The Clare Echo 01/11/2018

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1 Nov 2018

Clarecastle puts phone on hold

C

STUART HOLLY

editor@clareecho.ie

LARECASTLE National School is leading the charge to keep children safe from online bullying by implementing a policy so that children will not have sole ownership of a mobile phone while attending school.

The initiative follows the introduction of an internet and technology policy at Clarecastle Na-

tional School where 82 ing concerns of inapproper cent of parents agreed priate use of mobile techthat their children will nology. not have sole ownership For full story SEE PAGE 8 of a mobile phone while attending the school.

Describing the policy introduced by school principal Martin Moloney as a sensible and considered response to a complex issue, Deputy Carey said that he had written to Minister McHugh urging him to adopt the Clarecastle policy as a model that could be replicated in primary schools all DINING OUT over the country.

The move came follow- 7-PAGE FEATURE

lLOYAL ENNISTYMON SUPPORTER: Young Colm Callinan stays close to his club flag after the North Clare side were defeated in the county final Photo by Martin Connolly

2 NEWS

THURSDAY, NOV 1 2018

Index RHYS WILLIAMS

10

ENTERTAINMENT

11

DINING OUT

17-23

OPINION

24

PROPERTY

26-28

MOTORING

29-31

MARTIN DALY

32

CLASSIFIEDS

34-37

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

NEWSDESK

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

SALES

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

l BIG THINKER: Ten-year-old Clonlara student Callum McGrath is one of the nine members of Ireland’s most influential young people’s group, The Wonder Panel, who have been working on the four Science Apprentice books for the past five months. The Scoil Seanain Naoifa student was recruited by University College Dublin .The Science Apprentice books are available to order for schools and are free to collect with the Irish Independent in SuperValu stores every Saturday in November.

Carey ‘aware of’ data centre plan STUART HOLLY

editor@clareecho.ie

F

INE Gael TD Joe Carey is confident that Clare will benefit from new planning legislation which was recently enacted to facilitate the provision of data centres as strategic infrastructure developments.

Deputy Carey is aware of a proposal for a major data centre to be located in County Clare which has the potential to generate hundreds of permanent and construction jobs.

“I am aware of a proposal to provide a significant Data Centre in County Clare which is at a very advanced stage. This follows a call from Clare County Council to local landowners and developers to identity sites that could be used to build data centres in the County.

“We are all very much aware of the lengthy planning difficulties which ultimately led to the demise of the €850 million Apple data centre in Athenry. By recognising data centres as strategic infrastructure developments in section 49 of the newly enacted Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2018, planning applications for the development of new data centres will now be lodged directly with An Board Plenála.

“This new streamlined planning approach will lead to speedier planning decisions,” he explained.

“It’s my understanding that while this important piece of legislation has been enacted since July of this year, Section 49 has yet to be ‘commenced’ meaning that it still has to come into effect. I have raised this matter with the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government and have been advised that it’s their intention to hold “workshops” with potential data centre providers prior to commencing this part of the Act. It’s anticipated that this will take place late this year or early next year.

“County Clare’s climate makes it cheaper for data centre operators to cool the large network of computer servers they use to store information. Other factors in Clare’s favour include direct access to European Union markets and good air travel connectivity through Shannon Airport.

“Data centres are central to the digital economy. They contribute to job creation and generate significant added economic benefit by providing a range of services to other firms that undertake production, research and development, marketing, sales, service, and support activities in locations with no physical/geographic connection to the data centre.

“As large consumers of electricity, data centres pose particular challenges to the future planning and operation of a sustainable power system. I have been assured that the Government recognises these challenges and will take steps to mitigate them. These include a range of measures to promote regional options for data centre investment and minimising the need for additional grid infrastructure,” Carey added.

4

NEWS

Almost 12,000 vote for Casey STUART HOLLY

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editor@clareecho.ie

HILE incumbent President Michael D Higgins' return was barely in question in last week's presedential elevtion referendum, it may have raised a few eyebrows that the controversial Peter Casey polled above average in Co Clare, homeplace of President Higgins.

The count from Co Clare from 41,871 valid votes, a poor turnout of about half the electorate, Higgins stormed home with 56% of the vote.

His only legitimate challenge came from Casey, who notoriously made comments in relation to the Travelling community in the lead-up to the referendum. Casey of Dragon's Den fame, took home 11,722 votes, or almost 28 per cent.

Sean Gallagher was next with 5.5 per cent, just ahead of Sinn Fein's Liadh Ni Riadha (5%).

Clare Sinn Fein, in a statement to The Clare Echo, admitted disappointment that the party vote did not come out for Liadh Ni Riadh.

However, Sinn Féin believes that from it’s sampling of the vote that party representation, is set to make gains in Clare.

Meanwhile, Ballycar National School expressed their delight that their former pupil, Michael D, was reelected. President Higgins is also a

THURSDAY, NOV 1 2018

DANCING TO GLORY...

past pupil of St Flannan's in Ennis.

"Congratulations to Ballycar NS past pupil Mr Michael D Higgins on his election of President of Ireland for a second term," they wrote online.

Meanwhile TD Timmy Dooley was critical of the campaign tactics used by Casey, tweeting, "No politician or political party should ignore anyone or any group - what needs to be avoided is the demonising of minorities for short term publicity - political solutions are complex and are never delivered with a megaphone - A true Republic guarantees fairness and equality."

Mr Dooley also scoffed at the notion that Casey would join the Fianna Fáil party.

Eoin Neylon

A look at Clare’s presidential vote P24

TREE-SY DOES IT: Kate O’Callaghan, Corofin celebrating her cousins christening and her success at the Gibbons-Farrell Scariff Irish Dance Academy Feis Iarthair na Gaillimhe on Saturday and on Sunday (inset) winning the under 13b plate final Photo by John Mangan

Opens Saturday 24th November

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6

NEWS

Vandal of war memorial is a 'spineless coward' STUART HOLLY

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editor@clareecho.ie

ARDAI are investigating what’s been described as a cowardly act of vandalism after a War Memorial in Ennis was destroyed.

Cllr Mary Howard, who is a member of the Clare Peace Park committee who commissioned the memorial, described the culprit as a “gormless, spineless coward”.

She wrote in an online statement, “This morning we discovered that our War Memorial commemorating those who died in the 1st World War was vandalized by some spineless coward using a hammer or some such blunt implement.

“I joined the Clare Peace Park committee with Keir McNamara, Paddy O’Meara, Gerard Browne, Joe Power and Rev Bob Hanna in 2012 as I believed we should honour those who gave up their lives for us.

“This memorial came about after a number of years fundraising, getting sponsorship and donations as well as chasing all sorts of grants. The memorial is now worth in the region of €70,000.

“This sort of behavior is unacceptable as the memorial means so much to so many and has become an integral part of the built heritage of this town. Since the memorial has been completed we have remembered those who died in WW1, the battle of the Somme and as recently as October the 7th we remembered those who perished in the RMS Leinster.”

Independent TD, Dr Michael Harty, in a statement to The Clare Echo added that 4,000 Clare men fought in the Great War and about 700 lost their lives.

“This iconic glass memorial is such a well crafted and appropriate piece of work, it is shameful that anyone would try to damage it."

If anyone has any information please contact Ennis Gardaí.

THURSDAY, NOV 1 2018

ADVERTORIAL

Lyle & Scott arrives at Specsavers FOR the discerning gent looking to update his glasses wardrobe this season, look no further than Lyle & Scott’s debut collection at Specsavers.

The locally owned Specsavers based in the Market in Ennis is among stores to exclusively welcome the new collection.

Inspired by the iconic Lyle & Scott archives, the brand has created a collection of sartorial specs classics, ideal for the modern man - or indeed a lady looking to surprise their other half for Christmas.

Smoky acetates, rich autumnal colours and oversized frames characterise a retro-inspired collection that still feels completely on-trend.

The 12-strong collection is available in stores nationwide, priced at €189 for two pairs.

l DAMAGE: Vandalism to the structure estimated to be worth €70k Photo courtesy Cllr Mary Howard

8

NEWS

THURSDAY, NOV 1 2018

'Govern use of mobiles at our schools' Clarecastle leads way with policy STUART HOLLY

C

editor@clareecho.ie

LARE Fine Gael TD Joe Carey has asked Education Minister Joe McHugh to enable primary schools formulate policies governing the use of mobile phones and other information technology devices among young school goers.

The initiative follows the introduction of an internet and technology policy at Clarecastle National School where 82 per cent of parents agreed that their children will not have sole ownership of a mobile phone while attending the school.

The agreement also includes the use of “age-appropriate technology" at the pupil's homes for a reasonable time period every week.

Describing the policy introduced by school principal Martin Moloney as a sensible and considered response to a complex issue, Deputy Carey said that he had written to Minister McHugh

urging him to adopt the Clarecastle policy as a model that could be replicated in primary schools all over the country.

The policy was drawn up on the advice of forensic psychologist and social media safety expert Maureen Griffin who fully endorsed the Clarecastle school’s ‘no phone’ approach.

In an email to parents Mr Moloney said that issues such as cyberbullying, sending inappropriate pictures, exposure to age-inappropriate content, had all come to light in the school.

"As a school, we want to help ensure our students are happy and safe not only in real-life but also online. We also want to help alleviate the pressure that parents come under and offer resources and assistance with regard to their children’s technology uses.”

“The desired result is for pupils to be able to embrace technology in a safe and age-appropriate environment while leaving plenty of time for physical activity, play and sleep," the email stated.

Clare through a lense

CLARE Museum in Ennis will host an eclectic photography exhibition showcasing a sample of work by the Clare Camera Club from 31 October to 24 November.

The Ennis-based camera club provides a supportive forum comprising of professional, hobby and camera enthusiasts in County Clare. The club meets every second Tuesday evenings in John Mangan’s photographic studio in the Quin road. Its membership is open to people who have an interest in photography and who are over the age of 18 years.

Affiliated with the Irish photographic Federation, the club provides advice, encouragement and guidance to all our members and regularly goes on photographic trips within and outside of Ireland.

The photographs on exhibit will be for sale and half of the value of purchase will be donated to a local charity.

l DOES IT FLOAT YOUR BOAT: A piece by John Mangan which appears at the Clare Camera Club exhibition this month

THURSDAY, NOV 1 2018

Situation ‘improving’ at Ennis pound - Cllr Flynn STUART HOLLY

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editor@clareecho.ie

HE Ennis Dog Pound has been the at the receiving end of much criticism over the years, but it seems situation for stray dogs in Ennis is improving. Reports indicate that in 2013, 561 stray or seized dogs were put to sleep at the Ennis Pound. So far in 2018, there have only been 14 dogs put to sleep on the grounds that they were posing a danger to people.

Ennis Town Councillor Johnny Flynn comments, “At next week’s County Council meeting, I’m calling for the publication of statistics for the Horse Welfare management in Clare over the last five years. From what I understand, nearly 100 per cent of seized or surrendered horses in Clare have been put to sleep under the current contract delivered by a company in Cork.

“In conjunction with this, I’m asking for an update of the

tendering decision for the proposed 3-year management plans for control of dog welfare and horse welfare. The new contracts should set an objective of 100% rehousing of these vulnerable horses and dogs wit the exception of dangerous animals.

“Since 2014 when animal welfare concerns were brought to my attention, I regularly visit the dog pound and advocate for the investment by Clare County Council in facility improvements and provisions for control of dog welfare services, which coincided with Midland Animal Care Ltd getting that contract in 2016. I hope these new calls help to improve the outcomes for horse welfare in Clare.”

Investment by Clare County Council in recent years has resulted in a new outdoor insulated kennels, improved heating equipment to keep dogs and puppies warm throughout the winter and increase in storage facilities to ensure the safety of the staff. A further investment this year has been appointed to upgrade windows, flooring and

l STATISTICS: So far this year 14 dogs have been put to sleep (stock image of a dog at an animal shelter or pound)

kennels and the purchase of comforts, such as new dog beds.

Cllr Flynn added, “I’m looking forward to seeing the new upgrades completed for the En-

nis Dog Pound which the contractors started works last week.

These improvements are a huge step forward in taking care of our vulnerable animals.”

NEWS 9 ADVERTORIAL

Get decked out with Pat Smyth Winter has well and truly set in, so now is the perfect time to update your wardrobe and breathe some warmth into your autumn/winter fashion.

Pat Smyth’s located on Bridge Street Gort was established in 1996. Pat and his wife Mary who have over 40 years experience in fashion retail aim to provide the ultimate personal shopping experience for their customers. With both a ladies and a gents shop located under the one roof, fully stocked with an array of top brands, trends and quality garments.

Pat’s drapery stocks some of the leading labels in men’s fashion such as; Magee, baileys, benetti, Douglas, kellerman, tricot marine.

Instore, Pat also stocks a wide variety of casual, dressy and workwear, to complete your look you will find the perfect shoe in the footwear dept, or Wellingtons/ work boots for the working man.

The ladies dept first opened 16 years ago and is well and truly established as a one stop shop for all a lady needs!

Stocking a host of leading label s including Peruuzi, Via Veneto, Avalon, Ella Boo and many more in sizes 10-26.

So ladies and gents, Pat Smyth’s look forward to seeing you instore soon. For that special occasion, Pat Smyth’s Gort is the right location.

10

NEWS

Rhys is swinging for the fences

THURSDAY, NOV 1 2018

Ennis showjumper aspires to some day compete in Olympics after European Gold STUART HOLLY

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editor@clareecho.ie

HERE’S a higher level of toughness required to succeed in any individual sport. With nowhere to hide defeats are magnified while victories are harder to get. And while most youngsters across Clare compete in team sports like hurling, football and rugby, a 14-year-old from the outskirts of Ennis is proving himself on the international showjumping stage.

Rhys Williams is a kid that knows all about dealing with pressure. In July of this year, the Rice College student was battling it out with Europe’s best at the Longines FEI European Championships in Fontainebleau, France.

Last to go in the second round of the final, Rhys and his pony CES Cruson – owned and bred by John & Marie Burke from Clare Equestrian Centre, Doora – were in a position to take

home. With five combinations chasing behind him on four faults, Rhys could not afford a mistake, but completed his round with exceptional technique. It was a trick he repeated having already won team silver with Ireland. The fact that never before has it been done that any individual has come out with a perfect score of zero over five rounds at the Europeans is testament to Rhys’s steely mentality - add to that, he was representing Ireland on the world stage.

42 years prior to this, Ennis native, Jimmy Flynn of the Clare Road’s mare ‘Heather Honey’ was the last to bring a European gold medal home to this county for Showjumping.

“It was a lot of pressure. I needed to jump the round clear for us to finish on the podium and I did that so it was a big relief,” admits Rhys, who rates the European Championship success as the pinnacle of a young career that includes countless awards including an outstanding achievement award by Horse Sport

Ireland and Showjumping.

Closer to home, the Rice College Junior Cert student made more history last month by becoming the youngest person to be honoured at a Civic Reception

by Clare County Council, something Rhys says was a “wonderful achievement”.

“Mayor Michael Begley presented me the award along with Jim Warny, who was part of the Thailand rescue and Naomi Carroll of the Irish women’s hockey team. I got to speak to the both of them, they were very nice people.”

That he’s come so far in such a short space of time is in part tribute to his parents. According to Rhys he was up on a horse as early as he can remember and helping out at his family’s PARC Stables on the Kilrush Road once he was old enough to help out. Rhys’s parents are Adrian and Paula Williams (nee Flynn.)

“I can’t really remember when I started riding horses. Dad’s always had horses in the yard and he’d be putting me up on qui-

et ones ever since I was young. Dad jumped internationally as well – he’s jumped in Europeans and internationals in Dublin in the RDS. He kind of finished his career when I was born,” says Rhys, whose younger brother Coen (13) is a promising showjumping while his younger sister Scarlett (12) also rides as a past time.

At school in Rice College, Rhys also spearheads the fast-growing school showjumping team but also makes a point of taking his academic career seriously. The third year with a strong interest in science mentions about one day studying medicine, however there’s no getting away from it; Rhys lives and breathes horses and showjumping.

Asked of his aspirations, he says – without any hint of grandeur – “If I got to the Olympics it’d be nice. A few more European Championship would be nice too.” Which leaves me to wonder, what am I doing with my life?

Entertainment O’KELLY BRINGS SHOW TO GLÓR KATE O’GORMAN

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news@clareecho.ie

REMIERING at the Dublin Theatre Festival in 1988, Donal O’ Kelly’s solo play ‘Bat the Father Rabbit the Son’ is on tour once again to celebrate its thirtieth anniversary. The invigorating show which has been described by The News as “powerful and unforgettable” will be back on stage across thirty venues in Ireland, including Clare’s very own theatre Glór.

Although written thirty years previous, according to playwright and performer Donal O’Kelly (pictured) “the main elements of the show are just as prevalent now as they were back then”.

Bat the Father Rabbit the Son’ brings the audience on an unusual yet gripping journey to Dublin in the 1980’s as solo actor O’ Kelly highlights the cultural outlook of Ireland through the incorporation of main characters Bat and Rabbit. The play focuses on business man Rabbit’s quest for photographs of his father and Irish Citizen Army volunteer Bat, and whilst doing so becomes possessed by his father resulting in a battle between father and son, past and present. “The idea behind the play is that you cannot get away from your past, it is part of you whether you like it or not. I just wanted to write a story about what Ireland looked like to me at the time and it was good to be telling an unusual yet very Irish story. Rabbit was the sort I was seeing everywhere in Dublin at the time, dressed in loud pinstripes that were running the country with a very basic view of what life is all about. I think the story strikes a chord because the mind-set of greed that Rabbit encapsulates is still kind of what runs the country now”.

The play’s universal concept of having to deal with what you have been handed down in life brought it vast success all over the world with tours in London, Edinburgh, New York, Australia and New Zealand. ‘Bat the Father Rabbit the Son’ draws in the audience with its charming wit and eye-open-

ing experience of the generation that brought about Ireland’s economic downfall. The play can be compared to an “unusual lively night out, filled with laughter and leaving the audience feeling livelier than they felt when they went in”.

The fast paced one-man show allows the audience to use their imagination creating an unforgettable experience regardless of the thirty-year time gap. According to O’ Kelly, “doing a solo show is a difficult thing to do because there’s only one person on stage but in another way, as an actor you never have the horror of seeing the fear in the other actor’s eyes if anything goes wrong. You’re on your own and I really enjoy it. It’s like a challenge to the audience, come on and we go on this journey together. That’s what I like about it”.

Reviving the show has also challenged O’ Kelly to ensure each night of the play guarantees the same memorable performance regardless of his familiarity with the script. Recalling the memory of his very first night preforming ‘Bat the Father Rabbit the Son’, O’ Kelly realised the intense workload required for the play to be a success.

“When I first rehearsed it I thought I was going to die at the shock of it all.

A few days after the first night doing it in Mansion House in Dublin, which was thirty years ago now, I had so many bruises.

As I was getting into bed I saw these terrible bruises on the insides of my arms, it was because I was so nervous and tense on the opening night. There’s a whole speech near the end where I’m hugging the legs of an upturned table and I was hugging it so tight that I got these big bruises up my arms. No bruises now though, but I am always thinking at the back of my mind did I lose my marbles back then or am I talking complete r u b bish, but you have to suppress that thought and keep going”. nThe play ‘Bat the Father Rabbit the Son’ takes to the stage at glór theatre in Ennis on Friday 2nd November at 8pm with tickets on sale for €16.

Halloween

The scene

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lCLOWNING AROUND: Kayden Hodges, a 1st class pupils at St Tola’s primary school in Shannon

lADORABLE: Ava McMahon is one of the cutest pumpkins around

lHAVING A BALL: Tadhg Hassett, who attends Gaelscoil Mhíchíl Cíosóg in Ennis, showing the importance of wearing a helmet when taking to the pitch

Readers get spooky for Halloween

lHEAD HONCHO: Tomás Dooley from Shannon made a meal of his Halloween outfit

Hundreds dress up and send in pics

T

HERE were ghostly goblins and spooky costumes aplenty as youngester (and grown up kids) got into the Halloween spirit by dressing up and trickor-treating.

Others attended Halloween themed events such as the Parnell Stree Festival, while others got their kicks by going pumpkin picking at various locations across the county.

We put out the call on Facebook for

readers to send in their scary shots and were overwhelmed by the response, with more than 100 readers photos submitted from all across the county, from Cree and Mullagh to Tulla and Scariff.

If you have any pictures or upcoming events you’d like featured in The Clare Echo, please send requests to editor@clareecho.ie.

lTIME FOR A REST: Clare youngster Darragh O’Grady (2) curragh chase pumkin patch

THURSDAY, NOV 1 2018

HALLOWEEN SPECIAL 13 lTRIPLE THREAT: Lauren, Lucie and Isabelle Butler from Tulla were quite the terrible trio as they headed out for a night of Halloween fun at the weekend

lSMALL ‘N SCARY: Two-year-old Ben Norton ready with his trick-or-treat bag; and Darragh (3) on his way to creche, sent in by granny Joan Eustace Daly lCUTE AS A BUTTON: One year old Robyn enjoying the pumpkin farm at Ardrahan

lFOR THE WAY WE SCARE TODAY: The staff at Lynch’s Centra in Ennis pulled out all the stops this Halloween

lIN WONDERLAND: Ennistymon Choral Society members Anne and Mike O’Loughlin, with Paul and Emer Bowen at their annual Halloween karaoke in the Front Bar, Lahinch

lFAMILY FUN: Becky (13) Robbie (8) and Jack (2) Pilkington from Cree get into the Halloween spirit

14 COLUMNIST

lWINTER WARMERS: Our guide to handbag essentials that will see you through the cold months

THURSDAY, NOV 1 2018

Jodie Finlay

JODIE'S HOUSE OF BEAUTY

HANDBAG

HEROES W

HILE the Winter weather has been mild so far, do not be fooled Winter is here. The transition into the winter months can be harsh and dehydrating on our skin.

As well as updating your wardrobe it’s a good idea to update your handbag to include all the essentials to combat dry skin. Ditch the spf and sunglasses. It is time to replace them.

TISSUES

An obvious but easily forgotten one. You don’t want to be stuck with a runny nose/make up emergency/watery eyes and no tissue in sight! Kleenex/Sniff are some brands that make little handbag and lightweight size packets.

HAND CREAM

Our skin finds it hard to deal with the temperature changes from switching from warm artificially heated indoors to freezing cold outdoors. I love hand cream that absorbs into the skin well and doesn’t leave you feeling sticky.

L’occitane handcream is a favourite of mine. However, Penneys stock one in similar packaging which is only €1.50 and it is brilliant. These two really leave your hands feeling nourished. A regular body lotion just won’t do in Winter!

Both come in small tubes ideal for your handbag.

LIP BALM

Whether it’s in the car, on your bedside locker, on your desk at work, in your pocket, or in your handbag, it is a must have in Winter. While the EOS lip spheres are very popular they don’t seem to do much for my lips. If my lips are very badly cracked/chapped I think blistex is the best product to use. I like to have a carmex in my bag too. There are lovely scented ones making them a bit more appealing. Most pharmacies sell

lHAND CREAM: Keep skin hydrated. Our skin finds it hard to deal with the temperature changes from switching from warm artificially heated indoors to freezing cold outdoors

both and they are both under €5 approx.

SAMPLES

Save all your samples from make-up counters to keep in your handbag. You’ll be surprised how often they will come in handy be it perfume/handcream/moisturiser.

GLOVES

Gloves help to prevent dry hands from worsening in the cold weather as they act as a barrier. They take up little space and are ideal to have kept in the handbag for unplanned trips.

Applying a layer of hand cream

before putting on your gloves will leave your hands feeling smooth and hydrated afterwards.

HAND SANITISER

With so many people getting ill from the weather transition germs are high. Keeping hand sanitiser in your bad might just ensure that your hands are free from any nasty cold and flu germs that would have you feeling under the weather.

A MIRROR

A small pocket mirror will take up minimum space in your handbag.

15 COMMUNITY

Community NORTH/WEST CLARE

LOSING PLASTIC IS FANTASTIC There was a fantastic turnout at he Local Solution to Plastic Pollution event in the Armada Hotel, Spanish Point earlier this week for communities of Miltown Malbay, Spanish Point, Mullagh and Quilty. Over 200 people attended the event to look for ways we as a community might reduce our plastic usage, increase our recycling and so address the negative impact that plastic is having on our environment.

Presentations on the night were made by Ken O’Sullivan filmmaker (pictured above), underwater cameraman and presenter of RTE’S ‘Ireland’s Deep Atlantic’, Cillian Murphy of the Make Kilkee Plastic Free campaign, Theresa O’Donohoe, Environmental Activist, as well as a display of artwork made by local school children using plastics and other materials found on beaches.

This was a voluntary initiative and the organisers hope other communities might be inspired to look for their own ‘local solution to plastic pollution’.

CBS BOYS SET FOR UL The Monastery Boys of the CBS Ennistymon will perform a lunchtime concert on Wednesday 7th November at 1.15pm in the University of Limerick, as part of the Irish World Academy of Music & Dance lunchtime series. All welcome.

EVENT FOR FAMILY CARERS Family Carers Ireland, in conjunction with Lisdoonvarna Health Centre are holding an open Information Night on Wednesday, November 7 from 7.30-10pm at the Pavilion in Lisdoonvarna.

The event is open to anyone who is caring for a family member, friend or neighbour. Services and Supports, rights and entitlements and safety will all be discussed along with the crisis in healthcare in North Clare. There will also be information stands and information for those interested in becoming homecare workers.

For more information call Marian on 065 68 88515 or email

NEWMARKET-ON-FERGUS

mguthrie@familycarers.ie.

CLARE STUDENTS BIN IT! Students from St Flannan’s College, Ennis, Kilrush Community School, Kilrush, St. Joseph’s Secondary School, Miltown Malbay, and St. John Bosco Community College, Kildysart all participated in the Bin It! workshop that visited their schools late last month.

Bin It! features an actor-led workshop which visits secondary schools across participating local authority areas. The workshop, which is aimed at first and second year students, incorporates a theatre-in-education session which encourages students to dispose of gum litter, and litter more generally, in a responsible manner. Bin It! forms an integral part of the Gum Litter Taskforce’ (GLT) gum litter education campaign which seeks to encourage correct gum disposal.

COMMUNITY GAMES The St Francis Credit Union Clare Community Games Annual General Meeting will be held on Tuesday November 7 in Treacy’s West County Hotel @ 7.30pm. All areas are requested to send three dele-

l SUCCESS STORY: At the 50th anniversary of Newmarket Celtic and launch of the Newmarket Celtic Book were the Newmarket B Team League Winners 2018 along with (right) Martin Ryan, Emma Kevlin and her partner John Delaney

Photos by Joe Buckley

gates. A number of positions are up for election. Amongst those not seeking re-eletion are Vice President Ann Chaplin, Treasurer Charleen Dillon, Assistant Secretary Ita Hanrahan, Registrar Veronica Finucane, PRO Radio Sean Lenihan, Games Director Mary Loughnane, Development Officer Kieran Harvey, Munster Delegates Tony Bourke & Ann Chaplin, Youth Officer Lauren McConway.

l TAKING OUT THE TRASH: Students from St John Bosco Community College Kildysart taking part in the Bin It! workshop at their school

THURSDAY, NOV 1 2018

CONTACT NEWSDESK

065 671 9021 news@clareecho.ie

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK 16

THURSDAY, NOV 1 2018

Ronan Scully

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK Author spreading the word of positivity

SELF HELP AFRICA

I

T TAKES two days to travel from my home in Galway to the rural poor families with whom Self Help Africa works with in Uganda. But in other respects it’s a journey that may as well be a million miles. After two days of travel, your eyes are heavy and your legs are stiff but your mind is racing. You cannot but question how come there are people living in such poverty. It is inevitable then that you ask ‘what can I do to help?’.

I made this journey recently with a great group of Irish supporters of Self Help Africa to visit projects and communities that the charity are implementing in Uganda. We read and hear a lot about the positive changes that Africa is going through. Children are barefoot and in rags, schools are dirt floored and overcrowded, and electricity, if it exists at all, is not much more than a bare bulb hanging from a ceiling. Life expectancy in Uganda recently topped 60 years of age. By our standards that is extremely low, but when you consider that it has increased from 52 years of age just a decade ago, that is evidence of significant change. Rural unemployment levels remain alarmingly high, and basic services – sanitation, basic healthcare, education and electricity - are way behind what we should expect in any country in the 21st century. The social and economic challenges that are faced by poor families are vast.

It is difficult for us to imagine growing up in a world where you lack the very basics in life such as food, clean water, medicine, shelter, safety, a bed of your own. Beyond that, there are few toys for children - no dolls, no soccer balls, no sweets and treats. Families struggle to fund the cost of sending their children to school beyond the very rudimentary overcrowded primary schools that are available at a village level, and because of that, huge numbers of young and innocent children are condemned to a life of poverty from the earliest age.

Growing up brings its share of problems wherever you are in the world, but

growing up in a place like Uganda can be a struggle beyond imagination. Many children are fortunate to be still alive at the age of five, as many of their friends have died of things such as malaria, dysentery, malnutrition, and the like. If both parents are still living, that can be considered another miracle. Malaria is still the number one killer in East Africa, but AIDS comes in a strong second place. Wherever you go you can see the evidence of the ravages of AIDS. Go into any school and ask how many children have only one parent, or no parent and you would be astounded. In a country like Uganda with a population of just over 40 million, there are as many as 1.2 million AIDS orphans. Yes, there is rebel activity in the north and west of Uganda. Yes, there is malaria and other illnesses. This is the other war, AIDS, the silent killer that sweeps through offices, villages, banks, schools and government institutions.

The Irish charity I proudly work for, Self Help Africa is committed to reducing reduce poverty, hunger, Health problems and the refugee crisis by focusing on agriculture and healthcare in parts – both the capacity of small farms to produce the food that a family might need, and the capacity of the land to generate an income from which the household can invest in food, clothing, school fees, medication and the other necessities of daily life.

On our trip we visited a wide variety of different communities and households that Self Help Africa is working with in the country, and we saw at first hand the impact that the simplest activities can have on ordinary daily life. Introducing farmers to new crop varieties, supporting families to set up their own modest backyard vegetable plots, and promoting new breeds of goats, pigs and poultry are just a handful in a myriad of activities that are slowly, but surely changing peoples lives. Under-pinning all of the different activities that are being carried out by Self Help Africa’s Ugandan team is a relentless focus on training and education – so that

MILLIONS OF MILES FROM GALWAY: Ronan Scully helps out in Uganda with the World Food Programme

farmers and their families can do it for themselves, and can make the changes that they want to in their lives. It’s why we are called ‘self help’!

Self Help Africa’s MAYEP project in Uganda is currently helping 3,000 young Ugandans with training that will help them to become farmers, become small agriculture based business people, and also pursue careers in a host of different areas. In just a year it has seen young people commit their futures to their local areas – as processors and traders, as bookkeepers, as construction workers, transport providers and an array of different careers. While the scale of the problems of rural Africa may be vast, and the provision of training to young people, women and families in some respects might seem just like a drop in the ocean, it does illustrate the practical measures that can be taken, and that can and are making a difference.

These are practical steps made possible by the kindness and support of my 12 Irish travelling companions to Uganda, and could be made by you too. These people are not just statistics; they are members of our human family. However, statistics can indicate the magnitude of the problem and the urgency of the task. As we enter into the Second half of 2018, more than half of the world’s population lives on less than €2 a day. More than 1.2 billion people live on less than €1 a day. Over 1 billion people across the globe, most of them children, live with hunger or malnutrition as a regular fact of life. They live in desperate poverty, which means they die younger than they should, struggle with hunger and disease, and live with little hope and less opportunity for a life of dignity.

Yet poverty is not limited to the poorest countries as we ourselves know! In our

own beautiful country of Ireland, poverty is also persistent and pervasive. To be poor in our country is far different from being poor in parts of Africa or Asia but poverty still diminishes the lives and undermines the dignity of many families who live in our midst.

It may be a million miles from Galway to Uganda but watching people from both places meet and share of their lives together in the African bush a few weeks ago, I was struck by how close our lives are.

Close your eyes and the voices are all the same, all singing the same song. It’s hard to really appreciate the suffering of these people when we are so removed from them in every way. But we can try. We all need help at some point. The problems of the world can seem pretty overwhelming and it can sometimes feel that simply looking after our own is all we can do and yet, just a little would help so much. The littlest things can help make a difference.

Simple examples of this difference include the various fundraising events around many parts of our county. It is in this way that we can all play our part in helping to bring an end to hunger, poverty and misery in Africa. The fight against hunger and poverty in Africa - and in Ireland - is not anyone’s responsibility. It is everyone’s.

If you would like to help Self Help Africa with its work or would like to attend the Gorta Self Help Africa charity Ball on Friday the 12th of October in The Galway Bay Hotel, you can get in touch on (01) 6778880 or at www.selfhelpafrica.org or simply send whatever you can afford to Self Help Africa, Westside Resource Centre, Seamus Quirke Road, Westside, Galway. If you would like to drop me a note to ronan.scully@selfhelpafrica.org or (087 ) 6189094. I’d be happy to chat!

18 DINING OUT

Clare Echo STUART HOLLY

editor@clareecho.ie

CHARMING TOWN CENTRE...

Rowan Tree Café Bar, Ennis Brimming with character and views overlooking the river, Rowan Tree Café Bar offers a relaxed and casual dining experience. The menu offers modern cuisine using only the best seasonal and local ingredients available to us. Dishes change with the seasons and can be paired with an interesting selection of wines and some of the finest Irish craft beers. And the best Illy coffee in Ennis!

GET LOST IN THE COUNTRYSIDE... Carrygerry Country House

Here at The Clare Echo we’re huge fans of Carrygerry Country House. Local ingredients, unique homemade creations, a country house setting and warm homely

atmosphere. The family-run country house near Newmarket on Fergus is steeped in history, but it’s the ongoing tradition of great service and food which makes the Ennis-run establishment a real treat for visitors.

SOMETHING SPECIAL...

The Gallery at Dromoland Castle One of the most beloved spots in the Castle, the impressive Gallery captures the essence of Dromoland’s magic. Sink into a deep fire-side sofa or cosy armchair with a casual evening meal, afternoon tea or cocktail and a snack. Surrounded by beautiful antiques, hunting mounts, ancestral portraits and the comfiest of furnishings, don’t be surprised if you linger longer than you intended!

FEEL TRANSPORTED...

Pipers Inn, Killaloe Located along the East Clare Way and less than 2km from the Twomilegate Lakeside Amenity Park and slipway, this family-run restaurant and bar (with snug) is surrounded by wonderful vistas of Lough Derg and Killaloe’s rolling hills. Whether

DINING OUT

19

guide to eating out locally you enjoy a meal in the modern restaurant, book a function in the private function room or just relax and enjoy a pint of Guinness or a glass of wine by the stove in the authentic stone walled bar – there is something for everyone.

STUNNING STREETFOOD...

Lana Ennis LANA has taken Co Clare by storm since opening on O’Connell Street, Ennis, so much so that within three years they have already opened a second premises on the Gort Rd, Ennis. A perfect spot for a family meal or a quick bite with a friend, LANA brings Thai classics such as Pad Thai while their famous Slow Beef Massaman curry is a diner’s favourite.

HEARTY SUNDAY LUNCH...

The Grove, Roslevan Loved among the Barefield massive and Sunday lunchers alike, The Grove Bar and Restaurant serves more than just a delicious pint. The carvery is as good in value as it is in quality, the portions are generous and there’s free parking to boot. Fantastic breakfasts and desserts should also be

more than enough to tempt you to visit the Grove in Roslevan.

EXQUISITE INDIAN...

Tulsi, Ennis If you love Eastern cuisine, prepare to be blown away by perfect Indian food and service at Tulsi on Carmody Street. Top class curries and a classy, extensive menu will have you begging for more Byrianis, Bhunas and Jalfrezis. Vegetarians will also be spoiled for choice – while anyone (18+) can wash it down with a crisp Indian beer.

MOREISH PUB GRUB...

Durty Nellies, Bunratty Durty Nelly’s is one of Ireland’s most famous pubs and offers a truly unique Irish experience through its history and charm.

Often copied but never replaced, this truly unique piece of Irish heritage dates back to 1620. Enjoy the craic agus ceoil every weekend, while enjoying the extensive and great-value menus in The Bar, Loft & Oyster Restaurants. Whether it be a quick bite or a special meal, their top-class chefs will cater to every taste and budget, providing an unforgettable dining experience.

“Faithful friends who are dear to us, gather near to us, once more" GIVE THE FAMILY A PRECHRISTMAS TREAT OR SIMPLY GET IN THE MOOD FOR THE HOLIDAYS, GATHER FAMILY, FRIENDS OR COLLEAGUES AND €47.50 CELEBRATE WITH US THIS Per Person FESTIVE SEASON IN THE MAGICAL SURROUNDS OF OUR CASTLE

“Yuletide carols being sung by a choir” Carols by Candlelight 7th, 8th, 14th, 15th, 21st ,22nd December.

Enjoy flavours and sounds of Christmas in the elegant surrounds and wonderfully atmospheric Earl of Thomond dining room.

Dromoland Castle, N ewmarket-on-Fergus, Co Clare, I reland T +353 (0) 61368144 | dromoland.ie

Festive Afternoon Tea at The Castle

€85 Per Person

FIVE COURSE FESTIVE MENU EXQUISITE ENTERTAINMENT BY KATE PURCELL & 'TRILOGY'

Dromoland Castle, N ewmarket-on-Fergus, Co Clare, I reland T +353 (0) 61368144 | dromoland.ie

Celebrate with family, friends and colleagues this Christmas at Dromoland Castle

20 DINING OUT

HOW TO ENJOY A GUILT FREE MEAL KATE O’GORMAN

T

news@clareecho.ie

AKE advantage of the numerous restaurant options that are now easily accessible at the click of a button. Look up menus online or call ahead so you will know what type of dishes they serve.

DON’T BE AFRAID TO SPEAK UP: Don’t be afraid to ask for something to be changed in the dish as most restaurants are more than happy to accommodate your needs.

Swap deep fried chips for boiled rice or ask for that extra side portion of vegetables.

BE WISE ABOUT DRINK:

After a busy week at work you can still relax and enjoy an alcoholic beverage with your meal. Try ordering a light beer which contains fewer calories or swapping a tonic mixer for a slim line tonic instead.

EAT SOMETHING SMALL BEFOREHAND:

If you are trying to stay healthy and think it’s a good idea to not eat much all day because you’re dining out that evening, think again. Not only is this unhealthy but you’ll be so hungry you will more than likely end up eating more than you normally would have.

SIP ON WATER:

Sometimes thirst can be confused with hunger and leaves you wondering why you still want more. Try sipping on water throughout the meal and take your time eating, ensuring you enjoy every bite.

SHARING IS CARING:

You can still have your cake and eat it.

If you’re trying to make health conscious decisions but the dessert menu is just too tempting, try halving the dessert with someone else.

DINING OUT

Wonderful treats at Carrygerry House STUART HOLLY

editor@clareecho.ie

T

HE hidden gem that is Carrygerry House is offering a number of delightful dining options this winter, from group lunches and Christmas parties to private dining and a wonderful December set menu.

Their three-course December menu (plus tea & coffee) offering is available at €32 per diner while an á la carte menu is also available at www.carrygerryhouse. com. You can also get your New Year’s Eve and Christmas Party bookings in now, with reservations filling up fast. For larger groups, there’s also the stunning courtyard setting which boasts an outdoor open fire.

Meanwhile, Carrygerry Country House is also taking orders for the popular Carrygerry Range, a full range of jams, chutneys, dressings, patés, sauces, sea-

food chowder, soups etc.

A number of products in The Carrygerry Range have won individual awards in their own right, but collectively they all compliment each other and showcase Carrygerry by bringing restaurant quality to your home kitchen. Some of their awards include ‘Great Taste Gold Star’ and numerous ‘Blas na hEireann National Food Awards’ which include Gold, Silver and Bronze.

These Artisan products are produced in the Carrygerry kitchen by chef and owner Niall Ennis and his team. Some of the recipes have been passed down through generations but Niall has added his own personal touches to each and every one. The Carrygerry Range can be purchased in a number of local stockists in the county and can also be purchased in house.

The Carrygerry Food range is available at the Fruit & Veg Shop in Shannon Town Centre, Ryan’s Centre Ennis, Gala O’Brien’s Tulla Rd, Coote’s Bakery Ennis, Crowe’s Minister Cross, Crowe’s Quin, Crowe’s Kilkishen and Seabreeze, Limerick. Christmas hampers / gift vouchers can be ordered by contacting Carrygerry on 061 360 500.

l HOUSE PROUD: Carrygerry Country House owners Gillian and Niall Ennis

Photo by Eoin McCaffrey

21

22 DINING OUT

Love being put back into food at Shannon Airport

T

HE standard for airport food in Ireland has been reset, with a new offering in Shannon stirring up memories of the glory days of dining there.

In another ‘back to the future’ moment at an airport that, since achieving its independence, is recapturing its glory days, JJ Ruddle’s restaurant is set to be one of the success stories of the year in the industry locally.

The newly opened arrivals hall restaurant has elevated the food offering at the airport, with three menu options – breakfast, lunch and dinner – and opening hours from 5a.m. to 11p.m.

Located in an arrival’s hall, the new restaurant is not just a tip of the hat to high dining standards from Shannon’s past but is named after JJ Ruddle. The Shannon Airport Architect from 1963 to 1984. JJ Ruddle also designed many other well-known Co. Clare buildings, including the Lahinch Golf Course clubhouse, which will host next year’s Irish Open.

The late Mr Ruddle’s daughter Fiona and Ean Malone are co-owners of Zest, the restaurant and café company that has developed the new ‘landside’ airport restaurant as well as food and beverage facilities airside.

Zest is a subsidiary of EFG Inflight Ltd, one of Ireland’s leading inflight catering

companies.

Among the items decorating the impressively designed space are architectural sketches, including site drawings for Shannon Airport and Lahinch Golf Course which were found in his old attic collection.

The new restaurant is the final phase of a €2.1m investment in the food and beverage facilities at Shannon. The investment saw the introduction of The Food Market in the transit lounge in June of 2016 and a complete redesign of the Sheridan Bar in May of 2017. The company has also introduced a new Food & Beverage offering at the departures gates, ‘Harry’s at 8’, which has been named after Ean’s father, Harry Malone.

The investment has seen employment numbers at the company’s operations in Shannon rise by 140 to 310.

The arrivals hall restaurant – complete with an outdoor seating area ideal for the summer that’s in it with the menu taking airport dining to a whole new level. Built over a three-month period and seating 80 people, its breakfast menu starts at 5a.m. Lunch commences at 12:30p.m. and includes delicious woodfire pizzas - the pizza base made from 96% fermented dough, making them lighter than most other pizzas.

The evening menu also includes pizzas but, in ad-

dition, steaks, salads, pasta, tempura shrimp tacos as well as a signature Seafood Chowder – available from lunch - that is a throwback to the famous Lindbergh Room at Shannon, one of the top dining experiences in the MidWest in its day. Head-chef at EFG/Zest Danny Miller, in fact, began his career, as a commis chef, in the Lindbergh Room kitchen. Another proud feature of the services is the ‘pint of plain’ - barmen, Dom O’Connor, having won the top award for pulling the best pint of Guinness at the Best Guinness Bartender in Ireland Competition.

Said Fiona Barry, “Shannon has such an incredible history and one of the things that younger generations wouldn’t know about was that it had one of the finest restaurants in the entire region. We want to recapture that sense of quality and put the love back into food and have very much done that with JJ Ruddle’s.

“The name has a lot of nostalgia for me personally and for so many people who work here but it’s all about the food. We want to be a destination restaurant and the standards are there to match. The flip side of that is Shannon gets a restaurant with a standard that no other airport in Ireland and many outside it has so that’s in keeping with the airport’s renewed focus since separation on doing things better than its peers.”

Said Shannon Airport Managing Director Andrew Murphy, “JJ Ruddle’s is a fantastic addition to the airport. We have a very proud history in so many areas of the business, including our food offering. When we gained independence, one of our primary goals was to restore that standard and JJ Ruddle’s and Zest is doing that brilliantly. lWOOD-FIRED UP: L-R Andrew Murphy, Managing Director Shannon Airport, Chef Brian O’Mara and Ean Malone

Photo by Arthur Ellis

DINING OUT

23

Clare’s double Michelin success STUART HOLLY

T

editor@clareecho.ie

WO Clare restaurants retained their Michelin Star and Bib Gourmand status last month in the new Michelin Guide Great Britain & Ireland 2019.

Wild Honey Inn, last year the first pub in Ireland to gain a Michelin star, has again been

awarded the prestigious award.

According to the Michelin judges, the Lisdoonvarna establishment showcases the best in local produce to a high standard.

“This personally run inn started life as an 1860s hotel, so it may not look much like a pub, but once inside it’s warm, cosy and full of pubby character.

Two weekly changing fixed price menus have a classical French base and showcase the county’s produce in neat, confidently prepared dishes which are packed with flavour. Comfy

bedrooms have a fittingly traditional feel.”

The Wild Honey Inn is owned and run by chef Aidan McGrath and his partner Kate Sweeney.

The popular family-run Morrissey’s Seafood Bar and Grill in Doonbeg, meanwhile, was awarded the Bib Gourmand which recognises establishments that offer simple yet skillful cooking for under €40 for a three-course meal.

In total, 14 restaurants were awarded Michelin Star status this year.

lPRESTIGOUS HONOUR: (Left) Aidan McGrath from the Honeywell Inn in Lisdoonvarna which retained its Michelin star and (above) Morrisseys in Doonbeg was awarded a Bib Gourmand

24 ADVICE/ OPINION

THURSDAY, NOV 1 2018

Darach Honan

Eoin Neylon

Protect your business, protect your income

Casey Traveller comments did our country a service

Trusted independent financial advisor with IPS Financial Advice

I

F YOU own and run your own business, you will understand that planning is everything. From business resources to customer service and cash flow, careful planning of each and every aspect of your business will stand you in good stead no matter what the business environment or the challenges you face.

But have you planned for the possibility of a serious illness or injury that prevents you from running your business and earning an income? How would your business cope and how would you be able to pay for your household mortgage, electricity and gas bills and the expenses of day to day living? As a business owner you are responsible for funding your pension, so how would you continue to ensure that it will meet your needs when you retire?

You probably already have some form of life insurance to ensure that, in the event of your untimely death, your dependants’ financial needs will be taken care of. However, during your working lifetime, you are far more likely to suffer an illness, disability or injury which leaves you unable to work for six months or more.

Many employees will be entitled to some form of sick pay from their employer which will tide them over for the first few weeks or months of an illness or disability. PAYE workers would also then qualify for State Illness Benefit which will provide a small financial cushion. If you run your own business, however, you are highly unlikely to qualify for sick pay or State Illness Benefit. This means that if an illness or disability leaves you unable to earn an income - you are on your own. So, given the risks, shouldn’t planning for the possibility that illness or disability could leave you unable to earn an income be right at the heart of your business plan?

Fortunately, there is a product which is designed to protect business owners from the financial risks associated with an illness, injury or disability. It’s called Income Protection and it is a form of insurance which ensures that your financial commitments will be looked after in the event of you suffering any illness, injury or disability which leaves you incapable of running your business and earning an income.

With Income Protection you pay a monthly premium which is based on your income, your health status, and the level of benefits you are looking for. Your premiums qualify for tax relief at your marginal rate. Usually you can choose to protect up to 75% of your income and index link your premiums and benefit levels to ensure that your cover keeps pace with your lifestyle and financial commitments.

To help with your business’s forward planning, you can also take the option of fixing your premiums for a set period.

Should you suffer any injury, illness or disability preventing you from running

your business and earning an income, then subject to medical assessment and following a waiting period of your choosing, your Income Protection policy will pay you an alternate income of up to 75% of your gross income at the time you fell ill or suffered an injury. This payment will continue until such time as you are ready to return to the workplace or until the cease date of your policy, usually chosen to mirror retirement age.

This alternate income should allow you to cover your domestic financial commitments and continue to contribute to your pension until you are fit to return to running your business once more.

One of the biggest benefits of Income Protection is that it does not simply pay you an alternate income when you are unable to work. Some providers have policies that are designed to assist your return to running your business as quickly and seamlessly as possible. Occupational therapists and workplace consultants are available to work with you to arrange any changes in work practices required to accommodate your return.

If your illness or injury prevents you from returning to your previous role, then your policy provider may offer a career change consultancy service to assist you in finding an alternative career direction.

As a business owner you will be used to turning to experts such as accountants and solicitors for specialised advice. So, when it comes to Income Protection it makes sense to contact your financial advisor for advice about choosing the right cover for you and your business.

Like any expert, they are best-placed to review your circumstances with you and choose an Income Protection policy that meets your needs. Although relatively straightforward, Income Protection offers a variety of benefit levels, waiting periods and premiums so it’s worth taking the time to properly consider your options with the guidance of your advisor.

Above all, however, Income Protection gives you the peace of mind of knowing that if you become sick or disabled and unable to work, your financial commitments are covered. Because that peace of mind frees you to concentrate your energies on running your business, Income Protection can be worth its weight in gold.

For anyone interested in knowing more, I am here to answer all your questions.

If there is something I can help you with, please get in touch.

Darach@ipsfa.ie 087-1277155

Where an opinion is expressed, it is the personal opinion of the author only and not of the paper.

An inside look at Clare’s political spectrum

T

HE dust has settled on a thoroughly uninspiring Presidential election.

As predicted, Michael D strolled into a second term as he recorded the second highest vote percentage in history. Much has already been written about the Peter Casey’s surge to take 23% of the poll, however, that figure is artificially boosted by the terribly low turnout. Casey did play the media game very well. In a bland campaign he set himself apart by capturing the headlines. In effect, he made himself the de facto protest candidate with much the same rhetoric as we’ve seen from populists the world over recently.

At the convention centre on Saturday I witnessed something I’d never before seen; before the first count of any constituency was officially declared, the centre was empty of anyone not being paid to be there.

Every tallier, supporter and by-standard had long cleared out by lunch time and even the media ranks were reduced to skeleton crews. It was a scene, I’m informed, that was repeated all over the country.

With no transfer patterns to study and this election serving as an isolated poll, there wasn’t much info for political parties to gather.

The only statistic of any interest was the Sinn Féin showing. The party was bitterly disappointed and it was etched all over their faces. Mary Lou McDonald tried to put a brave face on it with the media but there was no getting away from the fact that the party had lost a lot of ground in the past seven years. Sure, they were up against a popular incumbent but for several years SF had claimed they were building their core vote and were a new force to be reckoned with. This result has scuppered that message and demonstrated that their core vote is still in the mid-single digits. If half their support is as soft as last weekend suggests,

then that’s a section of the electorate that’s vulnerable to be targeted by other parties. This is the support that Labour used to enjoy and will aim to win back. So too will the Social Democrats and others to the centre-left. SF now find themselves in a bind between the hard left in Solidarity and People Before Profit on one side and the traditional centre left to the other side.

Beyond that in the centre is a Fianna Fáil party that is gaining momentum in the polls and aiming to reclaim some of the Republican vote from SF with plans to go North in search of new opportunities. These plans that were the talk of the body politic after the “launch” in Omagh of Cllr.

Sorcha McAnespy’s council election campaign for Fianna Fáil. A launch that was subsequently denied by FF HQ but that in turn was contradicted by members of the party’s National Executive who said Michéal Martin had confirmed her candidature at an executive meeting. This is a situation worth following.

Back in the Banner, the election proved nothing more than a distraction.

Safe in the knowledge that Newmarket-on-Fergus bred Higgins was set for a second term, some Clare voters used the opportunity to send a message. At Cusack Park, celebrating Ballyea’s second ever county hurling title, people told me they’d vote for Casey for several reasons among which were hospitals, post office closures, the housing crisis and the decline of rural Ireland. There was also those with whom his comments on the Travelling community resonated.

I’d be the first to admit there are issues within the Travelling community that need to be addressed, but we also must examine what our reaction to these comments says of us. After all, when in history has tension between two groups been solved by isolating, subjugating or making an example of a minority?

I’ve been on the receiving end of anti-Irish sentiment while living in the UK. Those comments didn’t endear the place or the people to me. Imagine facing that each day in your own country. It’s a two-way stream and the communities must form mutual respect if we are to ease tensions. That’s why Peter Casey did the country a service in saying what he did. He showed us that the ‘divide and conquer’ politics of the US is very dangerous. In the end, it serves only the politician to further their own career.

At the end of the day, 71.7% of Clare people, and 77% of the whole country, rejected these sentiments out of hand. Nevertheless, it’s up to 100% of the population to work to ease the tensions between the travelling and settled communities. Perhaps that’s a message some might bring to their next election campaign instead of jumping on the populist bandwagon. One Clare man who might do so is Michael McNamara who launched his campaign to secure the Labour nomination to contest the European Elections next May. If he is successful, he’ll be the first Clare man to represent Ireland in the European Parliament since Paddy Lane. Ultimately though, it means Clare Labour are now searching for a candidate for the next General Election. They’d want to step up the selection process though. The words “February election” proved all too common among supporters and politicians of all parties at the count centre.

Thermal underlayers at the ready it seems!

BUSINESS 25

THURSDAY, NOV 1 2018

BUSINESS

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

SCP up for gong STUART HOLLY

T

editor@clareecho.ie

l BLIND AMBITION: Castle Blinds, Newmarket on Fergus, has been awarded the coveted All-Ireland Business All-Star award. Collecting the award is Pat Naughton and Michelle Barry of Castle Blinds with Kieran Ring of the Global Institute of Logistics Photo by Conor McCabe

HE importance of the Shannon Commercial Properties to the prosperity of Mid-West Region has been highlighted as it has been announced on the shortlist for the coveted Property Industry Excellence Awards.

A Shannon Group company, SCP is a finalist in the Regional Excellence Category of the Irish Independent/ KPMG sponsored awards which will take place at the Convention Centre, Dublin on Thursday November 8.

Shannon Group, through its

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subsidiary Shannon Commercial Property (SCP), is focused on creating a supportive, pro-business ecosystem for multinational companies in the Shannon Free Zone.

This recognition of SCP success, comes after a record breaking period of investment over the past four years.

Since 2014, Shannon Commercial Properties has invested €40 million and creating new and upgraded office and advanced manufacturing space in the Shannon Free Zone.

In the period, SCP has constructed of new offices and advanced manufacturing units for tenants such as Jaguar Land Rover and GE Sensing and refurbished

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over 500,000 sq ft of facilities initially constructed in the 1980s.

Tenants that have occupied these upgraded facilities include Edwards Lifesciences, Magellan Aviation, STS UJet, Jetpower and others.

Ray O’Driscoll, Managing Director of SCP said: “Our goal is to deliver a 21st century business park that attracts 21st century businesses that will bring prosperity and growth to the region.

“These awards are the most prestigious in the industry and to be recognised is a huge honour. It also affirms the hard work, commitment and innovation of our team in Shannon Commercial Properties.”

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26 PROPERTY IN CLARE

Semi-detached family home

ABBEYVILLE, LIMERICK ROAD

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€209,000 DALCASSIN PARK, TURNPIKE

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RESENTED for sale in excellent condition throughout is this bright and spacious 4 bedroom (linked) semi detached family home in the popular Abbeyville housing development. Conveniently located, within walking distance of all town amenities and just 400 meters to the M18 link road, this is a fantastic opportunity for the first time buyer or family home purchaser to acquire a turnkey finished home in a small Cul de Sac of just 16 homes.

Contact: DNG O’Sullivan Hurley, 74 O’Connell Street, Ennis Tel: (065)6840200

Great location 4

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€149,000 32 HILL VIEW CLARECASTLE

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EMI-DETACHED; 4 bedroom house on large corner site within well-settled residential area within 5 minutes walk of Ennis town centre.

Large lawned area to the front and has rear access gate to back garden. House has undergone complete cosmetic makeover in recent years, i.e. Kitchen, flooring, painting, etc.

Contact: DNG O’Sullivan Hurley, 74 O’Connell Street, Ennis Tel: (065)6840200

Stunning village home

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€199,000

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OCATED in the village of Clarecastle, in the newest housing development (Hillview) positioned on a corner site within this popular development, No. 32 is a bright, spacious well proportioned semi-detached family home, boasting a fantastic open plan living space, with the living room, formal dining and kitchen interconnecting (slightly L-shaped) and which further extends to the fantastic rear gardens and patio via the French doors from the dining area.

Contact: DNG O’Sullivan Hurley, 74 O’Connell Street, Ennis Tel: (065)6840200

28 PROPERTY

THURSDAY, NOV 1 2018 l SPOOKTACULAR: Alma Sullivan with her mum Patricia Clancy and her son Michael Sullivan (9) Photo by Arthur Ellis

l FACE OFF: Pictured is Michael Fitzgibbon, Managing Director, M. Fitzgibbon Contractors, who got his face painted by Katie Lernihan aged 9

Photo by Arthur Ellis

Modern development gets spooktacular unveiling

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Energy Efficient Bungalows open to public at Park View, Clarecastle

HE focus was more on energy efficient homes than haunted houses in Clarecastle this Halloween Bank Holiday weekend, as the much anticipated 10 bungalow development at Park View was unveiled for the first time on Saturday October 27, 2018.

Families, couples and single people travelled five minutes from Ennis, 25 minutes from Limerick, and just over 45 minutes from Galway, for the first viewing of the stylish show-house. The show-house opening was coupled with entertainment and fun events at this family centred development.

Michael Fitzgibbon, Managing Director, M. Fitzgibbon Contractors, who built the A3 BER rated homes in Park View said they were built to meet the changing needs of families and individuals in County Clare.

“It is not enough to say there is a housing shortage and we must build houses fast, we must also ensure all homes built today are constructed to the highest standards and meet the needs of the home owners. The high quality, two and three-bedroom homes in this small development were constructed to meet the various requirements of people at different stages in their lives,” he said.

“When it came to building these homes we were conscious of two things, as well as maintaining the high standard we have built our reputation on, we were also aware of the demand for energy efficient homes that are kind to the environment and economical to run. To this end we have fitted all 10 houses with a state of the art air-to-water system with underfloor heating.”

Helen Gallery, Helen Gallery Auc-

tioneers and Valuers added that the new development in Park View had been much anticipated following the high demand for the sold out bungalow development

by M Fitzgibbon Contractors at Haggart View.

“These spacious two-bedroom and three-bedroom Park View bungalows meet the needs of families and retired people, and as such are proving extremely popular. We met a lot of mature people at the open day on Saturday who liked the fact that all rooms were on ground level and easily accessible,” she said.

“The families favoured the large garden space available at the back of the three-bedroom homes and the green to the front, and everyone was delighted that all ten bungalows in Park View were A3 BER rating, making them energy efficient, cost effective and very cosy all year round.”

“It was fantastic to see the intergenerational interest in these homes, something that is very much central to M Fitzgibbon Contractors developments,” added the local auctioneer. nFor more information about

l TRICK OR TREAT: (Above) 3 year old Oran Park View see helengalleryaucBarry and his brother Rían, Clarecastle. (Right) tioneersandvaluers.ie, or contact Oisin Cunningham (10) and his sister Laoise (7), Helen on 086 250 4671 or during the unveiling of Park View, Clarecastle on Saturday.

Photo by Arthur Ellis info@helengallery.ie.

l KITCHEN GALLERY: Hellen Gallery Auctioneers and Valuers (Above) Giving a guided tour to Christina Scanlan with her Daughter Mary and Patrick Morrissey, during the unveiling of Park View, Clarecastle on Saturday Photo by Arthur Ellis

Motoring MOTORING EXPERT NEIL BRISCOE GIVES HIS VIEWS

A-CLASS ACT Mercedes’ new hatchback is little short of amazing inside ROAD TEST: MERCEDES-BENZ A-CLASS

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NCE, long ago (actually it was the 1990s) Mercedes decided that it should start making a small, relatively affordable, hatchback — a luxury car for the masses, kind of thing. Mercedes being Mercedes, it decided not to follow the simple template of most cheap hatchbacks, and instead created a car with a complex, clever ‘sandwich’ chassis, incredible levels of safety, and E-Class saloon cabin space in a car actually shorter than a Ford Ka. It was the A-Class.

It should have been a modern-day take on the original Mini — an incredibly clever car, with packaging that fitted the most space into the smallest shape, but it was scuppered by an elk. An infamous test by a Finnish car magazine found that the tall, short A-Class was unstable on its wheels when carrying out the violent ‘Elk Test’ collision avoidance manoeuvre, and so Mercedes had to drastically modify the car’s suspension, which made it much less engaging to drive. Sales were slow, and in 2012 Mercedes decided that it should go down the conventional route instead, and created the third generation A-Class — a simpler, less adventurous hatchback that lCUTTING EDGE: Decent to drive, roomy, frugal, and with that amazing cabin, it’s going straight to the top of the class

sold strongly, not least because it was so good looking.

Now we have the fourth-generation A-Class, and it follows the template of that previous model — a conventional front-engine, front-drive layout with a roomy cabin, five seats and neat styling.

Actually, rather better than neat — by using some of the styling cues of the new CLS four-door coupe, this new A-Class is actually pretty gorgeous, and gorgeously pretty.

You can have it with a petrol engine, of course (there’s a new 1.33-litre turbo petrol available, with either 140hp or 160hp) but our test car was a diesel — using the familiar OM608 four-cylinder 1.5-litre unit, which is part of the joint agreement with Renault and Nissan, so it’s basically the same engine you’ll find in a Megane or Qashqai.

So now, it’s not a purely Mercedes engine, but that doesn’t stop it being a very decent one. It has brisk performance (taking 10.5secs to accelerate to 100km/h which is bang on the class average) and it has really very impressive fuel economy.

In fact, in daily driving, the A-Class seems to get nearer to its claimed fuel economy figure than anything else we’ve driven of late — 4.5-litres per 100km is the claimed figure (62.7mpg) and we scored 4.7-litres per 100km (60.1mpg). And before you

accuse us of driving like saints, that was on a long run across the country, using motorways, main roads, and in town, with lots of stuff in the boot, and all seats filled.

Oh, and with the air conditioning going too.

Such long-range fuel economy means that you can potentially end up spending quite a lot of time behind the wheel of your A-Class, but thankfully that’s no chore. Whereas the previous A had a cabin that looked a felt a bit cheap in places, this one instantly takes the top spot in the cabin design charts for five door hatchbacks. Mercedes has binned a conventional dashboard altogether and replaced it with a big digital plank that contains both a screen for the instruments, and another for the infotainment system. It looks amazing (especially if you spec it up with the larger 10.25-inch infotainment screen) and while it can be a bit complex to use at first, with a bit of practice it gets easier.

It’s never less than impressive, though, and that’s backed up by the rest of the cabin. The front seats are supportive and comfortable, and while space in the back isn’t necessarily class-leading, it’s more than decent, and the boot is good too.

For something as overtly luxurious, the A-Class is pretty practical.

It’s a bit of a shame that it’s not as much fun to drive as it could be, though, While

FACTS & FIGURES: Model tested: Mercedes-Benz A 180 d Pricing: €39,845 as tested range starts rom €31,600 Engine: 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder diesel Transmission: seven-speed automatic, front-wheel drive Body style: five-door, five-seat hatchback CO2 emissions: 111g/km (Band A4, €200 per annum) Combined economy: 62.7mpg (4.5 litres/100km) Top speed: 202km/h 0-100km/h: 10.5 seconds Power: 116hp at 4,000rpm Torque: 260Nm at 1,750-2,500rpm Boot: 370 litres (seats up); 1,210 litres (seats down) EuroNCAP Rating: Not yet tested

the rival BMW 1 Series (with its rearwheel drive chassis) will have you out of bed early on a Sunday morning looking for twisty roads, the A-Class feels less fun.

It’s fine, with nicely weighted steering and good overall balance, but avoid the larger optional alloy wheels and the ‘Lowered Comfort Suspension’ as these induce too much bump-thump on poor roads. More of a cruiser than a sports hatch, then, but there are sportier models yet to come — the new 300hp turbo A35 AMG for a start…

I do think it’s a pity that Mercedes never got the incredibly clever original A-Class to click with the buying public, but if conventional is what sells, then the new A-Class is at the cutting edge of conventionality. Decent to drive, roomy, frugal, and with that amazing cabin, it’s going straight to the top of the class.

30 MOTORING

THURSDAY, NOV 1 2018

FORD’S NEW TECH COULD MAKE RED LIGHT OBSOLETE

I

NEW SYSTEMS COULD ALLOW CARS TO TELL EACH OTHER WHEN THEY’RE APPROACHING A JUNCTION

MAGINE a world where negotiating busy junctions does not require you to wait at a red light and the only reason to stop your car is because you have arrived at your destination.

Ford is trialling a new way in which connected car technology could set us

Intersection Priority Management (IPM) – being demonstrated this week on the streets of Milton Keynes, UK.as part of the government-funded UK Autodrive programme – aims to keep drivers driving and bring an end to unnecessary stops at junctions, both easing traffic flow

lNO NEED FOR RED LIGHTS: Ford’s latest tech will make your vehivle more safe at junctions

on that journey – and that takes its lead from how humans negotiate their way through busy crowds, by slowing down or speeding up to avoid collisions, without coming to a standstill.

and increasing safety and efficiency.

“We know that intersections and traffic lights can be a real bugbear for many drivers,” said Christian Ress, supervisor, Driver Assist Technologies, Ford

Research and Advanced Engineering.

“With the connected car technology we have been demonstrating this week, we envisage a world where vehicles are more aware of each other and their environment, enabling intelligent cooperation and collaboration on the roads – and around junctions.”

Every year, the average driver spends two days waiting at traffic lights. And not only can junctions be frustrating – they are also the cause of up to 60 per cent of road traffic accidents. As well as saving time, avoiding stopping at junctions could also save fuel, as drivers avoid braking and accelerating away from the lights.

IPM uses vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communications to coordinate with other vehicles in the vicinity and suggests optimum speeds that will allow cars to safely pass by each other at intersections without coming to a halt.

For the trial, test cars have been equipped with V2V communication systems that broadcast the vehicles’ location, direction of travel and speed. The onboard IPM systems are able to identify an upcoming junction and the trajectory of other vehicles approaching it. It will then suggest an optimum speed for each vehicle as they approach the junction that will allow them pass through safely.

The vehicles in the trial have people behind the wheel, but it is envisaged that autonomous vehicles could also benefit

from the technology. Automating how vehicles negotiate junctions with each other in this way that may mean that, one day, vehicles could pass through safely and efficiently without the need for traffic lights or road signs. While today’s autonomous vehicles operate independently using the sensor technologies and map data on board, V2V and vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communications technologies could benefit the driverless cars of the future.

IPM builds upon other connected-car technologies developed by Ford and its project partners as part of UK Autodrive, a £20 million programme taking self-driving and connected car technologies from the test track to the streets.

Among the technologies showcased during the two-year programme – which comes to an end this week – are Intersection Collision Warning, which alerts drivers of potential accidents when approaching an intersection, and Green Light Optimal Speed Advisory (GLOSA), which helps cars to synchronise with nearby traffic lights to help them avoid getting stuck on red.

Other features demonstrated include Collaborative Parking – which builds a crowd-sourced map of a car park’s available spaces – and Emergency Vehicle Warning, where drivers are advised of the location and distance of an approaching emergency vehicle.

NEW CITROEN WEBSITE CITROEN IRELAND LAUNCHES CONVENIENT WEBSITE TO BOOK SERVICING ONLINE

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ITROEN Ireland is delighted to announce the launch of a new service website, www.citroenservice.ie. The new website enables customers to book their service online with their local authorised Citroen Dealership and receive a precise quote in advance of their service.

The new website is all about providing customers with a convenient and fast way to book in their vehicle’s service. By booking online customers can avail of exclusive service offers including free bulb replacement and free technical updates and health checks for their vehicle.

Services are carried out by Citroen’s specially trained technicians using the latest Citroen diagnos-

tic equipment. Customers can enjoy added peace of mind with one-year warranty on all parts and accessories purchased through Citroen’s Aftersales Dealers and three months workmanship warranty on all repairs.

Joseph Greene, Aftersales Manager, Citroen Ireland, commented, “We are delighted to launch our new service website for our customers.

“Our main aim is to make the service process as convenient and straight forward as possible and through the new website customers can book a service for a date and time that suits them.

“They will also receive a quote for their service in advance and can also avail of the exclusive online offers too.”

32

SPORT

Martin Daly GAA ANALYSIS

THURSDAY, NOV 1 2018

Football analyst Martin Daly says that Ennistymon’s county championship success began with a group of men on a running track in Cooraclare in January

Untouchable Miltown

St Joseph’s Miltown 0-14 Ennistymon 0-08

ural scorers like Eoin Cleary who can throw the ball over from 40 yards. If you want to win titles you need to be able to kick scores from 45 yards out both from frees and from play, and they didn’t seem to have that in their armoury.

Clare SFC final At Cusack Park, Sunday

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NITIALLY a nervy game, this year’s senior county football final was ultimately further evidence of what many already suggested. St Joseph’s Miltown Malbay are comfortably the best football side in Clare. Not one question lingers on that front; there were no flukes or scrapes this year.

You’d have to go back to January – at least – to understand why. The running track in Cooraclare set the scene for much of Miltown’s early pre-season work when 20-odd panellists were putting in the hard work. It’s not unusual to see a club approach the season in this manner; but where many sessions would be made up of a mix of junior and senior players, Miltown’s first 15 committed to doing the hard yards in the late winter. The player buy-in reflected the ‘professionalism’ put in place by the management set-up, reflective of an intercounty set-up. St Joseph’s have dieticians, fitness and performance specialists, sports psychologists, and recruited specialists from outside their set-up to take training sessions. While you can put all these things in place for players – any club can dig deep into their pocket – you need players in place willing to make the most of it. What we saw on Sunday at Cusack Park, amongst everything else, was their untouchable fitness levels and ultimately their just rewards. It’s a credit to them. Their club should be very proud of what they’ve achieved and the manner they did it in.

Facing Ennistymon on Sunday, St Joseph’s were uncharacteristically nervy to begin which you’d expect under the weight of being overwhelming favourites in a county final. They sat back and invited Ennistymon onto them which isn’t their normal game. You could see from the word go that they were nervous. Forwards drifted back and at some early stages they had up to 14 people behind the ball all deep in their own half.

That’s not taking away from Ennistymon’s mighty start. The underdogs were running directly at Miltown from half-back and midfield and deservedly got a head start on the scoreboard. Joe Dowling threw over three of Ennistymon’s first four points and they were really putting it up to Miltown for the first 15, 20 minutes. But then, Miltown adjusted. First they grew into the game and as the second half arrived, they put the boot down and didn’t look back. Two points up at half time, they finally reverted to what they’re good at – doggedly defending and persistent pressuring from the front. For want of a better phrase, they broke Ennistymon. The North Clare men were left without a supply route from short kick-outs and Miltown were mopping up and slotting over with ease. And there are plenty of Miltown men with the ability to do that from all angles, not just the sublime Eoin Cleary. Malone, Murray, McDonagh; they each popped up with a couple of impressive scores.

LEADING FROM THE FRONT I spoke about leadership in last week’s column and Miltown’s first score was from

MUNSTER AWAITS Next up for St Joseph’s is an away Munster semi-final and just because you’re playing a Limerick or Waterford side it doesn’t mean it’s going to be. However Miltown are mentally in a very good place. They won a club championship three years ago, their first in a long time having come up from intermediate and they had a good week of celebration. This week they were back training on Tuesday night in the knowledge it will be another step-up to reach a Munster final. But by all accounts that’s their target – to perform well in Munster. With their fitness levels and ability being up there with the best of them, they’ll want to prove that on a Munster stage.

l WORTHY CHAMPS: Evergreen St Joseph’s captain Gordon Kelly proudly lifts the Jack Daly Cup and (below) Miltown man celebrate the final whistle Photos by Martin Connolly Eoin Cleary on the left-hand touchline, where he banged it through the middle of the posts. He scored 0-5 for a finish and seems to be a big leader for them up front.

And when he can look around to guys like Keavy, Malone and Conor Cleary in the half-forward line, and the likes of Gordon Kelly inside who, I swear it’s younger the man is getting. At one stage he lost the ball and chased down a younger man 20 yards to take the ball off him and motor up the field again. In his mid-30s, what he’s made up of, it is exceptional and filters through the entire set-up.

Ennistymon for their part were unlucky not to be closer. If they had taken their goal chances it would have been a much different scoreline, even though I believe Miltown had an extra gear in their locker if it came to that. At one stage Miltown outscored Ennistymon by 10 scores to two which is huge but it was never easy because Ennistymon kept creating decent chances for both points and goals which kept the pressure on Miltown. The problem was, they weren’t converting enough. On that front, you can either praise the Miltown keeper for three or four great saves or blame the Ennistymon forwards for not being lethal enough in front of goal.

Ennistymon took those chances against Éire Og and Kilmurry; going 10 or 15 minutes without a score doesn’t seem to phase Ennistymon because of their goalscoring ability but it didn’t happen the last day.

They had five decent opportunities for goal.

Three of them were one-on-ones with the keeper and you have to take at least one of those. That was the difference because

we knew they weren’t going to score 14 or 15 points. Ennistymon lack a man to spearhead their attack. They rely a lot on Joe Dowling who, despite still being in great shape, is well on the wrong side of 30. He scored three great points in the beginning, three of their first four, two with his right and one with his left. You could make a case that a free he dropped short from 30 yards out, which would have put Ennistymon three points up, was a turning point. They know they need those crucial scores because they haven’t got the nat-

St Joseph’s Miltown: Sean O’Brien; Aidan McGuane, Enda O’Gorman, Eoin O’Brien; Colin Hehir (0-01), Gordon Kelly (Captain), Jamesie O’Connor; Oisin Looney, Conor Cleary; Kevin Keavey, Brian Curtin, Kieran Malone (0-03); Eoin Cleary (0-05, 0-02f), Darragh McDonagh (0-02), Cormac Murray (0-02) Subs: Eoin Curtin (0-01) for Keavey (40), Euan Reidy for O’Connor (51), Sean Malone for Murray (61), Seanie Malone for McGuane (63) Ennistymon: Noel Sexton; Laurence Healy, Sean O’Driscoll (Captain), Adam Ralph; Kevin Hehir, Enda Ralph, Sean Rouine; Cathal Malone, David Fitzgerald; Michael Leigh, Michael McDonagh, Willie Murphy; Joe Dowling (0-05, 0-02f), Sean McConigley, Joey Rouine (0-01) Subs: Aaron McNulty (0-02, 0-01f) for J. Rouine (39), Cian Shannon for Leigh (45), Ross O’Doherty for McDonagh (55), Michael Houlihan for S. Rouine (60, inj) Referee: Jim Hickey (Cratloe)

SPORT 33

THURSDAY, NOV 1 2018

Jumping Jack gets the gold JACK Conlon Gateau has returned to Clare with a Team Gold in his pocket from the English Home Pony International Show.

Clare based Showjumper Jack had a successful week in Cheshire with his ponies taking 128 Team Gold (under 12s) with his teammates, Senan Reape, Aine Shortall & Paddy Reape.

The English Home Pony International (HPI) Show is one of four International shows held each year in England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales to allow young pony riders – from u10 up to u16 – to compete against their peers in other countries for the HPI titles. Hundreds of ponies and riders from the four nations competed in Southview Equestrian Centre over 5 days.

After two days of qualifiers Jack made it on to the 128 and 138 Irish teams for the end of week head to head between the best riders and ponies from each nation. He won

one of the qualifiers (out of 49 starters) with his RDS Reserve Champion, the pony stallion Blaengwen Kato Star and came 5th in the other qualifier with his mare, Uquam D’emery. Jack made the 138 team with a new French pony, River de la Courance, a super result for a new combination.

The 128 team won the HPI title with an unbeatable 0 faults over two rounds of jumping while the 138 team were pushed in to second place by a strong English team even though they had just one fence down between the four riders.

Jack said; “It was a very exciting week for me and my family. It was a long journey by road, ferry and road again to make it to Southview but the event was such good fun and the competition so exciting. Any time you get to hear the national anthem after winning is just amazing, and to get to do that in England with super team mates was fantastic.”

l JUMPING FOR JOY: Clare-based showjumper Jack Conlon Gateau at the event in Southview where he was part of a winning Irish team

Photo courtesy Landscapes & Horses

Tradraí’s 35th edition launch

NEWMARKET-on-Fergus GAA will launch the 35th edition of Tradraí this Friday.

Packed with photographs, fascinating features and interviews with some of the biggest names in the GAA, Tradraí is a perfect publication for individuals with an appreciation of their history and the GAA. Unsung heroes of the GAA are celebrated in the latest annual such as sports photographers, mothers and wives of club

officers and players, Primary Game participants as well as a long-serving club player forced to retire due to injury and how he has adjusted to life post-playing.

For the first time in print, the story of the infamous 1962 Clare Cup Final between Sixmilebridge and Newmarket-on-Fergus is told and it is revealed whether or not graves were dug on the Kilkishen pitch over 50 years ago.

As this is the 35th edition, Tradraí has gone all out with more

content than ever before with superb reads on every single page.

Edited by Páraic McMahon, works are also included by Colm Liddy, Annmarie Meehan, Triona Marren O’Grady, Con Woods and Caitriona Jones.

Copies will be on sale after the launch for €7 in local stores and pubs. Friday’s launch throws in at 8pm in The Clubhouse with special guests on hand plus music and dance, all are welcome to attend.

The Scorecard in association with

ENNIS GOLF CLUB Ladies Results

Bernie Brooks Margaret Flanagan 52 1/6

9 HOLE S/F Wednesday 24th October 2018

WOODSTOCK GOLF CLUB

1st Peggy Costello (21) 15 pts Senior Ladies Tuesday 23rd October 2018 Results from Castletroy 1st Loretto Torpey Emmanuel McMahon Mary McMahon 49 1/3 2nd Mary Leahy Eileen Corry Mary Murray Phil Butler 50 1/5 3rd Nuala D’Auria Ann O’Loughlin Claire Ruane 50 5/6 4th Mary Lenihan

l DAD’S THE WORD: St Joseph’s footballer Graham Kelly with his son and daughter Zach and Miah after winning the county final at Cusack Park last weekend

Photo by Martin Connolly

Results Club Singles 27 & 28/10/18 1. Brian Gilligan(0) 38pts 2. Gerry Kelly(6) 37pts CSS To Follow 3 person Scramble 28/10/18 1. Brendan Neylon(7) , Shane Power(14) & Matt Power(25) 59.25 nett CSS N/A

34 CLASSIFIEDS

THURSDAY, NOV 1 2018

Classifieds ACCOUNTANCY

BOOKKEEPING

CONTACT SALES

065 671 9021 sales@clareecho.ie

CLEANING

CLEANING & POWER WASHING

CAR REPAIRS

mbs-clare-echo.indd 1

17/09/2018 20:10:50

CONSTRUCTION CAR REPAIRS

GRINDS AVAILABLE - ENGLISH English lessons available for leaving cert and junior cycle students. Home Tuition. TEL: 0877793132

CLASSIFIEDS 35

THURSDAY, NOV 1 2018

Classifieds DRIVING LESSONS

GOLF

CONTACT SALES

065 671 9021 sales@clareecho.ie

PAINTING

MEMBERSHIP OFFER! CONTACT GERRY FOR MORE INFO:

065-682-4074 | info@ennisgolfclub.ie WWW.ENNISGOLFCLUB.IE

FIREWOOD

GRINDS WANTED - GERMAN GERMAN GRINDS Teacher required For 5th year student OL leaving certificate, Ennis area.

CONTACT: Tom on 087 755 1554

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

The Clare Echo Classifieds Contact 065 671 9021

PROPERTY FOR SALE PAINTING & DECORATING

36 CLASSIFIEDS

THURSDAY, NOV 1 2018

Classifieds PHOTOGRAPHY

The Clare Echo Classifieds

Contact 065 671 9021

CONTACT SALES

065 671 9021 sales@clareecho.ie

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STORAGE

TARMACADAM

THURSDAY, NOV 1 2018

Classifieds TREE SURGEON

WEBSITE FOR RENT

WINDOW SHUTTERS

CLASSIFIEDS 37 CONTACT SALES

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38 CROSSWORD/HOROSCOPES

THURSDAY, NOV 1 2018

Your Horoscopes Nov 1 TRAVEL is on your mind right now, so much so that it might be causing some real problems in your everyday life. If your mind is distracted from your daily tasks because you’re daydreaming about far-off lands or tropical beaches, you need to take some time to get this wanderlust out of your system. If you can’t book your dream vacation, buy a travel magazine or visit an exotic ethnic restaurant.

Taurus

Gemini

YOU are long overdue for a heart-to-heart with one of your closest friends! Make a sincere effort today to get with her or him, or at least schedule a date. The two of you have some catching up to do. You might not have noticed, but there has been a great deal of stress building in you -- you are preoccupied with something that this person can help you sort out (and that only this person should hear).

THERE have been too many misunderstandings going on in your social circle lately, and this could be holding you back from relaxation. You have two choices today: you can either get face-to-face with the person who’s confusing you and finally get to the bottom of things, or move on to a different set of social partners. There’s nothing wrong with taking a break from people who are rubbing you the wrong way.

Cancer

Leo

Virgo

THE simplest things will spark complex philosophizing today. If you notice a weed growing through the cracks in a sidewalk, you may suddenly start thinking about humankind’s struggles to overcome oppression. If a child grins and reveals a missing front tooth, your thoughts will turn to the folklore of the tooth fairy. Your brain is ready to go off on tangents in order to feed a curiosity that is new to you.

Let yourself explore random ideas.

MONEY may make the world go ‘round, but it doesn’t have any place in your day today. Try to avoid any financial dealings -- especially those that involve friends. There is a lot of uncertainty around transactions and investments right now, and you would be much better off if you delay such things until another day. You are entitled to be a lot more frugal than you may think you are. Money is a personal issue -your wallet is your business and no one else’s.

YOU are definitely going to be the smartest brain in the room today, but you will have to pull a humble act and not let on that you know best. You cannot be too vocal about your opinions -- nor should you be critical of others. There are some very fragile egos around you -- who unfortunately hold a great deal of control over your immediate future. Playing politics isn’t always an unpleasant task, especially if you end up feeling more confident at the end of the day.

Libra

Scorpio

Sagittarius

Capricorn

Aquarius

Pisces

IF an unexpected request interrupts your meticulously organized daily routine today. Welcome it! You will have no problem handling an unexpected task -- in fact, taking on this challenge will significantly elevate your mood. And whether you’re helping your boss draft a report, giving a sibling a ride to the airport, or just helping a friend pick out a new pair of jeans, your assistance will make somebody very grateful.

THIS day will be full of unique events that will inspire your creativity. Write out your feelings -- in a letter to yourself, to someone you’re trying to get to know better, or to someone who’s getting on your last nerve. You have a wonderful way with words, and an eloquent letter could be just what’s needed to resolve a difficult situation. Your message will help clarify a path forward -- and will illuminate the necessary next steps.

1/1

Aries

IT’S playtime today! You will be surrounded by people who have a real zest for life -- and you should let their energy rub off on you. If you can relax and let them call the shots, you will end up enjoying yourself more than you could have hoped. Letting go of control is part of achieving the magic, and there is no denying that there is a special energy around you today.

YOUR wallet won’t get any fatter if you follow that growing urge to spend today. Keep walking by those store windows full of gorgeous clothes that you’re just dying to put into your closet. It’s time to remind yourself about the difference between wanting something and needing it. This applies to your personal life, too. Are you demanding too much from the people around you right now? If you want more attention, you should start by giving more attention.

The Clare Echo Crossword

ACROSS 1 Vehicle I got rid of has ceased to exist (8) 6 Reportedly, not the whole amount (3) 9 Little dog heard showing resentment (5) 10 A bad driver turned up (7) 11 Displayed -like freerange eggs? (4,3) 13 Group of soldiers or police capturing rebel leader (5) 14 In supermarkets we desire vegetables (6) 15 Bear backing old English bird (6) 19 Father has directions for religious leaders (5) 21 Redhead in undies prepared to get covered (7) 22 Fancy drink with attitude (7) 23 Vessel that may be

THINGS have calmed down a bit in your life, so today is a very good time to start thinking about new places you want to go and new things you want to do. Look to the people you greatly admire for guidance, and they will inspire you. If you start to feel drawn to humanitarian activities, go with it! To keep yourself happy and engaged with life, you have to keep expanding your horizons.

THIS day will be full of unique events that will inspire your creativity. Write out your feelings -- in a letter to yourself, to someone you’re trying to get to know better, or to someone who’s getting on your last nerve. You have a wonderful way with words, and an eloquent letter could be just what’s needed to resolve a difficult situation. Your message will help clarify a path forward -- and will illuminate the necessary next steps.

put in bin? (5) 24 Paddle in middle of boat, right? (3) 25 Joint action - worm turning in wood (8) DOWN 2 Get to hear a group of singers (7) 3 Chiller regularly seen in kitchen (3) 4 Male star’s tailored suit (6) 5 It records new board members (9) 6 Seafront always cut off (5) 7 Legendary king put girl’s name in manuscript (5) 8 An enchanter uses these periods (6) 12 Go too far, having finished with new growth (9) 16 Colleague who may be sleeping? (7) 17 Go on stomach (6)

18 Pictures of social centre given new name (6) 19 Italian sauce made from ripest olives? (5)

20 It’s constant for each musician (5) 23 Sound of cow that’s depressed (3)

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

QUIZ 39

THURSDAY, NOV 1 2018

The Clare Echo Quiz

CLARE FOLKLORE & HISTORY 1 6 15-year-old Ellen Scanlan, known as Cailín Bán, was brutally murdered on her husband’s command in which Clare location in 1819?

(a)Kilshanny (b)Killaloe (c)Kilrush

What was King Brian Ború doing in his tent when assassinated by the fleeing Viking leader, Bródar?

(a)Sleeping (b)Singing (c)Praying

According to local legend Maire Co Clare currently has a popu2 Rua killed her third husband 7 lation of almost 120,000 but how Cornet John Cooper, a Cromwellian many lived in the Banner County

(a)A mermaid (b)A merman (c)A donkey

In 1956 blasphemy was used as a 8 defence for an attack by religious and State officials on two Jehovah’s Witnesses who had been calling from house to house in which village

(a)Clonlara (b)Clarecastle (c)Corofin

In June 1864, a woman by the In 1579, the Governor of Con4 name of Mrs Corbett was cured of 9 naught was directed by Queen what at Scattery Island after sleepElizabeth to pick between Ennis and ing on St Senan’s grave?

(a)Paralysis (b)Tuberculosis (c)Syphilis

5

According to a British survey on Co Clare in 1808, it was custom for the women to (a)Crawl alongside their husband (b)walk some distance behind their husbands (c) ride on their husband’s backs when they grew tired

l QUESTION 1: 15-year-old Ellen Scanlan, known as Cailín Bán, was brutally murdered on her husband’s command in which Clare location in 1819?

ANSWERS

which two other towns as the capital town of Clare?

(a)Kilrush and Shannon (b)Clarecastle and Kilrush (c)Killaloe and Quin

Which town, according to leg10 end, was founded on the spot where the tooth of the patron saint, Mochonna, fell out?

6. (c) Praying 7. (a) 286,000 8. (a) Clonlara 9. (c) Killaloe and Quin 10.(b) Feakle

According to local folklore, who was stabbed at Newhall House, 3 leading to Killone Lake being cursed

before the Great Famine of 1845-47.

(a)286,000 (b)153,000 (c)91,000

1. (c) Kilrush 2. (b) by throwing him out the window of Leamaneh Castle 3.(a) a Mermaid 4. (a) Paralysis 5. (b) walk some distance behind their husbands

soldier, by

(a)Stabbing him in the heart after catching him with a maid (b)by throwing him out the window of Leamaneh Castle (c)poisoning his apple juice

(a)Kilmihil (b)Feakle (c)Bodyke

OLD IMAGES OF COUNTY CLARE

Cappa Pier, Kilrush.

Image NLI.ie / Collection: Lawrence Photograph Collection

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