The Clare Echo 01/08/19

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1 Aug 2019

BORISOII

WELCOME TO CLARE NINE PAGE FEATURE

UK PM’s ancestors came from Bunratty

FULL STORY PAGE 4

2 NEWS

THURSDAY, AUG 1 2019

Index NEWS

2-11

RONAN SCULLY

12

ENTERTAINMENT

14-15

KILRUSH FEATURE

17-25

COMMUNITY

26

PROPERTY

30-33

SPORT

34-35

CLASSIFIEDS

36-37

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

NEWSDESK

Email: editor@clareecho.ie or news@clareecho.ie

SALES

Email: ger.naughton@clareecho.ie or niall@clareecho.ie

l SOME MAN FOR ONE MAN: Conrad McCullough, from Dysert, centre, with his parents Brendan and Breda at Clarecastle GAA club after he completed the SKODA Ring of Clare which took in sights including Ennis, Quilty, Kilkee, Kilrush, Carrigaholt and Kildysart during the 160km and 120km routes. More photos p27

Photo by Diarmuid Greene

Clare cyclist defies the odds STUART HOLLY

A

editor@clareecho.ie

CLARE man was declared a Skoda Cycling Hero at the weekend after a lifetime of defying the odds.

Conrad McCullough, who has Down Syndrome, was lauded by his parents, clubmates and event organisers after he completed the 120km Skoda Ring of Clare in the sunshine on Saturday.

Conrad, from Dysart, has beaten all the odds across his 31 years to become a long-distance cyclist and, as his parents Breda and Brendan proudly stated, has brought joy to their life that they never could have imagined.

The cycle, on a route from Clarecastle and back that took in the stunning west coast of Clare, saw Conrad complete two of Skoda’s three sportifs of the year, the first in May when he conquered the Skoda Tour de Conamara and he’s now bound for the triple crown – the Tour de Boyne Valley at the end of August.

His achievements are made more remarkable due to the balance issues faced by people with Down Syndrome means they typically cannot cycle on their own.

His mother Breda said, “When he was born the doctors wanted to take him away and said we didn’t have to keep

him. It was scary to hear that. I will never forget it. I made a promise there and then to him that we would do everything possible for him. But on days like today, looking back at his journey, it’s Conrad who has done so much more for us.”

Recalling that journey, Breda said: “His three older brothers were into cycling and he just wanted to do what they were doing. At about six years old we got him a little bike and he got battered and bruised but he was already showing the spirit and determination then to overcome challenges and that’s what he’s done all his life. He always wanted to be the same as the other lads and he has been exactly that. He’s just Conrad.

Not Conrad with challenges or Down Syndrome. He’s just Conrad.”

Breda adds that their son, a multiple Special Olympics medal winner in gymnastics and swimming, has given huge encouragement to others. “One time a man came over to me and asked if he had cycled the event and I said that he did.

He couldn’t believe it. He said he had a little boy aged just two years old who has Down Syndrome and he couldn’t wait to go home and tell his wife what he saw.

“I just thought that was fantastic. Conrad gives others hope. And it’s not just people with special needs, he’s a great example of how, with determination, you can overcome your challenges.”

4 NEWS

British PM's Bunratty connection uncovered PÁRAIC McMAHON

B

paraic@clareecho.ie

ORIS Johnson may have only taken up residency at the historic 10 Downing St as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom but his ancestry is connected to another iconic building, Bunratty Castle.

Born in Bunratty Castle in 1681, James O’Gorman is the seventh great grandfather of the Conservative Leader. In 1724, O’Gorman moved to Limerick where he lived up until his death twelve years later. He is also the maternal ancestor of Irish nationalist and model, Eva O’Flaherty who died in 1963.

Ennis genealogist, Declan Barron uncovered the link when studying research by Richard Carruthers-Zurowski which flagged the O’Gorman connection. The owner and general manager of Newpark House has dedicated more time to history since taking over the business from his mother. “Through my

lNEW FINDINGS: New UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson can claim that his seventh great grandfather hailed from Bunratty, Co Clare

father I’ve always had an interest, when I came to take over the business a lot of the guests would have been asking me about the history of the house so I decid-

ed to research it to find out and be able to answer the questions”.

James O’Gorman is also the ancestor of James Patrick Mahon who called himself the O’Gorman

Mahon and lived in the house now occupied by Barron, he nominated Daniel O’Connell for election in Clare in 1828. “He would be a forgotten hero of Irish politics, he got a State funeral in Glasnevin but he still has no grave stone”.

Declan highlighted this and the Co Clare link to Boris during his two term eight year stint as Mayor of London.

He was unimpressed with the response received. “My belief is I would have got a personal letter from him if he was interested because I sent him a book and a model of Bunratty Castle, I thought he could have at least written me a personal letter acknowledging it but I got a standard secretarial letter”.

A co-founder of the Clare Roots Society alongside Larry Brennan, Declan has examined political leaders of the past both good and bad, when asked by The Clare Echo which category he felt Johnson would fall into in the future annals of history, he stated “I’d give him the benefit of the doubt and let him see how he does”.

THURSDAY, AUG 1 2019

Johnson is 'most welcome'

BORIS Johnson would be “most welcome” to visit Co Clare if he wished to explore his ancestry roots to Bunratty.

Historian Richard Carruthers-Zurowski carried out research on the UK's new Prime Minister which uncovered that Boris’ seventh great grandfather, James O’Gorman was born in Bunratty Castle before later moving to Limerick.

Mayor of Clare, Cllr Cathal Crowe insisted that Theresa May’s successor would be a welcome visitor to his “ancestral home” in the county.

“I’d have no issue in extending an invitation to Boris Johnson as the new Prime Minister to come and visit us in Clare. Of course he would be welcome in the region, any foreign dignitary is welcome in our county, I think that has been demonstrated quite recently in our county. There would be business to discuss as well, we have the Airport and a region that is concerned with Brexit looming in the Autumn. He would be very welcome but it would mostly be a business visit if he did visit. As Mayor of Clare, I would look forward to greeting him in Shannon Airport”.

Cllr Crowe’s Limerick counterpart, Cllr Michael Sheehan was not as inclined to extend the céad míle fáilte. “In present circumstances if Boris Johnson [visited], with the views he has towards Brexit, I could not welcome him to trace his family roots.”

NEWS

THURSDAY, AUG 1 2019

Clare health supports among nation's worst PÁRAIC McMAHON

C

paraic@clareecho.ie

LARE is among the worst hit counties in Ireland for health supports and the worst in the West of Ireland for community health services, new research has shown.

Although the supply of podiatrists and chiropodists in Clare is above the national average, the same cannot be said for general practitioners, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, counsellors, psychologists, social workers plus speech and language therapists which are all at least ten percent less than most other counties.

Home care hours in the county are the second worst in Ireland.

Kildare has the most amount of services (nine) under the national average with Wicklow, Waterford and Meath (eight) following closely behind alongside Clare, Kilkenny and Waterford (seven) according to research carried out by the ESRI. “A consistent pattern in low supply of care for many counties is observed,” stated the Geographic Profile of Healthcare Needs and Non-Acute Healthcare Supply in Ireland, which is based on 2014 data.

In the county, the deaths per 1,000 population is 6.7%. 13,8% of the population is aged 65-plus with 1.5% older than 85 years old and 12.6% are said to have a disability.

Nearly one in two people living in Clare are in possession of a medical or GP visit

card (46.9%), of those with a medical card 50.1% are receiving a prescription for a chronic health condition.

From 2004 to 2014, there was a 7% increase in the amount of full-time GPs working in Clare. However on a national scale, there is over 10% of a deficit in the quantity of GPs. “Compared with the national value, there are more estimated Whole Time Equivalent GPs per 10,000 population in areas along the west coast apart from Clare”.

Supply of physiotherapists is 8.5% off national levels, occupational therapists (3.7%), speech and language therapists (3.3%), counsellors/psychologists (4.9%) and social workers (4.3%).

Fifteen long term residential care centres exist in the county according to the review with a total of 864 beds. The beds per 1,000 population aged 65 and older is 52.8%, this being 49% over the national value. A total of 228,900 home help hours are offered through the 157 home care packages, the average time slot being 276,238 hours, a gap of 119,044 hours and in this sector Clare is the second worst county in Ireland.

Authors of the report flagged that the geographic imbalance in services will impinge on Sláintecare, the plan which is somewhat aimed at reorganising medical treatment to reduce pressure on acute hospitals.

“It demonstrates that without a resource allocation system there has been considerable regional inequality in the supply of non-acute services, and this cannot be explained on any needs basis we could identify," the report stated.

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NEWS

THURSDAY, AUG 1 2019

l BROLLY GOOD: Launching the Ennis Chamber Annual Golf Classic 2019 at Ennis Golf Club with main sponsor EBS were L-R Emer O’Reilly, EBS Ennis, Gwen Culligan, President Ennis Chamber, Mike Guerin, Ennis Chamber, John Cleary, EBS Ennis and Joe Carmody, President Ennis Golf Club. The event takes place on Friday, August 23.

Call Ennis Chamber on 065 6842988 for details Photos by Arthur Ellis

65 Heritage Week events for Clare

STUART HOLLY

‘P editor@clareecho.ie

ASTIMES. Past Times’ is the main theme of Heritage Week 2019 with 65 events so far confirmed to take place around County Clare from August 17-25.

The 17th annual celebration of Co Clare’s built, natural and cultural heritage is being coordinated locally by Clare County Council and The Heritage Council, with support from Fáilte Ireland and the Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.

The annual initiative is Ireland’s most popular cultural event and this year over 450,000 people nationwide are expected to participate in over 2,000 events aimed at encouraging people to take an interest in their local heritage.

Clare County Council has confirmed that local events taking place include field trips, film screenings, workshops, exhibitions, maritime excursions, historical re-enactments, and local history walks and talks.

Among the events and activities is whale watching at Black Head Lighthouse; “The

Story of a Cave Rescue” at Cultúrlann Sweeney, Kilkee; a talk on Cahiracon House at Kildysart Community Centre; “Bugs, Blooms and the Burren” at the UCG Research Station in Carran; and “Life on the Seashore” at Bishop’s Quarter beach.

Congella McGuire, Clare County Council Heritage Officer, commented: “One of the primary objectives of Clare Heritage Week is to further increase engagement between the people of Clare and the heritage of their county. In doing so, we hope to engender a greater sense of awareness and appreciation of Clare’s cultural, built and natural heritage.

“In order to facilitate the needs of families it was decided once again to hold Heritage Week in mid to late August so that parents could participate in the various events, many of which are outdoors, with their children before they return to school”, added M. McGuire.

Meanwhile, the Heritage Council is once again hosting the National Heritage Week Awards recognising the work of event organisers and volunteers taking part during Heritage Week 2019. Recipients will be honoured at a Heritage Council Awards Day. Visit www.heritageweek.ie or contact 1850-200878 for more details on events happening in Clare.

Finding daughter ‘feels like we won the lottery’

MISSING Clare woman Shauna O’Donnell has been found “alive and well” in Dublin according to her parents.

Gardaí appealed to the public last week to come forward with any information on the whereabouts of the Newmarket-on-Fergus woman who had been not been seen since July 13th. On Friday evening, her parents Ger and Carmel received a call from Gardaí in Pearse St, Dublin to inform them their daughter was safe and living in the capital.

Taking to social media, Ger spoke of the “tremendous debt of gratitude” they wished to extend to all individuals who assisted in successfully tracking down Shauna including Gardaí at Pearse St and Kevin St in Dublin, Henry St and Roxborough in Limerick and Ennis Garda Station.

“I feel like we won the lottery. A huge thank you to all here in social media, we cannot thank you enough. We no longer believe there are no real friends on social media, there are for certain”.

NEWS 7

THURSDAY, AUG 1 2019

Ryder Cup is a gift to Midwest ADARE Manor’s hosting of the 2026 Ryder Cup “will be the single most important event ever for promotion of the region,” Shannon Group have declared.

On Thursday, it was confirmed that the JP and Noreen McManus owned five star resort will host the Ryder Cup in the next decade which acting CEO of the Shannon Group, Mary Considine felt would not be surpassed for the MidWest.

“To secure one of the biggest and most prestigious sporting events in the world is not just a phenomenal achievement for Adare Manor but an incredible boost for this region. The beauty of this is that it’s not just the event itself in 2026 but it is the build-up, starting from today, that will shine a spotlight on the incredible offering that Adare Manor and this region has.

“It doesn’t get better than this for the region. It is huge validation of everything that JP McManus, Noreen and their team have done at Adare Manor.

They had the courage and conviction to invest hugely in something very, very special in the expectation that it would deliver for not just Adare Manor but the region and as of today it is about to, at a level that we could only have dreamed of. This will put the region, which is already famed worldwide for golf and tourism, on the map like never before.”

Battle lines drawn between Dublin and Shannon Airport PÁRAIC McMAHON

D

paraic@clareecho.ie

UBLIN Airport has come under fire for declaring itself as “the key gateway for overseas visitors attending” the 2026 Ryder Cup which takes place 225km away at Adare Manor.

Politicians, business personnel and members of the public have lashed out at the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) following a tweet they posted since the JP and Noreen McManus-owned five star resort was confirmed as the venue, commenting, “We look forward to being the key gateway for overseas visitors attending #RyderCup2026 which will take place at the Adare Manor in Limerick”.

A spokesperson for Shannon Airport told The Clare Echo they are eager to seize the opportunities on offer courtesy of The Ryder Cup. “With direct services from the UK, US and

mainland Europe, the strength of the hospitality sector in our area and, not least, that we are just 20 minutes door-to-door from Adare Manor, Shannon will naturally be the airport of choice for the huge number of visitors coming to our shores for the Ryder Cup in 2026. It’s a wonderful success for Adare Manor, a wonderful opportunity for the region and, indeed, Shannon Airport and one we intend to grasp with both hands.”

It didn’t take long for the Twitterati to point out that Dublin Airport is 2hr 19mins from Adare Manor with the 42.5km journey from Shannon Airport just over half an hour away.

Dublin Airport doubled down by adding in response to a tweet supporting Shannon, “We’ll welcome more overseas visitors for the event as we’re a much larger airport [than Shannon] with much greater connectivity to Britain, the US, and continental Europe. Overseas visitors using Dublin Airport go to all 32 counties”.

lFRUSTRATION: Mayor Cathal Crowe hit out at DAA

Mayor of Clare, Cllr Cathal Crowe said he was “disappointed with DAA’s predatory tweet at a time when this region is basking in good Ryder Cup news”.

Kilrush Independent councillor, Ian Lynch also criticised the stance taken by the DAA. “Dublin is deliberately undermining Shannon Airport. Shannon should be the automatic airport of choice for the Ryder Cup but Dublin’s foothold and marketing budget is difficult to compete with. If the

government are serious about balanced regional development Shannon Airport must be supported.

"While we are well aware of Shannon’s existence here in Ireland unfortunately the same level of awareness is not present in the US market. We have a unique opportunity to ensure a marketing strategy is developed and implemented to maximise the potential reach offered by the Ryder Cup.” Clare senior hurler, David Fitzgerald who completed a masters degree in aviation finance at UCD believed it was a “great opportunity” for Shannon Airport but it required major route investment.

“2026 is on the distant horizon and the Ryder cup will provide a solitary boost to local economy.

Looking at the long term bigger picture, Shannon needs major route investment," he said, adding, "There must be incentives put in place for airlines to use Shannon as a hub for both Transatlantic and European markets, instead of using the already over-capacitated Dublin Airport”.

8 NEWS

Rose event to benefit Clare Haven CLARE Haven Services, a charity which offers assistance to women and children experiencing domestic abuse through its refuge in Ennis and its outreach services throughout Clare, is to benefit from an event organised by Clare Rose of Tralee, Victoria O’Connell (pictured).

The event at the Trump International Doonbeg on Sunday, August 11, is a celebration of Clare women. Guests will enjoy a drinks reception on arrival and tastes of local Clare produce will be served throughout the day. There will also be goodie bags for everyone.

Helen Quealy Murphy of the Daily Diva Diaries blog will be MC while Victoria O’ Connell will be guest speaker, there will be a fashion show by Catwalk Modelling Agency, makeup demonstrations and hair demonstrations. There will be a variety of pop up shops as well selling products from County Clare. 10 per cent from each ticket will go to Clare Haven and assist them in their important work. Tickets cost €75 per person and are available at Eventbrite.ie Marie McLaughlin, Clare Haven Services manager said, “We are extremely grateful to Victoria O’Connell for nominating Clare Haven to be the charity beneficiary of this great event. It is another example of the fantastic support which the people of Clare have given to Clare Haven over the 25 years since its establishment.”

THURSDAY, AUG 1 2019

No oral hearing for Trump Doonbeg work objectors PÁRAIC McMAHON

A

paraic@clareecho.ie

N BORD Pleanála have confirmed there will be no oral hearing regarding proposed works at Trump Doonbeg.

Two and a half years since Trump International Golf Links and Hotel Ireland first lodged plans for coastal protection works at Doughmore Beach, An Bord Pleanála have written to concerned parties to inform their conclusion “that the appeal can be dealt with adequately through written procedures”.

Clare County Council in December 2017 approved the plans that would see 38,000 tonnes of rock placed at Doughmore Beach in front of the golf course.

However, their decision was appealed by a number of parties including An Taisce, California based Save the Waves, Miltown Malbay group Save Doughmore, the West Coast Surf Club of Lahinch and environmentalist Peter Sweetman.

The Irish Times reported that the board adjudicating on the

appeal was delayed for several months last year due to a legal challenge. Objectors will not be able to voice their opposition to the plans as a result of An Bord Pleanála opting against having an oral hearing.

General Manager at the Doonbeg resort, Joe Russell is hopeful an outcome is imminent. “As there is no oral hearing, it appears that An Bord Pleanála has sufficient information to make a decision. An early decision would be helpful to the company.”

Speaking to The Clare Echo earlier this year about the ongoing delays to the decision, restaurant and bar owner Tommy Tubridy stated, “How long can you wait, we’re waiting and waiting for a decision to give us the go ahead on the golf course, you can only wait so long, look at what happened in Athenry, they pulled out and all the jobs that were lost, look at what that would have meant for Athenry, is the same thing going to happen here in Doonbeg?”.

Mr Russell told The Clare Echo environmentalists have failed to be cognisant to the

lHOPEFUL: Mr Joe Russell

Photo by Arthur Ellis

resort’s annual conservation reports. “There is no wall going out there, it is sheet metal piling back from the dune base with rock at the bottom covered over with sand. Unless we have a 1 in 150 year storm that sheet metal piling doesn’t become exposed and we would have an obligation, were we successful, to maintain that look like we have done by the way with our original environmental plan that we have for here. Every year, not every second year, we submit an annual conservation report which isn’t cheap, nobody has

ever come back, I’m here 16 years, nobody has ever come back from an environmental perspective and said ‘you’re doing the wrong thing’. As a General Manager the company’s commitment would be to do what’s agreed in planning”.

He maintained some objectors were against Donald Trump’s connection to the resort and not the plans. “Because some people have a difficulty with Mr Trump they are using this as their cause.

As it relates to this venture, if we don’t get a solution here it’s going to compromise future investment, I asked the question a number of years ago if nothing was done will at some stage the waves be crashing up against this building and nobody could give me an answer.

"The future investment that we have calculated were we to build the recent planning application for the ball room, the leisure centre and the housing you’re talking the guts of €40 million."

Such plans for a €40 million development at the West Clare resort which include a leisure centre, a ballroom, 53 holiday cottages and a new restaurant remain on hold with further information on the application sought by Clare County Council in January.

10 NEWS

THURSDAY, AUG 1 2019

Tour de Munster rolls in CIAN O’BROIN

D

cianobroin@clareecho.ie

OWN Syndrome Ireland’s annual, four day charity cycle, Tour de Munster kicks off next Thursday, taking over 100 cyclists through Cork, Waterford, Tipperary, Limerick, Clare & Kerry.

The event has helped to raise not only more awareness of the

charity and the amazing work it does for its members, but also its bank balance which provides vital services for our members here in the Banner county.

The Clare branch will be out bucket shaking in force while these heroes on wheels roll through our county on Thursday in Killaloe and Friday in Ennis, Kilrush, Miltown Malbay and Ennistymon, and all funds raised in Clare, stay in Clare.

Volunteers are always needed so if you wish to feel like a hero, get

in touch with the Down Syndrome Clare branch on Facebook to give a couple of hours of your time on the day.

Coming up to this event each of Down Syndrome Clare’s 80 members like to write to one of the cyclists, letting them know how they have benefited from funds they helped raise for the branch and thanking them for their time and effort. Here one member shares their personal letter to organiser Paul Sheridan who is also cycling the route.

Dear Paul, I feel like I can call you Paul after having the privilege of meeting you with my little boy Matthew last year in Ennis, when all you Tour De Munster heroes rode into the Square ike a breath of fresh air, full of positivity and with so much energy for what you were being part of. It truly was such a buzz!

My Matthew is doing great; he has his first year of playschool under his belt now and is a new man because of it. He loves school. He is “king of the hugs”, everyone gets one when he arrives and at home time, no one is safe…not even other parents, he’s all about the hugs!

He has really progressed with speech and language therapy through Down Syndrome Clare funds and it’s fantastic seeing him exceed all his goals at each monthly session. Our next hurdle will be swimming lessons which he will start in September, again 100% funded by Down Syndrome Clare. Because I am on the committee in Clare, it’s great to be able to make things happen with services for our members... We are in the process of setting up a cycling program for our young members so with time Matthew will be on his bike and in training mode for Tour De Munster 2039!

My thanks to you once again Paul cannot be measured. I will be up early on Friday the 9th of August, painting the Square purple for your army’s arrival and bucket shaking of course, and look forward to hopefully meeting you there again with Matthew, his big brother Michael and my Husband Ger. Till then may you be proud of the work and training you’re putting in, the person you are and the difference you make.

With the most sincere good wishes Paul, Laura Cahir

Official Cliffs of Moher Shuttle Bus Serving Ennistymon, Lahinch, Liscannor, Doolin, Lisdoonvarna and the coastal walk

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l FRIENDSHIP: Matthew Cahir with cyclist Paul Sheridan

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THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

THURSDAY, AUG 1 2019

Ronan Scully

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK Author spreading the word of positivity

SHANE’S WORLD CLASS AND THOUGHTFUL CELEBRATIONS

“A

rover I have been and a rover I will stay and to that faithful county sure I will return someday.....”. I am just after spending a recent weekend watching in awe, admiration and thanksgiving, one of our own from the Little Town of Clara, Shane Lowry win The Open Golf Tournament and capture what we all now call, “The Clara Jug”, and the celebrations that followed and probably which, will continue to follow in the Little Town of Clara for the rest of the year or until he wins another major and please God he will soon.

I would like to start this thought for the week of congratulating Shane Lowry and all the Lowry and Sacnlon families and everyone from Clara and Ireland on the fantastic achievement of Shane Lowry winning one of the biggest sporting events in the world and probably the greatest achievement by an Irish sporting person ever.

Although my nerves were completely shattered and the candles I lit nearly burnt the house down, it didn’t matter because one of Offaly’s and Ireland’s from the Little Town of Clara greatest Son’s won one of the worlds biggest sporting events and it kicked off huge celebrations everywhere. And after the great homecoming celebrations in Clara recently, it made me look and think about how we celebrate during times of ‘celebration’.

Types of Celebrations I found myself pondering the standard thoughts people would associate with the word ‘celebration’. These included parties, people, fun, speeches, laughter, Golf and Football championships and election wins, gala balls/dances, song, music, drink, food and, usually, more food! Perhaps, even applause and awards. Dressing up or even dressing down. Sleeping

too little, maybe even not sleeping at all! Images of people engaged in conversations with other people or even bearing witness to something very special and unique, such as one of our own winning The Open. Weddings are celebrations too. A couple standing side by side at the front of a small church, filled with the excitement and trepidation of a life about to be journeyed together, with friends and family bearing witness. A child’s first birthday is a celebration I have enjoyed twice in the past. One large candle on a cake, one glowing smiling face and two small hands, along with lots of other small hands from new friends, reaching out at new things. Eyes wide, hands pulling and tugging and the expert guiding of such a large chunk of cake into such a small mouth! Presents wrapped and torn open. Flashes of light from the cameras of family and friends that capture the moment so the event can be celebrated over and over again. Other celebrations are less noticeable.

The smile from the shop attendant who gives you your daily paper.

The concerned and thoughtful questions of your family doctor, your local Garda, postman or curate. The patience of the person behind us in the queue as we sort out our financial queries with the bank assistant. The chef in the local restaurant who remembers how you like your steak or knows that you want a baby dinner and want it ready as quick as possible!

Or, as I found recently, the stranger in the doctor’s waiting room that entertains your energetic and restless youngster while you wait your turn.

Special Moments These frequently occurring moments – if we pay attention to them and honour them - fill our hearts and touch our souls. They

are moments that invite us to feel what it is to be human in our ordinary everyday lives, in the presence of another equally ordinary human being, in the creation of a magical moment, whatever you are wearing and whoever you are with. Every-day, life is a celebration for those, who knows how to live life and make the most out of it. When you know how to pick the right perspective towards different situations of life, you don’t get caught up in momentary life.

When you live your life out of choice, no matter what your life presents, you make the best out of everything. To celebrate every moment of your life needs broader perspective towards life. If your idea is limited, your happiness and joy with life too remain limited. If you live life, with a broader perspective, you plant the seed of joy and happiness every moment, and when the right time comes, it reaps, in the form of joy and happiness. Happiness flourishes into your life at different levels. When you take action, you create your karma, that returns to your life, in one or the other form. You think or feel something, you attract the same thing into your l i f e .

When you radiate energy and vibrations, i n t o your environment, you create the similar environment.

Thought for the week As your thought for the week , think of something important that has happened in your life, whether recently or in the past, big or small, and celebrate it this week with family and friends.

Life is so short, it is important to make the most of every occasion.

Now is the only moment we have.

We have no idea what tomorrow holds. Moments are fleeting, as are invitations. Carpe diem. Indeed we must seize the day. This life is so beautiful when we stop to smell the roses. When we take a moment away from our computer screens and cell phones, and look at the miracles happening around us, we can’t help but want to celebrate. The small things we take for granted are really big things. How often do we celebrate the joys of life? I invite you to celebrate life in every moment possible. Before these precious moments pass on by, let’s celebrate. When we celebrate the happenings of life we bring awareness and focus to these wonderful feelings and attract even more of this goodness into our lives.

Celebration is a core aspect of spirituality.

The things we celebrate reveal a piece of who we are, a piece of what we value and believe in the most. Life requires cel-

ebration – times of joy and rest.

Well we certainly did truly celebrate with Shane Lowry’s Homecoming in Clara recently and again well done to him and all his family and friends in the little town of Clara!! What Shane Lowry proved by winning The Open and in winning other tournaments in the past was the inestimable value of self-belief and it is something that another great Irish sporting legend, Katie Taylor has in bucketloads as well. Shane Lowry has a great goodness, kindness, humility, likability, talent and a dogged determination within him that winning The Open was something he was always going to do no matter what the naysayers said or wrote or spoke. From now on we should all use the lessons from Shane Lowry’s life so far and to keep in the forefront of our minds like he does that if you want to be the best you can be, you need to work very hard at it. Commit yourself to it whatever that ‘it’ should be and then believe in yourself and go try and do it. Who knows?

Maybe, some day, we will all achieve a special dream. For as they say, “Happy are those who dream dreams but even more happier are those who try to achieve them. Congrats Shane Lowry a Real True Irish and World Sporting Legend!!!!

CAREY CALLS ON COUNCIL TO SOLVE SHANNON MAINTENANCE ISSUES

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LARE County Council will make every effort to rectify issues in relation to the maintenance of public spaces in Shannon Town.

That’s according to Council chief executive Pat Dowling who told Clare Fine Gael TD Joe Carey that the matter will receive appropriate consideration and the local authority will endeavour to have the situation rectified as soon as possible.

Mr Dowling was responding to representations from Deputy Carey in support of the Shannon Tidy Towns committee and their concerns about the maintenance of public grass areas and public space generally in Shannon.

Deputy Carey said there was a need for Clare County Council to engage directly with Shannon Tidy Towns on an on-going basis with a view to agreeing a maintenance programme of public space in the town.

“Shannon is a major contributor to Clare County Council in terms of commercial rates yet when it comes to the allocation of resources, such as general operatives on the ground, grass maintenance and up-keep of flower beds etc, the people and organisations in the town feel very much neglected.

“Shannon Tidy Towns are more than willing to work with Clare County Council to achieve their objective to make Shannon an attractive place to live, work and do business in. I would be grateful if you could make the necessary arrangements to put plans in place to address the issues raised in Shannon Tidy Town’s correspondence,” Deputy Carey added.

“In my view the best first step would be to arrange an initial meeting between officials of Clare Council and Shannon Tidy Towns with a view to coming up with a plan”.

Deputy Carey referred to a letter from the Chairman, Secretary and Treasurer of the Shannon Tidy Towns Committee who highlighted the amount of work that went in to enhancing the appearance of the town and the lack of support from the local authority.

“Shannon Tidy Towns needs a commitment from Clare County Council to properly engage in a programme to bring Shannon Town up to a standard of maintenance that is acceptable,” the letter explained.

“More attention to grass maintenance, the allocation of resources for plants and flowers, a more visual presence of local authority workers on the ground and more engagement from Clare County Council local management.

“This issue cannot be ignored or tolerated any longer,” the Tidy Towns officers declared.

NEW-ERA FOR SHANNON AIRPORT AFTER MAJOR INVESTMENT AND RECRUITMENT PROGRAMME

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HANNON Airport, a Shannon Group company, has cutting edge technology and will be equipped with a thermal become the first airport in Ireland to take delivery of imaging camera mounted on the HRET to allow firefighters identwo new state-of-the-art High Reach Extendable Tur- tify the hottest part of the aircraft, key vital knowledge that is ret (HRET) fire tenders. needed to suppress and extinguish aviation fires as quickly and Shannon has also recruited new firefighters after efficiently as possible. an exhaustive selection process saw applicants being whittled Expanding on the benefits of the equipment, Mr. O’Brien said: down from 500 to ten.

“Also for aviation firefighting, at the end of the HRET there is a The recruits, who began their training on June 24th, will un- piercing nozzle. If you have an internal fire in a cargo hold of an dergo an intensive 12-week training programme which will equip aircraft, rather than commit a team into the risk area, with your them to begin work in the combined role of airport police and fire thermal imaging camera, you can identify where the heat source personnel. The recruits are aged between 22 to late 30s and is, and you can penetrate the part of the hold where the fire is come from a range of backgrounds. with the piercing tool.

Pat O’Brien, Chief Officer Fire & Rescue, Airport Police Fire “It literally can pierce through the aluminum of the aircraft.

Service, Shannon Airport said: “It is a new era for the Airport Then you can apply water or foam internally on the fire. It acts Police and Fire Service in Shannon and we are looking forward like a sprinkler, cooling and suppressing fire. Even if you have to the recruits entering the service. Their training programme is to commit a crew to the fire following this, you have already reintensive and has benefited hugely from significant investment duced the risk to them by cooling the fire. in the very latest technology and training aids. Over 500 people “Our facilities have advanced to such a high degree we now applied for just ten positions, which is a testament to the calibre have outside fire crews coming to train in Shannon and we hope of the team we have assembled. this is an area we can expand on in the future.”

“Our recruits come from all walks of life, including a painter, a panel beater, strength and conditioning coach and paramedic. Some of them travel from Galway, Longford, Limerick, and Clare. Through the selection process they have proved themselves to be capable of working well in challenging environments, and with people who may be in distress.

Commenting on the importance of the investment in new equipment Pat O’Brien, said: “It was of paramount importance to the management team at Shannon Airport to ensure the safety of passengers and staff, and the new fire tenders have additional safety benefits for both airport fire service staff and passengers.

Pat explained: “Conventional fire tenders require that firefighters be put into the risk area to fight aviation fires. However, the new HRET appliance reduces this requirement as fires can be extinguished remotely by operating the HRET from the vehicle cab, allowing the application of water, foam and dry chemical directly to the WE DIDN’T START THE FIRE: Pictured leading the recruits during Branch Handling training is recruit Hilary Cleary, seat of the fire.

Hospital, Co Limerick Pic Arthur Ellis “The new fire tenders use

Entertainment

WORLD’S ONLY LGBT+ MUSIC & MATCHMAKING FESTIVAL

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HE Outing Festival, ‘Love for Music, Arts & Matchmaking’ – now in our seventh year, a new twist on old traditions. Our Award Winning and World Famous The Outing Festival is calling all singles, couples and groups – gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans, straight and their friends to join us for this fun-filled LGBT+ Weekend like no other in the world in the west of Ireland 27th & 28th September 2019.

The Outing Festival is on the move from the village of Love Lisdoonvarna after six year, as we share the Love when we move to the grounds of Dromoland Castle & take over The Inn at Dromoland, Co. Clare in the West of Ireland 27th & 28th Sept.

With a bigger location and even more in store as The Outing goes into our seventh year of the festival, we have new partners like vaping brand blu, who are coming on board as a platinum sponsor. blu’s Irish Head of Marketing Carmel Balala said; ‘’blu, Ireland’s newest vaping brand, is about freedom of choice, of self-expression and about being who you are. Therefore, we are proud to be supporting The Outing Festival. We will be giving people the chance of experiencing our new myblu range of products at the festival in September.’’

Carmel went on to say; ‘’The Outing Festival is continuing to go from strength to strength with the indefatigable Eddie McGuinness at the helm and we are proud to be associated with it.’’

People have travelled from all over the world to the festival in previous years to enjoy pop-up clubs, drag performances, comedy, live music, arts, literary and film festivals and interactive events in Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands. Of course, matchmaking plays a huge part of the festival but The Outing also acts as a celebration of the LGBT community so whether you’re single or taken, gay, trans, straight or bi, all are welcome to this fun weekend.

“We came all the way over from the USA and had an awesome time. Who knew there were so many hot Irish people…

BOOM!” said US visitor Chad Boulton and it’s not just the visitors who have a great time, the performers love it too.

“WOW! Great Craic. Amazing to be part of something from the start. I could have sung all night long the crowd were up for more. Thank you” commented Eurovision winner Niamh Kavanagh after her performance at the festival and she is returning in 2019 for even bigger show.

Hosted by Drag Ringmaster Paul Ryder & Gay Matchmaker Eddie McGuinness, Live on stage Johnny Logan, Mr. Pussy,

Victoria Secret Dublin, Danny Beard, Evin Dennehy, Candy Warhol, Sparkle, Dj Ruth Dignam (The George Dublin, Club Tease), Brew Mbirika, Paul Middleton, Kiki St Clair, Club Gass, with Wet and Wild Sports Club, The Apple Blossoms, and lots more artists & performers plus pool parties to Blind Dates, Speed Dating. You name it we will get up to it. We also have an Afternoon Tea and Crafts Fair...

As Panti Bliss said “The Outing takes something quintessentially Irish and dips it in glitter. It opens up the idea of “traditional Irishness” to the LGBT community and says, actually, yes, you can be LGBT and still be as Irish” “An LGBT weekend away like no other”, according to former festival host Panti Bliss, The Outing is a fusion of music, comedy, ceilí bands and some of Ireland’s & International best Dj’s, Performers and drag artists. But don’t forget why you’re here in the first place. This is a matchmaking festival and you’re looking for love or friendship.

Yes ‘You’re Not The Only Gay in This Village’ said Eddie McGuinness Festival Director & Gay Matchmaker.

The Outing is a spectacular weekend like no other that celebrates life, love, and diversity. We’ll have news of the full line-up soon but in the meantime follow them on Twitter (@theouting_ie) and Facebook (@

MULDOON’S PICNIC

GLÓR | WEDNESDAY 7TH AUGUST 8PM TICKETS 18 / 16 CONC. GLÓR BOX OFFICE 065-6843103 OR WWW.GLOR.IE

TheOutingFestival) to keep up-to-date with all of the latest announcements and get set for a wonderful weekend this 27th & 28th September 2019 The Inn at Dromoland, Co, Clare, Ireland.

Tickets on Sale Now. Hotel Package & Weekend Tickets

Paul Ryder (top), Eddie McGuinness (bottom left) and Carmel Balala (bottom right)

AFTER ten sold out seasons at the Irish Arts Centre in New York and a highly successful Irish tour in 2017, Poetry Ireland and glór present Muldoon’s Picnic on Wednesday 7th August.

An omnium-gatherum of poetry, prose and music, Muldoon’s Picnic is hosted by the Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Paul Muldoon, ‘the most significant English-language poet born since the Second World War’ (Times Literary Supplement).

The title Muldoon’s Picnic refers to a popular 19th-century New York vaudeville show, which inspired the New York based Muldoon to begin hosting these carefully blended evenings of literature and music back in 2014.

Described by Time Out New York as “a music-and-literature extravaganza,” each show on the tour has a bespoke mix of artists from the worlds of music and literature. Guests such as Michael Longley, Lisa O’Neill, Zadie Smith, and Horslips will join Muldoon for six different evenings of creative and collaborative energy.

Paul Muldoon describes Muldoon’s Picnic as a direct response to that ancient impulse to perform, to share, to make one’s own amusement; “It’s one of our most basic instincts; to listen to a song, listen to a poem. Even in this era when people have their noses stuck in their tablets, it still works.”

The house band for the show is Rogue Oliphant - a collective of musicians and composers including Chris Harford, (Three Colors, Band of Changes), Cait O’Riordan, (The Pogues), David Mansfield, (Bob Dylan, The Alpha Band) and Ray Kubian, (Electric Six, Chris Forsyth).

On Wednesday 7th August at glór, Muldoon will be joined by singer, songwriter and storyteller Declan O’Rourke, musician, composer, poet and the last surviving member of the definitive line-up of The Dubliners John Sheahan, Nigerian-born, Longford-raised spoken word poet Felicia Olusanya and Irish Times journalist and cultural commentator Fintan O’Toole.

Produced by Poetry Ireland and supported by an Arts Council /An Chomhairle Ealaíon and Arts Council of Northern Ireland Touring Grant.

ENTERTAINMENT

THURSDAY, AUG 1 2019

2019 QUEEN OF THE WATERWAYS WILL BE CROWNED AT SCARIFF

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HE 2019 Queen of the Waterway’s title will be eagerly contested over the August Bank Holiday week-end by 11 young east Clare women. Representing themselves and local sponsors, they come from Scariff and surrounding areas and will participate in a broad range of festival activities before engaging in a final public interview with former RTE presenter, Ciana Campbell on the Fair Green on Sunday night (August 4th).

Karena O’Brien, Organiser of the Queen of the Waterways is delighted to be involved again this year despite a lot of advance preparation and supportive engagement over the week-end. She acknowledges the enthusiasm and support of the girls who allow their names to go forward for selection and to the local sponsors without whom it couldn’t happen.

This year’s entrants include Shannon Waterstone (Scariff; Jakko’s Bar); Carmel O’Brien (Ogonnelloe; East Clare Golf Club); Niamh McGill (Scariff; Centra); Cieara Kilkenny (Mountshannon; Nuala’s Bar & Restaurant) Shauna Quigley (Scariff; Eve’s Beauty Salon) Karla Murray (Killanena; Supermacs) Ella McNamara (Killanena; Anita’s Hair Salon) Greta Hickey (Mountshannon; Wilde’s Chocolates) Aife Quirke (Whitegate; Genevieve’s Hair/Leona’s Hair Salon) Tara Fielding (Scariff; In Season Flowers) and AnnMarie Gillispie (Tuamgraney; Leapfrog Creche) ‘I just want it to be a lovely memory for all of them. Most are just finished school and heading off to college or other courses.

This is a time that they can enjoy together

before they scatter in different directions,’ said the busy organiser and festival committee member. It takes confidence to go on stage and be publicly interviewed before a very large audience. I am so grateful to the local business community and to Joanne’s Boutique in Ballina for jewellery gifts and to Martina in ‘In Season Flowers’,’ Karena said.

This is the eighth year of the Queen of the Waterways event. Whitegate girls, Anna Burke and Katie Hynes were popular winners in 2018 & 2016 respectively.

They followed in the footsteps of the competition’s previous winners, Denise Walshe from Bodyke (2012), Ciara Minogue from Feakle (2013), Kate Collins, Scariff (2014) and Kelli Nugent, Scariff in (2015) and Sinead O’Callaghan, Killanena (2017).

The 2019 contestants will be introduced at the Festival Opening on Friday evening

by MC Jim Collins in advance of the arrival on stage of the Festival’s Guest of Honour, author and journalist Derry-born, Susan McKay. The Queen participants will assist with a number of festival events before meeting with adjudicators in advance of the on-stage interview on the final night.

The 2019 Queen of the Waterways will be crowned with a tiara before the Shandrum Céili Band and later Na Fianna take to the stage on Sunday night (August 4th).

The Waterways Ireland Scariff Harbour Festival runs from the 1st-4th August beginning on Thursday night with a Christie Hennessy tribute concert by Aonghus McAnally at the Church of the Sacred Heart. For details check www.scariffharbourfestival.ie

lQUEEN: Anna Burke from Whitegate Crowned Queen of the Waterways 2018 at Scariff Harbour Festival with host Ciana Campbell

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16 NEWS BRIEFS / OPINION

Steiner schools to become community national schools

LIMERICK and Clare Education and Training Board and Lifeways Ireland have announced that two of County Clare’s most successful national schools, which teach using the Steiner pedagogy, are to transfer from their current patron Lifeways Ireland to the patronage of Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board on September 1, 2019.

The schools to be transferred are Mol an Óige, Ennistymon, and Raheen Wood, Scariff.

The new arrangement will help provide a framework of support for the two schools, as well as enhancing the teaching and learning provided by the schools.

Under the new patronage the Steiner pedagogy in both schools will be maintained. Lifeways Ireland will continue to advise the schools in relation to Steiner pedagogy. Commenting on the announcement, Pearse O’Shiel, Chairperson of Lifeways Ireland, said: “In the current climate it is not possible for a voluntary body such as Lifeways to provide the broad range of necessary supports to the growing number of schools that wish to teach using Steiner methodology. Under the patronage of Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board the two schools will be provided with the supports they require to develop and progress.”

Community National Schools are co-educational, multidenominational schools underpinned by the core values of excellence in education, care, respect, equality and community. The decision to transfer patronage follows an extensive period of review by the board of Lifeways Ireland on its future role. The Boards of Management of the schools, as well as parents and staff, supported the decision following a consultation process that involved each of the school communities.

George O’Callaghan, Chief Executive of Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board said: “This is an historic day for the schools and the ETB. Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board very much looks forward to working closely with the management of the schools and with Lifeways Ireland to support the schools in their transition to Community National Schools and in the delivery of quality education using Steiner methodologies for which they have become justly renowned.”

Big role for Beirne

CLARE woman Irene Beirne (right) has been appointed University Maternity Hospital Limerick’s first Neonatal Registered Advanced Nurse Practitioner (RANP).

RANPs are the highest level of clinical experts in the nursing profession, and Irene, who has worked at University Maternity Hospital Limerick since

2001, now plays a more crucial role than ever in the care and management of premature and complex births in the hospital’s Neonatal Unit.

Congratulating Irene, Margaret Quigley, Director of Midwifery, UHL, said: “I wish to thank all the staff in the Neonatal Unit who helped to make Irene’s appointment happen.”

l BUSINESS TIME: Siobhan Bermingham of Essilor with Gwen Culligan, President of Ennis Chamber and Nicole Lorigan of Treacy’s West County at the launch of the Clare Business Excellence Awards. The 10th edition of the awards will see two new categories, including ‘Best Green & Sustainable Practices’ (sponsored by CupPrint) and ‘Best Use of Digital Marketing’ (sponsored by Treacy’s West County) Photo by Arthur Ellis

Campervan rescue KILRUSH RNLI were launched early Wednesday to reports of a partially submerged campervan which had two occupants on board where they were assisted by the Ballybunion unit of the Irish Coast Guard and the Shannon based search and rescue helicopter.

Rising tides at Carrig Island in Co Kerry forced the duo to climb onto the roof of the campervan. The pair had parked for the night near the shoreline and were then cut off by the incoming tide in the early hours of Wednesday morning. An alarm was raised at 04:45 when the National Ambulance Service received a report of individuals in difficulty.

At 05:04, the Kilrush RNLI was launched on the request of the Valentia Coast Guard, the inshore lifeboat arrived on scene twenty two minutes later where Kerry Fire Service and An Garda Síochána personnel had assisted both casualties from the roof of the campervan to an awaiting ambulance, Kilrush RNLI was stood down at 5.33am and returned to station. Ambulance paramedics assessed the two people at the scene but they did not require further medical attention.

THURSDAY, AUG 1 2018

Eoin Neylon

An inside look at Clare’s political spectrum

The Irish abroad are not out of touch...

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ITH the upcoming referendum to extending voting rights in Presidential elections to Irish citizens abroad, the debate, regrettably, has already been taken over by extreme opinions, fear-mongering and misinformation. Firstly, we should celebrate the fact that we, as a people, are quite in tune with the political process and, by comparison to some of our closest neighbours, we are some of the better-informed voters out there.

We’ve demonstrated this on multiple occasions and many academic studies have also confirmed this opinion. This is due in no small part to the fact that we’re an outward looking people.

The Irish have a history of having to look abroad throughout the past few hundred years through disaster, war but also exploration, business, innovation and research. Let us not forget, it is the island of saints and scholars that has been credited with leading Europe out of the dark ages. There is scarcely one among us that doesn’t have family overseas for one reason or another. So why, suddenly, are people growing fearful of what these family members might say or do with something as basic as the right to vote?

Should we approve of the referendum this Autumn, Ireland would not be setting a new global trend or even joining a growing movement. In fact, Ireland is a laggard in refusing to allow our citizens abroad a vote. Well over 100 countries allow voting from abroad for its citizens, including 23 of our EU allies. We have been very self-congratulatory here in Ireland in recent times when it comes to marriage equality and repealing the 8thamendment, however, just like with climate

change, Ireland is a way behind international best practice when it comes to the right to vote. That’s not to say that just because most others are doing something, we should do it too. Nevertheless, very few countries have such a history of being so dependent on its diaspora to, firstly, establish herself as an independent nation, and subsequently develop that fledgling nation into a proud, modern Republic. The diaspora have asked for almost nothing in return in the interim.

But now that something is being offered, something as simplistic as a vote for the Presidency, some people are dead set to block it for less than rational reasons.

I’ve heard fanciful arguments along the lines of; “what if they all vote for a candidate from this party?” to “they’ll outvote the Irish in Ireland.” Firstly, neither of these are based on fact. Firstly, there has been little by way of studies on voting intentions of the Irish abroad. One such was carried out by internet poll, restricted by IP address, during the 2011 General Election, the results of which didn’t vary wildly from the actual poll result itself. This despite it being a time of high emotion, in the thick of the global financial crash. Secondly, the Irish diaspora is some 50 million strong, however, very few of these would be eligible for an Irish passport and citizenship.

It’s estimated that 3 million people abroad would be eligible but, as we see at home, not all of these would vote. In fact, from international experience, only those born and raised and still in regular contact with home bother to vote in General Elections when eligible, save those who have separate “overseas seats”, as they do in the French Parliament. Just because someone in Brexit Britain has gotten an Irish

passport for business reasons doesn’t mean they’re going to vote for President.

But what of the Irish abroad and who do care?

I was one of those during the recession. Qualified as a civil engineer in 2008, I found myself moving abroad out of necessity. My sister and older brother had to live abroad at the same time also. This wasn’t an easy time for the family, watching my niece grow up via Skype and trying to stay up to date with Ballyea and Clondegad via Twitter.

I was always keen to stay involved with home and as such, it galled me greatly that I could not vote in the 2011 Presidential election.

Many others felt the same.

The Irish abroad are not out of touch or unfeeling as to what is happening on these shores. WhatsApp, Facebook and other social media mean I can discuss election results in real time with my cousin in Sydney, chat about the latest from the intercounty hurling championship with the lads in London and discuss the latest local stories from Clare with school friends which they’d read in the digital editions of this paper no matter where in the world they are. The Irish abroad are not a nameless, faceless hoard of people to be feared. They’re our brothers and sisters, our aunts, uncles and cousins, our friends and colleagues.

They deserve a vote as much as the next person when it comes to choosing the President of Ireland.

After all, the President is described as the first citizen and the representative of the Irish people. Should our brethren, Irish citizens abroad, not have a say in selecting such a person.

It’s time for us to grow up as a country, cherish all the children of the nation equally, and extend the Presidential franchise to those living abroad for whom Ireland will always be home.

Kilrush aspires to be Ireland’s most sustainable town by 2025 PÁRAIC McMAHON news@clareecho.ie

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ECOMING Ireland’s most sustainable town is the future aspiration for Kilrush following the publication of a recent plan which spans over 117 pages.

Made up of seven goals, ten objectives and eighty four actions all with the common aim of creating a sustainable town, the plan was born from the initiative of the Kilrush Tidy Towns with the work subsequently led by native Chris Dixon who lives in London and holds a Masters in Environmental Policy from UCD. Launched earlier this month, the front cover sets out their target of becoming the most sustainable town in Ireland by 2025 which is intended to have the subsequent effect of creating further opportunities and encourage people to set up homes and businesses there.

Secretary of Kilrush Tidy Towns, Paul Ed- survey, the twelve person committee were son outlined what prompted the idea for the pleased with the input. “We thought the plan. “As an area of tidy towns which was response was really good. It was an online about waste minimisation, sustainability, survey, that immediately rules out a lot of we wanted to people who get a full unare unable to derstanding do that and and grasp of you’ve got how we could the youth best achieve and children, creating a that’s the next sustainable generation we environment will be targetin Kilrush, ing, they are we thought surrounded the best thing by the whole to do would sustainability be to employ vision as they somebody are growing who was an up so it will expert in that l SUSTAINABLE: An aerial view of Kilrush Marina and become natScattery Island area”. ural to them Edson, who is the Managing Director of whereas for everyone else it’s a matter of tryThe Family Store has observed “a keenness ing to adjust their lifestyle to become more and a willingness” to make it a success. With sustainable”.

286 responses to the public consultation Businesses in the town have also rowed

in with their efforts. “We feel that the businesses in town are keen to become involved, we’re very optimistic it will be a success,” the Wakefield native told The Clare Echo. He is one of twelve people on the sustainability committee all with different roles in dealing with various groups to assist with the implementation of the plan.

“I’m sure there are other communities working hard to become a more sustainable community, if you’re setting yourself a target you should always set the highest bar of what you want to be the best at doing it, if we don’t achieve that then it’s probably our own fault. The plan is there, if we can achieve all the objectives and actions in the plan then we would have done our very best and we could say that we would be maybe not the most but one of the most sustainable communities in Ireland and that’s our target. As long as we have tried to implement the plan the best we can then we can hold our heads up high to say we’ve done our best and we’re happy with the result so now it is up to us to knuckle down and implement the actions that are in the plan to make it a success”.

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Whole of West Clare behind Kilrush RNLI PÁRAIC McMAHON news@clareecho.ie

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NDOUBTEDLY wonderful memories are made on days by the sea but such is the power of the water that scenes of heartbreak are also part and parcel of life by the Atlantic as the Kilrush RNLI are well aware of.

“They always say behind every good man there is a good woman, in our case behind the lifeboat station is a whole great West Clare area,” lifeboat operations manager of the Kilrush RNLI, Pauline Dunleavy said of the backing they have in the locality and praised their strong relations with the Kilkee and Doolin Coast Guard.

Such support stems from their team of twenty eight volunteers assisting on the toughest days whether it be searching for a person missing at sea or the recovery of a body. “Every scenario is different and every person’s scenario is unique. Without a doubt you have to take every instance as their own case, it is sad but when the recovery of the body happens it is paramount we have a debrief and support services within the organ-

isation for the crew that would go afloat as well as if the body is brought back that the shore crew would be looked after, anyone in the station is welcome to that support. It is great to know there is back up for them, some recoveries aren’t pretty but it’s great to bring that body home and have closure for the family”.

Their contribution during what has been dark hours from families all over Ireland is appreciated. Last week, she received a call from a Kerry family whose son died by suicide, proceeds from his funeral going towards the RNLI. “People say when a body was lost at sea, when they are

vicious and never to be taken for granted”.

Owner of Anchor Crafts, Dunleavy admitted “there isn’t two weeks that go by that I don’t get a call to say somebody has left money or better still they want to hold a fundraiser”.

From “beautiful Moyasta”, Pauline has been in the role since December 2014, a gig she certainly had no expectations of taking on when first volunteering with the RNLI. “The night I was signing up to join the crew I thought I was going to be making the tea like you see in Britain, these ladies making sure the crew are all looked after

lost at sea it is really sad but when there is a recovery even though it is sad it is such closure for that family that they have somebody to mourn and they can go to a grave and have that person returned to them, the sea is so

when they go to sea, I never thought for one minute I was going to become a crew”.

Once a week, they go afloat in training exercises to ensure if a call comes from

the Coast Guard that they are ready and equipped for what may unfold. Recruiting new volunteers has become more difficult she revealed, with the tragic September 2016 death of Caitriona Lucas, the first ever Irish C o a s t Guard volunteer to die on active service proving to be “a knock” when in getting new personnel on board.

Earlier this month, the RNLI alongside the GAA launched their Respect the Water partnership at Kilrush with Marty Morrissey and Anthony Daly present for the photo shoot.

“It was a great evening, kids from all over the county came to visit them and say hello to them, they were here for the best bones of four hours. It’s all voluntary, we’re a charity and anything that people want to leave we’ll take it, the company itself has gone from strength to strength in terms of the personnel that flag these organisations to get cash in, without cash we’re not going anywhere”.

KILRUSH

Teamwork needed to see local tourism offering rival best in Ireland PÁRAIC McMAHON news@clareecho.ie

W

EST Clare’s tourism offering can easily rival the best in Ireland once proper collaboration is carried out in the region.

A more cohesive approach is being carried out in Kilrush with the goal of enticing people to West Clare as visitors and possible residents. Founder and director of Scattery Island Tours, Irene Hamilton outlined how they partner with local businesses in offering bundled options through the dolphin watch and Aqua Park plus their packed lunches come from The Potter’s Hand and the bread via Considines Bakery.

“We all need to work more together to promote ourselves as a destination area. The peninsula itself, Kilkee, Loop Head, Carrigaholt, Kilrush, Doonbeg all have a unique offering. Doonbeg has very good beaches, camping and restaurants, Kilkee has a beautiful beach and stunning cliff coast, Carrigaholt has the dolphin watching, lovely restaurants and pubs and Kilrush has a lot of natural assets including the Vandeleur Walled Gardens, it blue flag beach, Dolphin Watching and Scattery Island and a new visitor attraction in the Aqua Park and is a lovely market town for shopping. As a destination area, there is a lot to offer people to come and stay in Kilrush and slow down the tourism, and not focus on racing to do the Wild Atlantic Way over a week. If you can promote an area you will attract people to come and stay”.

She told The Clare Echo, “I think we have a huge amount to offer that would easily rival what they can offer in Kerry. The Wild Atlantic Way is certainly helping build visitor numbers, and social media helps that because it allows everyone individually to promote the beauty of their area. Businesses at a local level in West and North Clare are working together to support each other, business is hard so its really important that we support each other locally”.

Fáilte Ireland data from 2017 revealed Kerry had 1.2m visitors with a spend of €337m, more than double the €158m left behind by Clare’s 749,000 tourists. The tour-

ism lead with the Kilrush Town Team was confident the gap could be bridged. “Clare has a beautiful coastline, wonderful towns and a stunning Burren area. It has all of the attractions and more that Kerry has to offer but Kerry people are in the tourism industry a long time, they know it and do it well. Clare as a county is really getting on it’s feet now with tourism and is growing visitor numbers into the county as a whole. I certainly think there is no reason whatsoever why what we have as a county can rival Kerry”.

Her former role as Regional Managing Director of Johnston Press saw her monitor newspapers daily. One newspaper advert in particular would prove to be life-changing as an advertisement on the tender of a ferry service from Kilrush to Scattery Island presented Irene with a new product and challenge, one in which she has always been passionate about.

Year one saw the transition from a twelve passenger boat to a seventy passenger ferry with 5,500 visitors to the island in 2018.

Notable highlights include the island scooping an EDEN award and recently being named by The Irish Independent as one of the seven wonders of Ireland.

Originally from Cappa, Irene has always enjoyed the buzz associated with startups, the latest venture has seen her return to the roots as Hamilton’s father, Brendan Griffin, was born on Scattery Island. Now, she feels the winds of change blowing towards Kilrush Marina. “There is a great vibrancy around the Marina with the various activities, the boats to Scattery, the dolphin watch, the pods are there which are a very unique experience for an overnight, the Aqua Park, camper vans can stay there, it’s bringing lots of people into Kilrush.

“For the last month at least, people were coming into the ticket office and saying ‘my goodness Kilrush looks beautiful, I haven’t been here in so long’ but it’s busy and vibrant! So many people in Kilrush are working hard to show Kilrush for the vibrant and beautiful market town that it is. We have an extremely good Tidy Towns committee, who have the town showcased so beautifully with flowers and kept clean. It is a very attractive town to drive into and people are really begining to see that now with increased visitors coming it avail of the various tourist offerings.

l ALL ABOARD: Irene Hamilton and the Scattery Island Tours team boarding for another journey.

19

WE ARE HERE!

when you need us...!

 065 9051242  info@kilrushcreditunion.ie Credit Union House, Market Square, Kilrush, Co Clare.

www.kilrushcreditunion.ie Credit Unions are Regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland

KILRUSH

21

The Kilrush trad festival kicks off The Kilrush Traditional Music & Set Dancing Festival starts Wednesday July 31st in the Town Square Kilrush. Get your dancing shoes on and swing by the square for great music and dancing.

Wednesday July 31st 10p.m. Singers Club with Jerry McNamara: Haven Arms.

Thursday August 1st 9p.m Seisiun at Teach Cheoil.

Friday August 2nd 10a.m.-12p.m. Sean Nos Dancing Workshop with Aidan Vaughan @Teach Cheoil.

1-4p.m. Set Dancing Workshop with Mike Mahony @ Teach Cheoil.

6.45p.m. Official Opening of Festival.

7p.m. Ceili in the Square with the DalgCais Ceili Band: Saturday August 3rd 10-1p.m. Set Dancing Workshop with Mike Mahony @ Teach Cheoil.

2.30p.m.-5.30p.m. Ceili in the Square with Johnny Reidy Ceili Band.

8p.m. Traditional Concert at Teach Cheoil: Sunday August 4th 3p.m. Music display in the square 7p.m-9.30p.m. Ceili in the Square with the Tulla Ceili Band Monday Aug 5th .

3p.m. Dance Display in the Square.

6p.m-8.30p.m. Ceili in the Square with the Striolan Ceili Band .

9p.m. Farewell Session in the Haven Arms.

Dolphin Watching Trips

Tours depart from Kilrush marina, Kilrush, Co. Clare Boat trips depart daily onboard MV Dolphin Discovery to see the resident pod of bottlenose dolphins in the Shannon estuary. This is one of the most enjoyable and exciting activities to be had while exploring County Clare and the Wild Atlantic Way. TRIP DURATION: 2-2½ HOURS

BOOK NOW

Daily sailings posted on website Prior booking advisable - Bookings: Ph: 065-9051327 E: info@discoverdolphins.ie - W:www.discoverdolphins.ie Facebook: Discover Dolphins

Include Wild Atlantic Way symbol

087 9543000 WWW. WESTCOASTAQUAPARK .IE

THE MARINA, KILRUSH, Co. CLARE

West Coast Ad 130 x 314.indd 2

29/07/2019 20:01

22 KILRUSH

West Clare Groups will engage proactively with new Taskforce

F

IANNA Fáil General Election candidate for Clare Rita McInerney says business and community groups across West Clare are prepared to engage fully with a proposed new taskforce aimed at securing new investment into the county.

Ms McInerney organised and hosted a meeting of the Kilrush Town Team, Kilrush Chamber of Commerce, Kilkee Chamber of Commerce and the Doughmore Protection Group to discuss the measures needed to bring new employment and investment to the region.

“For too long West Clare and large parts of rural Ireland have been left behind by successive Fine Gael governments. We’ve seen essential services closed and the recent announcement of further job losses at Moneypoint and concerns over future employment opportunities at the facility has created an urgency among businesses and locals to ensure than urgent measures are implemented to mitigate the lay offs”, said Ms McInerney.

“The establishment of the taskforce is a welcome development, but it is essential that everybody engages with it. I welcome the contributions made by local TDs and Senators and local lobby groups, and their commitment to work with the taskforce is a positive step.

“While there are a number of issues affecting West Clare, the situation at Moneypoint is undoubtedly the biggest challenge facing the area.

The loss of so many jobs is a huge blow, and locals are very worried that there is no overarching strategy for the facility. We must see alternative options for the site explored. The current impasse is hugely damaging to the area.

“The ESB and government need to explore the best options for Moneypoint that will result in securing high-value, high-volume, skilled jobs on the site. It is estimated that it would take between 8-10 years to have a fully operational offshore wind energy facility up and running so time is of the essence.

“It was widely acknowledged at the meeting that there are a number of exciting tourism projects in the pipeline for West Clare and while it is a very important sector to the area, permanent, all-year round, well paid jobs are also needed to sustain communities.

“Calls were also made for the upgrade of the N68 to improve road safety along the route, as well as improving journey times between Ennis and Kilrush.

“I want to thank everyone who attended this week’s meeting. It generated many frank and open discussions and allowed local people to voice their concerns.

We appreciate there is a long road ahead but welcome the establishment of the taskforce. I look forward to continuing to work with the Oireachtas members and local Councillors to the future benefit of West Clare”, concluded McInerney.

KILRUSH

23

Returning home to start a family & a business PÁRAIC McMAHON

W news@clareecho.ie

HEN Padraig and Julie Neylon moved to Frances St, Kilrush in the autumn of 2016 they were one of very few families with children to do so in four decades, the intervening three years have seen more young couples follow suit bringing life back to an area hit hard during the recession.

Returning to West Clare was an idea that had been festering in Padraig’s mind for a few years with Julie spending two hours in traffic every day on the commute to work while they were based in Galway.

Upon the move, the Kilmurry McMahon man set up +AddJust which now employs five people and Julie opened Wild Atlantic Opticians in the heart of the town which welcomed the arrival of broadband soon after. This ability to communicate online coupled with flexibility, a work/life balance and nearby creche facilities are credited by the couple as big attractions to set up in Kilrush.

Recalling the early days of both businesses, Padraig said it was a period of both excitement and stress. “I remember being in Julie’s opticians the day she opened and very much

waiting for the first person to come in the door and wondering would anyone come in the door. Thankfully she is well-established now, she’s there two and a half years and is tipping away nicely. In any business, you’re going to have the mix of expectation, fear and excitement”.

They have seen the positives of West Clare but Padraig is concerned changes to the main artery to the area may discourage more businesses from setting up there.

“There is no utopian business location anywhere in the world. One of the biggest hindrances has been the downgrading of the N68, the speed has been brought down from 100km/h to 80km/h in a lot of locations, we are in a remote location business wise and that has made it a little bit harder. I still travel to Dublin, our clients are based in Dublin and all over the country, that access to the rest of the country is something that needs to be looked at”.

“Investors when they are looking at a location, one of the first things they look at is infrastructure and when there is poor accessibility to an area it doesn’t augur well. In the likes of Shannon you’re two minutes off a motorway, if Kilrush is to ever compete for a large employer it’s going to be difficult,” he told The Clare Echo.

Padraig, Julie and their two daughters, Theola and Kara became the first nonGlynn family to live in Kilrush House since

the 1870s but also set the way for other young couples to seriously consider Frances St when buying a home. “Another family has moved in next door to us since in one of the apartments, our kids and their kids have become good friends and it’s something we would like to see a little bit more of for more kids their age to play with. There have been a few couples, Charlie and Deirdre Glynn recently got married just around the corner from us, there is another couple that have moved in next door, Suzy Glynn and James Harding, we’re beginning to see a bit of a shift and it’s something that hopefully will be replicated across the country with small towns becoming more attractive for young families”.

The Glynns are synonymous with the history of the market town, the dynasty continues with the aforementioned Charlie the Chair of the Kilrush Town Team which is working towards the future of Kilrush.

Former St Flannans student, Padraig is one of the volunteers forming part of the team.

“We’re beginning to get results in terms of shaping the vision for the town with public consultation. It’s going to take time, slow and steady will win the race, we’ve plans over the next couple of years to develop a few strategies and a few events for the town.

It’s going quite well and it’s something that will grow organically for a few years as opposed to there being one big loud bang”.

In assessing the decision to return to Kilrush to live and work, Padraig is relieved with their choice.

“When we go to Dublin for work and I come back I scratch m y head trying to figure out how people are surviving in Dublin or getting on the property ladder and making ends meet, it’s incredibly expensive, we can live on much less and have a much more comfortable lifestyle. There is a growing movement in Ireland in the last few years of chasing the zeros in salaries but it’s all so they can live in a certain place but to me it’s unsustainable but we’re lucky that we fell into the way of thinking of having to take a step back and look at everything, our cost of living and we were lucky that I’m from the area and we could move back to set our roots here, it isn’t something we actively thought of setting a model for people to move back but hopefully it’s something people will consider over the next couple of years and towns like Kilrush, Ennistymon, Scariff and Newmarket-on-Fergus are viable places to come back and start a family”.

uniquely inspiring gifts for those hard to buy for people treat yourself | treat someone special No.2 Frances Street, Kilrush, Clare 0659051832

wildatlanticliving.ie wildatlanticopticians.ie

24 KILRUSH

‘Staying in West Clare the best decision I’ve ever made’ PÁRAIC McMAHON

l LEGACY: Pictured left is Patrick Bourke and Sean Dunleavy for the celebration of 90 years in business

news@clareecho.ie

I

N the past nine decades, Kilrush has seen businesses open and close, recessions come and go, speed limits go up and down but it fits the narrative of the market town having something special according to Patrick Bourke.

Bourke’s Menswear in their ninety one years at Kilrush and twenty five in Ennis have shaped and tailored many special days for the people of the county and beyond.

Patrick joined the family business in 1974 creating the third generation layer to it’s history, changes down through the years can be equated to the varying situation at Moneypoint.

“I’ve seen many changes over the year from it being the typical rural town then becoming industrialised with Moneypoint and the maturity of Moneypoint and now the cutbacks in Moneypoint will bring changes again. It was predominantly a farming background to the business in town over the years and that changed a little bit, working people became more prevalent and on top of that tourism has improved so it had huge strings to its bow over the last

couple of years.

Through the recession things ebbed and

flowed but they’ve been coming on very strong in the last two to three years so with a bit of luck that strength will continue”.

West Coast Aqua Park in his view has provided a lift for the area and he’s amazed with the level of work done by the Kilrush Tidy Towns annually. For Kilrush businesses, Bourke maintained the summer season in Kilkee and ferry traffic are priceless. “As the ferry traffic passes through it or the people from Kilkee come down shopping that gives it a twin spike, it gives it a spike in the summer time and then there is a local spike at Christmas. If you look at a lot of the towns, they don’t have one or the other or any of those spikes. That in itself is helping Kilrush massively.

A lot of business people in the town don’t realise that. We have customers in the shop that come in year in year out to us because they know we have value in the summer time for the sale, if there’s a wet day in Kilkee ‘what will I do I’ll go down shopping to Bourke’s, I’ll buy a pair of trousers or shoes’, we make it attractive enough in terms of price that they find it hard to resist not buying, you have to tempt them into it”.

Appreciating the offering of West Clare is nothing new for the former Kilrush Community School pupil, of the fifty five students that graduated from his year, he was one of seven that opted to stay in this part of the county. “As a young fella I probably didn’t realise what was keeping me in West Clare, the family business was one thing, I always had an interest in that, I’m behind the counter since I was seven years old so that’s a total of fifty five years now. As the years went by and you began to appreciate what we had, I realised it was the best decision I could

have ever made, we had everything going well for us in West Clare, the education system was good, the farming community was doing well, we didn’t have crime, drugs or anything like that on the go at the time, on the overall scheme of things West Clare is a very good place to live and set up a business or family,” he told The Clare Echo.

Married to Imelda who herself runs The Pantry in Kilkee, the couple employ fifty people between them. His time in business has been a roller-coaster as they successfully dealt with every setback that came their way. “I’ve seen three recessions in my business lifetime, we were in the middle of one when I left school in the 70s, emigration was rife and industrialisation in West Clare was non-existent, farming was only beginning to spring to life. Then we had one in the mid to late 80s, because Moneypoint was in full swing at that time that definitely cushioned us from that blow. The last one from 2007 until 2013 that hit West Clare badly that particular one, it hit farming and businesses badly, I think what maybe saved a lot of businesses is they were family owned and family run and were able to withstand the crash”.

Through this, Bourke and his team have still managed to carve out unique ideas for a clothing store including the release of a documentary, barbers in the basement and the world sliotar challenge. These campaigns differ on whether they were moments of inspiration or madness, the challenge stemming from Clare’s 2013 success when he placed an order for 4,000 sliotars with the expectation further All-Ireland glory would follow, it never did and led to the creation of a social media competition which saw their brand photographed at some of the world’s most iconic sights.

Such ideas are among the reasons why the received a Retail Excellence Award in October.

While Bourke’s Menswear have made men of the county look their best on big days, West Clare has helped make Patrick the successful businessman that he is.

Though he recommended setting up shop in Kilrush in 2019, previous experience is a must-have. “Working for somebody and working for yourself are entirely different things. You’re talking about Premier League to Europa League, a different skill completely.

When you’re working for yourself you have to put in a lot of extra time and effort which some people don’t realise, you never sleep being your own boss. When you wake at 5 in the morning something comes into your head, when you go into bed at 11pm something goes into your head about the business about the day gone by or the following day. The complexities of business aren’t as simple as they used to be”.

26 COMMUNITY

Community ENNIS

CLARE YOUTH SERVICE BENIFIT VITALOGRAPH DONATION CEO Frank Keane presented a cheque to Margaret Slattery, CEO of Clare Youth Service and her team this week in Ennis towards their ongoing work within the community.

Vitalograph (Ire) Ltd. has been in Ennis for over 35 years, employing more than 170 people locally. All Global Manufacturing, R&D and Marketing of specialised medical devices for respiratory care in the healthcare and clinical trials sector is done from the company’s Irish facility in Ennis. Vitalograph’s CEO Frank Keane was delighted to be able to support Clare Youth Services as their ongoing work make real differences to the lives of the young people they serve in the local community.

CHARITY COFFEE MORNING The Irish Wheelchair Association is holding a charity coffee morning on Saturday August 3 at their centre on Francis Street in Ennis from 10.30am to 1pm. All raffle prizes are donated from shops and businesses in Ennis and surrounding areas. The coffee and treats are sponsored by ANAM coffee, Kilfenora and Sweet n Green Cafe, Ennis. There will be a flash sale in the Charity Shop, with everything going for €1 during the coffee morning.

ENNIS TRIO ON THE BALL AT LEE’S ROAD Tom, Brian and Patrick McDonagh at the Clare Primary Health Project’s football event at Lee’s Road earlier this week. This Clare Local Development Company project promotes healthy living in the community.

THURSDAY, AUG 1 2019

CONTACT NEWSDESK

065 671 9021 news@clareecho.ie

GORT

AN AFTERNOON AT FR TED’S IN memory of James Howard, and in aid of Galway Hospice, a fabulous family fun day for a wonderful cause will take place on Sunday, August 4, from 2pm.

A Tractor Run and Vintage Car run starts at 2pm from Fr Ted’s House, Glenquin, Kilnaboy, while registration takes place at 1pm. The run will be followed by a family fun day to conclude at 6pm.

There will be music by legendary flute player Christy Barry and friends, machinery exhibitions (vintage and Hi-tec), ground exhibition from Paramotoring Ireland and spectacular fly on the day (weather Permitting). This along with face painting, a raffle with lots of prizes, refreshments and lots more surprises on the day.

James Howard’s family told The Clare Echo, “Many of you know our reasons for supporting this cause. We lost a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend this year and the care, compassion and support from this facility was out of this world. We are eternally grateful that James and his family could avail of the services that they provide.

“Galway Hospice provides specialist palliative care services to adults and children with cancer and other life-limiting illnesses. They provide a range of services which include their 18-bed Inpatient Unit and Day Care Facility in Renmore, Galway and also Community Palliative Care across Galway/ Clare and other counties. They also support families of patients with a life limiting illness and provide bereavement support after the death of a loved one.

“They have to raise €5,000 a day to continue to provide their current services which is equivalent to €2.1 million each year. Hospice care is provided free-of-charge to those who need it, for as long as it is needed. Someday, someone you know may need their services. Others need them today. On behalf of the patients and families that turn to Galway Hospice in their time of need, thank you for supporting this event.”

For any queries about the event, please call 085 814 4729.

DOONBEG DOONBEG STUDIO WORKS EXHIBITED AT CULTÚRLANN SWEENEY Works produced in a Doonbeg art studio will go on display at Cultúrlann Sweeney in Kilkee from August 5-30. Living on the Wild Side is the first solo exhibition by Gene Clohessy, a visual artist

from Limerick who has been living in Doonbeg for the last ten years.

From her studio Gene runs workshops both for groups and on a one to one basis. Her skills are broad and she works in a variety of fine art and craft mediums, including needle felting, photography, card making, jewellery and more recently painting. The show is open to all.

THURSDAY, AUG 1 2019

OUT & ABOUT 27

AL HAYES THROWS RING OF CLARE PASTA PARTY

l READY FOR ROAD: At the launch of the SKODA Ring Of Clare cycle last Friday evening are (clockwise from top) the Al Hayes Motors team in Ennis, Damian Hayes, Orla O’Brien, Noreen Hayes, Al Hayes, Ronan Hayes, event organisers for Skoda Ian Falconer, Mark O’Connell; Skoda team members Mark Foley, Sean Bean and Niamh Duffy; Agnes and Tom Longford at registration; Paul and James McDonald from Cavan with Cathal Brodie, Ennis; Mike Carmody and Ann Norton; preparations in full flow ahead of the event which welcomed 2,500 participants All photos by John Mangan

28 HISTORY

REELING IN THE YEARS

with Cian O’Broin

THURSDAY, AUG 1 2019

Miriam O’Donohoe Join Miriam on her history tours to hidden locations of Clare

1989 H T cianobroin@clareecho.ie

Daylight robbery at our thatched cottages...

HIS year we once again take to the rich landscape of the Burren and look at what lays buried deep beneath the surface. We also relive the memory of one of the last great characters to come out of County Clare and see what truly made him great, despite the obstacles that stood in his way. Let’s dive right in...

THE AILLWEE CAVES

In 1989, RTE broadcast a documentary series entitled ‘Jo Maxi’, which looked at the sport of cave exploration within the Aillwee Caves. Considered a niche interest at the time, the reporter found it difficult to fathom the sense of fulfilment sought in navigating an intricate network of underground tunnels. Informative as ever, the host reiterated the importance of taking the necessary safety precautions when exploring caves such as those found in the Burren Landscape.

The hysteria surrounding the Aillwee Caves was fresh at the time, with the park officially opening to the public in 1976. The cave itself is rich in history as well as having maintained a fascinating geological structure over the past 35,000 years. The tunnel itself stretches over a kilometre long and contains an underground river and waterfall. Like many great discoveries relating to mother nature in all her magnificence, the Aillwee Caves were uncovered by chance. In 1944, local farmer Jack Mc Gann was taking his dog for a quiet stroll in the Burren region. After the relentless pursuit of a nearby rabbit, Jack and his dog came upon the entrance to the cave. Interesting, thought Jack as he decided to push the notion of the Aillwee Caves into the back of his mind for the next three decades. In 1973, Jack decided to inform local cavers of a potential point of interest in the vicinity. Three years later, archaeologists discovered the remains of a brown bear dating back 10,000 years. Only 1,000 people inhabited Ireland at this time. Historians debate the contention of the Aillwee Caves serving as the last great bear den on the island.

THE GREAT MICHAEL TIERNEY

Over the years, small towns in Ireland had the potential to sprout out true characters. Today, they are a rarity. Few individuals really caught hold of the public heart like the great Michael Tierney did.

Michael is engrained in the history and folklore of Ennis as much as any man worth their mirth, down through the ages. Outwardly flamboyant and unapologetic, Michael flaunted his homosexuality in a time of great suppression in Ireland. Michael was certainly a man before his time, an honest beaming light that was truly at peace with his own sense of individuality. Unfortunately, there are very few videos of Michael in his element making his way around town. One YouTube clip taken on the 17th July 1989, shows Michael on his customary paper round down through O’ Connell street, laughing and joking with locals on his way. Michael was a standout figure amongst the masses, unmistakeable with his make-up, flashy jewellery and large collection of wigs. He wore a different colour wig each day of the week.

The people of Clare had a soft spot for Michael Tierney, with hundreds making their way into Ennis from the surrounding countryside to purchase newspapers from him and only him. Michael was born in 1917 and lost his father to the First World War before he was born. Michael’s increased flamboyancy became apparent from the 1950s onwards at a time when homosexuality was forced to steer clear of the watchful eye of the public. In spite of this, Michael was wholeheartedly accepted by the people of Clare. Teenage taunts and homophobic gestures were shielded from Michael by the business community of Ennis. Michael thwarted these harmful efforts through his amazing sense of humour and indifference. Michael was renowned for taking people on mystery tours around Ennis and held great compassion for the elderly community of Clare.

Sadly, Michael passed away in 1998 with one of the largest funerals ever seen in the town of Ennis. A collective effort amongst individuals in Ennis hopes to erect a statue in the town of Michael and his dog, Paddy. The motion has previously been rejected by Clare Councillors but there is still hope.

Pick up your copy of The Clare Echo next week as we begin our journey through the beloved 1990’s. Until then, take care.

I ALL,

You may remember, on my last post, I described a cluster of picturesque little thatched cottages with dazzling white walls which i spotted on the hillside of Clifden, near Corofin[R476] curious to learn more, I took a trip to see an old friend called Mickileen who described the cottages like these in Clifden as being familiar features of the local landscape, former homes of small farmer labourers who unfortunately had to vacate their homes due to personal circumstances. I then asked Mickileen what life was like living in those small cottages back then ? They were tough times right enough, came the reply.

These homes were built by hand with stone which was obtained locally (there was no shortage of stone in these parts you know!) as the only transport back then was donkey/horse and cart. In the 1700s these cottages wouldn’t have any foundation, however in later years trenches were dug and filled with stone clay and mud which served as a starting point. They were based on a simple rectangular plan the stones being placed together, then covered with a mud plaster before being whitewashed. As regards the roof, well, it all depended on the length of timbers available for rafters. That’s what determined the width of the house, and once again the materials used in the thatching of the roof were obtained locally.

They sometimes differed a little depending on the locality, but always reflected the environment of where they were built, more often than not it was straw that was used in these parts, however sometimes sods of turf were set beneath the thatch so as to form a layer of insulation. Eventhough there were many commonalities in design, they varied somewhat as regards the positioning of windows and doors which were very small, generally two at either side and sometimes one on the gable plus a half door, and in some houses a back door which normally faced south so as to combat prevailing the northern winds, another reason for the half door was that it acted as an open air window, and a sign of

welcome. It also served to keep the children in and animals out, or in some cases, Mick laughed, the reverse. But above all else was the ridiculous tax which was demanded by the British government (1799/1851) whereby any house having more than six openings was taxed [six pence/ half a shilling]. Since the doors were not taxed they acted as big windows - this also helped to circulate air through the house as respiratory problems relating to poor quality air became rampant across Ireland, resulting in many deaths. Consequently this tariff became known as ‘Typhus Tax’ - and that’s where the term ‘daylight robbery’ came from.

The burning of turf in the big open fire, while it might look lovely, it often filled the house with smoke, nevertheless it was a always focal point for social gatherings, and it was never allowed to go out, even at night ashes were raked over it so as to keep the embers red for the morning.

Behind this usually stood another fireplace in a room called the parlour/good room, seldom used by the family, but having said that, it was always kept immaculate for fear of visiting dignitaries. The opposite wall from the hearth generally consisted of two bedrooms and the space over these rooms was also utilised as a sleeping area called the loft which was accessed by use of a ladder.

It was not unusual to have six / seven children living and sharing with farm animals (or worse still, a mother in law!). Not the cosy romantic picture you envisioned, is it ! ? Mick remarked, They had no running water or electricity back then, as the water was usually drawn from a nearby well, or else rainwater was collected in a barrel at the gable

of the house. The light was from an oil lamp or candles.

The sad aspect of it all was that eventhough they built these cottages with their own hands, more often than not they didn’t actually own the land on which they were built. They were allocated an acre or two near the house where they grew crops, nothing elaborate, potatoes being the main crop and had a cow or two which provided milk for the house. Rent had to be paid to a landlord and tenants often paid this by working in the fields. If work was short in supply or the harvest bad, the tenants were at the mercy of the landlords, and evictions became commonplace resulting in many Irish families emigrating therefore the emergence in rural depopulation [eviction cottages 1886] which caused a significant change to the Irish landscape as the number of thatched cottages declined and also did the total of thatchers.

Thatching is now as it was back then, a craft, hard to come by, nevertheless appreciated by all. It is a valuable part of our historical heritage and a powerful representation of Ireland for many who have emigrated, therefore credit must be given to people who restore these little gems as they allow us to step back in time. If only for a while.

As usual it was lovely to talk to Mick, always up for a chat and better still he has all the local information, well worth the trip.

Once again, thank you for being part of my journey and I do hope you will be able to join me next time.

Until then so , bye for now. PS. As with all historical sites, take nothing but memories, leave nothing but footsteps.

BUSINESS 29

THURSDAY, AUG 1 2019

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Celebrations for Clare Centra stores

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HERE were celebrations all round for 12 Centra stores in Clare, as they were recognised for excellence in the fields of hygiene and food safety, and graciously accepted distinguished awards at the 2019 Centra Food Quality Awards.

The setting for this prestigious awards ceremony was the Great Southern Hotel, Killarney, and during the course of the event the Excellence Ireland Quality Association presented a number of Clare Centra stores, five to be precise, with the coveted Q Mark Level 3 Emerald Award. The purpose of this award is to acknowledge the on-going dedication from stores to demonstrate exemplary standards of store cleanliness and hygiene. The winning Clare Centra stores were chosen in recognition of their ongoing hard work and commitment in these areas and achieved a score of between 75 and 100% in this independent assessment. Winning stores displayed a comprehensive understanding of the importance of providing the best service for their customers, as well as ensuring that quality, hygiene and food safety are continually prioritised by their team of staff.

The five Clare winners of the Q Mark for Hygiene & Food Safety Level 3 Emerald Award, which signifies supreme performance were: Donnellan’s Centra, Loughville; Rodgers’ Centra, Scarriff; O’ Flynn’s Centra, Sixmilebridge; Ryan’s Centra, Clonroadmore Ennis; and Deasy’s Centra, Clarecastle Also celebrating on the night were a further seven Clare Centra stores, as they too were awarded for their commitment to health and safety within the Irish food sector, scoring between 60 and 74%. These businesses were presented with the Q Mark for Hygiene & Food Safety Level 2 Sapphire Award, which also independently verifies and acknowledges that the highest standards of operational hygiene and food safety were in practice that year in all areas of the selected convenience store.

The seven Clare stores that proudly accepted this Q Mark Level 2 Sapphire Award were: Lynch’s Centra, Ennis; Johnston’s Centra, Kilmihil; Minihane’s Centra, Corofin; Kennedy’s Centra, Lahinch; Lynch’s Centra, Ennis; Michael’s Centra, Kildysert.

l ALL SMILES: Daniel and Barry Lynch of Lynch’s Centra, Ennis

l FRONT OF THE Q: Joe and Pamela Deasy of Centra in Clarecastle

l GIRL POWER: Edwina & Joan Donnellan, Ewlina Prochniak & Marlena Morasiewicz of Donnellan’s Loughville in Ennis

l PROUD: Paul and Kay Ryan of Ryan’s Centra, Ennis

l TOP MARKS: Corofin’s Colin Raftery

l MARK OF EXCELLENCE: Nora and Andrew Johnston, who run Centra in Kilmihil

Property

Beautiful homes all over the County

4 25 ROCKMOUNT MANOR, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

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3 OPEN VIEWING: SAT. 3RD AUGUST, 11.00AM-11.45AM

€450,000

HE final stage of the very popular Rockmount Manor estate is now being released. Rockmount Manor is a development of detached properties, located off the main Kilrush Road. The development comprises all detached, timber framed homes; with plenty open plan green areas. No.25 is located on a large site to the rear of the Development and is newly constructed. The ground floor accommodation is very well laid out with two bright spacious light filled reception rooms, a very spacious open plan kitchen/ dining / sunroom, utility room, study and WC. The first floor has four double bedrooms, two of which are ensuite and a family bathroom. No 25 has an A BER Rating making it an extremely energy efficient family home. There are generous PC sums to finish the property off to the client’s unique taste. Viewing highly recommended.

Contact: Helen Gallery, 68 Parnell Street, Ennis.

Tel: 065 6829481 & 086 250 4671 PSL 00243

109 MOORE BAY, KILKEE, CO. CLARE

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HIS attractive three bedroomed home is ideally located on the Carrigaholt Road on the outskirts of popular seaside town of Kilkee. The property is within walking distance of Kilkee town which has many fine services and amenities at its doorstep.

Kilkee attractions include its award winning horseshoe shaped blue flag beach, Water world, golf, fishing, etc.

The property is a semi -detached property located on the main Carrigaholt Road to the front of Moore Bay and has no management charges associated with it. The dwelling is in excellent condition throughout and offers bright, spacious accommodation including three bedrooms, one en-suite and a bathroom. The holiday home development of Moore Bay offers tennis courts, basketball courts and a children’s playground as well as open green area for all residents.

Contact: Helen Gallery, 68 Parnell Street, Ennis.

Tel: 065 6829481 & 086 250 4671 PSL 00243

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€275,000

Contact: Helen Gallery, 68 Parnell Street, Ennis.

Tel: 065 6829481 & 086 250 4671 PSL 00243

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OCATION Location are delighted to present this contemporary property to the market, this home offers stylish and modern living quarters and presents an ideal opportunity for anyone seeking a home or investment property.

No. 1 Suan in Quin Village is a three bedroom family home that is presented for sale in impeccable condition. Upon entering viewers will be instantly impressed by the superb finish which includes marble flooring, modern open plan fitted kitchen, solid wood flooring, solid fuel stove, 9ft ceilings & a non overlooked patio to rear.

Contact: Location Location, Unit 2, Summerhill, Market Place, Ennis Tel: 065 68 23718 PSL 003928

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OPEN VIEWING: THURSDAY 1ST 5PM TO 5.30PM SATURDAY 3RD AUGUST. 1PM TO 1.30PM

71 TURNPIKE ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

€450,000

HIS superior architect designed home, built in 2000 is nestled in the woods on a mature c.0.5 acre landscaped, private site in the popular exclusive Silvergrove development in Ballybeg within minutes walk of the Ballybeg woods.

No 21 is an exquisite detached family home is beautifully finished to show house standards. The house has been beautifully maintained to provide light filled accommodation including two well proportioned reception rooms to the front, open plan kitchen/ dining / sunroom to the rear. The utility and downstairs WC completes the ground floor accommodation. The first floor comprises of spacious landing area, four bedrooms (one current used as dressing room) en-suite shower room and a family bathroom. This is indeed a unique opportunity to acquire a most impressive family home in a much sought after area. Viewing highly recommended by appointment only.

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OPEN VIEWING: SATURDAY: 3RD AUGUST. 2.30PM TO 3 PM

71 TURNPIKE ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

€135,000

21 SILVERGROVE, BALLYBEG, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

€160,000

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OCATION Location are delighted to present 71 Turnpike to the market sitting on a large corner plot extending to apporx 1 Acre (398 sqm) providing ample opportunity to further develop (spp).

This particular property boasts four double bedrooms, two ground floor reception rooms, kitchen and utility as well as having one bathroom a detached garage with rear entrance on one of the largest sites on turnpike Road. This home presents an ideal opportunity for anyone seeking a home or investment property within a short walk of town centre.

Contact: Location Location, Unit 2, Summerhill, Market Place, Ennis Tel: 065 68 23718 PSL 003928

OPEN VIEWING: SATURDAY 3RD AUGUST. 12PM TO 12.30PM

1 SUAN, QUIN, CO. CLARE.

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€199,000

OCATION Location are delighted to present this contemporary property to the market, this home offers stylish and modern living quarters and presents an ideal opportunity for anyone seeking a home or investment property.

No. 1 Suan in Quin Village is a three bedroom family home that is presented for sale in impeccable condition. Upon entering viewers will be instantly impressed by the superb finish which includes marble flooring, modern open plan fitted kitchen, solid wood flooring, solid fuel stove, 9ft ceilings & a non overlooked patio to rear. Comprising of an entrance hall, open plan kitchen/ dining area with french doors to patio & double doors to a large livingroom.

Contact: Location Location, Unit 2, Summerhill, Market Place, Ennis Tel: 065 68 23718 PSL 003928

32

What a difference a year makes

PROPERTY

THURSDAY, AUG 1 2019

Keogh Homes prepare for Phase 3 of turn-key development

CIAN O’BROIN cianobroin@clareecho.ie

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URCHASERS at Sycamore Drive are excited as the time comes to move into their three-bedroom semi-detached houses as developers prepare phase three, tells Patrick Keogh of Keogh Homes. The project spearheaded by Patrick in conjunction with selling agents DNG O’ Sullivan Hurley looks to accommodate new families wishing to embrace sustainable living in a central location near Ennis.

The HTB scheme allows first time buyers to receive a tax rebate of up to €20,000

when purchasing from a qualified contractor. Patrick mentions the excitement of the young couples at Sycamore Drive and the importance of government funding available to first time buyers.

“Eight out of the ten houses purchased in phase one are first time buyers. Two of them are young married couples. Eighty percent of the houses are in accordance with the Help To Buy Scheme, which tells us that the scheme is really effective. There’s been talk in the media that it could be cut short which would undoubtedly have a detrimental effect on our business and a lot of other developers around.”

Patrick understands the financial pressure placed on first time buyers, which led to the decision to develop modern, turnkey houses. “It’s very difficult for first time

l PHASE 3: Aerial shot of the Sycamore Drive development in the much sought-after suburb on the Limerick Road in Ennis

buyers to have surplus money left over after dealing with the bank. What’s included in the price is finished flooring, tiling as well as kitchen appliances. “Sycamore Drive’s appeal lies in, “the comfort of its kitchens and the energy efficiency of the houses, with a heat pump system, concrete floors upstairs and under floor heating. The setting of the houses as well, it’s a nice secluded site. It’s compact and it’s close to the motorways and local schools.”

Most importantly, the site breathes sustainability and eco-friendly sentiments.

With new regulations put in place in the Climate Action Plan, both contractors and buyers “are becoming more conscious of their carbon footprint. We have electric car charging points in each house. We are trying to pre-empt the direction cost savings and lifestyle changes are moving in.

Building regulations and fire regulations are changing constantly. We base our decisions on these and it’s certainly good for everybody.”

The project has transitioned smoothly into the second phase which Patrick hopes to have completed in January. Construction of phase three is set to commence in September of this year. “Deadlines in the construction industry are very important.

People want to move into their houses, they are renting somewhere else. There’s a lot of moving parts for those deadlines to all work out. There was a lot of extra work to do in phase one to future proof for phase two and three. We started the site this time last year. If you were to see a green field site last year and say there would be twenty-two houses with roofs on now, it’s definitely good work.”

Patrick lauds the helping hand of modern technology, with his new website Keoghhomes.ie demonstrating new virtual reality tour which will be available to those perusing the marketplace. “In a couple of weeks’ time we will have set up in our show-

room a virtual reality headset and people will be able to walk through the virtual showhouse. We are looking at bringing this new technology into the way we sell our homes.”

“Phase One launched at the end of Aug last year and prices for a 3 bedroom were €260,000 and a four bed was €300,000.

Due to the stylish interiors and unparalleled building finish delivered by Keogh Homes we have seen a massive demand for these turn key homes.

A year on we are preparing to hand over Phase One with Phase Two set for completion in January 2020.

Homes in Phase Two launched at €270,000 for a 3 bed and €310,000 for a four bed. We have only one home remaining in Phase Two and phase three is now on sale with prices starting at €266,000 for a 3 bedroom semi detached with no attic conversion option.” - Catherine Murphy, DNG O’Sullivan Hurley

Please register your interest at www.sycamoredrive.ie or call the sole selling agents DNG O’Sullivan Hurley on 065 6840200 for more information.

l AMAZING INTERIOR: (left) A look inside the kitchen of Sycamore Drive house. (right) The brand new modern exterior finish

Photo by john mangan

SPORT 35

THURSDAY, JUN 13 2019

Sacrifice the name of the game for ace Róisín with PÁRAIC McMAHON

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NE of the county’s most promising sports stars may see her progress impeded by the finances required to compete at the highest level of tennis.

Róisín Moore from Ennis is currently ranked ninth in Ireland for U16s and second in Munster for the same age-group. Just last week, she won the U16 Singles Title in the Connacht Junior Open and prior to that made the semi-finals of the adult Senior South of Ireland Ladies Singles, Doubles and Mixed Doubles all of which are premier competitions where she faced off with Fed Cup player, Aoife O’Neill and took her to three sets.

To date, the sixteen year old has contested 69 finals, winning 47 but it is the 22 outings in which she fell short that have improved her the most.

“I like to win but obviously losing is a big part of it and you learn more when you lose.

It’s important to lose because sometimes when you win you don’t think about what you need to work on for the next matches. When you lose, you know there is a reason why you lost. When you break it down, you figure out what needs to improve for you to go forward and do better in the future,” Róisín tells The Clare Echo.

For the past three years, Róisín has won the Limerick Senior Open becoming the youngest victor of the premier category at the age of fourteen, taking on older competitors was an experience she relished.

She explains, “They play so different to junior players, junior tennis is much faster and there is a lot more power whereas in senior they have a lot more variety so it takes getting used to but it’s nice to play different players and grades”.

Each June as Wimbledon hits television screens, the rackets come out in various locations across Ireland but noticeably year on year is this country’s absence in Major tournaments. Limerick man Conor Niland was in the main draw of SW19 back in 2011 when he reached the main draw where he was beaten

by France’s Adrian Mannarino, world no 55 at the time, in an epic match 4-6, 6-4, 7-6 (97), 4-6, 6-4. Before that Matt Doyle in 1984 and Sean Sorensen in 1980 were the last Irish connections to represent the green and gold at Wimbledon. Nineteen year old Georgia Drummy won her maiden title in Amarante, Portugal in June and is hopeful of climbing the ranks, however Róisín outlined why she felt Ireland is struggling to make inroads on the courts.

“We need better training facilities because of a lot of the good Irish players move abroad and they go to a training centre which are extremely expensive and they drop out of

This week, as part of our 20x20 series we speak to promising tennis starlet Róisín Moore, an Ennis Tennis Club product who spends up to 20 hours a week training in pursuit of success

l BIG HITTER: Roisin Moore pictured at Ennis Tennis Club this week. Róisín is the second ranked player in Munster in her age group

Photo by John Mangan

school and do their schooling there.

“There’s none of those available in Ireland, only DCU and even at that, they produce good players but they are never the best, when they compete in European Tournaments they never do well in them, the standard is so much higher”.

As no girls her age play tennis in Ennis, Róisín trains alongside men when in Clare while also being a member of Limerick Lawn, Naas and Glenageary where more girls are present.

The Colaiste Muire student would spend between sixteen to twenty hours on tennis each week with two weekly half hour one on one sessions done at Hustle Fitness, while time with friends is surrendered for the hours devoted to the sport, “It’s worth it when you win”.

Her time is not the only sacrifice as either of her parents Brian or Marie transport her to and from events.

“The facilities really aren’t here in Clare or Munster, indoor training facilities with

performance squads. For her to train, the Munster Performance Squad is in Cork in Rushmore, it’s a five hour round trip for a two to three hour session, that’s your whole day gone. The people making it in the sport are going to Dublin and getting involved in Tennis Ireland,” Brian commented.

Of the prospect of competing in Majors, Róisín revealed, “I’d like to but I’d also like to excel academically”. In September she will start fifth year and at the minute, pharmacy or primary school teaching are her main targets post Leaving Certificate.

“Whenever I go to study I do it much faster because I’m more focused, I don’t have that much time to study so when I do I really focus on it”.

“She has a talent which is standing to her and a quiet drive,” Brian remarked - however a hurdle in getting to the next level for the Knockanean NS past pupil is finance.

“The only one thing that could make a difference is a bit of sponsorship to get more advanced coaching, for the level she is at it’s a level three coach that’s needed, on average in Dublin it’s €100 an hour and you have to get her there”.

A scholarship abroad would assist in securing better coaching but does not include a third level qualification which she is determined to get.

Brian explains, “In fairness to Róisín she is really isolated here, to have done so well with limited resource, to get the coaching that she requires at a performance level means a commute of two and a half to three hours for a one hour lesson, it adds up. You can’t get back those hours in the car”.

He added, “I hate to say it but it’s still a very elitist sport and that’s one of the barriers that I don’t believe needs to be there, that’s what’s happening in Clare, Limerick and Munster, if you have money you will get on”.

The aforementioned Conor Niland recently said, “It’s too difficult to stay in Ireland and make it in tennis.”

Not alone is she clocking up aces on the tennis court, Róisín has recently returned from Madrid as part of a training camp done with the Irish U19 volleyball squad. She is keen to continue playing both sports for as long as possible.

Over the summer holidays her focus is on the U18 intervals and the FitzWilliam Open in Dublin - “it’s kind of like the Wimbledon of Ireland and I’d really like to do as well as I can in that”.

Though the ball may be in Róisín’s court with regards to the short-term, her longterm progress appears that it will be decided by location and finance, one would hope such factors do not result in players with a talent deciding to call game, set and match.

SPORT

THURSDAY, AUG 1 2019

Clare Juniors secure All Ireland semi spot PÁRAIC McMAHON

Clare 4-18 Tyrone 1-08

Venue: Edendork, St Malachy’s GAA LARE’S Junior camogie side have booked their place in the All-Ireland semi-finals following a comprehensive win over Tyrone.

Two wins from their three group games has secured Clare’s place in the last four of the All-Ireland Junior Camogie Championship. Not alone have the Banner picked up two wins on the road but they have clocked up considerable miles in doing so, travelling to Northern Ireland twice in the space of a week overcoming Armagh and Tyrone.

From the start, Clare put their noses in front and this remained the case for the duration of the contest. They held Tyrone scoreless for the first ten minutes and denied everyone bar Roisin McErlean scores.

Feakle’s Regan Conway teed up Sinead O’Keeffe for the opening goal on eighteen minutes creating a five point advantage.

At the other end, McErlean was accurate from placed balls to keep the hosts in contention and as half-time dawned the difference was four points.

A strong second half followed from Clare who limited Declan Sherlock’s Tyrone to just 1-02 in the second half while amassing a tally of 3-11 themselves, two green

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flags coming courtesy of substitute Aoife Shannon.

Since their July 6th one point home defeat to Roscommon, the girls in saffron and blue managed by Ann Marie McGann and Tim McGrath have responded superbly recording victories over Armagh and Tyrone with eight and nineteen point winning margins respectively.

l PROUD MOMENT: Sean Desmond celebrates on the 18th green with his mother Fionnuala as he beat Keith Egan the Final of The South of Ireland Championships played in Lahinch Golf Club, Clare last Sunday evening

Photo by Brian Arthur

Scorers Clare: R Conway (0-09 1f), S O’Keeffe (2-03), A Shannon (2-00), S Power (003), L McDonnell (0-01), K O’Gorman (0-01), A Cahill (0-01).

Scorers Tyrone: R McErlean (1-08 4f), Clare:16: Niamh Lyons (Ruan); 3: Rebecca Crowe (Ruan); 20: Rebecca Cahill (Kilmaley); 4: Orlaith Cotter (Inagh/Kilnamona); 5: Niamh Mulqueen (Broadford); 6: Orla Moloney (St Josephs Doora/Barefield); 7: Corina McMahon (Corofin); 8: Kate O’Gorman (Kilkishen) - Capt; 9: Ciara Halpin (Clooney/Quin); 10: Regan Conway (Feakle); 11: Aisling Cahill (Kilmaley); 12: Sinead Power (Inagh/Kilnamona); 13: Louise McDonnell (Ruan); 14: Sinead O’Keeffe (Kilmaley); 15: Claire McDonnell (Ruan) Subs: Aoife Shannon (Doora/Barefield) for C McDonnell; Siobhan Lenihan (Kilkishen) for Halpin; Louise Browne (Corofin) for A Cahill; Dawn Ryan (Wolfe Tones) for Crowe; Jane Fitzgerald (Inagh/Kilnamona) for R Cahill Referee: Alan Lagrue (Kildare)

Aye, aye, captain...

The Scorecard in association with

ENNIS GOLF CLUB Ladies 4 Ball Better Ball S/Ford: 1ST Frances Bergin (31) & Joan Murphy (26) 40pts 2ND Attracta Williams (31) & Ethna Murphy (27) 40pts 3RD Ann O’Loughlin (12) & Anne Casey (20) 39pts 4TH Jean Moloney (19) & Maura Ryan (20) 38pts 9 Hole Competition: 1ST Hilary Hannon (38) 20pts 2ND Anna Glynn (23) 18pts Seniors 1ST Eileen Corry (T), Mary McMahon & Patricia O’Donnell 42pts 2ND Noreen Farelly, Margaret Flanagan & Mary Leahy 37pts 3RD Rita O’Brien, Mary Woulfe & Ann Daly 36pts 4TH Kathleen Pyne, Deirdre Molyneaux & Bernie Brooks 35pts KILRUSH GOLF CLUB Sun 28 July Moyasta Coffee Men’s Singles 1 Pat Murtagh (16) 40 pts (Back 9) 2 Ger Ryan (13) 40 pts 3 Declan O Donovan (8) 39 pts Sat 27 July Lady Captain’s 14 Hole Prize to Men 1 Jim Young (9) 33 pts 2 Jason Hanrahan (19) 32 pts (Back 9) 3 Ger Brennan (16) 32 pts Sat 27 July Ladies Captains Prize Mrs M G Nolan

l PUTTING THEIR BEST FOOT FORWARD: Winner of the Lady Captains Prize 2019, Kilrush, Clare Pyne, receiving her prize from Mary G. Nolan (Lady Captain)

1 Claire Pyne (21) 67 Back 9 2 Joan O’Malley (20) 67 Back 9 BEST GROSS Niamh Whelan (9) 77 3 Margaret Donnelly (17) 67 4 Stephanie Roughan (30) 68 Back 9 5 Amy O’Shea (16) 68 Back 9 FRONT NINE Freda Moran (33) 29.5 BACK NINE A M Donnellan (16) 34 Back 6 PAST CAPTAIN Margaret Hehir (20) 70 COMMITTEE Mary Keating (29) 70 Sat 27 July Ladies Captain’s 9 Hole 1 Mary McCarthy (29) 18 pts 2 Ann McMahon (36) 11 pts Thu 25 July Bi Bi’s Fashions Ladies’ Singles 1 Miriam Saunders (24) 41 pts 2 Margaret Donnelly (18) 39 pts 3 Mary G Nolan (19) 38 pts 4 Jean Lorigan (32) 28 pts CAT 1 Anne Brennan (12) 36 pts CAT 2 Mary Young (22) 35 pts CAT 3 Mary Collins (37) 30 pts Back 9 Fri 26 July Friday Mixed Team 1 Michael Shannon, C O’Grady & Mark Shannon 34.22 2 M Bartlett, Pat Donnelan & M Bolton 35.51 3 Mary Lyons, Murt Collins, G O’Malley & J Hehir 34.22 The Hartman Cups Mixed Foursomes Matchplay 1 Pat & Agnes Shannon 2 Jim & Mary Young

Kilrush Golf Club Open Week August 1 -August 11

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36 www.clareecho.ie

THURSDAY, AUG 1 2019

Classifieds ACCOUNTANCY

CAR REPAIRS

CLEANING

FOR SALE Good quality topsoil for sale in Ennis area Contact 087-6723362

MUSIC

CARS

CLEANING

Keyboard Player needs guitarist in West Clare Contact Marie 087 993 4576

CLASSIFIEDS 37

THURSDAY, AUG 1 2019

Classifieds The Clare Echo Classifieds

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE

CONTACT SALES

065 671 9021 sales@clareecho.ie

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TARMACADAM

Contact 065 671 9021 PAINTING

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The Clare Echo Classifieds Contact 065 671 9021

› Word › Best Daily Word Se… (http://puzzles.bestforpuzzles.com/category/word/)

38 PUZZLEPAGE

THURSDAY, AUG 1 2019

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QUIZ 39

THURSDAY, AUG 1 2019

The Clare Echo Quiz

What percentage of County Clare Caher River in the Burren is spe1River is located within the Shannon 7 cial in that it is the only ____ river Basin?

b. c.

Thomond River Basin Munster River Basin

The Rhine is a _____ river?

3 a. Whitewater b. Underground c. Tidal

Ratty River connects which place 4 to the Shannon? a. Quin b. Bunratty c. Sixmilebridge

5

Scariff river connects Lough O’ Grady to ____ ? a.

Lough Derg b.

Lough Conn c.

Lough Corrib

Hell River is located in?

6 a. Inagh b. Clooney c. Lissycasey

Stream is located at 8Victoria which coastal town? a. Kilkee b. Fanore c. Lahinch

many bridges cross the river 9How Fergus in Ennis? a. 3 b. 6 c. 9

l QUESTION 6: Hell River is located in?

of the following coun10Which ties is not within the River Shannon Basin catchment area? a. Tipperary b. Leitrim c. Waterford

by Cian O’Broin

6. Clooney 7. Overground 8. Kilkee 9. 6 10. Waterford

The remainder of County Clare is 2 located within which area? a.

Western River Basin

in the area? a. Overground b. Underground c.

Dried Up

ANSWERS

1. 95% 2. Western River Basin 3. Tidal 4. Sixmilebridge 5. Lough Derg

a.

45 % b. 75% c. 95%

OLD IMAGES OF COUNTY CLARE

Shannon View Hotel, Killaloe, Co. Clare

Image NLI.ie / Collection: The Lawrence Photograph Collection