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Nov 2 2023

HATS OFF TO HANNAH

‘I’m still afraid to cycle where my husband died’

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

l Pictured at the recent Mary Immaculate College conferring ceremony were Hannah O’Reilly from Scarriff, Co Clare with her niece Sophia

Photo by Don Moloney

A NORTH Clare widow has said she is still afraid to cycle on the road where her late husband was killed.

Helga Himmeslbach for the past three months has been campaigning for improved road safety in North Clare and increased signage to alert tourists as to which side of the road they are to drive on.

Her husband Jerry O’Connor from Lisdoonvara was killed when travelling on a motorbike in Ballyvaughan at the end of July.

Helga was part of a delegation that met with Clare County Council Director of Services, Leonard Cleary on Wednesday afternoon in Ennistymon.

Speaking in Ennistymon, Helga admitted, “I’m still frightened of my life to cycle passed the place where Jerry was knocked down because it is still not safe”.

She said, “There is still an unprecedented amount of rental and tourist cars on the road, to a degree that you still can’t walk or cycle safely”.

Full story Page 4

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Thursday, Nov 2, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

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CONTENTS

NEWS .............................2-17 COLUMNISTS ..............18-19 ...........20-21 BUSINESS ...................24-25 GREEN CLARE SPORT..........................26-29

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kieran@clareecho.ie ross@clareecho.ie denise@clareecho.ie This publication supports the work of the Press Council of Ireland and Office of the Press Ombudsman, and our staff operate within the Press Council’s Code of Practice. You can obtain a copy of the Code, or contact the Press Council, at www.presscouncil.ie, Lo-call 1890 208 080 or email: info@presscouncil.ie

Che Guevara’s lighter bought in Shannon to go on auction

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A LIGHTER bought by Che Guevara in Shannon Airport is among the historical memorabilia to form part of an online auction this month.

Guevara’s lucky Irish lighter which was purchased in 1965 has a guide price of €2,300 at Gormleys Signature Sale which brings together key figures from Irish and international history, as well as items from pop culture and runs online until November 14th.

When the flight he was travelling on from Prague to Havana diverted to Shannon with engine trouble, Che bought the lighter in the duty-free store and later called it his lucky Irish lighter.

He used the lighter until after his unsuccessful rebellion campaign in the Congo in 1966, at which point he gave it to Fidel Castro’s mistress, Natty Revuelta Clews, telling her it was not so lucky.

This lighter will be auctioned alongside a remarkable array of items, which includes the Bible Michael Collins had with him when he was assassinated, a newly discovered copy of Wolfe Tone’s speech from the dock and Phil Lynott’s bass guitar.

Guide prices for Collins’ Bible are between €21,000 and €25,000, the original of Theobald Wolfe Tone’s speech from the dock during his trial for treason in 1798 has an estimated value of €23,000 to €29,000.

A rare first edition of Ulysses is also featured in the auction, with a guide price of €25,000€29,000.

Among the modern auction items is Phil Lynott’s bass guitar from the C ­ hinatown album era which has a guide price of between €17,000 and €23,000.

Viewings will take place at Gormleys, Dublin from November 2-5, and at Gormleys, Belfast, from November 9-11.

Considered one of the major figures of the Cuban Revolu-

l LUCK OF THE IRISH: Che Guevara’s lighter and (inset) the Cuban revolutionary

tion, Guevera has further links to Co Clare, he visited the Marine Hotel in Kilkee in the summer of 1962, on a stopover between Moscow and Cuba.

Two of Guevara’s notable

18th century ancestors included Luis María Peralta, a prominent Spanish landowner in colonial California, and Patrick Lynch, who emigrated from Ireland to the Río de la Plata Governorate.

Fifth Horan tractor run held THE fifth annual Tractor Run for Tony Horan took place in Bridgetown on Sunday, writes Adam Maloney.

Locals and residents from across East Clare attended the memorial tractor run which was held across the Bank Holiday weekend.

For a period of 16 years from 2002 until his death in February 2018, Tony Horan ran ‘Tony’s Bar’ in Bridgetown. His daughter Rosemarie Stuart is now responsible for running the pub.

Tony was a carpenter by trade, in the late 1960s he turned his hand to butchering and opened his own business. This led to him buying land and farming as a sideline.

A wide-variety of vehicles descended on Bridgetown for the run with motorbikes, tractors, vintage cars and tractors all passing through the village. A pet farm, magician, face painting and auction were among the other highlights for the run.

Embrace Farm, a charity which supports those who are injured, bereaved or experience loss on farms benefitted from all funds raised from the tractor run.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Nov 2, 2023

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Thursday, Nov 2, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

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‘I’m still afraid to cycle on the road where my husband died’

l SAFETY: Helga Himmelsbach was joined in remembrance of her late husband Jerry

A NORTH Clare widow has said she is still afraid to cycle on the road where her late husband was killed.

Twenty two people were present outside the Ennistymon offices of Clare County Council at lunchtime on Wednesday where they carried candles in memory of Jerry O’Connor, a Lisdoonvarna man who was killed outside Ballyvaughan at the end of July.

All four North Clare councillors, Cllr Shane Talty (FF), Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG), Cllr Joe Killeen (FF) and Cllr Liam Grant (GP) were in attendance.

Helga Himmelsbach, Jerry’s widow said, “there is still an unprecedented amount of rental and tourist cars on the road, to a degree that you still can’t walk or cycle safely”.

When visiting Co Kerry, she noted “the amount of road signage is unbelievable, you compare it to Clare and there is nothing yet we have nearly overtaken Kerry with our tourist numbers”.

Buses and camper vans are not deterred from traversing routes such as Corkscrew Hill, “we have more buses and cars on the road because of the Cliffs,” she added.

“I’m here for my reason but I’m also here as an avid cyclist, I’m still frightened of my life to cycle passed the place where Jerry was knocked down because it is still not safe,” Helga admitted.

Both her and Jerry purchased electric bikes due to their awareness of carbon emissions, she recounted. “To be intimidated to cycle is a very poor reflection of the

management of our county, 99 per cent of our tourism is carbon and I haven’t heard of any constructive methods to veer away from carbon tourism”.

She continued, “I would hope there is swift action. I will definitely not go away. I will be there pushing from behind, it is unfathomable why Clare is so resistant to implement very practical advice”.

Chairperson of the North Clare Community Group, Tom Barrett commented, “all of us share this sense of grief, the loss of a friend and a family member”.

He acknowledged that efforts are ongoing at Government level “to reduce speed limits on every type of road in North Clare”. He added, “the Government has done something which impacts the entire country and in a real sense a mark of respect to all families and people who lost those lives”.

He explained, “what we have said to Clare County Council is there are many examples of best practice, we have specifically chosen Kerry as an example, we are not asking you to be miracle workers and do what hasn’t been done before, we’re asking for best practice”.

Sustainable tourism and the support for this principle by elected representatives was acknowledged by Tom. A delegation of the group in attendance held a meeting with Clare County Council Director of Service, Leonard Cleary along with Cllr Talty, Cllr Killeen and Cllr Grant which commenced at 1pm on Wednesday.

Ennistymon man pleads guilty to dangerous driving causing death of Lisdoonvarna woman

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A 39-YEAR OLD Ennistymon man has pleaded guilty to the dangerous driving causing the death of Stephanie Fitzpatrick on the main road leading to the seaside resort of Lahinch last year.

At Ennis Circuit Court, Damian McNamara of Lissatunna, Ennistymon pleaded guilty to the dangerous driving causing the death of Ms Fitzpatrick at Cloonaveigh, Lahinch Rd, Ennistymon on Saturday, February 19th last year.

Ms Fitzpatrick was a front seat passenger in the 05-D registered car being driven by Mr McNamara at the time of the fatal road crash.

Mr McNamara also pleaded guilty to ‘drink driving’ from the same location on the same date and members of Ms Fitzpatrick’s family, accompanied by a Garda liaison officer, were

in court for the arraignment.

Counsel for Mr McNamara, Michael Collins SC (inst by solicitor Daragh Hassett) said that Mr McNamara was in a relationship with Ms Fitzpatrick at the time and said that there are sensitivities on both sides.

The case was listed for trial on Wednesday and a jury was due to be impanelled.

Mr Collins said that he wanted the court to note that prior to the case coming into any court call-over, his client had formally offered a guilty plea to the offence of careless driving causing death.

Mr Collins said that this was a lesser charge than the one his client was facing and a potential alternative verdict if the case had gone to trial but was deemed not acceptable by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

Mr Collins said, “I make the point to show that Mr McNamara at all times has recognised his moral and legal culpability in this matter”.

Mr Collins said that the case was initially listed for Tuesday and adjourned to Wednesday and certain developments took place on Tuesday and Mr McNamara had now entered his two guilty pleas.

Mr Collins asked that sentencing take place on a court call over day on December 15th and said that “it would be in ease of everyone that the matter be concluded as soon as possible. It is a particularly tragic case - for all concerned”.

Counsel for the State, Lorcan Connolly BL (instructed by State Solicitor for Clare, Aisling Casey) said that it is in everyone’s interest that sentencing take place in early course but that he was instructed to say that the month of December may not be the best month for sentencing with its closeness to Christmas.

Judge Francis Comerford said that this is a case where a person, Stephanie Fitzpatrick has died “and obviously these are the most

serious cases to be dealt with by the courts”.

He said, “I don’t think it would not be appropriate to list it for December 15th because there will be a lot of other work done that day and it is better that this case be given its own clear hearing date because of its seriousness”.

Judge Comerford did state it would be better that the case be dealt with earlier rather than later.

Mr Connolly said that the case could be listed for December 15th to fix a date for sentence.

Mr Connolly said that a victim impact statement will form part of the sentencing hearing.

He said that the State has no objection to Mr McNamara being formally remanded on continuing bail to December 15th.

Ms Fitzpatrick was part of a large and well known family from Doolin Road, Lisdoonvarna in North Clare.

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Thursday, Nov 2, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

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Damage caused to Daniel O’Connell Monument in Ennis

On patrol at Crescent Shopping Centre The Family Fun at Fifty - Paw Patrol Live’ event on Monday, 30 October saw special guest, children’s TV presenter and Limerick native Emma O’Driscoll MC an event with Paw Patrol characters, Chase and Marshall. This event included live Pup Pup Buggy shows, each running for fifteen minutes as well as ‘meet & greets’ with the PAW Patrol characters Chase and Marshell. Photographed at the event were Aidan and Sinead Corry, Scariff with their children Donnacha (2) and Aoibheann (7 months).

44 scrambler bikes detained

FORTY-FOUR scrambler bikes and off-road vehicles were seized by Gardaí in a planned operation across Limerick City with five people arrested, writes Páraic McMahon.

Over recent months, men on such bikes who have been described by a Clare TD as “drug mules” were driving without helmets and wearing balaclavas across South Clare and Limericl City. As part of ongoing operations by Gardaí in Limerick City targeting dangerous driving and anti-social behaviour incidents associated with the use of scrambler bikes and other off-road vehicles, a planned operation took place this week.

A total of 21 searches were carried out at locations across Limerick City on Tuesday and Wednesday. This was coordinated by Limerick City South (Roxboro Road) and Limerick City North (Henry Street) Community Engagement Functional Areas.

In their efforts, 44 scrambler bikes and off-road vehicles were seized. Five individuals were arrested as part of ongoing investigations for suspected endangerment and dangerous driving and other related matters.

Thirty Gardaí were involved in the operation with additional support from the Armed Support Unit (ASU), and was planned and coordinated by Limerick City South (Roxboro Road) and Limerick City North (Henry Street) Community Engagement Functional Areas, through ongoing collaborative policing initiatives between the two areas.

Clare TD, Cathal Crowe (FF) has previously highlighted the matter in Dáil Éireann and attempted to do so at meetings of the Clare Joint Policing Committee. He told The Clare Echo, “I am glad that An Garda Síochána have robustly gotten to grips with this problem. For too many months thugs wearing balaclavas have been menacingly driving scrambler bikes, in full public view, through communities in South Clare and Limerick City,” Deputy Crowe added.

DAMAGE to the Daniel O’Connell Monument has been reported and has undone some of the “extensive refurbishment” works completed in Ennis two years ago, writes Páraic McMahon.

Earthing rods which were placed on the historic monument to protect it from strikes of lightning have been ripped off, causing both a safety hazard but also placing it at risk in the event that lightning does strike in the heart of the county town.

A total of €35,000 was allocated to carry out essential repairs and maintenance to the O’Connell Monument in 2021 under the Historic Structures Fund (HSF) and Built Heritage Investment Scheme (BHIS).

Works took place in June 2021, it included emergency and stabilisation works on the structure which was built in 1867 but also the addition of the earthing rods.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Cllr Johnny Flynn (FG) expressed his disgust with the damage to the monument. “It is dreadful to see such anti-social behaviour around the monument which is of such importance to the civic and political life of Ennis

and Clare. Extensive refurbishment was done to the monument to protect it two years ago and in the last twelve months two of these special earthing rods that come all the way down the side to protect it from lightning have been damaged”.

Clare County Council staff are to look at placing a permanent protection around the earthing rods to prevent a repeat event occurring.

According to Cllr Flynn, close to €100,000 was spent on the monument in recent years. “It was unsafe, earthing it to protect it from lightning would have been a significant portion of that cost because special lightning rods had to be put in at the base of the monument and two straps were brought all the way up to the top so these two straps have been vandalised and pulled away from the rod”.

Fires have also been lit in dustbins at the back of the Daniel O’Connell Monument, Cllr Flynn outlined. “It shows a lack of respect for a very important monument but it indicates that there is a significant amount of anti-social behaviour on our streets and laneways.”

Scariff pilgrimage planner impacted by war outbreak

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

‘WAR what is it good for, absolutely nothing’ is the famous line from Edwin Starr’s song released in 1970 and a tour organiser from Scariff will agree to it as further plans have had to be shelved due to the conflict.

Scariff’s James Treacy received national coverage for a dating tour he was organising to Ukraine in 2021 but the outbreak of war prompted its cancellation and for James to confirm the war “wasn’t my fault”.

COVID-19 led to the cancellation of tours to Fatima and the Holy Land in 2020, 2021 and 2022. Work was underway on returning to the Holy Land this year but war in Israel has led to these plans being scrapped.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, James reflected, “the war in Ukraine stopped me and so did the war in Israel”.

He had been confident of making a profit of €7,000 from the Ukraine tour and €4,500 from the trip to Israel but is now lamenting the financial impact of the cancellations.

James was organising the tour in conjunction with an established travel agency. He explained of his involvement, “I help to organise the trip, I suggest hotels and organise for people to get on the trip, I escort them through the Airport safely, count them all and get them onto the bus and count them when they are on the bus, I have to make sure we have all the names on the list”.

Everything doesn’t always go to plan, he admitted.

“Coming back one time, four people went missing in the Airport, they went for a meal so it wasn’t my fault, they missed the flight we were on and had to get the next flight, they missed the flight and it was their own fault, if you miss the flight it is your own fault because they are not children”.

He hopes matters will have resolved in Israel by next Christmas. “It is more volatile, it is a great place to go to if you can afford to, it is a fantastic place to go, I’ve been there seven times, we were fully booked for Christmas and we had to cancel two weeks ago, everyone has

lJames Treacy been refunded. Israel is a very fine place to visit. We would be in Bethlehem on Christmas Day which is in Palestine and I have been there five times at Christmas and on four occasions I was in midnight mass in Bethlehem on Christmas Eve. As soon as the war finishes we hope to travel again we couldn’t travel during the pandemic and now we cannot travel due to the war but hopefully next year we will be able to travel at Christmas”.

Two trips to Fatima are planned for next year, one

in Easter and one in June.

“Fatima is more guaranteed because there is no war in Portugal but it would be a disaster if there was a war in Portugal,” he said.

James continued, “Fatima is a fabulous place. We get lovely weather out there at Easter and June but it gets too hot in August for us West Europeans. We have not advertised our pilgrimage to Fatima yet because the hotels have not come back to us with a price but we do have the airline booked already for these pilgrimages”.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Nov 2, 2023

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Thursday, Nov 2, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

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Scariff Bay & RCB scoop CRAOL awards

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

lLOCAL RADIO: Scariff Bay Community Radio’s Pat O’Brien, Jim Collins and David Fleming

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CLARE community radio stations took top accolades at the CRAOL Féile.

Scariff Bay Community Radio and Raidió Corca Baiscinn both took home honours at the Craol 2023 Community Radio Ireland Achievement awards held at the Sheraton Hotel in Athlone on Thursday night.

Kinvara Community Radio also returned home with an award under their belt.

A special programme, ‘A Flavour of Lisdoonvarna’ recorded in September 2022 at the international matchmaking festival on Scariff Bay set the way for their success. This programme was presented by O’Callaghans Mills’ Pat O’Brien and Tuamgraney based lecturer, David Fleming with contributions from Anita Ryan who had been presenting an episode of ‘The Country Jukebox’ from The Rathbaun Hotel. This programme won gold in the ‘Social Benefit Talk’ category.

Efforts involved in the submission for the award were also acknowledged as Scariff Bay also picked up a ‘Standout Submission’ for the work in condensing the hour-long special into a seven minute audio package for adjudication. Tuamgraney’s Luke Fleming played a key part in this aspect.

Two silver awards were won by RCB. The Kilkee based station saw the work of three of its volunteers recognised.

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which airs daily and is presented by Máiréad O’ Higgins Finnegan and Sadhbh Smyth was acknowledged with a silver award. They talk about how they were taught the Irish language, their experiences of the language and how they now use it in everyday life. Music and lots of chat is prominent in the programme.

Kilmurry McMahon’s Michael Lorrigan who has presented Mikey’s Mix on RCB for the past seven years also brought a silver award back to West Clare. Hosted and produced by Mikey, the show features an energetic and eclectic range of music including classics, new hits and original remixes all sprinkled with Mikey’s unique humour.

Given that he had the idea to record a special from Lisdoonvarna, O’Brien who also came up with the concept for the popular ‘Local Media Show’ on Scariff Bay is proving to be the man with bright ideas in the East Clare station. “We were delighted. I said it to Jim early last year that we should go to Lisdoonvarna in September because it is a unique place.

Any other radio station in Ireland probably has no matchmaking festival, it was unique in that scenario. I was up there in my youth many times going up for weekends,” the former owner of The Blacksticks in O’Callaghans Mills commented.

Station manager of Scariff Bay, Jim Collins admitted they were surprised to scoop the standout submission award, “we did not expect that be-

cause most of the awards there were for fully licenced or ten year licensed radio stations”.

A former primary school principal, Jim praised the manner in which O’Brien and Fleming shone in Lisdoonvarna. “You need to send the right people, not everyone can go around the street in Lisdoonvarna or anywhere else and persuade people to talk to them, that is a skill in itself, the two lads exuded craic, they cornered someone and they had no escape, they used their charm to get the talk out of them”.

Recognition in the CRAOL awards is a big lift for all involved with the station, the Scariff man said. “A win like this taking the whole weekend into account and talking to other community people, I would say first of all we have a very strong sense of community here in East Clare, hopefully we tap into that community whether it is at sporting level or the musical side, it is community development with Community Council or Development Association, I think we tap into that and we feel comfortable, it is all about people and we have volunteers spread around East Clare who bring the sense of the community and the community ethos of a place. It is brilliant to win an award, we all bask in the glory and enjoyment of that, it is great to be acknowledged as doing reasonably well in something and in this case doing extremely well, we want to use that to kick on as an aspirant station”.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Nov 2, 2023

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Tony Mulcahy confident Shannon Town can elect three councillors

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A FORMER senator is confident Shannon Town can elect three county councillors at the 2024 local elections.

Tony Mulcahy’s (FG) return to politics was first reported by The Clare Echo in October, he joins Cllr John Crowe (FG) on the party’s ticket in the Shannon Municipal District for the local elections.

Shannon Town has not had three representatives on the local authority since 2009 when Mulcahy was elected alongside Patricia McCarthy (IND) and Cllr Gerry Flynn (IND).

The trio were also elected in 2004 while in 1999 Mulcahy and McCarthy were both successful alongside the late Sean Hillery (FF).

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Mulcahy expressed confidence that Shannon Town can account for three of the seven seats in the Shannon Municipal District. “We have enough votes in this area and we would have a good spread of a vote.

Mike McKee who I was very friendly with, Mike’s votes were spread a lot of Newmarket-on-Fergus, Sixmilebridge and pockets into South Clare.

“Deputy Maurice Quinlivan picked up a lot of votes in South Clare so there is a Sinn Féin vote there and I’d

imagine Donna McGettigan will do the same, if you look at the current poll she will.

“Gerry Flynn has a core vote which he has had in each election after the other. I’d imagine there is a core Fine Gael vote and there is certainly a Tony Mulcahy vote. 3,800 people vote here which is almost three quotas, it is important for a town of our size, the second biggest town in the county, we can’t have a majority of the councillors but three of them would be a bigger help. I worked with Sean Hillery and Patricia McCarthy when we had three out of five, then we had three out of six, you certainly benefit from that and when you get elected you work together”.

Cllr McGettigan has been ratified to form part of the Sinn Féin ticket in the Shannon MD alongside first-time candidate James Ryan (SF) while Cllr Flynn has yet to

outline his intentions on whether he will run for what would be his fifth local election campaign.

On the performance of the current seven Shannon MD councillors, he commented, “There is always room for improvement. I know housing is a problem and I know we’ve had a couple of local authority estates built during that period of time but there is a massive need for affordable housing for young couples.

“I’d like to have seen more of those built but there could be restrictions from Central Government preventing that from happening. The basic stuff, grass cutting, roads need a bigger push in my view. I remember when I was elected first, the engineer came to our crossing in Tullyvarraga, it had no pedestrian crossing and now there’s four on the main road as you go from St Caimin’s to the Church, when lTony Mulcahy

File photo by Joe Buckley

they say all politics is local it comes down that.

“I’d like to see more developments, we’ve seen good enough announcements in the last few weeks like the all-weather pitch but I’m not too sure what is happening, there was a public meeting on it but it has been a disaster for ten years, it should be up and running, St Senan’s are looking for a sports grant to develop their facilities into a training ground down there, those are all areas I’d have experience in working in, obviously if you have links to Government these things happen and can happen”.

Shannon Town Centre is an area that needs attention, the Newcastle West native felt. “I’d like to see the area go on again and go from strength to strength, we have fantastic people in the District, it is a big area but the key thing is if you have plenty of employment it will bring the butcher, the baker, the candle stick maker, it grows off of that. On the shopping centre, there are a lot of empty units, it is privately owned and I don’t know how it can be improved on, when I came into the Town Centre I go in via different sides depending on where I’m going, I go in through the four corners, I walked up by where Sherry Fitz is and I thought there was a lot of units

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closed and I was taken aback by it”.

Mulcahy and Cllr Crowe have both prevailed in the three elections that they have been each other’s running mate. “There’s seven seats there, I don’t mind if it is the first or the last.”

Explaining his reasons for leaving politics after losing his seat on the Seanad in 2016, Tony said, “I lost my seat, I always knew when I ran first that the day would come when I wouldn’t get enough votes, I had two General Elections and a Seanad campaign when that happened. I had to go back to the business because I had no income, there is no secret in it, we finished in April, we got three months pay on top of this which took me to November so then I started to pay myself through the business which was in its infancy then, “We were only doing a couple of hundred lunches a day whereas you need to be doing 10,000 a day to be making a living out of it, margins were so small so it was total focus to build it up. Between 2016 and 2019, there was no election so you’d be waiting a long time, I never drew money from the Dole, when I was 19 I finished my training at the Airport, I signed on for three days but I never took it.”

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Thursday, Nov 2, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

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Guilfoyle selected as Sinn Féin candidate in Ennis Municipal District

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

TOMMY Guilfoyle has been selected as Sinn Féin’s candidate in the Ennis Municipal District for the 2024 local elections.

Party members gave their backing to Tommy’s candidacy at a recent convention with Sinn Féin’s Ard Chomhairle ratifying the decision to put him on the ballot paper for the June local elections.

The Clare Echo had first reported the likelihood of Guilfoyle contesting the local elections back in April.

He stated at the time when asked if he would run, “I’ve no aspiration of any bid, not yet. People have said to me ‘Tommy will you come off the ditch, you’re like the hurler on the ditch’”.

Sinn Féin now have three candidates confirmed across Co Clare for the local elections, Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) and James Ryan (SF) will both run in the Shannon Municipal District with Guilfoyle now on the ballot paper in the Ennis Municipal District.

Tommy was campaign manager for Violet-Anne Wynne (IND) when she was elected as a Sinn Féin TD, the first for the county in nearly 100 years at the 2020 General Election. He had also been involved with the successful campaign when Michael McNamara (IND) became

l 2024: Tommy Guilfoyle Photo by Chris Copley

a TD for the first time in 2011 as a Labour party candidate.

Clarecastle based Guilfoyle is currently Chairman of Sinn Féin’s Cumann in Ennis. He is an active member of the Clarecastle GAA Club and has served as Vice Chair-

man, he is heavily involved with gaelic and ladies football teams in the club.

A founding member of the Francis Street Alliance, Tommy is also involved with the Clare Council of Trade Unions, the Congress Infor-

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need maintenance and improving.

Housing, social and affordable will be a top priority for me and working hard in the council chamber to have more homes made available will always be a core campaign. I will continue to work for better workers rights and the rights of people with disabilities.

“We need to ensure we have a vibrant commercial and tourism sector to fuel economic growth for the benefit of all. I vow to genuinely listen to people and represent our communities at every twist and turn. I will push for a more open and transparent council executive and for greater local democracy. I am proud to be a signatory to a document named ‘A Trade Union Vision for a New and United Ireland’. I will continue campaigning for a United Ireland and for a reunification referendum as allowed for in the Good Friday Agreement”.

He added, “The Francis Street Alliance shows what can be achieved when the community comes together for a common goal. This is the grassroots community action and solidarity that I will represent in the council chamber. Solidarity across community groups and within a community can create real change.

A councillor should be the people’s voice, their delegate in local government at all times”.

Wax Attacks! FREE hitech ear wax removal from Ireland’s hearing specialists

for the month of November.

SERVICES

mation and Opportunity Centre and the Clare International Brigades Commemorative Collective.

On his selection, Guilfoyle stated, “I would like to express my fraternal gratitude to my Cumann Comrades for selecting me to run in the next local election. I am a husband and father in a family where both parents work and I fully understand the struggles and worries facing people, every minute of every day. I believe that a strong Sinn Féin representation on the Clare County Council can create real, progressive change.

The village of Clarecastle, our capital town Ennis and its surrounds are great places to live, work and raise a family, and I firmly believe by working together we can make them even better.”

“I am a trade union activist and I’m involved in ongoing campaigns for better workers rights and livelihoods. As a member of the Council’s Social Development Strategic Policy Committee, I’ve pushed hard for improved facilities and services for our community and crucially on alleviating the housing crisis”.

Improved local health and mental health services plus greater policing are the issues he believes the Council can push the Government for improvement on.

“I believe our local services, infrastructure and recreational amenities

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IMPACTED ear wax will cause temporary hearing loss, and busy GP surgeries do not always have time to help deal with it.

Hidden Hearing, the country’s hearing healthcare specialists, are offering free checks and ear wax removal for the month of November, so Christmas celebrations can be loud and clear.

Wax irrigation and micro suction services will be available by appointment, at over 80 Hidden Hearing clinics countrywide, and can be made by calling 1800882884, or on the website, www.hiddenhearing.ie/earwax-removal-service.

Symptoms of hard or impacted earwax can include sudden or partial hearing loss, tinnitus, a feeling of fullness in the ear, or earache. It is also difficult to perform a proper hearing test when there is a build-up of earwax.

Either manual wax irrigation or micro-suction are pain-free procedures, completed in minutes, according to Hidden Hearing’s Dolores Madden,

audiologist and group Marketing Director.

Micro-suction is a safe and quick method of ear wax removal, also used to remove foreign bodies from the ear canal, the hearing specialist says.

“This simple and effective treatment uses a medical suction device and a microscope to see directly into the ear canal, and no liquids are needed at all.”

Wax acts as a selfcleaning service for ears, protecting the sensitive ear canal from things like bacteria and debris that can cause infection.

“Never put anything in your ear, and, if you are bothered by the feeling of a blockage, just talk to a hearing specialist,” the Hidden Hearing audiologist advises.

Apart from damaging the sensitive inner ear, cotton buds, finger tips or hair grips can cause impacted wax, as can regular use of bud earphones, earplugs and even hearing aids, it seems.

Always check up on any hearing loss, is the

specialists’ advice, and look out for free earwax removal during November at Hidden Hearing, as that often can cause hearing difficulty.

Singer Daniel O’Donnell backs the new Hidden Hearing campaign that aims to educate the public on the importance of taking care of their hearing, just as they would look after their teeth, eyesight, blood pressure or cholesterol.

Heart health, dementia, diabetes, and other serious illness has been linked to hearing loss.

Treatment, including the use of hearing aids, can be a preventative factor, protecting against the progression of certain disease, particularly in older adults.

Call 1800-882884, or visit the website, www. hiddenhearing.ie/earwax-removal-service for more information and appointments.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Nov 2, 2023

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News

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11

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Thursday, Nov 2, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

News

Marty pokes fun at Dooley query

RTÉ broadcaster Marty Mor- milebridge on Friday evening rissey made light of his recent along with Clare TD, Cathal Renault controversy when at- Crowe (FF), Mayor of Clare, tending the official opening of Cllr Joe Cooney (FG), Cllr DonSixmilebridge GAA club’s Are- na McGettigan (SF), Cllr John na on Friday night, writes Pára- Crowe (FG), Cllr Pat McMahon ic McMahon.

(FF), Cllr Pat O’Gorman (FF) Amid the height of a pay- and Cllr Michael Begley (IND). ments scandal within RTÉ this Dooley’s presence was noted summer, Quilty’s Marty in July by the broadcaster who told the revealed himself to be the staff crowd, “I see many friends here member with the State broad- tonight”. caster that had the loan of a Marty added, “if anyone is Renault car for concerned how five years, withI got down here, out approval I see my good from his emfriend Timmy ployer.

Dooley here, The car was Timmy if you’re returned a day asking, I walked”. prior to a secWhen adond sitting of dressing the the Oireachtas controversy via a Media Comstatement in July, mittee with seMarty outlined nior officials in that he was asked RTÉ. to MC a numThis revelaber of events for tion came to Renault in 2017, light following inter viewing questioning by GAA personaliSenator Timmy ties, which he rel Senator Timmy Dooley Dooley (FF). ceived permission Photo by John Mangan The Mountfor from RTÉ and shannon native has since said he “did not seek a fee for this he wasn’t referring to Mor- engagement”. risssey with his queries.

He added, “as I hadn’t sought Senator Dooley was among a fee, Renault offered me the use the politicians present in Six- of a car”.

Sixmilebridge open

lTHE BRIDGE: Syl O’Connor watches as Marty Morrissey and Terence Chaplin unveil the official opening plaque

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Beauty specialists celebrate graduation

A group of Clare women who graduated from the Limerick and Clare Education Training Board as beauty specialists. Pictured (L-R); Dita Linde from Ennis, Marisa McMahon from Kilrush, Veronica Rodgers of Kilrush, Kilrush’s Marian Kelly Fallon, Newmarket-on-Fergus’ Therese Smith and Kamilla Kuldasheva from Ennis

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Nov 2, 2023

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€1.2m Arena

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

SIXMILEBRIDGE GAA Club officially opened their €1.2m Indoor Arena in front of a large crowd on Friday evening.

An idea that was first mooted seven years ago by former Clare minor hurling manager, Terence Chaplin was celebrated in The Bridge with the official opening of the state-of-theart facility. The Arena is comprised of a 60x30 indoor playing facility plus a 60x20 fully lit outdoor facility and external hurling wall.

Though it is a facility that will aid Sixmilebridge in continuing to build for the future it also honours the past with a memorial plaque visible at the entrance naming several influential persons within the club that have passed on to their eternal reward.

Planning permission for the facility located beside the club’s Cappa Lodge pitch was lodged in November 2016 when Paddy Meehan was in the role of Chairman. Meehan who managed the club to win the 2002 Clare SHC is no longer involved in the club but was a central figure at the early days of the project which was certainly one of the most ambitious sporting developments in the county.

December 2021 saw Syl O’Connor elected as Chairman of the club, he had been responsible for winning the contract to construct the facility and attended his first meeting

of the club back in the parochial hall in 1974.

Sod was officially turned in June 2018 and in December of that year a steel structure was put in place.

Teams entered The Arena for the first time in January 2023 with sides from U5 to senior in hurling and camogie making use of the facility. The launch of Spraoi Saturdays sees 300 plus children train on Saturdays while the parish league was held indoors for the first time in 2023.

Speaking on Friday, Syl praised the role of volunteers within the club as he flagged “a gang of helpers” were setting up The Arena at 23:40 on Thursday night in advance of the opening.

“We were hoping during the week that we might end up with a crowd, it’s a huge crowd and is way beyond our expectations”.

The opening was attended by up to 600 people, tallies from the club indicate.

“Some of the greatest stories ever written began with the words ‘once upon a time’ and once upon a time at a club meeting under ‘Any Other Business’ around this time in 2016 one man (Terence Chaplin) put up his hand and asked what young players would do at the end of October onwards,” O’Connor a familiar voice as Clare FM’s main sporting commentator added.

He said almost half a million euro has been generated by the club in fundraising for The Arena with memorable events such

as Strictly Come Dancing, Clare’s Fittest Family and Stars In Your Eyes helping to finance the project but also bring the club together.

When the project was initially launched, Marty Morrissey was the special guest, “In 2016 he came all the way down from Dublin and went back home just for the launch,” Syl said.

He outlined that the RTÉ broadcaster wouldn’t take a cent for his contribution, instead as an act of goodwill he was put in the lotto draw for a period of months and emerged as a weekly winner on four occasions.

Co parish priest, Fr Damien Nolan in his blessing remarked, “let yellow cards and red cards be few and none” when it comes to hurling in the facility. As he concluded the prayer, a shout of ‘Up the Bridge’ echoed out across The Arena from one underage player.

Eoin Gavin, Chairman of the Sixmilebridge underage club said “it is great to be here at last”. He believed the facility served as “a great step forward”.

He recounted that over the bad weather in the past month on one particular evening conditions were so bad that he maintained the U16 hurlers were “the only team across the country” able to train due to the Arena.

Marty Morrissey concluded, “Sixmilebridge is the greatest parish in Co Clare, apart from Kilmurry Ibrickane”.

News

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Thursday, Nov 2, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

News

Notes

Jennifer takes on Queen of the Land

TALK ON IRISH FAIRIES THE North Clare Historical Society continues its current lecture series with a talk entitled Irish Fairies: A Short history of the Sídhe by Michael Houlihan.

Every corner of Ireland retains a memory of the fairies be it a cave, a hill, a tree, a lake or a fort. The talk will be held at The Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon on Monday 6th November at 8.15. All are welcome.

ST FRANCIS CREDIT UNION CLARE COMMUNITY GAMES AGM THE St Francis Credit Union Clare Community Games Annual General Meeting will take place on Tue 7th November in Treacy’s West County Hotel. All areas are requested to send their three delegates to the meeting as the input from all areas will help with the decision making for the coming season. Clare County Executive Committee are looking for new volunteers to fill the following positions: County Chairperson, County Vice Chairperson, County Secretary, Assistant County Secretary, County Development Officer.

Once these positions are filled the areas in Clare will be able to affiliate with National Community Games and participate in Community Games in the coming year.

Without these positions being filled there will be NO CLARE COMMUNITY GAMES. Training will be provided for those who volunteer for those incredible roles. Local areas will be looking for volunteers to get involved in their committees also.

Now is your time to get involved and create opportunities for the youth of County Clare to try out new activities, meet new friends and experience the wonderful organisation that is Community Games.

Please contact your local secretary or clare@communitygames.eu for more information.

Jennifer Rafferty, a 22-yearold, student nurse, from Sixmilebridge will represent Clare in the Queen of the Land Macra competition. The competition will run from Friday 10th to Sunday 12th November in The County Arms hotel, birr, Co.Offaly.

Jennifer joined Macra back in 2020 to meet new people outside of college and is an active member of Sixmilebridge/ Kilmurry Macra. She is currently the Rural Youth officer for the club. Jennifer’s hobbies include playing camogie and jiving. She also enjoys a good night out with friends and travelling.

Both Clare Macra and Sixmilebridge/Kilmurry Macra would like to wish Jennifer the very best of luck.

LNDR contract ‘taking forever’ HOW the Limerick Northern Distributor Road (LNDR) is going to serve the area of Knockalisheen needs to be clearly outlined, a Clare councillor has argued while voicing annoyance with the delays in appointing a con-

tractor, writes Páraic McMahon.

Overall costs of the project are expected to be in the region of €58m.

Phase one of the LNDR was under debate before it received the green light from the Government in February 2021. Roadbridge, the construction firm which has now entered receivership, were appointed by Limerick City and County Council for the contract following a competi-

tive tendering process for the project costing around €29m.

Issuing an update to elected members of the Shannon Municipal District, Acting Director of Services, Siobhán McNulty stated that the project was being led by Limerick City and County Council who were due to appoint a contractor “to complete emergency site works”. A retendering process “will be done in the coming months.

It is being led by Limerick

and our team are linking in, in terms of that”.

Voicing frustration, Cllr Michael Begley (IND) said it was “taking forever to get a new contract for the first phase of the LNDR”. He requested a presentation on officials from either Limerick City and County Council or Clare Clare County on “what is left” and “how it serves the area of Knockalisheen”. Ms McNulty said she could attempt to arrange it.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Nov 2, 2023

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Community clamping down on rising burglaries

by Adam Maloney news@clareecho.ie

ATTEMPTED burglaries are becoming more common in East Clare in recent months.

Killaloe based Matthew Moroney has created a Facebook page ‘East Clare Community Alert’ in order for everyone to update the pubic and population of the region of any suspicious activity.

This has been a success for the Broadford farmer and the rest of the East Clare community as the page has grown rapidly within the past weeks, but the attempted robbery attempts for cars has not slowed in any way.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Matthew explained, “people are breaking into houses, and they’re getting the keys of people’s cars.

It’s quite alarming because people have been actually in the house while its being robbed so the process of it, some cars I believe are found, more weren’t”.

Efforts of the Facebook page have had successful

outcomes. “Recently the influencer Niamh de Brún in Limerick, her Range Rover was stolen while she was in the house, she recovered that through the ‘East Clare Community Alert’ page. It was found in O’Briensbridge”.

He continued, “There has been cars in Killaloe, there has been cars in Broadford. There has been cars broken into literally all areas, you don’t have to define it down to any particular parish. Like there was a shop in Sixmilebridge broken into, there was a shop in Killaloe-Ballina broken into you know so it’s quite a variety”.

Working in the Bridgetown Co-op, Moroney stated that he started to realise the effect these burglaries had on the locals, and therefore created ‘East Clare Community Alert’. He said, “I didn’t think it was going to take off as much as it did and one of the posts there last week reached over 13,000 people”.

“I suppose when I started working here in Bridgetown

Creamery. I got to know a lot of the elderly folk and I suppose the people living alone a lot, and to have been listening to that, their queries about you know things happening, I suppose maybe in rural areas, the lack of policing hasn’t been seen as much since a lot of the local Garda stations closed down. So, you know people are worried, and especially coming up to Christmas”.

The victims of these burglaries “like the homeowners and the car owners would have informed Gardaí”, Moroney stated. “When you break into someone’s house, you’re breaking into someone’s privacy and you know their personal belongings, we all have them in cars. So, it’s quite alarming to be honest”.

“Don’t leave anything visible in their cars, try and keep their car keys on them at all times instead of leaving them you know on the table or in the hallway when they go in. Don’t keep any cash in the house”.

News

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Thursday, Nov 2, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

Ennis

'He know how to play the game' - tributes paid to Des Neylon

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

HUGE CROWDS attended the funeral of Ennis’ Des Neylon at the Cathedral of Saints Peter and Paul on Monday.

Guards of honour were provided by Ennis Golf Club and Éire Óg GAA Club, two organisations that Des had a long and proud involvement with.

He worked with SBS in Shannon for many years and also served as manager of Quick Lock in Shannon before commencing employment with the Department of Social Welfare where he was based in Ennis.

Noted as a very popular member of the community, Des died peacefully in his home at Gallows Hill on Wednesday last.

Formerly a captain of Ennis Golf Club, he was a long-standing member of the club.

With Éire Óg, he served in a multitude of roles, on the pitch, the sideline and at committee level. He won championships at minor, U21 and junior but the highlight was winning a senior championship in 1966 at corner back against White-

l Pat Fitzpatrick (RIP), Des Neylon (RIP) and Cllr Pat Daly

gate. When his playing days ended, Des volunteered as a trainer of all

teams and spent time as Chairman, Secretary and President.

In the political circles, Des was a member of Fianna Fáil and had

been a keen supporter of Cllr Pat Daly (FF) with whom he was a long-time friend.

At Monday’s mass, his daughter Carole read a poem written by his former colleague Jim Collins. It included the line, ‘He loved the gals, straight whiskey, had a grá for Fianna Fáil, T’was said he should have had one shot at running for the Dáil, But in Gleesons and the Gallows you'll still hear a loud refrain, Fill a pint for Dessie, he knew how to play the game’.

His wife Margaret died in January of last year and had been heavily involved in groups such as Ennis Tidy Towns, Ennis Community Employment Scheme, Ennis Chamber and Ennis Phoenix Twinning Board.

Des is survived by his loving children Carole, Thomas and Hilary, sons in law David Frawley and Richard Kelly, daughter in law Aisling, sisters Marie Molony and Ann Ferrigan, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, grandchildren Donnacha, Ciara, Emily, Alannah, Aoibheann, Oisin, Sam and Saoirse, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours, family and friends.

Ennis tunes up for 29th Trad Fest

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

E

NNIS TRAD FEST returns to the county town next Thursday (November 9).

Top local, national and international traditional music stars form part of the line up for the 29th Ennis Trad Fest. Despite expanding over the years, the heart of this exuberant festival remains focused on community involvement and a love of traditional music.

Musicians including Andy Irvine, Paddy Glackin, Robbie Hannon, Realta, Tony Linnane, Mary Bergin, Clare Youth Trad Orchestra with special guest Sharon Shannon, John McSherry, Brendan Quinn and Francis McIlduff will be performing at Ennis Trad Fest.

Irvine is a founding member of Planxty, Glackin a founding member of the Bothy Band

and the 2022 TG4 Gradam Ceoil winner while Hannan a world-famous uilleann piper is curator Musicology at the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum.

Concerts, sessions and CD launches are par for the course at the Trad Fest which this year has over 100 free

events. There are also traditional music masterclasses, trad-discos, ceili’s, trad-quizzes and a range of children and teen events.

Ennis Trad Fest runs from Thursday November 9th to Monday November 13th. For more details see www.ennistradfest.com.

Notes ENNIS SUB AQUA CLUB TRY a Dive Night takes place at Ennis Swimming Pool Complex on Saturday, November 11 from 6-8pm.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to dive using Scuba gear, well this is your chance to try for free.

Ennis Sub Aqua are holding a free Try a Dive night at above location and time. What you need to bring is your normal pool gear and the rest will be provided. Qualified instructors will take you up and down the pool using supplied dive gear. You must be 18 years or older to partake.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Nov 2, 2023

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Shannon

17

SHANNON NEWS in association with

Draft design of One Shannon Hub to be published

A

DRAFT design of the One Shannon Hub is due to be published in November with public consultation on track to commence this month writes Páraic McMahon.

In July, Clare County Council signed contracts with BDP (Integrated Design Team) and Tom McNamara & Partners (Integrated QS & Project Manager) for the design of a multi-functional building known as the ‘One Shannon Hub’.

This will combine a town hall, an adaptable performance and community space, library, and flexible co-working spaces

in the heart of Shannon.

Public realm improvements to the town square adjacent to the site which had been formerly earmarked for The Venue are to form part of the development. Plans to develop the Shannon Venue were scrapped in 2018 when a voluntary group established six years earlier failed to secure necessary Government funding and instead funds were granted for a masterplan.

A 999 year lease for the site owned by Shannon Commercial Properties was agreed on

by Clare County Council in August 2022.

Addressing a meeting of the Shannon Municipal District,

Acting Director of Services, Siobhán McNulty explained that a steering group was established with monthly meetings taking place with the design team.

She confirmed that a draft design will be completed in November at which public consultation will commence.

She said a further case will be submitted in the first quarter of 2024.

Stressing the need for “serious effort” to make the project a reality, Cllr PJ Ryan (IND) remarked, “so many things have failed in Shannon. It would be extremely unjust to Shannon people to let this project fall back”.

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Clare Cricket Club look forward to free coaching CLARE cricket club concluded their recent season and are looking forward with interest to opening up free coaching sessions in the spring, writes Páraic McMahon.

What was formerly the home of Newtown FC in Shannon has been brought back to life as the grounds of the Clare Cricket Club in Ballycasey.

To see out their season, they recently a five-overs a side tournament with nine teams taking part in a fast and frenetic short version of the game with cricketers from all over the Mid-West and further afield.

After a busy round-robin phase, the two teams left standing for the final were Limer-

ick Blasters and Royal Challengers Navan and it was the team from the Royal County that ran out deserved winners, Jai Mundara picked up the player of the tournament award.

Re-established two years ago, Clare Cricket Club now fields teams in Division 1 and Division 2 of the Munster Cricket Union league.

Matches are played from May until September most Saturdays and Sundays at the newly refurbished Ballycasey Oval.

Free coaching sessions will be arranged by the club which will be open to all when they are held next spring.

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To book, or for more information, phone: 061 364 047 or email: info@shannonspringshotel.com 061 364 047 | WWW.SHANNONSPRINGSHOTEL.COM BALLYCASEY, SHANNON, CO. CLARE lSUCCESFUL SEASON: Clare Cricket Club with Cathaoirleach Donna McGettigan (SF)

Photo by Joe Buckley

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Thursday, Nov 2, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

Columnists

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Thought for the week: We remember them Spreading the word of positivity RONAN SCULLY

A

SHELF altar that I set up many years ago in my kitchen has become a special kind of shrine

for me.

On it rest photos of people special to me: my grandparents, my wife’s parents, my beautiful niece Aoife, my relatives, children of some of my close friends, my best friend and indeed many friends and parents of many of my friends. All have passed away.

Many of them died far too soon. Their deaths leave an emptiness that fits this season of November of longer nights and colder days. And yet their images bear a fullness as well. The memories they trigger also contain a yearning expressed in the hope that their absence is not the final word. This kitchen altar shrine of mine is an act of hope, faith and prayer that my loved ones are not gone forever.

PAUSE, REFLECT AND REMEMBER This is the month we begin winter time and we remember all our loved ones who have gone before us.

Death is that challenging confrontation that reminds us “We are only here for a short time”. I want to dedicate this thought for the week as it’s a time we remember, to those who have gone before us and especially to everyone who has passed away in the last year. Each November affords us a time to pause,

reflect and remember all those who have died and gone before us into the loving arms of God. As we continue to move through our country and global problems of which there are many, consider this time as an opportunity to slow down, face into our own losses and grief and to seek the consolation of God’s love.

In November, we remember those we call “the faithful departed” who have “gone before us marked with the sign of faith.”

In many parishes and places, we bring pictures of deceased loved ones to church and pray in a special way for those who have died. These acts of remembrance are signs of faith and love. They are also acts of hope. Our prayers declare our hope that, in the words of the funeral liturgy, “Lord, for your faithful people life is changed, not ended.” As a people we nurture the hope and faith that life will continue again, but in a way we can’t imagine or conceive.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK As your thought for the week, treat everyone around you in a gentler way as much as you can and be thankful for loved ones gone before us that are no longer with us in the same presence as they were, especially during this month of November which is dedicated as a time of remembering! As one of my favourite writers John O’ Donohue wrote “live the life you would love to look back on from your deathbed”.

A prayer called ‘If Tomorrow Starts Without Me’ attributed to David Romano

l Remembering loved ones

I love to pray that gives me solace when I think of my loved one’s gone before me goes as follows, “When tomorrow starts without me, and I’m not there to see; If the sun should rise and find your eyes, all filled with tears for me; I wish so much you wouldn’t cry, the way you did today, while thinking of the many things, we didn’t get to say.

I know how much you love me, as much as I love you,

and each time that you think of me, I know you’ll miss me too; But when tomorrow starts without me, please try to understand, that an Angel came and called my name, and took me by the hand, and said my place was ready, in heaven far above, and that I’d have to leave behind, all those I dearly love.

But as I turned to walk away, a tear fell from my eye, for all my life, I’d always

thought, I didn’t want to die.

I had so much to live for, so much left yet to do, it seemed almost impossible, that I was leaving you. I thought of all the yesterdays, the good ones and the bad, I thought of all the love we shared, and all the fun we had. If I could relive yesterday, just even for a while, I’d say goodbye and kiss you and maybe see you smile.

But then I fully realized, that this could never be, for emp-

tiness and memories, would take the place of me.

And when I thought of worldly things, I might miss come tomorrow, I thought of you, and when I did, my heart was filled with sorrow.

But when I walked through heaven’s gates, I felt so much at home.

When God looked down and smiled at me, from His great golden throne, He said, “This is eternity, and all I’ve promised you”. Today your life on earth is past, but here life starts anew. I promise no tomorrow, but today will always last, and since each day’s the same day, there’s no longing for the past.

But you have been so faithful, so trusting and so true. Though there were times you did some things, you knew you shouldn’t do.

But you have been forgiven and now at last you’re free.

So won’t you come and take my hand and share my life with me? So when tomorrow starts without me, don’t think we’re far apart, for every time you think of me, I’m right here, in your heart. Amen” So please treat everyone around you in a gentler way as much as you can and be thankful for loved ones that are no longer with us in the same presence as they were, especially during this time of remembering.

As we enter this sacred month, may perpetual light shine upon all who have died. May the souls of all of the departed, through the mercy of God, rest, and live eternally, in peace. “Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen.”

Eagrán 50 de Macalla an Chláir The 50th edition of Macalla an Chláir Macalla an Chláir

Imeachtaí/Events:

LE MACDARA Ó CONAOLA

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IA dhaoibh agus fáilte go heagrán uimhir a caoga de ‘’Macalla an Chláir’’. Beidh sibh sásta a chloisteáil go bhfuil cúntas nua twitter, Facebook, agus Instagram againn, mar sin, bígí inár leanacht ag @MacallaAnChlair.

Is féidir r-phost a sheoladh chugainn má bhíonn scéal ar bith agaibh nó imeacht Gaeilge éigint ag tarlú in bhur gceantar, ag macallaanchlair@gmail.com.

OIREACHTAS NA GAEILGE Mura mbeidh sibh ag duil go Cill Airne ag an Oireachtas an tseachtain seo, téigh chuig www. antoireachtas.ie, éistigí le RTÉ Raidió na Gaeltachta, agus breathnaigí ar TG4, le na hócáidí is fearr a fheiceáil nó a chloisteáil, nó an dá rud!

Meastú cé a bhfuaifidh ‘’Corn Uí Riada’’ i mbliana?!

lOireachtas na Gaeilge 2023: Go néirí an t-ádh le Domhnall Ó Braonáin i gCorn Uí Riada. Seo hé le MacDara Ó Conaola

• ENNIS/INIS – RANGANNA GAEILGE/ON-GOING IRISH CLASSES, Ennis Education Centre, Dé Céadaoin, 6pm agus 7pm, spraoilegaeilge@gmail.com, 085-1295594 • CILL INÍNE BAOITH - Ciorcal Comhrá san XPO, chuile Dé Céadaoin ag 7.30pm • INIS / ENNIS - Scéalaíocht do pháistí / Story time i nGaeilge le MacDara Ó Conaola, 7ú Samhain/7th November, Leabharlann De Valera, Inis, 3 – 3.30pm, Saor in aisce / Free of charge • SRÁID NA CATHRACH / MILTOWN MALBAY – Scéalaíocht agus Rannta le Ceri / Storytime and Rhyme i nGaeilge with Ceri, Leabharlann Phoiblí, Dé Céadaoin, 8ú Samhain / 8th of November, 10.30-11.00am IN AISCE / FREE OF CHARGE • INIS – CAINT AGUS COMHRÁ, chuile Dé Luain ag 11am sa gCopper Jug, Dé Céadaoin ag 11am in O’Brien’s, oíche Déardaoin sa Temple Gate (8pm), agus Dé Sathairn i nGlór, 11am-12pm Déan teagmháil leo ag: caintaguscomhra@outlook.com • RAIDIÓ CLARE FM - ‘’Cúl-chaint’’ le Domhnall Ó Loingsigh chuile mhaidin Dé Sathairn, 9am. Seol nuacht chuig: Donal@clare.fm • ENNIS / INIS – Scéalaíocht agus Rannta le Ceri / Storytime and Rhyme i nGaeilge with Ceri, Leabharlann De Valera, Inis, Déardaoin an 2ú Samhain /2 nd of November, 11.00 – 11.30am IN AISCE / FREE OF CHARGE

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Nov 2, 2023

Columnists

19

Top Tips for November A taste of Clare cuisine Your Local Garden Centre, filling and refilling your pots all year round!

086 340 5236 Orchard Lane, Hermitage, Ennis

Pumpkin Soup

This weeks recipe is brought to you by

brought to you by

Planting pots

AFTER Halloween everyone is normally sick of pumpkins but if you can get your hands on cooking variety of pumpkin or squash this recipe is definitely worth making.

It’s great to enjoy for lunch on a cold weekend with some brown bread.

PLANT Spring flowering bulbs for a Spring display next year. So many enjoy Spring and the start of a new season. Bulbs are low maintenance and easy to grow they can be planted in borders or in containers.

They should be planted at a depth roughly 2-3 times the bulb size. Place the bulb with the shoot facing upwards and space them at least twice the bulb own width apart.

The layering effect can give a beautiful display and using a selection of bulbs for example the latest flowering to the bottom of the pot with a layer of soil between so possible tulips, daffodil and at the top snowdrops or crocus and while you wait some winter violas at the top.

Enjoy making your creation.

• • • • •

lViolas

Ingredients

2 tbsp olive oil 2 onions, finely chopped 1kg pumpkin or squash (try kabocha or butternut squash), peeled, deseeded and chopped into chunks 700ml vegetable stock or chicken stock 150ml double cream

For the croutons 2 tbsp olive oil 4 slices wholemeal seeded bread, crusts removed • handful pumpkin seeds • •

085 8613103 Doolin, Co. Clare V95 KH30

until the squash is very soft.

-Pour 150ml double cream into the pan, bring back to the boil, then purée with a hand blender. For an extra-velvety consistency you can pour the soup through a fine sieve. The soup can now be frozen for up to 2 months.

-To make the croutons: cut 4 slices wholemeal seeded bread into small squares.

-Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a frying pan, then fry the bread until it starts to become crisp.

-Add a handful of pumpkin seeds to the pan, then cook for a few mins more until they are toasted. These can be made a day ahead and stored in an airtight container.

-Reheat the soup if needed, taste for seasoning, then serve scattered with croutons and seeds and drizzled with more olive oil, if you want.

Method

-Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large saucepan, then gently cook 2 finely chopped onions for 5 mins, until soft but not coloured.

-Add 1kg pumpkin or squash, cut into chunks, to the pan, then carry on cooking for 8-10 mins, stirring occasionally until it starts to soften and turn golden.

-Pour 700ml vegetable or chicken stock into the pan and season with salt and pepper.

Bring to the boil, then simmer for 10 mins

Driving safely during winter storms Brought to you in association with Gort Road Tyres, keeping you on the road for less AS STORM Ciarán unleashes heavy downpours on the west of Ireland, it’s a timely reminder of the challenges posed by driving in very wet weather.

These adverse conditions can make even routine journeys treacherous. In this article, The Clare Echo and Gort Road Tyres will provide you with seven essential tips to ensure your safety while navigating rain-soaked roads and reduced visibility on the road.

Slow Down: Reduce your speed in wet weather.

Hydroplaning is a real threat, and slowing down allows your tires to maintain better traction with the road surface.

Increase Following Distance: Maintain a greater following distance behind the vehicle in front of you. Wet

roads increase braking distances, so having extra space provides more time to react.

Use Your Headlights: Turn on your headlights to enhance visibility. Even in daylight, rainy conditions can significantly reduce the ability of others to see your vehicle.

Avoid Cruise Control: Disengage your cruise control in wet weather. It’s important to have full control over your vehicle’s speed at all times.

Check Tyres: Ensure your tires have sufficient tread and are properly inflated. Worn or underinflated tyres can increase the risk of hydroplaning.

Beware of Puddles: Steer clear of standing water and large puddles, as they can hide hazards or cause hydroplaning.

Maintain Windshield Wipers: Keep your windshield wipers in good working order. Clear vision is crucial, and fresh wiper blades help remove rain more effectively.

Remember, when the rain is heavy, it’s advisable to pull over and wait for the storm to pass if conditions become too dangerous. Your safety should always be a top priority. By following these tips and using common sense, you can reduce the risks associated with driving in very wet weather and ensure a safer journey for yourself and others on the road.

l Wet weather

20

Thursday, Nov 2, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

Business & Recruitment

Work commences on landmark Inis Cealtra Visitor Experience project EAST Clare’s biggest tourism project to be undertaken has moved a step closer to becoming a reality following the signing of a contract for the development of the Inis Cealtra (Holy Island) visitor centre in the heart of Mountshannon vil-

lage, writes Páraic McMahon.

Overlooking Mountshannon Harbour and Lough Derg, the Old Rectory is an historic period house dating from 1905 and is set to repurposed and extended into a visitor and interpretative centre for Inis Cealtra

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST FOR DEVELOPERS AND BUILDING CONTRACTORS FOR THE PROVISION OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING – EXTENSION OF DEADLINE

Clare County Council is extending the deadline for the receipt of expressions of interest for the provision of turnkey housing developments by Housing Developers and Building Contractors for delivery of affordable housing in the following locations: •

Ennis

•

Shannon

Further details of this scheme and a guide to making a submission are available on the Clare County Council’s website under www.clarecoco.ie or by emailing affordablehousing@clarecoco.ie The revised latest date and time for receipt of submissions is 4.00pm on Tuesday 30th November 2023.

Please note that Clare County Council is not obliged to purchase any turnkey housing development submitted as part of this process.

Dated:

2nd November.

Signed: Adrian Headd, A/Senior Engineer, Housing Department.

lMOUNTSHANNON: Michael Fitzgibbon, Councillor Joe Cooney Cathaoirleach Clare

County Council, Joan Tarmey, Tourism Officer, Clare County Council and Valerie Mulvin, Mc Cullough Mulvin Architects Photo Neil Hynes

DIGITAL MARKETING EXECUTIVE JOB OPENING IN COUNTY CLARE Clare County Council is currently inviting applications from suitably qualified persons for the below competition. Clare County Council will, following the interview process, form a panel for the area set out below from which future relevant vacancies may be filled subject to sanction approval from the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage.

Retained Fire-Fighter Panel (Part-time) Clare County Fire & Rescue Service is currently recruiting staff for inclusion on a panel for the following stations: • Scariff Candidates must live and work within 2.4 km of the Fire Station and be available to attend drills and fire alerts.

Garda vetting will apply prior to any appointment(s) that are made.

Completed applications must be emailed to: recruitment@clarecoco.ie not later then 12 noon on Tuesday 21st November, 2023 Application forms and further particulars may be obtained by requesting same from the Human Resources Department, Clare County Council at 065-6846250, via e-mail: recruitment@clarecoco.ie or can be downloaded from the following website: www.clarecoco.ie Clare County Council is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sectors of the Community.

Scriobh chugainn as gaeilge más fearr leat.

Clare Tourism Development DAC is a subsidiary company of Clare County Council that will oversee the management, development, and promotion of a portfolio of signature visitor attraction sites throughout County Clare.

Clare Tourism is now seeking to hire an experienced professional with skills in Marketing and Digital Marketing.

Digital Marketing Executive Full Time Permanent The position of Digital Marketing Executive is an exciting opportunity to work with the Sales and Marketing Team for Clare Tourism West and Northwest.

The position includes formulating and developing the digital marketing strategy and vision with Clare Tourism for the Cliffs of Moher Experience and other Clare Tourism sites.

HOW TO APPLY /

FURTHER INFORMATION:

If you are interested in applying, or want to know more about the position, contact careers@cliffsofmoher.ie or email your CV with cover letter to careers@cliffsofmoher.ie.

Closing date for applications Friday, 24th of November 2023 at 5pm.

(Holy Island).

Clare County Council on Monday signed a contract with M. Fitzgibbon Contractors Ltd for the redevelopment of the visitor centre building, which, once completed next year (2024), will comprise of a revitalised exhibition area that interpret local stories and the island of Inis Cealtra, a reception area, an upstairs café and rectory garden.

The successful funding awarded for this project which includes the repurposing of the Old Rectory as well as waste-water optimisation works and public realm works at Mountshannon is €4,290,765 from the Department of Rural and Community Development as part of RRDF 1 Category funding, with an additional 20% match funding committed from Clare County Council.

With important links to the last High King of Ireland Brian Boru, Inis Cealtra is one of the most important historical and ecclesiastical sites in Ireland with additional links to other religious sites and heritage attractions, such as Tuamgraney and Craggaunowen. Still used as a burial ground, the ruins and buildings still standing on the island date back to the 7th century when the monastic site was established by St. Caimin. Buildings on the island include a 24-metre-high Round Tower, an Oratory, and several churches.

Having taken 41 acres on the island into public ownership in 2015, Clare County Council acquired the Old Rectory building in 2021. The Local Authority has confirmed that plans to enhance access to and interpretation on the island, including upgrades to island and mainland access, the introduction of wayfinding infrastructure and the provision of public car parking facilities as well as future proofing an expanded visitor centre. All of these plans will be submitted to An Bord Pleanála during the first half of 2024.

Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr Joe Cooney (FG) commented, “This landmark visitor attraction will complement the Local Authority’s ongoing work to establish and promote all of Co Clare as an all-year round destination. The project has received enormous support from the local community due to the social and economic potential of the project for the village and wider East Clare area.

The Tourism Department of Clare County Council and the design team have delivered a project plan that everyone in Mountshannon can be rightly proud of, and I look forward to the opening of this fantastic new visitor facility next year”.

Pat Dowling, Chief Executive of Clare County Council explained, “Having acquired the Island in 2015 and working closely with the Office of Public Works, it has been a priority of Clare County Council to deliver and fast track a Visitor Centre, which can interpret the island and environs. Government support from the Department of Rural and Community Development has enabled Clare County Council to proceed with this milestone tourism project for East Clare that will deliver significant benefits to Mountshannon and the wider economy and will add significantly to the county’s suite of tourism attractions”.

Dowling continued, “Clare County Council is proud of its track record of delivering infrastructure and initiatives that spread the economic benefit of the tourism economy to all parts of County Clare. Our ambition is to deliver an iconic visitor experience that raises the profile of the Lough Derg Region, which can sometimes be overlooked by visitors to Clare due to the absence of a headline visitor attraction and introducing one of Ireland’s most important and historically significant ecclesiastical sites to a national and international audience”.

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Nov 2, 2023

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Business & Recruitment

21

60 seconds with... John Gavin John Gavin is co-owner of the four-star Shannon Springs Hotel. Ahead of the Clare Business Excellence Awards, we speak to him about life and business

1. Where are you from?

A Village called Rochfortbridge in Westmeath, Mullingar would be my hometown.

2. Tell me about your business?

Shannon Springs Hotel is a 71-bedroom property with a very busy ground floor for food a beverages. We have up on 85 staff em-

ployed at the moment and business is very good.

3. Is there anything that might surprise readers about Shannon Springs Hotel?

When we purchased the property it was a 2-star hotel, it’s now a 4-star and multi-award winner. Our design is very quirky, contemporary and eclectic and

not traditional airport hotel-style property so we’re very proud of our hotel.

4. What was your first job and what age were you?

In The Greville Arms Hotel in Mullingar at 16 years of age.

5. What are your strongest memories of that?

That’s where I got my flair for the hospitality industry, that’s probably why I ended up going to Shannon College to do Hotel Management.

6. Most unusual job you ever had?

On the building sites doing dry-lining, I was a labourer for a summer.

7. If you could have chosen a different career path, what would it be?

I actually did start out in Trinity College in Dublin, I wanted to be a lecturer before I left that to go to Shannon.

Other than that, a lawyer is something I would have an interest in.

8. Is there anybody in business that has inspired you?

I had a mentor early on, Frankie Whelahan who owned Choice Hotels.

9. What has been the most challenging thing you’ve encountered in business?

Covid and the whole industry closing… that and the recession.

10. If you could start again, is there anything you would do differently?

I don’t think so. We’ve been very lucky in the hotel, we’ve put in an awful lot of

hard work into getting the product to where it is right now, we have a great team around us and we’re in a strong position.

11. Can you give advice to anybody considering going into business?

Well, the hospitality industry, yes. It’s hard work but the hard work pays off and it’s a very good industry to be part of.

12. What is your favourite book?

The Hobbit.

13.What is your favourite film?

Shawshank Redemption.

14. What was the first CD / tape / record your purchased?

The Fine Young Cannibals.

15. Who is your sporting hero?

John Barnes

l John Gavin 16. What was your favourite holiday?

This year, I went with my family to France.

18. Three things you’d bring to a desert island?

My phone, my wife and water.

Shannon Airport Group selects Milford Care Centre & Alzheimer Society as chosen charities

lFUNDRAISING: Ciara Smith, Chair of the committee Vanessa McTigue, Arek Gdulinski, Amanda Gavin, Adam Mulkerrin, Aoife McLoughlin and Vice Chair Emily Brown Photo by Stephen O’Malley

MILFORD Care Centre and the Alzheimer Society of Ireland have been chosen as the two charities that the Shannon Airport Group will fundraise for over the next 12 months, writes Páraic McMahon.

Since 2014, employees from across the Group have voted for two charities to support each year, raising a total of over €420,000 since the programme commenced nine years ago.

Led by the Shannon Airport Group Charity Committee, staff across the Group will come together to run a series of events, both small and large scale, to raise the vital donations for their chosen charities.

Vanessa McTigue, Chairperson of the Shannon Airport Group Charity Committee explained, “Each year staff from across the organisation submit

charities to be chosen for our annual fundraising initiatives. This year, Milford Care Centre and The Alzheimer Society Ireland received the most votes from staff. Like with all our charities, we are honoured to dedicate our fundraising efforts to these two vital Irish charities over the next year. “Across the next 12 months we will execute lots of exciting plans for everyone to get involved and show their support, from our partners across the Shannon Campus, the community here in Shannon, passengers and general public”.

Anne Marie Hayes, Fundraising Manager with Milford Care Centre said they were delighted to be chosen. “This partnership means a great deal to Milford Care Centre, as it not only highlights the recognition of our vital work, but also brings with it the

invaluable support of the Shannon Airport Group’s dedicated employees. Working with the Shannon Airport Group will help raise awareness about our work and the importance of Hospice care within the local community and beyond. We are deeply grateful for this opportunity and look forward to working together as we are excited about the positive impact we can achieve”.

Mairéad Dillon, Head of Fundraising at The Alzheimer Society of Ireland paid tribute to the staff who selected them.

“Their support will allow The ASI to continue its vital work in providing care and support for people living with dementia and their families. I'd also like to congratulate the Milford Care Centre and look forward to working with them along with Shannon Airport”.

22

Thursday, Nov 2, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

News

Festive music, song and feasting at Bunratty Castle

THE enchanting setting of Bunratty Castle and Folk Park will be transformed into a winter wonderland this December as one of Clare’s most popular visitor attractions celebrates Christmas with a magical evening of festive music, song and feasting.

The castle banquet hall will host the ‘Christmas At The Castle’ dinner and show during which guests can enjoy a four-course festive feast as the world-famous Bunratty Entertainers provides renditions of much-loved Christmas carols, contemporary Christmas classics, and seasonally themed theatrical performances and poetic pieces.

This year’s Bunratty Christmas special coincides with the 60th anniversary of the Bunratty Castle Medieval Banquet, which is one of Ireland’s oldest running evening entertainment shows.

“The evening commences at 7.15pm when guests enter the candle-lit castle courtyard and cross the drawbridge to enjoy a claret of mulled wine in the dramatic surrounds of The Great Hall,” commented Jacqueline Magee, Evening Entertainments Manager at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park.

She continued, “Following a drinks reception, guests are invited to take a seat in the medieval surrounds of the castle’s elegant banquet hall and indulge in a four-course festive feast, complete with house wines as the Bunratty Castle Entertainers perform throughout the evening.”

Traditional roast turkey with honey baked ham is the star dish on the ‘Christmas At The Castle’ dinner menu, which

also includes winter wild mushroom and fennel soup for starters, chocolate fudge cake and mince pies to finish off with vegan/vegetarian options also available.

“Early arrivals to our Christmas event will have the opportunity to take in the twinkling fairy lights and magical light installations of our famous Christmas Lights experience,” Ms. Magee explained.

She continued, “Guests can take an enchanted walk through the winter woodlands and twinkling lights of Bunratty Folk Park, stumble upon festive illuminated displays including the Tunnel of Lights, the Abominable Snowman of Bunratty, the Giant Christmas Jumper of the Earl of Thomond, and the twinkling lights of the Bunratty House and Ardcroney Church, as well as take a stroll up the snow-covered village street and enjoy a pre-dinner tipple in the charming and cosy surrounds of Macs Pub.”

‘Christmas At The Castle’ is a strictly over 18s event. See www.bunrattycastle. ie for booking details.

New publication explores farming TRADITIONAL farming practices, the importance of the family farm, social isolation, and the advent of online marts are amongst the themes that have emerged in the ‘Clare Farmers Weaving Stories Together’ initiative.

As part of the Creativity for Wellbeing project a ‘Clare Farmers Weaving Stories Together Booklet’ was created and captures the visual stories of 5 mart areas in Clare, namely Sixmilebridge, Ennis, Kilfenora, Kilrush and Scariff.

The booklet will be launched at glór in Ennis as part of a free Health and Wellbeing Expo for the local farming community on Monday, November 13th from midday to 3.00pm.

The event is organised and supported by Clare County Council’s Healthy Clare, Age Friendly Clare and Creative Clare programmes in partnership with Cuimhneamh an Chláir / Clare Memories, the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) Clare and the HSE’s Mid-West ‘Connecting for Life’.

Guest speakers on the day include Finola Colgan from Mental Health Ireland’s Farming Resilience Project, while more than 20 community, charity and State organisations will host health and wellbeing in-

lPaula Carroll of Cuimhneamh an Chláir formation stands at the venue.

Paula Carroll, project coordinator, Cuimhneamh an Chláir, commented, “It was a joy to work with Dena and the Healthy Clare team on this initiative. We had 5 nights of great conversations with farming communities around the county. The work of Cuimhneamh an Chláir is to document the oral histories of Co. Clare, and we always note a sense of empowerment and enjoyment when people begin to tell their own stories. This collaboration with Healthy Clare reminded us yet again that telling your story, and feeling heard, is

an important foundation of mental, social and community health.”

The ‘Clare Farmers Weaving Stories Together’ booklet will be officially launched by Jim Finn, presenter of Clare FM and Tipp FM’s Farm Focus Show, on Monday, 13th November 2023 at glór, Ennis, County Clare. Free tickets for the booklet launch and Health and Wellbeing Expo can be booked at https://yoursay. clarecoco.ie/farmers-weaving-stories-together. For further information contact Dawn on 065 6846276 or agefriendlyclare@clarecoco.ie.

the Castle December 1st - 23rd | Dinner & Show €65 PER PERSON INCLUDES ...

Access to Bunratty Festive Lights Trail Mulled Wine Reception | 4 Course Festive Feast | House Wines Entertainment by the World Famous Bunratty Entertainers

Book Now

bunrattycastle.ie/christmas

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Nov 2, 2023

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News

23

24

Thursday, Nov 2, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

GREEN CLARE

GREEN CLARE ‘Removal of pedestrianisation hurting air quality’ claim Better Ennis group ENNIS is once again breaching air pollution limits set by the World Health Organisation (WHO), writes Páraic McMahon.

On Wednesday morning, PM2.5 concentration in Ennis was 1.2 times the WHO annual air quality guideline value. Air limits for PM10 were breached on Monday in Ennis in the county town. An approximate 1,300 premature deaths occur in Ireland each year that are linked to air pollution, the Environmental Protection Agency has said.

Síle Ginnane of Better Ennis, a community advocacy group said they were “deeply concerned” that Ennis is “facing into another winter” of breaching air pollution limits.

“There is an impact of air pollution to health, there are 1400 premature deaths a year linked to air pollution but it doesn’t encapsulate the impact on health, it increases the risk of asth-

mas, stroke, dementia and low birth rate”.

While Ennis has not exceeded European levels, Síle flagged that WHO limits are “more stringent”. She explained, “clean air is essential for good health, we wouldn’t drink dirty water and yet people in Ennis are getting used to poor air quality, we’re nearly expecting it every winter”.

Research at an academic level shows “increased hospitalisations based on air pollution,” Síle told The Clare Echo. “We know air pollution makes people sick, the stroke and dementia study was done in Trinity, this is not a far off land”. Ginnane continued, “it is like a blindspot, for the most part it is invisible, it is having an impact on people’s health like children, older people, people with disabilities and people who are already sick”.

She added, “We’d love to be corrected but

there seems to be so little enforcement and enforcement lies with the local authority”.

Within the local authority, Cllr Johnny Flynn (FG) has previously sought a countywide air quality plan but this wasn’t deemed necessary by senior officials in Clare County Council including engineer, Cyril Feeney.

Introduced in Ennis in 2011, a smoky coal ban “is not being enforced,” Síle felt. “Some people have no alternative heat source so they might be from lower socio-economic

background so it is really important that enforcement goes hand in hand with outreach for retrofitting and ensuring social housing is retrofitted. It is important to raise awareness, for people using wood burning stoves, it is not just causing air pollution for neighbours and towns but is also dangerous for people indoors. We need to be responsible about it because it is impacting on everyone’s health, it is people indoor and outside, pollution travels, it is not withing your own boundary”.

Draft Climate Action Plan Have Your Say

Clare County Council has now published its Draft Climate Action Plan. Interested parties are invited to make submissions or observations with regard to the Draft Climate Action Plan. Submissions/observations may be made during the period from 12th October 2023 to 23rd November 2023 inclusive. Scan the QR Code below to view the plan and submit feedback directly.

l A pedestrianised O’Connell St in Ennis

Free online courses for home energy saving

FREE online courses on Home Energy Saving are to commence this month, writes Páraic McMahon.

Clare Local Development Company (CLDC) are supporting the Home Energy Saving Course that will run over the winter months. This LEADER funded initiative will help householders to understand their home energy use and offer tips to reduce consumption and be more energy efficient.

Coming at a time when households are struggling

with rising bills, the course includes a mix of in-person and online sessions.

Launched in Lisdoonvarna on Saturday, the initiative will have similar events in Scariff GAA club on Tuesday November 7th from 19:15 to 21:15 and at Kilrush Golf Club from 19:30 to 21:30 on Wednesday November 8th.

According to Lorraine Power, Community Energy Mentor with CLDC, this course will cover a range of topics to help people manage and save energy at home. “These

include no and low cost measures, understanding our energy bills, insulation, heat pumps, BERs, Solar PV and of course explaining the various grants that are available and how to avail of them”, she said.

Online training sessions which are open to everybody begin on Wednesday 15th November and run from 7.30 to 9.30pm. The course is facilitated by AstonECO on behalf of CLDC. Email carsten. krieger@astoneco.com for further details.

Online

Via the Councils Public Consultation Portal at https://yoursay.clareco co.ie/climate-actionplan

Writing

To Climate Action Department, Clare County Council, Buttermarket Building, Drumbiggle, Ennis, Co. Clare, V95RR72

Email

To climate@clarecoco.ie.

Subject headline should read “Submission to Draft Clare Local Authority Climate Action Plan 20242029”

Public Information Drop-in Events

Council staff will be available during the hours 5.00pm to 7:00pm for the following locations and dates to provide guidance on the Draft Climate Action Plan and on the consultation process.

VENUE

DATE

West Clare Municipal District Office Kilrush, Town Hall, Kilrush

November 6th

Shannon Municipal District Office, Town Hall, Shannon

November 6th

West Clare Municipal District Office Ennistymon, Ennis Road, Ennistymon

November 7th

Killaloe Municipal District Office, Mountshannon Road, Scariff

November 7th

Civic Room, Buttermarket Building, Drumbiggle Road, Ennis

November 8th

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Nov 2, 2023

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GREEN CLARE

25

Burren research options to be enhanced

l Minister for Nature, Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan T.D., and President of University of Galway, Professor Ciarán Ó hÓgartaigh

A PARTNERSHIP agreement has been signed between the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) and the University of Galway to enhance opportunities for research and learning in the Burren, writes Páraic McMahon.

On Friday, Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan (GP) and President of the University of Galway, Professor Ciarán Ó hÓgartaigh, signed the partnership agreement.

This agreement will support programmes for academic research and study, participation in events which promote nature conservation, research and study in the Burren, and learning activities for students in local schools and University of

Galway. The partnership underpins shared management and access to two facilities in the Burren region, the Carron Field Research Facility and the Finavarra Research Station, for education, research and outreach.

Junior Minister Noonan stated, “This partnership will promote greater appreciation of the immense, intrinsic value of our rich natural heritage, reflected in the internationally renowned landscape here in the Burren. For over 20 years now the Burren National Park has been a place for nature conservation and enjoyment of visitors locally and from around the world. It will now also be a place for learning. It will allow the University of Galway and the NPWS to cultivate a love of learn-

ing about nature in these magnificent surroundings which are home to so many rare and precious species and habitats.”

Professor Ciarán Ó hÓgartaigh commented, “University of Galway has a long tradition of connections with the Burren from JR Tolkien, it is said, taking inspiration from the mystical landscape while an external examiner at the University; and Professor Máirín de Valera’s field work; and more recently our own students using the region as a living lab for learning.

“We are delighted to see new opportunities for teaching and learning, research and outreach for the University, in partnership with the National Parks and Wildlife Service in an area of such importance for biodiversity”.

26

Thursday, Nov 2, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

Sport

Three in a row 'very hard' to do

SPORT can be cruel and sport can be kind and both emotions were very much in evidence at Cusack Park on Saturday afternoon, writes Seamus Hayes.

For the players, mentors and supporters of Truagh/Clonlara camogie there were great scenes of celebration but for their opponents from Scariff/Ogonnelloe, they experienced huge disappointment when losing by the minimum margin.

With a historic third Clare senior title in a row beckoning, they had it snapped from their grasp when Áine O’Loughlin struck for a last minute goal.

“It’s heartbreak but that’s sport”, commented Scariff/Ogonnelloe manager Alphie Rodgers. “We spoke about momentum during the week with Clonlara winning the senior hurling championship last Sunday and what it would bring to the group. You see it there now, the joy it brings to them and its heartbreak for us. We were ahead in the 33rd minute of the second half, conceded a free and they scored the goal and there wasn’t enough time for a response”.

Rodgers extended congratulations to the first-time champions. “They played exceptionally well but we fought for everything, our girls did brilliantly. Sometimes you can be undone in sport and a score such as that can be decisive. Today it’s disappointing and heartbreak for our girls, three in a row is a very hard thing to do and we are learning that the hard way”.

The Scariff man agreed that “some great camogie was played out there today, the girls have been absolutely superb, you could not fault them for what they have given to the game, to the sport. They have represented Clare with distinction whenever they have come out of the county. Today wasn’t our day and unfortunately we have had those days in the past. Today is one of the sad days not one of the joyous ones”.

“We will go away and lick our wounds tonight. No matter how dark the winter, the spring is just around the corner, we will see how that goes,” Alphie concluded.

Truagh/Clonlara made promise to follow success of hurlers CLARE SNR CAMOGIE FINAL

we were going to lose”.

Referring to Áine O’Loughlin’s matching winning score at the death she said “the call came TRUAGH/CLONLARA’s vic- in to take the point, but with torious senior camogie side the power and the accuracy that made themselves a promise Áine has she backed herself, it’s to replicate the success of the amazing”.

She continued, “we knew we Clonlara hurlers. had to be on our game to win Truagh/Clonlara were building towards this victory since this. Our objective was to start 2020 according to joint captain well”.

Awarded player of the match, Laura Foley who was named as Laura noted of the accolade, “it the player of the match in Saturcould have gone to anyone, evday’s final.

“We have been building to- eryone stood up and were leadwards this these last few years. ers”.

Speaking about the 20m free We contested three semi-finals and eventually got over that hur- in the third minute of added dle. This was our third final and, time which resulted in a goal, thankfully, we have now got over O'Loughlin told The Clare Echo, that hurdle”, she said amidst the “When you get an opportunity to hit the ball to the net you celebrations in Cusack Park."

She stated, “This is extra spe- must go for it. They were all cial after the hurling win. We all shouting on the sideline, throw went to village on Sunday eve- it over the bar, there is enough ning and we stood in a group time left to get another one but and said we were coming home there was only one thing on my mind. If I didn’t stick it I would to that this week”.

Foley who excelled at midfield have got killed. I knew we needsaid, “This means so much, par- ed a goal and thank God it went ticularly given all the injuries in because I would have been we have. Everybody had written killed if it didn’t”, she said amidst us off except our own group in receiving congratulations from which there was absolute belief team mates and supporters.

“There was no doubt but that and heart and that got us over I was going for it and thank God the line today”.

Laura always believed that I had the luck today, other days they would win this one even it mightn’t have gone in,” she rewhen they trailed in the closing flected.

According to the Truagh/ stages. “I felt there was no way Clonlara and Clare full forward, “this means everything to this team. We have faced a TRUAGH-CLONLARA SCARIFF-OGONNELLOE lot of challengFrees For: 14 (9/5) Frees For: 16 (7/9) es this year Wides: 6 (3/3) Wides: 2 (0/2) with injuries.

Scores from play: 2-8 Scores from play: 1-7 We have been Spread of scorers: 5 Spread of scorers: 4 Own puckouts won: 12 Own puckouts won: 11 written off out of 16 out of 19 from the start Bookings: None Bookings: Amy Barrett of the season, no one expectREFEREE: Fergal O’Brien (Broadford) ed anything Truagh Clonlara 2-11 Scariff-Ogonnelloe 1-13 Venue: Cusack Park, Ennis

STORY OF THE GAME

l Truagh/Clonlara’s Laura Foley takes on Abby Walsh and (below)

Áine O’Loughlin in action against Ciara Doyle Photos by Gerard O'Neill SCAN FOR REPORT

from us. The heart that is in this team really shone through today. We got over one obstacle after another and today is really the icing on the cake. We have achieved our goal”.

Praising the opposition she said “it’s special to beat Scariff/ Ogonnelloe, they are a phenomenal team. We have come up against them for the past couple of years. If you count the drawn game we have played three finals against them prior to today, we had our homework done, they are a brilliant team and we ha-

ven’t a bad word to say about them. Today is just brilliant”. Áine also acknowledged the part the victory by the Clonlara hurlers the previous week had played in the camogie success, her older brothers Micheál (corner forward) and Páraic (wing back) both played starring roles.

“If that didn’t put a fire in our bellies I don’t know what would, seeing the boys win really inspired us, we will celebrate this one and then we will start thinking about Munster”.

Unforgettable sporting week in Clonlara

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

A CLEARLY delighted Truagh/ Clonlara mentor Ryan Morris was lost for words. “Unbelievable, I cannot put words on this”, was his first reaction moments after the final whistle.

“We faced these moments in the last few years, they have been so hard on us, the last few minutes, not again. We just wanted to get that one chance you cannot think about, you get one chance and you have to go for it and what a strike by Áine. We said go for it. It will go down in history this week in the club let there be no regrets, no point in sitting back, die on your sword, if you lose you lose, no regrets”, he said as he reflected on what had just happened.

Past disappointments were used

to motivate Truagh/Clonlara, Ryan said. “We had lost the last two. I have never seen a group like this.

I don’t think any other team in the county would do what we did today, with the injuries we have had. We always believed, not once did the players mention an injury all year long, it was just the next girl up.

What a week for the club, I will never forget it”.

The club mentor who is also part of the Clare camogie management team had no doubt but that “the hurling win was a huge boost, it got an extra 5 to 10 per cent out of them. They wanted to go back to this venue and show what they could do. Look at the crowd here today, how proud they are”.

The delighted team mentor went on to pay a warm tribute to the beaten finalists. “Scariff/Ogonnelloe are so unlucky not to have won another

and I have no doubt but that they will be back again and they will be using this loss as fuel and I hope we are back again next year to face them, we have had great battles with them. We used the loss of the last two as motivation, all we wanted was Scariff- Ogonnelloe in the final.

"They bring out the best in us. We will celebrate for a few days, we will be ready for Munster, we want to go on and represent the county well like our opponents of today have done”.

PICTURED: Eimear Begley, Maeve Donnellan and Laura Foley.

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

27

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Nov 2, 2023

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Sport

O’Dea masterclass sends Banner Ladies into Munster final SCAN FOR REPORT

l Mark Rodgers receives the award from Christy Ryan

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Top scorer award for Rodgers

by Páraic McMahon news@clareecho.ie

l Niamh O’Dea celebrates with Caoimhe Cahill

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

GOALS GALORE AS U21 HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP CONTINUES U21 HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP

SCARIFF’S MARK Rodgers finished off his club season on a high by adding an award to his mantlepiece.

Lining out in the Clare senior hurling championship for the third year in a row, Rodgers set the way for his club as they reached the semi-finals for the first time since 2004.

Key to this was the form of Rodgers who clocked up a tally of 5-56 which saw him win the MD MyClubShop.ie / The Clare Echo top scorer of the senior hurling championship.

It is likely that this award won’t be the only one the Clare forward ends up with, he is in the running for Young Hurler of the Year and has also been nominated for an All-Star award off the

back of a promising season in attack for Brian Lohan’s men.

Cooraclare’s Martin Donnelly has sponsored the top scorer competition since 1990 and has been noted for his generosity to gaelic games and sporting organisations across the country.

MD MyClubShop.ie / The Clare Echo hurling top scorer: 1: Mark Rodgers 5-56 (Scariff) 2: David Reidy 4-39 (Éire Óg) 3: David Conroy 0-47 (St Joseph’s Doora/ Barefield) 4: Michael O’Malley 2-37 (Kilmaley) 5: Peter Duggan 4-30 (Clooney/Quin) 6: Shane McGrath 0-40 (Feakle) 7: Breffni Horner 3-27 (Crusheen) 8: Colm Cleary 3-26 (O’Callaghans Mills) 9: Cian O’Rourke 1-29 (Wolfe Tones) 10: John Conlon 1-27 (Clonlara)

DOORA/BAREFIELD, ENNISTYMON, BANNER & ST BRECKAN’S PREVAIL U21 FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP

SCAN FOR ROUND-UP

SCAN FOR ROUND-UP

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Éire Óg’s Andrew McElwee is surrounded by Doora/Barefield players

Photo by Mike Brennan

28

Thursday, Nov 2, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

Sport

Tasty ties in FAI Junior Cup

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A BIG weekend beckons for soccer in County Clare with third round ties in the FAI Junior Cup set to draw plenty of interest from local supporters.

Four clubs from the Clare District and Soccer League (CDSL) take to the field in the third round this weekend with only one guaranteed to be still standing by Sunday evening.

Roslevan hosts a mouth-watering tie at 11am on Sunday when Newmarket Celtic put their national title on the line against their biggest rivals, Avenue Utd in what will certainly be a tense affair and not alone will see one of the side’s eliminated but also their respective unbeaten runs this season.

Newmarket Celtic head into the game after claiming another piece of silverware, they were victorious in the President’s Cup on Saturday and look to keep their momentum going. Paddy Purcell’s side will face a different type of test this weekend but will be looking to their reliable cohort of Eoin Hayes, Shane Cusack, Harvey Cullinan and David McCarthy to guide them.

Avenue Utd defeated Tulla Utd last weekend in the Munster Junior Cup to advance to the last 32 but all eyes for them are now fixed on the national competition. Paddy O’Malley’s return to Australia has deprived them of a quality footballer while injury has hampered Steven McGann’s return to the club from Pike Rovers. Recent victories over Celtic in Roslevan will give confidence to Avenue but they will need an almighty display from key players such as Nnabuike Nneji, Mark Roche, Dylan Casey, Elias Kunz and Ronan Kerin to aid their cause.

Shannon Olympic have experienced a swell in numbers in their club allowing them to field a second string when questions on having a first team existed in recent seasons. Their fixture against Tralee Dynamos has been moved from Olympic Park to Frank Healy Park but 2pm remains the kick-off time.

Centre-half, Rob Clair who sustained a fractured ankle remains sidelined for ten weeks and will be watching with interest in Doora. “There’s good players there, we have a strong

bench compared with other years, we have a lot done in the background and we have two teams compared to struggling to field one team so it is a lot better,” he told The Clare Echo.

Recruitment has been effective for Olympic, he felt. “Our team used to be an ageing team with a lot of people who retired and we were stuck for players two or three years ago where we’d turn up to games with just the bare minimum, now we have recruited and have put in a lot of work behind the scenes to get younger players in, we’ve given it the two years where we now each other and they know the Olympic way, short-passes in and out, sticky and we’re used to playing with each other now so we can compete this year, we want to win the First Division League, that was our aim at the start of the season”.

Rob added, “We should give it to them, we’ll be right up there with them, they won’t be much better than ourselves and we will be hopeful of getting a result. With this competition you could be playing an average enough team on paper but in this competition you never know, it is all on the day and you can’t read into any team too much, they won’t think much of us but it is the type of competition where it all comes down to on the day."

Eoghan Fox’s match-winner saw Fair Green Celtic shock Killarney Athletic and they will be hopeful of taking another step forward when they meet Rathkeale AFC in Lees Rd on Sunday at 2pm. The Ennis club which is in existence since February 2022 is lining out in the FAI Junior Cup for the first time and face a side who won the Desmond League in 2018/19. Richie O’Grady remains at the helm with Fair Green where Ross McCarthy, Eddie Shaw and Bruce Piggot serve as pivotal players.

Action resumes in the Maloney Hardware Premier Division where Kilrush Rangers host Shannon Town (Sunday 11am) and Bridge Utd welcome Lifford to Sixmilebridge (2:15pm).

Subscribe to The Clare Echo (clareecho.ie) for access to a special edition of The Water Break which will be available from Friday previewing this big weekend in Clare soccer.

NEWMARKET CLAIM PRESIDENT’S CUP; AVENUE EDGE OUT TULLA SCAN FOR ROUND-UP

CDSL ROUND-UP

The victorious Avenue United team

Fitzgerald wins Ladies Hamper

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

DROMOLAND GOLF CLUB The ladies 18 hole hamper competition at the weekend was won by Aisling Fitzgerald with 42 points. She had two to spare over Anne McMahon with Fran Feighery a point further back.

Cathy Casey won the 9 hole competition with 23 points Meanwhile the men’s Bank holiday weekend competition was won by Declan Cusack with 43 points, one more than Dylan Brown. Daniel Lennon was third with 40 points followed by Clive Kelleher with a similar score.

Adam Merriman won the gross with 41 points EAST CLARE GOLF CLUB The ladies competition at the weekend was a fourball stableford event won by Catherine Minogue and Marie Donnellan with 46 points from Eileen Donnellan and Siobhan Shanahan who had a similar score.

Last week’s ladies 18 hole stableford competition was won

by Catherine Minogue (25) with 41 points while the Wednesday ladies competition was won by Siobhan Mulcahy, Brid Hayes, Mary Farrell and Mary Jo Minogue Last Friday's mixed scramble was won by Paul Husband, Terry Coughlan and Mary Hogan from Brendan Moloney, Jonathan Walsh and Mary Farrell with third place Willie Roche, Breda O'Loghlin and Noreen Skehan.

KILRUSH GOLF CLUB Pat Mulcahy (17) won the men’s

12 hole competition on Sunday with 29 points, one more than Billy Clarke (12).

The category winners were Dominic Enright (8) with 27 points, Geremiah Brennan (10) with 27 points and Michael J Hogan (13) with 27 points WOODSTOCK GOLF CLUB Kieran Patton (15) won the club singles at Woodstock at the weekend with 40 points. He had one to spare over Kevin Toner (10) with third spot filled by Ken O’Malley (11) who also had 39 points. Kieran Cunnane (2) won the gross with 34 points.

The Bank holiday Monday team of four Texas scramble was won

by Tony Neville, Steve Lahiffe, Liam O’Connor and Vincent McInerney with 44 nett.

The competition this weekend will be a club singles FANNY O’DEAS SOCIETY The Fanny O’Deas society had an outing to Shannon on Saturday when twenty four members played in the Paddy Corcoran sponsored scramble which was won by Brian Kilker, Tim Shanahan, TJ Monahan and Mark Cottam with 97 points.

In second place with 94 points were Pat Delap, Michael McMahon, Tom Monahan and Niall Coughlan followed by Declan Conway, Alan Hogan, Kevin Clohessy and Nigel Lynch with 91 point with fourth spot filled by Robert McMahon, Noel O Shea, Alan Carmody and Liam Hayes with 87 points. Nearest the pin was won by Gerry Lernihan while

Tony McMahon won the longest drive.

Later on Saturday evening the society’s captain’s (Tony McMahon) dinner took place at Fanny O’Deas where the player of the yer cup was presented to Tony McMahon.

The 2024 captain is Declan Conway with Peter O’Leary as vice captain GORT GOLF CLUB David Quirke (2) won category 1 with 38 points in the men’s 18 hole stableford competition at Gort at the weekend. Martin Flaherty (15) won category 2 with 43 points. Brian Monaghan (18) was the category 3 winner with 35 points with the category 4 honours going to Gary Kavanagh (23) witsh 40 points In Monday’s 18 hole singles stableford competition the category 1 winner was Noel O’Shaughnessy (10) with 41 points. The category 2 winner was Padraic Landers (12) with 43 points, Ollie Curtin (19) won category 3 with 40 points and Chris Fahy (22) won category 4 with 40 points The ladies Christmas hampers competition was an 18 hole singes stableford event which was won by Jane Joyce (19) with 45 points from Patricia Reddy (22) with 41 points. Marcella Killeen (23) was third with 38 points followed by Anne Connolly (19) with a similar score. Siobhan Forde (11) won the gross with 27 points.

The 9 hole singles stableford competition was won by Angela Fahey (26)

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Nov 2, 2023

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Ennis Girls power past Shannon RFC

by Dearbhla Parry

U14 Girls: Ennis RFC v Shannon RFC The U14 girls secured their first win of the league against Shannon in Coonagh.

With Ennis in control from the start, Sally Crowe almost scored a great individual try but for a try-saving tackle. Crowe layed it off to Lauren Reidy and Ennis were off the mark. Ennis took a couple of great forward tries from Sadbh McInerney and Saoirse Quinn. Shannon rallied back with a try before half time, leaving the score at 15-7.

Shannon started off the second half the better team, but some great defending kept them out. There were a lot of errors from both sides on the break down and Biborka capitalised on this by scoring a brace of tries with some great straight line running. Ennis had another debutant this week in Addison who had a great game for her first outing.

Ennis: Sadbh McInerney, Sophie Hanrahan, Amy Martin, Emma Hanrahan, Emma Browne, Saoirse Quinn, Sally Crowe, Rachel Hanrahan, Rachel Clark, Biborka Benko, Eve Tiernan, Lauren Reidy, Grace Kelly, Rebecca Toone, Addison Kelly and Niamh Browne.

U16 Girls Munster League: Ennis RFC 35 – 27 Shannon RFC The Ennis U16 girls kicked off their second league match against Shannon in an exciting game marked by a number of tries, strong carrying and yellow cards.

Shannon started off well with two tries in the first 10 minutes. The Ennis girls, captained by Aoife Martin, responded well with great line breaks by forwards Lucy Kelly and Eimear Meaney. This resulted in tries from the quick feet of Abi Kelly, the powerful carrying of Sarah Keavey and the powerful drive of Kathy Slattery. These were then all converted by the excellent kicking of Nicole Clarke. Ennis led at half time with

turk in Drumbiggle.

Reece Yeung scored the try of the day with a run from his own half. Strong performances were also displayed by Captain Shaun Woods, Colm Griffin, DD Corry, Thomas Connolly, Jamie Gillespie, Chris Rynne and out-half Harry Daniels.

Ennis: Sean Peoples, Jamie Culleton, Colm Griffin, Luke O’Connor, Ronan Donlan, Reece Corbett, Jamie Gillespie, Shaun Woods, Josh Cotter, Harry Daniels, Alex Pelczar, DD Corry, Thoams Connolly, Eoin Keane, Josh O’Halloran, Cillian Dinan, Cormac Dinan, Reece Yeung, Conor Quinn, Chris Rynne, Jake O’Donoghue and Josh Flynn.

l Ennis RFC's U14 girls secured their first league victory in Coonagh

a score of 21-15.

Play resumed with substitute Katie Murray coming on for the injured full back Laura Kate Ryan, who had made a great run to finish off the first half. An intense second half ensued with tries for both sides.

Shannon were awarded a penalty try to get within 8 points. Ennis were forced to pull out all the stops in defence, and Fia Doody, Aoife Martin and Nicole Clarke stepped up to the challenge with out-half Emma McGann steering the back-line well. Super tackling by scrum-half Grace Hoyne at the back of the scrum disrupted the Shannon possession.

Well-worked attacks by Maebh McCarthy, followed up by support from Eileen Keating, Siofra Enright and Holly Murphy, punched holes in the Shannon defence. Finally, the Ennis girls pushed over the line with front-row player Kathy Slattery getting

Saturday night treble for Duggan

by Michael Maher news@clareecho.ie

DONIE Duggan of Tulla was celebrating a treble in Galway on Saturday night.

The chief supporting contest was the A3 graded seventh contest in which Lissatouk Peggy, Dynamic Josie and Glynnscross Ted were all away well and lined across the track approaching the opening bend.

Rounding the bend Lissatouk Peggy tracked well to lead Dynamic Josie by a length and racing towards halfway the pair were two lengths clear of Donies Wood. As the runners approached the penultimate corner, the Kieran & Aaron Nugent of Ballyea-owned Dynamic Josie went to the front and led by two lengths into the straight but the daughter of Burgess Bucks & Allegra Blue was all out close home to hold the challenge of Donies Wood by half a length in 29.25 to complete a great treble for trainer Donie Duggan of Tulla.

The treble was initiated in the S8 graded fourth contest in which Doughuisce Lad (Ballymac Best-Believer) who kicked clear off the home bend, racing to a two length success over Lakeside Albert in 19.79.

The middle leg came in the very next contest an A5 graded affair in which Cloondarone Girl broke best and led towards the opening bend from Derra Bear with Cloneyogan Sydny close up along the rails as they rounded the opening bend. Turning down the back, Derra Bear went on and led from Cloneyogan Sydny by a length but approaching halfway the Siobhan Garraghy of Lahinch owned Cloneyogan Sydny moved through on the inner and took over in front nearing the third bend . Tracking well between the bends the son of Droopys Sydney & Tiermana Rum drew right

away to score by five & a half lengths from Derra Bear in 29.36.

Having been badly baulked on debut the Seamus McMahon of Cooraclare owned Lissatouk Rose made no mistake at the second attempt in race 3 as the daughter of Magical Bale & Lone Control made almost all to defeat Weekend Drinking by two & a half lengths in 29.70 .

In the concluding A2 graded 525 yards contest, Brickhill Buster was best away in the centre and racing towards the opening bend the son of Ballymac Best and Brickhill Sharon led Pats Best Girl by two lengths. Passing the halfway point Brickhill Buster really began to turn on the turbo as he began to power clear of his rivals to score by five & three quarter lengths from Pats Best Girl in 29.07 for Kilmihil owner John Collins & Mark Patterson.

Friday night's Galway card was a fun-filled family night to celebrate Halloween.

On the long run towards the opening bend in race 3 for this A4 graded 550 yards contest, Astro Kevin lengthened his stride to quickly open up a a three-length advantage over his rivals and seize control of the contest from an early stage. Astro Kevin made no mistake and she galloped all the way to the line to defeat Cragbrien Sydney by four & three quarter lengths in 30.54.

The Rachel Murray and Sean O’Riordan of Sixmilebridge-owned Derra Dolly never saw another rival as she made all the running to defeat Banter Blitz by two lengths in 29.34.

Gort trainer Albert Mullins got in on the act in the A3 graded 525 yards contest as the Mark Lane-owned Fantasy Penny recorded her fourth career success by three and a half lengths over Ballygibbon Cash in 29.42.

the well-deserved plaudits.

U13 Boys North Munster League: Ennis RFC 26 – 34 Old Crescent RFC Ennis showed great fighting spirit in a difficult U13 North Munster League game, rallying well in the second half.

After the first 15 minutes, Old Crescent got their second try and a 12-0 lead. Ten minutes later, they struck with another and at half-time, the score showed Ennis 0-17 Old Crescent.

In the second half, Old Crescent managed to score 3 more tries. Ennis' Robbie McMahon, Cian O’Dwyer and Colm O’Gara all scored as the Clare side added four second-half tries, bringing the final score to 26-34. Ennis showed a great skill with Alfie Treacy putting in a great performance.

U14 Boys: Ennis RFC v Kanturk RFC Ennis continue their unbeaten start to the season with a strong win against Kan-

U15 Boys: Ennis RFC 17 – 45 Nenagh RFC The U15 boys fought hard against Nenagh, but ultimately some poor tackling.

Tries were scored by Lewis O’Dwyer and Captain James Moloney.

Great effort was seen by Ennis players Lewis O’Dwyer, James Moloney, James Nihill, Michael O’Leary, Donnacha Begley, Dean Crowe and Diarmuid Egan.

Fixtures: U16 Girls Friendly: Ennis v Ballinasloe Saturday November 4; 11am in Drumbiggle U18 Girls League: Ennis v Shannon Saturday November 4; 12:30 in Drumbiggle U8 Blitz Sun, Nov 5; 10:30am in Newcastle West U10 Blitz Sunday November 5; KO TBC in Thomond U14 Boys League: Ennis v Shannon Sunday November 5; 11:am in Drumbiggle U16 Boys Friendly Sunday November 5; Kick-off TBC in Galway U18 Boys League: Ennis v Thurles Sunday November 5; Kick-off TBC in Thurles Senior Women League: Ennis v Tralee Sunday November 5; 13:00 in Tralee Senior Men League: Ennis v Chorca Duibhne Sunday November 5; 14:00 in Dingle

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Quiz

The Clare Echo Quiz first win an All-Ireland title?

How many All-Ireland junior titles have the Clare Camogie team won?

 What year did Ger Loughnane take over the senior hurling team?

The colors of the Clare flag was believed to be carried by who?

How many years did Davy Fitzgerald manage Clare for?

According to the 2016 census the population in Clare is?

What is the capacity of Cusack Park?

What former president did not live in Clare?

3years 4years 5years

19,000 25,000 28,000

In what year did the Clare football team win their first Munster title?

1905 1912 1917

Fionn mac Cumhail Brian Ború Oisin from Tír na n-óg

118,817 123,291 109,579

Michael D. Higgins Patrick Hillery Douglas Hyde

lQUESTION 5: In what year did the Clare football team win their first Munster title?

In the county coat of arms which symbol stands for the heritage?

The rose motif The tau cross The stag’s head

ANSWERS 10.The tau cross

1994 1995 1996

3 4 5

4.19,000

1914 1924 1934

5. 1917

 In what year did Clare hurlers

9. Douglas Hyde

3. 5years

8. 118,817 7. Brian Ború

2. 1995

6. 5

Can you spot the 7 differences

. light missing in background . addidas logo missing on shorts . writing on socks missing . BOI crest missing on jersey

1. 1914

Spot the Difference

Last weeks answers

. number 4 missing on jersey . red tape missing on strap on leg . addidas missing on jersey

Michelle Caulfield and Laura Foley lift the McMahon Cup

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

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The Clare Echo Crossword

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THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Nov 2, 2023

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Thursday, Nov 2, 2023 THE CLARE ECHO

Planning

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL DERRYFADDA, CLONLARA, CO CLARE I, John Hickey, am applying to the above authority for Permission for the following development on property at Derryfadda, Clonlara, Co Clare: Permission for the construction of a detached two storey dwelling, detached domestic garage/ store, new entrance, onsite wastewater treatment system, bored well, together with all associated ancillary and incidental site works The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL KNOCKROE, KILKEE, CO. CLARE Take notice that Aoife Haugh is applying to Clare County Council for retention permission for extension and alterations to existing house along with planning permission to renovate and alter the existing house along with all associated works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of Clare County Council during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL CAHURLIGANE, MULLAGH, ENNIS, CO. CLARE Take notice that Patrick Montgomery is applying

to Clare County Council for retention permission for extension and alterations to existing house and planning permission to renovate and extend the existing house along with all associated works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of Clare County Council during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL LISDEEN, KILKEE, CO. CLARE Take notice that Helen Fitzpatrick is applying to Clare County Council for retention permission for extension and alterations to existing dwelling house along with all associated works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of Clare County Council during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL HENRY STREET, KILRUSH, CO. CLARE Take notice that Andrew & Aoife Flood are applying to Clare County Council for planning permission for change of use of existing vacant commercial unit to a restaurant/café along with all associated works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of Clare County Council during its public opening hours and a submission

LEGAL NOTICES COURTS LICENCE NO LIC-12231 REVENUE LICENCE NO ENP0345 AN CHÚIRT DÚICHE THE DISTRICT COURT LICENSING (IRELAND) ACT 1833 SECTION 6 INTOXICATING LIQUOR ACT 1960 SECTION 29 NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATE OF TRANSFER OF A LICENCE DISTRICT COURT AREA OF ENNIS DISTRICT NO 12 John Foudy Applicant TAKE NOTICE that the abovenamed Applicant John Foudy, of 89 Knock Road, Claremorris, Co Mayo intends to apply to the Annual Licensing Court to be held at the Court at Ennis District Court on the 8th December 2023 at 10.30am for the TRANSFER to the Applicant of the Publican’s Licence ( 6 day ) licence attached to the premises at Parliament Street, Ennistymon, Co Clare in the court area and district aforesaid Dated 31st October 2023 Signed C.N. Doherty & Co Solicitors for Applicant 11 Steele’s Terrace, Ennis, Co. Clare To the Garda Superintendent, at Courtpresenters.Ennis@garda.ie, Ennis Garda Station, Ennis, Clare, V95 TR83 To The Fire Officer at fireoff@ clarecoco.ie, Clare Fire Station, Ennis, V95 CD74 To the Health Service Executive Official at pehoclare@hse.ie To The District Court Clerk, Ennis District Court

or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

EASY TO USE SERVICE

AN CHUIRT DUICHE NO. 66.1 THE DISTRICT COURT GAMING AND LOTTERIES ACT 1956 SECTION 15 APPLICATION FOR A CERTIFICATE DISTRICT COURT AREA OF ENNIS DISTRICT NO. 12 Banner Amusements Limited APPLICANT TAKE NOTICE that the abovenamed Applicant, Banner Amusements Limited, of 43 Parnell Street, Limerick will apply to the Court sitting at Ennis District Court on the 22 November 2023 at 10:30 for a certificate under section 15 of the Gaming and Lotteries Act, 1956 (No. 2 of 1956), authorising the issue of a licence permitting gaming at an amusement hall or funfair, namely Biggles Casino situate at Lower Drumbiggle Road, Ennis, Co. Clare, V95 P462 in said court area, subject to such conditions as may be imposed in accordance with section 15(4) of the said Act. The number and kinds of games proposed to be carried on are as follows:- Number of Machines: 40 Gaming Type Details: Video Poker Gaming Machines and Slot Gaming Machines The period in the particular year to which this application relates for which the licence is sought is 2024.

AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that the applicant will rely on the following matters in support of the application:1. The forms of entertainment other than gaming to be provided are as follows: Assorted video games and amusement games, coffee bar, TV sports and music entertainment Dated this 24th day of October 2023 Signed MHP Sellors LLP Solicitor for Applicant 9/10/11 Bindon Street, Ennis, Co. Clare To the District Court Clerk at Ennis District Court And to the Superintendent of the Garda Síochána at Ennis Garda Station, Ennis, Co. Clare And to the Fire Officer, Clare Fire Station, Ennis, Co. Clare And to Clare County Council

AN CHUIRT DUICHE NO. 66.1 THE DISTRICT COURT GAMING AND LOTTERIES ACT 1956 SECTION 15 APPLICATION FOR A CERTIFICATE DISTRICT COURT AREA OF ENNIS DISTRICT NO. 12 Mystic Tide Limited APPLICANT TAKE NOTICE that the abovenamed Applicant, Mystic Tide Limited, of 3 Trimgate Street, Navan, Co. Meath will apply to the Court sitting at Ennis District Court on the 22 November 2023 at 10:30 for a certificate under section 15 of the Gaming and Lotteries Act, 1956 (No. 2 of 1956), authorising the issue of a licence permitting gaming at an amusement hall or funfair, namely Imperial Entertainment situate at 67 Parnell Street, Ennis, Co, Clare, V95 NH01 in said court area, subject to such conditions as may be imposed in accordance with section 15(4) of the said Act. The number and kinds of games proposed to be carried on are as follows:- Number of Machines: 50 Gaming Type Details: Video roulette, assorted fruit machines, video and slot gaming machines The period in the particular year to which this application relates for which the licence is sought is 2024.

AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that the applicant will rely on the following matters in support of the application:1. The forms of entertainment other than gaming to be provided are as follows: Assorted video games, TV entertainment, tea and coffee refreshments Dated this 24th day of October 2023 Signed MHP Sellors LLP Solicitor for Applicant 9/10/11 Bindon Street, Ennis, Co. Clare To the District Court Clerk at Ennis District Court And to the Superintendent of the Garda Síochána at Ennis Garda Station, Ennis, Co. Clare And to the Fire Officer, Clare Fire Station, Ennis, Co. Clare And to Clare County Council

PLACE YOUR PLANNING NOTICES WITH THE CLARE ECHO CALL 065 671 9021 EMAIL SALES@CLAREECHO.IE

THE CLARE ECHO Thursday, Nov 2, 2023

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