman, perhaps, unrobed (7)
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CROSSWORD ANSWERS S
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opera composer (5) York (5) 22 An Enid Blyton char- 23 Regretted sounding acter would coarse (4) appear strange in New
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26 It may be deadlier off the 1 Diamonds seen by tracks (8) river in 27 Stains on top of partial darkness (4) dress? That’s 3 Colliery boss in a Som- right! (4) erset town (8) DOWN 9 Starved in order to get publicity 1 Recoil from disadvan(7) tage (8) 10 Jeremy the actor 2 Pole always cut off performs (5) pressing work (5) 4 One nurse forced to 11 Poets start drinking seek cover in pubs (5) (6) 12 Curt is moving from 5 Torn veils are bad the things (5) country (6) 6 Feeling poorly, omit 14 Copper prohibits one (7) islanders (6) 7 Run - (4) 16 Flag seen when 8 Quietly Ron is taken queen is off to jail captured by bishop and (6) rook (6) 13 Journalists accept19 Shake a container for ing ten varied arrows gifts (8) (6) 15 He’s no gentleman, 21 Clothing provided perhaps, initially by unrobed (7) social workers (5) 17 A soft-fruit show (6) 24 Foreign articles below 18 Scoundrel going (5) after black 25 Please do arithmetic shoe (6) in valley (7) 20 Opera-lover did hold ACROSS
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The Clare Echo Crossword
YOU’RE all set to make a real name for yourself right away. If you can apply yourself 100% to the task currently at hand, and keep on applying yourself for the foreseeable future, all will be well. You know you can do it, and you know who to rely on for assistance, so there’s not much to worry about. Just make sure that once you make it, you don’t forget about those who’ve loved and supported you through all of this.
E
REMEMBER that there’s nothing wrong with asking for help, especially when you need it because your big plan turns out so well that you can’t handle all the consequences alone anymore. You can make all your dreams come true in short order, as long as you’re willing to call in reinforcements. Once you’re confident that you’re on the right track, start recruiting right away.
THERE’S nothing you love more than education -however it is that you choose to define it. You see the world as a huge classroom and everyone you meet as a potential teacher or student. At the moment, you’re craving something resembling an actual classroom with a real, live teacher. Even the prospect of homework doesn’t sound too bad to you! It’s time to sign up for some classes.
D
YOU’VE never been shallow in any way, and you never promise anything you’re not prepared to deliver. Of course, that sets you apart from most of the world’s population, so if you’re forced to make plans with someone who strikes you as somewhat less than reliable, have a Plan B or two ready to go, just in case. You never know -- it might turn out to be a lot better than Plan A could possibly have been.
YOUR career is and always has been important to you, and starting today, it’s going to be even more important for some time to come. If you cross paths with someone who seems genuinely interested in what you’re doing now, and if they offer to help you make your way, go for it. Making the right connections is vital to everyone’s professional life, and this could well be a major step on your road to success.
26
YOU’RE a trusting soul, and that’s a lovely quality under most circumstances. It can win you long-lasting friendships and get you through even the toughest of times in a relationship -- but it can also mean being taken advantage of. If you keep an eye on what’s important to you now, you don’t really have to worry about losing anything that matters. Just don’t overreact -- a little jealousy every now and then is unavoidable.
15 He's no gentleman, perhaps, unrobed (7) 17 A soft-fruit show (6) 18 Scoundrel going after black shoe (6) 20 Opera-lover did hold opera composer (5) 22 An Enid Blyton character would appear strange in New York (5) 23 Regretted sounding coarse (4)
t - just deal
38 CROSSWORD/HOROSCOPES
QUIZ 39
THURSDAY, OCT 26 2017 THE CLARE ECHO
The Clare Echo Quiz Ellen Manley, Ellen Hanley, Eileen Stanley.
2
IN WHAT YEAR WAS ENNIS COURTHOUSE BUILT?
1850, 1920, 1880
3
WHO ORDERED THE CHURCH OF THE LITTLE ARK IN KILBAHA TO BE BUILT? Fr Fintan McMahon, Fr Michael Meehan, Fr Andrew Murrihy
CAME TO VISIT LOUGH 4WHO DERG IN 2000? President Mary McAleese, Taoiseach Bertie Ahern, Prince Charles WHAT YEAR WAS THE TULLA 5INCEILI BAND ESTABLISHED?
IN WHAT YEAR DID THE SPAN6 ISH ARMADA SHIPWRECK OF THE WEST CLARE COAST? 1530, 1691, 1588
FAMILY BUILT QUIN AB7WHAT BEY IN THE 15TH CENTURY? McNamara, O’Brien, Connolly KING HENRY IS ASSOCI8WHICH ATED WITH BUNRATTY CASTLE?
l BEAUTIFUL: The West Clare Coast.
Photo: Julie Tillett
King Henry VIII, King Henry III, King Henry (OG) WHAT YEAR WAS MICHAEL 9 CONSIDINE, WRITER OF SPANCILL HILL, BORN? 1800, 1900, 1850 SAINT IS ASSOCIATED 10WHAT WITH SCATTERY ISLAND? St Michael, St Senan, St Brigid
ANSWERS 6. 1588 7. McNamara 8. King Henry III 9. 1850 10. St Senan
19TH CENTURY?
1945, 1899, 1932
1. Ellen Hanley 2. 1850 3. Fr Michael Meehan 4. President Mary McAleese 5. 1945
WHO WAS THE COLLEEN BAWN 1ASHORE (CAILÍN BÁN) WHO WASHED AT MONEYPOINT IN THE
HOLY ISLAND
l FLYING HIGH: Local photographer Eoin O’Hagan captured this magical sunrise over Holy Island on Lough Derg with the use of his drone camera.
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