The Clare Echo 03/10/24

Supermac’s plaza targets 2025 opening

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

SUPERMAC’S will dig into construction of its plaza on the outskirts of Ennis as soon as contracts can be awarded.

Managing Director of Supermac’s, Pat McDonagh said construction on the €10m plaza will commence once contracts have been finalised.

Between 120 to 140 people will be em ployed at the Plaza which will be lo cated at junction 12 of the M18 at Kilbreckan in Doora.

Before a shovel has been put in the ground, McDonagh said that €1.5m plus has already been spent on fees on architects, engi-

neers, surveys and legal costs. He is hopeful the Plaza could be opened next year.

Cllr Pat Daly (FF) predicted, “It will be a landmark stop for people travelling from Galway to Kerry and Limerick to Donegal. There was no stop between the cities of Limerick and Galway on the motorway before this so Ennis and Clare will benefit”. He added, “It won’t affect one business in the town of Ennis, in fact it will be a massive lift to Ennis and the county”.

Memories to last a lifetime - Paul Flanagan has announced his inter-county retirement, he is pictured with Ollie and Luke Barrett, nephews of his wife Sarah, in Croke Park

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Senator calls for statutory enquiry into death of Aoife Johnston to bring closure to her family

A CLARE Senator has called for the establishment of a statutory enquiry “to bring closure to the family of Aoife Johnston and establish the true facts of the night” that led to her tragic death in University Hospital Limerick writes Páraic McMahon.

Health activists have described the report published by retired Chief Justice Frank Clarke into Aoife’s death in December 2022 as harrowing but Senator Dooley maintained it failed abysmally to establish the clear facts around what happened on the night.

Senator Dooley said that Mr Justice Clarke’s report, the initial Dr Vida Hamilton report and the inquest into the death of Aoife Johnston had all failed to provide the answers the family deserve around the factual circumstances that contributed to her death.

Clarity is glaringly lacking, the Mountshannon native said and he pointed to the investment of thousands of hours to try ascertain the truth to only result in a “blame game”.

He said, “What’s not in dispute here is that something really wrong happened on that night in UHL. And it’s not exclusive to that night as mismanagement has pervaded this hospital for far too long. But on that night,

it crystalised in the worst possible way. A teenage girl lost her life, her parents, James and Carol, have been left without a daughter and Meagan and Kate have been left without a sister.

“What is in dispute, however, is what caused this and the Johnston family and the people of the Mid-West deserve answers. In this country, justice must prevail, we must get answers when things go wrong, particularly terribly wrong like it did here. We typically get that but right now people are pointing fingers at each other and the noise goes on but the Johnston family’s entitlement to truth and justice is ignored. This noise instead needs to be filled with clarity and closure for her family. In filling it, we send a clear message, set a new standard for that hospital that bad practise won’t be tolerated and that, in turn, will lead to a better, safer hospital going forward.

“If we get to there, it will be an additional legacy for Aoife. At least then we can say that while her death should have been avoided, what came out of it made this hospital a better place for everyone else across the region,” he said.

Senator Dooley said he had some understanding about why Mr Justice Clarke’s hands were tied in terms

of getting to the bottom of what happened but that does not recuse the HSE from getting the answers needed.

“Mr Justic Clarke, it seems, was instructed clearly not to apportion blame and it is, indeed, welcome that he came up with recommendations in the report. But all we have to do is look at the response from the Johnston family to this. They are, to use their own word, bewildered.

“So, what we now need is to get this matter dealt with under a statutory inquiry where the truth can be traversed, where everyone involved in this can be brought into a proper, thorough forum that discovers what happened on the night that Aoife died. We will get to the bottom of what decisions or instructions were taken that should not have been taken, what action wsa sought by frontline staff that was not implemented and what, indeed, was the culture in the hospital, and who was responsible for it, that allowed all of this to happen. We need to know how significant was the management failure in this and ultimately what caused a teenage girl to die. Bernard Gloster, the Chief Executive of the HSE, has said ‘we failed Aoife’. It’s time to end the failure and put this right, with a statutory enquiry”.

Young St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield supporters in Cusack Park at the Clare SFC quarter-final between Éire Óg and Doora/ Barefield. Photo by Ruth Griffin

WESTFIELDS, LIMERICK ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

HOLLAND PLACE, LISCANNOR, CO. CLARE 35 CLUAIN FIA, CRUSHEEN, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

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47 SYCAMORE DRIVE, LIMERICK ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

ROSLEVAN, TULLA ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

2 CHURCH DRIVE, CLARECASTLE, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

FERGUS MANOR, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

2 MEADOW COURT, CLONROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

5 DROMARD, LAHINCH ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

137 ACHA BHILE, LAHINCH ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

43 CATHEDRAL COURT, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

ASHFIELD HOUSE, CUSACK ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

42 ASHFIELD PARK, GORT ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

OAKWOOD, SIXMILEBRIDGE, CO. CLARE REASKAUN, LARCH HILL, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

2 OAKWOOD, SIXMILEBRIDGE, CO. CLARE

GALLOWS HILL, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

SYCAMORE DRIVE, LIMERICK ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

ROSLEVAN, TULLA ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

2 CHURCH DRIVE, CLARECASTLE, ENNIS, CO. CLARE 16 FERGUS MANOR, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

2 MEADOW COURT, CLONROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

5 DROMARD, LAHINCH ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

137 ACHA BHILE, LAHINCH ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

43 CATHEDRAL COURT, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

ASHFIELD HOUSE, CUSACK ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

ASHFIELD PARK, GORT ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

2 OAKWOOD, SIXMILEBRIDGE, CO. CLARE

REASKAUN, LARCH HILL, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

2 OAKWOOD, SIXMILEBRIDGE, CO. CLARE

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Negotiations ongoing for future ownership of Cliffs of Moher coastal walk

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A NORTH CLARE councillor has claimed the Clare Local Development Company (CLDC) are “not willing to leave the pitch” regarding their ownership of the Cliffs of Moher coastal walk.

At the beginning of August, safety works commenced along sections of the 18km scenic coastal walk following health and safety concerns raised following the tragic deaths of a twelve year old boy in July who went missing after being separated from his family at the Cliffs of Moher and the death of a woman in her twenties after she reportedly lost her footing when walking with friends.

Clare Local Development Company manage the walking route while the County Council is responsible for management and public safety of the 800m section of the walk at the Cliffs of Moher Experience site. Launched in 2013, the official trail heads between Doolin Community Centre and Liscannor football field with the Cliffs of Moher in between and spawns across land belonging to 37 landowners. North Clare representa-

tives, Cllr Shane Talty (FF), Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG), Cllr Bill Slattery (FG) and Cllr Joe Killeen (FF) at the September meeting of Clare County Council called on the Chief Executive “to urgently engage with Clare Local Development Company to discuss the future management of the walk”.

Speaking at that meeting, Chief Executive Pat Dowling said the local authority needs “full control” of the walk to make it safe.

An update on negotiations was sought by Cllr Killeen at the recent meeting of the West Clare Municipal District. Acting Director of Service in the Tourism Directorate, John O’Malley confirmed that he and Dowling met with the CLDC “to discuss the latest in relation to the Coastal Walk and agreed that continuing to work in close partnership was key to ensuring clarity and success. Both parties are working to ensure that the necessary works are completed on the walk to ensure its safe reopening as soon as possible. A Management Plan for the Coastal Walk is due to be completed in the coming weeks.

“If the Plan recommends

that Clare County Council are best placed to manage the Coastal Walk into the future, CLDC have confirmed that they will support this provided that the landowners are in agreement. In that scenario, CLDC will continue to have a role in communications with landowners as required and advise on the scheme, for the duration of the transition period. Discussions are also ongoing with the IFA with the intention being to reach agreement acceptable to all in relation to the full coastal walk. Discussions/meetings also are ongoing with landowners outside the IFA. These discussions will continue with the intention being to agree a plan agreeable to all parties to ensure the delivery of a safe Cliffs Coastal Walk to the highest standard that is fully managed into the future,” O’Malley added.

Consulting engineers, TOBIN were appointed in December 2023 to develop a Management Plan for the Coastal Walk. A draft management process was due to be completed in recent days which was expected to highlight the inadequacies of the current model and recommend an operational and

management Model with a clear lead management structure, maintenance plan and stakeholder role into the future.

Success of the walk has been “unexpected but really welcome because the whole idea is for long-stay tourism and to support tourism based business in North Clare,” commented Cllr Killeen. He added, “The question we have at the moment is the upkeep of the walk, it is important they would cooperate with other agencies to get a plan in place and allow it to continue into the future and support long-stay tourism. I know talks are taking place and there is sensitivity around it”. He said, “Safety is number one priority for those using the walk. I am happy to hear all groups are all talking. We are waiting for the Tobin Report, hopefully we will get repairs completed and the walk reopened”.

Seconding the proposal, Cllr Talty stressed, “Our central motivation is to ensure a safe reopening ASAP, that is number one shared priority, there are a lot of sensitivities, we welcome the engagement from all parties”. Cllr Garrihy said, “We’re all of the same

mind on this, we’re unanimous in our support for the best outcome”.

Hurdles remain according to Cllr Slattery, “To me it looks as if it is still the same, the CLDC are not wiling to leave the pitch and want to still be involved, we felt Clare County Council wanted to be the single body but according to the Chair of CLDC that will not take place now”.

Councillors still “have an open mind,” Killeen responded. “The CLDC, Clare County Council and other agencies are looking at maximising the

benefit from the walk”. He continued, “We need to keep an open mind, the negotiations are ongoing because it is all for the benefit of the county, tourism is the bedrock of industry and communities in North Clare. It is the number one industry in North Clare”.

O’Malley told the meeting he has been in “daily discussions” with the CLDC are they are “going very well”. He said, “all key stakeholders have been brought to the table so we want to ensure the best outcome for everybody”.

Moroney throws his name in the mix for Dáil Éireann bid

SUCKLER farmer, Matthew Moroney (IND) has announced he is bidding to win a seat in Dáil Éireann and will be contesting the upcoming General Election.

No date has yet been set for the General Election but speculation is mounting that the people of Ireland will be heading to the polls on either November 15th or November 22nd. Clare’s ballot paper has a new addition to it with confirmation that Broadford native Moroney is throwing his name in the ring. He confirmed his candidacy to The Clare Echo, “I may be from East Clare but I intend to represent the entire county if I am elected as a Clare TD”. Matthew who works in Arrabawn

Co-op in Bridgetown contested the local elections as an Independent Ireland where he polled 860 first preference votes before he was eliminated on the sixth and final count in the Killaloe Municipal District. Health services is a big focus for Moroney. “I’ve been seeing how things are going for the last couple of years in health and our hospitals but nothing has been done about it and there is no end in sight for the ongoing chaos at University Hospital Limerick. There are groups doing a lot of good work for Ennis Hospital but there doesn’t seem to be any real enthusiasm from Government to do anything so I want to see if I can make a difference”. He said he will

“fight vigorously” for a model-three hospital in Ennis plus a new hospital for the Mid-West to be located in Clare

He has listed mental health awareness, cost of living supports, supports for businesses, delivery of more social and affordable homes, supports for the farming sector, increased services for Shannon Airport and greater assistance for the elderly, disabled and carers as part of his campaign manifesto.

In the 2020 General Election of the four TDs elected in Clare, Joe Carey (FG) received the lowest first preference with 5,684. On what he believes how he can grow his first preference of 860 in the local elections to a figure

in excess of 5,000, Matthew said, “the local election was always going to be tricky because I was running against five sitting councillors who have been there a long time with fifteen to twenty five years between them so it was always going to be hard to win a seat but I thought I gave it a good shot. For a finish, I was 232 votes off a seat and I think I gave people a shock with how I finished”.

He confirmed that he spoke with Independent Ireland before declaring as a fully Independent candidate for the General Election. “Every Independent Ireland candidate for the local elections still had to fund their entire campaign unlike other political parties, we were ambassadors for

them and their logo and I think I am better off to be on my own as a fully Independent candidate”. Moroney is a former member of Fianna Fáil and attempted to get the party’s nomination to contest the 2024 local elections. For the local elections, Matthew did not participate in election debates organised by The Clare Echo and Clare FM. He committed to partake in equivalent events if they proceed this time round. “I will be on the debates, every sector gets a busy time in the year and unfortunately the agri-sector was very busy then, some interviews were not catered to people working fulltime and it was easier for people who are self-employed or retired”.

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

Council confirm they are not registered owners of vacant Lus na Sli lands in Miltown Malbay Ennis Supermacs plaza gets green light

have confirmed they are not the registered owners of green areas in the Lus na Si housing estate in Miltown Malbay.

Many hurdles delayed the construction and completion of the thirty four house social housing scheme which had an initial contract value of €4,099,752 in 2010, including the developer entering liquidation plus building subcontractors and suppliers mounting a blockage restricting access to the site in November 2010 as part of a protest over unpaid labour and materials.

Lus na Si was back in throes of debate among county councillors in recent weeks when both Cllr Bill Slattery (FG) and Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) raised the matter. “On behalf of the residents of Lus Na Si estate on the Mullagh road Miltown Malbay, I wish to seek clarification and confirmation if the green area and other lands in the estate are in full ownership of Clare County Council (Leases etc). Who is responsible for grass cutting, management and maintenance and are there plans for further developments to take place on the excess green area of the estate,” Slattery questioned.

Engagement between all stakeholders and the community of Miltown Malbay was sought by Cllr Garrihy “for the purpose of developing public amenities, car parking and en-

hancement at the vacant site entering Lus Na Si homes Mullagh Road. Enhancement and development of this site has the potential to add significant value to the surrounding area including immediate adjoining homes and St Joseph’s Miltown Malbay National school”. Acting senior executive officer in the West Clare Municipal District, John Corry confirmed that the green areas in the estate are not in the ownership of Clare County Council. He stated, “accordingly therefore Clare County

Council is not responsible for the grass cutting, management and maintenance of this area. The West Clare MD can engage with the landowners and local stakeholders to investigate the potential for development of these lands , which are zoned Community (1) & Open Space (2) in the current Clare County Development Plan 2023-2029”.

When canvassing the area prior to the local elections in June, Cllr Slattery recalled that there was a woman trying to push a lawnmower “through a meadow” of green grass adjacent to the estate attempting to cut “a massive amount of grass”. He added, “residents say a hole has been left in the ground by a group or certain individuals”.

Lahinch based Slattery said a community centre project was proposed for the area in 2006 with a working group of 54 people established leading to the purchase of the site, completion of a feasibility study which calculated an estimated cost of €1.5m but the project fell through. “Who are the stakeholders? If Clare County Council don’t own it, who does? I can’t understand how Clare County Council would purchase ground and leave the rest for something else. Who is responsible that I can go to on who will maintain this piece of ground,” he asked.

“There is something disingenuous to say the Council developed the social houses and left areas undefined, the lands identified on piece two are logically the open space for the estate and we’re saying it has nothing to do with us, there are really good residents there who are fed up of trying to cut this grass on a voluntary basis,” observed Cllr Shane Talty (FF).

Facts on the ground need to be established, Cllr Garrihy insisted. “It is an opportunity for

a win win, deal with the issues outlined on management and maintenance and at the same time add to the investment already made, €350,000 has already raised by the community for the school project where parking is already needed”. He continued, “There is a real opportunity there to deal with a lot of issues and at the same bring about a lot of benefit”.

Similar problems existed in Kilrush where land was owned by a semi-state company, Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) recalled. “How does it fare out when residents go in there, I thought we could go through Carmel Greene (property management department) to force their hand but she has no authority”. He suggested charging a commercial rate for the lack of maintenance, “surely we have a role in forcing their hand, at the minute people can walk away and leave it overgrown”.

Addressing the meeting, Corry said he agreed with the sentiment raised by both councillors who tabled motions. “There are GDPR implications so I can’t say who owns the site. We have an appetite to engage with the local community group to look at the potential for enhancing that area, it is zoned with two different zonings on the site, we will certainly come to the table and engage with the local community group.”.

When questioned by Cllr Slattery on whether both sites were registered to the same group, Corry confirmed they were and that they were registered in the land registry office.

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

CONSTRUCTION on the €10m Supermac’s Plaza in Ennis will begin as soon as contracts can be awarded, the Managing Director of the restaurant chain has said.

On Friday, the High Court dismissed the judicial review application against the decision of An Bord Pleanála to grant planning permission for his motorway service station on the M18 outside Ennis. This was the fourth planning application made by Supermac’s for the development of a plaza at junction 12 of the M18 at Kilbreckan in Doora. Managing Director of Supermac’s, Pat McDonagh has previously said 120 to 140 people are expected to be employed at the Ennis plaza with an additional 100 jobs in the construction phase.

An Bord Pleanála in 2022 upheld a decision by Clare County Council to grant permission. The development was stalled when chartered civil engineer, Michael Duffy from Kilfenora, brought a judicial review proceedings before the High Court seeking to overturn the decision.

Mr Justice David Holland dismissed the proceedings this week, rejecting Mr Duffy’s complaint that An Bord Pleanála “failed to have regard to or engage with his submissions”.

Before a shovel has been put in the ground, McDonagh said that €1.5m plus has already been spent on fees on architects, engineers, surveys and legal costs. He is hopeful the Plaza could be opened next year.

In a statement to The Clare Echo, Mr McDonagh said the decision represents the fruit of ten years work since the decision to develop the Plaza was made. “I would like to thank the in-house team and external consultants who persevered with this project over the last ten years. I would also like to

thank Justice Holland for his detailed judgment that upholds the planning permission granted by Clare County Council and that was upheld by An Bord Pleanála,” he said. He added, “The length of time taken to secure planning permission was regrettable. No gain was achieved from the prolonged process to which planning applications are subjected because of a pointless and costly judicial review roundabout being conducted in a bubble in which a number of applicants for judicial review have become serial lay litigants whose costs are sheltered by guarantee under Section 50b of the Planning Acts”. He said he welcomes the limiting of this disincentive to development as provided for in the 2023 Planning Bill.

According to the Supermac’s MD, construction will commence as soon as contracts can be awarded, and pre-development planning conditions are met. “I determined from the very outset that the benefit for Ennis town and North and West Clare will be emphasised by ensuring that the Plaza will promote the attractiveness of Ennis and the magnificent Clare landscape as important tourist assets in the county”.

Cllr Pat Daly (FF) who was the only politician in the county to put his name on the planning file expressing his support for the development welcomed the decision. “It is great news not alone for Ennis but for the entire county from a tourism outlook. It will be a landmark stop for people travelling from Galway to Kerry and Limerick to Donegal. There was no stop between the cities of Limerick and Galway on the motorway before this so Ennis and Clare will benefit”.

“It won’t affect one business in the town of Ennis, in fact it will be a massive lift to Ennis and the county,” the former Mayor of Ennis predicted.

Lus na Si housing estate

The Town Hall Bistro

Providing a welcoming environment with great value food championing local ingredients.

The Poets Corner Bar

A traditional Irish pub that opens its doors onto the main town street of Ennis. Perfect for a pint, a bite to eat or traditional Irish music session..

Ideal for special occasions. The menu features traditional cuisine with a modern day creative twist.

The Brendan O'Regan Restaurant is ideal for special occasions. The menu features traditional cuisine with a modern day creative twist.

The Brendan O’Regan Restaurant

‘Rail spur to Shannon Airport is viable’

DELVERING A RAIL spur to Shannon Airport is a realistic proposal and one that can transform the entire Mid-West region, the Chief Executive of Iarnród Éireann has said.

Jim Meade, CEO of Iarnród Éireann who is also a native of Cooraclare has said initial scoping to the tune of €5m will need to be completed to identify preferred routes and complete a detailed design for a rail spur to Shannon Airport. The total cost for constructing a rail spur to the international airport would cost hundreds of millions of euros.

Provision of a rail spur to Shannon Airport is referenced in the €165bn National Development Plan which runs from 2021 to 2030 while it is also one of the key aspects of the revised draft Limerick Shannon Metropolitan Area Transport Strategy (LSMATS).

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Meade explained the significance of its inclusion in the LSMATS. “The Shannon Airport rail link is now part of a long-term vision for the country, while it has been mentioned for years, the all-island strategic rail review now has that as one of the items in it to be delivered up to 2050, the next step is to do a scope of the works, identify the pre-

ferred route, run costings and detailed design, that is part of the public spending code and only takes a small bit of money relatively, a couple of million over the next couple of years will take us to a point where we can go back to Cabinet and say this is the preferred route, these are the indicative costings and do we go to a procurement process and rail reorder process, heretofore it was desirable but it is now part of a vi-

sion document saying these things will be done over time, we take it to the next step”.

Estimating total costs of a project “would be dangerous,” he said. “We need to do the detailed designs and the detailed costings to give us a firm number”.

Given that the work in justifying the cause will likely run up costs in the region of €5m, there would need to be strong backing to see if

the wheels could ever be in motion for a project of the scale. “We have to look at these projects and see. You’re trying to have a pipeline of projects which will be delivered over time, you have to look at all projects, there is a small element of chicken and egg, you have to spend a little to find out if a project is viable, it is not an insubstantial amount of money but for the project it will deliver over time it is not really significant and in the overall cost of the project is it not significant.

“This is a piece of infrastructure that will benefit the Mid-West longterm, we shouldn’t just think of it as a Shannon Airport link, it is all the communities be it Cratloe, Sixmilebridge or Bunratty depending on whichever route we take to go in, what that means for the Mid-West region as a whole, you have to look at a regional basis, we constantly talk about having a counter-balance to Dublin and developing the western seaboard with the four key cities of Galway, Limerick, Cork and Waterford to create that counter balance, this is about infrastructure for the region and long-term benefit for the region”.

Shannon Airport would be the only airport in the country with a rail spur which heightens potential fear that heavy hitters such as the

daa will move to block a proposal like this coming to fruition but Meade disagreed. “We need multiple alternatives, Dublin Airport is going to crow and will continue to grow, I think the cap will need to be lifted in Dublin Airport but the country as a whole is going to grow, in another decade or so we will be back at pre-Famine numbers in the island of Ireland, our population is growing so is the demand for all airports be it Knock, Shannon and Cork, it is not all about Dublin and we need those counter balances”.

Regardless of the outcome of the next General Election, Meade said the LSMATS will not change. “We now have a template and a plan which we’re working to for the next couple of years and in fairness all parties in Government have signed off on it, they all see the benefit of infrastructure, as a nation we realise that we need to build infrastructure be that housing, power, water or transport. We can all look back with rose-tinted glasses and say that should have been, that was the mistake from the last crash in 2008 and 2009 is that we should have continued to build infrastructure, all parties in Government are supportive of the overall plan and the need to build infrastructure”.

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

l Irish Rail CEO Jim Meade

Forensic experts complete fresh post mortem on remains of Patrick Nugent

by

A STATE post mortem on the remains of Patrick Nugent has been completed.

An Garda Síochána confirmed on Thursday evening that the post mortem has been completed. “The results of the post mortem are not being released for operational reasons,” a spokesperson confirmed.

Arrangements for the re-internment of Patricks’ remains at Feenagh Cemetery will be made in conjunction with the local coroner and Patrick’s family.

At dawn last Tuesday morning, Gardaí began the process of exhuming Patrick’s remains. Mr Nugent was working as a banqueting manager at Bunratty Castle, when he was found dead in the Folk Park near the popular tourist attraction on 11th February 1984.

In an original post-mortem conducted forty years ago, it detailed that Patrick suffered “abdominal injuries which were consistent with crushing”. Senior investigating officer, Inspec-

tor David Finnerty said when questioned on what could be gauged from the findings four decades ago said, “this is a fresh post-mortem and I am not going to pre-judge any matters that arise out of that report”.

He was hopeful advances in technology over the intervening four decades could offer fresh information. “In conjunction with the State Pathologist, Forensic Science Ireland and forensic anthropologists, this fresh post-mortem may present opportunities to this investigation team. In addition and most importantly, it may provide clarity from the Nugent family”.

“Every investigation presents challenge, this investigation is forty years old, forty years ago the investigation team didn’t have the benefit of a forensic collision expert, we have that and a forensic collision expert has visited and examined The Barn,” Insp Finnerty outlined. He said it was “hoped” the forensic collision expert would be able to use information from 1984 in their analysis.

Allegations that Patrick’s

death was not properly investigated were considered by an independent review mechanism in 2014, which recommended that the case be examined under the Section 42 provisions of the Garda Síochána Act 2005.

Following the conclusion of the Clyne Report in October 2020, a 111 page inquiry completed by retired judge Patrick Clyne was eventually handed to the Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee (FG) in November 2021, this led to the commencement of a fresh investigation in 2022 which continues and resulted in the move to exhume Patrick’s remains.

An Garda Síochána continue to appeal to any person with information in relation to the death of Patrick Nugent to contact the Incident Room at Shannon Garda Station on (061)365900, the Garda confidential number 1800 666 111 or any member of An Garda Síochána at any Garda Station.

Catherine Young Dance brings Floating on a Dead Sea to glór

Catherine Young Dance is delighted to present Floating on a Dead Sea at glór on Thursday October 31st. The work is inspired by Young’s time in Palestine and features a cast of international dancers, stunning visuals by filmmaker Luca Truffarelli and live music directed by Martin Schärer, with Jade O’Connor (vocals/ spoken word) and Colm Ó’Snodaigh (whistle/vocals).

Floating on a Dead Sea presents two interconnected works: Young and Truffarelli’s documentary, viewed through a choreographer’s lens, alongside a powerful live performance, re-worked for the new context in 2024. Both pieces weave movement, film, live music, and text to illuminate Palestinian daily life.

Floating on a Dead Sea is a chance to look and listen more deeply, especially to those whose voices are often unheard.

Prior to the performance, there will be a screening of Floating on a Dead Sea (the documentary), an intensely powerful film offering a glimpse into life under occupation in Palestine in 2019. The film was created in 2020, when lockdown threatened the development of the live performance.

Violvetine; Quentin Cooper and Severin Pigot with

Brian Fleming will lead an after-show session in glór foyer, along with local musicians, members of the cast and the North Clare Refugee Allstars.

A Catherine Young Dance production in association with Backstage Theatre. Funded by the Arts Council Touring Award, with the support of Town Hall Theatre, Galway. Originally commissioned by Dublin Dance Festival with the support of the Arts Council of Ireland, Backstage Theatre and Kerry County Council.

CATHERINE YOUNG DANCE PRESENTS FLOATING ON A DEAD SEA THURSDAY 31 OCTOBER 8PM │ TICKETS €20/€18 CONC. + €1 BOOKING FEE

‘An immersive and visceral reflection on life in the West Bank, Palestine prior to the 2023/24 war interweaving dance, film, live music & text.’

l Gardaí began the process of exhuming Patrick’s remains

Photo by Joe Buckley

Photo by Alaa Aliabdallah

Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

l: A so-called ‘give-away Budget’ was announced this week

Giveaway Budget lands with overall package of €10.5bn

two equal payments, one before the end of 2024 and one after

AN OVERALL package of €10.5 billion has been set out in Budget 2025, this is made up of once-off measures worth €2 billion, total expenditure of €6.9 billion and additional capital expenditure of €1.6 billion and permanent tax changes of 1.4 billion for 2025.

Budget 2025 was delivered by Minister for Finance Jack Chambers (FF) and Minister for Public Expenditure Paschal Donohoe (FG).

The State’s independent budgetary watchdog, the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council, has warned that Budget 2025 repeats Ireland’s past mistakes of putting billions into the economy when it is at full employment.

Here are some of the key announcements from the Budget.

Social Welfare:

- A social protection package worth almost €2bn has been announced in Budget 2025, described as the largest in the history of the State.

- Double payments for some social welfare recipients in October

- €12 increase for those receiving the weekly Social Protection payment

- Carer’s allowance means test disregard to increase to €625 for a single person and €1,250 for a couple

- Domiciliary care allowance to increase by €20 and carer’s support grant to rise by €150 to €2,000

Cost of living:

- Minister Chambers announced a cost-of-living package worth €2.2bn, designed to “support the most vulnerable and ease the financial burden over the winter months”.

- Energy credit of €250 for all households to be paid in

Mixed reactions from Clare politicians to Budget 2025

by

Senator Roisin Garvey (GP) said the Budget focused on improving the lives of our children, families and the environment while also planning and providing for the future. She said both she and Minister for Children, Roderic O’Gorman (GP) for the ‘baby boost payment’ which will see €420 paid to new parents on the birth of their child from January.

- Proposal for the 9% reduced VAT rate for gas and electricity to be extended for another six months to 30 April 2025

- Further €300 lump sum payment to fuel allowance recipients in November

- Additional €200 for recipients of the living alone allowance

Cigarettes, vapes and alcohol:

- A new excise duty is to be introduced on vapes and e-cigarettes from the middle of next year, while the price of a packet of cigarettes will once again rise.

- Excise duty on a pack of 20 cigarettes to increase by €1, bringing the price in the most popular price category to €18.05

- Pro-rata increase on other tobacco products

- Domestic tax on e-cigarettes to apply to all e-liquids at rate of 50 cent per ml of e-liquid

- Typical disposable vape contains 2ml of e-liquid, meaning tax will bring price to €9.23 including VAT

- No increase in excise duties on alcohol

Housing and renters:

A raft of measures in relation to housing were announced by Mr Chambers, who said he wanted to give certainty to future homebuyers and the market. For renters, he said he wanted to recognise the costof-living pressures currently being faced.

The rent tax credit offered to tenants will rise from €750 to €1,000, and to €2,000 for a jointly assessed couple

An additional €1.25bn will be made available to the Land Development Agency, bringing the total amount of funding for the LDA to €6.25bn

Inagh native Garvey stated, “I think it is really great news that the retrofit scheme low-income households will have a budget of €240m or ten times higher than it was in 2020. This means that more funding than has ever will be available to make homes warmer, healthier, more comfortable and less expensive to heat. We have also got a payment of €4,000 for small businesses based on their rateable valuation and I was delighted to get this across the line. We may be a small party but we have had a big impact on Budget 2025”.

Clare TD, Violet-Anne Wynne (IND) said the Budget failed to acknowledge the extent of the health crisis in Ireland. “This government is, yet again, more concerned about the press potential of promises than acknowledging the desperate needs on the ground. We have been seeing this the whole way along as we witness the children’s hospital balloon out of control, as the recruitment embargo became a ceiling which still has the fundamental effect of preventing recruitment – anything for good press,

and curse the people calling them out for it”.

She said, “I am disappointed in what this Budget promises for health. We have seen so many in the Chamber finally admit the Mid-West are getting left behind in terms of healthcare, but so little commitment to remedying that. I was truly hoping for some measure to ringfence funding for a Model 3 Hospital but again, this government was more concerned with soundbites than meaningful action”.

General Election candidate, Leonora Carey (FG) believed the Budget showed that Fine Gael valued the role family carers “Fine Gael is supporting carers, foster parents, and those with disabilities by increasing allowances, support grants and lump sum payments. Carers will receive a significant package including an increase in the carer support grant to €2000”.

She added, “We are also supporting people with disabilities, by increasing the domiciliary care allowance (DCA) for children with disabilities by €20. This will help support carers for children with a severe disability. Minister Humphreys has spearheaded major package for people with disabilities with a €400 cost of living lump sum payment for people getting disability allowance, invalidity pension and blind pension to be paid in November 2024”. Budget 2025 “does nothing to alleviate the frustrations of parents whose kids have special needs, the hospitality sector that is collapsing across the country

- Help to Buy scheme will be extended until the end of 2029

- Properties worth over €1.5m to pay 6% stamp duty

- Existing 1% stamp duty to apply to values up to €1m and 2% above €1m

- Relief for pre-letting expenses for landlords extended for three years until the end of 2027 to help vacant property owners bring accommodation into the rental system

- Vacant homes tax increased from five to seven times the property’s existing base Local Property Tax rate

Children:

- Double payments of child benefit in November and December

- Double payment of the foster

and the farming sector where massive increases in the cost of doing business have not been realistically addressed,” said Eddie Punch (II).

According to the Cratloe man who is also contesting the General Election, “The problem is that this government has presided over massive squandering of taxpayers’ money and ignored the need for value for money. The health sector is getting a further massive increase in funding to €25 billion. But there is a disgraceful

failure to provide ontime assessments for autism and early intervention therapies for special needs kids. This is cruel and unacceptable because it is well understood that early intervention therapies (speech and language, occupational etc) are life transforming. Delays of years in delivering these will impact children for the rest of their lives. Meanwhile, the HSE still leaves those in

care allowance

- €400 lump sum payment for working family payment recipients

- €100 lump sum payment per child to recipients of qualified child increase payments

- National childcare scheme funding to rise by 44%, resulting in reduction of fulltime childcare costs by €1,100

- New ‘baby boost’ one-off payment of €420 for each newborn child from 1 January

-Free public transport to be extended to children aged five to eight

Education:

- Free schoolbooks initiative extended to transition and senior cycle pupils

- Funding to continue for the school transport fee reduction and State exam fee waiver

- Continued reduction of student contribution fee by €1,000

- Once-off reduction of 33% in contribution fee for apprentices in higher education

- Post-graduate tuition fee contribution increase of €1,000 for student grant recipients

Income Tax:

- The Universal Social Charge rate will see a second consecutive reduction, while Minister Chambers also announced increases to the main tax credits.

- The USC will be cut from 4% to 3% on incomes of €25,000 to

Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

l Senator Róisín Garvey

need of scoliosis operations in agony. The failure to listen to the hospitality sector is baffling in relation to the 9% VAT rate ask. We have seen some 700 catering outlets closed in Ireland in the last year and Clare is badly affected. Tourism matters to Clare but it isn’t just about tourism – it is central to the social fabric of towns and villages across the county and I fear that this decision will lead to more and more closures of pubs, restaurants and cafes in Clare.

“While I welcome the increased rates for farming schemes like the beef and sheep welfare schemes, the reality is that the farming sector has never been more despondent. The reality is that payments of €25/ ewe come nowhere near addressing the costs of inputs like diesel, feed and fertiliser and general farm hardware. We can’t ignore the fact that increases in carbon tax are driving increased costs, directly for farm operations like silage cutting and indirectly on

€70,000, the second consecutive reduction to the USC rate

- The national minimum wage will increase by 80 cent to €13.50 per hour from 1 January 2025

- Entry threshold to 3% rate increased by €1,622 to €27,382

- The main tax credits - the Personal, Employee and Earned Income Credits

- will increase by €125

- The Standard Rate Cut Off Point will increase by €2,000 to €44,000, with proportionate increases for married couples and civil partners

- Inheritance tax will increase for all thresholds - Group A up from €335,000 to €400,000, Group B up to €40,000 and Group C up to €20,000

- Exemption from Income Tax, Cap-

all deliveries to and from the farm,” he added.

ital Gains Tax and Capital Acquisions

Tax on payments made to women impacted by CervicalCheck failures

Carers:

Minister Chambers told the Dáil that carers play a fundamental role in Irish society, saying the Government is committed to supporting individuals and families with caring responsibilities.

Home carer tax credit and single person child carer credit to increase by €150

Incapacitated child tax credit to increase by €300

Dependent relative tax credit to rise by €60

For a full breakdown, visit www.clareecho.ie.

‘Wind Farms Threaten East Clare with Noise Nuisance’

In a landmark March 2024 ruling, the Irish High Court confirmed that wind farms cause significant noise pollution, negatively impacting nearby residents. Despite this, developers have lodged planning permission for 66 of the tallest wind turbines ever seen in Ireland—each towering over 180 meters, taller than Dublin’s Spire and the Poolbeg Chimneys—the latest destined for the Knockshanvo-Broadford area in East Clare. These industrial giants pose a direct threat to the peace and well-being of rural communities, disregarding Clare County Council’s consistent objections to inappropriate wind farm developments.

High Court Rules: Noise Nuisance Is Real

The recent High Court ruling by Ms. Justice Emily Egan is a clear warning. She found that two wind turbines at Ballyduff

Windfarm in Wexford created an “unreasonable interference” with the daily lives of residents, causing sustained noise that led to severe annoyance. If two turbines can disrupt lives to this extent, imagine the impact of 66 turbines spread across a compact area in East Clare. The noise pollution from this development will be constant, subjecting families to an incessant hum, making peaceful living in the countryside a thing of the past.

Shadow Flicker: A Hidden Health Hazard It’s not just noise. Shadow flicker—caused when sunlight is interrupted by the rotating blades—poses serious health risks. In 2020, the Irish High Court heard of Cork siblings who received a settlement after suffering illnesses linked to wind farms, including sleep disturbances, headaches, and even

nosebleeds. The turbines planned for Knockshanvo-Broadford are even larger and closer to homes, likely leading to similar consequences for local residents. The potential for health issues cannot be underestimated.

Have Your Say Before It’s Too Late

East Clare’s future is in the balance. You can help protect our communities from the noise and disruption these turbines will cause. Attend the public consultation meeting at Broadford Community Hall on Saturday, October 12th, from 12pm to 6pm. Make your views known and lodge your objections before the deadline on October 31st, 2024 An Bord Pleanála Case Reference PA03.320705. This is our chance to stop East Clare from becoming an industrial wind park.

Kilshanny road ‘effectively collapsed’ as calls on forestry companies to step up

A

by Páraic McMahon news@clareecho.ie

KILSHANNY ROAD has been “destroyed” by trucks clearing forestry in North Clare, a county councillor has claimed.

Reinstatement works were requested along the L-5104 in Carrowmanagh, Kilshanny by Cllr Shane Talty (FF) at a sitting of the West Clare Municipal District. He flagged, “The road has been badly damaged from timber trucks clearing local forestry” and argued for its inclusion in the 2025 Schedule of Municipal District Works.

Senior executive engineer in the West Clare MD, Tony Neville stated, “repair and maintenance works to the worst sections along the L-5104 will commence as soon as possible and will continue for the duration of the felling/haulage con-

tract. Once we determine this completion date, the road will be included in the following years Roadworks Programme”.

Speaking at the West Clare MD meeting, Cllr Talty remarked that the road was “destroyed by a third level party”. He commented, “there are vast areas of forestry coming to maturity thirty years after they were planted, it seems strange that there isn’t some condition to the clearing licences for Coillte or private operators, a way of recouping the costs for restructuring the roads. The road here has effectively collapsed”. He added, “These companies should have more to pay than their road tax”.

“This reminds me of the horse who ate the grass,” remarked Cllr Joe Killeen (FF). “It is something we need to look at it, if the road is damaged then we need to look at it”.

lTOPIC: Cllr Shane Talty

Seconding the proposal, Cllr Bill Slattery (FG) recalled, “Back in 2017 they were going to get funding for repairs of

these roads, there was some agreement in place going back that they would pay for some maintenance”.

Neville said he was not aware of such an agreement. “It is a public road, they are entitled to be on, I stand open to correction but I don’t think there is an agreement”.

Acting Director of Service, John O’Malley told the meeting, “Cllr Slattery is touching on something which we’ve been dealing with because there are roads getting damaged”. He advised that they have been liaising with personnel in the Department of Agriculture and Forestry, “it’s been difficult”. He continued, “We’ve been working, we’ve had some success but it is tricky, we’re trying to get Dept to enter agreement to get it more streamlined”. O’Malley concluded, “It is a work in progress, we have to keep at it”.

Winter round of Old Kilfarboy talks to resume

ON Tuesday, October 8, the Old Kilfarboy Society’s winter round of monthly talks will resume at the Malbay at 8pm.

Dr Peter E. Childs, retired from the University of Limerick, will deliver a talk on The Seaweed, Kelp and Iodine Industry in Ireland especially in Co. Clare. All are welcome.

This is the society’s 25th year in existence. It began following a talk by Michael McMahon, Clare’s local historian in June 1999.

Kate Haran, one of the original working party volunteers, has re-joined the committee and recently guided a successful outing around the local White Strand. Since 1999 the Old Kilfarboy Society has been providing Winter Talks and Summer Walks and aims to promote an interest in archaeology, history, folklore and Irish traditional arts in the area.

On the 12th November 2024, Michael Houlihan will talk on Samhain/Halloween and on the 10th December, Ben Taylor’s topic is: Photographing out of DarknessThe Making of the Book on Garrett Barry, the Blind Piper of Inagh.

Tulla’s Kitty kicks off new series of Clare Oral History Podcast

TULLA woman, Kitty Leyden features as the first guest in a new series of the Clare Oral History Podcast which will be released this Friday.

Eighty eight year old Kitty, a native of Cree is a wellknown and much beloved figure there and in her adopted home of Tulla. Her stories range from her fun-filled childhood to talking parrots, and from the cruelty of educators to how her parents’ match was made. Listeners will find out what the “plucking of the gander” is, what to stuff a pigs bladder football with, and what the púca did to haws after Hallowe’en.

Kitty’s episode was recorded live with an audience for Heritage Week.

Produced by Feakle woman Paula Carroll, with sound su-

pervision by Darragh Purcell, The Clare Oral History Podcast showcases the oral histories of Clare people recorded over the last 15 years in the county.

This year’s series will focus on some of the finest storytellers and carriers of traditional knowledge in the Cuimhneamh an Chláir archive. It will give Clare people a chance listen to evocations of times past in the county.

In future episodes we will hear evocations of the historic streetscapes of Clare towns, as well as stories of traditional farming and rural life, stories of children’s lives, of emigration and of the experiences of Clare women.

“Podcasting is the perfect way to share the treasures that are in the Cuimhneamh an Chláir archive” said project manager, Paula Carroll. “Our interviews are audio interviews, they are for lis-

tening to, and podcasting is the supreme way to listen to stories these days. It’s a very powerful way to share our archive, because not everyone can come to our public events, or has the time to trawl through full interviews and transcripts of recordings. With the podcast you can choose when you listen, you can listen while doing other things, and you hear stories curated for you on experiences that are of interest to you”.

Series two of the Clare Oral History Podcast launches this Friday with episodes to be published every second Friday from October to December. Earlier series of the podcast can also be found on Apple Podcasts or Spotify by searching The Clare Oral History Podcast on any platform. The Clare Oral History Podcast is funded by The Ireland Funds Heart of the Community Fund.

by Páraic McMahon

lGUEST: Kitty Leyden

Photo by Anthony O’Connor North Clare

Sexton’s have the best selection of fresh fish in Co. Clare

Doonbeg 0659055592

Fri 9 am - 2pm Sat 9 am - 2pm

Turnpike Rd. Ennis

065 6843679

Mon - Sat 9 am - 6.30pm

@cs shdoonbeg

Design drafted for Doughmore car park extension

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

DOUGHMORE BEACH has become “a victim of its own success” with designs now completed for an overflow section.

Stretching over 4.5km, Doughmore Beach is one of the most popular beaches in the county for walkers. The Doonbeg beach is also a Wild Atlantic Way Discovery point and is adjacent to the five star Trump Doonbeg hotel.

Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) in a proposal before the West Clare Municipal District asked that a survey and costings on the proposed extension to the car park at Doughmore Beach be provided.

Alan Kennelly, senior executive engineer in the West Clare MD confirmed that they have completed some preliminary surveys and design for an extension to an overflow section of the car park. “The car park is located close to the Carrowmore Dunes Special Area of Conservation and environmental screening is being progressed”.

Speaking at the meeting, Cllr McInerney remarked, “Doughmore in some ways is a

Judge very concerned for future partners of man who headbutted woman for refusing sex

by Gordon Deegan

A JUDGE has told a man who punched and head-butted his then partner after she refused to have sex him on different dates that he is very con cerned for the man’s future partners.

At Kilrush District Court, Judge Alec Gabbett told the man that the way he dealt with his emotions in the past was to assault his then partner and mother of their children.

Judge Gabbett told that the man that he must com plete a course provided by MOVE (Men Overcoming Violence).

In the case, Judge Gabbett found the man guilty of three assaults in April against his now ex-part ner and three breaches of a Safety Order she had obtained against him and adjourned the case for a Probation Report.

The couple have a number of children together and in evidence the woman told the court, “I do know that most of the arguments in the house were esca lated by him because I was refusing to have sex a lot towards the end of the relationship”.

She said the arguments escalated and “it was mostly around sex and me refusing to have sex”.

The woman told the court “violence escalated and it was all down to the fact that I couldn’t bear to have him near me anymore”.

The woman alleged that in September 2022 in two incidents, the man punched her in the back and head butted her after she refused to have sex.

The couple were not married and now live apart and in evidence the man denied ever striking the woman. He said, “I love the girl - we have children together”.

The man in his late thirties and with no previous convictions said, “I never hit the girl. I never hit a man before. I socialised in Ennis for twenty years and I was never in trouble”.

He added, “I never hit that girl, or pulled her hair or

He said that for the assaults “a custodial is appropriate”. He said, “This woman was badly assaulted”.

He said that complying with the Probation Service and completing the MOVE course “is a lifeboat” for the man’s future.

Solicitor, Patrick Moylan for the man said that the MOVE course takes place in Limerick.

In reply, Judge Gabbett said, “How bad - there is another way for your client to go to Limerick”.

Judge Gabbett adjourned the case to monitor the man’s progress with MOVE and for his ex-partner to provide a victim impact statement to court.

terms of when the project will start.

“In relation to the upgrade in Kilmihil we were told that there are environmental issues around discharges into the Doonbeg River which is home to protected Pearl Water Mussels. However we were told that the upgrade is “high priority” for Uisce Éireann,” Councillor McInerney said.

Furthermore the meeting heard that water supplies in Ennis, the old West Clare supply and at Doolough were on the “at risk” list from the Environmental Protection Agency.

Meanwhile the meeting also heard that the Kildysart Coolmeen Water Scheme has been “identified and is scheduled for upgrading.”

“I am currently seeking a specific timeline on this scheme as it is particularly significant given that it services 900 houses,” Cllr McInerney said.

Sexton’s have the best selection of fresh fish in Co. Clare

Doonbeg 0659055592

Fri 9 am - 2pm Sat 9 am - 2pm

Turnpike Rd. Ennis

065 6843679

Mon - Sat 9 am - 6.30pm

@cs shdoonbeg

CS Fish land big catch with Flemings Seafood acquisition

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

CLARE fish suppliers CS Fish have announced the acquisition of Fleming Seafoods, an Irish prawn production company based in Connemara, County Galway.

CS Fish is set to expand its operation in Doonbeg, where around 40 people are already employed, following the takeover of the Rossaveal business which specialises in Irish prawn production.

CS Fish specialises in catching, sourcing and delivering fish of the highest quality to restaurants, bistros and fishmongers in Clare, Limerick and further afiield. The move to take over Fleming Seafood signifies a leap into the Dublin retail market, where the much sought-after Irish prawns are extremely popular.

Prawns from Flemings Seafood are hand peeled from fresh and then frozen, retaining their rich pink colour and excellent quality, a practice which will now continue at the family-run Doonbeg business, headed up by Cathal Sexton.

After 25 years in the prawn peeling business, Gay and Freda Fleming decided to retire and hand over the business to Cathal, with whom they developed a strong working relationship with in recent years. Sexton’s have a huge fishing tradition having set up a wholesale company, retail fish shops and a very successful crab picking business in 2011.

Speaking at the solar-powered CS Fish production facility in Doonbeg, Cathal told The Clare Echo, “It is really a privilege that Gay and Freda have put their trust in me to move forward the business. I personally have struck up a really strong relationship with the Flemings over the years and it’s a privilege to take forward such an amazing niche product.”

CS Fish plans to build on Flemings Seafood’s presence in the Irish retail market with their own, locally-sourced crab offering.

CS Fish has for over a decade sourced fresh fish, including crab and lobster, from boats in Carrigaholt, Quilty, Liscannor, Ballyvaughan, New Quay along with locations in Galway, Kerry and Cork. Within one to two days, fresh fish is being enjoyed at restaurants across the Midwest, along with fishmongers including CS Fish’s

own shops in Ennis and Doonbeg.

CS Fish is a family-run business with Cathal joined by his loyal team. Cathal is grateful for the opportunity to bring jobs to West Clare and attract

people to live in Doonbeg.

CS Fish will be expanding its team due to its recent expansion. If you are interested in a new career opportunity in Doonbeg, email csfishltd@gmail.com.

Begley brings laughs to Ennis

AWARD-WINNING come-

dian Seán Begley is bringing his acclaimed new show 'FAUX PA' to glór, Ennis this Saturday, October 5.

Seán is the recent winner of The Dublin Story Slam and has become a regular on the Irish comedy scene after receiving the Best New Act award at Bray Comedy fest 2018 and sub sequently being shortlisted for RTE's Stand Up and Be Funny in 2019.

Speaking ahead of his tour, Seán gave some insight into what audi ences can expect from ‘FAUX PA’.

"In essence, this new show catalogues several hilariously embarrassing misunderstandings, interspersed with an abundance of

one-liners, memes, hand drawn cartoons and a little bit of life philosophy thrown in for good measure" reveals Seán.

"All performances in the tour to

action and overwhelmingly positive feedback, it has something for everyone"

Seán has been described by Today FM's Dave Moore as "a great man for a joke", while Independent.ie labelled his show as “A huge hit...an amazing evening’s entertainment" with Dublin's Comedy Crunch referring to him as “a great up and coming Irish comic and a seriously prolific joke

Free event for over 60s at Arc Cinema

THE Arc Cinema, Parnell Street, is delighted to announce a free ‘Silver Screen’ event on Friday, October 4, showcasing the hit film It Ends With Us to celebrate the launch of its Autumn-Winter Silver Screen programme.

This special screening is exclusively for guests aged 60 and over, offering a unique opportunity to enjoy the magic of cinema in a relaxed and social atmosphere.

The Silver Screen programme is a dedicated weekly event for over-60s, where tickets are priced at just €7 and include complimentary tea, coffee, and biscuits. Screenings take place every week, offering older movie lovers the chance to catch the latest films, enjoy a friendly cup of tea, and connect with others in the community.

Spaces are limited for this free event on October 4, so guests are encouraged to book early at www.ArcCinema.ie to avoid disappointment.

“Our Silver Screen events are all about providing a fun and affordable way for older people to enjoy a great film and socialise with others,” said Cathal O’Sullivam, General Manager at The Arc Cinema. For more information about the Silver Screen programme or to book tickets, visit Ennis.ArcCinema. ie/WhatsOn/SilverScreen.

The evening will also feature support from rising comedy star, the award-winO Toole.

Susan O’Neill to play in glór after chart-topping release

LOCAL fans are in for a treat as Susan O’Neill, one of Ireland’s most compelling singer-songwriters, will be performing at Glór in Ennis, Co. Clare, on October 11th.

This gig comes hot on the heels of the release of her much-anticipated album Now in a Minute, which has made a stunning debut, soaring to number 1 on the Independent Album Chart and number 4 on the Official Album Chart.

Now in a Minute has been hailed by critics, with Hot Press awarding it a glowing 9/10 rating and calling it “the work of an artist at the top of her game.” The album showcases O’Neill’s signature dark indie-folk sound, with songs that are deeply personal yet universally relatable, touching on themes of love, ambition, and the modern female experience.

Tickets are now available for the show at glór on October 5

The album’s reception further solidifies O’Neill’s position as a rising star in Ireland’s music scene. The Irish Timescommends her ability to convey a wide range of emotions through her powerful, soulful voice, calling Now in a Minute a “seriously impressive” second solo effort.

Lecture series at Clare Museum

THE new season of Clare Museum’s Lecture Series will begin on Wednesday, October 9 at 7.30pm, with a talk entitled ‘Gleninsheen and other gorgets - understanding goldwork in Late Bronze Age Ireland’.

Mary Cahill, an archaeologist and former Keeper of Irish Antiquities at the National Museum of Ireland, will visit Clare Museum, Ennis, to discuss the gold gorget found at Gleninsheen in the Burren, and to tell us more about other gorgets and the goldwork methods used to make them. Mary specialises in research on prehistoric gold in Ireland and Europe and has published and lectured on this subject for many years.

Clare Museum’s lecture series runs from October through to May and, this season, talks will take place on the second Wednesday of each month, at 7.30pm. Featuring a different speaker each month, the talks will include

Notes

ENNIS INFORMATION CAFÉ

topics such as hair hurling balls, the Alitalia disaster at Shannon Airport, the archaeology of Skellig Michael, the story of ancient foods through the study of archaeo-botany, the archaeology of caves in the Burren, and much more.

John Rattigan, Curator at Clare Museum, said, “We are very excited to resume our lecture series here at the Museum and delighted to be hosting so many fascinating talks on the archaeology, history and folklore of our own county and beyond. The lecture series is part of a wider programme of events that will help us evolve as an educational resource for everybody in Clare.”

Mary Cahill’s talk on October 9 begins at 7.30pm and admission is free. However, due to limited space, those attending are asked to book a seat in advance by emailing claremuseum@clarecoco.ie. Telephone bookings will not be accepted.

The Clare Branch of the Alzheimer Society are delighted to have our Ennis Information Cafe continuing on the third Wednesday of each Month, in our Ennis Centre, Cuan An Chlair, Cahercalla, from 11.30-13.30. Guest speaker on the 16th of October is our Ennis Community Garda, speaking about Keeping Safe at Home and Personal Safety during the Winter Months. Join us for tea and a chat. For more information contact Linda Murphy 0879152151, e-mail : linda.murphy@alzheimer.ie

O’Neill’s upcoming performance in Glór will give audiences a chance to experience her atmospheric alt-folk sound live, in what promises to be an unforgettable evening of music. With collaborations from acclaimed musicians and producers on her album, including Mick Flannery, fans can expect a rich and emotive setlist. Tickets are available at https://susanoneill.ie.

Ennis features at Irish Open

ENNIS Golf Club was delighted to be part of the Failte Ireland Tent at the recent Amgen Irish Open. The theme of the event was Discover Ireland-Discover Northern Ireland where club member Patrick Rutherford was able to promote Ennis and Ennis Golf club as an ideal base for exploring the wonderful attraction of the Mid West Region.

Pat was delighted to promote Ennis as an ideal base for exploring the magnificent coastline scenery of Clare, along with the magnificent championship golf courses at Lahinch and Doonbeg. However, Patrick’s main focus was to convince golfers at the Amgen Irish Open that any visit to the Mid-West must include a round of golf at Ennis Golf Club and a night enjoying the traditional music, pubs and restaurants which Ennis and its surrounds has to offer.

l Susan O’Neill Photo by Susie Conroy

Start planning ahead this season

AS October continues to show us her beauty and amazing fall blooms there are still things to do around the garden and lots to plan for One of the many autumn tasks is to take cuttings to propagate new plants. This method can be a great way to expand your garden by cloning your favourite perennials, shrubs and herbs.

Some of the best plants for autumn cutting are; herbaceous perennials; like lavender, mint, or rosemary,, semi hard wood shrubs:

including hydrangeas camellias, and roses. Deciduous shrubs: Forsythia, viburnum or dogwood and evergreens: like boxwood or holly are also some excellent choices.

There are two main cutting methods. Semi hard wood cutting is taken from the current season’s growth, which has partially matured. This stage of growth is perfect in autumn because the wood is firm but still pliable. Root cuttings can be taken from plants that are dormant in

autumn and winter.

Autmn is also when we start to chat about the upcoming bareroot season. This the time of year where plants are dormant and are sold and planted without soil around the roots. This is a less expensive way to plant some new hedging and trees. Some of the most common variety of hedging available are laurel, beech, griselinia, hawthorn, privet and box hedging. These a usually become available in garden centre when the weather starts

to get cooler at the end of October and are usually available till end of March.

So, if you were need to cover a boundary, now is the time to consider what hedge type you like best.

“October is a symphony of permanence and change, a startling dance between the crisp bite of autumn air and the warm glow of golden leaves.”

Halloween Spiced Pumpkin and Coconut Soup

INGREDIENTS

n50grams butter

n1 medium white onion diced

n50grams fresh ginger, finely chopped

nOne pint of vegetable stock

nOne small pumpkin, peeled, seeded and cut into cubes

nOne teaspoon of ground cinnamon

nOne teaspoon of ground nutmeg

nOne can of coconut milk

nOne mild red chilli, chopped

nTwo cloves of garlic, chopped

nOne tablespoon of red thai curry paste

nA few sprigs of coriander, optional

nGrounded sea salt and milled black pepper

METHOD

Step 1

In a large saucepan, heat butter over medium heat. Add onions, chilli, garlic, ginger and dry spices until sweated, but not coloured Add in pumpkin, and sweat it off a little, stirring continuously before adding vegetable stock and coconut milk. Reduce heat and simmer for twenty minutes

Step 2

Puree your soup, using a stick blender or jug blender

Season with salt and pepper.

Option: drizzle with coconut cream or creme fraiche, garnish with

South Galway farmer convicted of assaulting Minister in ‘cow dung’ case

by Gordon Deegan news@clareecho.ie

A judge has convicted a south Galway farmer of assaulting Junior Government Minister, Anne Rabbitte (FF) when throwing a sealed bag of cow dung towards her at a public meeting.

At Ennis District Court today, Judge Alec Gabbett found Joseph Baldwin guilty of the assault of Minister Rabbitte at a public meeting in Gort on January 4th 2023 and causing a breach of the peace at the same meeting.

Speaking to reporters outside Ennis court house after the conclusion of the case, Minister Rabbitte said: “Being a politician, one expects the rough and tumble of debate at all times, and what we have seen today is that the line was crossed (that night) and the judge acknowledged that the line was crossed and I am glad that this has been brought to a conclusion and this is the end of it as far as I am concerned.”

Judge Gabbett has adjourned sentencing of Mr Baldwin to December to allow him engage with Probation Services to allow a report be completed on him.

In the case, Mr Baldwin (39) of Ballyaneen, Gort had denied assaulting Anne Rabbitte on January 4th 2023 at the public meeting concerning a planned biogas plant

at O’Sullivan’s hotel in Gort, contrary to Section 2 of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act.

In evidence last month, Minister Rabbitte wept in the witness box as she recalled the incident.

She said that before Mr Baldwin threw the bag towards her he said to her “’I am not forgetting about you, there is one for you Rabbitte’ and then he flung a bag as well.”

After the bag fell on the ground beside her, Minister Rabbitte said: “I didn’t know if the two legs were going to go from under me.”

She said: “Someone picked it up and said that it was a bag of shit.”

Minister Rabbitte said: “I wanted to scream my head off because no one said that what was happening was wrong.”

Minister Rabbitte said that she distracted herself at the meeting by taking out her phone and sending out a tweet “I can’t believe a bag of sh1t has been thrown at me”.

On going to the local Garda station to have what occurred ‘noted’, Minister Rabbitte said: “It is tough we do what we do but I love it and it is a privilege and I apologise judge to be bawlin’ my way through it, but someone had to speak up.”

In a prepared statement to Gardai read out in court, Mr Baldwin said that he went to the meeting “with no intention to harm anyone”.”

Mr Baldwin - represented by solicitor, Daragh Hassett in the case- said that the first bag fell two to three feet from Deputy Ciaran Cannon (FG) and he threw

the second bag in the direction of Minister Rabbitte and “it brushed off someone else and fell on the floor near her”.

Mr Baldwin said that earlier that

day “I went down to the farmyard and put dry cow dung into ziplock bags. There was no smell or odour off the bags and I made sure that they were secure.”

“They were very light - like a featherweight. I thought all the TDs and councillors would be at the top table where I could leave the bags in front of them.”

On why he decided to bring the bags, he said: ”On the evening in question I said to myself, ‘I have had enough’, something had to be done for them to listen and show them that it was unacceptable for the community to be treated like this.”

He said: “I went to that meeting with no intention to harm anyone.”

“In my own mind, I thought that it might be a way of getting through to two Government TDs that they were clearly not helping or listening to the people of our own community.”

He said: “I am not apologising because I believe that all I was doing was making the views of the community known and I didn’t hurt anybody in the process.”

“I am just a normal, decent person thinking about my community and the people who live in it.”

First affordable homes in Galway in decade at Claregalway

GALWAY’s first affordable homes to be developed since 2013 are nearing completion in Baile Chláir (Claregalway) and are being made available for sale by Galway County Council.

61 affordable housing units are being delivered in the Garraí Na Gaoithe development, which is the first turnkey housing scheme to include affordable housing in County Galway under the Government’s ‘Housing for All’ policy.

17 units, including 2 two-bedroom, 9 three-bedroom and 6 four-bedroom houses, are being delivered in the soon-to-be-completed first phase of the development.

Work on 16 additional homes in the second phase of the development will commence in January and will be delivered in mid-2025 with a further 28 units to be developed in the third phase later next year.

Located on the Lakeview Road, the housing scheme also features a crèche and is located close to local amenities in Baile Chláir.

Cllr Albert Dolan (FF), Cathaoirleach of the County of Galway said, “These new housing units will be welcomed by those

first-time and other eligible buyers who cannot afford to purchase a home on the open market. This first phase of development represents the first affordable homes to be delivered in Galway in 12 years and the Elected Members and I fully support the work of Galway County Council’s Housing Directorate to significantly increase the county’s affordable housing stock over the coming months and years”.

Liam Conneally, Chief Executive of Galway County Council commented, “Garraí Na Gaoithe is in the Galway Metropolitan Area Strategic Plan (MASP) area is situated within a 10km commute to Galway City. Due to the development’s proximity to local services and schools, we are expecting significant interest in the homes that will be welcoming their new owners in January”.

Michael Owens, Director of Services for Housing said the 17 new homes at Garraí na Gaoithe are being made available for sale by Galway County Council under the affordable purchase arrangements under the Affordable Housing Act 2021 and Associated Affordable Housing Regulations.

“Applications will be accepted via an online application portal which will go live on

14th October, 2024 at 10.00am. Applications may be made between October 14th and November 11th, 2024,” he added.

Meanwhile, Mr. Owens has reminded the public that Galway County Council is inviting the public to participate in an online survey as part of its efforts to establish the level of interest and preferred locations in County Galway for affordable homes.

“The survey at www.galway.ie/affordablesurvey is specifically aimed at people who feel they may be eligible to acquire or rent an affordable home from the Local Authority. The feedback gathered from the 5-minute survey will inform our delivery of Affordable Housing in the county. The information we are looking for includes the numbers of people/households interested in affordable housing, family size, the type of housing/ accommodation required, house prices that people might be able to afford, and preferred locations”.

An information evening on the Garraí Na Gaoithe development will take place in the Claregalway Hotel on Thursday October 3rd at 7:00pm.

lDUNGED: Minister Anne Rabbitte (FF)

New generation of family customer service beckons at Pat Smyth’s

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

“IT’S AN honour and privilege when someone walks through my door, and you try and do the best you can for them. That’s my general philosiphy.”

These are the wise words of Pat Smyth, owner of Pat Smyth Ladies & Gents Fashions in Gort.

Having worked behind the counter in men’s fashions for half a century, Pat knows a thing or two about the industry.

Today, along with his wife and business partner Mary, they are delighted to be passing on their knowledge and experience to the next generation of Smyths, their daughter Stephanie and son Patrick.

Mary founded the ladies fashion department in 2000, and has grown a steady customer base over the years. Mary’s keen eye for style and quality, along with her team, Helen Smith and Stephanie, are to be credited with the success of the ladies department.

Stephanie (33) and Patrick (30) along with their older sister Audrey, grew up helping out at weekends and holidays in the family business, which was established in 1996.

Having forged their own career paths, the siblings were drawn back to their roots in recent years and have since become fully integrated in Pat Smyth Fashions.

“We’re very fortunate, it would appear, that we’re one of the few independents in the country that we have people willing and wanting to do it,” Pat reflects, speaking about his children’s involvement in the business.

“They have their own personalities. Patrick is sharper and smarter and livelier than I am. Patrick is tuning into the young crowd, and even our mature punters are quite pleased with him.

“Stephanie is very well liked with all sections of age, she has a warm personality. The mature people like her, she’s friendly and somewhat like myself, very good with the meet and greet and smiling, most of the time.”

Pat is heading for 68 years old and admits that in his half century in the industry, he has stuck by two golden rules of business.

“I learned two great lessons in life. One was the meet & greet, regardless of the prospect of a sale. The other is to offer dignity and

respect to every customer because it’s an honour and privilege when someone walks through my door.”

The Leitrim Loughrea based family run a small farm however there is a heritage of drapery in the family, Pat’s granduncle having had a tailor shop in Loughrea named Liam Smyth’s, now known as Weavers. The Smyth children are keen to nurture that tradition on Bridge Street in Gort.

Stephanie and Patrick not only admire their parents’ business nouse, but also their foresight, customer service and eye for fashion.

“Mam and dad have such a wealth of knowledge, they have such a loyal customer base from Limerick to Athlone, we’re serving our time and meeting the customers, learning the trade, hopefully with the aim to keep it.

“It would be a shame to waste all of their experi-

ence and knowledge and not pass it onto the next generation when we have such an interest in it. We want to learn and keep the business going,” explains Stephanie, who adds that fellow employee Helen Smith also offers a wealth of knowledge.

Pat Smyth carries a range of styles to suit people of every walk of life and age demographic, from your best three-piece suit to a pair of wellingtons, while in the ladies department they specialise in everything from dresses and knitwear to jeans, coats and underwear. Along with mainstream brands such as Benetti and Walker & Hunt, they carry Irish labels such as Magee, Naya and Cocodoll.

GORT POTENTIAL

All the Smyths beam about Gort and its potential as a shopping destination. Gort is on the cusp of a Square redevelopment, a secondary school extension and the construction of new housing development. Community man Pat notes that it’s a town on a current upward trajectory.

“The overall town of Gort has improved immensely in the last three or four years, everybody has made an effort to tidy up their business both inside the door and outside the door, everybody is working hard to bring new people into the town.”

Patrick adds, “There are beautiful restaurants in Gort, coffee shops, hairdressers, chemists, supermarkets, there’s everything you’d need in Gort that you’d find in Galway without the hassle of parking, traffic. It’s all easily accessible here.”

PEOPLE OF CLARE

Patrick stresses that Dad Pat “loves the community of Gort and the surrounding areas, he forms a real relationship with customers”.

“He has a great grá for Clare people as well, they’ve been very good to us over the years and we have people who come to us all the way from West Clare.”

Pat adds, “Historically, the country people of Clare have been very good to us. It’s not about the pounds, shillings and cents, it’s about the characters you meet and the lovely people you meet. The sincerity of the people of south Galway, Gort, every durisdiction around it is second to none. Their loyalty is something that can’t be taken for granted and we don’t take it for granted.”

lPASSING THE BATON: Pat Smyth, owner of Pat Smyth Fashions with daughter Stephanie and son Patrick; (below left) Stephanie with Helen Smith and (below right) Patrick in the Menswear department

Photos by Tom Micks

Bus Éireann slammed for ‘scandalous’ manner in which school bus system was introduced

BUS ÉIREANN have come under fire for the “scandalous” manner in which a new bus system for secondary schools in Shannon was introduced, writes Páraic McMahon

There was uproar in August at the introduction of a new pilot scheme introduced by the Department of Education and Bus Éireann to replace the traditional house-to-house service for students from Newmarket-on-Fergus and Sixmilebridge attending secondary school in Shannon.

As part of the scheme, secondary school children have been with Leap Cards that they can use twice a day, and they will travel to and from school using the Bus Éireann’s 343 bus service linking Limerick, Shannon and Ennis, and includes a stop at Shannon Airport.

Parents in the locality have described the scheme as “a make it up as you go along project”.

Cllr David Griffin (FF) raised the matter at this month’s sitting of the Shannon Municipal District. He tabled a motion which called on the National Transport

Authority (NTA) “to progress the upgrading of stop infrastructure including timetabling and shelters on the newly amended 343 bus route, most especially at pick up and drop off points for school transport users”.

Acting senior executive officer, Anne Griffin confirmed the motion has been referred to the NTA. Since the introduction of the scheme, councillors have been “firefighting,” Cllr Griffin said while criticising the lack of consultation with parents and school principals.

According to the Newmarket-on-Fergus native, elected representatives have been treated with a lot of disrespect. He said minor tweaks to the service such as a stop at Killulla Cross could have made services “more acceptable and palatable”. He pointed out that 280 young people in Sixmilebridge and another 110 in Newmarket are accessing buses, without proper stops in place or an adequate number of bus shelters.

Representatives from Bus Éireann need to attend the November meeting of the Shannon MD, Cllr John Crowe (FG) said. “The way it

Assessment of parking in all estates

SCOPE for the addition of extra car parking spaces in Cluain Airne is to be examined.

In a proposal before the Shannon Municipal District, Cllr Tony Mulcahy (FG) requested the local authority to “set out a plan to provide four to five extra parking spaces on each roadway through Cluain Airne, Shannon over the next year or two”.

Senior executive engineer in the Shannon MD, Tom Mellett advised the meeting that an assessment of parking had been previously committed to for all estates in Shannon Town. He said Cluain Airne will be included in this assessment.

He stated, “The outcome of that assessment will determine additional space allocation. We have successfully delivered additional spaces in the town in recent years and would intend to continue with that trend where possible”. Any plan needs to cover a period spanning a few more years, Cllr Mulcahy believed. Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) seconded the proposal and also requested a plan on parking while citing issues across Shannon Town.

was handled was scandalous,” he remarked. He was at a loss as to why there was no designated collection point at Mount Ievers.

Established bus stops are no longer in use in certain areas since the bus route was amended, Cllr Don-

na McGettigan (SF) flagged. She said Bus Éireann have yet to notify customers of redundant stops which has left public transport users standing on the roadside waiting for long spells for buses that would not arrive. She pointed

out that not everyone uses a smartphone and as a result some people had no idea that the bus they were waiting for would never arrive.

Surprise was voiced by Cllr McGettigan that there hasn’t been an accident at the Town Hall as she said the school run is a chaotic time by St Patrick’s Comprehensive. She said firefighters in Shannon took a quarter of an hour to access the fire station on one occasion due to the congestion. “There was no public consultation and no plan B. It is absolutely disgraceful that Bus Éireann would put this on parents and children and residents,” she added. She said she was aware of one case where a wheelchair user has found it very difficult to leave their home due to the situation.

Chaotic is the only word to describe the situation around Town Hall, Cllr Tony Mulcahy (FG) commented. “The way that TII have handled it is appalling,” he remarked.

Cathaoirleach of the Shannon MD, Cllr Pat O’Gorman (FF) criticised the failure to consult with secondary school principals in Shannon before the service was adapted.

Shannon Airport can avail of opportunity from Dublin flight cap

SHANNON Airport could accommodate routes from Dublin which exceed the current cap on passenger numbers there. That’s according to Shannon councillor and Sinn Féin general election candidate Donna McGettigan.

Reacting to news that Ryanair plans to cut 14 routes out of Dublin due to the cap, Donna said, “the Government must take action to encourage Ryanair to redirect flights to Shannon. Shannon has enormous scope to take up flights that cannot be accommodated in Dublin Airport due to the current restrictions in place there. This should be seen as an opportunity to re-balance aviation policy. The current reality is that 88% of all flights that leave this state leave from Dublin. This is not in anyone’s interest”.

“Notwithstanding the recent welcome growth in air traffic from Shannon, we still have busloads of travellers every day from the mid-west travelling to Dublin for flights that they should be able to access from Shannon. We also know that many passengers who land in Dublin have the west of Ireland as a final destination. A proactive

sure we have a unified voice in calling for Shannon Airport to be utilised more

than it currently is”.

campaign by government, actively backed by them, to brand Shannon as an alternative destination for airlines should be instituted immediately” Donna said. Concluding, Donna said, “I will be reaching out to my colleagues in the Dáil to en

l Cllr David Griffin

Photo by Joe Buckley

It’s never safe to use a sunbed

SKIN cancer is the most common form of cancer in Ireland. It is largely preventable by protecting our skin from ultraviolet radiation (UV) from the sun and not using sunbeds. Bernadette Mu llins is a Senior Health Promotion & Improvement Officer Cancer Prevention with HSE Mid West. Here, Bernadette outlines some of the reasons why you should never use a sunbed:

Using sunbeds has dangerous consequences. Sunbeds produce UV radiation increasing your risk of developing skin cancer. There is no safe way to use a sunbed. The earlier you start and the more often you use a sunbed, the greater the risk. In fact, people who use sunbeds for the first time before

the age of 35 increase their risk of developing melanoma skin cancer (the most serious form of skin cancer) by 75%. Sunbed use also contributes to premature skin ageing causing age spots, pigmentation, freckles, wrinkles and leathery skin.

18% of people have used a sunbed at some point during their life and current sunbed use is highest among women under 45 years of age (Healthy Ireland, 2022).

Be aware that getting a base tan from sunbeds before going on holidays does not prevent sun damage or sunburn. Sunbed tanning is not safer than sun tanning as sunbeds produce UV rays similar to sunshine, but stronger.

It is against the law to allow people under the age of 18 to use, hire or purchase sunbeds in Ireland. Children’s skin is more easily damaged by sunbeds. Children who use sunbeds are much more likely to get melanoma skin cancer when they are adults.

Remember:

• Embrace your natural skin tone

- tanned skin is damaged skin

• Using sunbeds increases your risk of getting skin cancer. All sunbed users are at risk.

• Never use a sunbed! If you use a sunbed, make the right choice and stop today

Visit www.hse.ie/sunsmart for more information

OCTOBER is ‘quit’ month and Mary Mac Mahon, Tobacco Lead with HSE Quit Mid West, advises anyone who smokes ‘don’t overthink, give quitting a go’.

Quitting is hard but the Quit Mid West team makes it easier, having supported hundreds of smokers since October 2020. Being able to say ‘I’ve quit’ is fantastic and each Stop Smoking Advisor proudly supports the journey from setting a quit plan until 12 months after you quit. Advisors guide you through the HSE stop smoking programme, arrange free nicotine replacement (if no medical card) and check your carbon monoxide level to keep you motivated. Nicotine replacement therapy lessens cravings and doubles your chances of quitting.

Gerard, attended Quit Mid West and says ‘I advise anyone who is trying to quit, to get some help and talk to a member of the quit team. They are so good with advice and don’t judge you, it’s all about having someone to talk to while quitting, that understand you and your cravings as it’s not easy doing it alone’.

Claire, who also quit, says ‘I’ve been smoking since I was 16 and

I am now 50 years old. I’ve tried many times before but failed… when I decided to put the cigarette down, it was hard. I can honestly tell you that the result is all worth the effort. My breathing has improved and my chest infections as well. Good luck and you can do it!’ Some quit on their first attempt and others need practice. If you quit for 28 days, you are are five times more likely to quit for good so call 065 6865841 for free support. There is no perfect time to quit so this Stoptober let’s ‘give it a go’!

Quit supports

• Call Quit Mid West 065 6865841

• Use an online Quit plan

• Text message 50100 or Freephone the Quitline 1800 201 203

• Visit https://www2.hse.ie/living-well/quit-smoking/order-a-quitkit/A free Quit Kit to help you prepare

• Visit https://www2.hse.ie/living-well/quit-smoking/order-a-quitkit/Advice on Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT) and stop smoking medication

• Visit the You Can Quit Facebook page

‘We’d like it to happen quicker’

Clare not plugging in enough electric vehicle charging points

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

CLARE needs to be more plugged in when it comes to installing electric vehicle charging points.

A renewed appeal was made this week by Cllr Gabriel Keating (FG) for the establishment of an electric vehicle charging point at the

square in the village of Carrigaholt. He said a suitable site has already been identified.

He said, “it is a year and a half since I last brought up EV charging points. The volume of traffic coming to the Peninsula is very high, many of them stop off in Carrigaholt, we’re in an era

of electric vehicles. I was told the Council had permission to go ahead and make plans, that was a year and a half ago but I haven’t heard anything since”. Noted for his stylish vehicles down through the years, Cllr Keating told The Clare Echo he is not contemplating purchasing an electric

car himself.

Michael McNamara, acting senior executive engineer in the roads section of Clare County Council outlined that the Department of Transport in July 2022 formed ZEVI (Zero Emissions Vehicles Ireland) as a dedicated office to support and progress the uptake of zero emissions vehicles and delivery of associated charging infrastructure.

“ZEVI subsequently issued instruction to local authorities for the development of strategies for CP (Charge Point) infrastructure delivery within their local authority and in doing so directed local authorities to do so on a regional basis to ensure cross border consistency across local authorities”.

Clare forms part of Re-

for development of the local and regional strategies for local authorities in Region 7, with local contributions from each local authority for their respective jurisdictions. Subsequent to the delivery of a local strategy, funding and delivery models shall be developed for the delivery of charging infrastructure at strategic locations throughout Clare,” McNamara stated.

Speaking at Monday’s meeting of the West Clare Municipal District, Cllr Keating commented, “the reply is telling me what everyone else is doing but we don’t seem to be on the same wavelength”. He continued, “When I see the word shall I say never or ever or whatever, it is time to be moving on and I’d like to see something in place for 2025, it is giving

we’re part of a region which Donegal is leading out on. We might not be happy with the speed and we’d like it to happen quicker, the hope is we’ll see more developments over next twelve months and look at more strategic locations”. He said Chief Executive of Clare County Council, Pat Dowling had been eager for Clare to be chosen as the regional lead.

Receiving a presentation via the strategic policy committee would be worthwhile, Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) suggested.

Fuel stations need to be encouraged to provide charging points, Cllr Michael Shannon (FF) maintained. “We should look countywide to get a programme but to encourage petrol stations that they be incentivised to have fast

gion 7 alongside Galway County Council, Mayo County Council, Sligo County Council and Donegal County Council with the latter acting as the regional lead. “As lead authority, Donegal County Council are presently undertaking the procurement process for the appointment of a consultant

good notice to the local authority”.

Acting Director of Service, John O’Malley pointed out that the response arrived from the roads section of the Council “who are managing the EV section in relation to the delivery of charging points. There is a national process ongoing,

charging points and roll it out. We need to improve the confidence in the drivers. It is a new phenomenon we have to deal with, the more EV stations around Clare, the better, going forward in 2025 on there should be a roll-out in every petrol station that should accommodate them”.

‘No rules that Active Travel is only for cities and larger towns’ says Minister Ryan in response to West & North Clare reps

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

NO RULES are in place to stipulate that only urban areas are eligible for Active Travel funding, the Minister for Transport has said.

Councillors in North and West Clare have been vocal in their criticism of changes to the funding scheme which has put a greater emphasis on projects in towns rather than rural villages.

According to the Minister for Transport, there is no rural/urban divide in the allocation of funds. The €4.5m allocation for Clare in February 2023 saw €1.7m go towards the Tulla Rd scheme in Ennis and €549,287 to Ballycasey in Shannon.

Both Cllr Ian Lynch (IND)

and Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) tabled motions last September seeking Active Travel to be applied on an equal basis to urban and rural areas. Cllr Lynch remarked that West and North Clare was not getting enough to manage successfully and would need to either get its fair share or get a different scheme set up. Active Travel was labelled as “one of the most exciting schemes” ever established by Cllr Garrihy. He outlined, “We were so excited with the scheme – we had the opportunity to do something completely exciting, like the footpaths in Doolin. Active Travel does the smallest but most im-

portant thing, it slows down the traffic and makes it safe outside the school”.

In correspondence issued to the West Clare Municipal District last month, Minister for Transport, Eamon Ryan (GP) stated, “As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall funding and policy decisions in relation to Active Travel. Funding is administered through the National Transport Authority (NTA), who, in partnership with local authorities, have responsibility for the selection and development of specific projects in each local authority area”.

He explained, “it should be noted that the NTA

works with local authorities to identify projects which would benefit from investment through its Active Travel Programme. These projects are usually based in cities, towns both large and small, and rural villages. There are many examples of projects which have received funding around the country outside the larger urban areas”.

Minister Ryan said they are in a phase of “project prioritisation” where areas with the greatest impact are favoured. “There is a large number of projects in the pipeline for delivery around the country in the next few years, and as such, we are moving into a space of proj-

ect prioritisation, whereby funding will be allocated to areas of greatest impact.

The NTA will continue to work with local authorities to identify viable projects across both urban and rural areas which should receive funding in 2025.

“I can assure you that there is no rule in place whereby funding must only be spent in our cities and larger towns,” he said. “Providing viable active travel infrastructure across both rural and urban areas is vital for encouraging modal shift away from private car use where possible, which is a key priority going forward as we try to meet our carbon emission reduction targets,”

he concluded. Cathaoirleach of the West Clare MD, Cllr Rita McInerney (FF) acknowledged the correspondence and noted that it came in response to the disappointment expressed by councillors.

Visitor numbers on rise as Craggaunowen celebrates 50th anniversary

CRAGGAUNOWEN Castle in Kilmurry Co Clare celebrated the close of a successful tourist season last Friday with a 50th anniversary party

There was a 27% increase in visitors to the tourist attraction in 2024. This increase in popularity is attributed to the changes made to the historic site, since last year’s transfer of management of the site to Clare County Council Works completed during 2024 include the replacement of palisade fencing surrounding the ringfort, upgrades to the castles heating and electrics, the installation of a new photographic exhibition in the castle showcasing the creation and development of the site, the launch of a new Folklore Trail, and a refresh of the Brendan Boat exhibition with new Audio Visual, signage and photography. The park’s animation team has been doubled to include a range of artisan craftspeople including the addition of a blacksmith, woodworker, willow weaver and medieval musician.

According to Stephen Hanley, General Manager of Clare Tourism

fencing, pathways and the bridge connecting the site to the crannógs are planned for 2025 along with the installation of a new playground.

“Craggaunowen is an important landmark on the Clare tourism landscape, and it is a key contributor to the local economy,” explained Mr. Hanley. “With the support of the Hunt Museum Trust and the Elected Members of Clare County Council, we are committed to continuing our programme of investment in one of Ireland’s most important and best known archaeological open-air museums. By combining historical immersion, engaging interactions, and a serene natural setting, we aim to make every visit to Craggaunowen a truly unforgettable experience.”

seums Trust aswell as Councillor Alan O’Callaghan, Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council also attedended the celebration.

Pauline Lenihan, Manager of Craggaunowen commented, “The event marking our 50th anniversary was an enjoyable and emotional occasion for everyone who attended, particularly the local community which has played a key role in the development of Craggaunowen. Everyone connected with the attraction is rightly proud of what has been achieved here over the past half a century.”

East, “Throughout the 2000s, Craggaunowen, the once iconic bronze age heritage park was in decline. Its appeal, once captivating domestic and international visitors, was waning and it was apparent significant investment was required in order to save the attraction. Recognising the need for investment, Clare County Council assumed ownership of the site in 2023, and a comprehensive overhaul commenced.”

Further imporvments to the historical site are planned for 2025, including upgrades of the woven huts, crannógs, public carpark,

Members of the local community along side past and present members of staff gathered at Craggaunowen on Friday the 27th of September to close out the 2024 tourits season and celebrate the tourist attractions 50th anniversary.

Patricia Hunt and John Logan, the outgoing Chair of the Hunt Mu-

Ms. Lenihan continued, “As we reach the end of the 2024 season at Craggaunowen, we are excited about future plans to further enhance the visitor experience at the site as such investment will encourage more tourists to come and explore the roots of the people, homesteads, animals and artifacts of our Celtic ancestors of over 1,000 years ago which have touched and shaped how we live today.”

Visit www.craggaunowen.ie for more.

Getting Back in Shape After Childbirth with EMS Training

FOR many new mothers, getting back into shape after giving birth can feel like a daunting task.

Between the sleepless nights, feeding schedules, and the physical toll of pregnancy, it’s understandable that fitness might take a back seat. However, modern fitness technology is offering new moms a helping hand in regaining their pre-pregnancy strength and confidence.

One such innovation is Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) training—a highly effective workout method that is becoming increasingly popular among postnatal women, now available in Ennis.

EMS training uses electrical impulses to stimulate muscles, causing them to contract in a way that mimics natural movement during exercise. By wearing a special suit connected to a device, your body receives low-frequency electrical impulses, which activate deep muscle fibers that might be harder to engage during conventional exercise.

EMS training is very beneficial for new mothers because it allows

for a full-body workout in just 20 minutes. With time being a precious commodity for new moms, this efficiency is one of the reasons EMS is gaining popularity as an ideal post-pregnancy workout.

After giving birth, a woman’s body needs time to heal and recover, particularly in the core, pelvic floor, and lower back. These areas are often weakened during pregnancy, making it challenging to jump back into traditional exercise routines. This is where EMS training can play a pivotal role. EMS allows new mothers to engage these muscles safely without placing excessive strain on the body. The controlled stimulation targets muscle groups at different intensity levels, making it adaptable to various fitness levels and stages of recovery.

One of the primary concerns after childbirth is strengthening the pelvic floor muscles. Weak pelvic floor muscles can lead to incontinence or discomfort, but traditional core exercises might be too intense during the early stages of postnatal recovery. EMS training can gently and effectively strength-

en the pelvic floor without the need for heavy lifting or high-impact movements.

Finding time for self-care and exercise can be one of the biggest challenges for newmothers. EMS offers a practical solution by providing an intense, full-body workout in just 20 minutes. This makes it easier for new moms to squeeze in a session while their baby naps or between feedings.

Another key advantage of EMS for postpartum recovery is its cus-

tomizable nature. EMS sessions can be adjusted to suit the individual’s fitness level and recovery stage.

Whether you’re ready to focus on toning muscles or just beginning to rebuild strength, the intensity of the EMS currents can be tailored to your body’s needs. This flexibility ensures that new mothers can progress at their own pace without risking injury or overexertion.

In addition, EMS is low impact, which is important for women who may still be dealing with joint or

muscle pain after childbirth. Unlike traditional workouts that involve high-impact movements or heavy weights, EMS stimulates muscles without placing stress on the joints. This gentle approach allows new moms to regain strength and fitness without discomfort or injury.

For many women, regaining strength and fitness after childbirth isn’t just about physical appearance—it’s about feeling strong and confident again. EMS training can provide that much-needed boost by helping new mothers feel more in control of their bodies. With regular sessions, new moms can see and feel improvements in muscle tone, posture, and energy levels.

In conclusion, EMS training is proving to be a powerful tool for women looking to get back in shape after giving birth. It offers an efficient, customizable, and gentle approach to postnatal fitness, helping new mothers regain their strength, confidence, and overall well-being. For those looking to reclaim their fitness after pregnancy, EMS might just be the ideal solution.

lPatricia Hunt, Ann Carey, Christopher Carey and Dr Edward Walsh.

Photos by Paul Corey.

Hyperbaric Oxygenation (HBOT) may sound complex, but it’s really about using the power of oxygen to help the body heal. I still find it fascinating how something as simple as breathing in oxygen, under increased pressure, can have such profound effects on health.

In a hyperbaric chamber, oxygen gets absorbed into the bloodstream at a much higher rate than usual, reaching areas that are usually more difficult to access. HBOT can be particularly benenfiacial for our eyes. One thing we often forget is how sensitive our eyes are to oxygen changes. Much like a plant wilting when deprived of water, the eyes can suffer greatly when they don’t get enough oxygen.

One of the major eye conditions hyperbaric oxygen is used for is macular degeneration. The macula is a part of the retina responsible

for central vision. When it starts to deteriorate, it can be like looking through a foggy window, blurring the details of faces, words, and objects. Unfortunately this is general-

ly caused by aging so is something we all need to be conscious of and to manage the condition correctly.

HBOT helps improve blood flow and promote healing, by delivering

Preab-Ghaeltcht/ Pop-up Gaelteacht in The Pipers Inn

Macalla an Chláir

LE MACDARA Ó CONAOLA

The Piper’s Inn will host a Pop-Up Gaeltacht this evening, Thursday, at 8pm. So, whether you’re a cainteoir dúchais (native speaker), líofa (fluent), as cleachtadh (rusty), or only have cúpla focal (a few words), there will be a céad míle fáilte romhat to the comhrá (conversation/chat), spraoi (fun) agus craic!

The fun event is in aisce (free) and all you have to do is bring your grá don teanga (love for the language), or just éist (listen) as the language flows as freely as the River Shannon.

Thursday 3rd October, The Piper’rs Inn, Ogonelloe, free of charge/ Déardaoin, 3ú Deireadh Fómhair, 8pm, Tuath Ó gConaíle, in aisce

AN BHFUIL SCÉAL LE ROINNT AGAIBH ?!

Bígí i dteagmháil linn agus leanaigí ar Facebook agus Twitter muid ag: @macallaanchlair R-phost: macallaanchlair@gmail.com

Imeachtaí/Events:

• LUIMNEACH – AIFREANN GAEILGE, chuile Dé Domhnaigh, 10.30am, Mainistir an

• tSlánaitheora, Sráid San Doiminic, Luimneach

• Clare FM - Cúl-chaint le Domhnall Ó Loingsigh chuile Dé Sathairn, ag 9am ar Clare FM

• CILL INÍNE BAOITHE - Ciorcal Comhrá san XPO, chuile Dé Céadaoin ag 7.30pm

• 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,

extra oxygen to the retina, It’s like cleaning that foggy window to restore some clarity.

Another reason people use HBOT is following chemotherapy or radiation where the eyes have experienced distress and damage. These treatments, while essential for battling cancer, can disrupt the delicate balance of oxygen and blood supply in the eyes, causing discomfort and even vision issues.

HBOT helps the eyes to recover from the stress of these treaments by improving oxygen delivery and reducing inflammation.

For those who might need it (and I hope you never do), it’s useful to know that hyperbaric oxygenation is one of only few effective treatments available in treating Central Retinal Artery Occlusion (CRAO). This is where the blood flow to the retina gets blocked, cutting off oxygen to the

Thought for the week: One Day at a Time

Spreading the word of positivity

RONAN SCULLY

Striving to live life one day at a time, that’s what a lot of people try to do, only to find it very difficult. And why is that? Possibly because so many of us are trying to do too much. We get bogged down with worry and anxious thoughts.

In today’s day and age, I think everyone has some form of anxiety. If not from the worries of the past pandemic, the current cost of living crisis or various cnflicts throughout the world then from how we interact and respond to societal pressures.

So as we start into another week, remember that the anxieties of our lives can steal away the moments of our joy. Don’t ruin today by worrying about yesterday’s problems.

Worry does not empty tomorrow of its sorrows, but it empties today of its peace. A day worrying is more exhausting. than a day of hard work. Nothing wastes more energy than worrying. It’s a total waste of time. It’s useless. The answer is to put God in control of your life. Trust Him.

He is in charge and He

understands. Leave tomorrow to God. Live one day at a time. Don’t open your umbrella until it starts raining and don’t cross bridges until you reach them. Hand over everything to God, yourself, your problems, plans and health, everything.

Surrender and abandon yourself to Him. Surrender your family to Him.

Your future is in God’s hands and in God’s hands you are in safe hands. trust Him and all will be well. Easier said than done. It may take time but trust me it works.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

As your thought for the week, don’t ever forget for even a second how very important and how very special each and every one of us are. Please try to love and pray deeply from your heart always and for the good of everyone. In the end, the goal of real life is love.

The measure of our maturity is our love for God and our love for others. If we fail in our love we have missed what it means to be a truly good person. To anyone who also may be struggling like me at this moment with questions and worry right now, I offer again the simple words of St. Padre Pio: “Pray, hope,

eye. Timing is critical here because the longer the eye goes without oxygen, the more damage occurs, which could lead to permanent vision loss. HBOT helps restore blood flow, giving the eye a better chance to recover and potentially save your sight. It is rare ( approx 2 people per 100,000) but does happen suddenly, so it is so important to know where your closest hyperbaric chamber is for urgent cases like these.

So, whether it’s macular degeneration, post-cancer eye distress, or CRAO, hyperbaric oxygenation provides a critical oxygen boost that can help our eyes heal and recover. Think of it as enhancing your natural repair system to ensure that our vision stays as clear and healthy as possible.

and don’t worry.” I feel Padre Pio’s peacefulness as he listens to my worries now as I pray to him, as he listened to many during his life, and he reassures me daily that all my worries are in God’s hands.

Let me leave you with this prayer I say everyday, “Heavenly Father, When I feel crushed by my own worries, Lift my mind and help me to see the truth. When fear grips me tight and I feel I cannot move, Free my heart and help me to take things one step or one day at a time. When I can’t express the turmoil inside, Calm me with Your quiet words of love. I choose to trust in You, each day, each hour, each moment of my life. I know deep down that I in Your grace, forgiven, restored by Your sacrifice, You have set me free. Oh Lord, thank You for hearing my exhausted prayers when life feels like it’s just too much and I’m desperate for solutions. Help me to hold on to You in faith and stand on the truth of who I know You to be: a good, faithful and loving Father who always has my best in mind. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”

7 ways to keep warm this winter

READY YOUR RADIATORS

Your radiators are the first defence in the battle against the cold. When they’re not working effectively it’ll take longer to heat your home, and won’t emit enough warmth for those toasty evenings in. If you find your radiator has cold patches, doesn’t heat up evenly or makes loud gurgling noises, it’s time to bleed it.

Bleeding your radiator is a quick and easy way to get them working their best again. Simply use a radiator key or a flat-headed screwdriver to loosen the bleed valve, which you’ll find on the top left or right of the radiator.

If you’ve bled your radiator but it’s still not heating up properly it’s best to call a heating expert.

WARM UP WITH A RUG

Did you know that you could be losing heat from right under your feet? Floorboards are a gorgeous feature, but they aren’t the best for retaining warmth, especially if they’re old or have gaps in between. Stone, vinyl or laminate flooring can also get frosty under foot when the winter arrives.

Take the edge off those chilly toes with a new rug from our décor collection, not only will it reduce and cold air creeping in,

it’ll add a cosy feel to your room.

KEEP COSY WITH CURTAINS

Cold air and draughts can come in around windowpanes. If your curtains are past their best, or unlined, investing in a new pair is a great way to block the cold air from coming into your room. And let’s face it, it’s the perfect excuse to give your room a new look!

Remember, the heavier the curtain, the better it’s insulating effect. In general, lined curtains offer greater insulation than nonlined.

If you want to keep your home extra warm, leave your curtains closed when you’re out, and shut them before it gets dark. Keep the curtains open during the day to let the sun warm the room – it’s free too!

SMARTEN UP YOUR HEATING

Make sure your home is cosy and warm when you get in from work, or turn down the heat if you know you’ll be out longer than planned. With a smart thermostat you’ve got complete control wherever you are.

The Google Nest Learning thermostat can learn your schedule and programme itself by noticing when you’re gone. It can

automatically turn down the heat, making it a really efficient way to manage your heating.

LINING YOUR ATTIC

If your attic isn’t properly insulated, you could be losing a lot of heat from the top of your home. Whether you choose rolls of attic insulation or insulated attic boards, these products are designed to minimise the amount of warm air escaping from your attic.

MAKE DRAUGHTS

DISAPPEAR

Heat escapes through cracks and gaps around your home. Add draught excluders to your doors and your letterbox to prevent warmth getting out, as well as cold air getting in.

Brush style draught excluders are fine in

most cases, but if you have wooden or tiled floors, an under-door excluder could work better. Normally these are made of a soft rubber or foam and they are fixed to the base of the door and plug any gaps.

REFLECT THE HEAT

Available as a roll, reflective radiator foil can keep your room cosy and reduce your heating costs by reflecting heat back into the room that would otherwise be lost through the wall. It is particularly effective for radiators on cold outside walls.

WINTER READY

Moloneys Fuels keeping you and your family warm this winter

Special offer this October

MOLONEY Fuels are preparing to warm thousands of Clare homes this winter as they approach a quarter of a century in business.

One of the county’s most popular suppliers, Moloney Fuels are fuel specialists in kiln-dried timber, smokeless coal, ecologs and wood pellets.

With the colder weather beginning to arrive and blustier nights becoming a more common occurance, Moloney Fuels are running a special offer for the month of October on crates of ash/oak and birch (details in the advert below).

Clarecastle native Seán Moloney runs the family business based in Drumbiggle, Ennis, which was originally established by his parents, Dad Andy and late mother Noreen, as a grocery store.

Seán grew the fuel business and notes that in recent years there has been an increased usage in fire stoves in people’s homes.

Moloney Fuels recommends kiln-driend timber, which Seán notes is a cleaner timber for stoves, and high-quality wood pellets which are sourced directly from the mill.

Moloney Fuels also provide smokeless coal which continues to have strong demand, with the family business covering all of County Clare.

Increases to housing adaptation grant limits will

be “a lifeline for families and individuals”

Clare’s Fianna Fail TD, Cathal Crowe, has confirmed that the Minister for Housing Darragh O’Brien intends to increase Housing Adaption grants.

There will be an increase of over 30% to grant limits and the income thresholds by 25% for those applying for support under the Housing Adaptation Grants for Older People and People with a Disability Scheme.

The planned proposed changes follow last weeks publication of the Report on the Review of the Housing Adaptation Grants for Older People and People with a Disability Scheme. In addition to the increase in grant limits in excess of 30% and an increase in income thresholds of 25%, the report also recommends adjusting the burden sharing for local authorities. The funding contribution from local authorities will be reduced from 20% to 15% to 15%.

These changes, which will mean

that more people will qualify for housing adaption grants These amendments are expected to take effect in Q1 next year.

Commenting, on the report

Deputy Crowe said: “Having called for an increase to both the grant limits and the thresholds for some time now I am delighted to see that Minister O’Brien has received Cabinet approval to do just that. Grant limits will increase by €10,000 in some circumstances which will be welcome news to many.

“I am particularly pleased to hear that the means testing arrangements will also be amended so that just the owner/tenant and their spouse will be assessed and that a person’s income ‘in year’ can be taken account of in certain circumstances.

“These grants are a lifeline for many families and individuals. The ESRI projections indicate that the numbers of people aged

over 65 will more than double to 1.3 million people by 2040. As more people live longer lives, they will want to stay healthy and independent, live in their own homes and communities and keep to a minimum their use of in-patient and out-patient hospital services.

“Since taking office, Fianna Fáil in Government has increased the investment in these grants by over 27% from €73m in 2020 to €93m in 2024. It’s appropriate now that we make the grants easier to access and to support as many people as possible to age with dignity in their homes,” Crowe concluded.

Instant Eco Homes making Clare houses more energy efficient

County Clare homeowners are starting to feel the impact of inadequate insulation as we enter the colder months. SEAI estimates that up to 50% of heat can escape through poorly insulated attics and external walls. At Instant Eco Homes, we specialize in retrofit insulation, focusing on attic and cavity wall upgrades that enhance your home’s heat reten tion. With our expertise, we’ve secured SEAI insulation grants of up to €3,250 for hundreds of homes across county Clare, making ener gy efficiency accessible for all.

Our dedication to quality and cus tomer satisfaction distinguishes us in the retrofit insulation industry. We work closely with each homeowner to understand their unique needs and provide tailored solutions that fit every budget. This commitment is reflected in our impressive 5-star Google reviews from our de lighted customers.

Upgrading your insula tion not only boosts com fort but also protects your family’s health by minimizing damp and mold. In a time when sustainability and efficiency are critical, investing in an

upgrade is

that can lead

Recent enhancements to the SEAI grant process have made securing funding easier than ever—potentially covering up to 100% of the costs.

For a free survey and quote, visit us at instantecohomes.ie or call Nick at 083 1521595. Together, we can create a warmer, more energy-efficient future for your home.

on

lTD Cathal Crowe (Fianna Fail)

Be ready for winter driving

IRELAND’S winter weather can be unpredictable, and the icy roads, snow, and rain can make driving a challenging task.

Prioritizing your safety, along with the safety of others on the road, is essential during the colder months.

To help you stay safe during the winter months in Clare, we’ve joined Martin Daly Autos to compile a list of practical road safety tips that emphasise tyre safety and the use of essential safety gear.

Choose the Right Tires:

Invest in quality winter tyres which area designed to provide better traction on slippery roads. Before driving on winter roads, check the tread depth and ensure your tyres are properly inflated. Adequate tyre pressure is crucial for maintaining control on icy or wet surfaces.

Safety Gear:

Keep essential safety gear in your vehicle, including; a high-visibility

vest, warning triangles, and a flashlight. In case of an emergency or breakdown, these items can make you more visible to other drivers and help you stay safe while addressing the situation.

Slow Down and Maintain Distance:

During winter, reduce your speed and increase your following distance. Slower speeds and greater spacing between vehicles can give you more time to react to unexpected situations and prevent ac-

cidents.

Antifreeze and De-Icer:

Stock up on antifreeze and de-icer for your windshield. These products can help prevent ice from forming on your windshield and side mirrors, ensuring clear visibility while driving even on cold winter mornings.

Know Your Brakes:

Familiarise yourself with your vehicle’s braking system. It’s important to know the how sensitive your vehicles brakes. In slippery conditions, take extra care to use gentle breaking rather than slamming on your brakes. Sudden harsh breaking can cause skidding. Consider having your brakes inspected before winter to ensure they’re in good working condition for the cold months ahead.

Emergency Kit:

Carrying a well-equipped winter emergency kit is a good way to be prepared for any unprecidented

accidents. Your emergemncy kit should inculde; warm clothing, blankets, a first-aid kit, non-perishable food, and a fully charged mobile phone. In case you get stuck or stranded, these items will keep you safe and comfortable while waiting for assistance.

Check Your Lights:

In winter, days are shorter, and visibility can be limited. Properly functioning headlights, tail lights, and fog lights are essential for both your safety and the safety of others on the road. Make sure all of your vehicle’s lights are in working order

before winter.

Avoid Sudden Maneuvers:

Winter weather brings with it treacherous road conditions. Maintain tracttion and stability on slippery roads by refraining from making sudden lane changes or sharp turns.

Plan Your Journeys:

Stay informed about weather conditions and road updates. When possible, plan your trips to avoid driving during extreme weather. Delaying your journey or opting for an alternative route can significantly enhance your safety. In the West of Ireland, winter road conditions demand a practical and safety-focused approach. Navigate the roads with confidence by following these road safety tips and making sure your vehicle is fully equipped to tackle the Irish winter.

Visit Martin Daly Autos to check that your tyres are roadworthy. (065) 686 7336

IN PREPARATION for the colder months, now is an ideal time to invest in insulation upgrades and replace fossil fuel heating systems.

According to the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI), by investing in home energy upgrades, homeowners are creating a more comfortable and healthier home.

Over 14,723 homeowners in Clare have already upgraded their homes with help from SEAI’s Government funded grants. SEAI registered One Stop Shops offer homeowners a fully managed solution for a complete home energy upgrade.

With an estimated 50% of Irish homes reaching a BER rating of ‘D’ or lower, Irish homeowners are currently losing out on comfort and savings, according to SEAI..

More and more homeown-

ers are aware of the benefits of home energy upgrades, with attic and wall insulation being a great starting point. These are long-term investments which will significantly improve home comfort and health, as well as reducing energy consumption and lowering energy bills.

For homeowners using fossil fuel heating systems such as oil or gas, they should consider the clean switch to a heat pump system. Heat pumps are highly efficient alternatives to fossil fuel heating systems, creating a warmer and healthier home by maintaining a constant, comfortable temperature throughout the year. Even better, as you are no longer using fossil fuels, you are reducing your carbon footprint and creating a much more energy efficient home for the future.

According to Stephen

Farrell, One Stop Shop Programme Manager with SEAI,

“Since 2009, over 14,723 homeowners in Clare are enjoying a warmer, cosier, more energy efficient home, having already begun their home energy upgrade journey with the support of SEAI. As we head into the winter, now is

Clare Homeowners urged to invest in home energy upgrades

the perfect time for people to upgrade their homes and enjoy a whole new world of comfort and savings.”

Farrell went on to explain the different home energy grant options available from SEAI, “SEAI’s One Stop Shop service is ideal for homeowners who want to

Getting Winter Ready?

carry out a complete home energy upgrade in one go and to achieve a BER rating of B2 or better. This grant option makes it a lot easier for the homeowner, as a SEAI registered One Stop Shop will manage their entire project from start to finish, including the grant application. Another great benefit is that the grant is deducted from the cost of works, so the homeowner is getting the value of the grant upfront which can really help with financing. They will also carry out a Home Energy Assessment which provides a useful technical report on the energy upgrades needed to make your home suitable for a heat pump and to bring it to a B2 BER rating. SEAI offers a stand-alone grant of €350 for this assessment and you are under no obligation to carry out the works. SEAI also offers a range

of individual home energy upgrade grants to suit most budgets and circumstances. This is a great option for homeowners looking to start upgrading their homes over time and giving them more flexibility.”

Whether you choose to carry out a complete home energy upgrade through the One Stop Shop service, or carry out individual energy upgrades over time, both options offer significant Government grants ranging from up to €1,500 for attic insulation, up to €8,000 for external wall insulation and up to €10,500 for a heat pump system.

For further information about SEAI Home Energy Upgrade grants visit https://www.seai.ie/grants/ home-energy-grants/.

Keep warm this winter with fuel from Murphy’s Direct

Nationwide Delivery, Bulk Orders Available, Best price coal in the west of Ireland!

At Murphy’s Direct, we are your trusted source for high-quality solid fuels. Whether you need premium coal, smokeless alternatives like Glo Therm, or kiln-dried logs, we’ve got you covered!

We offer bulk options with nationwide delivery, ensuring you’re well-stocked for the cold months ahead. With unbeatable prices and a range of heat solutions to suit any home or business, staying warm has never been easier.

Why choose Murphy’s Direct? Our competitive pricing, reliable service, and unbeatable selection set us apart. We believe in bringing warmth to your home efficiently and affordably, while also offering eco-conscious products for cleaner burning. Whether you’re preparing for a long winter or simply stocking up, our expert team is here to help you find the best heating solution tailored to your needs.

Save more with our Loyalty Program—earn points every time you shop! For unbeatable prices and convenient delivery, choose Murphy’s Direct.

WINTER READY

Tips for interior painting in the winter

WHEN considering interior painting, many may automatically assume that it’s best done during the spring or summer months.

However, it’s worth noting the advantages of painting during winter. With lower humidity levels, paint tends to dry more efficiently and effectively in colder weather. As a result, winter emerges as an opportune time for both exterior and interior painting projects in homes.

Avoid waiting for the sweltering heat and high humidity of summer months. Instead, revitalize your home with a new coat of paint using these five interior painting tips tailored for the winter season.

1. PREPARATION

When preparing for an interior paint job, it’s critical to take the time to prep your space and materials. Avoid costly mistakes and spend time protecting your surfaces and equipment. Here are just a few painting project preparation tips:

Before painting your house, make sure your surfaces are clean of dirt and dust. We know you’re eager to start painting, but removing these particles with a simple rag or tack cloth can help ensure a smooth surface and keep the floor protection products in place.

After you’ve cleaned your surfaces, take the time to protect the with these products:

Drop cloths will protect furniture and floors.

For hardwood floor protection, we recommend a slip resistant drop. For carpeted surfaces, a heavy duty canvas drop will work just fine.

Surface protection board works well for hard surfaces such as countertops and floors. We recommend Trimaco’s X-Paper or X-Board.

Masking film and masking paper are great for protecting baseboards, windows, doors and cabinets.

Blue painter’s tape will protect trim, baseboards, electric sockets or any other small, detailed space.

To help keep a consistent paint color for the entire duration of your interior painting project, we recommend mixing a few cans of paint in a large 5-gallon bucket. Using a 5-gallon bucket roller tray will keep your waste and mess to a minimum. In addition, straining your paint will help remove any impurities, ensuring a smooth finish.

2. CEILING, WALLS THEN TRIM

Feeling overwhelmed when painting a sizable area is common, especially when unsure of where to begin. Accidental drips, spills, or splatters are almost inevitable,

underscoring the importance of following the right sequence. As a general guideline, it’s advisable to start by painting the ceiling, followed by the walls, and then the trim. If you plan on painting your floors, save that for last!

3. EVEN STROKES

For large spaces and walls, we recommend using a roller. Using an extension pole will also speed up the paint project dramatically.

Completely cover the roller with paint before beginning:

Remove all excess paint to avoid drips

Using the roller to apply paint, follow the same pattern throughout. The most common pattern is in the shape of a “W” or “M”. Without lifting the roller, fill in the un-painted areas.

Once you’ve painted the area completely, carefully pick up the roller so it does not leave a mark. Reapply the paint on your roller, move to another unpainted area and repeat the process.

*We recommend following these steps for both primers and interior paints.

4. KEEP CALM & LET THE PAINT DRY

Once you’ve painted your room, it’s tempting to start applying a second coat of paint. Don’t! Ensure that the initial coat is fully dry before considering additional coats. To facilitate quicker drying, promote airflow by opening windows. Surprisingly, the winter air can enhance drying times. Not all paints are created equal. Different types of paints have different drying times. oil-based paints should dry for at least 24 hours before re-applying. When using latex based paint, you can begin your second coat in just 4-6 hours.

5. CLEAN UP

We know, cleaning up is the least fun part of any job. However, clean up and proper disposal of paint wash out is an extremely important part of the painting process. Latex paint can simply be washed out of brushes with soap and warm water. Dispose wash out in a government approved area that will not seep into groundwater. Alternatively, invest in an environmentally friendly, paint wash out system. Oil paints are a bit more tricky. To remove paint, use a paint thinner or solvent to wash out. Again, dispose of paint washout in a pre-approved area. Improper disposal can harm the environment and can pollute groundwater.

Lastly, store your leftover paint in a safe place for future touch ups! The cold weather can be the perfect time for a fresh coat of paint.

Kelvin Hotels Ltd acquire Temple Gate Hotel from Madden family

DERMOT Kelly and John Gavin, owners of the award-winning Shannon Springs Hotel, are pleased to announce the successful acquisition of the Temple Gate Hotel in Ennis from the Madden family, marking an exciting new chapter for both hotels and the wider hospitality community in County Clare.

The Temple Gate Hotel, a beloved fixture in Ennis, has been owned and operated by the Madden family for several decades, gaining a reputation for its warm hospitality, historic charm, and exceptional service. Under the new ownership of Kelly and Gavin, the hotel will continue to honour its heritage while benefiting from fresh ideas and the experience the pair bring from their success at Shannon Springs Hotel.

John Madden’s vision and dedication were pivotal in transforming the Temple Gate Hotel from its begin-

nings into the thriving business it is today. With a commitment to preserving the site’s historic character while introducing modern comforts, John laid the foundation for its success. Alongside his son Paul Madden, who has been instrumental in the day-to-day operations of the hotel, they have upheld the family’s commitment to exceptional service, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for guests. Together, their leadership has made the Temple Gate Hotel a renowned destination in Ennis, deeply rooted in the local community.

Dermot and John have transformed Shannon Springs Hotel into one of the region’s leading hotels, known for its outstanding service, culinary excellence, and welcoming atmosphere. With their extensive experience in the hospitality industry, the new owners plan to further enhance the guest

experience at Temple Gate Hotel while preserving its unique character.

Immediate focus will be on maintaining the high standards of service with the current management and staff, while exploring opportunities for further development and innovation. It will be business as usual and we look forward to welcoming you all to the Temple Gate Hotel.

"We are thrilled to take on the stewardship of the Temple Gate Hotel and are excited to build upon the fantastic work of the Madden family," said Dermot Kelly. "Our goal is to maintain the essence of what makes Temple Gate so special while introducing new ideas that will ensure its continued success."

John Gavin added, "Temple Gate Hotel has been a cornerstone of the community in Ennis, and we look forward to working close-

Clare County Council is currently inviting applications from suitably qualified persons for the below competitions. Clare County Council will, following the interview process, form panels for the areas set out below from which future relevant vacancies may be filled subject to sanction approval from the Department of Housing, Local Government & Heritage.

Please complete online application form available on www.clarecoco.ie under Careers Section. Only applications completed online will be accepted.

• Executive Chartered Building Surveyor

Closing date: 12 Noon Thursday 24th October 2024.

• General Operative –Killaloe Municipal District

Closing date: 12 Noon Thursday 24th October 2024.

Clare County Council is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all sectors of the Community.

Scriobh chugainn as gaeilge más fearr leat.

San am i láthair, tá Comhairle Contae an Chláir ag iarraidh iarratais ó dhaoine a bhfuil na cáilíochtaí oiriúnacha acu ar na comórtais thíosluaite. Tar éis an phróisis agallaimh, cruthóidh Comhairle Contae an Chláir painéil le haghaidh na réimsí atá leagtha amach thíos óna bhféadfar folúntais ábhartha amach anseo a líonadh faoi réir ceadú a fháil ón Roinn Tithíochta, Rialtais Áitiúil & Oidhreachta.

Comhlánaigh, le do thoil, an fhoirm iarratais ar líne atá ar fáil ar www.clarecoco.ie faoin rannán dar teideal ‘Careers’. Ní ghlacfar ach le hiarratais atá comhlánaithe ar líne.

• Suirbhéir Foirgnimh Cairte Feidhmiúcháin

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Scriobh chugainn as gaeilge más fearr leat.

ly with the team, building on their achievements, and welcoming both new and returning guests in the months ahead."

n Dermot Kelly and John Gavin, the new owners of the Temple Gate Hotel in Ennis

Photo by Tom Micks

In our last article, we covered the topic of Temporary lay-offs and short time which led us into Statutory Redundancy. Now, let’s take a closer look at the process of redundancies in more detail.

Redundancy can be a complex and often difficult process, both for employers and employees. This article explores the legal framework surrounding redundancy, the obligations of employers, the rights of employees, and key forms such as the RP9. Understanding these processes is essential to ensure that redundancies are handled correctly and in compliance with employment law. We are already seeing an increase in business restructuring therefore having the right policies, supports and advise is key. Even making the decision can be very difficult and emotional for a business owner(s).

Legal Framework Governing Redundancies

Redundancies are governed by a series of legal statutes aimed at protecting employees and ensuring fair procedures are followed. The key pieces of legislation include:

• Redundancy Payments Acts 1967-2014: These acts cover the rights of individual employees in the context of redundancy, including notice periods and statutory redundancy payments.

• Minimum Notice and Terms of Employment Acts 1973-2005: This legislation mandates the minimum notice periods employers must provide to employees during termination of employment, including redundancy.

• Protection of Employment Acts 1977-2024: This act lays out specific obligations for employers during collective redundancies, where a large number of employees are affected.

• Unfair Dismissals Acts 19772015: While redundancy is not considered a dismissal in the traditional sense, this act provides recourse for employees who believe they were unfairly selected for redundancy or that the redundancy was not genuine.

Redundancy: What Does It Mean?

Redundancy occurs when an employee’s position ceases to exist, and they are not replaced. According to law, any employee aged 16 or over with 104 weeks (two years) of continuous service is entitled to a statutory redundancy payment. The statutory redundancy payment consists of two weeks’ gross pay per year of service, capped at €600 per week, plus one additional week’s pay, also subject to the €600 cap.

However, redundancy must be based on genuine grounds. Common reasons include:

Redundancies decoded: practical insights

• Financial difficulties: The employer may need to cut costs, which results in a reduced workforce.

• Lack of work: There may no longer be a need for employees with certain skills, or new technologies may have rendered certain roles unnecessary.

• Reorganisation: The business may restructure, eliminating certain roles.

• Business closure: The employer may close down or relocate the business.

The Difference Between Redundancy and Dismissal

It’s important to distinguish between redundancy and dismissal. Dismissal typically involves an employee being let go due to misconduct or poor performance, while redundancy is a consequence of the employer’s need to reduce staff for legitimate business reasons. For the redundancy to be fair, the employer must demonstrate a genuine need and follow proper procedures, such as providing adequate notice.

Voluntary vs. Compulsory Redundancy

Redundancy can be voluntary or compulsory:

• Voluntary redundancy: Employers may invite employees to volunteer for redundancy, offering financial incentives in return for leaving their roles. This is often used to avoid compulsory redundancies.

• Compulsory redundancy: Employers identify which employ-

ees will be made redundant based on selection criteria, which must be fair, transparent, and applied consistently.

Collective Redundancies

Collective redundancies occur when a significant number of employees are made redundant over a short period. The thresholds for collective redundancies are:

• 5 employees from a workforce of 21 to 49 employees

• 10 employees from a workforce of 50 to 99 employees

• 10% of employees from a workforce of 100 to 299 employees

• 30 employees from a workforce of 300 or more employees

In such cases, the employer must follow strict legal procedures, including consulting with employees or their representatives at least 30 days before issuing redundancy notices. These consultations are intended to explore alternatives to redundancies. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in penalties.

The Role of Consultation

Consultation is a crucial aspect of the redundancy process. Employers must discuss potential redundancies with employees or their representatives (such as a trade union), exploring any alternatives before making a final decision. This process is particularly important in collective redundancies. Employers are legally required to provide specific information during these consultations, including:

• The reasons for the redundancy

• The number of employees affected

• The selection criteria used

• The method of calculating redundancy payments

Notice Periods and Minimum Entitlements

Employees being made redundant are entitled to a notice period based on their length of service.

The minimum notice periods are:

Period of Service

Minimum Notice

Between 13 weeks and 2 years 1 week

Between 2-5 years 2 weeks

Between 5-10 years 4 weeks

Between 10-15 years 6 weeks

Over 15 years

8 weeks

Employers must provide this notice in writing, specifying the termination date. If the employee is not required to work during the notice period, they are still entitled to be paid for the full notice period or receive payment in lieu of notice.

Form RP9 and Redundancy Due to Layoff or Short-Time Working

If an employee has been on layoff or short-time working for at least four consecutive weeks, they may initiate a claim for redundancy using Form RP9. This form is essential for notifying the employer of the employee’s intention to claim a redundancy payment. Failure to follow the correct procedures, such as notifying the

employer in writing or providing sufficient notice, can affect the employee’s entitlement to statutory redundancy payments.

The Importance of a Redundancy Policy

Every employer should have a clear redundancy policy to ensure that any redundancy process is handled fairly and legally. A well-drafted redundancy policy should cover:

• Selection criteria: Establish objective and transparent criteria for selecting employees for redundancy, such as “last in, first out” (LIFO) or a points system based on performance, attendance, and skills.

• Consultation process: Outline the steps the employer will take to consult with employees and explore alternatives to redundancy.

• Notice periods and payments: Define the notice periods employees will be entitled to, and the process for calculating redundancy payments, including any additional payments above the statutory requirement.

Having a clear policy not only ensures compliance with the law but also helps protect employers from potential claims of unfair dismissal.

Redundancy in Special Circumstances

Certain situations require special consideration, such as when employees are on sick leave, maternity leave, or carer’s leave. Employees on maternity leave cannot be made redundant during their leave period. Similarly, selecting an employee for redundancy based on their pregnancy or caring responsibilities may constitute unfair dismissal.

Conclusion

Redundancy is a last resort for employers and can be a challenging experience for employees. However, by adhering to the legal framework, consulting with employees, and ensuring a fair and transparent process, redundancies can be managed effectively. Both employers and employees must be aware of their rights and responsibilities during the process to avoid disputes and potential claims of unfair dismissal. Having a robust redundancy policy in place and understanding the role of forms like RP9 are critical steps in safeguarding against legal challenges. Feel free to reach out to us to discuss your specific requirements in the area of redundancies. Contact us on 086 238 1555 or elaine@ eraltd.ie. We are only a call or email away!

'Fresh legs' kill off Miltown

TUS CLARE SFC QUARTER FINAL

Kilmurry Ibrickane 2-15 St Joseph's Miltown 0-10

Venue: Shanahan McNamara Memorial Park, Doonbeg

Compiled by Páraic McMahon

STORY OF THE GAME

KILMURRY IBRICKANE

Frees: 15 (10/5)

Wides: 4 (2/2)

Spread of scorers: 7

Scores from play: 1-9

Top scorer: Keelan Sexton (2-5 1-0 Pen 3f)

Bookings: Andrew Shannon (48), Evan Cahill (60)

Own kickouts won: 17 from 19 (89%)

ST JOSEPH’S MILTOWN

Frees: 21 (11/10)

Wides: 9 (4/5)

Spread of scorers: 2

Scores from play: 0-3

Top scorer: Eoin Cleary (0-9 7f)

Bookings: None

Own kickouts won: 17 from 21 (81%)

REFEREE: John O’Connell (Cooraclare)

“

MANAGER COMMENT

David Egan, Kilmurry Ibrickane:

“We talked all week about the dogfight coming down the last ten minutes and let’s be in it.

"We got a penalty after the brink of half time which we scored, we were six or seven up at that stage, we had a plan early days that we were going to be bringing on subs around the 40 or 45 minute mark, it coincided with the penalty so we were bringing on fresh bodies and had just put a penalty in the net so it really put the nail in the coffin at that stage.

“It’s down to sheer absolute workrate and playing to a sys-

tem that everyone is comfortable with, football is not that complicated of a game.

“Today gives us something which I felt we lacked all year which is a bit of belief. If we can channel into that belief and focus on ourselves, we don’t have to be too worried for the next week about who we get or what we get in the draw, between now and next Sunday we’ll concentrate on ourselves and then whoever we get we’ll do a bit of analysis on them from that moment on”.

“I think almost all of their scores [in the first half] came from easy turnovers and we handed the ball back to them on several occasions. We kept trying to go up through the centre, we didn’t use our width anyway whatsoever, any team in the championship you will not break them down up the centre.

"Of course, the goal changed the game completely but we were still

in it, we got back within reason but unfortunately we played back into their hands in the second half.

“I find it hard to reflect on what it actually is, every close game we played last year we died with our boots on. Today we didn’t, we really caved in a little too early in the second half, the game was there to rescue just after half time but we didn’t go and make a real effort to rescue the game”.

'Savage' desire from Ennistymon

TUS CLARE SFC QUARTER FINAL

Ennistymon 1-07 St Breckan's 0-08

Venue: Hennessy Memorial Park, Miltown Malbay

Compiled by Páraic McMahon

STORY OF THE GAME

ENNISTYMON

Frees: 12 (6/6)

Wides: 4 (0/4)

Spread of scorers: 7

Scores from play: 1-5

Top scorer: Liam Cotter (1-0)

Bookings: Seán Rynne (27), Black Card: Noel Sexton (32)

Red Card: Brendan Rouine (coach) (54)

Own kickouts won: 11 from 13 (85%)

ST BRECKAN’S Frees: 11 (5/6) Wides: 5 (4/1)

Spread of scorers: 4

Scores from play: 0-4

Top scorer: Jamie Stack (0-4 4f)

Bookings: Jamie Stack (27), Colm O’Brien (53) Red Card: Pat Haugh (selector) (54) Own kickouts won: 8/12 (67%)

REFEREE: Fergal O’Brien (Broadford)

MANAGER COMMENT “

Ger Quinlan, Ennistymon:

“That is where we want to be, in the last four. We’re under no illusions as to who we will be up against all those three teams have Jack Daly medals so we will be the out and out underdog no matter who we meet but we’re there which is the main thing.

“We knew that the first half was going to be tricky to get a score but the lads worked it well in for our three scores in the first half, they were earned but we took them well.

“Our lads showed a savage amount of workrate and a bit of desire to win today, that was the difference, you can have all the gameplans and tactics but it came down to who wanted it the most. St Breckan’s wanted it too of course they did but maybe when it came down to the melting pot we wanted it a bit more, it stood to us”.

“There was a crazy gale...our lads were a credit and I’m very proud of them”.

“We didn’t get enough of a foothold in the first half, we were up four points at half time but it was never going to be enough with the strength of the wind.

"Ennistymon to be fair controlled the ball well especially in the first half...in the second half we needed to eek out one or two scores

Familiar foes meet in county semi-finals

TWO REPEAT county finals are on the horizon for the semi-finals of the TUS Clare senior football championship, writes Páraic McMahon

Four clubs are left standing in the SFC, all with the aim of being the side to lift the Jack Daly in a month’s time.

The semi-final draw took place at Clare GAA’s Centre of Excellence on Monday evening and was officiated by Clare GAA Chairman, Kieran Keating and Head of Operations, Deirdre Murphy.

Favourites Éire Óg will meet Ennistymon in a repeat of the 2022 final where it finished 0-9 0-6 in favour of the Ennis club. The Townies had a strong 2-14 0-6 quarter-final victory over St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield while Ennistymon booked their place in the last four for the first time in two years when edging out North Clare rivals St Breckan’s by two points.

Kilmurry Ibrickane and Cratloe have had many showdowns over the last decade including the 2020 final where the West Clare side were victorious on a score of 1-12 0-12, while it took to a replay to decide the winner when they met in the 2016 decider with The Bricks again coming out on top. The sides met in last year’s quarter-final where Cratloe recorded a 1-7 0-9 win. At intermediate level, Kilrush Shamrocks and Wolfe Tones will meet at the penultimate stage for the second year running. The Shams had a 3-10 3-15 on that occasion twelve months ago in a tie which was moved to Meelick on account of the weather conditions. Daniel Ryan’s Kilrush prevailed over Cooraclare in a tight contest on Saturday while Johnny Bridges’ Wolfe Tones were far too strong for Shannon Gaels in their quarter-final. It will be the first intermediate semi-final meeting of Naomh Eoin and Clondegad but their second meeting in this year’s championship. They clashed in the first round when the Peninsula side had a surprising but merited 4-6 2-6 victory. Barry Harte’s charges have remained unbeaten since with wins over Shannon Gaels, Ennistymon and a tight battle with The Banner this weekend. Clondegad’s form in the group stages was mixed where they bounced back with successive victories over Ennistymon and Shannon Gaels before producing an improved display to overcome O’Curry’s in the quarter-finals on Saturday. James Murrihy’s panel has been strengthened by the addition of hurlers since Ballyea’s championship exit.

Semi-final pairings were also made in the Junior A and Junior B Premier football championships.

TUS Clare Senior Football Championship Semi-Finals (October 12/13)

Ennistymon v Éire Óg

Kilmurry Ibrickane v Cratloe

TUS Clare Intermediate Football Championship Semi-Finals (October 12/13)

Naomh Eoin v Clondegad

Wolfe Tones v Kilrush Shamrocks

which probably would have been enough for us, but we didn’t keep the scoreboard ticking over.

"It wasn’t a day for fancy football, a day for long kickouts and breaking ball, we went back to the old stuff and to be fair Ennistymon came out on top in that regard”.

Martin Murphy Clare Junior A Football Championship Semi-Finals (October 12/13) Éire Óg v Michael Cusacks

Kilfenora v Clarecastle

Martin Murphy Clare Junior B Football Championship Semi-Finals (Oct 12/13)

St Joseph’s Miltown v Wolfe Tones Éire Óg v Moy

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

l Martin McMahon blocks Sean Neylon’s shot Photo by Gerard O'Neill

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

l Cillian Rouine bursts past the challenge of Rowan Danaher Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Martin Guerin, St Joseph's Miltown Malbay:

Declan O'Keeffe, St Breckan's:

Kilmihil secure spot

Kilmihil 1-06

Corofin 0-04

Venue: Hennessy Memorial Park, Miltown Malbay

STORY OF GAME

KILMIHIL

Frees: 15 (6/9)

Wides: 5 (4/1)

Spread of scorers: 4

Scores from play: 1-5

Top scorer: Martin O’Leary (0-3 1f)

Bookings: Shane Downes (1), Martin O’Leary (12)

Own kickouts won: 7 from 12 (58%)

COROFIN

Frees: 17 (8/9)

Wides: 9 (2/7)

Spread of scorers: 4 Scores from play: 0-4

Top scorer: Gearoid Kelly (0-1), John Rees (0-1), Kevin Keane (0-1), Damien O’Loughlin (0-1).

Bookings: Marc O’Loughlin (12), Caoimhin Donovan (19), Cian Doolin (51).

Own kickouts won: 10 from 13 (77%)

REFEREE: Barry Kelly (St Joseph’s Miltown)

“

MANAGER COMMENT

Michael Doran, Kilmihil:

“We’d have taken it at the start of the year if you told us we could secure our spot, we didn’t go about it the way we wanted to the way the year went but when it mattered today the boys stood up”.

“When we looked at the first two games we know we weren’t at it and just didn’t turn up, we turned a corner in the third round I know Kilmurry Ibrickane beat us but we put in a much better performance, the last day against Doonbeg I thought if we got our noses in front we could have won that game, it was very tight but they are a seasoned senior team and know how to see it out. With the conditions, we knew today was just going to be about hard work, that is what it was”.

“A lot goes into a senior campaign, you don’t want to be the team going down because you can look at it as the waste of a year, it is a lot of work put in for nothing so I’m delighted for them because they deserve it”.

“Doonbeg saw us away the last day because they are a seasoned senior team, there is a craft there that you have to learn, you don’t learn it from playing intermediate you learn it from playing senior, that is what we want for ourselves, we have the opportunity to go again and build on it so all in all we’re delighted”.

“You never know what is going to happen with lads going travelling, we’ll reassess in a few weeks and see what we have for next year, certainly we will be going out to lads that we lost this year to see if we can get the numbers back up because we were a thin squad this year and it showed at times, we have to build on it”.

Éire Óg 'the standard-bearers'

TUS CLARE SFC QUARTER FINAL

ÉIRE ÓG 2-14 St Joseph's Doora-Barefield 0-06

Venue: Cusack Park, Ennis

Compiled by Eoin Brennan

STORY OF THE GAME

ÉIRE ÓG

Frees For: 15 (7/8)

Wides: 8 (2/6)

Scores from Play: 2-10

Spread of Scorers: 6

Top Scorers: Mark McInerney (0-5 3f), Colm Walsh

O’Loghlen (1-2)

Bookings: Dean Ryan (29), Niall McMahon (43)

Own Kick-Outs won: 8 from 10 (80%)

DOORA/BAREFIELD

Frees For: 12 (7/5)

Wides: 5 (4/1)

Scores from Play: 0-4

Spread of Scorers: 4

Top Scorer: Tom Curran (0-3)

Bookings: Fionn Kelleher (9), Eoghan Boyle (37), Fionn Kelleher (40)

Sendings Off: Fionn Kelleher

Own Kick-Outs won: 14 from 21 (67%)

REFEREE: Martin Downes (Naomh Eoin)

MANAGER COMMENT “

Paul Madden, Éire Óg::

“The goal was to get to the semi-final and we’ve achieved that. It didn’t really matter to me per say how we got there, once we got there. There wasn’t any talk of last year within the camp, I know it was mentioned outside of the camp leading up to today how we got a scare 12 months ago but at this stage of the championship, you’re always going to be severely tested especially in a local derby.

“We’re in a good position injury and squad-wise at the

moment. As a player you can’t drop your guard for a minute because if you do, you’re likely to lose your place in the team and as a collective if you drop your guard, you’ll get dumped out of the championship so we’ve got to stay alert and utilise out squad to the best of our ability.

“It’s great that Éire Óg have all three adult teams into semi-finals and we’d love to be in the semi-final of the senior hurling too but unfortunately we didn’t win our quarter-final.

But our junior hurlers are in a quarter-final this weekend and our Junior C hurlers are effectively in a knock-out game as well so on both fronts it has been very positive this year.”

Donagh Vaughan, Doora-Bare'

“We can have no complaints unfortunately as we just couldn’t match Éire Óg. We started well but Éire Óg soon got on top and with the wind being so strong, we didn’t score enough in

the first half and found it difficult to get anything out of the second half.

“They’re the standard-bearers and that’s the level that we’re all going to have to get to if we’re going to seriously compete for senior honours. Fair Play to Éire Óg, they have a fine squad and were even able to bring county players off the bench which tells you how strong they are."

Collins proud of Cratloe men

TUS CLARE SFC QUARTER FINAL

Cratloe 1-13

Lissycasey 0-13

Venue: Cusack Park, Ennis

Compiled by Eoin Brennan

STORY OF THE GAME

CRATLOE

Frees For: 12 (5/7)

Wides: 7 (4/3)

Scores from Play: 1-8

Spread of Scorers: 8

Top Scorers: Cathal McInerney (0-5 3f 1M), Podge Collins (1-2)

Booked: Michael Brennan (32)

Own Kick-Outs won: 18 from 21 (86%)

LISSYCASEY

Frees For: 12 (6/6)

Wides: 9 (4/5)

Scores from Play: 0-9

Spread of Scorers: 3

Top Scorer: Daire Culligan (0-5 2f)

Bookings: Conor Finnucane (59)

Own Kick-Outs won: 15 from 21 (71%)

REFEREE: Chris Maguire (Wolfe Tones)

MANAGER COMMENT “

Colm Collins, Cratloe:

We dug out it well I thought and we showed composure at the end when we needed to show it. I was very impressed with Lissycasey and they have some amazing talent coming through so I think it’s only a matter of time for them really. Their young lads were very impressive again today but I think the bit of cuteness at the end was the difference as even when it came to a draw we didn’t pan-

ic and drove on again and got ourselves back in front.

"Lissycasey missed chances at key times but we missed a few three pointers ourselves at the other end that at the time might have even put the game out of reach even. They were our main regrets as we missed two or three goal chances but listen we’re just happy to get out of here with a win.

“I knew that they were a

decent side and that their story in the champonship wasn’t their real story. I mean against Kilmurry, they lost the two Griffins [Aaron and Shane] and it made a massive differ-ence and then they didn’t play against Éire Óg so to be missing the quality of Aaron and Shane is serious so I knew that they were going to be far better than that and I was proved right today as they really played well and we were put to the pin of our collar today.

“Overall you’ve got to be very proud of these lads, they’re an experienced bunch, they keep their cool and again today they got the result in a tight game.

“It’s fantastic to be in both the football and hurling semi-finals as to be fair, we thought those days were gone so this ia a super bonus.”

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

l Martin Downes signals advantage as Darren O’Neill powers forward

Photo by Ruth Griffin

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

l Mike Brennan gets away from Darren Keane

Photo by Ruth Griffin

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

TUS CLARE SFC RELEGATION FINAL

Compiled by Páraic McMahon

l Damien O’Loughlin fights to maintain possession against Ciaran and Shane Downes

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Goals win game for Cooraclare

TUS CLARE IFC QUARTER-FINAL

Kilrush Shamrocks 5-06

Cooraclare 1-13

Venue: St Michael’s Park, Kilmihil Compiled by Páraic McMahon

KILRUSH SHAMROCKS

Frees: 15 (7/8)

Wides: 4 (2/2)

Spread of scorers: 6

Scores from play: 5-2

Top scorer: Don O’Driscoll (2-0)

Bookings: Sean Madigan (21), Padraig Browne (25), Jimmy Browne (48).

Own kickouts won: 14 from 21 (67%)

COORACLARE

Frees: 23 (9/14)

Wides: 7 (2/5)

Spread of scorers: 4

Scores from play: 1-6

Top scorer: Micheál Garry (0-7 7f)

Bookings: Brian McNamara (38).

Own kickouts won: 11 from 15 (73%)

REFEREE: Barry Kelly (St Joseph’s Miltown)

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

scoring a goal

MANAGER COMMENT “

Daniel Ryan, Kilrush Shamrocks:

“It was a good performance, we always said once we heard that draw that Cooraclare were set up very well defensively but we had the players around so we’re happy to get the result. It was hard at times, they kicked some very good scores but we responded with goals at different times which was the killing part because goals win games.

“We’ve watched a lot of the teams and in fairness they were set up very well in the last two or three games that we’ve seen, we had to find a way to beat them down and thankfully we did, we do a lot of work outside of games and training in studying games so I think that is a big thing, we need to play on our terms and find ways to break down teams and thankfully we did today.

“We were in trouble in the middle of the field for a while, they tagged on a few scores but goals win games and that was the difference, we got the goals whereas they got one and we need to improve on point-taking the next

have a big squad and that came on made difference, Darragh Joe Miniter, Tom-

my Dullaghan and Keith Crowley, we have a good bench and we’ve been working all year on building a panel because you won’t any game with 15 players, you need 19 or 20”.

“There has been a lot of good work done by the team over the last couple of months, we started back in November doing strength and conditioning so in fairness to the lads they have a huge amount of work put in and we’re disappointed to be out.

“You don’t think when you’re going out in a game that you’re going to concede five goals, I knew Kilrush were good up front with a good bit of pace, we were hoping to see could we counteract that but we got exposed. One or two slips and one or two silly mistakes created one or two for them, they deserved one or two of course but I thought we came back well each time but you can’t keep coughing up goals”.

Murrihy happy with Clondegad

TUS CLARE IFC QUARTER FINAL

Clondegad 0-14 O'Curry's 0-08

Venue: Captain Tubridy Memorial Park, Kilrush Compiled by Seamus Hayes

STORY OF THE GAME

CLONDEGAD

Frees For: 12 (4/8)

Wides: 4 (2/2)

Scores from play: 0-12

Spread of scorers: 8

Top scorer: Podge McMahon (0-3 1f) & Sean O’Leary (0-3 1f)

Bookings: Sean O’Leary (27)

Black Card: Brian Casey (57)

Own kickouts won: 12 of 16

REFEREE: Pat Healy (Kilmaley)

“

O’CURRY’S Frees For: 23 (13/10) Wides: 8 (4/4)

Scores from play: 0-2

Spread of scorers: 5

Top scorer: Danny Downes (0-3 3f) Own kickouts won; 12 out of 18

Bookings; Thomas Clancy (21); Shane Browne (27)

MANAGER COMMENT

“We started well, first half was good and our shooting efficiency was up, we missed a couple of goal chances. We came out in the second half and we never maintained that same intensity. We went in six up at half time and we would have liked to have pushed that to seven and to eight but it never happened. You won’t get anything easy off O’Curry’s, just seventeen players togged there today and they battled and battled. For us while we were able to make the substitutions, we got a bit nervy in the final seven

or eight minutes but overall we deserved the victory.

“The second quarter was the key, we have tried to kick scores from long range. Clondegad’s shooting efficiency wouldn’t have been the greatest over the last few years, they created a lot of chances and maybe there was an over dependence on Gary (Brennan) to get scores. This is something we have worked on. It was nice to see that change today, particularly in the first half. If you gave me this at the start of the year, you would bite a hand off for this, thankfully

TUS CLARE IFC QUARTER-FINALS

Naomh Eoin 0-11 Banner 1-07

Venue: Cooraclare

Compiled by Seamus Hayes

NAOMH EOIN

Frees For: 28 (15/13)

Wides: 4 (3/1)

Scores from play: 0-7

Spread of scorers: 5

Top scorer: Conor Magner (0-3 3f) and Owen Lynch (0-3 1f)

Bookings: Adam Haugh (18); Declan Keniry (31); Fergal Keane (51) Own kickouts won: 8 out of 12 (67%)

BANNER

Frees For; 24 (10/14) Wides: 4 (1/3)

Scores from play: 1-3

Spread of scorers: 5

Top scorer: Ronan Kilroy (1-1)

Bookings; Mufana Flynn (26); Justin McGrath (37)

Own kickouts won: 8 out of 15 (53%)

REFEREE: Pat Keane (Lissycasey)

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

we are the first in the hat for the semi-final draw. It's back to training now for the semi-final.

“It’s a massive bonus for the club that the three adult teams are still going. You see today we had 36/37 players and we had another five or six injured. As an outside person coming in I am amazed at the number of players in the club. All three teams are competitive”.

We missed some frees in the first half which proved costly. Credit to the lads, they kept working.

"We had a few chances, we created goal chances and we didn’t take them. They took their opportunists when they got them. The lads gave everything. We are struggling for numbers and one or two played through injury”. Seán Haugh, O'Curry's players:

“We had a slow start, got back into it but they finished the first half stronger

REFEREE: Pat

Photo by Gerard

James Murrihy, Clondegad:

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

l Gudgy O’Connell tackles Eoin Troy

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Martin Daly, Cooraclare

l Naomh Eoin’s

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

l Wolfe Tones’ Dean Devanney

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

TUS CLARE

IHC RELEGATION FINAL

Liscannor 2-13 Killimer 0-09

Venue: Páirc Naomh Mhuire, Quilt

Compiled by Ross O'Donoghue

STORY OF THE GAME

LISCANNOR:

Frees for: 16 (7/9)

Wides: 10 (6/4)

Scores from play: 2-10

Spread of scorers: 4

Top scorer: Cian Guerin (2-05)

Bookings: None

Own kickouts won: 61% (11/18)

KILLIMER

Frees for: 15 (8/7)

Wides: 9 (3/6)

Scores from play: 0-5

Spread of scorers: 5

Top scorer: Mikey Kelleher (0-3 3f)

Bookings: Declan Pyne (12)

Own kickouts won: 56% (13/25)

REFEREE: Barry Keating (Lissycasey)

Bohannon out for 2025

CLARE’s next football manager will be without one of the county’s key players for 2025, writes Páraic McMahon.

Midfielder Darragh Bohannon will be unavailable for the Clare cause next season as he prepares to go travelling meaning Mark Fitzgerald’s successor will not be able to call on one of the most experienced members of this year’s panel.

Speaking on The Water Break, The Clare Echo’s podcast, the secondary school teacher confirmed he will not be involved with Clare next season. “It was Mark (Fitzgerald) I thought I was going to be telling but I will be going travelling next year so it will be a year out from Clare next year but the plan is to go back again the following year, I want to see a bit of the world while I’m still young enough, I’ve a brother and sister in Australia that are out there seven years so I must get out and see them and a few more bits of the world too”.

Twenty five year old Bohannon first joined the county senior football panel at the age of seventeen in the summer of 2016, he linked up with Colm Collins’ squad alongside Joe McGann and Jonah Culligan who were recruited fresh from Clare’s exit to Waterford in the Munster minor semi-final that year. He made his senior championship debut the following year, coming on as a substitute when Clare defeated Laois in the qualifiers. A first start in the senior championship arrived in May 2019 when he partnered Gary Brennan in the middle of the park for Clare’s 0-9 0-8 Munster quarter-final win over Waterford.

Darragh was due to depart the county panel in 2020 with plans to spend the summer in San Francisco but the onset of COVID-19 meant he traversing Shaughnessy’s Cross rather than visiting Mt Davidson Cross.

Huge interest in Clare football top job

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

CLARE is one of four counties without a senior inter-county football manager for 2025 with interest in the vacancy growing.

Mark Fitzgerald’s decision to step away after one year in the role came as a big surprise to members of the panel. Seanie Buckley had exited as coach shortly after Clare’s elimination from the All-Ireland series with James Costello also bowing out after joining Jack O’Connor’s Kerry management for next year.

Fitzgerald later opted to get involved with Kerry’s U20s rather than a second year in charge of the Clare senior footballers. The Tralee man had been at a number of club games in Clare which had heightened expectation that he would remain.

Clare GAA have yet to announce publicly what process is in place to appoint Fitzgerald’s successor and whether a committee has been appointed to try fill the vacancy.

The Clare Echo understands that officials within the County Executive at an officers meeting last Tuesday asked if a committee was in place and who it consisted of. They were informed that work was ongoing to appoint a successor with strong interest both inside and outside of the county for the role with no names given on those in the running for the job or the persons that will be deciding the next manager.

Former Clare manager, Colm Collins has ruled out a return as county manager. Two-time Clare

SFC winning Éire Óg manager,

Paul Madden has also said he will be not allowing his name to be considered for the role at this present time. David O’Brien who was part of Collins’ management along with guiding St Joseph’s Miltown to win the 2019 Clare SFC and Clare’s All-Ireland intermediate ladies football success of 2009 has confirmed he will not be in the mix for the job.

Michael Neylon even though he was ratified to continue as Clare U20 manager days after Fitzgerald’s resignation is among the preferred candidates of senior officials on the County Executive.

At the September meeting of the County Board, the Miltown Malbay man was appointed for a fifth year in charge of the Clare U20 footballers. He previously served as a selector for the Clare seniors during Mick O’Dwyer’s

sole season in charge (2013) and remained in the role when Colm Collins took charge and stayed there in 2014 and 2015.

Neylon has guided St Joseph’s Miltown to win the Clare SFC in 2015 and 2018. Tralee native, Jerome Stack who managed St Brigid’s to reach the All-Ireland club final earlier this year is linked to be part of his potential ticket. He also led Feale Rangers to win the Kerry SFC in 2007 and oversaw Dromcollogher-Broadford winning a Limerick SFC, he has coached both Limerick and Laois at senior inter-county level.

Two-time All-Ireland winner, Declan O’Keeffe has told The Clare Echo he would be interested in the position and that he is awaiting details on the process to be followed by Clare GAA in appointing a new manager before finalising a potential ticket.

O’Keeffe spent four years as

part of the Clare management under Colm Collins working as a goalkeeper coach and selector. The two-time All Star has also been involved with Roscommon at senior level. Since 2019, he has been involved with St Breckan’s, acting as manager for the past two seasons which saw them reach the Clare SFC final where they lost out to Collins’ Cratloe and their 2024 run ended at the hands of Ennistymon at the quarter-final stage.

Outgoing selector Declan Downes is another name in the mix for the manager’s role. The Kilmihil man for the past nine seasons has been involved with the Clare senior footballers, he was a selector for eight of those under Colm Collins and provided the continuity when Mark Fitzgerald took over the reins.

Declan’s late father Tom was the first secretary of the Clare County Board and held the role of liaison officer for several years including when Clare were crowned Munster SFC champions in 1992. Having served his apprenticeship as a selector for almost a decade, a step-up to manager is now a possibility for Downes.

Interest has also been expressed from candidates outside of the county, The Clare Echo understands with a shortlist expected to be produced next week.

Westmeath, Derry and New York have yet to appoint their managers for 2025 while Galway are on the hunt for a new coach following Cian O’Neill’s return to Kerry.

Close contests predicted for county hurling semi-finals

CLOSE CONTESTS are on the cards with four teams left vying to lift the Canon Hamilton but by the end of the weekend the county finalists will be known, writes Seamus Hayes.

Scariff senior hurling manager Mark McKenna is, understandably disappointed that he is not busy finalising plans ahead of a county senior hurling semi-final date this weekend.

A one point loss to Cratloe two weeks ago ended his side’s involvement in this season's title race, a result which means that his role this weekend is reduced to that of a spectator.

While still coming to grips with his side’s exit from the race, the Scariff man expects two close contests in this week’s semi-finals. “Cratloe are an experienced side and momentum appears to be with them. They won again at the weekend when qualifying for the football semi-final and they are sure to get a good bounce from that. They are after two good results against Kilmaley and Scariff and they will be hard to beat”. McKenna continued, “Feakle

are a very settled side. They had a few injuries last year but they have been very consistent this year. They have two county players, two All-Star nominees, one of whom is likely to be the young hurler of the year. They are a very solid side with Shane McGrath who is hurling out of his skin and he will take some watching. It’s a hard one to call and I won’t be surprised if extra time is required. Cratloe are always hard to beat but Feakle may edge this one by a point or two”.

Looking ahead to Sunday’s final between Inagh/Kilnamona and Sixmilebridge, he said, “heading into the quarter finals the prediction was for Éire Óg and Clonlara to progress but that didn’t mate-

rialise. The two that have come through are strong contenders. This is a Sixmilebridge team with a lot of experience and they have a bench that they can call upon and that is huge at this time of the season. We beat Inagh/Kilnamona in the opening round and that defeat seems to have got them going and they have been flawless since. They have two county players, both All Star nominees and that is a huge lift. They have had a lot of underage success which leads to the question when are they going to get the big break. They are where they want to be at this time and this is a huge chance for them”.

Turning to the relegation final between O’Callaghans Mills and Corofin, McKenna believes “the relegation final takes on a life of its own. It’s down to what you have on the field and the desire to grind out results. Corofin have lost key players to travel and injuries. The Mills would seem to have an edge and should edge what will be a tight contest”.

Looking at the intermediate semi-finals, the Scariff man isn’t

surprised at the progress of Killanena to this stage of the competition. “They are a coming side and they have some excellent young players coming through while they also have some great experience in their side. Tubber have been around the block, getting to finals but not getting over the line. They know what is required. They will see this as a chance to get to another final but I think Killanena can win this one”. Wolfe Tones are fancied to come through in the other semi-final, he said. “Wolfe Tones were installed as one of the favourites from the outset. They have had a few convincing results but they had to battle hard last day out for victory. That game will have shown them that the intermediate title race is a minefield. That said, they have huge inter county experience in their squad, much more than any of the other teams left in the race but Ruan have been knocking on the door for a while and they are in the semi-final on merit and they will put up a serious challenge to the Tones”, he concluded.

l Liscannor's Padraig Haugh

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Lynch rules out Westmeath

FORMER Clare hurler Fergal Lynch has ruled out a coaching role with the Westmeath senior hurlers, writes Páraic McMahon.

2013 All-Ireland winner Lynch had been reported to be on board as the new forwards coach with the Westmeath senior hurlers who are to be managed by Seoirse Bulfin but the primary school principal has confirmed to The Clare Echo his focus will be solely on an involvement with his native Clooney/Quin next season.

0-8 in Sunday’s semi-final.

Fergal is currently manager of the club’s senior hurlers who defeated O’Callaghans Mills in the relegation semi-final while he is also involved with their minor hurlers who are preparing for a county final appearance against St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield after overcoming Sixmilebridge 1-20

Forty one year old Lynch was coach of the Galway U20 hurlers in 2022 and 2023 with Brian Hanley who was part of the Clooney/ Quin senior management this season. Prior to this, Fergal was coach of the Castlegar senior hurlers and he managed the Clare minor hurlers in 2019 when they reached the Munster final and All-Ireland quarter-final.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Fergal said, “I’m focused solely on the club for the next couple of seasons. I am not interested with any roles other than that for now”. He added, “I am united to staying with Clooney/Quin and I’m still very committed to the club”.

TRUAUGH CLONLARA, SCARIFF OGONNELLOE STILL STANDING LADIES SENIOR CAMOGIE CHAMPIONSHIP

O'Brien stars at club championships

The Ennis Dental Health Centre Senior Tennis Club Championships 2024 took place over the last two weeks.

A fine entry of 159 entries spread over 19 events over 5 courts meant a busy week for organisers and players alike, with a lot of members playing 3 events. The weather and atmosphere on finals day, Saturday, could not have been better. There were many outstanding matches across all grades. Ciaran O’Brien claimed the Singles, Mens & Mixed Doubles Titles for another successive year.

The winners received the perpetual cups along with their prizes. A huge thanks to Dervilla Moloney Tennis Captain, Brian Moore Tournament Referee, the tournament committee, all the members who gave of their time so generously over the two weeks to make the tournament the great success that it was. A very enjoyable end to a great two weeks of tennis.

RESULTS

Men's singles A

1 Ciaran O'Brien [1/2] 2 Subbarami Reddy Lella

Men's singles B

1 Donal McCarthy 2 Ryan Colleran

Men's singles C

1 Damian Noonan 2 Guillermo Alonso [3/4]

Men's D novice singles

1 Paul Fitzgerald [1/2] 2 Alan Malone Ladies singles B

1 Jess Dagnall [2/2] 2 Teresa Curtin [1/2] Ladies singles C

1 Sinead Murphy [2/2] 2 Shona Cullinan [1/2]

Ladies D novice singles

1 Nora Aine Ni Nuallain [1/2] 2 Michelle Holly [2/2]

Men's doubles A

1 Ciaran O'Brien & Chris Rudland 2 Martin McMahon &Shane O’ Connor

Men's doubles B

1 Noel Brodie & Shane O’ Connor 2 James Jones & Liam Mockler

Men's doubles C

1 Bernard Mac Oscair & John O Connor 2 Guillermo Alonso & Maurice Young Men's D novice doubles

1 Paul Fitzgerald & Brett Young 2 Oliver Gavin & Niall Thornton

Ladies doubles A

1 Gemma Hassett & Sarah McSwiney

Ennis men start new campaign with win

Senior Men: Ennis RFC 15 – 10 Charleville RFC

The Senior Men’s team began their season with a 15 – 10 victory in Drumbiggle on Sunday.

There were a few chances for scores in the first half of the game, however, the overall score by halftime was 0 – 0.

Intensity picked up by the second half though, as Ennis’ Joe Connaughton and Calum Barrett scored the game's first score. Charleville kicked the ball dead from their own half, but Ennis were judged to have touched the ball. Charleville then won the five-metre scrum and succeeded in scoring, levelling out the match. With six minutes to go, Charleville were in the lead. But not for long, as a quick line-out and pass exchanges between Cian Guilfoyle and Barret helped Guilfoyle to score. With seconds to go, Charleville won a scrum and Ennis won a

penalty. A last-minute tap-and-go penalty resulted in Jack Scahill scoring the winning try and bringing the score to 15 – 10.

The senior men’s team included Bence Benco, Gavin Lawlor, Cian Enright, Cormac Browne, Matthew

McNamara, Dale Watson, Joey Keane, Seán McDonagh, Calum Barrett, Oisín Mangan (captain), Jack Dillion, Joe Connaughton, Brendan Keane, Cian Guilfoyle, and Jack Scahill. The substitutes were Diarmuid Joyce, Jack Colleran, Ryan Murphy, Shane Brennan, Michael McNeilis, Niall O’Brien, and Dylan Kenny.

U16 Boys: Ennis RFC 12 – 34 Nenagh RFC Nenagh won against Ennis’ team after a final result of 12 – 34 during an away game. Ennis fought hard throughout and managed to score a try from Cian Earle. The halftime score was 5 –19. During the second half, Ennis could not break down a resolute home defence. With two late tries from Nenagh, their win was sealed. The Clare team look forward to the

next few weeks with more defence work.

U15 Boys: Ennis RFC 31 – 0 Newcastle West RFC

The U15 boys’ team won another game with a score of 31 – 0 against Newcastle West after winning their last match against Ballinasloe.

The Clare team dominated the first half with two early tries by Stephen O’Neill, setting the tone for the game. Three more tries were scored by Donal Garvey, Jack O’Donoghue and O’Neill again.

The boys went into the second half with five substitutes. For the first 20 minutes, the opposing team had possession of the ball, but Ennis rallied on and held a strong defence. Tries were further scored by Josh Flynn and Cillian Dinan, leaving the score at 31 – 0.

Fixtures:

Senior Women: Ennis/Kilrush v Bruff

Friday 4th October

Kick-off at 7:30pm in Bruff

U16 Girls: Ennis v Garryowen

Saturday 5th October

Kick-off at 10:30am in Drumbiggle pitch

U14 Boys: Ennis v Garryowen

Sunday 6th October

Kick-off at 11am in Garryowen

U16 Boys: Ennis v Clanwilliam

Sunday 6th October

Kick-off at 11:30 am in Drumbiggle pitch

U15 Boys: Ennis v Clonakilty

Sunday 6th October

Kick-off at 1:00pm in Drumbiggle pitch

Senior Men: Ennis v St.Sennan’s

Sunday 6th October

Kick-off at 2:30pm in Shannon

l Ciaran O’Brien, Men’s A Singles & Club Champion 2024 with Dervilla Moloney, club Captain; (right) Ciaran and his playing partner Sarah McSwiney with runners-up Noel Gavin and Caoimhe Collins

Becky Foley was among the goal scorers for Truagh/Clonlara

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Sign of things to come in Ryder Cup?

by PÁDRAIG MCGRATH

Taking place at the Royal Montreal Golf Club in Quebec, Canada, the crowds at this year’s Presidents Cup were largely local, generating a lot of support for the international team, who were also captained by the well-known Canadian golfing legend Mike Weir. Mike was one of four Canadians who were involved in this year's international team, as the Canadian trio of Corey Conners, Mackenzie Hughes, and Taylor Pendrith were playing on the international side.

The opening Thursday four-balls saw each match go to the USA, and they lead by 5-0 after the initial day’s play. The Internationals bounced right back on the Friday, claiming a clean sweep in the foursomes matches.

This comeback was short-lived however as the Americans claimed 6 out of 8 points on the Saturday and stayed dominant across the Sunday singles matches too. When all was

said and done, the American’s were victorious on 18.5 points with the Internationals left far behind on 11.5.

Jim Furyk praised his team’s performance, and credited their control of the course. “We talked about being a dog all week, being the tougher team. I just feel like those back-nine holes, if you looked at how many holes won and lost, I’ve got to feel like we kind of owned the back nine this week, and that was the difference.”

Some standout performances include those by Patrick Cantlay, Collin Morikawa, and Xander Schauffele, who all won three team matches and their individual Sunday singles games. I thoroughly enjoyed watching the battle between the two Kim's V's Cantlay and Schauffele.

The USA asked Kim to take a short putt that he felt should have been given to him and afterwards he made sure they knew about how unhappy he was with their decision. A few holes later the Kim's returned the favour insisting the US side finish out a much shorter putt.

I can't remember the last time I

have seen so much passion in a match like this on the golf course and I have to say it was a lot of fun to watch.

Golf in general has almost gotten too friendly between the players. E veryone seems to want to be friends and unfortunately the game has lost a bit of the rivalry it used to have.

If you recall when Tiger dominated the sport, he wasn't overly friendly with too many players he very much kept to himself and always treated every game like he was going to battle. Nowadays players almost are happy for their opponents when they lose to them.

I don't think I am as much of a fan with the modern game and it is not as much fun to watch when players are

not going to battle anymore.

It was notably Keegan Bradley who secured the winning putt to bring the tournament to its conclusion.

The upcoming Ryder Cup captain finished 1UP in his match against Si Woo Kim when he secured a par on the 18th hole. We all saw the netflix series where Keegan was not selected at the last minute for the previous Ryder Cup and he wasn't sure if he would ever get to play another Presidents Cup.

“Wow, that was incredible. I was saying all week I didn’t know if I’d ever get to do this again. If this is my last round as a player, maybe it is, I’m happy with that.”

Keegan Bradley’s Team USA will face Luke Donald’s Europe at the Bethpage Black Golf Course in New York. Will Europe claim a consecutive victory? Or will the Americans take back the Ryder Cup on home soil?

Woodstock capture national mixed fourball title

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

WOODSTOCK GOLF CLUB:

THE inaugural mixed fourball inter club competition concluded at Oughterard in Galway at the weekend with Woodstock emerging as the All-Ireland champions.

Two hundred and thirty two (232) clubs entered the competition which the Eilish and Tony Neville managed Woodstock team won.

In the national semi-final on Friday they scored a 3-1 win over Portlaoise. The team on Friday comprised Mike and Chaye Kelly; Ollie McNamara and Margaret Ann Killeen; Pat and Hannah O’Brien, Eilish Neville and John O’Connor.

Woodstock’s opponents in Saturday's final were Castlebar and here again the Clare club emerged with a 3-1 victory. Team members on Saturday were Tony Neville and Margaret Ann Killeen; Mike Kelly and Annemarie Russell; Pat and Hannah O’Brien; Eilish Neville and John O’Connor

The winners of the club fourball competition at the weekend were; Sean Herbert (21) and Conor Gleeson (11) with 44 points. The Costello cup v Ennis will be played for this Sunday. The fzormat is scotch foursomes and the last tee time is 12pm. There will be a club singles this weekend and a team of four Texas scramble

DROMOLAND GOLF CLUB: John O’Neill with 40 points won the 18 hole singles stableford competition at Dromoland at the weekend. He had one to spare over Barry Nugent with Eamonn Power, also with 39 points, in third spot followed by Robert Healy on 38. Alan Ryan won the

gross with 32 points. Patrick McCoy won the 9 hole competition with 20 points from Ronan McCarthy with 19 and Mark Skehan, also with 19. In the ladies 18 hole v par competition the winner was Katrina O’Neill with 6 down.

The ladies 9 hole stableford competition was won by Katrina O’Neill with 19 points, one more than Joan Ryan with Sinead Burke Keogh in third spot with 17 points.

ENNIS GOLF CLUB: Sinéad O'Sullivan (46) with 37 points won the ladies 18 hole stableford competition at Ennis from Bridie Hanrahan (18) with 33 points with Carmel Verling (22) in third place, also with 33 points.

EAST CLARE GOLF CLUB: The Matthew Stephens sponsored ladies competition at East Clare was won by Eileen Donnellan, Noreen Doyle and Helen Downey with 64 points from Ann Harte, Noreen Doyle and Eileen Donnellan with a similar score. In third spot with 63 points were Margaret Lynch, Helen Downey and Noreen Doyle followed by Maureen Clune, Bridget Minogue and Breda McCarthy with 62 points. The winners of the ladies Wednesday competition were Noreen Doyle, Helen Conway and Breda McCarthy from Evelyn Skehan, Mary Fitzgerald and Mary Farrell with third spot filled by Pauline Nugent, Connie McKenna and Mary Stritch. Last week’s senior men’s competition was won by Terry Coughlan, Ted Harrington and Martin McKeogh from Jerry O'Brien, Tony McNulty and, Brendan Moloney with third pace filled by Michael Drew, Chris Davis and

THE

The

of Jim

Brian Torpey.

LATE JIM HASSETT:

sudden death

Hassett, Cahercalla, Ennis last Saturday came as a great shock. He was particularly well known to all

in amateur golfing circles. After graduating from college with an Engineering Degree, Jim co-founded Hassett Leyden & Associates, based in Ennis. Jim and his wife Valerie joined Lahinch Golf Club in 1969. Jim

golf club in 1975 while he was a founding trustee of Woodstock golf club.

and members of all three clubs were part of the guard of honour at his funeral.

l Woodstock were crowned the inaugural Irish Mixed Fourball winners

Photo: David Lloyd/Golffile

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL KNOCKANIRA, DARRAGH, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

Take notice that Nicola Brennan intends to apply to the planning authority for permission to construct a new dwelling house and garage complete with a new entrance, sewage treatment system and ancillary 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 the planning authority, Clare County Council, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis during its public opening hours and that 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 planning authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

I, Aidan McKeogh, am applying to the above authority for permission for the following development on property at Knockadereen, Bridgetown, Killaloe, Co Clare

Permission for the construction of a detached 2 storey dwelling, new entrance, bored well, onsite wastewater treatment system, connection to necessary services and all associated ancillary and 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 be-

ginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE

COUNTY

COUNCIL

UNIT 5 WESTBURY SHOPPING CENTRE, WESTBURY, CORBALLY, CO CLARE.

I Mentor Muco wish to apply to Clare County Council for retention permission for a change of use from a retail unit to a takeaway restaurant 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 the planning authority during its public opening hours and that 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 CO. COUNCIL ELMHILL, O CALLAGHANS MILLS

Take notice that Matthew & Conor Cooney intend to apply for permission for development, the development consists of the construction of a slatted unit replacing existing slurry pit and associated site works at the above address.

The planning application maybe 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. 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 CO. COUNCIL KILFEILIM, SPANCILHILL.

Take notice that Ian Carolan intends to apply for permission for development, the development consists of the construction of a slatted unit and associated site works at the above address.

The planning application maybe 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. 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 CO. COUNCIL

CLON ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

Permission for the retention a new entrance gate is being sought on behalf of E. Mathews.

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 Clare County Council, Áras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

LAHINCH ROAD, ENNISTYMON, CO CLARE

Take notice that Anna and Paul Ralph intend to apply for outline planning permission to build a New Dwelling, create a new entrance

onto public road, connect to mains sewerage & all other associated site and ancillary 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 the planning authority, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL KILCLEHAUN, QUILTY

Take notice that G. O’Boyle intends to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to demolish shed and bathroom areas, and extend existing dwelling house 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 the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL, ANNAGH, MILTOWN MALBAY, CO. CLARE, V95 P26 Take notice that P.

O’Looney & A. Garrihy intend to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to retain their existing garage as constructed and for permission to construct a new extension to the garage consisting of a home office and store / drying room along with associated site works at the above address. That 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 that 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. ABBEYWEST, BELLHARBOUR, COUNTY CLARE.

Take notice that Mr Noel O’Loughlen and Mr Eoin O’Loughlen are applying to Clare County Council for retention permission to retain relocated entranceway and front boundary wall to their land at Abbeywest, Bellharbour, County Clare.

This 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 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: Hometree (a registered charity RCN:

20206254) intend to apply for permission for development at this site; Deerpark, Ardnacullia South, Ennistymon, Co. Clare.

The development will consist of:

a) Retention of works to the existing farmhouse, a dry building (56.06 sq.m.) including replacement of existing slate roof with grey, powder coated corrugated aluminium roof; the installation of roof mounted solar panels and associated infrastructure as well as 2 no. rooflights, 2 no. external doors;

b) Retention works to widen an existing agricultural entrance on the Ardnaculla Road from 6m to 7.4m as well as permission for upgrade works to the entrance including the provision of a new timber gate, the set back of an existing wall and as surface water drainage;

c) Retention of a standalone staff welfare facilities (wooden cabin);

d) The retention of works to provide a car parking area as well as permission for extension of the car park;

e) The retention of internal access tracks to the northeast and southwest;

f) The development of a new internal access track running northsouth across the site;

g) Temporary Retention of 1 no. composting toilet;

h) Retention of volunteer accommodation cabin;

i) The retention of a farm office;

j) The development of 5 no. horticultural polytunnels (1464 sq.m, with a maximum height of 3.6 m);

k) The development of 1 no horticultural shed (212 sq.m.) with a maximum height of 7m;

l) The development of a welfare block (43.4 sq.m) including toilets and washroom and associated treatment unit and percolation area;

m) All associated site development and site

enabling 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 (9:00 a.m. - 4.00 p.m. Monday to Friday).

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission.

Recent Deaths

THE MIRACLE PRAYER

Dear Sacred Heart of Jesus,

In the past, I have asked for many favours. This time, I ask you This special favour. (Mention Favour)

Take it and place it within Your own broken heart

Where your Father sees it, Then in His Merciful Eyes It will become your favour Not mine. Amen. Say this prayer for 3 times a day for 3 days and favour will be grateful. Promise publication, never known ot fail AOB

O’ Neill, Pat (Paddy) Shannon

Lawal, Ciaran (Bobo) Shannon

McMahon, Emily (Amy) Clarecastle

McMahon, Emily (Amy) Ennis

BROOKS, PAUL Tuamgraney

Cassidy, Paul Labasheeda

GRIFFIN, Eamonn Ardnacrusha

Liddy, Tom Ennis

Liddy, Tom Quin

Flannery, Patrick (Paddy) Ennis

Hassett, Jim (James) Ennis

Maher, Peter Ennis

O’Brien, Claire Ruan

O’Donovan, Fachtna Shannon

O’Donovan, Fachtna Newmarket-on-Fergus

SCHWAGER, Dietrich Feakle

SCHWAGER, Dietrich Tulla

Sexton, John A. Ogonnelloe

Kenny(née O’ Brien), Brenda Shannon

Kildea, John Joe Kilfenora

O’Neill (née Browne), Margaret Kilkee

Lynch, J.B. Kilmaley

Whelan(née Moroney), Christine (Chris) Bodyke

Whelan (née Moroney), Christine (Chris) Tulla

Considine, John (Batty) Shannon

Hickey(née Byrnes), Bridget (Beno) Cratloe

Pender (née King), Kathleen Kilmihil

Stafford, Tommy Shannon

The Clare Echo Quiz

FAMOUS CLARE PEOPLE

1What album did Sharon Shanon release in 2004?

A The Diamond Mountain Sessions

B Liberango

C Out the Gap

2What club did Davy Fitz originally play with?

A Sixmilebridge

B Newmarket-on-Fergus

C Kilkishen

3When did famous percussionist

Dermot Sheedy first pick up the bodhrán?

A 6

8 C 12

4 What year did Emma Barrett win two gold medals in the special Olympics

A 2015 B 2017 C 2019

5The newspaper Michael Cusack co run with Morrison Millar was called?

A The Sunday Sports Journal

B The Celtic Times

C The Sporting Times

6Dancer and performer Oskarina O’Sullivan West End debut was with which musical?

A Too close to the sun

B Thriller Live

C Othello

7Barry Noel Cotter plays which position for the Shamrock Rovers?

A A forward

B A midfielder

C A back

8Singer/songwriter Susan O’Neil is playing alongside who this summer in Dublin?

A Mick Flannery

B Róisín Murphy

C Kian Egan

9What character does Simone Kirby play in the hit T.V. show Peaky Blinders?

A Lizzie Stark

B Linda Shelby

C Irene O’Donnell

10Irish novelist and poet Enda O’Brien won the Irish PEN award in what year?

2004

Quiz by Niamh Kinnane

Spot the Difference

Spot the Difference

Can you spot the difference? Spot the 7 differences. The answers will be revealed in next weeks edition.

Can you spot the difference? Spot the 7 differences. The answers will be revealed in next weeks edition.

What album did Sharon

release in 2004?

Last weeks Answers

Last weeks Answers

. Grip on hurley different colour . GAA missing on jersey (middle) . Sliotar missing . Nike symbol missing on sock . Button missing on helmet (right)

Flag different colour in background

Crest missing on shorts (left) . UnderArmour logo missing on players shorts (background) . Munster logo missing on ref jersey . Adidas logo missing on refs jersey . Sock different colour on player (front) . Post missing in background

Number on player missing

Crest on players shorts missing (front left)

The U12/13 team defeated Tipperary at the weekend but lost out to Cork. The Clare team comprised of Daniel Madden, Cillian Howard, Walter Moroney, Eliah Kenny, Darragh Donovan, James Hoban, Iarla Kelleher and Patrick Burke

St Joseph’s Tulla teachers with Marty Morrissey and the Dr Harty Cup in Tulla Photo by Joe Buckley

(left)

Shanon

WORD SEARCH

The Clare Echo Crossword

Bath

Blanket

Blue

Booties

Bottle

Burp

Chubby

Colic

Cradle

Crawl

Crib

Cry

Cuddle

Cute

Diapers

Dimple

Feed

Girl

Gums

High

Love

Lullaby

Midwife

Milk

Nurse

Pink

Sleep

Smile

Twins

Weight

HOW TO PLAY

Sudoku is a logic puzzle where you have to populate the grid with numbers. A number can appear only once in each row, column and house. Each puzzle can be solved using logic from the given information and requires no guesswork.

1 Perplexed (7) 2 Lean end of a neck of veal or mutton (5) 3 Take out (7) 4 Nose (slang) (6) 5 Miniature variety of a plant or animal (5) 6 Naturally grown (7) 7 Rental

(5)

(7)