The Clare Echo 03/12/20

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DEC 3 2020

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‘WE WANT THE TRUTH’ Ryan family fight to get justice for Micheál

PÁRAIC McMAHON news@clareecho.ie

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CLARE family heartbroken by a tragic death have vowed to continue their fight for justice.

Micheál Ryan who was known to his friends and loved ones as Mick was killed with seven colleagues when a Boeing 737 Max crashed six minutes after take-off from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in March of last year. All 157 people on board were killed.

Since his tragic passing, his family have been fighting to obtain answers from Boeing. Mick’s wife, Naoise

Connolly Ryan is determined for more accountability, “I’m fighting for justice for Mick,” she outlined. She insists that the fight will go on with motivation provided in the form of her two children, Saorlaith and Macdara aged five and two.

Following an eighteen month investigation, a damning final report on the Boeing 737 Max released in October shed some further light into the matter, the opportunity to allow the Ryan’s lawyers and technical experts to examine Boeing

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A special festive Christmas lights trail will take place through Bunratty Castle and Folk Park this December. Santa, Mrs Claus, Santa’s elves, and a host of Christmas characters will be on hand to add some festive atmosphere to the Folk Park’s Christmas trail of lights running from December 4-23

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GERRY Keane and his wife Carmel turned on their Christmas lights recently in support of Cahercalla Hospice. The event took place at 7pm and was attended by the Mayor of Clare Mary Howard and Mary Moloney of Cahercalla Hospice, writes Cian O’Broin.

The official ceremony was due to take place on December 1st but in the interest of health and safety was pushed forward.

Each year, Gerry and Carmel create a light display at their home, in Ashfield Park, on the Gort Road, with proceeds making their way to a different charity of choice.

Gerry informs The Clare Echo that the final

made my mother’s last weeks and days so comfortable and bearable as well as making us feel so much at ease. I’m a great believer in what they do. I do a different charity each year and this year is Cahercalla Community Hospice.”

Donations can be posted via a secure post-box on the gate pier. The display at will be lit up from 5pm to 10pm each night and people are welcome to call and take pictures with their children.

Gerry and Carmel would like to wish everyone a very happy Christmas and are grateful for any donations that go towards Cahercalla Community Hospice this year.

Domestic violence is a ‘life or death’ situation

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display took the better part of a month to perfect, with the help of his wife and family.

Gerry states, “Donations this year will be going towards Cahercalla Community Hospice. With Covid, they had no outdoor fundraising this year at all. I believe it’s a great service and one that’s very close to my own heart.”

Adding that, “On a personal level, I saw my own mother die 10 years ago in Milford Hospice and I saw the care that is provided for people at the end of their life. Unless somebody goes through it and sees it themselves, you just couldn’t explain the service they provide. They

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LARE Haven Services are marking 16 Days of Action on Violence Against Women, hoping to raise awareness and to call for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls.

The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence is an annual international campaign from 25 November, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, until 10 December, Human Rights Day. Clare Haven Manager of Services, Dr Siobhán O’Connor asserts that domestic violence isn’t a matter that happens behind closed doors, it’s not a matter that happens between private family members but a situation of life or death. The purpose of the 16 day campaign is a, “way for society internationally, nationally and locally to focus clearly on the real scourge that is within our society in county Clare and within our communities, of violence against women.”

Since records began in 1996, there have been eight documented instances where women in County Clare were murdered at the hands of a partner, ex-partner or family member. Since the onset of Covid, the number of new and reactivated cases of domestic violence has risen exponentially, Dr. O’ Connor confirms. “There is an increase in the level of abuse and violence since Level

5 restrictions,” she states. Adding, “In normal times, these women would have places of work, library and shops to go to, as social spaces away from the violence. These have been taken away during both lockdowns and it’s time for reflection, consideration and turning attention to these incidents within our society.”

Clare Haven are running a virtual candlelight walk in partnership with Clare County Library, An Garda Sίochάna and artist Emma Houlihan, looking to bring the light to the community. Starting in the Garda Station to Merchant’s Square then out to the Clare Haven Offices at Clare Abbey Roundabout and on to the libraries in Ennistymon, Kilkee, Kirush, Scariff, Killaloe and Shannon where all along a candle or tree will be lit up, signifying that, “the whole county are paying their respects and remembering the lives of the women and children killed due to domestic violence.”

Clare Haven Services will be commemorating the lives of the eight women who died at the hands of domestic violence in Clare, through reflective and informative posts on Facebook or Twitter. Dr. O’ Connor would like to thank the generosity of the Clare people, who haven’t put victims of domestic abuse aside at this time: “We are incredibly grateful for that. There are no donations to small or too big. We have been getting donations all the way through lockdown. They have continued to think of these women through their own loneliness and hardships caused by Covid.”

Clare Haven 24hr hotline: 065-682 2435.

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THURSDAY, DEC 3 2020

Ryan family remain steadfast in their campaign for justice PÁRAIC MCMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

(CONTINUED FROM PAGE ONE)... documents has not been forthcoming, his mother Christine and brother Tiarnán visited the site of the plane crash a week after Micheál’s death. Naoise stated, “This was definitely not an accident. It was not an act of God, or the fault of a pilot. It was the direct result of a series of negligent acts within an air plane manufacturing company”.

“We want the truth and we want accountability, an admission that mistakes were made isn’t enough.

They have to reveal to us what they have discovered since the crashes and to outline exactly the measures they have taken to ensure this doesn’t happen again but these documents have remained secret to us. How can we be sure they are prioritising safety, after all this is an agency that knew after the first

crash that these planes weren’t safe to fly but they kept them in the air,” she commented.

His family in Lahinch were aware of the risks associated with his job given that a humanitarian worker can be at risk of hostages, landmines and compound attacks.

“Never do you imagine you would lose your life on a Boeing plane supposedly designed and engineered by the best in the world far removed from the traumas of war, conflict, neglect and desperation.

Yet Mick and his colleagues were killed on a Boeing Max plane,” Naoise recounted in what she described as “abhorrent”.

“Family meant everything to him. He was my husband and best friend, he was an amazing dad, there was nothing he liked better than spending time with the kids”.

Mick had an ability to cross social and cultural boundaries when it came to the art of conversation, “If you walked into a room and Mick was there then there was usually a group of people gathering around

him laughing”.

Passionate about helping people, Ryan had a talent to do just that, “through engineering he knew he was able to make a difference,” his wife recalled. They worked together for the UN in Sri Lanka and Naoise a qualified engineer was due to start a role with the World Food Life programme prior to March 2019. Some of his

past projects include creating safe ground for Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh in preparation for the monsoon season and assessing the damage to rural roads in Nepal caused by landslides.

Last month, the awarding of the Nobel Peace Prize to the UN World Food Programme was described

by Christine as “a very suitable memorial to Micheál and his col-

l TRAGEDY: Christine and Tiarnán visit the crash site and (inset) Micheál with son Macdara

Photos courtesy of Ryan family

leagues”. Naoise had “mixed feelings”, she was struck by a dreadful sadness but knew her dearest love would have been delighted, “it lifted my spirits knowing in some way his legacy continues”.

Rewinding back to that horrific day last March, Naoise admitted, “My whole world fell around me there and then”. She was up early at 7am with her two children on the Sunday morning and sent a photograph of the kids to Mick with the message ‘good morning Daddy’ but it did not deliver. It was not until she checked her phone at 11am and noticed messages of panic and a missed call from a friend in Rome that she knew something was wrong.

Questions from the Ryan family remain unanswered while their dear Micheál has also been listed as one of three finalists for The Red Cross Humanitarian Award.

We want justice to prevail and to change something in aviation safety so that this doesn’t happen again,” Naoise added.

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THURSDAY, DEC 3 2020

EXCLUSIVE: 100 new jobs on the way for Shannon PÁRAIC MCMAHON

T

paraic@clareecho.ie

HE Clare Echo can exclusively reveal that 100 jobs are to be created in Shannon by the middle of next year.

Galway based and Irish owned medical devices and drug delivery company, Aerogen Ltd is to establish a manufacturing operation in Shannon next year and in the process will create 100 jobs by the middle of 2021.

Hiring for the roles are underway with positions varying from medical device operators to experienced production and quality engineers.

In October of last year, Molex announced it was to cease operations at its facility in Shannon at the end of 2020 which would result in the loss of 500 jobs. The US multinational has been operating in the Shannon Free Zone since 1971 and was one of the largest employers in

the town.

Aerogen had been the main customer of Molex with staff informing The Clare Echo last year that 100 jobs could be kept if the link was maintained. The product line generated a revenue of over €1.5m on a monthly basis.

Molex’s closure and the fact the facility will cease operations at the end of this year prompted the decision by Aerogen to establish a Shannon base which will complement the company’s extensive design and manufacturing operations at their Galway headquarters.

Agreement has been reached that will allow Aerogen access “a significant portion of the current Molex facility complex”.

Dr. Brendan Hogan, Senior Vice President of Engineering & Operations at Aerogen Ltd confirmed to The Clare Echo their plans to create 100 jobs in Shannon by the middle of 2021.

He said that Molex had been a much respected, and long-standing supplier of some of its key medical

components and sub-assemblies.

Minimising the risk of supply of quality drug delivery systems on time to patients worldwide led to the decision to establish the new facility in Shannon, Dr Hogan stated.

“We are utilising our significant investment in plant and equipment there as well as having access to a pool of skilled workers and well

qualified and competent staff in the Midwest region.

“Additional new equipment and tooling is being installed later this year and Aerogen will be making further investments there to continue the growth trajectory of the company as it further expands existing business and develops new markets,” he told The Clare Echo.

lEMPLOYMENT: Aerogen Ltd is to establish a manufacturing operation in Shannon

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Joe Carey apologises for liking ‘misogynistic’ tweet PÁRAIC MCMAHON

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Products from Aerogen are used in 75 countries across the world in emergency departments and neonatal intensive care units. To-date their patented technology has treated more than 11 million patients worldwide. They expect the company’s projected 25 percent growth will continue.

Demand for the company experienced a “significant increase” during the first half of this year, due to COVID-19.

To cater for a rapid increase in output, additional personnel were hired by Aerogen at their Galway HQ to assist in the design and development of products.

“We have partnered with some drug companies in the development of vaccines to deliver the drug using Aerogen’s unique and patented aerosolised drug delivery technology.

“This aerosol inhalation system if successful would be a less invasive delivery method than injection, particularly for younger people,” Dr Hogan said.

A CLARE TD has apologised for liking a "disrespectful" tweet regarding a female colleague.

West Cork TD, Holly Cairns (SD) was described as an "ignorant little girl" in a tweet which criticised the representative for campaigning against the greyhound industry. The tweet was liked by Joe Carey (FG) on Sunday and he issued an apology on Monday morning.

Cairns was accused of spouting "waffle" and her membership of "a minority party that scraped through on the 55th count" was also criticised in the tweet.

She had been campaigning to dilute state funding for greyhound racing.

Deputy Carey in a statement on Monday apologised for liking the tweet which Social Democrats members have called "abusive" and "misogynistic". Dun Laoghaire TD, Jennifer Carroll MacNeill (FG) criticised her party colleague for engaging with the 'inappropriate' tweet but praised him for issuing a swift apology.

"I liked a tweet that was disrespectful to one of my fellow TDs. I should not have done so. It was wrong and I offer my sincere apologies to Holly Cairns," the Clarecastle native stated. Carey has previously told the Dáil that his family have a keen interest and involvement in the sport.

His apology was accepted by the former Green Party member who was previously in hot water over tweets from 2012 and 2013 which claimed the Pope

was a "paedophile ring-leader".

Chairperson of the Clare branch of the Social Democrats, Padraig Nestor said Deputy Carey displayed "misogyny" and ill-judgement by interacting with the tweet. Nestor stated that it highlighted "underlying issues of sexism in Irish politics".

In a statement to The Clare Echo, Nestor who is from Ennistymon commented, "While the apology of Deputy Carey is welcome, this incident highlights yet again that sexism continues to be an issue in Irish politics. By liking a tweet referring to an elected member of Dáil Éireann as an 'ignorant little girl', Deputy Carey undermines the ongoing effort to increase female representation in politics. It shows a lack of respect towards his fellow TD and is part of an underlying culture of misogyny within the Irish political system that all elected representatives must strive to stamp out."

Carey declined to comment further when contacted by The Clare Echo.

lSORRY: Joe Carey TD (FG)

Photo by Joe Buckley

NEWS 7

THURSDAY, DEC 3 2020

Students take over SVP shop for a day CIAN O’BROIN

T

cianobroin@clareecho.ie

RANSITION Year students at Gaelcholáiste an Chláir are running a 24-hour fundraiser in aid of St Vincent de Paul (SVP) in Ennis.

Each year, TY students organise an event in conjunction with a local charity.

Covid-19 has impinged on the traditional sleep-out or collections typically organised by the school, explains TY Co-ordinator Martina McNamara. Adding that, "Poverty is chronic and twenty-four hours, so we said why don't we run the shop for that length of time."

This Friday, December 4th, 16 students from class 4GC will be taking over the store for a 24-hour period. Students will be divided into groups of four, accompanied by teachers.

Each group will assist Shop Manager James Dineen for a six-hour period in the running of the store. Some of the duties will include restocking the shop, sifting through donated goods, cleaning, stacking and pricing items. In addition, students will lay out the shop in adherence to social distancing guidelines, wear masks and ensure that sanitisers are placed effectively throughout the store.

Students will also bring baked goods and chocolate as well as offering tea and a chat to customers at a station within the store.

TY student Joy Hallahan states, "I think there is a very important lesson behind all this. We are doing it for a very good cause, which is poverty. It's something that is very bad all year round. Sometimes, it is very bad at Christmas. It's important to emphasise that it's all year round, not just around the festive times. I think we will definitely learn a lot from working with charities, by seeing how they and their volunteers' work. It's important to build social awareness and look at issues that are going around our community and the whole country as well. I'm really looking forward to it."

This support will help many individuals and families in need, especially as we approach the Christmas season, Martina explains. The link to donate can be found on Gaelcholáiste an Chláir's Instagram, Twitter and Facebook pages.

Martina Mc Namara concludes with, "We would love to make it to €2,000.

Both St Vincent de Paul and us, the 4GC Transition Year class at Gaelcholáiste an Chláir, would very much appreciate your help and support. Any donation is greatly appreciated and also, drop into the shop on the night for our 50 per cent off all stock bonanza from midnight Friday the 4th of December 2020."

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lSTAR STUDENTS: Transition year Gaelcholáiste an Chláir students prepare for their Saint Vincent de Paul shop takeover

Average ambulance response times ‘mean nothing’ A WEST Clare councillor has slammed the NAS and HSE for a failure to provide adequate detail on the response times of ambulances to call outs in the county, writes Páraic McMahon.

At last Tuesday's meeting of the HSE Regional Health Forum West, Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF) sought a detailed breakdown of the individual response times for each ambulance call out within the West Clare Municipal District for 2020.

Acting Chief Ambulance Officer with the National Ambulance Service West, Bill Forbes in a written response stated, "the average response times for ambulance ECHO & DELTA calls for Co. Clare from 1/1/2019 – 18/11/2020 are 15 minutes 56 seconds. To provide any further breakdown could potentially breach GDPR".

"There are two things in my life to stop things being done and that is GDPR and health and safety. I'm not happy with this response. I didn't ask for dates, I don't need to know a particular date something

happened," a frustrated Murphy told the meeting.

He continued, "I received an average response time for Co Clare, anyone who deals with statistics will tell you the average response time is worth nothing, it means nothing to someone living in Lahinch or Kilkee, it's fine if you are two minutes away in Ennis".

According to the Kilkee representatives, coastal communities need to be aware if an ambulance in Kilrush is sent to Limerick, what cover is available. "I don't want to know the details of why the ambulance was called, I want to know the time of the alert and the response time, there isn't an ounce of potential of breach of GDPR. I would appreciate if the questions I asked were answered".

CEO of Saolta Tony Canavan conceded that Cllr Murphy's question "did not ask for specifics that may create difficulty".

Those answers must be found, Murphy insisted.

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THURSDAY, DEC 3 2020

Naturist Michael shares his body positivity message CIAN O’BROIN

A

cianobroin@clareecho.ie

COUNTY Clare-based naturist says there has been a growing interest in naturism amongst Irish people since lockdown earlier this year.

Michael has been living as a naturist in Clare for the last nine years. Originally from Australia, Michael suffered low body self-esteem growing up and has since come to accept himself in all forms.

Now a member of the Irish Naturist Association (INA), Michael hopes to promote an important message of body positivity.

Michael asserts that naturism as a practice is a real equaliser within the community and now, through a natural progression he "feels more comfortable naked than clothed."

Speaking exclusively with The Clare Echo, Michael discusses how he came to embody the naturist lifestyle, what a typical day in the life looks like as well as offering some tips for first timers looking to dip their toes into naturism.

"Growing up in Australia, it's a different culture altogether. Nudity around the house was more common. It wasn't practiced specifically, but there was no worry in jumping out of the shower and going downstairs naked. I had very low self-esteem in school and very low body confidence.

“It wasn't until I left school and started working in a hotel back in Perth, that I met a group that would go to a nude beach. It became a social event to head down to the beach together after work. I tagged along and really enjoyed it. At the time, I was living with my grandfather and it wasn't until I moved out, that I became freer. It became more natural. It's not about being naked 24/7 and getting home to strip off.

It's about being comfortable with yourself," Michael expresses.

The transition towards naturism in Irish society for Michael came quite naturally. "My day looks pretty much like everyone else's," he explains. Heading to work and grocery shopping are all clothed activities. Michael enjoys being naked up until the moment he heads to work and then could strip off once he gets home again, depending on his mood.

"During the summer, I would have my coffee out in the garden naked whilst reading the paper."

Michael references one instance in the summer, where he explained to an elderly couple in their 70s next door that they "may come across the wall next door and see me naked, reading a book" to which they warmly replied, "Whatever you do in your own garden is your business."

Michael, delighted at this acceptance, has recently acknowledged a growing interest in naturism amongst Irish people since lockdown. "People are more willing to try it. They are at home all day. We had nice weather this summer."

Michael continues, maintaining that Ireland is changing due to the younger generation and their extensive European travels and the familiarisation with more liberal cultures where nudity is concerned.

Offering some tips for first timers, he says, "My first tip would be to delay getting dressed after the shower, go make a cup of tea and if you feel comfortable sit down on a towel and relax and drink it.

If you're reading a book, the next time you do it, find a nice spot in the house and read the next few chapters. When you're comfortable, try if in privacy, to step outside and feel the sun. Next, read your book or have a coffee outside. Each time try to go just a bit longer than before. If you don't feel like it, that's

fine at least you tried. If you do like it, try being naked for the day, whilst doing your housework or if working from home, get some work done. It's all about starting off small and building up.

“If you're really liking it, be a bit more adventurous and next time you find yourself at a secluded beach, slip off your bathing suit."

Twitter has provided a medium for Michael to communicate with individuals with similar experiences in the US, UK and throughout Europe. Now a member of the INA, Michael encourages anyone in Ireland interested in practicing naturism to contact the association and come along to one of the community swims or walks.

Weekly swims are organised in six locations throughout the country, including walks through the Wicklow Mountains and over the vast Burren Landscape.

Ultimately, Michael would like to see increased awareness around naturism as a practice, which in recent years has become a legal leisure or lifestyle, provided that you are not eliciting a reaction or sexualising your nudity. Through tentative care and experience, Michael knows the right time to practice nudity, ensuring not to offend or upset people.

Concluding his conversation with The Clare Echo, Michael imparts some of his hopes for the future development of naturism in Ireland: "I would like to see more interaction and awareness. I'm not trying to make people uncomfortable. It's non-sexual and non-exhibitionist.

It would be nice for Ireland to be more liberal with regards to nudity.

A clothing optional beach on the West Coast could attract a lot more tourists and incorporate an international nudist community. It's all about making people comfortable with naturists here in Clare and sharing an important message on body positivity."

lBIRTHDAY SUIT: Michael is encouraging Clare people to try naturism

Absence of Animal Welfare Officer flagged by Council EFFORTS are ongoing to create the position of a Clare Animal Welfare Officer, writes Páraic McMahon.

An appeal was issued by Cllr Mary Howard (FG) at a recent meeting of the Ennis Municipal District for such a position to be established.

She claimed that no such post had existed over the past two years despite instances that would warrant the role. The Ennis representative urged Clare County Council to engage with the Department of Agriculture on the matter.

"I do not believe Clare County Council have ever employed a specific Animal Welfare Officer," senior engineer Cyril Feeney stated. "We are willing to work with Clare

Animal Welfare and the relevant Government Departments to see if such a role can be delivered by the local authority," he added.

Lobbying has been undertaken by Clare Animal Welfare for the role, Cllr Howard confirmed. She detailed that "predominantly there is no officer in counties along the west coast" and instead liaising with An Garda Síochána is expected. She referred to reported incidents surrounding stray horses on the Kilrush Rd and felt having someone in this role would eliminate the confusion as to what happens when the Gardaí are contacted in such events. While accepting the response from Feeney, Cllr Johnny Flynn (FG) seconded the motion.

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Councillor seeks action against Homesavers PÁRAIC MCMAHON

A

paraic@clareecho.ie

N ENNIS councillor has requested that action be taken by Clare County Council against a store which is claimed to have breached planning and development regulations set out by the local authority.

Speaking at Tuesday’s meeting of the Ennis Municipal District, Cllr Johnny Flynn (FG) urged the County Council to “take action regarding planning legislation” following the recent opening of Homesavers at Ballymaley Business Park citing the “impact on convenience retail outlets in the town and environs”.

Clare County Council are in the process of carrying out an investigation into the opening of Homesavers at the beginning of October. Members of Ennis Chamber of Commerce had written a letter of objection to the local authority to query if planning guidelines were contravened. 55 people are employed at the store.

As previously reported by The Clare Echo, a warning notice had been issued to the landlord of the unit, Feenahyona Limited relating to an “unauthorised development” at Ballymaley Business Park. No details were

submitted to the planning authority regarding a change of use for units D and E at Ballymaley Business Park. A letter from the Economic Directorate of the local authority stated that Section 152 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 had been breached with the opening of Homesavers’ first store in Clare.

Last month, the High Court granted an injunction to Waterford City and County Council to prevent the Homesavers retail chain from operating three stores in the county.

l PLANNING: Homesavers opened at Ballymaley Business Park in Ennis recently

Waterford City and County Council sought the injunction claiming the chain is operating the stores without planning permission. This was soon set aside by the High Court less than two weeks later. The matter will be back before the High Court on December 14th.

Addressing Tuesday’s meeting of the Ennis MD, Cllr Flynn referred to a recent briefing on the topic of ‘proper planning and development’ which discussed the matter. He sought an update from the Ennis MD and warned it could set a “devastating” precedent if trading was allowed to continue. “It is very damaging if they are allowed to trade without following proper planning,” he stated.

“Allowing a potentially unauthorised opening would be devastating in the lead up to Christmas for compliant shops in towns and villages who have got proper planning permission and pay rates losing essential turnover needed to keep open in 2021,” Cllr Flynn commented.

Senior executive officer, Leonore O’Neill told the meeting that the planning department will be asked to give elected members a direct update on the status of their report.

“We will pursue with planning,” Mayor of Ennis, Cllr Paul Murphy (FG) added.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, a spokesperson for Homesavers stated they were “confident” the Ennis store is in compliance with all planning regulations.

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KILNAMONA'S Doireann Ní Ghríofa was among the winners at the Irish Book Awards, writes Páraic McMahon.

Doireann scooped the non-fiction book of the year for her prose debut, 'A Ghost In The Throat' at the 2020 An Post Irish Book Awards. A bestseller, the book finds the 18 century poet Eibhlín Dubh Ní Chonaill haunting the life of a contemporary young mother, prompting her to turn detective.

Doireann is also the author of six critically-acclaimed books of poetry, each a deepening exploration of birth, death, desire, and domesticity. Awards for her writing include a Lannan Literary Fellowship (USA), the Ostana Prize (Italy), a Seamus Heaney Fellowship (Queen's University), the Hartnett Poetry Award, and the Rooney Prize for Irish Literature,.

"I cannot believe I won this award," Doireann admitted. She paid tribute to the individuals "helped and heartened" her along the way in writing the book including her publishers Tramp Press "for picking this book out of their slush pile", the "extraordinary booksellers who believed in it" and the readers for taking the story "into their hearts".

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12 NEWS

THURSDAY, NOV 19 2020

COUNCIL’S 2021 BUDGET A BOOST FOR BUSINESS DETAILED ANALYSIS OF BUDGET 2021 TALKING POINTS n Budget provides for income and expenditure of €131m, an increase of €3m over the previous year n Funding for the nine month commercial rates waiver reduced previous projections on Commercial Rates losses by €12.5m n Impact of COVID-19 will affect Council financially “over a period of years” n Particular focus to continue on housing services REVENUE EXPENDITURE 2021 V 2020: l Housing & Building €23m / €20.68m l Road Transport & Safety €33.93m / €33.89 l Water Services €13.40m / €13.01m l Development Management €20.92m / €20.5m l Environmental Services €15.17m / €14.77m l Recreation & Amenity €11.17m / €11.02m l Agriculture, Education, Health & Welfare - €0.74m / €0.78m l Miscellaneous Services €13.07m / €13.38m BUDGET INCOME 2021 V 2020: n Grants & Subsidies - €43,927,000 / €39,366,000 n Goods & Services - €37,426,000 / €35,976,000 n LPT - €7,984,000 / €7,973,000 n Rates - €42,063,000 / €44,715,000 SME 10% SUPPORT SCHEME: l Will replace 2016 Early Payment Incentive Scheme l Single scheme for all small and medium enterprise business in Clare with a commercial rates liability of €10,000 l Grant proposes 10% credit against subsequent commercial rates liability where the customer discharges their rates invoice by direct debit in the year l Can potentially provide rates reduction of 10% to 88% of businesses in Clare LONG TERM VACANT PROPERTY INCENTIVE SCHEME: The grant scheme is a grant of the following n 75% of commercial rates payable in year one up to a maximum of €3,750 n 50% of commercial rates payable in year two up to a maximum of €2,500 n 25% of commercial rates payable in year three up to a maximum of €1,250 GENERAL MUNICIPAL ALLOCATION (STAYS AT €1.27M): l Ennis MD - €318,250 l West Clare MD - €409,179 l Killaloe MD - €227,321 l Shannon MD €318,250 HOUSING: n Council has a stock of over 2,630 social housing units n €10m loan approved by Council in 2017 is to be drawn down in 2021 n Budget is static for Traveller accommodation (funding to be sought for

provision of Traveller Liaison Officer n Projections for rental income from Council housing stock at a conservative estimate of €6.7m n Budget requirement for homeless services has increased to provide for the 10% own resource provision for homeless services, estimated expenditure of €3,112,785 RECREATION & AMENITY: l Operation of library and archival service listed with spend of €5m l €2.3m for operation of outdoor leisure area operations and €1.8m for indoor leisure facilities operations l Total of €1.4m for operation of Arts Programme ROADS: n Funding for maintenance and improvement works on Clare’s motorway and national primary and secondary road network is provided by Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), 2020 allocation was €2.93m n Works on non national roads completed from Department of Transport funding which was €24.47m in 2020, similar amount expected for 2021 n Maintenance and improvement of local roads calculated at expenditure of €19.7m

N EXPENDITURE of €131m is included in Clare County Council’s revenue budget which puts a priority on local SMEs, housing, town enhancement plans and rural regeneration while future capital projects such as the West Clare Greenway, Blake’s Corner and the Killaloe Bypass are identified for progression.

Councillors approved the budget at a special sitting in glór on Friday. The budget has an increase of €3m with a projected capital expenditure of €393m over three years.

Housing spend will be increased by €2.3m. This includes an additional €300k towards expenditure associated with the reletting of vacant stock, the additional provision of €134k for the establishment of a tenancy enforcement unit and a further €638k for homeless services.

To continue support of businesses into 2021, the Early Payment Incentive Scheme will be replaced with a single scheme for all Small and Medium enterprise businesses in the county. The proposed grant will provide for a 10% credit against the subsequent year commercial rates liability where the customer discharges their rates invoice

tunities. A streetscape enhancement plan is being compiled for Corofin assessing the structures belonging to the National Parks and Wildlife Services in the village, it will be advanced to completion in 2021. Efforts to identify funding opportunities to deliver elements of the Cappa Pier Enhancement Strategy will also receive focus.

Its capital programme is proposing a spend of over €300m, much of which will be contingent on Government funding.

Projects included in this bracket are the West Clare Railway Greenway, phase two of the Limerick Northern Distributor Road, CFRAMS flood relief which caters for six schemes, Doolin Pier, Blake’s Corner, Killaloe Bypass, the Claureen local infrastructure housing activation fund and the N19 Shannon Airport access road. It is planned to resume building the Library in early 2021.

Numerous strategies including the South Clare/University of Limerick Economic Strategic Development Zone, Shannon Estuary Integrated Framework Plan, Ennis 2040 Spatial and Economic Strategy and the Shannon Masterplan remain ongoing within the Economic Directorate.

Chief Executive of the local authority, Pat Dowling recalled that his address to last year’s budget included sentiments of confidence and expansion. “Out determination is more important now than ever, our resolve has not waned or faltered,” he stated.

COVID-19 has had a “deep and painful”

by direct debit in the year. It will potentially provide a 10% rates reduction to 88% of businesses in Clare. Commercial rates will not be interfered with in the coming year.

Re-occupation of previously occupied premises that are now vacant is encouraged under the Long Term Vacant Property Incentive scheme which will continue next year. A 75% rebate in year one up to a maximum of €3,750 is available, it falls to 50% in year two up to a maximum of €2,500 and hits 25% in year three for a maximum of €1,250. The scheme will be promoted by the local authority in January.

Completion of the Ennistymon town enhancement plan will occur in 2021, it looks at the feasibility of the Blake and Linnane buildings following the new bridge construction together with public realm oppor-

toll on society and the economy, he flagged, “none of us can afford to adopt a Trump like approach to the realities in front of our eyes.

Clare County Council must adjust, adapt and deliver. Our services will be maintained as much as possible”.

A focus on continued support businesses is evident in the Budget, Head of Finance Noeleen Fitzgerald maintained with a new grant for SME businesses. Nine of ten properties across the county will qualify for this, she stated as she acknowledged the difficulty endured by many throughout 2020.

An enhancement of the community support scheme is included which will provide more support specifically for playground committees. Noeleen flagged that an incentive will be introduced regarding property occupation in towns and villages.

PÁRAIC MCMAHON

A

paraic@clareecho.ie

WATER: l Annual services plan for 2021 yet to be agreed l Costs estimated for 2021; water supply (€6.4m), waste water treatment (€3.3m), administration of group and private installations (€2m) l Income of €10m expected for water supply ENVIRONMENT: n Cost of servicing network of 50 full-time and 4 seasonal bring banks both within recycling centres and stand alone bottle banks to be maintained n Income from scrap metal decreased slightly in 2020 n €18,000 provided by Council for Greener Clare programme which supported 19 locally led waste prevention projects n Annual waste enforcement grant for Clare County Council has been reduced by the Department of the Environment, Climate & Communications from €405k to €221k l Street cleaning costs calculated to reach €2m l Budget includes €5m for operation of fire services.

CENTRAL MANAGEMENT: l Area office overheads of €2.2m, corporate affairs overheads of €2.7m, corporate buildings overheads of €2.2m l €2.2m for human resources l Expenditure of €1.6m allocated for IT services l Pension and lump sum overhead of €7.9m forecast

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16 NEWS

THURSDAY, DEC 3 2020

County Development Plan ‘a chance to rescue rural Ireland from the grave’ PÁRAIC MCMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

ELECTED representatives in North and West Clare have stressed the need for extensive engagement before the adaptation of a new County Development Plan to reverse the ‘slow death’ being experienced by towns and villages in Clare.

A County Development Plan is a document that guides the future growth and development of a county. These are created based on the regional strategies and guidelines developed by the Irish Government. Preparation of the Clare County Development Plan 2022-2028 commenced on 18th September this year.

“Specific engagement” on “specific issues” is needed between the West Clare Municipal District and its elected representatives to influence the thinking of the document, Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) believed. “In light of dereliction issues and many of our towns and villages dying slowly a very significant focus and resource allocation to reverse is necessary, focussed engagement in context of the county development plan is a critical opportunity for this to begin,” he stated in a proposal to November meeting of the MD. Submissions will be accepted by the public, elected representatives and the local authority for the Development Plan, acting senior planner Helen Quinn informed.

Five workshops between the planning authority and elected mem-

bers have already taken place, she confirmed with additional workshops scheduled for February “where the elected members across the county will have an opportunity to input into the development of key policies on issues such as addressing dereliction in our towns and villages”.

Councillors must “think deeply” about the plan, Cllr Garrihy stated. “As a State we don’t do the public engagement well. We need to look at the reality on the ground of communities, towns and villages going into dereliction, can we provide better facilities and have engagement with the people,” the Cathaoirleach of the West Clare MD added. “It is possibly going to define the future of our area going forward. Ask stupid questions but at least ask them now”.

As he seconded the motion, Cllr PJ Kelly (FF) had a smile on his face as he commented, “I am delighted to hear your contribution and many of the new councillors since they took over the position, they appear to have a new philosophy, it is pity it was missing when we adopted the last County Development Plan”.

An opportunity exists to have an input “line by line,” Cllr Kelly maintained. “I doubt if there is any County Development Plan in the whole of Ireland that is as discriminating. Freedom of expression is gone, I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again we live in North Munster not North Korea. Socially and economically rural Ireland has been put to grave, we have to intervene,” the Lissycasey representative said.

Securing public engagement represents “a huge challenge,” Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) felt. “We spent nights here trying to get the County Development Plan done up until 7 or 9pm, we zoned lands for communities. We missed a larger policy the last time, it wasn’t until after it was signed that we realised it, we were too focused on communities,” he reflected. “We put out a draft, we got to evaluate it and make some changes, the communities were allowed to make changes to the draft, 100s of letters can be sent by the community and they don’t get acknowledgement”.

His comments were rebuked by Cllr Susan Crawford (GP), “Any County Development Plan has to echo the people of the county, if it doesn’t we’re doing something seriously wrong. If we can’t reach out to people now in a pandemic during Level 5, we might as well throw our hats at it. It has to represent the voices of the people of the county. Of course we must acknowledge the input of people.

We have to drive this on and make it meaningful for our communities. As a county we need to drive connectivity”. “Hear hear,” Cllr Kelly said in reaction to her contribution.

An alternative way to increase public engagement is within touching distance, Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF) told the meeting.

He requested the acting senior planner to do a Zoom call with the people of Doonbeg which saw close to 30 people log on and the submission of dozens of questions to the planning office from the community.

SANTA’S HELPER TURNS ON LIGHTS

l HO HO HO: Daithi Lawless and his father Liam meet Santa Claus after Daithi switched on the Christmas lights at University Hospital Limerick

Photo by Brian Arthur

Ennis psychologist wins prestigious award CIAN O’BROIN

E

cianobroin@clareecho.ie

NNIS resident Dr. Suzanne Parkinson has been presented with the 2020 Psychological Society Award for Contribution to Professional Practice Psychology.

The prestigious award is in recognition of the development of the 'My Learner ID' series, which was deemed by the Society to represent a distinguished and significant contribution to professional practice psychology.

Dr. Parkinson began her career as a primary school teacher and worked in schools in Dublin for two years before coming to Co. Clare to play the harp in Bunratty, Knappogue and Dunguaire Castles.

Later on, she completed an M.Sc. in Developmental and Educational Psychology in Queen's University and a professional doctorate in educational psychology.

Following this, she took up her current position in Mary Immaculate College, heading the development of the Bachelor in Education and Psychology undergraduate degree and postgraduate professional training in psychology.

Dr. Parkinson has worked in twenty-eight schools from Barefield through to St. Munchin's in Limerick and was the first educational psychologist appointed to county Clare.

My Learner ID is all about learner empowerment and equipping children with the language, skills and strategies for learning to be a learner.

Learner Identity as a construct is defined as the process of becoming and being a learner. The series is for use in primary schools and offers a unique, child-centred and innovative framework to track and support children becoming and being learners.

Touching on sentiment, Suzanne states, "I have had parents coming up to me at funerals and in shopping centres thanking me for the contribution it has made to their lives.

"Having introduced My Learner ID to twenty-five schools in 2017 at a pilot level, the series is now in use in over one hundred schools nationally and in international schools.

I am indebted to the school leaders around the country but particularly in County Clare for sharing my vision for My Learner ID and embracing the series in busy, overloaded and ever competing school systems."

Suzanne expresses gratitude to the early pioneers - Barefield NS, Clarecastle NS, Holy Family SNS, Knockanean NS, Newmarket-on-Fergus NS, and Gaelscoil Mhichíl Chíosóg.

School leaders and teachers in these schools supported the very early trialling of the series and offered meaningful feedback that shaped the refinement and the further development of My Learner ID. Suzanne is also grateful to Pat Hanrahan and Ray Mc Inerney in

the Clare Education Centre, who offered, "Support on countless occasions and in so many ways."

My Learner ID works by offering a record book for each child from preschool to sixth class.

The record book is owned by the child and invites customisation of learning strategies by each child.

Open-ended assessment techniques are used throughout, and the record books are designed, using process art, to invite full ownership by the child.

Each class level is accompanied with Teacher Guides, Implementation Videos, Parent and Child Information Videos and online teacher training. To date the series is developed from first to sixth class and it is also available in Irish as 'Mise mar Fhoghlaimeoir'.

Suzanne notes that the use of the series in schools speaks for itself. The response by children and parents has been overwhelming which has prompted other schools to introduce the programme.

She was delighted when EDCO Publishers took on the programme in 2019 and Aladdin, a software database for schools, embedded My Learner ID in their system so that schools could maintain a yearly record of each learner's preferred strategies for learning.

"It's great to feel that the loudest supporter of My Learner ID is the key stakeholder - the child. I have had numerous conversations with children around the country and with parents and children and the message always emphasises the response of the child to My LID they love it.

“Too frequently theoretical concepts are difficult to translate into actual practice. I think My Learner ID is reasonably successful in this regard and the series offers a practical and tangible framework for children, parents and teachers."

On the future of the project, Suzanne states, "I am hoping to complete the My Learner ID series at preschool level and at junior and senior infant level.

“Thereafter, I have been asked to consider developing the concept at a non-verbal level and that no doubt will represent a challenge."

l EXPERT: Ennis psychologist Dr Suzanne Parkinson

NEWS 17

THURSDAY, DEC 3 2020

Tierney’s raise over €7,000 in Movember campaign PÁRAIC MCMAHON

A

paraic@clareecho.ie

N ENNIS company has raised over €7,000 for Movember.

Tierney's Office Automation, a leading IT provider within the hospitality sector in Ireland and the UK have lifted morale while also raising awareness of prostate cancer through its fundraising efforts in the month of November which has brought in over €7,500.

Remote working is now the practice for their 44 employees instead of travelling to their offices at the Quin Rd Industrial Estate in Ennis. By encouraging male members of staff to grow a moustache they reignited the office camaraderie and in the process benefited a worthy cause.

Members of staff would annually grow a moustache for Movember but Managing Director Andy Tierney explained that this year they put a strong emphasis on the campaign to try keep a unity among their employees.

Since 1982, Andy has had a beard but he shaved it for the first time this year to be-

gin growing the moustache having contemplated the idea over recent years following the example set by Paudie Carmody and Damien Howe. The difference between beard and moustache was not one he was overly fond of, "I felt my face was very cold when I was out walking. The first thing I'm doing tomorrow morning is to get rid of the moustache, I'll have two days' stubble tomorrow so I'm starting back on the beard and will hopefully have the beard in time for Christmas".

His own experience of prostate cancer and that of a close friend prompted him to get involved. "I had my own prostate removed in 2007, I've made a full recovery and I thought about it again this year because a good friend of mine had his removed earlier this year.

“Every man would eventually get prostate cancer if they lived long enough. The sad thing about it is that if it is looked after it is the most curable of all the cancers a man can get but you have to look after yourself.

This charity is close to my heart," he told The Clare Echo.

Fortunately Andy's diagnosis was detected early which allowed him to make a swift recovery 13 years ago. He welcomed the im-

Eat well and keep active We’re having quite a year, and we all need a little help to get us through.

Starting with a plan to do one small thing that will keep you well is a great way to look after your mental health and wellbeing.

The ‘Keep Well’ campaign is aimed at showing people of all ages how we can mind our own physical and mental health and wellbeing by adding healthy and helpful habits to our daily and weekly routines.

Eating well By nourishing our bodies and minds, we can develop a better connection between the food we eat and how we feel and positively impact our physical and mental wellbeing.

Bord Bia will provide information and resources to support healthy eating this winter. Safefood will implement the next phase of its START campaign, focusing on making the most of family time and adding healthy habits.

In addition, the network of libraries around the country will facilitate a major initiative with ‘Grow It Yourself’ in early 2021, to support more people to grow their own food – in whatever small way they can – helping to forge greater connections between growing food and eating well and develop community networks.

Keeping active Keeping active and being outdoors, even during the winter, is important to help physical and mental health and wellbeing. Sport Ireland is leading a series of initiatives that will support people to stay active in their own local areas throughout the winter. In addition, sporting organisations and clubs are invited to develop ways to support local communities.

provements in the research on the cancer over the intervening years, "If I was diagnosed now with the same level I wouldn't have had to have my prostate removed because there is better treatments now and that all is because of the research that is going on. It is good that other people will be

lMO BROS: The Tierney’s crew

able to benefit from what we are doing". It is why he is very pleased with their efforts as he knows what additional research can do.

Female members of staff also played their part, particularly Renae Downes on the organisation side of things. Andy is particularly grateful for the donations given the tough economic year that 2020 has been. "We weren't expecting a lot. We're very lucky that we are all working and we're all getting paid.

A lot of our businesses in the hospitality industry are decimated, there is a lot of them unemployed, there was an awful lot of five or ten euros from people who didn't have five or ten euro this year. We're a great country for raising money".

Reflecting on their efforts, the Ennis man appealed to men to check their prostate once a year. "It was a good exercise, we're really delighted with what we have raised and we know it is going to a very good cause, hopefully all men will look after themselves.

“I know from past experience, once you are over forty get your prostate checked, it is a very simple blood test and get it checked once a year, the earlier it is detected especially with today's technology, the less invasive it is going to be and it is the most curable of all cancers if it is caught on time".

Find ideas on what you can do and what’s available in your local community at

clarecoco.ie/together Walking is one of the easiest, most accessible forms of physical activity – you can do it almost any time in almost any location.

A brisk walk is many people’s idea of the ideal form of physical activity and is a great away of hitting your target of 30 minutes of physical activity five days a week. It can be as simple as walking to the shops and back rather than driving, or going for a stroll in the local park or surrounding countryside.

Find more ideas at clarecoco.ie/together

Community Response Helpline A helpline is available to respond to the needs of vulnerable members of our community.

If you need practical supports, like your shopping delivered, or you just need someone to talk to you, the Clare Covid-19 Community Response Helpline is here for you.

Call Freephone 1800 20 36 00 or email clarecommunityresponse@clarecoco.ie

Follow Clare County Council on social media

18 NEWS

Timmie gets men talking in new podcast PÁRAIC MCMAHON

S

paraic@clareecho.ie

ELF-AWARENESS was key for an Ennis man removing himself from a “toxic” lifestyle and returning to a steady path, the latest destination on this journey has resulted in him setting up a podcast.

Presenting a podcast has been an aspiration for Timmie Murphy for over two years. The professional model was keen to have an engaging format that included his love for interacting with people which resulted in the creation of ‘This Man’s World’.

So far, Clare footballer Podge Collins, Love Island USA contestant Cormac Murphy and former lead dancer with Riverdance and Lord of the Dance, Michael Donnellan, all of whom are from Co Clare have appeared on the podcast. Their conversations have focused on Podge’s love for his native country and charity work, Cormac’s reaction to reaching his lowest ebb and Michael adjusting to life after dancing and learning to live in the moment.

Frequently, Timmie is contacted by men on social media for advice and this also led to his decision to focus specifically on males for the podcast. “I wanted to give men and in particular men in the West of Ireland a platform, I grew up in a house of all brothers and all my extended family are men, I have only like three female cousins and I get on fairly well with men, I love the craic, the humour and the banter with them. I found the past couple

of years on my social media that I get a lot of men reaching out to me and sending private messages on Instagram looking for advice on confidence, self-esteem, skincare and fashion, I was constantly getting messages from men asking for my advice on stuff even relationships.

“That went off in my head and I said I would love to get men to sit down and talk on the podcast about everyday life. I felt there was a gap in the market, it was all women talking to women or women talking about men or if it was men talking with men about sport, I didn’t find it anywhere. I found that a lot of men were coming to me asking for advice so I wanted to give guys a platform and get them talking,” he explained.

In the first episode of ‘This Man’s World’, the past pupil of St Flannan’s College flew solo and gave an unscripted account of his own life dealing with the separation of his parents at an early age, their subsequent reunion and break-up, realising he was a gay man, drowning in the party scene of Dublin, coping with heartbreak and putting his life on a solid footing.

Providing a raw and honest insight into his own life was essential, he felt as it broke down the perception people may have of him from social media.

“I did have reservations because you are really putting yourself out there and unless you are yourself it’s not going to work. When I do anything that scares me it always works, feel the fear and do it anyway was very much the case”.

While living in Dublin, loneliness drew Timmie to “the party scene” where consumption of alco-

hol was a prominent feature of his life. “It was every single weekend but it was just all that I had. I was drinking because I was lonely, I was living on my own, I was working hard during the week so I said I deserved a drink at the weekend and when you live on your own you could get that one bottle of wine and drink it all, sometimes it would go to two bottles of wine.

“All of Sunday was gone because you were hungover, it is very easy to get sucked into that. I never went to meetings or AA, I never said I am this because I never felt I needed to, there was a few moments down through the years where I had to talk to my father because I was caught in a cycle but it never went past because I had the self-awareness to stop but you don’t realise it at the time, it’s not until I get to my late thirties and I look back that I realise it was really toxic”.

One instance in particular saw him suffer a panic attack as a night of drinking at home followed by one hour’s sleep and a day’s work took its toll as he experienced a severe tightening of his chest.

“It wasn’t something I was having constantly but it was a lowpoint and a breaking point when I knew something wasn’t right, nothing like that ever happened me after that, I had the self-awareness to go that happened and it shouldn’t have so something needed to change.

Other people that suffer from panic attacks don’t have that self-awareness and they can constantly have panic attacks, I put so much pressure on myself and it was the catalyst, I knew that things had to change”.

At this time, many of his friends were settling down, getting mar-

THURSDAY, DEC 3 2020

lMENTAL HEALTH: Podcaster and professional model Timmie Murphy

ried and having children but Timmie found himself in damaging relationships. “A lot of my past relationships that didn’t work which brought me to a point of saying no more heartache and deciding to just work on myself and be happy within myself. I took the time to be single, some of us feel we have to have another person when we just don’t. At that point in my life I was just looking for another person to be with me and be complete, I needed that time away to find a happiness within myself ”.

Company in the form of friends like Hazel McMahon, Eva Stembridge and Jamie O’Toole coupled with meditation, healthy eating,

fitness and the outdoors has Timmie back on solid ground. “I do a lot of nice things now as opposed to going out and getting pissed every weekend. Spending time with good friends and family, doing the podcast and stuff that doesn’t revolve around a social scene, in the past I was sucked into the party scene and if you took that away from me, I was wondering who I was”.

Now assigned to Aspire Presenting Ltd, Timmie has been involved in television presenting which has included work in the UK. The podcast is his current focus and a project which he is inspired by but is also doing the same for its over one thousand listeners.

Path to recovery for Cliffs of Moher underway as €500,000 is invested in 2 kilometre coastal walk PÁRAIC MCMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

€500K HAS been invested to repair a 2km coastal walk adjacent to the visitor centre at The Cliffs of Moher (pictured right) while a path to recovery for the world renown tourist attraction is underway.

A new model of funding to operate the coastal walk is required, a recent board meeting of the Cliffs of Moher Centre Ltd heard. The reasons as outlined for such a view according to Director of Rural Development with Clare County Council, Leonard Cleary is "due to the numbers of visitors overflowing from the visitor centre onto the

2km stretch".

To facilitate such a model, "considerable discussions" must take place with a number of organisations, agencies, landowners and the local community. He flagged that the walk "differs substantially from local walking trails" in outlining why an alternative model was needed.

At the November meeting of the West Clare Municipal District, Cllr Shane Talty (FF) sought an update on the works conducted to upgrade the stretch and appealed for a regular programme of maintenance along the route. 2020 visitor numbers have been "impacted in a major way", Cleary noted. Last year, the Cliffs of Moher welcomed 1.6m visitors. He confirmed, "a path to recovery is planned".

Including surveys, design and construction, the Council has spent €500,000 "on a

once-off basis" into the repair of the coastal walk, Cleary stated. Plans are in motion to implement a regular programme of maintenance.

"Lack of maintenance was a problem," Talty admitted. He added, "It has to be a key project of tourism and for locals going further. The concept here deserves to be applauded, a nationally important walk with communities on either side capable of benefiting".

Keeping the lines of communication with the Clare Local Development Company is important, Cllr Joe Killeen (FF) felt. He suggested a round walk would be beneficial if extending the 2km stretch. "Facilities need to be top class," the former primary school principal stated.

Cathaoirleach of the West Clare Municipal District, Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) commented,

"The views and experience out there are second to none. I was a little underwhelmed by the kilometre but it's a start, the connectivity with Doolin and Liscannor will complete the picture. The objective has to be what is best for the county and the region, that is connectivity and it will define the future of our county. It is great to see a start being made, connectivity has to be the outcome".

NEWS 19

THURSDAY, DEC 3 2020

Remember those who can’t make it home this Christmas CIAN O’BROIN

T

cianobroin@clareecho.ie

HE Lions Club of Ennis is running its annual Remembrance Tree Fundraiser in the market in Ennis, with all proceeds going towards Cahercalla Hospice.

For the last decade, volunteers within the Lions Club of Ennis have teamed up with the Municipal District by placing yellow strings and ribbons of remembrance on the Christmas tree in the market. This year, the Remembrance Tree will have a three-pronged approach, explains Michael Neylon, who has volunteered with The Lions Club for over 40 years: “We are just after coming out of November, the month of remembering those who have faithfully departed but we are also pushing that people will remember those that are unable to make it home this year for Christmas. Also, we are trying to get the message across

for those that might be away, that can’t get home, that they may like to leave a message on the Christmas tree as well.”

This year, volunteers within The Lions Club will be missing that contact with the public. Normally, a hut is placed outside the Post Office for the three weeks leading up to Christmas, Michael explains.

Volunteers then man this hut for two-hour stints, taking donations and personalised messages that are placed on the Remembrance Tree.

“The majority of our sales are through footfall and this will be sorely missed,” Michael concedes.

Adding that, “Often people will come along, write their message and tell you a story of someone close to them that died and how they miss them.

“It’s a real pressure release valve for people that are missing a loved one. Often tears are shed at the hut.

This engagement will be lost this year.”

As an alternative, The Lions Club of Ennis have established an iDonate page, setting a target of €10,000.

All of the proceeds will go towards Cahercalla Hospice in what Michael terms as, “A very different year for all fundraising activities.”

Last year, the Remembrance Tree helped raise €13,000 for Cahercalla Hospice.

The adjustment to the target this year factors in the lack of footfall and the uncertainty around the physical presence of Lions volunteers within the Market Area.

A minimum contribution of €5 must be met on the iDonate facility online. Here individuals can leave their special personalised message for loved ones who have departed and for those who are unable to make it home for Christmas this year.

From here, it will be transferred onto a yellow ribbon, by Lions volunteers, and attached to the tree as in previous years.

Michael and The Lions Club of Ennis encourage anyone who wants to remember a loved one or contribute towards Cahercalla Hospice, to leave a donation which can be accessed through the QR code (inset right).

Illegal encampment departs Ennistymon Council offices PÁRAIC MCMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

AN ILLEGAL encampment was set up on Clare County Council offices in Ennistymon for the first time, earlier this week.

Two caravans took up residence in the public car park at Clare County Council’s Ennistymon offices on Tuesday morning of last week. Associated vehicles including a van belonging to the family were also left on the grounds of the local authority.

By Friday, the family had moved on to an alternative location following daily engagement with the local authority.

“The matter of illegal trespass on public lands was dealt with by the Courts Service and An Garda Síochána. As this is a car park and not a caravan park, this was an area with moving vehicles and no sanitary services. It was not suitable for a family as a place of residence. Those involved in the illegal encampment gave an undertaking to the Court to depart and did,” a spokesperson for

Clare County Council told The Clare Echo.

The Clare Echo understands that the family who are living in accommodation owned by the local authority have requested a transfer on the grounds of safety. No reports have been lodged with An Garda Síochána on the matter.

Clare County Council has defended the level of support it provides for the Traveller community on areas such as housing need. “The Council is responsible for Housing functions and is satisfied that this service is undertaken to the highest standard. All

members of society are entitled to access this service, including the Travelling community. In this case, the occupants of the illegal encampment have a house. Other statutory agencies and NGO organisation have responsibility for providing support for other functions,” the spokesperson added.

Home ownership by Travellers while increasing is at 20%, this compares to 67.6% of the general population who own their own homes. 65.6% of Traveller families rent from a Local Authority with the 2016 Census indicating a decrease in Traveller households renting from a private landlord.

lTRESPASSING: The encampment outside the Ennistymon Council office

lREFLECTION: The Ennis Lions Club memorial tree

SCAN THE QR CODE TO ACCESS THE LIONS CLUB IDONATE PAGE

Dáire and Sean take on marathon in aid of Sláinte an Chláir CIAN O’BROIN

cianobroin@clareecho.ie

KILMALEY men Dáire Keane and Sean Ryan are running a marathon on December 6th in aid of Sláinte an Chláir.

The pair, who both hurl for Kilmaley's Senior team, had always wanted to do a marathon together and were originally aiming for the Dublin City Marathon.

With fear that the lockdown wouldn't be over, Dáire and Sean mapped out a local route within a 5km radius of their homes.

The route stretches around Kilmaley, Inagh, Kilnamona, to Ennis and back. This will be Dáire's first marathon and one of many for Sean, who completed several during his time with the armed forces.

The pair have been training consistently over the last eight weeks, Dáire tells, starting off with distance runs stretching from 7 to 10km and gradually extending this week on week.

On the decision to raise money for cancer patients in Clare, Daire states, "Sláinte an Chláir is something we had both helped out before

with other fundraisers. We thought this would be a good cause to support.

“We haven't been affected directly by cancer as such, but we all have friends or neighbours who have either directly or indirectly been affected. It's a good local cause."

Donations can be made via their Go Fund Me page entitled, 'Daire & Seans Marathon for Sláinte an Chláir.'

The first target of €1,500 has already been passed and Dáire is optimistic that the €3,000 mark can be reached, admitting that, "With an extra push here and there, we might even get beyond that."

Adding that, "During Covid, everyone is having a hard time. People that are affected by cancer, their burden isn't going to change.

“It's there all the time, especially since some of the focus has been taken off their treatment and care.

I think everyone should take some time to think about this."

SCAN THE QR CODE TO DONATE

20 NEWS

THURSDAY, DEC 3 2020

Shannon Group brief Council on Free Zone progress PĂ RAIC MCMAHON

A

paraic@clareecho.ie

S WORK nears completion on new building developments at Shannon Free Zone, Shannon Group took the opportunity to show Clare County Council Chief Executive, Pat Dowling, and members of his team their progress.

Shannon Group’s latest investment strategy aims to have delivered over 150,000 sq ft by the end of this year to provide new buildings for FDI and indigenous companies, resulting in new jobs for the area.

A total of â‚Ź66m has been invested since 2014 in over one million sq ft of new property developments.Latest projects were shown to the local authority including a 148,000 sq ft development comprising three separate buildings, two of which have been committed to MeiraGTx Holdings plc,

a gene therapy company, for a multi-million euro facility which will be used for the manufacture of viral vectors for gene therapies.

The development is expected to deliver 100 highly skilled jobs demonstrating the Midwest’s and Ireland’s reputation as a key location for the next generation of biopharmaceutical manufacturers.

CEO of Shannon Group, Mary Considine stated that they have a very close working relationship with Clare County Council. “We are already working on our next pipeline of projects. Our strategy includes ambitious plans for the next phase of development at the Shannon Free Zone which will include the construction of new advanced technology manufacturing units, warehousing, flexible industrial space and we have submitted a planning application for a new office block at the main entrance to the Zone�.

Repeated requests have been made by Clare County Council to have representation on the board of Shannon Group.

lINVESTMENT: (L-R): Gerry Fitzmaurice Shannon Commercial Properties, Jason Murphy Clare County Council, Pat Dowling Chief Executive of Clare County Council, Mary Considine CEO Shannon Group, Ray O’Driscoll Shannon Group and Gerry Dillon Managing Director, Shannon Commercial Properties Photo by Arthur Ellis

Lions Club to hold food appeal at Skycourt Centre PĂ RAIC MCMAHON paraic@clareecho.ie

SHANNON Lions Club will be holding a food appeal next Friday and Saturday as they aim to help people in need this Christmas.

Up to eight volunteers will be completing two hour shifts for the Shannon Lions Club in their annual food appeal.

They will be located outside Dunnes Stores in the SkyCourt Shopping Centre on Friday December

11th and Saturday December 12th for a period of ten to twelve hours.

Appeals of recent years have been "very successful," according to Tony Walsh of the Shannon Lions Club who thanked the people of the area for their ongoing support.

He explained that all collected items will be transformed into hampers that will be distributed to people in Shannon, Sixmilebridge and Newmarket-on-Fergus that are in need.

Suitable food items will be accepted by the volunteers as part of the appeal. Cash donations have also been issued as part of their efforts.

SHANNON COMMUNITY SURVEY LOCAL volunteers from across Shannon have come together to create a development plan for the town and they want to hear what the people of Shannon think.

What do you like about living and/or working here? What don’t you like? How might life be improved? “We’re asking you to think about the questions in a short survey and to give us your thoughts.

What short term, medium term and long-term projects would make a big difference to the quality of life for everybody in Shannon?

We encourage all residents, of all ages, to participate and we ask you to help neighbours and friends who

might have difficulty completing the questionnaire. It should take you no longer than 7-10 minutes to complete.

The survey is available at: https://www. surveymonkey.com/r/ ShannonConsultation You can also access it through the Love Shannon Facebook page, Instagram and their website www. loveshannon.ie If you would prefer to complete a paper version of the survey, copies are available in the XL Shop in Drumgeely, the XL Shop in De Lacey Park, Centra in Ballycasey, the Post Office and Shannon Garda Station. Completed paper surveys can be returned to secure boxes at those locations.

Â

TAKE AWAY COCKTAILS

Each Cocktail Bottle Serves 4

The deadline for completing the survey is 6pm on Friday, December 18th.

Your response will be confidential and we will hold local discussions on the issues identified to formulate a community development plan for our town.

We want to hear from everyone, all age groups.

We particularly want to hear from young people. This is your chance to get involved in planning for the future of our town.

Thank you, Members of the Voluntary Planning Group This initiative is supported by the Clare LEADER Programme under the management of Clare Local Development Company.

COLUMNIST 21

THURSDAY, DEC 3 2020

Eoin Neylon With

An inside look at Clare’s political spectrum

With

Misinformation wars

With

The Clare Echo’s farming columnist Joe Melody visited Pyne’s fourth generation potato farm in Kilrush this week

D

IVERSITY! It’s a word that has a ring to it, it sounds rather noble but in the age of diversity training in large companies we seem to be moving away from diversity in farming.

During the Celtic Tiger, the Farmers Journal carried a series on diversification ideas everything from ostriches to pumpkin growing. There is always an era and this was before the milk quota abolition era where the narrative was set that you were either going broke fattening cattle or getting rich producing milk, of course the truth is usually somewhere in the middle. If you’re farming in Clare you’d be led to believe the choice is binary either dry stock or dairying. There are problems with this type of vision though, it doesn’t allow for divergence of interest as well as appetite for risk.

I’m no potato connoisseur but recently I enjoyed some of the tastiest not so humble spuds. Surely these were a product of the fertile plains of Wexford or perhaps the loamy soils of north Co. Dublin? No. These potatoes were produced in Kilrush by the Pyne family, being curious I arranged a farm visit to see this thriving farm business in full flow.

This is a fourth generation farm business.

The farm is now run by Senan and his sons Declan, Fergal and Colm. The Pynes plant 12 different varieties of potatoes which are sold through various supermarkets, restaurants and fast food outlets across Co. Clare. the Pynes also produce organic potatoes for farmers markets, shops and box schemes.

This is a labour and capital intensive business with an impressive array of machines for planting, harvesting, washing, grading

and bagging of the potatoes. The Pynes use best modern practice combined with generations of knowledge on how to best harness the resources they have, rich free draining soil, to produce a quality potato.

The past year has not been without its challenges for this innovative business though. Covid-19 was a significant disturbance to many of the Pynes’s food service customers but through great relationships fostered with their customers they have managed this worrying period and continued to thrive. Weather like any farming enterprise is pivotal to a farm’s success and after a good spring the Pynes ran into a drought where they had to draw water to the crops to irrigate them for three weeks.

I came away from the Pynes feeling energised as to what is possible with the right attitude, work ethic and the addition of the youthful energy of the Pyne sons who are a credit to Senan and his wife Ann. On the home front we continue to dry off batches of cows. Our plan is to move towards selective dry cow therapy, we won’t be giving any antibiotic to cows with a low somatic cell count, we do regular milk recordings to get a good picture of individual cow’s udder health and this is essential if you are to embark on selective therapy.

We are well into our drying off routine now, we milk the cows in the morning and draft out the cows to be dried. The next step for us is to eat breakfast. Our reasoning here is twofold, we are re-energised and likely to be extra fussy with hygiene. We want to be meticulous as possible and as facing this task fresh is key to making no mistakes.

As the old adage goes “An empty bag won’t stand up and a full one won’t bend�.

Joe named Biodiversity Farmer of the Year CLARE Echo farming columnist Joe Melody (inset) was named the 2020 National Rural Network Biodiversity Farmer of the Year recently. The National Rural Network Biodiversity Farmer of the Year Award recognises a farmer who is farming sustainably by encouraging biodiversity and protecting the environment.

Joe farms 360 acres in partnership with his father.

Around 260 acres of the farm is used for the purebred suckler cows, their calves, and rearing the dairy replacement heifers.

Joe is an active participant in the GLAS Scheme.

The farm borders the Shannon estuary with over 3km of riverbank. The riverbank is carefully managed to encourage winter nesting birds such as wild geese and swans.

The remaining 100 acres are used for the dairy enterprise. A grassland management plan is in place to ensure cows spend the maximum amount of days at grass throughout the grazing season. A targeted nutrient management plan is in place, and measuring and recording grass

growths are actions central to ensuring the milking platform is farmed efficiently and in a sustainable manner.

Joe commented: “I am delighted to receive this award and to be recognised for supporting biodiversity and nature on my farm. I try to farm in conjunction with nature to protect the habitats on my farm.

I want to leave this land in the best condition I can so future generations can enjoy the nature and biodiversity it supports.�

A

S DECEMBER dawns, so too does the last chapter on what was been a generally dark year. So far 64 million people have contracted Covid-19 worldwide, with 1.5 million dying as a direct result of the disease.

Many more millions will suffer life limiting repercussions as a result of Coronavirus. In Ireland, over 3,000 people North and South have passed because of it. And this is before one considers the financial impact, mental health damage and other medical implications of missed diagnoses throughout the health system.

It’s fair to say 2020 will be rarely, if ever remembered favourably by people.

Nevertheless, in the twilight of the year, there is refreshed hope. With several major vaccines proving highly effective in infection prevention, and mass distribution programmes being put into effect by Governments around the world, it’s only a matter of time before life can resume in a more normal manner.

However, before we can win the war on Covid, there is another battle front that needs tackling: the war on internet misinformation. A series of polls over the weekend show that most Irish adults will take a Covid 19 vaccine when offered it. Both the Ireland Thinks poll (70%) and RedC poll (73%) were encouraging but that still leaves a large portion of the population sceptical and therefore a risk of virus propagation and re-infection.

Whereas vaccine efficacy is very high for all trials that have completed phase 3 to date, we still don’t know how long their effects will last. We therefore have a small window in which we need to vaccinate and crush Covid-19 once and for all. We cannot afford to let the virus linger on through 30% of the population that refuse a vaccine. Vaccines are among the most tested and regulated products on Earth.

The three-phase trial methodology was designed specifically to control quality and ensure independent oversight of testing.

With the UK now approving the Pfizer vaccine, that product has now passed all statutory testing and deemed fit for human consumption. It is swiftly expected that Irish regulatory authorities will

soon follow suit.

So why do we still have such a large cohort that will not take what will be a life saving medication? It’s down to two things.

The first is memories of medicine and “vaccines� that were produced in a time before effective and rigorous testing. There was a time when companies had an almost free reign to produce their own materials and almost self-regulate the safety of same.

That day is long since passed. The second major issue is our old friend: internet misinformation!

The usual brigade are out in force online for months now spreading complete rubbish and conspiracy theories about the potential of a vaccine and what it means for the world.

Everything from mind control to the New World Order and the Illuminati have been evoked in these crazy stories. Bill Gates coming in for comical attention due to his foundation funding vaccination programmes in Africa.

To clarify, his foundation merely bought a product and gave it away through an act of charity but these people on the internet are now claiming, as a result, he’s part of a plot for mass mind control. That’s the level of sense we’re dealing with.

The Ireland Thinks poll did give us some breakdown as to who is most wary of a vaccine.

These are, according to the poll, Independent, Aontú and Sinn FÊin voters. Only roughly half of Mary Lou McDonald’s followers said they would trust a vaccine,

compared to 91% of Greens, 89% of Labour, 83% of Fianna Fåil and 81% of Fine Gael supporters. This doesn’t come as any surprise, however. SF have cultivated huge portions of their current support base from mass online canvassing, through social media and paid adverts.

These are the same channels through which disinformation, or lies as they were traditionally called, about vaccines have been spreading. It also ties in with a recent poll that found supporters of AontĂş and Sinn FĂŠin were those most likely to vote for Trump in the recent US election, albeit at a lower level.

It’s also no surprise seeing as following our own General Election last February, two newly elected SF TD’s were caught up in anti-vaxx controversies, including Clare’s own Violet Anne Wynne.

Far from use this information as a stick to bash SF, it should be seen as that party as an opportunity to show some leadership. A cursory search through the Twitter feed of Mary Lou McDonald shows that, for the entire month of November, she has not once tweeted out herself about Covid or any potential vaccine.

The SF leader in the North, to her credit, did tweet out enthusiastically Wednesday morning about the news of an approved vaccine for use in the UK. If Mary Lou wants to be Taoiseach, she needs to show that she has the country’s best interests at heart, not the sensitivities of potential anti-vaxx voters!

ď ŹCONSPIRACY: Some people believe vaccines can cause serious harm and are a form of mind control

22 Arts & Entertainment

THURSDAY, DEC 3 2020

Clare hurling draws Ollie back to pen and paper PÁRAIC MCMAHON

O

paraic@clareecho.ie

LLIE Byrnes has effectively chronicled the story of Clare hurling, his latest project is the fruits of a project started and completed during a national lockdown.

‘With the Wind’ is his 11th book and ninth on the subject of hurling in the Banner County.

It serves almost as a sequel to his first publication, ‘Against the Wind’ which was released in 1996. The book is as up-to-date as of Clare’s round two qualifier win over Wexford from this year.

His love of history dates back to his school days where he can vividly recall the joy in studying social and political events of days gone by.

So far as games go, Ollie’s earliest memories are of being brought to matches at the age of four by his parents, whether it was schools or colleges encounters he savoured the occasion.

Compiling another book “was the last thing” he expected to be doing in January of this year, however his own journals chronicling and detailing Clare teams from 2001 onwards allowed the project to be started and finished in a national lockdown when valuable resources such as libraries remained shut.

Clare’s colourful period from 1995 to 2020 which included three All-Ireland SHC titles is covered in the book plus controversies from 1998 and 2008.

The book covers the success of Clare at all levels with many of the key personnel behind the scenes quoted while 22 hurlers of the past are documented in appraisals.Speaking to The Clare

Echo, the Ennis native admitted, “I still don’t believe I have written nine books on hurling”.

“Every time I finish I think I’m done and I’m not doing any more but last March I thought I would have one more go and bring it up to date, I’m delighted I took it on even though there was times that I rather I didn’t.

2The hardest time in it is when you’re getting close to the end and the finishing line, you’re nearly there but you can’t put your hand on the finishing line, there is some little thing holding you back which is the most frustrating part of the whole thing”.

Like many individuals who put pen to paper on a frequent basis, the tiniest of mistakes that can appear in such a body of work cause great annoyance.

“You will find a hell of a lot of mistakes and you get rid of them, in another draft you’ll still find more but you

hope the finished product will be as clean as possible. I keep promising myself that’s it”.

Nonetheless the promise is one he has broken continuously as the love of Clare hurling and charting it keeps bringing Byrnes back.

“You wonder why musicians go back to make a new album or do another album and what drives them.

“It is just the love of the game and similar to what drives players to go back for another year when they have given 10 years already.

We’re all driven by different things, there’s a bit of madness too because there is nothing out of it bar the satisfaction from doing it”.

Authors of such publications get little thanks so far as finances are concerned but Ollie is grateful to have the opportunity to regale in hurling tales with men such as John Joe Doyle, Jimmy Smyth, Jim Cullinan and Liam Danagher, all of whom

are now deceased. In total, he has interviewed between 250 to 300 people on matters hurling related.

‘With the Wind’ is available to purchase now Ennis Bookshop, Mary Kelly’s Newsagent and O’Connors Newsagent in The Market.

lEXPERT: Ollie Byrnes has written nine books on Clare hurling and 11 books in total

Cotter siblings feature on TG4 STUART HOLLY

editor@clareecho.ie

lPROLIFIC: Geraldine and Éamonn Cotter are two of the most well known musicians in Clare

TG4’s flagship traditional music series ’Sé mo Laoch tells the story of some of Irelands greatest musicians and singers.

Each of the five one-hour documentaries celebrates the musicianship and creativity of some of our most well-known and respected performers.

On Sunday the 6th of December at 9.30pm Co. Clare siblings Geraldine and Éamonn Cotter feature.

Co. Clare is renowned as the homeplace of Irish Traditional Music as it lives and breathes in

every almost every homestead and every parish.

Two of the most well-known exponents of tradition in Co. Clare are siblings Geraldine and Éamonn Cotter. Geraldine is a piano player and teacher with a unique take on music and she grew up playing with the older masters of the music. Éamonn is a flute player and flute maker and whilst he played with the Tulla Céilí Band as a young fellow he now makes flutes that are played all over the world.

We take a look at their life and music with guests such as Jack Talty, Kieran Hanrahan, Áine Hensey, Méabh Donnelly & Charlie Harris.

The series, produced for TG4,

showcases the huge diversity of Irish traditional music and musicians, from “the Jimmy Hendrix of the pipes” Paddy Keenan to Cork sisters Nollaig Casey & Máire Ní Chathasaigh, Fermanagh singer Gabriel McArdle and Clare siblings Geraldine & Éamonn Cotter, not to mention the king of ‘Kerryoke’ himself Séamus Begley.

Each programme is as unique as it is intimate and tells the story of these seminal musicians in their own words. Previous episodes are available to watch on www.tg4.ie Directed by Ciarán Ó Maonaigh and produced by Dónal O’Connor, Executive Producer is Niamh Ní Bhaoill. ‘Sé mo Laoch is produced by Aniar TV.

THURSDAY, DEC 3 2020

Enjoy an online Christmas at glór

W

HILST glór’s doors may be closed, the venue has been working behind the scenes to redevelop its winter programme in a digital format, presenting lots of festive online shows for families and schools to enjoy.

A Christmas Carol is Aaron Monaghan and Bryan Burroughs’ playful, physical storytelling, stage adaptation of Charles Dickens’ Christmas classic. The two award-winning actors - dressed in snazzy suits - play all the characters at breakneck speed using an array of colorful hats, scarves and an Ikea coat-rack! A Christmas Carol is funny, slightly scary, utterly heart-warming and features a surprise special guest appearing as Tiny Tim. Family shows will be available on Saturday December 5th and schools shows on Friday December 11th and will be viewable for a 24-hour period.

Branar Téatar do Pháistí returns this year with an online performance of Rockin’ Rhymes, a musical treat for all the family with a merry mix of festive favourites and rocking rhymes performed by a fantastic five piece band.

This festive feel-good live music is just the ticket to get the whole family ready for Christmas. Family shows are available on Sunday 20th December and schools’ shows for the week prior.

The WhistleBlast Quartet bring another festive favourite with their online performance of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker on Saturday, December 19th. Come and enter the magical dance world of The Nutcracker, narrated and performed by the WhistleBlast and including Sleigh Ride and lots popular carols! Bells and Singing will feature and the audience can join in at home.

Please pre-book performances on www.glor.ie or on 065 6843103.

12 Acts of Christmas is glór’s festive gift in the countdown to Christmas. Every day from 13th December glór will share a specially recorded short three minute act by a diverse range of artists and local performers on its social media channels and website.

Whilst glór can’t welcome audiences in person this year, 12 Acts of Christmas will capture a flavour of its usual festive fare. Acts include Ballet Ireland; pianist Sean Shannon; the Kilfenora Céilí Band, Susan O’Neill & Tara Furlong; Sarah McTernan and well-loved Pantaloons characters; Clare Youth Theatre; The Speks; Nóta Stóta, Nuala Kennedy & Jack Talty; Branar Theatre and Clare Youth Trad Orchestra.

And finally, whilst the building might be closed, glór is going all out with the lights and from Dec 5th will be creatively lit up featuring projection of festive artwork submitted by Clare’s community.

Arts & Entertainment

23

Christmas goes Online at glór!

Box Office Opening Hours: 10am – 2.30pm Monday – Friday Pre-book your tickets on www.glor.ie or on 065 684310

ONLINE EVENTS glór presents

A Christmas Carol: Online Family Performance

by Aaron Monaghan and Bryan Burroughs Sat 5 Dec From 3pm €10 per family/device

glór presents

A Christmas Carol: Online Schools’ Performance

by Aaron Monaghan and Bryan Burroughs Fri 11 Dec From 10am €30 per class/€100 per school

Branar Téatar do Pháistí presents

Rockin’ Christmas Rhymes: Online Schools’ Performances From Mon 14 to Fri 18 Dec From 10am €30 per class/€100 per school

Branar Téatar do Pháistí presents

Rockin’ Christmas Rhymes: Online Family Performance Sun 20 Dec From 3pm €10 per family/device

The WhistleBlast Quartet presents

The Nutcracker: Online Family Performance Sat 19 Dec From 3pm €10 per family/device

Please support glór in any way you can  Buy a glór gift voucher online or from the box office  Give yourself or someone you love a Christmas present that lasts all year – a glór Friend’s subscription is the gift that keeps on giving with complimentary tickets, dedicated Friends’ Nights, discounts in the café and much more  If you have booked tickets for glór for a cancelled show, please consider donating a small amount of the value of the ticket to help us continue to work with our great artistic community lSNOW CRAIC: Aaron Monaghan and Bryan Burroughs have created a playful adaptation of Charles Dicken’s A Christmas Carol

Tickets and further information on 065 6843103 or www.glor.ie

24 FEATURES

The lights of Advent RONAN SCULLY

Thought for the week

R

EADY or not it is Advent. It began last Sunday and many of us are already preparing our homes and families to observe

this season.

As the commercial world about us readies itself for the Christmas season we are invited to take a step back and view the bigger picture and now perhaps more than ever before, in this time of the Coronavirus pandemic crisis, we are being called to stay awake, to stay watchful, to keep our eyes, our hearts and minds wide open and free to recognise the light of God’s presence shining within our own heart.

If approached in a spirit of openness, Advent can be an opportunity to deepen our sense of God who walks alongside us on the journey of life. It is somewhat like a mini Lent before Christmas.

We are invited to set aside some extra time and space for prayer, reflection and good works. The restrictions in place because of the Coronavirus mean that we may not be in a position to gather as usual for our religious services or go about the normal activities we are used to doing around the Christmas season.

This situation challenges us to find new ways of reflecting on our faith and praying in our homes.

Many of us are also wondering, how could we possibly enter into the celebration of Advent if we are paying attention to what is happening to our beautiful country and our world that we all live in? How do we celebrate or turn our thoughts and hearts towards Christmas when our hearts are broken by the fact that nearly 10,000 people, families and children are going to be homeless in our country this Christmas?

Then there is the direct provision and asylum/refugee crisis, climate change upheaval, the challenges of the Coronavirus, the Brexit worries and the craziness of our country and the world at the moment, where human life is worth nothing anymore and is so meaningless.

In these days, celebration can seem heartless and uncaring, if not outright impossible. But here’s the thing: we enter into Advent precisely because we are paying attention. It’s because everything hurts, that we prepare for Advent.

It’s because we have stood in hospital rooms, mortuaries and grave sides, empty churches and quiet bedrooms, that we resolutely light our Advent candles. We don’t get to have hope without having

grief and sadness. Hope dares to admit that not everything is as it should be, and so if we want to be hopeful, first we have to grieve.

First we have to see that something is broken and there is a reason for why we need hope to begin with and hope to wait.

Advent Examination

Speaking of waiting, I was at my doctors waiting room recently and as usual for me I was early so I had to wait in line with other patients.

If you are like me as soon as I enter a waiting room or line up in a queue for some meeting or event, I start to feel uncomfortable. There is something about the not-knowing how long you will be there for.

And then there’s the uncertainty of what the doctor in my case or whoever it is, it could be a parents teacher waiting room at a school or a bank waiting area, you're waiting to see what they will say when you finally get in. I try to rehearse what I will say. I get impatient and keep looking at the surgery clock on the wall. The silence is a deafening one; the cloud of stress and worry arising from a room or a line full of patients with loud sighs and various movements, and each dealing with their own worries and preoccupations, feeling restless and in-between.

And then, when the call finally comes from the doctor to enter, I never feel prepared. It always feels like an unexpected and rude interruption, though it was what I was waiting for, all along. The season of Advent can be a bit like that as we wait in anticipation for Christmas and the coming of the Christ child. Occurring at the time of year when the earth moves towards the Winter Solstice, when the days are gradually shortening and a chill in the air replaces a soft breeze, Advent conjures up a time of twilight, expectancy and waiting.

Trees bravely shed their beauty and stand stark and naked in the freezing cold. A crisp frost covers the ground.

A sense of the impending winter is in the air. We pause in silence and gather to remember and to prepare. Advent for many people is a time of waiting for the coming of the Lord, and many prayer services and liturgies provide us with beautiful experiences and reminders of the glory of the One who is to come.

Daily we can make an Advent examination. Are there any feelings of discrimination toward race, sex, or religion? Is there a lingering resentment, an unforgiven injury living in our hearts? Do we look

down upon others of lesser social standing or educational achievement? Are we generous with the gifts that have been given to us, seeing ourselves as their stewards and not their owners? Are we reverent of others, their ideas and needs, and of creation?

These and other questions become Advent lights by which we may search the deep, dark corners of our hearts. We wait for the coming of the Lord. We are encouraged to ‘Awake and keep watch!’ However we also need to awaken to the fact that the Lord is waiting for us.

There is a sense in which we do not need to wait for God. God is always present in a myriad of ways, around us, among us, between us, within us. Do we not need to awaken to the wonder and mystery of this? For those who are awake and for those who see as Gerard Manley Hopkins used to say, can see ‘The earth is charged with the grandeur of God’.

Thought for the week

As your thought for the week, please remember that Advent matters, because it’s our way of keeping our eyes and our hearts and our arms all wide open even in the midst of our grief and longing.

The weary world is still waiting in so many ways, in so many hearts, in so many places, for the fullness of Our Lord and his kingdom to come.

A prayer I say during Advent time for everyone in need of a prayer of Hope especially for our loved ones that are sick, unwell, homeless, abandoned and in need of our actions of love and caring goes as follows - "Emmanuel, Our world waits in darkness longing for Your light. In the midst of darkness, en-kindle our hope. As we long for lasting peace in the midst of war, Be with us. As we long for families to be reunited, Be with us.

As we long for homeless and abandoned people in our communities to be cared for, Be with us.

As we long for enemies to be reconciled, Be with us. As we long for cures and healing, Be with us. As we long for decent jobs and decent homes and shelter and economic security, Be with us.

As we long for love and community, Be with us. Fulfill the deepest longings of your people and Dispel the darkness in our hearts and in our world. Let your Word ignite the hope the world needs to bring to life your love and justice.

May this Advent season be a time for bringing hope, transformation and fulfillment into the real living of our lives. Amen." I encourage you this season of Advent to make yourself a little sacred space, a holy place you have set aside for prayer, meditation, and worship. A place for daily devotion and rest.

A place that draws your heart like a little child into the stillness and the wonder of Advent.

THURSDAY, DEC 3 2020

30 wild swims in 30 days for Pieta charity CIAN O’BROIN

R

cianobroin@clareecho.ie

ISE and Swim Clare have just completed the 30 Days 30 Wild Swims challenge in aid of Pieta House for the month of November, raising a total of €2,500.

Every Sunday, the group took to Ballyalla Lake for an early morning swim in order to raise funds for free therapy for people experiencing mental health difficulties or for people who have lost others through suicide.

Rosie Mc Mahon decided to set up Rise and Swim Clare on the cusp of the second lockdown, after restrictions meant that regular Sunday dawn swims at White Strand were no longer a possibility. Forming into a cohesive group of eight, Rosie concedes that the transition from the sea meant braving colder waters throughout the 30-day challenge. The group had to invest in neoprene gloves and foot socks. Adding that one of the biggest challenges at Ballyalla was dealing with the swans.

"Pieta House was chosen for a personal reason, due to my struggle with mental health issues. They provide free therapy for those who are struggling with their mental health and for those who have lost others

through suicide. It's all about preventing harm and nipping things in the bud before they get more serious. November is a hard month for people. It's the month of all souls," Rosie states.

Donations can be made through Rise and Swim Clare's Facebook or Instagram page or through Rosie Mc Mahon's personal Facebook page. Charities have been hit hard from Covid this year; she says. Adding that, "There is a high suicide rate particularly amongst women in business, where things have gone belly up for them. Some people can lean into managing lockdown where other people have to close their business down. Pieta House offers that vital free service."

Rise and Swim Clare will continue swimming throughout the lockdown and Rosie welcomes all interested men or women to contact the group via social media. A group of busy mums, the approach is simply to grab a towel and go, she informs The Clare Echo.

Another similar group looking for new members at Ballyalla are Water Warriors.

On a final note, Rise and Swim Clare will be taking part in a swim in White Strand, on December 26th at 2pm, in support of Women's Aid. To make a donation to Pieta House, visit: https://www.facebook.com/rosie.mcmahon.3/ posts/3364179010356847

lTHERAPY: Rise and Swim organiser Rosie McMahon

FEATURES 25

THURSDAY, DEC 3 2020

GREEN CLARE

Shop sustainably this Green Friday CIAN O’BROIN

T

cianobroin@clareecho.ie

HE Community Resources Network Ireland (CRNI) has launched a special Green Friday campaign taking place on December 4th, hoping to promote sustainable shopping and support social enterprises in reuse, repair and recycling leading up to this Christmas.

Launched with the Irish Charity Shops Association (ICSA), the hope is that people will hold off from the typical Black Friday over-consumption and look towards charity shops for second-hand, upcycled, re-used and recycled goods instead of new. CRNI Executive Claire Downes believes this year, the campaign has a multitude of benefits, including saving money, saving the planet and supporting local charitable causes. “The more we can point people in this direction, the more we can support these really important services. That is why we are saying, you can make a difference,� Claire states.

The concept has been around for some time

although this year, CRNI’s Green Friday clashes with an event of the same name that urges shoppers to shop local this Christmas.

The key difference here, Claire explains, is the impotence on sustainable shopping by, “Not only going local but also going reusable and upcycled. What we are trying to say is to buy second hand and refurbished goods. It takes the pressure off the environment that comes with making new goods. It’s an easy way to be sustainable. It takes the pressure off.�

Last year, 11.5 million garments were sold through ICSA member charity shops. This and other reuse social enterprise activities saved over 150,000 tonnes of carbon, avoided waste and conserved natural resources by avoiding the consumption of new goods.

This year, charity shops and social enterprises have felt the brunt of Covid-19 and Claire hopes that Green Friday on December 4th will give them that boost to their business. Many of them have been operating click and collect services and making use of technological innovation such as sustainable clothing app Thriftify but footfall has been emphatically low this year above others. “Going into the store suits a lot of people who shop in these places,� Claire asserts.

Reuse social enterprises are not technical-

lDRAB TO FAB: Shop for upcycled items this Christmas

ly charity shops but would take in a lot of refurbished items in support of the circular economy. Furniture shops take in old items, restore, upcycle and sell it on later. These enterprises provide training and support for people who would otherwise find it difficult to get into the jobs market, Claire confesses.

Adding, “There are two directories to find these. The first is for your local towny shop, there is a web link on our poster entitled ‘www.icsa.ie/shops’ and for all the other social enterprises you can go to ‘www.crni.ie/ directory’.

Together, ICSA and CRNI members employ over 690 people, create social employment for about 2,200 people and 7,200 volunteer opportunities nationwide.

On making an impact this Christmas, Christine concedes, “I’m sure people have been going online already, really early this year, buying online. That can lead to a lot of waste of course. If the product isn’t right, then there’s returns, and they tend to be discarded. All of the waste associated with processing and shipping too. If we can intervene at some level and encourage people to purchase second-hand goods, then we would be very happy. Look online and in stores. It’s a great way to boost local, social and sustainable businesses and save money too.�

Funding for this project is provided by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) under the National Waste Prevention Programme.

26 COMMUNITY

Community NCCWN Clare Women's Network are moving their renowned Festival of FeminismS, Silence + Voice, online to mark International Human Rights Day on December 10th while also adapting to the restrictions imposed by COVID 19.

The webinar, Silence + Voice Speak Up Speak Out, takes place on Thursday, December 10th at 2:30pm until 5pm and is the first in a new series being organised by the Clare Women's Network.

It will see influential feminists from across Ireland, speaking up and speaking out about their lived experiences personally and professionally. Project Coordinator of the Clare Women's Network, Elaine D'Alton stated "Clare Women's Network are excited to launch this series on International Human Rights Day which is also the last day of the International 16 Day campaign to raise awareness of Gender Based Violence, a very significant day and a hugely important campaign for women universally. The panel will discuss issues pertaining to feminism in Ireland, gender identity, human rights, gender based violence and racism.

The panel will also explore how our past and current experiences create opportunities for an inclusive movement of women into the future."

Speakers will include: Dr Ebun Joseph, Dr Phil Mullen, Carine Mambou, Jennifer Awoh, Salome Mbugua, Nompumelelo Mnyandu, Sharon Murphy and Clare native Victoria Olukitibi. The webinar is free to attend but you must register via Eventbrite (search Silence + Voice.) Irish Sign Language Interpreters will be present at the event.

CONTACT

NEWSDESK 065 671 9021 news@clareecho.ie

ENNISTYMON

COUNTYWIDE WOMEN’S NETWORK WEBINAR

THURSDAY, DEC 3 2020

When speaking about the silencing of women and encouraging women to use their voice, author, lecturer and race relations expert, Dr Ebun Joseph, said "Stories are powerful tools that can unsilence women. When women share their stories of abuse, trauma and injustice, it's not an invitation to question the validity of their experiences. It's a scary but courageous move to step out of the boundaries created for them to be in the world as people in certain ways. She's 'too loud', 'too angry', 'too bitter', 'too promiscuous', 'too drunk' are silencing mechanisms that blame women for their abuse. Unsilencing of women is a human right. Stop the abuse. Unmute yourself. If you see it, name it. Save a sister!"

Head of Operations and Strategy with AkiDwA, the African Women's Network and Commissioner for Human Rights and Equality, Salome Mbugua, highlighted the significance of this event, saying "Quite often women are left out even in discussions and meetings that are meant to shape policies in areas that affect their lives, as mothers and primary carers of their family they have first-hand experience of dealing with and handling issues, in particular with their daily experience of racism and discrimination, black women visibility and voices are taken for granted and are completed ignored. This webinar offers a platform for expression and opportunity to amplify the hidden faces, ambitions and voices of these people."

Clare Women's Network are hopeful that Silence + Voice Speak Up Speak Out will engage the public and ignite conversations around building solidarity and an inclusive feminist movement in Ireland.

TUAMGRANEY

lCONGRADULATIONS: Sadbh Minogue, BA (hons) HRM, with her parents Peter and Áine, celebrating her graduation from National College of Ireland at home in Tuamgraney. This photo was taken by Sadbh’s sister, Róisín.

lCENTENARY: Clare County Library have been named as the Best Library Service in

Ireland following their project entitled; Connections: Stories by Syrian Families in County Clare

TOP AWARD FOR LIBRARY

CLARE County Library has been awarded with 'Best Library Service' in the Chambers Ireland Excellence in Local Government Awards 2020 for the project, 'Connections: Stories by Syrian Families in County Clare', writes Cian O’Broin.

The Chambers Ireland government awards is an annual competition for local authorities. Clare County Library was shortlisted for a book called 'Connections' which includes stories by Syrian families in County Clare.

An outright winner, the project came about when workshops were held in Ennistymon Library for Syrian children who had arrived as immigrants four years previously, under the UN Resettlement Programme.

The project began in an attempt to invite Syrian families to the library and offer them a special project where they could come together to share their stories and work as a group.

Executive Librarian Patricia Fitzgerald acknowledges that the achievement is a fruitful, "Coming together of the school, the local Library, the Syrian community and the wider public in Ennistymon."

The workshop was facilitated at Ennistymon Library by visiting author, Debbie Thomas.

The project came about as a result of a visit she made two years previous to the publication of the book.

On that occasion, Debbie hosted a workshop on wordless books or silent books.

These are picture books with no words, Patricia explains. Stating, "Seating them on a magic carpet Debbie gave the children a silent book each and from there, one by one, they started to tell their stories."

A series of workshops on story creation and illustration were funded by Clare County Library in conjunction with Creative Ireland,

Poetry Ireland and IBBY Ireland. The illustration workshops were led by illustrator, Tatyana Feeney.

The children illustrated their own stories.

Parents and older siblings came together with the children from Ennistymon National School, Scoil Mhainchín. Principal Helen Sheridan was delighted, and Patricia affirms that "the library has a great working relationship with the school."

16 Syrian residents in Ennistymon, mainly children told their stories, and they were published in the book, 'Connections.'

"The reaction to the book was fantastic. The families were delighted. At a publication launch at Ennistymon Library earlier this year, Poetry Ireland, IBBY Ireland, authors and illustrators and Syrian families came together to celebrate.

“There has been a fantastic reaction from the local community in Ennistymon. The staff in the library there were hugely influential in getting the project off the ground," Patricia professes.

'Connections: Stories by Syrian Families in County Clare' will be available for collection from Clare County Libraries in the coming weeks. Patricia avows that the award has provided great encouragement for Clare County Library to continue with such initiatives, year on year.

"This was certainly a worthwhile project," Patricia concludes. Helen Walsh, Co Librarian commended Patricia on a great initiative which was a winner from the start. She added that "Clare County Library prides itself on being a leader in many areas of library provision and have been very active during the recent lock down with home deliveries to residents throughout the county. This awarding winning project provides a great template for similar initiatives in 2021".

COMMUNITY 27

THURSDAY, DEC 3 2020

CONNOLLY CLIMATE CHANGE ARTWORK

Connolly N.S. recently unveiled their Climate Change artwork funded by the Clare Arts Office in association with their Artist in Schools Programme.

Our climate artist Evelyn Sorohan Daly used environmental art processes and practices to engage the children in creative thinking, discussion, exploration, research, problem solving and through the use of technology, inspired them to make their own creative art and environmental inventions.

In a natural and enjoyable way, the children discovered the relationship between how they live and how this affects climate change. They realised they need to reduce the amount of plastics they buy and the use of fossil fuels within the wider society.

Interestingly they learned that plastics are made from oil and they are having an increased effect on "Climate Change".

During the early stages of the programme the children learned to construct their own learning in science, technology, engineering, art and maths

(S.T.E.A.M.) as they participated in active learning lessons facilitated by artist Evelyn Sorohan and class teachers using a co-teaching model.

Seán O' Neill, teacher and principal of Connolly N.S. noted how much the children had learned through this programme and how they came to a deeper understanding of climate change, stating, "It inspired creativity, co-operation and innovation amongst the children. Our artist tied in the elements of this programme with the curriculum and it also helped us recently achieve our fourth Green Schools Flag."

Due to Covid 19, Connolly N.S had to adapt the programme. Evelyn Sorohan rose to the challenge and incorporated the plastics that the children had brought into school to create an original art piece for the school.

At the official unveiling of the piece Evelyn explained the process of how she created this piece out of the children's recycled toys and waste. It now takes pride of place in the corridor of the school, reminding the children to be more conscious of climate change.

lPLASTIC FANTASTIC: Students at Connolly National School partici-

pated in a project aimed at making them more aware of climate change

CLARECASTLE WINDOWS OF WONDER

IT IS with regret that we announce the closure of our charity shop. We would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank all our very loyal volunteers and customers and those of you who donated items. We greatly appreciated your support over the years. Sincere thanks to the O’Meara family for the use of their premises. Many thanks to you all. Take care and keep safe, from Mary Morrissey and Catherine Toomey

Did you have Polio?

WEST CLARE MISTER WEST CLARE

JUSTIN Ryan of Cooraclare was crowned Mister West Clare on last Monday night when the final of 'Mister West Clare' votes were counted. Also well done to Martin Flynn of Miltown Malbay who was a very close runner up. While all the Misters were fantastic participants a special mention needs to go to Justin Ryan Cooraclare, Martin Flynn Miltown Malbay, Martin Kelly Doonbeg and Kevin McNamee Kilmaley as the funds raised by these four has been phenomenal. The total of €17,978 raised will be divided between Sláinte an Chláir (40%), West Clare Cancer Centre (40%)and Rockmount NS (20%). The organiser Marie Vaughan Killeen of Miltown Malbay congratulated the eleven gentlemen who were nominated for the event and helped to raise such a wonderful amount. The eleven contestants together with organiser Marie are most grateful to all who voted and contributed to the fund.

ENNISTYMON ANNUAL CONCERT

ENNISTYMON Vocational School along with friends are delighted to be presenting their annual concert in aid of Friends of Ennistymon Hospital. The concert will go out virtually and will be available to watch on the school’s website and Facebook pages from Monday 14th December. Visit www.ennistymonvs.ie or Ennistymon Vocational School @EnnistymonVS.

COUNTYWIDE

CLARE DISABLED PEOPLE UNITE FOR ‘TOGETHER WE ARE VISIBLE’

On Thursday, 3rd of December, Clare disabled people will come together to mark International Day of Disabled People 2020. The theme of this year's international day, which unites disabled people across the world is "Building Back Better: toward a disability-inclusive, accessible and sustainable post COVID-19 World".

As we approach the end of the historic year that is 2020, the Clare Leader Forum wants to look at what that really means for disabled people and work with our political representatives to ensure 'Together we are Visible'.

The renewed focus on financial constraints, in a new COVID era, instills fear in many disabled people. If you would like any further information or have any specific issues you would like raised on your behalf through this meeting please contact Ann Marie Flanagan, Clare Leader Forum Advocacy and Communications Officer, 087 2740079.

Why not join the National Polio Register? Sign up and give ALL polio survivors a stronger voice.

Help create strength in numbers, so those who had polio, can get the medical care and other supports they need.

Help safeguard your future by registering at: www.polio.ie or call 01 889 89 20 or email info@ppsg.ie

✔ Register.

Record.

Safeguard.

28 COLUMNIST

THURSDAY, DEC 3 2020

SUPER SPICY SOUP STARTER Kearney Cooks

I

HAVE been thinking a lot about Christmas dinner lately, and what I will serve.

I like to keep it fairly traditional but throw in the odd curve ball to keep my dinner guests on their toes.

This year, I will be starting my meal with the most traditional of starters, SOUP, because everybody loves soup (and it allows me more time to focus on not ballsing up the main course).

However, I will throw a little twist on it and serve a curried soup, which is something my guests will not be so used to. This soup is pure handy to make and is bloody delicious to boot.

Step 1 Chop all your veggies, have your stock ready to go, and put your pan on to heat up with a good glug of oil Step 2 Horse in your squash, and let that cook off for a few minutes until it starts to develop a bit of colour.

Step 3 When the squash starts going golden brown, add in the rest of your veg, your spices and the tomato puree.

Sweat them off for a few mins Step 4 Add in your litre of stock and let it

simmer for a half hour or until the veg is soft in the pot.

Step 5 Puree your soup with a hand blender or whatever you have to hand. Add in a hundred ml of cream at this point as well Step 6 Serve it with some yummy bread and let it warm you through Enjoy

Steve K

For this recipe you will need • 1 Fairly big butternut squash • 2 carrots • 1 onion • 3 cloves of garlic • A squirt of tomato puree • 1 litre of stock ( chicken or veg) • 100ml cream And a half teaspoon of the following spices: • • • • •

R

ebecca O’Neill

A

Garam Masala Turmeric Mustard Seeds Ground Cumin Chilli Powder

FOR VIDEO DEMO, SCAN THE QR CODE WITH YOUR PHONE

Back our businesses

Miss Clare Rebecca O'Neill discusses the importance of shopping local and gives the lowdown on some of her favourite local spots

S A large amount of the population in Ireland would know, supporting local businesses is crucial during this unexpected global pandemic.

Business owners have been hit very hard with the financial pressure that has come along with this pandemic, on top of facing nationwide lockdowns. The economy has dropped to the bottom of the spectrum and it’s up to us to support it when we can.

A full directory of online businesses to support are available through the wonderful Click for Clare initiative on The Clare Echo’s website. I am going to mention some local businesses in Ballycasey Craft and Design centre in Shannon that deserve recognition.

Lavender Beauty and Hair Art are situated in the second courtyard in the craft centre. They offer a wide range of beauty treatments and all under the same roof. From

waxing, facials and makeup applications, to getting your favourite curly blow dry, fresh hair colour or even a trim. Containing professional beauty therapists and hairdressers, they ensure that you feel satisfied and confident before you leave. These businesses specialise in taking care of all your beauty needs for weddings, communions, confirmations, large gatherings, you name it. Book your appointment to avoid disappointment.

Lavender Beauty - Mobile: 086

YUM: Some treats from The Fairy Queen, Shannon

858 9229, Hair Art - Mobile:085 229 2508.

The Lash Boutique by Shannon is also situated in the second courtyard. Offering a large amount of different eyelash extension styles, which includes Classic and Russian. Be sure to send Shannon a message on Instagram when booking. She also unveils her amazing work on her Instagram grid which can help you decide what style you choose. She always ensures that you’re very comfortable during your appointment while achieving your eyelash goals. Instagram: @ thelashboutique_byshannon.

The Fairy Queen offers a wide range of cakes, cookies, and is best known for their delicious waffles and cinnamon buns. From birthdays to confirmations, communions and graduations, this place has you covered. The Fairy Queen (Barbara Kimber) showcases her delicious food on Instagram and Facebook: Fairyqueen Shannon, Instagram: @thefairyqueenshannon, Mobile: 061 703 577.

Angel Flowers are known for

their high quality floral arrangements, including their amazing customer service and wide range of different flowers to choose from. They also now have an online shop where they offer the best quality flowers, just a click of a button. They showcase their gorgeous flowers on Instagram and Facebook. It’s very safe to say these bouquets most certainly speak for themselves. Facebook: Angel Flowers Shannon, Instagram: @ angelflowersshannon Mobile: 061 365 990.

The Rowan Berry is very well renowned for their tasty breakfast and lunch menu. From the occasional fry up to your traditional club sandwich, this restaurant offers so much to fill your hungry stomach. Offering fresh coffee and traditional Irish food, this family owned business has a large selection of home baking which is always ready to be delivered. They often showcase their delicious food on their Facebook page. Facebook: The Rowanberry Restaurant, Mobile: 061 360 590.

30

DEC 3 2020

‘Power is in our hands to sustain local business’ Chief Executive ‘makes no apology’ about asking people to shop local STUART HOLLY editor@clareecho.ie

M

AKING the decision to shop locally this Christmas could be the difference between a business surviving or failing for the year ahead. Therein lies the significance of doing your Christmas shopping in Clare, according to senior officials in Clare County Council.

Pat Dowling, Chief Executive of Clare County Council, says he makes no apologies about asking people to shop locally as he believes that if the public makes a “special effort this Christmas” it will help sustain the business community into 2021.

Clare County Council has itself backed a number of campaigns to spread the message including The Clare Echo’s Click For Clare campaign and Ennis Chamber of Commerce Clare Gift Card initiative, to name just two. Speaking to The Clare Echo this week, Mr Dowling said that in a year of huge commercial disruption it is now vitally important that the Council get behind the local business community.

“It’s absolutely crucial. At the end of the day, the employment, the jobs, the businesses are the cog that turns the wheel of County Clare. We have to support business in every way possible which is why we’re engaging in a proactive campaign of advertising, promotion and social media trying to spread the message to choose Clare.

We have a diverse range of local artisan produce that’s very suitable for the Christmas market and we want people to buy local and support local businesses. It won’t change everything but it will make a significant difference.

The small business industry will tell you that the Christmas market is what sustains them often for a large part of the year - now it won’t be as good as what it would normally be - but I think if we make a special effort safely, we can help those businesses carry on as they look forward into 2021.”

He notes that while Covid-19 has driven a shift in consumer habits to online, the only way to keep Clare people in jobs and businesses alive is to shop locally. “We shouldn’t make any apologies for requesting that to be done. I know it can be a good facility to shop online and get goods delivered to your door and that will continue. But let’s be balanced in how we do our shopping

as well.”

The Chief Executive says that he hopes the message being permeated

by Clare County Council is being digested by the public. “We have a number of campaigns going with all aspects of the media including yourselves and we’re delighted to be cooperating on that basis and also with the Chambers of Commerce and other key stakeholders to get that message out. We would expect people would also do the right thing this Christmas. They do need to satisfy their own shopping needs this Christmas, I know that, their habits may have changed but please, let’s not forget that for everybody in County Clare that we have a great county and we want to keep it that way.”

Mr Dowling adds that while it will be an unusual Christmas, his enduring message is to enjoy it as much as we can. “Be careful, take care but most important of all have a big smile on your face, be positive and we will have a brighter future next year. It’s one Christmas, and we have many many more to come to enjoy the way we’re used to enjoying them.”

Mayor of County Clare, Cllr Mary Howard (FG), told The Clare Echo that supporting local business goes further than jobs and

is an integral element of community prosperity. Ms Howard refers to herself as one of the ‘Covid Mayors’ and adds that this year more than ever is about local communities.

“It is fundamental this year. You have to shop local this year whether you live in Ennistymon, Scariff, Kilrush, Ennis… Amazon are not going to support the football team, they are not going to pay for the bus to go to matches.

But the local hardware shop does or the local supermarket does or the local boutique will send in spot prizes for the school fashion show to raise funds.

It’s so important that we mind and nurture those and that we have them for Christmas and next Christmas.

“The power to do this is in our hands, every single one of us have a role to play in this. Even if it’s just buying your cards, or all of your gifts, please shop local and you might pay a little bit more but the satisfaction of ensuring shops will stay open, people will get wages, they’ll stay in work. That’s so important, it outweighs the Amazons of this world.” lSTRONG MESSAGE: Mayor Mary Howard and Clare County Council Chief Executive Pat Dowling Photo by Gary Collins

Christmas spirit returns to Ennis as shops reopen

A

S THE Christmas 2020 season gets underway, Ennis Municipal District is delighted to welcome people into Ennis Town Centre, where free parking, pedestrian friendly streets and an abundance of traditional Yuletide cheer will put a pep in the step of Christmas shoppers.

To promote Christmas and New Year shopping in Clare’s County Town, free parking will be available in all public car parks in Ennis Town every Monday to Saturday from 2-6pm, commencing today (December 3) until Saturday, January 9 inclusive. Parking remains free of charge from 8am to 6.30pm, Monday to Saturday, at the Cloister/GAA car park.

Similar to previous years, for the Christmas period streets will be pedestrianised on Sundays this year between 1-6pm (6th, 13th, 20th, 27th December and 3rd January). To add to the festive cheer, Ennis Street Radio will be on air from December 11-24, playing all your favourite Christmas hits, while promoting local businesses. The Ennis Street Radio project is headed by local broadcaster Ger Sweeney and is run with the support of the Ennis Municipal District, Ennis Chamber of Commerce and the traders of the town. This year Clare County Council and the Local Enterprise Office Clare have come on board to bring some new features to the Street Radio that will assist with promoting local businesses.

The Mayor of Ennis, Cllr Paul Murphy, is calling on people in Clare to support our local businesses and avail of the many different ways to shop locally, and safely, this Christmas.

Cllr Murphy said: “Ennis Municipal District is delighted to support our local businesses during the Christmas period.

The Christmas lights are on, the streets

will be filled with festive cheer, and everyone is invited to come and enjoy the Ennis Christmas shopping experience. “The annual pedestrianisation of the town streets at Christmas, coupled with measures under the Temporary Covid-19 Town Centre Mobility Plan for Ennis Town, will enable people to visit and enjoy the Town Centre in a safe, socially distanced way and – crucially – support our local shops and businesses. It has never been more important that we do so. “As well as re-opening their doors to the public, many shops are selling online, or offering click-and-collect or delivery services. Local gift cards and vouchers are available, such as the Clare Gift Card, which can be purchased via the Ennis Chamber website at www.ennischamber. ie or from a number of post offices, including Ennis Post Office. The ‘Click for Clare’ initiative helps connect people to local businesses that are trading online (www.clareecho.ie/click-for-clare). In the weeks leading up to Christmas, I encourage everyone to avail of such services and plan to do as much shopping locally as possible.�

Ennis Street Radio will feature and promote as many local businesses as possible. Ger Sweeney said: “Encouraging people to shop local has been our primary message each year, but this year we will be emphasising the message as best we can, all while entertaining people with their favourite Christmas songs, both old and new. As in previous years, Ennis Street Radio can be listened to online via www.ennischamber.ie.�

The public are reminded to adhere to Covid-19 guidelines this Christmas. Further info on shopping safely during the Covid-19 pandemic is available at: www2. hse.ie/wellbeing/shopping-safely-coronavirus/shopping-safely-coronavirus.

DEC 3 2020

31

Pop in Store for all PopChristmas in Store for all your decor your decor PopChristmas in Store for all your Christmas decor

Â

Carrygerry Christmas Shop Open from December 4th 2020 Range of Carrygerry Hampers made to order Gift Sets & Gift Vouchers Available

Order your corporate hampers today All budgets catered for

Pre Order your Christmas Day Treats: Pate, Seafood Chowder, Tarts, Crumbles, Cheesecakes, Christmas Puddings, Cranberry Sauce etc

32

DEC 3 2020

Bunratty Xmas

A

SPECIAL Christmas lights trail will be taking place at Bunratty Folk Park this Christmas, bringing a much-needed injection of joy to the Shannon Heritage-run facility over the Christmas period.

Shannon Heritage, a Shannon Group company, is holding a special festive Christmas lights trail through Bunratty Castle and Folk Park running from December 4-23, which is guaranteed to spread festive cheer.

This year, mindful of social distancing, visitors will get a unique opportunity to enjoy an enchanted walk through the winter woodlands and twinkling lights of Bunratty Folk Park and an opportunity to support a very worthy charity.

A spokesperson for Shannon Heritage said, “While we may not be able to do our usual Santa event at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park this year, we wanted to give visitors an opportunity to experience a magical Christmas and help us raise the spirits at Crumlin Children’s Hospital.

“To do this we have created a ‘Giving Tree’ at our Folk Park entrance building, where visitors and members of the public can donate a gift in aid of CMRF Crumlin Toy appeal, one of our Shannon Group’s chosen charities for 2020.

“This charity is dedicated to providing

vital funding to paediatric research and critical supports to sick children from all over Ireland who attend CHI Crumlin for diagnosis and treatment. We would encourage anyone who would like to drop off a toy to do so at the Folk Park where our staff will be happy to donate your gift to this worthy cause,” said Vanessa McTigue, Head of Commercial Operations for Shannon Heritage.

Set in 26 acres, the fully outdoor walk through Christmas lights trail experience at Bunratty Castle and Folk Park, is a perfect venue for a pre-Christmas celebration.

Pre booking is essential as tickets are limited. The event is capacity controlled and is fully in line with all Covid 19 guidelines.

As Santa has to adhere to social distancing, he will not be able to sit and chat in his grotto with children as he would have done in previous years. He will however be making a whistle-stop visit to the drawbridge of Bunratty Castle to deliver a very special Christmas message before taking off to his workshop in the North Pole leaving his most important personnel in the park to step into the breach in his absence!

Mrs Claus will be holding the fort in the Golden Vale farmhouse as she busily prepares for Christmas. Visitors can enjoy the wonder of the beautifully decorated festive windows of the Corn Barn, where the reindeers are preparing for their jour-

Call & Collect your trees this

Restaurant Opening Times: Thur to Sat from 6.00pm - 9.00pm Closed 24th - Reopening 30th December For more information or to make an enquiry please contact us at: T: 061 360 500 | E: info@carrygerryhouse.com | www.carrygerryhouse.com

These Christmas trees come in a pot, and when minded properly can be used again next year!

DEC 3 2020

33

lights trail to spread festive cheer

ney to the North Pole and the elves are busy making toys in their workshop.

The Folk Park farmhouses will be adorned with traditional candlelight, and the village street will be illuminated for the occasion.

Seasonal characters, including Scrooge, the Grinch, and Jack Frost will be on hand to enthral and entertain young and old as they make their way through this magical festive trail. The Bunratty musicians will add to the wonderful atmosphere in the Folk Park.

Festive illuminated displays including the abominable snowman of Bunratty, the giant Christmas jumper of the Earl of Thomond, the twinkling lights of the Bunratty Polar Express, and a traditional nativity scene, are all on the menu this Christmas season. “As 2020 has been a very challenging year for all of us, we will have a special Christmas Wishing Tree as part of our festive experience. At the Wishing Tree we are encouraging visitors to bring along a special message to place on the tree with their wishes, dreams and hopes for the year ahead,� said Ms McTigue.

Tickets for the pre-booked event can be purchased online on https://www.bunrattycastle.ie/book-tickets/. Information on the event can be found https://www.bunrattycastle.ie/christmas/. For a full list of the CMRF Crumlin Toy Appeal Wish List visit https://cmrf.org/stories/christmas-toy-appeal-wish-list/

Ennis Gourmet Store 1 Barrack St, Ennis, Co. Clare, Tel/Fax: 065 6843314

23 years in business

NOW ONLINE

Order your hampers online at www.gourmet-hampers.ie We deliver to Europe, all over Ireland and free to County Clare

We can tailor make any hamper to individual requirements. We also have the famous Clare Hamper which supports all the local artisan Clare food producers.

34

DEC 3 2020

Christmas swim replaced by month-long dips PÁRAIC MCMAHON paraic@clareecho.ie

AN ANNUAL Christmas Day swim at Lahinch in aid of Samaritans Ennis is to be replaced by a series of individual dips throughout the month of December.

Fundraising activities for Samaritans have ceased since March of this year and they have said this year’s series of swims is vital to provide some financial assistance in the wake of the global pandemic.

An average of 100 phone calls are answered daily by the Ennis branch of Samaritans with volunteers responding to between ten to fifty emails per day from individuals in need or distress or those experiencing loneliness, acting director of the charity in Clare, Richard O’Shea outlined.

“Our branch is in need of funds to try and meet the

shortfall in fundraising and donations. While we will never close our doors, we need funding now to cover our running costs, which includes training new volunteers,” he explained.

This year, the renowned Lahinch Christmas Swim which has been seeing people dive into the cold Atlantic Ocean for the past three decades will donate to Samaritans Ennis and Clare.

Instead of hundreds gathering on Christmas Day for the swim, individual swims will be carried out for the month of December.

Donations are being accepted online via iDonate until January 31st and via cheque to Samaritans Ennis and Clare, Sunville, Kilrush Road, Ennis, Co Clare, V95 V004.

If you or anyone you know, is in need of emotional support, Samaritans can be contacted by freephone 116 123 or by email jo@samaritans.ie.

Pictured: Ger Heath, Ella O’Halloran, and Cora McNulty at last year’s Christmas dip in Lahinch Photo by Michael Kearney

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DEC 3 2020

3 BOOK GIFT IDEAS

C

HRISTMAS is the perfect time to kick back with a book in front of the cosy fire, so we bring you three of this year’s top sellers for a perfect stocking filler.

SPORT: CHAMPAGNE FOOTBALL

(MARK TIGHE & PAUL ROWAN) Over the course of 15 years, John Delaney ran the Football Association of Ireland as his own personal fiefdom. He had his critics, but his power was never seriously challenged until last year, when Mark Tighe and Paul Rowan published a sequence of stories in The Sunday Times containing damaging revelations about his personal compensation and the parlous financial situation of the FAI. Champagne Football is a gripping, darkly hilarious and enraging piece of reporting by the award-winning journalists who pulled back the curtain on the FAI’s mismanagement.

KIDS: GRIME & PUNISHMENT (DAV PILKEY) The next great Dog Man adventure from the bestselling author and artist Dav Pilkey.

You’ll howl with laughter! The Supa Buddies bamboozled the baddies, but all’s not right in the world. Dog Man has a new problem to pound, and he’s going to need his entire pack to help him.

Will he go barking up the wrong tree?

ENNIS MOWERS & CYCLES SALES ď Ž REPAIRS ď Ž SERVICE Gort Road Business Park (065) 684 2300 ECHO BLOWER NOW â‚Ź189

FACTUAL: A GUARDED LIFE (MAJELLA MOYNIHAN) In 1984, Majella Moynihan was a young garda recruit when she gave birth. Charged with breaching An Garda SÏochåna’s disciplinary rules for having premarital sex with another guard, she was pressured to give up her baby for adoption, or face dismissal. Here, for the first time, she tells the full story.

ECHO CHAINSAW NOW â‚Ź269

ECHO HEDGE TRIMMER NOW â‚Ź219

CLEARANCE SALE due to Covid-19 Head Pieces & Fascinators up to

* Costume Jewellery

by ABSOLUTE * Wraps & Scarves * Handbags & Wallets * Clutch Bags * Wedding Gloves & Scarves * Shoe Clips * Hair Pins * Bath Bombs O’Connell Street, Ennis 065 6848500

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35

BIKE TO WORK SCHEME Do you know you can get your bike

36

in Kildysart

DEC 3 2020

Market brings festive cheer STUART HOLLY

A

editor@clareecho.ie

MINI Christmas Market in the centre of Kildysart is creating a wonderful festive feeling in the “extraordinary” village in the heart of the Estuary Way. Annie’s Café is hosting the novel market every Friday and Saturday from 10am-2pm leading up to Christmas in a bid to promote local produce and bring joy to revellers over the festive period.

Visitors are being encouraged to enjoy a hot non alcoholic punch and mince pies as they browse the various stalls at Annie’s Café, where on offer will be a range of local artisan food and organic produce along with Christmas ornaments, hampers and even Christmas trees.

Proprietor of Annie’s Café, PJ Keogh, explained to The Clare Echo that less than two years after establishing the eatery, he was eager to help create something special to mark the end of a challenging year for the local community. Throughout the last 10 months, PJ has been forced to react to Government restrictions and after a successful summer trade he endeavoured to continue offering a takeaway service when Level 5 restrictions kicked in due to the phenomenal support Annie’s received from families in the area.

The Kilmihil native who is known county-wide for his bus company PK Travel, said that “once we got the door open to do takeaways we stuck with it because we have very loyal customers here including elderly people who live on their own and we felt it was a necessity to support them. We couldn’t pull the plug - in all honesty it would have been very easy for us to shut the door but we didn’t.”

Now with Christmas beckoning, Clarecastle resident PJ says that the idea of a market has taken on added significance with the backdrop of the year that’s been endured by people in rural Clare. “When I came here this morning dropping the trees outside the door, you could see the look [of joy] on people’s faces. No more than myself, it’s been a rough time for many people and and I think the onus is on everyone in business to row in, do the best they can and try and make this Christmas as enjoyable as possible for people. I could see the joy from people this morning, especially elderly people. They’re so happy to come in, walk around, smell the candles and have their cup of punch, it takes them out of their home because they’ve been fairly isolated.”

PJ explains that the Market is a “simple idea” where local produce made by local people is front and centre. Baked goods, handmade Christmas crafts and homemade soaps are on offer from Kildysart residents, while the Carrygerry range is also on offer to customers along with wares from Homeland Candles and Achill Salts. “So that’s the basis,” says Mr Keogh, “and of course we have the fresh Christmas Trees - people would

normally have to drive into Ennis but now they can pick them up here.”

Looking ahead to 2021, PJ says he is excited at the prospect of operating at full capacity with his 10-strong staff on board. He notes that Kildysart is one of Clare’s hidden gems that has been “undernourished” to this point in terms of exposure to the tourist market. Having witnessed a large number of cycling groups pass through the town as they traversed the Estuary Way during the summer, he believes that untapped potential is ready to be exploited fully with beautiful scenery and an island-filled estuary on their doorstep. “It’s an extraordinary village. You come here, you’ve got two supermarkets, two butchers, the post office, the credit union, a pizza place, Francie Daly runs the fast food, there’s a pharmacy, the hairdresser, a hardware store, the veterinary place, a drapery shop and three pubs. That’s a lot in one community and then you have us to add to the flavour, it was the one thing that was missing.”

Annie’s Café is open seven days a week and can be contacted at annieskildysart@ gmail.com or by calling (065) 682 6796.

Annie’s Café in Kildysart which is hosting a Christmas mini market and (below) Mary Lawlor at her candle stand Photo by John Mangan

in Kildysart

DEC 3 2020

37

to 'extraordinary' Kildysart

(left) some of the handmade Christmas crafts on offer and (above) Krisztina Benka of Spice creations Photo by John Mangan

FRIDAY & SATURDAY 10am-2pm 27th Nov to 25th Dec

Christmas at Annie's Cafe

2020

A La Carte Christmas Menu Complementary Glass of Prosecco on Arrival 3 courses €30 2 courses €25 Complimentary Tea/Coffee with every €10 meal Annie’s Cafe Christmas Vouchers Available

New A La Carte Christmas Menu Served Friday, Saturday & Sunday Night.

From 6.30 to 9pm.

Pick up and drop off service available for the month of December

(065) 682 6796 SHOP LOCAL, EAT LOCAL SPEND LOCAL, ENJOY LOCAL

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38

in Kildysart

DEC 3 2020

Kildysart a village on the move STUART HOLLY

W editor@clareecho.ie

Customers Eileen Murphy and Morgan Kelly visiting Michaels Centra in Kildysart

Photo by John Mangan

HILE the year 2020 has brought life to a standstill, Kildysart continues to be a village on the move. The main talking point over the last year has been Covid-19 however for a group of dedicated volunteers in Kildysart, the focus remains the betterment of the village nestled in the centre of the Shannon Estuary Way. At the heart of the community is Michaels Centra. Formerly known as Foxy’s Shop, the supermarket was purchased by Cypriot Michael Michaels in 1985 who earlier met his wife Christine, a Kildysart native, in London. Michael moved to Clare to run the shop until he passed the reins to his son Eddie in 2007 when they rebranded as a Centra Store and they haven’t looked back since.

This year the shop has taken on added significance as the focal point for the village and Michael admits it’s been a difficult year for the whole community. Michael is involved in a number of community groups including Kildysart Tidy Towns, Kildysart Village Renewal, the Cemetery, and Community Alert.

He says that the village has managed to buck the trend of struggling rural areas and continues to thrive through community efforts.

He tells The Clare Echo, “I’ve been involved in the community groups since about 1988, and thereafter we were trying to enhance our village so we were entering Tidy Towns, Clare In Bloom which won a few trophies for, and I think we progressed.

The village has been upgraded, it’s the biggest village in the area so we take pride in keeping the village going. It has everything that a person needs, we have two super-

markets, two butcher shops, a chemist, post office, doctor, a vet, two hardware stores, of course we have the church and funeral home.� He notes the importance of various organisations such as the GAA club, soccer club along with the primary and secondary schools in helping to maintain the town’s various services.

While Michael admits that 2020 has been a “challenging year to say the least�, he is positive for the upcoming years and what is in store for Kildysart. Currently the community is working on a 10-year plan through LEADER and he expects this will lead to an improvement in infrastructure of the village, with enhanced footpaths, roads and lighting. “There’s quite a few things that we’re working on; cycling routes, more accommodation for tourists. The area where we are is the Shannon Estuary Way, if you like it’s a mini Atlantic Way. It’s being promoted

by Failte Ireland, Clare County Council and Limerick County Council. The signs are up and we hope it will attract more tourists to come to the area. At the moment we are developing a building at the quay which will house toilets, shower facilities, campervans, it should be finished by early summer.�

The quay is a hive of activity during the summer with an active Currach Club, while there is a picnic area which was developed by the Tidy Towns committee. “It’s a very tranquil area where people can go and have a picnic. We have part of the festival down there so it’s being used quite extensively.� “I can safely say a lot of villages would be happy to have the facilities we have, we wouldn’t change Kildysart for anything.�

Michael adds that he along with his son Eddie and daughter in law Linda would like to thank the Kildysart public for their continued support at Centra and the Michaels family look forward to serving them into the future.

Happy & Safe Christmas to all our customers Opening hours Monday to Saturday 8:30am to 6pm

l FRONTLINE: Claire Crehan, Centra owner Eddie Michaels, Michael Michaels, Lisa Clancy, Carman Crevan and Mary Murphy

Photo by John Mangan

in Kildysart

DEC 3 2020

39

2021 CALENDAR AIMS FOR TIDY PROFIT TADHG HOLLAND

news@clareecho.ie

PHOTOGRAPHER James Truett has made a calendar for the coming year in aid of Kildysart Tidy Towns. The calendar which consists of images from around the Kildysart area is described by Truett as his “love letter to the village�.

James Truett is originally from Alaska and worked at the Seattle bureau of the Associated Press for many years. He began working as a photographer at the age of 13. By the time he was 19 he has been “pretty much published in every newspaper in the free world�.

During his career he travelled throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico, Central America, Ireland and Scotland but now has settled in Kildysart, close to where his grandmother was born.

“The village here has the same kind of vibe as the village I grew up in� said James “there’s a lot of kindness, the community look after its senior citizens. It’s a very vibrant village and of course the work the Tidy Towns does during the summer keeping it looking nice [means] it’s just become a very special place�.

For James the calendar is his way of supporting the community “I created it as a project to raise funds for the local Tidy Towns group one of the things that I do is I do a lot of flower photography and landscape photography and art.

This is just a nice little way to give back to the village�. The Calendar is on sale now and can be purchased at Michael's Centra Kildysart.

The cover of the This Is Kildysart 2021 Calendar and (right) images by James Truett which appear in the December and March pages

(065) 683 2856

40

in Kildysart

DEC 3 2020

l COMMUNITY SPIRIT: (left) the first Christmas tree being sold in Kildysart last Friday and (above) Joe Hogan and PJ Keogh having the banter before their day of business begins

Photo by John Mangan

Wishing you a

NOEL

DECLAN

LENDING IS OUR BUSINESS

065 6828305 loans@stfranciscu.ie www.stfranciscu.ie All Loans Subject to Approval. T&Cs Apply. Warning: If you do not meet the repayments on your loan, your account will go into arrears.

This may affect your credit rating which may limit your ability to access credit in the future. Credit Unions in the Republic of Ireland are Regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland.

LOUIS

in Kildysart

Tourist haven on the Estuary CIAN O’BROIN

S

cian@clareecho.ie

HANNON Estuary Glamping was established

by Frank Power in the interest of tourism development in the Shannon Estuary. In 2000, having worked in broadcasting in London for 12 years, Frank decided to return home to Kildysart to pursue his desire to evolve rural development in the Shannon Estuary region.

Frank was invited to DĂĄil Éireann to give a presentation to the Minister of Transport, Tourism and Sport on the Shannon Estuary Way, with the vision to create a new standalone identity, delineating from that of the Wild Atlantic Way. Applauded by the Minister, he then put the question to Frank as to how he envisaged developing the Shannon Estuary Way. “That was the start of it. I then looked at what needed to be offered. Accommodation immediately stood out. I did some research and came up with the idea of glamping because that was starting to become very popular,â€? Frank comments.

Glamping incorporates all the traditional elements of camping but makes it glamorous, Frank informs.

Comforts such as bed linen, a double bed, electricity and

heating are offered. Shower, toilets, two catering units and a public hangout or Glamping Den with access to the estuary, are all available on site. Traditional fire pits are lit every night by Frank who lives on site and is available to assist at all times. Having been closed for the best part of the year due to Covid, Frank is looking forward to welcoming back customers, having gotten the green light to open on the 18th of December. “We have been very successful since opening considering we are in a remote location between Kildysart and Labasheeda. With social media and referrals, we have had people from all over Europe, America, Canada and Australia. “We never want to over develop here because my principle is always to respect your natural environment. Our development is always going to remain with that ethos in mind.�

Frank references the continual development of the Shannon Estuary Way with cafĂŠs and pottery studios opening up in Kildysart and Labasheeda. Frank affirms that the Estuary Islands are the main focus of development at the moment and has recently completed an audio guide on the Shannon Estuary from Quin Abbey to Kilrush, detailing the history and legends of castles and fortresses speckled along the way. Cycle and

DEC 3 2020

41

l RETREAT: Shannon Estuary Glamping in Labasheeda Photo by Peter McMahon

walking routes are also due to open up, Frank adds. The Shannon Estuary Glamping project was the first which looked at incorporating Limerick and North Kerry in the plan also.

Frank adds a final touch to his vision, stating, “As we move forward it’s not about individual projects here and there, it’s about linking all of them together so that we are uniformed, and community based. We would like to start holding festivals in different areas, river festivals, combining all our communities.�

For more info visit shannonestuaryglamping.com/

JOE HOGAN HARDWARE Get your Christmas lights in store now

Main Street Kildysart, Co. Clare

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42 CLICK FOR CLARE

THURSDAY, DEC 3 2020

SCAN WITH PHONE CAMERA TO SHOP IN COUNTY CLARE EAST CLARE Bia Folláin Healthstore www.biafollain.ie Bridge House Studios bridgehousestudios.ie East Clare Yoga www.eastclareyoga.com Glendara Art www.glendaraar.com Happy Out Forest School happyoutforestschool.ie Inward Bound Mindfulness inwardboundmindfulness.ie Palm Free Irish Soap palmfreeirishsoap.ie Planet Tri www.planettri.ie The Greene Room www.greeneroom.ie Wilde Irish Chocolate wildeirishchocolates. com ENNIS & SURROUNDS BEO Wellness www.beowellness.ie Berka Solutions www.berksolutions.com Blackbird Jewellery www.blackbirdennis.ie Brass Boutique www.brassboutique.ie Bridget Haren Hair www.bridgetharen.com Buckets.ie www.buckets.ie Carestore www.carestore.ie Carmel T Madigan Art carmeltmadigan.com Carries Bakery www.carriesbakery.ie Candles With Character candleswithcharacter.ie Club Dangan & CD2 clubdanganmenswear. com Cornucopia www.cornucopia.fashion County Boutique www.countyboutique.ie Ela Maria Boutique www.elamaria.ie Ennis Art School ennisartschool.com Ennis Blinds www.acmeblinds.com Ennis Electrical www.enniselectrical.ie Ennis Gourmet Store gourmet-hampers.ie Ennis Home Furniture ennishomefurniture.com Fitness4Fun www.fitness4fun.ie Fun Kidz Klub www.funkidzklub.ie GA Sports www.gasports.ie Gift Works giftworksstore.com Jackson’s Pig & Poultry www.jacksonspp.com K2 Hair www.k2hair.ie Kilkenny Shop www.kilkennyshop.com La Jolie Femme www.lajoliefemme.ie Laserderm Clinic www.laserderm.ie

Max Business www.maxservices.ie Meya Boutique meyaboutique.com Mods & Minis www.modsandminis.ie NAIIAD Designer Jewellery www.naiiad.com Neighbourfood www.neighbourfood.ie Nozomi Shoe Boutique www.nozomishoes.ie Quin Art Shop https://quinartshop.com/ Old Ground Hotel oldgroundhotelennis. com Ollie’s Tours www.olliestours.com Pamela Scott www.pamelascott.com Patrick Bourke Menswear patrickbourkemenswear.ie Physio Recovery Room physiorecoveryroom. connect.tm3app.com Rena Casey Lewis art renacaseylewis.net/ Rochfords Pharmacy rochfordspharmacy.ie Risk Assess It www.riskassessit.com Salon Glow www.glow.ie Siar Photography www.siarphotography.ie Smelly Bees www.smellybees.com Strike Sport www.strikesport.org Sweet N Green www.sweetngreen.ie The Candle Emporium www.candleemporium.ie The Record Break therecordbreak.com The Woollen Market thewollenmarket.com The Wine Buff www.thewinebuff.com Tomas O Maoldomhnaigh www.tomasartist.ie/ Vigour www.vigour.ie Water Online www.wateronline.ie Western Herd www.westernherd.com Wix & Wax wixandwaxireland.com Wonder Photo Shop www.fujiennis.ie Wowwee.ie www.wowwee.ie YOU Therapies www.youtherapies.ie

NORTH CLARE Airmid Natural Handmade Skincare www.airmidsoap.com Anam Coffee www.anamcoffee.ie Banner Books http://bannerbooks.ie Burren Smokehouse www.burrensmokehouse.com Celtic T-Shirts www.celtictshirts.ie

Climb It www.climbit.ie Doolin2Aran www.doolin2aranferries.com Doreen Drennan Art doreendrennan.com Doolin Ferry company https://doolinferry.com/ Eko Tree Cashmere ekotreeknitwear.store Folded Leaf www.foldedleaf.ie Glas Grazing www.glasgrazing.ie Healing Hearths healinghearths.com Hitching For Hope hitchingforhope.com Irish Crafts Online irishcraftsonline.com Irish Hand Weaves http://www.irishhandweaves.ie/ Irish T-Shirts www.irishtshirts.ie Kenny Woollen Mills kennywoollenmills.com Lahinch Art Gallery lahinchartgallery.com Lahinch Surf Shop lahinchsurfshop.com Moher Cottege www.mohercottage.com Morrisson Gallery phillipmorrison.com Nature’s Pocket www.naturespocket.ie Rowena Sheen Jewellery www.rowenasheen.com Ruth Vaughan Photography ruthvaughanphotography.com Secret Fashion Fixes secretfashionfixes.ie St Tola Goat Farm www.st-tola.ie Susan Quirke Meditation www.susanquirke.com The Design Lodge www.designlodge.ie The Russell Gallery www.russellgallery.net The Salmon Bookshop www.salmonpoetry.com Tunes From Doolin tunesfromdoolin.com West Clare Flowers westclareflowers.ie SHANNON AREA Ann McBride Design www.annmcbridedesign.com/ Avokado and co avokadoandco.com Back Baller www.backballer.com Carrygerry Country House carrygerryhouse.com Creative Clay creativeclayireland.com Genisis Beauty www.genisisbeauty.net Gleeson Goldsmiths gleesongoldsmiths.ie KMF Eco www.kmf.ie Lavender Beauty www.lavenderbeauty.ie Shannon Springs shannonspringshotel.com

The Inn At Dromoland theinnatdromoland.ie Torpey Hurleys www.torpeyhurleys.com SOUTH EAST CLARE Galanta Jewellery www.galanta.com Hungry Soul hungrysoulplantpower. com I-Spy Clothing www.i-spy.ie JC Safety www.jc-safety.ie ONS Site Support www.onsitesupport.ie WEST CLARE Anchor Crafts anchorcraftskilrush.ie Armada Hotel www.armadahotel.com Carsten Krieger Photography irelandsnaturestories. com Cocolemon Hair www.cocolemon.ie Cottage Garden Centre cottagegardencentre.ie Daisy Days www.daisydays.ie Irish ICE Cards www.irishicecard.ie JJ Corry Irish Whiskey www.jjcorry.com John O’Dwyer Concrete johnodwyerquilty.ie Kilbaha Gallery www.kilbahagallery.com Loophead Alpacas loopheadalpacas.ie Malone’s Pharmacy malonespharmacy.ie Nevsail Watersports nevsailwatersports.ie Nia Natural Beauty nianaturalbeauty.com Riverside Hair & Beauty www.rsbeautyshop.ie Sallyann’s Handmade Bags sallyannsbags.com Sew Irish www.sew-irish.ie Smaointe www.smaointe.com SMT Consultants www.smt.ie The Family Store www.thefamilystore.ie The Pantry Cafe www.pantrykilkee.ie The Perfect Touch Beauty Salon www.theperfecttouch.ie Wild Atlantic Living wildatlanticliving.com Wild Irish Seaweed wildirishseaweeds.com

ENNIS GOURMET STORE A LOCAL SUCCESS STORY CIAN O’BROIN

A

cian@clareecho.ie

NNE Leyden has been running Ennis Gourmet Store for 23 years now. As one of the first gourmet stores in town, the original concept was to bring the best of Irish and continental foods to Ennis. A food scientist by trade, Anne travelled through Europe, Australia and America, tasting the best of what the world had to offer, before deciding to settle in the county town.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Anne discusses how Ennis Gourmet Store budded from humble beginnings to a bustling business renowned for hampers, music and its summertime terrace.

“The first few years were phenomenal,” Anne states, referencing how Ennis Gourmet Store was established as a novel, niche market at a time before supermarkets got in on the gourmet food line. Artisan made and with the finest ingredients, Anne asserts, “You know you are buying a good product that people can stand over.”

Supporting local is one of the key elements in Ennis Gourmet Store’s model and this is strongly reflected in the hampers.

Available from the store and online are Christmas Hampers, Clare

Hampers, Cheese Hampers, Ladies Hampers, Gentleman Hampers and Corporate Hampers amongst many others.

“The Clare Hamper is very popular,” Anne admits. “It contains the best of local Irish food. Inside is smoked salmon, local goat’s cheese, Carrygerry House pudding and Tuamgraney chocolates.

All the products are local and you feel like you are supporting locally too.

It is lovely to give a gift of Clare to somebody.”

Before setting up Ennis Gourmet Store, Anne worked for seven years in the Burren Smokehouse which led to her strong support of local produce.

Anne operates the store with her French partner, David Lasbleye, who worked as a Maitre D in Michelin star restaurants in France, England, and Ireland. Also, on board, are Tom Rafter who has been with the business for about 10 years as well as Frenchman Michel Bonamy, a keen musician.

Ennis Gourmet Store has strong musical ties and Anne propounds that the business seems to attract musicians and various musical events organised on site throughout the year have managed to accrue a large following.

“Our terrace is very well known in the summertime for serving tapas, cheese plates and musical concerts. We usually bring in a jazz band and have various Irish musicians. We do different

little nights,” Anne explains.

Anne made the transition to online trading throughout Level 5 restrictions. Through the support of the Local Enterprise Office’s trading online voucher, Ennis Gourmet Store has been able to display their full complement of hampers online. Anne states, “I found the LEO fantastic.

They helped me from start to finish. This made my business go to different levels. I’m very happy that I did it, it has proven really successful.”

Anne would like to thank everyone who has supported Ennis Gourmet Store, “especially during this difficult time.” Adding that, “It will be lovely to see Ennis full of people again.

If everybody adheres to the public health guidelines, we will be okay.

Let’s hope everyone has a good Christmas and a safe one.”

Hampers are available to purchase directly online and Anne urges anybody that would like to tailor make her hamper to either call into the store or phone the shop at: +353 65 684 3314.

SCAN WITH CAMERA TO SHOP AT ENNIS GOURMET STORE

CLICK FOR CLARE 43

THURSDAY, DEC 3 2020

Myatts keep spark alive New website puts Ballyalla based Candles With Character in the shop window

STUART HOLLY

I

editor@clareecho.ie

N A YEAR which has witnessed major disruptions to events such as weddings, christenings and funerals, a family-run candle company has defied the odds by prospering.

Maureen and Michelle Myatt are the mother and daughter team behind Candles With Character, a producer of personalised candles from their home base in Ballyalla. Maureen took on the business following a chance discussion with her friends Mary Naughton Foley and Barry Foley, owners of The Candle Emporium. With the Foleys deciding to expand their model into a wholesale business, the opportunity to acquire the personalised candle offering came about in early 2018. The relationship continues with The Candle Emporium supplying materials to Candles With Character.

“We changed one room in our home to an office-slash-candle making room,” explains Maureen.

The pair had no business background but with the guidance of the Foleys and a passion to build the business, Candles With Character has grown a strong local customer base in the last two years.

They offer an extremely personalised service to help customers get the perfect end product, with a short turnaround time. All was going to plan until along came 2020’s unique set of challenges.

“Weddings and Christenings would take up most of our time and obviously they’ve been can-

celled for a long time,” explains Michelle, who was forced to postpone her own wedding this year.

The pair admit that while it’s been a challenging year, there has been a silver lining. With no shop front as such, the re-set allowed them to focus on building a new website.

“We always had a website but it wasn’t great, there were a number of issues when it came to design and ordering. Then we got Aimee Mc design [run by Amy McMahon] to produce the new website with the LEO Clare trading online grant. She gave us a new website and tutorials on how to add new products and fix any problems that we had, she’s been great.”

The website went live in June and Maureen and Michelle are seeing the benefits already. “Before we had the website we were promoting everything on Facebook so now we find there aren’t half as many calls or messages on Facebook because people are going straight to the website.”

Michelle, who also works as a nurse at Cois Mara in Spanish Point, adds that the ‘support local’ message appears to be hitting home with the public with an increased interest in Christmas products noted, “Christmas candles have been very popular this Christmas, people have thank God been really good this Christmas, a lot who have rang have just said they want to support local.”

With the potential return to normality predicted by some to arrive next year, Candles With Character are expecting an upturn in fortunes and hope their success will burn long into the future.

SCAN WITH PHONE TO VISIT CANDLES WITH CHARACTER

‘LOOK FOR LOCAL’ PUTS SPOTLIGHT ON CLARE BUSINESS CONSUMERS and businesses in Clare are being encouraged to shop local this Christmas and are reminded of the huge range of goods and services they can access on their own doorsteps with a new Government campaign to ‘Look For Local’ launched in Aras Chontae an Chlair, Ennis.

Mary Howard, Cathaoirleach Clare County Council, Padraic McElwee, Head of Enterprise and Aine Gleeson, WowWee.ie launched the campaign with Local Enterprise Office Clare to encourage shoppers to ‘Look for Local’ this Christmas.

Tánaiste Leo Varadkar said; “We want to remind people that even with restrictions in place, you can still shop local – whether the shops are physically open or selling products through click and collect services.

“It’s been a really tough year for business

owners, their staff and families. I know many people are already looking to support their local business this Christmas. We hope this campaign builds on the upsurge that is already there and encourages people to explore their local retailer this year.”

The Local Enterprise Office Clare ‘Look for Local’ campaign, which is funded by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, in partnership with Enterprise Ireland and the local authorities, aims to highlight small Clare businesses in every sector.

Since January, the Local Enterprise Offices nationally have approved over 11,000 Trading Online Vouchers for small Irish businesses, helping them to create or adapt their online trading presence. Over 12,060 Business Continuity Vouchers to small businesses have also been approved so far this year,

while over 55,000 individuals have received Covid-19 specific mentoring or training from their Local Enterprise Office.

Padraic McElwee, Head of Enterprise said; “This has been one of the most challenging years for Irish businesses in recent history. The Local Enterprise Offices have been working closely with thousands of companies and entrepreneurs to provide financial and training supports to help them navigate these unprecedented times. Now we want to try and encourage more consumers, but also businesses, to look local if they require goods or services.

“If they are looking online, we want them to see if there is someone local who can help them and to try to support the small businesses and jobs in their local communities.

Small businesses across the country have

had to pivot or change their models during this year and now more than ever they deserve our support.”

Cllr Mary Howard added; “Small businesses and retailers are the lifeblood of our cities, towns and villages, providing vital economic activity and employment opportunities. They have faced unprecedented challenges since March and local authorities have been working to support them as much as possible.

We would urge all consumers and businesses to do the same, and to look out for Irish businesses this Christmas.”

The campaign will run for several weeks on media and profiling will continue until the end of the year to encourage people to Look for Local. For more information on the campaign go to www.LocalEnterprise.ie/LookforLocal.

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THURSDAY, DEC 3 2020

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Clare Technology Park key to facilitate extra jobs PÁRAIC MCMAHON

C

paraic@clareecho.ie

LARE Technology Park is viewed as a key site in boosting the employment numbers in the county town.

Fine Gael councillors have already spoken with the Tanáiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Leo Varadkar (FG) on the further potential of the Clare Technology Park located on the Gort Rd in Ennis.

There is approximately 50,000 sq.ft. of high-quality office space across the 35-acre parkland setting.

Starting a conversation between the Tanáiste, Shannon Group and the IDA was identified by Cllr Johnny Flynn (FG) as the next step to attempt to build up steam and interest in the Technology Park.

As he acknowledged the success of Shannon Group and the IDA in attracting employment to Shannon, he urged them to consider Clare Technology Park "as a location in the next phase of planning and development of technological buildings".

Speaking at the November meeting of the Ennis Municipal District, Cllr Flynn stated, "We're in the middle of a pandemic but as elected reps we have to look beyond this and plan for the future". He referenced the planned thirty percent projection growth of Ennis by 2040 in the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy compiled by the Southern Regional Assembly, "this will require a

further 3000 jobs".

Varadkar has committed to raising the matter with the IDA, Cllr Flynn confirmed.

He explained that there is a willingness on behalf of Shannon Group to engage with the IDA. "When you look at the figures for Ennis alongside Tralee and Killarney, they have at a minimum half of the population for job numbers, we're lagging behind and employment is critical.

"For every two jobs created in Ennis, one of them is for a Clare person living outside the Ennis Municipal District, these jobs are crucial for continuing to grow the population of our county," he added.

Ennis needs to be able to provide additional jobs, Cllr Pat Daly (FF) maintained.

"A lot of the jobs will decrease in Shannon, Ennis needs jobs and the facilities are there".

Cllr Mark Nestor (FF) also voiced his support to put an increased focus on the Technology Park.

Cllr Flynn told the meeting he was disappointed his motion was stopped from going before a meeting of Clare County Council by the Corporate Policy Group, a sentiment which was shared by Cllr Paul Murphy (FG).

"I would question the CPG decision. This is a key opportunity site in the Ennis 2040 plan," Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF) commented.

Senior executive officer, Leonore O'Neill believed Shannon Commercial Properties must be communicated with first as part of "a two stage process"."We need to push at a national level for this funding. This would be a very quick win if the Minister is sole minded," Cllr Flynn concluded.

l POTENTIAL: Clare Technology Park is viewed as a key site for employment

Vacant site has potential to transform Buttermarket PÁRAIC MCMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

ENNIS councillors have expressed their view that the Buttermarket area can help to reenergise the town.

Upgrading works of footpaths in the Buttermarket were appealed for by Cllr Mark Nestor (FF) at a recent meeting of the Ennis Municipal District. A section of the footpath between the Grotto and Simms Lane has recently been replaced.

Other sections that also require works "will be undertaken once work crews are available to carry out the works," senior executive engineer Eamon O'Dea confirmed.

Speaking at the November meeting of the Ennis MD, Cllr Nestor outlined the need for a discussion on the future and potential of the Buttermarket to take place.

He acknowledged the input of local residents to maintaining the area but highlighted how their efforts can come undone due to the presence of a vacant site.

"Residents are afraid to leave their door open on warm days for fear water will come down from the vacant site and into their house. A frank discussion is needed on the

future of this site for the town," he said.

Agreement was voiced by Cllr Pat Daly (FF) on the need for works, "it is a lovely old area of the town".

He continued, "Families are very worried about the derelict site. It looks terrible at the moment and looks bad for the town".

Mayor of Ennis, Cllr Paul Murphy (FG) told the meeting he has submitted a report on the derelict site to the planning department. "The area is a credit to the residents for keeping it so well," he said.

l UPGRADE: (right) Simms Lane in Ennis

BUSINESS 45

THURSDAY, DEC 3 2020

BUSINESS

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

Max Business Services accredited All-Star Clare Administrations and Business Solutions Company 2021

STUART HOLLY

A

editor@clareecho.ie

CLARE based business administration solutions business has been recognised for meeting the highest standards of performance, trust and customer centricity.

Max Business Services specialises in finding the best solutions for your business. The business was created to help busy self-employed and small business owners with all aspects of their office administration.

They can take care of your administration from their office or they outsource one of their ex-

perienced staff members to your place of business. While you focus on your work, they look after the administration to ensure that everything is hassle-free for their customers.

Responding to today’s announcement, Mario De Dapper, Managing Director of Max Business Services says, “I am delighted with this accreditation. It is the result of hard work and dedication from the whole team. As the owner of the business, I want to give the best service possible.

This accreditation is a confirmation for the team that their work is being noticed and appreciated. For our customers, this accreditation is proof that we’re working hard every day for them and trying to improve what we do to serve them

better.

Our business is based on trust and confidentiality and this accreditation confirms that.”

This is an independently verified standard mark for indigenous businesses, based on rigorous selection criteria.

The accreditation is overseen by the prestigious All-Ireland Business Foundation, whose adjudication panel is chaired by Dr Briga Hynes of the Kemmy Business School at the University of Limerick and Kieran Ring, CEO of the Global Institute of Logistics.

Dr Hynes said the accreditation, which is now held by over 350 firms, is needed by the thousands of small and medium businesses which operate to their own standards, but have nothing to mea-

Shannon Chamber welcomes new Dunkirk connection STUART HOLLY

editor@clareecho.ie

SHANNON Chamber has welcomed the announcement by DFDS that it is will provide a new daily direct ferry service between Rosslare Europort and Dunkirk from 2 January 2021.

“This is exactly the news that our members and Irish companies generally needed to hear and is an issue that the Chamber along with the Irish Road Haulage Association has been lobbying on for some time.

We congratulate Irish Rail CEO, Jim Meade, Rosslare Europort general manager Glenn Carr, and DFDS, for working tirelessly to make this a reality,” said Shannon Chamber vice-president Eoin Gavin (inset).

As owner of Eoin Gavin Transport, Gavin understands the benefits this direct daily service will offer to current exporters and the many new opportunities it will present.

“This is an issue we, as a Chamber with over 300 member companies, have been discussing with our elected representatives and, as recently as this week, have written to Government requesting that it be given priority attention. Today’s announcement is due to the great work being done by the team at Rosslare Europort who have kept the discussions with DFDS to the fore

resulting in today’s announcement.

“Exporters now have certainty in that they will have a direct route to Europe from 2 January 2021, which will remove the much-dreaded alternative option of having to route goods destined for Europe on trucks through the Irish Sea ports, onwards via road through England and across the English Channel to mainland Europe – via the UK landbridge.

“Delays would have been just one negative aspect of having to do this; the cost implications of having to make transit declarations to UK customs would also have been significant. Having a direct ferry service renders goods as intra-EU with no duty or VAT implications. We retain the status quo and operate as we are doing today with intra-EU deliveries. This means for example, that a company in Shannon exporting goods on a Friday can be guaranteed their arrival at their European destination by latest Monday, guaranteeing speed to market as opposed to not knowing how long a delay they would face if goods were stalled at UK ports.

“A Rosslare to Dunkirk ferry crossing places Irish goods in the heart of Europe and the potential to access key markets in other European counties. We can now say that, in this instance, Brexit has opened up many new possibilities. Friday, 27 November 2020 is a good day for Irish exporters, thanks to DFDS and Irish Rail, though Rosslare Europort,” added Gavin.

sure them by.

“We evaluate a company’s background, trustworthiness and performance, and we speak to customers, employees and vendors.

We also anonymously approach the company as a customer and report back on the experience.

"The business goes through at least two interviews and is scored on every part of the process against set metrics”, she says.

The All-Ireland Business Foundation is responsible for overseeing the All-Ireland Business Summit and All-Star accreditations, Thought Leader accreditations and promoting peer dialogue among members.

The process to select the next group of Business All-Star accredited companies has begun and

further information is available at businessallstars.ie

l GOLD STAR: Max Business Solutions have been recognised for their high standards

46

MOTORING

THURSDAY, DEC 3 2020

MOTORING MOTORING EXPERT NEIL BRISCOE GIVES HIS VIEWS

ELECTRIC DREAMS CAN COME TRUE

VW’S BIG-GAMBLE ID.3 ELECTRIC CAR MIGHT BE THE MOST SIGNIFICANT CAR OF THE DECADE

2

VOLKSWAGEN ID.3 FIRST EDITION

020 has been a pretty appalling year for most of us, but I’m not here to rehash anyone’s opinion or argument about Covid-19 and the fallout thereof. No, I’m here to remind you all that 2020 — rotten year though it’s been — is also the beginning of a brand new decade, a second Roaring Twenties perhaps.

And it’s just possible that we’ve already driven that decade’s most important new car.

The Volkswagen ID.3 was, in itself, born from disaster. In the aftermath of the hugely damaging revelations that VW had been cheating on its emissions tests, the gigantic car maker decided that the only appropriate Mea Culpa was to dramatically accelerate the development of new electric cars. While arguments will and do rage over the emissions from making batteries, and generating electricity, at least, reckoned VW, if we’re taking the emissions out of cars then we’re on the right path. A path already well-trodden, of course, by the likes of Nissan with its Leaf and Tesla with its models S and X. Five years on from that diesel debacle, here is the ID.3, not only powered by batteries but also riding on an entirely new platform, designed only for electric propulsion.

While other car makers say that combining the development of electric car chassis with those for petrol and diesel models is the only thing that makes sense, VW disagrees, and says that only a bespoke platform for EVs is good enough. And it’s looking more and more like VW has gotten it right.

Standing in front of you, the ID.3 looks surprisingly chunky. It’s actually only 4.2-metres long, pretty much exactly the same as a Golf hatchback, but the roof is

taller, and at 2.7-metres, the ID.3’s wheelbase is quite a bit longer.

Slip inside and you’ll find lots of space.

That, combined with the relatively shallow windscreen angle and the big gap between the back of the instrument panel and the base of the windscreen means that there’s more than a faint hint of MPV, almost of Renault Espace, about the cabin of the ID.3. In styling terms it’s very pared back, with hardly any physical buttons and two screens — a big one in the middle for the infotainment and air conditioning, and a smaller one behind the wheel that takes care of the speedo, range, and some of the sat-nav duties. There’s a chunky gear selector next to the instrument panel, slightly like that of the BMW i3. It has a very satisfying action.

As you sit in, as long as the key is in your pocket, the ID.3 is already powering up, so you just put your foot on the brake pedal with its self-referential ‘pause’ logo (the accelerator has a ‘play’ logo), twist the gear selector to D and off you go.

Silently of course. The ID.3’s 204hp electric motor is actually rear-mounted, making this — kinda sorta — the first mainstream rear-engined VW family car since the Beetle. With 310Nm of torque on tap, it’s pretty brisk at low-to-medium speeds, and with a 7.3sec 0-100km/h time, you’re never going to feel short-changed in the power department.

Range? Well, it’s the critical thing for an electric car right now, but the news is very, very good here. Our test car had the 58kWh battery pack (both smaller and larger packs with eventually be available) and has a quoted maximum one-charge range of 419km. On a full charge, we were easily able to squeeze better than 300km from the ID.3 when driving at the legal limit on the motorway — normally the hardest task for an electric car — and we reckon that around 400km should be

easily do-able if your daily drive is more focused on town or country roads. The official electrical consumption rate is quoted at 16.9kWh per 100km. You should get 18kWh/100km in daily driving.

And that will be enjoyable driving too.

Now, it would be easy to get swept up in the combo of 204hp, rear-engine, and rear-wheel drive and assume that the ID.3 is going to be some sort of Porschelike drift weapon that can torture a set of tyres to death. Well, it’s not. In fact, the ID.3 is resolutely un-sporty. That said, it’s also rather satisfying. The combination of steering weight and response (if not actual feedback), the stabilising effect of the long wheelbase, and the apparent witchcraft in which VW has dabbled to get the ID.3 to ride so comfortably on 19-inch wheels, all add up to time behind the wheel that’s actually hugely enjoyable. All the more so because you’re not looking, sweatily, at the range-to-recharge figure.

Faults? A few. The software that controls the screens is glitchy and annoying, but VW says that updates and improvements are on the way. There are some cheap feeling fixtures in the cabin, but VW says ditto. And of course the public charging network remains sparse and unreliable but there’s little enough VW can do about that.

Model tested: Volkswagen ID.3 1st Plus

FACTS & FIGURES

Pricing: ID.3 1st from â‚Ź33,715 on-theModel tested: Volkswagen ID.3 1st Plus road (including SEAIâ‚Ź33,715 grant,on-the-road VRT rebate Pricing: ID.3 1st from (including SEAI grant, VRT rebate and and delivery) delivery) Electric system: rear-mounted electric motor, 58kWh battery pack Electric system: rear-mounted electric Transmission: single-speed automatic, rear-wheel drivebattery pack motor, 58kWh Body style: five-seat, five-door hatchback CO2 emissions: 0g/km (Band A0, â‚Ź120 per annum) Transmission: single-speed automatic, WLTP range: 419 kilometres as tested rear-wheel drive Maximum charging capacity: 100kW Top speed: 160km/h 0-100km/h: 7.3 seconds Power: 204hp Body style: five-seat, five-door hatchTorque: 310Nm back Boot: 385-1,267 litres

Other good news, though, is that Volkswagen claims that the ID.3 leaves the factory already carbon-neutral thanks to the use of renewable energy in the factory that makes it. That puts it ahead of many rivals, whether petrol or battery-powered, and its combination of talents makes for a hugely satisfying car, electric or otherwise. Does that make it the most significant of the decade?

We shall see.

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MOTORING 47 MOTORING 29

THURSDAY, DEC 3 2020

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48

MOTORING

THURSDAY, DEC 3 2020

MOTORING MOTORING EXPERT NEIL BRISCOE GIVES HIS VIEWS

SKODA’S ENYAQ EV IS NOW OPEN FOR DEPOSITS

€1,000 DEPOSIT GETS YOU A PLACE IN THE ENYAQ QUEUE

S

KODA’S first electric vehicle, the Enyaq iV is set to arrive in Ireland next June, with pre-grant prices starting from €46,570 for the Enyaq 60 and €54,630 for the Enyaq 80.

All Enyaq vehicles are priced exclusively with a three-year service and tyre plan. Skoda has also welcomed the recent grant confirmation from the SEAI for EVs next year. Up to €7,800 of grants and incentives are available to Enyaq iV customers in 2021.

Demand is expected to outstrip supply with only 350 Enyaq iV units available in 2021. For this reason, combined with the Covid-19 restrictions on showroom visits, Skoda has decided to launch an online deposit reservation process or pre-booking as it is commonly known.

The order books opened for the Enyaq on Thursday 26th November, at 9am, allowing prospective customers to pay a refundable €1,000 deposit to secure priority ordering access to the earliest vehicles. Skoda has confirmed that each depositor is not guaranteed an Enyaq iV in 2021, as production is limited and vehicles will be allocated on a firstcome, first-served basis. Skoda has stressed, how-

ever, that all deposits will be returned at the end of the process whether an Enyaq iV is ordered or not. After paying an online deposit, customers will be contacted in January/February by their selected dealer who will support them through the purchase process, with the first customers expected to receive vehicles in June.

Commenting on the Enyaq iV process, Ray Leddy, Head of Marketing and Product, Skoda Ireland, said: “We are very excited about the imminent arrival of the Skoda Enyaq iV. In the past Skoda has had challenges delivering sufficient volumes of product due to excessive demand. Most recently, with the new Octavia and before this the Kodiaq.

With Skoda showrooms closed due to Covid-19 restrictions and many of our customers preferring to shop online, it makes sense to launch this initiative at this time. Skoda Enyaq iV price and specification information is now available on our website so customers can research the product before paying a deposit. I would like to thank Volkswagen Financial Services, who are supporting us by providing a safe online environment for our customer transactions.”

THE ALL-NEW ŠKODA

OCTAVIA

A CLASSIC REIMAGINED

Al Hayes ŠKODA, Gort Road, Ennis, Co. Clare.

Tel: 065 682 2400 • www.alhayesskoda.ie WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure) combined fuel consumption for OCTAVIA in l/100km range from 6.1 to 3.9. WLTP combined CO2 emissions in g/km range from 138 to 102.

Sport Clare Echo THE

03-12-20

pg 49

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McGuane & Chaplin contest Redzer takes win in final for Reddan of Killaloe for role of GAA Chairman

T

WO names will go before the clubs of Clare for the position of Chairman of Clare GAA, writes Páraic McMahon. Outgoing Vice Chairman PJ McGuane of Cooraclare and Cratloe County Board delegate Jack Chaplin will contest for the role of Chairman. O’Callaghans Mills’ Joe Cooney has completed his five year term.

Former Munster Council and Clare Chairman Robert Frost (O’Callaghans Mills) and current Crusheen Chairman Michael O’Connor had been nominated for the post but have confirmed to The Clare Echo they have withdrawn from the contest.

Frost was Chairman when Ger Loughnane was appointed senior hurling manager and Clare won a first All-Ireland SHC title in 81 years. He became secretary of his own club aged 17 and remained in the role for 10 years. He is the Co Board delegate for his club. Robert was an unsuccessful candidate for the GAA Presidency in 2017. He lost out to Simon Moroney at last year’s Convention for the role of Central Council Delegate while in the political scene he came up short as Fianna Fáil members of the Shannon Comhairle Ceanntair voted for Pat O’Gorman to fill the seat on Clare Co Council vacated by Cathal Crowe TD in 2020.

Following a meeting of the Clare GAA Executive on Wednesday last, O’Connor issued correspondence to clubs to outline he would not let his name go forward for Chairman. He cited his role as Gaelic Games Officer with NUIG and the fact he will be “engaging in a masters in health promotion” at the University plus his efforts as Chairman of Crusheen as reasons not to contest for county Chair.

The 2020 Clare GAA Convention will be held virtually on Tuesday December 15. There will be a contest for Vice Chairman with four names in the ring, Kieran Keating (Naomh Eoin), Neil O’Brien (O’Callaghans Mills), Niall Romer (Kilmaley) and Michael Maher (Kilmaley). There will also be a contest to elect two delegates to represent the county at Munster Council. Current delegate John Fawl (Ennistymon), ex Treasurer Bernard Keane (St Josephs Doora/Barefield) and All-Ireland winner Niall Gilligan (Sixmilebridge) are the nominees. Naoise Jordan (Whitegate) and Michael Lee (Tubber) are nominated to become President of Clare GAA.

Watch LIVE on RPGTV this Saturday from 6pm, Sky Channel 175, Freesat 176 www.ShelbourneParkGreyhoundStadium.ie

REDZER Regera owned by Killaloe’s Pat Reddan had reason to celebrate after claiming one of the highlight wins on Leger Night over the weekend.

Following up on a strong finish in the semi-final, Redzer Regera produced the goods once again to land the €2,100 first prize in the final of The Limerick & Clare GOBA A3 525 Sweepstake at the Limerick Track on Saturday night.

Redzer Regera was outpaced on the run to the opening corner as Bellagors Rebel in trap one flew up the inside to take control.

Trailing the field at this point, Redzer Regera made the most of her inside pitch in two and slipped into second upon entrance to the back straight. Two lengths clear down the back, Bellagors Rebel was setting a frantic gallop out in front but Redzer Regera wasn’t to be denied and the daughter of Kinloch Brae and Redzer Ruby produced another powerful finish to claim a length and a half victory.

The time was a smart 28.71.

Trainer John Browne of Ballyea made the long trip to Shelbourne Park on Saturday night very worthwhile where he sent out Own Spice to win the third semi final of the barkingbuzz.ie A0/ A1 600. Owned by Thomas O’Doherty of Cooraclare, Own Spice set a strong standard when running clear of his rivals in this final heat.

The son of Skywalker Puma and Coolavanny Spice relished the longer run to the turn and he quickly moved into a clear advantage and eventually won by two and a half lengths in 32.43.

There was just one night’s racing at the Galway Track last week with Friday night’s 12 race card headlined by the A2 graded tenth contest over 525 yards. In this it was Fast Fit Limit owned

by Gort’s John Quinn and trained by Martin Fahy that lifted the pace at the finish to close home to score by three parts of a length in 28.85.

In race two, the title for the N3 graded 350 yards contest was the ‘Covid 19 Guidelines 350’ so it was appropriate that the contest

went to the aptly named Glasheen Covid who got the better of Both Barrels by half a length at the line in 19.42.

The N3 Graded 525 Yards fourth contest went to the John Browne of Ballyea owned Glasheen Sydney as won by two and a quarter lengths in 29.48.

The Niall O’Riordan owned Non Stop registered her ninth career success in race six which was an S6 graded contest as she proved two and a half lengths too good for Hut Pool in 19.48.

Hut Pool broke smartly out wide but the Stephen Murray of Sixmilebridge trained Non Stop showed plenty of pace towards the inside to lead by two lengths at the opening bend. Tracking well between the two bends Non Stop was in control entering the home straight as she stayed on well for a comfortable victory.

The outcome of race seven was in little doubt from an early stage as the Carl Maguire of Kilrush owned Wood Bell never saw another rival as he stormed to a six length win over Gracie Baby in 29.35.

03-12-20

Clare Echo THE

pg 50

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ALL-IRELAND INTERMEDIATE LADIES FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP: SEMI FINAL Compiled by Páraic McMahon

Supreme Meath eliminate Clare Meath 4-13 Clare 0-04 Venue: MW Plant Hire O’Moore Park, Portlaoise MEATH Frees For: 14 (4/10) Wides: 2 (1/1) Scores from Play: 2-07 Spread of scorers: 9 Top scorer: Stacey Grimes (2-6 2’Pen 4f) Own kick-outs won: 12 from 13 (92%) CLARE Frees For: 20 (13/7) Wides: 7 (1/6) Scores from Play: 0-01 Spread of scorers: 2 Top scorer: Grainne Nolan (0-03 3f) Own kick-outs won: 12 from 19 (63%)

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

PLAYER WATCH ROISÍN CONSIDINE (WING BACK, CLARE) Possessions: 20 (12/8) Passes: 16 (9/7) Long Passes: 0 Short Passes: 16 (9/7) Hand Pass: 14 (7/7) Foot Pass: 2 (2/0) Turn Overs: 0 Turned Over: 1 (1/0)

EAMONN MURRAY, MEATH MANAGER “The two goals at the start of the game would kill any team, we know how good Clare are, we’ve been watching them for years. I was minor manager the year they beat us by a point and they’ve a lot of that team playing now whereas we only have three. We thought we were going to get an outrageous battle here today but we got on top and a few decisions went against them, we got two penalties and they were penalties but they came at a wrong time for Clare. We’ve been playing like this all throughout the league, it came back in time thank God, Down should have beaten us early on because we didn’t play well but it was the best thing that happened us. We have a good panel”.

“Don’t forget Meath have a massive pick, we have 6,000 players and Clare wouldn’t have half that, that is huge, very few teams in the country have that and we need to be winning, if we’re not winning we shouldn’t be in our job, the minors won Leinster last year for the first time in 20 years, underage was very good last year, we have to start winning All-Irelands or we’ll get sacked”.

“I listened to Clare FM last night and some of the interviews, I feel they were making an awful big deal of it, we kept a very low profile and did no big interviews, that is what we want.

I know it will be a tough drive home for Clare, they trained just as hard as we did that, James is a pure gentleman, it is a tough day but we’ve all been through it, it is how he pulls out of it and bounces back, football can be very cruel or very good”.

Shots: 1 Scores: 0-00 Wides: 0 Dropped Short: 0 Saved: 1 Tackles: 1 (1/0) Blocks: 1 (1/0) Frees Won: 0 Frees Lost: 0

JAMES MURRIHY, CLARE MANAGER “We didn’t perform and from the first five or six minutes the concession of early goals were sloppy mistakes, we hadn’t been making those mistakes early on in games and from that end we were chasing our tail. Meath play a very counter-attacking game, they get players behind the ball and break at speed, when we were six or seven points down to go chasing the game we left holes at the back to get ourselves back in the game and to be fair to Meath they are a good team and they punished us for that”.

“Meath have had two days in Croke Park, they are well used to playing in these days but in an overall sense I couldn’t have asked any more of the girls. I would like to hope on a bigger scale that they would learn from it”.

“On a broader scale we were the last Clare team standing so there was a lot of eyes on us, those eyes multiplied during the week with all the media coverage behind us. It’s disappointing for us as a management and the girls that we didn’t perform, hopefully it will be lessons learned and they will learn from today, it is a sobering day and hopefully they will take those lessons and drive on, if they stick together they can put it right pretty quick because they probably have five or six weeks off before they are back on the horse again”.

“For the next week or two as a management you need to take stock and also the players as well. Everyone needs to switch off from football, as I said during the week our first meeting was on the 15th of October 2019 and it’s well almost 14 months ago so I think everybody needs a break for the next couple of weeks”.

Colm Collins is undecided

OUTGOING Clare senior football manager Colm Collins has yet to decide whether or not to seek another term in charge, writes Seamus Hayes. Speaking to The Clare Echo on Tuesday he said “I have yet to make a decision on that”.

Arguably Clare’s most successful manager, he guided the team to retaining their Division 2 league status for a fifth season in 2020. There had been high hopes amongst Clare football followers this year that the team would qualify for the provincial senior championship final but they suffered a one goal loss to Tipperary in the opening round.

Since then Tipperary have gone on to capture the title, their first in eighty five years.

In the days after Clare’s championship defeat, several players called on the Cratloe clubman to continue in the role of team manager and they remain confident that he will take on the task for an eighth season.

St Joseph Miltown’s Gordon Kelly has announced his retirement this week and told The Clare Echo that Collins was the first man he contacted to notify him of his decision.

The Clare team prior to kick-off Photograph: Burren Eye Photography

Minor boss Coffey replaced as new management named SEAMUS HAYES additional reporting by Páraic McMahon

CLARE minor hurling manager Brian Coffey is stepping down from the role after one year in charge “due to unforseen family commitments”.

Speaking to The Clare Echo this week, Coffey expressed the hope that he “will return to management in the future. The last four years (with this year’s minor group) have been a fantastic experience, learning from great coaches and improving my management skills”.

According to the Tipperary native, 2020 “was a huge challenge from a management perspective and the uncertainty was the biggest challenge”. A change to the format of the minor championship was described as disappointing by the Banner clubman. “It went from a round robin format to a knock out championship. We were looking forward to having four games which would have been of great benefit to the players and their development.”

He felt a cohesive approach is needed within Clare GAA. “Everyone needs to work together. There has to be a Clare first mentality. There is a lot of good work being done and we must put aside our differences and work for the betterment of Clare hurling”.

Meanwhile Terence Chaplin and James Carrig will be appointed as joint managers of the Clare minor hurlers, The Clare Echo has learned while Sean Doyle is to stay in charge of the U20 hurlers.

Both men were part of Brian Coffey’s large management team this year which oversaw Clare suffer a 12-point Munster quarter-final defeat to Cork.

Former manager of the Sixmilebridge intermediate hurlers and several successful underage sides in the club, Chaplin was one of the prominent members of the management side this year.

He will be joined as joint manager by Newmarket-on-Fergus native James Carrig. He was in charge of the Wolfe Tones side that claimed the 2015 Munster club intermediate title and spent the past three seasons in charge of the Crusheen se-

nior hurlers.

Barry Coffey, coach of the Ballyea side that won the 2018 Clare SHC title is to come on board as a coach alongside Alan Duggan who was involved with the threein-a-row All-Ireland winning Clare U21 teams from 2012 to 2014. Pa McEvoy a former member of the Clare senior hurling backroom team and strength and conditioning coach with the Newmarket-on-Fergus senior hurlers this year is set to be the team’s S&C coach.

Bodyke’s Sean Doyle is set to continue as manager of the Clare U20 hurlers for a third season, following a two-year stint with the minors. During his first year in charge of the minors, Clare exited at the All-Ireland quarter-final stage while in 2018 they recorded one win in four games. In the U20 championship, Clare lost out to Cork (2019) and Tipperary (2020).

H was joined on his management this year by Jim McInerney (Tulla), Ger Rodgers (Scariff), Evan Kilroy (Gort), Val Murnane (Caherline) and Jamie Fitzgibbon (Crusheen).

pg 51

03-12-20

Clare Echo THE

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Retirement ‘hard to accept’ for Kelly PÁRAIC MCMAHON paraic@clareecho.ie

C

Gordon Kelly in action this year

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

LARE’S most experienced footballer, Gordon Kelly has called time on his 15 year inter-county career.

Recruited to the senior football panel by then joint managers Donie Buckley and Michael Brennan, Gordon made his first appearance against Carlow in a challenge match in December of 2005 and his final bow 15 years later as Clare exited the Munster championship to eventual provincial winners Tipperary.

Gordon was an ever-present member of Clare’s backline, featuring in the 2012 Munster final defeat to Cork but also enjoying brighter days including the county’s promotion from Division 3 and 4 of the National Football League under Colm Collins and their run to the All-Ireland SFC quarter-finals in 2016.

He informed Collins of his decision to retire two weeks ago and made sure the Cratloe clubman was the first to know. “It is something that builds up in you a little bit you know, at this stage of my life. I will be 38 next year, I’ve two kids and life catches up with you. I would play on for eternity if I could but the body and life keeps moving.

“It is hard to accept it, the body makes the decision for you but you have to accept the way things are. I always loved playing for Clare, I’ve been dreading this day for a long

time but it comes to everybody,” Gordon told The Clare Echo. He will continue to line out for Miltown.

Remarkably despite being one of Clare’s top defenders at senior, the software engineer never had the privilege of representing his county at minor or U21. “Maybe I wasn’t good enough at the time,” he laughs.

Kerry’s David Clifford who is regarded as one of the top footballers in the country has listed Gordon as his toughest opponent. A member of the Kingdom side since 2018, he already has two All Stars to his name but in two battles with Kelly, he scored just three points from play.

“He’s tough, he’s very experienced, he’s cute we’ll say. He’s been the toughest I’ve marked to be honest with you,” Clifford said of Kelly.

Plaudits are not high on Gordon’s agenda but he noted that the comment may be appreciated in the years ahead. “There is no doubt that David Clifford is a great footballer but you don’t pay much attention to stuff like that, maybe it is something you can bounce off the kids when they are older to make them realise you weren’t always an old man.”

Reflecting on his county career, Gordon pinpointed their 2016 and 2019 championship campaigns as highlights. “Any day when you get a good championship win is very enjoyable, particularly meeting the supporters and your family on the pitch, being able to share those moments. We get to play the games but it wouldn’t be possible without the support from partners, girlfriends,

wives, like I’ve had great support from Neasa,” he says, speaking about his wife Neasa, corner back on the Corofin camogie side that contested the 2010 All-Ireland club intermediate decider.

Strength and conditioning expertise from coaches such as Rob Mulcahy, Keith Hennessy, Chris Delooze and Michael Cahill plus the physiotherapists involved with Clare helped to prolong Kelly’s career as he bucked the trend with regard to the average age of inter-county players. “They put a lot of emphasis into speed work and keeping you fast and injury free. Without the support of the S&C and an excellent physio team it would have been impossible to play into this stage.”

“There’s an awful lot that I’m going to miss. Playing for your county is a fantastic experience, the commitment is overstated sometimes to be honest, if you look at it you’re gone off and you’re meeting friends, you’re doing training and something you love five days a week, it is fantastic and for any young lad if they get the opportunity to go play county it is something they should be aspiring to because you get access to the best coaches, the best set-ups and you get to challenge yourself against the best footballers in training and in matches,” the father of two said.

Already his place in the annals of football in Miltown is secured in being the first man to captain the club to successive Clare SFC titles and he will be remembered fondly for his contribution in the saffron and blue.

Nugent signs contract U19 women’s team of the year

TWO Clare footballers have left Galway Utd while another has signed a new contract. Galway Utd have confirmed that Maurice Nugent (right) has signed a new contract with the club that will see him head into his seventh season at Eamonn Deacy Park.

Nugent formed a centre-half partnership with Killian Brouder last season. Manager John Caulfield described the 22 year old as “an unsung hero. He just goes about his business and is a thorough professional”. Caulfield added, “Maurice has pace, he’s excellent in the air, and he’s got a fantastic attitude. He’s only 22 and he’s a player I see massive potential in.”

Over the last three seasons, Nugent has operated at rightback, centre-back, and also in the middle of the park for United. The defender has set his sights on making the centre-back spot his own in 2021. “I think in the past my versatility has gone against me a bit, I’ve been between a few positions. It was nice to find my position this year, I think it’s a big thing to settle, then it’s easy when you get a run of games and you feel more comfortable playing in that role,” the Barefield native said.

As Nugent commits to the club, both Jack Lynch and Joe Collins have seen their stay with Galway Utd come to an end. Their departures “for various reasons” were confirmed by a spokesperson for the Tribesmen.

A two-time Oscar Traynor medallist, Joe joined the club in January last year from Galway District League Premier Division side West United. The 26 year old made 13 appearances in last season’s First Division. Explaining his exit, Shannon’s Lynch said it was due to circumstances “with work and the new training schedule”.

CLUBS from the CDSL U19 Women’s League have selected their team of the season.

Burren Utd have the biggest representation on the team with five players selected followed by three from Hermitage FC, two from Tulla Utd and one from Corofin Harps.

Frankie Burke, CDSL Women’s Officer was pleased with the progress of the sport in Co Clare.

“It has been a difficult season for all sport clubs, however we are delighted to acknowledge the efforts of the players this season. The CDSL Women's leagues, U19 and Senior, have been going from strength to strength over the last few years, with more clubs and teams getting involved”.

Beginning next year, LIT Sports Management have engaged with the CDSL, to promote the women's game in Clare, and to work with clubs who are interested in joining the league.

An awards night will be held for the players when it is deemed safe to do so.

TEAM: 1: Sarah Gillian (Burren Utd) 2: Jessica Roughan (Hermitage) 3: Sinead Conway (Hermitage) 4: Labhaoise Mullins (Corofin Harps) 5: Niamh Melody (Tulla Utd) 6: Aimee Burke (Burren Utd) 7: Karen O’Sullivan (Tulla Utd) 8: Amidat Karimu (Hermitage) 9: Sally King (Burren Utd) 10: Lisa Shannon (Burren Utd) 11: Orlaith Petty (Burren Utd)

52 CLASSIFIEDS

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PLANNING 53

THURSDAY, DEC 3 2020

PLANNING NOTICES Clare County Council Further Information/Revised Plans Planning Ref: P20/593 Development Description: Permission for development, the development consist of the construction of a slatted unit and associated site works.

Location: Keellhilla, Carron, Co. Clare.

Take notice that Frank Kelly has lodged significant further information in respect of planning application P20/593 . This information and 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, Planning Department, Áras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare during its public opening hours.

A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, not later than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority or in the case of a planning application accompanied by an EIS within 5 weeks of receipt of such notices by

the planning authority.

Clare County Council Breaffy South, Miltown Malbay Take notice that M. O’Neill intends to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to demolish existing sheds + to erect slatted unit and machinery shed 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 Stonehall, Newmarket on Fergus, Co. Clare Take notice that Emmett Flannery intends to seek full planning

CLASSIFIEDS

permission for a one storey dwelling house and garage with wastewater treatment system and polishing filter and associated site works. 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 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 five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

Clare County Council Further Information / Revised Plans Planning Ref: P20/177 Development Description: proposed change of use from haybarn/storage shed to new abattoir, proposed change of use from agriculture use to fridges, cold store and dispatch area. Proposed retention of new offices, lean-to building as part of abattoir and first floor plant room with existing connections to septic tank and ancillary effluent storage tank and provision of additional waste water storage tank.

Location: Summerhill, Old Cratloe

Road, Meelick Lower, County Clare Take notice that Edward Joyce has lodged significant further information in respect of planning application P20/177.

This information and 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, Planning Department, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, not later than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority or in the case of a planning application accompanied by an EIS within 5 weeks of receipt of such notice by the planning authority.

Clare County Council Grengan West tld., Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare.

Take notice that ; Melina Sharp Intends to apply to the Planning Authority for Permission to construct a farm house, wastewater treatment

THANKSGIVING THANKSGIVING. ST. JUDE. Most Holy Apostle St. Jude faithful servant & friend of Jesus. The Church honours & invokes you universally as the patron of hopeless cases, of matters almost despaired of. Pray for me I am so helpless & alone. Make use I implore you of that particular privilege given to you, to bring speedy help where help is almost despaired of. Come to my assistance in this great need that I may receive the consolation & help of Heaven in all my necessities, tribulations & sufferings & that I may praise God with you & all the Elect forever. I promise O Blessed St. Jude to be ever mindful of this great favour to always honour you as my special & powerful patron & to gratefully encourage devotion to you.

Amen.

This prayer must be said for 9 consecutive days & published immediately & in 3 days the favour will be granted.

system and associated site works at Grengan West tld., Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare.

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 Kilmore, Co. Clare I, Michael A. Burke, Main Street, Pallaskenry Co. Limerick (Tel: 061-220851) intend to apply to the above-named Planning Authority for permission to construct a dwelling house, large basement garage, entrance, wastewater treatment system, and associated site works at Kilmore, Co. Clare on behalf of Michael Mullally.

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 Offices, New Road, Ennis Co. Clare 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. The planning authority may grant permission subject to, or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Clare County Council, Miltown House Convent, Spanish Point, Miltown Malbay, Co. Clare.

Take notice that S. Dennehy & S. Vaughan intend to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to change the use of a convent to a single habitable house for private use along with ancillary 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.

LICENCE APPLICATION AN CHUIRT DUICHE THE DISTRICT COURT NO. 66.1 GAMIN AND LOTTERIES ACT 1956 SECTION 15 APPLICATION FOR A CERTIFICATE DISTRICT COURT AREA OF ENNIS DISTRICT NO. 12 CHRISTOPHER MURPHY AS NOMINEE OF COALQUAY LEISURE LIMITED APPLICANT TAKE NOTICE that the above named Applicant of 21, Academy Street in the City of Cork will apply to the Court sitting at The Courthouse, Ennis, Co. Clare on the 16th day of December, 2020 at 10.30 am for a certificate under Section 15 of the Gaming and Lotteries Act, 1956 (No. 2 of 1956) authorising the issue of a licence permitting gaming at an amusement hall namely at property situate at Part of ground Floor, Merchants Square, Curtins Lane, Parnell Complex, Parnell Street, Ennis, Co. Clare.

The number and kinds of games proposed to be carried on are as follows: • 13 Gaming Machines • The other forms of amusement to be provided are as follows: 2 Amusement Games.

The Applicant is not disqualified by Section 8 of the said Act from the promotion of gaming under Section 6 or Section 7 thereof.

Date this 5th day of November, 2020 Signed: Murphy and Condon Solicitor for the Applicant 69 Shandon Street North Gate Bridge Cork TO:

The District Court Clerk., The Courthouse, Lifford Road, Ennis Co. Clare

AND/

Corporate Affairs Department Clare County Council,

New Road, Ennis,

County Clare AND/

Chief Superintendent, An Garda Siochana Ennis Garda Station,

Abbey Street, Lifford, Ennis,

Co. Clare

AND/ The Chief Fire Officer,

Clare County Council

New Road, Ennis,

Co. Clare.

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The Clare Echo Crossword ACROSS 1 Mark as correct (4) (8) JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG3 Barely SEP adequate OCT NOV 9 Ruled (7)

10 Growing old (5) 11 Ernie (anag.) - girl’s

Solve (/games/best-daily-word-search/?

7 November: World name (5) now puzzleDate=20191107) Rivers 12 Cotton fabric (6)

14 Breathe in (6) 16 Loud piercing cry (6)

More Puzzles 19 Threefold (6) . Amazon ()

21 Italian sauce (5) . Arno () 24 Incorrect (5)

. Avon () 25 In attendance (7) 26 Emphasised (8) . Clyde ()

27 Object of worship . Congo () (4)

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2 Felony (5) 4 Kidnap (6) 5 Shoulder-wrap (5) 6 Type of light soft roll (7) 7 Poultry products (4) 8 Ailing (6) 13 Deathless (8) 15 Haven (7) 17 Imitated (6) 18 Folk (6) 20 Young attendants (5) 22 Horse for riding (5) 23 Nocturnal birds (4)

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QUIZ 55

THURSDAY, DEC 3 2020

The Clare Echo Quiz

Daniel O’Connell was elected 1by-election, to Parliament in the 1828 Clare the first openly Roman

Catholic to do so. But what party did he represent?

Tory, Labour, Radical

Ennis man Moosajee Bhamjee 2 (Labour) was Ireland’s first Muslim Teachta Dála (TD). What is his profession?

Postman, Barista, Psychiatrist

Sinn Féin candidate Éamon 3 de Valera won The East Clare by-election of 1917. Which Irish Clare politician did he defeat?

Patrick Lynch, Arthur Lynch, Willie Redmond

l NEWMARKET NATIVE: President Michael D Higgins grew up in Newmarket on Fergus. But which school did he attend?

Thirty-five TDs have been elected 7 from Clare since 1922. But how many have been female?

1, 2, 3

President Michael D Higgins grew 8 4 up in Newmarket on Fergus. But which school did he attend?

President Patrick Hillary was from where?

l HISTORY: Sinn Féin candidate Éamon de Valera won The East Clare by-election of 1917. Which Irish Clare politician did he defeat?

Ennis, Spanish Point, Ennistymon

18, 24, 28

Hugh O’Brien (Ind, 1981), Dermot Mulqueen (Ind, 2016) , Noel Moran (PD, 1989)

Up until 1898 until it was transIn 2016, only one Clare candidate 10 ferred, which Clare village was 6 got more than 10,000 1st preference votes. Who was it? in the Galway constituency?

Pat Breen, Michael Harty, Timmy Dooley

Tubber, Mountshannon, Ballyvaughan

Spot the Difference Can you spot the difference? Spot the 7 differences.

The answers will be revealed in next weeks edition.

ANSWERS

6. Timmy Dooley 7. 2 8. Spanish Point 9. Hugh O’Brien (Ind, 1981) 10. Mountshannon

many county councillors 5How currently serve in Clare?

Which politician got the lowest 9 number of first preference votes in Clare history with 21 votes?

1. Radical 2. Psychiatrist 3. Patrick Lynch 4. St Flannan’s 5. 28

Shannon Comprehensive, St Flannan’s, Rice College

Last weeks Answers . ‘In’ Missing on sign . Top of Poll na Bron missing in picture . Line on ground missing (front right) . Top of stand holding painting missing

. Womans badge missing (right) . Womans scarf different colour (right) . Middle piece of stand holding painting missing

PJ Keogh Luke Spencer and Sonya Moloney