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AN ORAL hearing is to be held to discuss the future of Blake’s Corner, writes Páraic McMahon. A compulsory purchase order was published by Clare County Council for the traffic blackspot in June, 2020 with a dozen submissions received by An Bord Pleanála. No definitive date has been issued by An Bord Pleanála for the oral hearing, these are held for complex cases. Council officials received a letter on Friday detailing that no further progress would be made until July. In 2018, planning was granted for works with an estimated cost of €7m which intend to improve access to Ennistymon, the construction of a new bridge over the Inagh River and pedestrianising Michael Conway bridge which is currently listed as a protected structure.
‘I need to see my son and wife’ Afghan news anchor living in Ennis fears for family’s life
PÁRAIC McMAHON
A
paraic@clareecho.ie
S PLAYER INTERVIEW SPORT P24-26
MAY 6 2021
ORDER ON OUR WEBSITE
ORAL HEARING FOR BLAKE’S CORNER
HURLERS BACK IN ACTION
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CLARE Direct Provision resident has said the longer the wait for his international protection application, the more danger his family in Afghanistan are facing. Delays experienced for applicants for international protection have been
experienced during the pandemic by Direct Provision residents across the country. Sayed Farid Sanai has been living at the Clare Lodge since November 2019. He was forced to flee his native Afghanistan due to threats on his life by the Taliban. The TV news anchor has remained separated from his family ever-since and detailed that the wait for his international protection is prolonging the danger his loved ones are in. He is terrified that the persons responsible for killing members of the media in his native country will find
his family. During his time living in Clare, he has worked with Fabricated Products in Shannon but the ongoing wait for protection and growing fears in Afghanistan has battered his mentality. “I didn’t come here for myself or to protect myself, I need to do something for my family to bring them here, the reason I’m really worried about the life of my son, my mother and my wife is they face the problem”.
FULL STORY P6
2 NEWS
Index NEWS
THURSDAY, MAY 6 2021
STILL HOLDING HANDS
2-13
GREENER CLARE
14
ENTERTAINMENT
16
COLUMNISTS
17-19
BUSINESS
20-21
COMMUNITY SPORT
by PÁRAIC McMAHON
P
22 24-26
36C Abbey Street, Ennis, County Clare Telephone: 065 671 9021
NEWSDESK
Email: editor@clareecho.ie paraic@clareecho.ie news@clareecho.ie
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Email: ger.naughton@clareecho.ie or niall@clareecho.ie This publication supports the work of the Press Council of Ireland and Office of the Press Ombudsman, and our staff operate within the Press Council’s Code of Practice. You can obtain a copy of the Code, or contact the Press Council, at www.presscouncil.ie, Lo-call 1890 208 080 or email: info@presscouncil.ie
Whitestrand needs new infrastructure
lSWEET: An elderly couple enjoying the fresh air along the Cliff Walk in Kilkee
Photo by John Moylan
RESENT infrastructure at Whitestrand Beach in Doonbeg is not serving the area well, a West Clare representative has maintained. Calls for a full assessment on what is required to help Whitestrand “maintain the standards required to retain its Blue Flag status into the future” and the preparation of an annual development plan were voiced by Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF) at Tuesday’s meeting of the West Clare Municipal District. Discussions on the additional requirements will be had, acting senior executive officer John O’Malley responded. He confirmed immediate repairs will be undertaken to the steps “to ensure safe access for those using the beach and to protect the Council, as far as possible, from any future potential liability due to accidents”. A response from the Department of Transport is anticipated in “the next few weeks” with regard to an application for funding to carry out necessary repairs, senior executive engineer Alan Kennelly outlined. Whitestrand Beach was described by Cllr Murphy as “a spectacular place and an amazing asset” but one that “really isn’t being well served by the infrastructure we have there”.
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NEWS
THURSDAY, MAY 6 2021
O RDE R O NLINE o r PHONE 0 65 682 812 7
F UL L & PA R T T I M E F OOD SERV ERS F UL L & PAT T T I M E ACCOM ODAT I ON ASSI STA N TS F UL L & PA R T T I M E N I GH T POR T ER F UL L T I M E R ECEP T I ON STA F F F UL L & PA R T T I M E K I TCHEN ASSI STA N TS PA R T T I M E B EAUT Y T HERA PI ST SPECIA L I SI N G I N MASSAGE F UL L T I M E ACCOUN TS ASSI STA N T
3
4 NEWS
THURSDAY, MAY 6 2021
70% of LGBTQ+ community are discriminated against CIAN O’BROIN
T
cianobroin@clareecho.ie
HE need for increased mental health supports and recognition of the LGBTQ+ community in Clare has been identified through a recent survey conducted by the Clare Public Participation Network (PPN). The survey, which was issued online in March, set out to gauge what would improve the lives of individuals within the community in Clare. Funding was offered by Clare PPN, Clare Women’s Network, Clare Local Development Company and Rape Crisis Midwest. Recording 50 responses, the survey out-
lined that 70 per cent of respondents had received discrimination based on their sexual orientation or gender identity. A further 30 per cent felt that their gender identity or sexual orientation is not understood. One of the biggest factors highlighted, was the lack of mental health supports available for those within the LGBTQ+ community in Clare. “What shocked me was that we had some respondents that said they were straight acting or hadn’t come out yet. For younger generations it may not be that difficult but for older generations it can be. In Ireland, gender equality is still an ongoing issue. People are afraid to come out. There is real need for a peer support group in Clare and that’s what we are aiming to provide,” stated Meabh Sexton, who works in partnership with Clare
Spancilhill Fair cancelled for second year in a row FOR the second year in a row and only the third time in its history, the Spancihill Fair has been cancelled, writes Páraic McMahon. Organisers of the world famous horse fair have de-
cided that what would be its 400th anniversary will not proceed due to COVID-19 restrictions. A spokesperson confirmed to The Clare Echo, “Having monitored the
l OLD TIMES: A man and his pony at the fair
Photo by Christy McNamara
COVID-19 situation closely and waited as long as possible to take this decision, it now seems likely that restrictions on gatherings will remain for the foreseeable future”. Horse buyers from all over the country and Europe attend the well-known fair. It’s tradition dates back to the 1600s when it received its royal charter from King Charles. A legal dispute between the Ennis Urban Council and the owners of the Fair threatened to curtail its running in the early 1920s but the matter was resolved allowing for the famous fair to be held. Prior to COVID-19, the only previous cancellation was due to the foot and mouth outbreak in 2001. Visitors will have to hold off until 2022 to attend the Spancilhill Horse Fair which is noted for taking place on the 23rd of June.
PPN and Clare Women’s Network. A subsequent meeting was held by members of the short-term LGBTQ+ project in Clare, to discuss issues raised by the survey. An interest was registered in establishing a help line for people within the community as well as a support group that would meet on a monthly basis. Further training within existing mental health supports in Clare, specifically around sexual orientation was also flagged. Further education within the school system surrounding sexual health and gender identity is another key element that the project hopes to address going forward. Meabh added that those outside the LGBTQ+ community can help by “showing visible support. One of the members from
our meeting is living in direct provision. This person noted a complete lack of visibility for the LGBTQ+ community in Clare. They weren’t aware if Clare is welcoming or a safe space to come out. There are many people in Clare that are incredibly supportive, but visibly showing that support is important. It would definitely be a benefit to be a bit more vocal about it.” It was suggested that this openness could be pioneered by business owners through putting up gay flags or posts on Facebook. Moving forward, LGBTQ+ Clare plan to invite more people to their meetings and put in place the solutions drawn up from the results of the survey. “Future events, post COVID, such as a pride parade are also being discussed,” Meabh concluded.
Gardaí uncover 'a number of shebeens' by PÁRAIC McMAHON GARDAÍ in Clare have come across "a number of shebeens" in the county, the Chief Superintendent has revealed. Clare TD Cathal Crowe (FF) at a recent sitting of the Joint Policing Committee (JPC) questioned Garda officials to determine if any shebeens had been detected by officers across the county. "We have come across a number of locations where people are operating shebeens," Chief Supt Seán Colleran confirmed. None of the shebeens detected have gone before the Court, Colleran outlined. "We have come across a small amount following
reports," he added. Also at the JPC meeting, the Chief Supt gave an outline on crime statistics across the county. There has been a 48 percent reduction in the amount of fixed penalty notices issued for speeding from January to March 2020 to January March 2021 down from 176 to 91. 25 drivers were caught driving without insurance on Clare roads between January and March of this year representing a 46 percent decrease for the same period in 2020. Twelve less drivers were detected driving under the influence in January to March of 2021 compared with figures from the previous year down from 36 to 24.
l ILLEGAL: A shebeen uncovered by An Garda Síochána
6 NEWS
THURSDAY, MAY 6 2021
'As a father and a human I need to see my wife and son' Afghan news anchor fears for family's life as Government protection delayed
PÁRAIC MCMAHON
D
paraic@clareecho.ie
ELAYS with the processing of international protection applications has left one Clare Direct Provision resident fearing for the lives of his family in Afghanistan. Thirty two year old Sayed Farid Sanai was one of the most recognised news anchors on Afghanistan television. He led the 6 O'Clock news on Khurshid TV but was forced to flee his country in October 2019 after gun and bomb attempts on his life by the Taliban. After paying $15,000 to an acquaintance of a friend, Farid got on a plane to Turkey and then to Dublin where he went directly to the International Protection Office for help. He initially stayed art the East End Hotel in Portarlington, a temporary Direct Provision centre before his move to The Clare Lodge in Ennis in November 2019. Since he has been in Clare, two members of the TV crew that Farid worked with at home have been attacked, one colleague killed and four others injured while his best friend, Yama Siawash a famous news anchor with Tolo News was killed by the Taliban. Due to COVID-19, international protection applications have been delayed. Farid is still waiting for his interview to be held so that he can receive international protection which will then allow his family to move to
Ireland within six to nine months if he is successful. These delays have not been experienced by friends of his that sought protection in the United Kingdom, Germany and the Netherlands. A spokesperson for the Department of Justice told The Clare Echo that processing times have been impacted by the pandemic but the International Protection Office remains open to allow persons who wish to claim international protection the opportunity to do so. "The provision of the facility to allow people claim international protection is considered an essential service at all times, including during the Covid-19 crisis. Our objective is to have decisions made on international protection applications and permission to remain considerations as soon as possible. This ensures that those who are found to be in need of our protection can receive it quickly and begin rebuilding their lives here with a sense of safety and security". Measures to introduce efficiencies such as accelerated procedures, implementation of non-cooperation measures, and initiatives to speed up the return of completed questionnaires from applicants have been introduced, according to the Department. Other options being explored include greater automation of the process including ICT improvements, revision of key documentation and a greater use of remote interviewing. When he left Afghanistan, Farid was unable to bring his wife Nilofor or his then 10 month old son Keyanoosh. They along with
his mother and four brothers have all been forced into hiding because of threats on their lives over Farid's journalistic work. His personal turmoil has been exasperated by the fact that Keyanoosh no longer recognises him, following recent video calls. Over recent weeks, Farid has become increasingly worried for his family's safety as the situation in his native country deteoriates. "There is no one to help them, every-
lPLEA: Sayed Farid Sanai
Photo by John Mangan
day the situation in Afghanistan becomes worse and the people who threaten media are going to find my family as well". No criticism of the Irish Government is voiced by Farid albeit the wait for an interview to process his application is fuelling his anxiety. "The thing I am going to say and believe me, I didn't come here for myself or to protect myself, I need to do something for my family to bring them here, the reason I'm really worried about the life of my son, my mother and my wife is they face the problem. I'm not going to live in this world for 1000 years, all humans we can't live more than 100 years so I need to do something for my family, as a father and as a human I need to see my wife and son". He has been unable to sleep as this worry takes its toll. "All night I try my best to sleep and make my mind tired but unfortunately I can't, when I close my eyes every negative story about Afghanistan comes to my mind and I can't escape it, I go to sleep for one, two or three hours but when I wake up I don't have a good mentality". No value exists as far as the human body is concerned in Afghanistan, Farid stated with the risk of death ever-present. "Many years ago I watched a cowboy film from the US when I was seven years old, there was people shooting guns everywhere, I thought it was very dangerous but at the moment Afghanistan is the same situation". As the wait for approval of his application continues, Farid's fear for the lives of his loved ones grows by the second.
Green light for new TU makes Ennis a university town by PÁRAIC McMAHON Virtual Townhall for Fishers and Coastal Communities in Clare, Galway, Mayo and Sligo with Minister McConalogue The Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue T.D., invites fishers and those connected to fishing in coastal communities in Clare, Galway, Mayo and Sligo to join him for a virtual Townhall on Thursday 13th May 2021 from 5.30pm – 7pm. The Minister wants to hear directly from those in the community impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and Brexit and to hear their ideas about the future of their communities. Please email coastaltownhall@agriculture.gov.ie to register your place and to receive login details. Please include your name, location, and your connection to fishing in the local community in your email, in the subject line note your county too. gov.ie/agriculture
A PROPOSED link between Limerick Institute of Technology (LIT) and Athlone Institute of Technology (AIT) has formally been given the go-ahead by Government meaning that Ennis is now a university town. Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science Simon Harris TD (FG) has designated AIT and LIT Ireland's next technological university in what he labelled a "hugely important day for higher education in Ireland". The move has been heralded as "a huge boost" for Ennis where LIT have a campus on Bindon St. LIT opened their Ennis campus in December 2019 following an approximate €1m investment in a once vacant building. At its peak, up to 100 students are based at the Ennis campus. It is anticipated that the new technological university designate will increase higher education access, provide enhanced research-led teaching and learning, drive enhanced regional development and increase opportunities for students, staff, business and enterprise, local communities and regional stakeholders. Niall Collins (FF), Minister of State with responsibility for Skills and Further Education said it was "a transformational event for the people of the Midlands and the Mid-West".
Welcoming the announcement, the presidents of both institutes of technology, LIT's Professor Vincent Cunnane (inset) and AIT's Professor Ciarán Ó Catháin, described the designation of the new TU as the conclusion of a strong and dedicated collaboration process between two institutions with a shared vision and ethos. LIT President Professor Vincent Cunnane stated that the announcement marked "a Red-Letter Day for the Midlands and Mid West, and a significant day in the educational history of the regions and indeed Ireland. Chair of Governing Body LIT Tony Brazil commented, "The new university points to a strong future serving a region that stretches along the River Shannon, making this area even more attractive to Indigenous SMEs and foreign direct investment, by linking knowledge, research, education and innovation". Professor Tom Collins, Project Facilitator of the AIT-LIT Consortium reflected, "It has been a great privilege to have been able to play a small part in the formation of this newest Irish university. The
region to be served by this technological university, a region which is unified and defined by the Shannon, will be enabled by this new university to face and shape the future with confidence, resilience and expertise." "This is fantastic news for Ennis and indeed the whole region. The fact that Ennis will now become a university town is a huge boost. The town and county will benefit in the years ahead, as this new technological university evolves," Clare TD, Joe Carey (FG) predicted. Deputy Carey continued, "The president of LIT, Dr Vincent Cunnane and Athlone IT authorities deserve enormous credit for their foresight in combining to make this happen. The potential created by LIT and Clare County Council in working together to establish the campus in Bindon Street has already paid dividends. This latest development will build on that to the benefit of current and future generations in our county". Senator Martin Conway (FG) felt it was a "milestone day" for Clare and the MidWest. He added that it represented a "huge opportunity for Ennis with our offsite campus site. Clare Students can (now) access university in Clare".
NEWS 7
THURSDAY, MAY 6 2021
Moneypoint has potential to be biggest shipping port in Europe by PÁRAIC McMAHON
P
LANS to develop an offshore wind farm off Moneypoint (pictured below) and the construction of a green hydrogen production, storage and generation facility heighten "the necessity" to explore its potential as an international shipping port. Clare councillors unanimously backed a motion from Cllr PJ Kelly (FF) looking for a feasibility study to be completed on Moneypoint's potential development as an international shipping port with a strong emphasis to be placed on trans-shipment. Speaking at a recent meeting of the County Council, Cllr Kelly admitted he had tabled the motion prior to becoming aware of ESB's plans for Moneypoint. He believed their intention to invest in an offshore wind farm in West Clare "adds to the necessity rather than takes from it". Groups in the UK have previously expressed their interest in having shipping facilities in West Clare, the Lissycasey representative recalled, "Brexit had huge implications for people importing stuff into Britain". At Moneypoint there is "no danger of a hold-up like what we had in Suez Canal of late," Cllr Kelly quipped. He flagged how Moneypoint boasts 500 acres on its own with an additional 100 adjacent to it, "if that was to be development in trans-shipment it would be the biggest facility in Europe. "I do hope that in conjunction with the present development in Moneypoint that it could be pushed on, if it was in Dublin or Wicklow it would have been developed in the past. It would be of immense benefit to Clare, let's take advantage of what Brexit has done". Ambitious plans for Moneypoint would be aided by trans-shipment, Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) felt. "It is a motion with great foresight which is common with most of the ideas Cllr Kelly comes up with". Further support was voiced by Cllr Gabriel Keating (FG), Cllr Cillian Murphy (FF), Cllr Joe Killeen (FF) and Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF). He added, "If you have a trans-shipment facility, you will also have refuelling of ships so we could become a seller of fuel rather than just exporting it". Chief Executive of Clare County Council, Pat Dowling informed the meeting he has asked ESB to present to the local authority on an ongoing basis with updates on their strategy in what represented a "new chapter" for Moneypoint.
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8 NEWS
THURSDAY, MAY 6 2021
'I want to have a say on what happens in my home town' CIAN O’BROIN
A
cian@clareecho.ie
lIRISH AT HEART: Dawid Dysky
Photo by John Mangan
YOUNG man from Poland applying for Irish citizenship is looking to affirm his identity in the eyes of the law, having always felt at home here since arriving in 2004. Dawid Dysky moved to Ireland at the age of five, along with his family from Bedzin in Poland. He recalled being one of the first foreign families in Ennis at the time and spoke little to no English. Moving between primary schools as his parents sought a permanent home, Dawid remembered dealing with racism and discrimination at Toonagh N.S. "Being one of the very few foreign people in school came with its downsides, there was always someone who would
bully you for being different. I still remember to this day, how well the principal of Toonagh dealt with the situation at that school. He was way ahead of his time and showed how teachers should deal with racism in schools," Dawid admitted. Growing up in Ireland, Dawid had very little exposure to his Polish roots. All of his friends were Irish, he did Irish dancing, hurling and football. English quickly became his preferred language. He returned home to Poland at the age of 16 to visit family. Despite being told about how his great great grandfather fought Nazis in the woods of his hometown, Dawid never really felt a strong connection with his country of birth. On his visit home, he felt like he was in a foreign country, had a noticeable accent and couldn't wait to return to Ireland. He stated, "I think the hard-
est part about growing up in Ireland though was identity, I am sure many other people in similar situation to mine can relate, where we struggle to find our identity, we don't entirely feel as though we belong in either country at times." In secondary school, all of Dawid’s Polish friends would go to Poland for the summer. This led to them identifying more as both Polish and Irish, making things a bit more confusing, in his opinion. "I am even more firm now in my identity, I care less about what people think, and to be honest I find now that it's mostly Polish people including some of my family back in Poland, who struggle to accept that I identify as Irish rather than Polish," the Maynooth University law and economics student stated. The desire to change citizenship stemmed from a moment in secondary school where a girl refused to accept that
Dawid could identify as Irish. Ever since, he has felt the need to reaffirm what he always felt was true. He asserted that if the Irish state recognises it, then nobody can deny it. Dawid has always been very politically involved, taking part in the student council and Clare Comhairle na nÓg. His parents are supportive of his decision and are hoping to follow suit and apply for naturalisation also. "At the moment I live in a world where I have no say in what happens in my own home, and I can't bear it anymore. I want to be an active citizen, I want to be able to contribute to the society in a positive way and I want to see Ireland pioneer in citizen rights, human rights and climate action. I am really looking forward to it finally being behind me and finally becoming an Irish citizen, with full rights," he concluded.
NEWS
THURSDAY, MAY 6 2021
COVID-19: Resilience and Recovery
The Path Ahead We are now in the early stages of recovery from the pandemic. Restrictions will be eased carefully with a focus on finding the right balance between what is safe, what has the greatest social impact and what supports our economic recovery. The National Vaccination Programme is well advanced and is already having an impact. While we enjoy new activities, sticking with safe behaviours at an individual level is more important than ever.
Plan Your Outdoor Summer May Continue to work from home
June
From 4th May only: Full reopening of construction From 10th May: Phased re-opening of retail (Outdoor retail, Click and Collect/In Store by Appointment only from 10th, full re-opening from 17th
Continue to work from home
Outdoor gatherings of up to 15
Recommencement of religious services
No restrictions on domestic travel
Outdoor training for adults, in pods of up to 15
Funeral services—50 mourners permitted
Public transport capacity increased to 50%
Reopening of personal services
Wedding services (religious & civil)—50 guests permitted
You can meet outdoors incl. private gardens with either:
Reopening of galleries, museums, libraries and other cultural attractions
Wedding celebrations/ receptions —6 indoor/ 15 outdoor
From 2nd June only: Hotels, B&Bs, guesthouses, self-catering accommodation and hostels can reopen. Indoor dining and bar services for residents only
The following will be considered for June, subject to maintaining progress on the virus:
A group of 3 households A group of 6 people from any number of households
Outdoor dining— groups of up to 6 people
From 7th June: Outdoor matches (no spectators) Gyms, Swimming Pools, Leisure Centres for individual training only
Wedding celebrations/ receptions—up to 25 Indoor visits in private homes from one other household
Following public health guidance and sticking to all of the safe behaviours — inside or outside — is now more important than ever. If we all stick to the guidance it will help us progress through our recovery plan and control the spread of the virus.
Vaccination Bonus
From May 10th, fully vaccinated people can meet indoors with other fully vaccinated people as long as there are no more than three households present.
Provided they are not at risk of severe illness, unvaccinated people from one household can meet with vaccinated people from one or two other households.
National Vaccination Programme — Key Milestones
May
June
July
Over 70s
High Risk
25—34
Over 60s
50—59 year olds
vaccina ons well advanced
& Very high Risk
First dose vaccina ons well advanced
Business Supports
first dose vaccina ons well advanced. — First dose vaccina ons underway for — First dose vaccina ons underway for
35—49 year olds
No cliff edge in financial supports for business
For full details, please go to gov.ie/covid19
year olds first dose vaccina ons underway
Economic recovery measures to help businesses and get people back to work
All 38 Vaccination Centres are open in May, June & July
Businesses availing of CRSS who can now reopen will be able to avail of a double restart payment for two weeks up to a maximum of €5,000 per week.
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10 NEWS
THURSDAY, MAY 6 2021
Danielle remembers late brother Jack and promotes water safety PÁRAIC MCMAHON
P
paraic@clareecho.ie
LACING water safety awareness at the forefront of the public's mind for the summer season is the goal of an Ennis family who are also honouring the memory of a loved one. A swimming accident at a disused quarry in May 2018 claimed the lives of 15 year old best friends Jack Kenneally and Shay Moloney, who attended Ennis Community College and St Flannan's College respectively while also lining out together for Ennis RFC. Danielle Kenneally through her Hermitage based company Wix & Wax Ireland has set up a fundraiser for Water Safety Ireland. Throughout the month of May, Wix & Wax are donating all profits from their Daisy Snap Bars to Water Safety Ireland. The wax bars are in blue
to represent the water while the symbol of the daisy is one that the Kenneally family use to remember Jack. "He used to keep a little daisy on the back of his phone cover, it is something
our family have hung onto as a memory of Jack". Putting water safety in the minds of the public was important for Danielle while also paying homage to her late
l TRAGEDY: Jack and Danielle Kenneally
brother. "This year will be his third anniversary on the 31st of May, it is a good time to mark it but also that it is the start of the summer when it is important to have water safety awareness in people's minds". With her business closed during the lockdown, the Ennis woman decided on the idea for the fundraiser. "I had a way to do it successfully through the business, it made me think that it would work," she told The Clare Echo. She is hopeful all members of the public will pay heed to the message on water safety's importance but particularly teenagers. "It is for most people to think about where they are swimming, is it safe and not to swim alone and only swim where there is a lifeguard so that if you get in trouble there will always be someone there to help you". Daisy Snap Bars can be purchased at wixandwaxireland. com, at Coote's Shop on the Kilrush Rd and also at Sweet n Green with all proceeds going towards Water Safety Ireland.
Áras an Chláir to light up for Ovarian Cancer ÁRAS Contae an Chláir is to light up in teal on Saturday to promote awareness of ovarian cancer in the county, writes Páraic McMahon. World Ovarian Cancer Day takes place on Saturday (May 8) and to mark the occasion, Clare County Council's headquarters will be lit up in the colour teal. This move follows a proposal by Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF), Cllr Susan Crawford (GP) and Cllr John Crowe (FG) which was passed by the local authority. It will also acknowledge the eleventh anniversary of the founding of Clare Cancer Support Centre (Sláinte an Chláir) in Kilnamona. "It is important for us to all remember that Clare County Council is well placed to support and raise awareness," Colleran Molloy stated. "It is the one day that global voices are raised in solidarity against Ovarian Cancer". She detailed that over 400 women annually are diagnosed with ovarian cancer, 200 of whom will die from it. The Quin native told the meeting that her sister in law and a very close friend also died from ovarian cancer. "One of the key ways to improve terrible outcomes is with awareness," she added. Pride with the work of Sláinte an Chláir was voiced by Cllr Susan Crawford (GP). She formerly worked in palliative and hospice care and described ovarian cancer as "one of the more frightening cancers, it literally is a silent killer". She said, "I very much promote the importance of women's health locally, nationally and internationally".
Inagh-Kilnamona launch online bingo nights to raise funds
PRIZES Line: 2 Lines: Full House:
€40 €80 €150
+ Snowball jackpot & many other prizes
1 2 Bingo Bingo Card Cards €8 €15
In aid of Inagh-Kilnamona Hurling Club
info@pallasmarketing.ie www.pallasmarketing.ie
INAGH-KILNAMONA Hurling Club club is massively growing in numbers both on the hurling and camogie front. A major development plan started four years ago when the club developed a 90m by 40m Astroturf which has proven a massive benefit to not only the club but surrounding clubs also. Phase one of this development project also included a fully equipped gym and a drainage and resurfacing job on the pitch in Inagh, which now allows for full year accessibility. The next phase is to develop the facilities at our Kilnamona venue with new pitch, road realignment, a stand and community walkway. The planning for this was only recently granted and the club are eager to move ahead with this project as soon as possible. As with any club the strain and the expectation of its members is growing every year and we feel as a club we must keep up with this demand and in the hope of getting all children involved. As you know there is major competition to join other sports, so our facilities must be to a high standard. Being a rural club fundraising is the main source of funds so Inagh-Kilnamona Hurling Club has announced the launch of Mid Clare Online Bingo, which is commencing next Tuesday night, May 11th at 8pm. Prior to Covid-19, the club ran a very successful event called "The Chase" with Pallas Marketing and they have now teamed up with Pallas Marketing again to coordinate this online Bingo on Tuesday evenings. The online platform will mean that, regardless of Covid 19 restrictions, the Bingo can proceed every Tuesday evening. David Foudy from Inagh-Kilnamona Hurling Club commented: "The online bingo has already generated huge interest and sale of
Bingo cards has exceeded all expectations. Apart from locally, there have been purchasers from several other counties so far. "Entrants receive their Bingo cards and a Zoom invite by email and then play for €40 for a line, €80 for 2 lines and €150 for a full house as well as lucky dip prizes between games and a fantastic Snowball Jackpot. This Snowball will start at €100 in week one and will grow by €50 each week until it is won". To enter, simply google "Mid Clare Bingo" or hold a phone camera to the QR code on the Mid Clare Bingo advert which is on page 10 of this week's Clare Echo or the Inagh Kilnamona Hurling Club Facebook or Twitter page.
THURSDAY, MAY 6 2021
Clare is Amazing,
Sponsored by
NEWS
11
take it ALL in...
Explore ALL Clare from Above Above Clare from of Clare. It will – Open Spaces, – Open Spaces, Amazing you! Places surprise Amazing Places
Header as per last weeks edition
From the ground, we can sometimes be less aware of
Text Attached in Word Document
s ‘Clare is Amazing’ page, sponsored by Clare County Council and the spectacular sceneryfeature and the diversity Clare Tourism, will be a regular inremarkable this paper over the weeks d. We willofbe reminding readers of experiences that can be countryside. A birds-eye viewoffrom aboveexplored FROMClare’s the ground, we can sometimes be less aware the spectacular scenery and the remarkable diversity of Clare’s njoyedcountryside. in Clare in line with the latest public health guidelines. birds-eye view from above a great and shows offers a Agreat perspective andoffers shows theperspective abundance of the abundance of riches of Clare – from ll alsotheencourage to ‘Get outHidden There’ and share their River Shannonreaders and Lough Derg in Ireland’s Heartlands, which forms our eastern boundary, to the Burren and riches of Clare – from the River Shannon anddiscovered Lough rugged Wild Atlantic Way coastline with its towering cliffs and golden beaches iencesthe with other readers – your tips! What have you and in the West. this in page, weand feature a small selection of aerial images of the county – aand reminder of some of the open spaces and Tell our readers what you loved most Derg Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands, which forms our on yourOn trip-taking staycations within the County? Tell us, amazing places youprizes, can enjoyand around Clare duringsome the weeks and months ahead. Time to play! ould win some great we’ll share of the best tips on about your recent trip around the County, eastern boundary, to the Burren and the rugged Wild age in the weeks ahead. and win some great prizes - including a Atlantic Way coastline with its towering cliffs and
golden beaches in the West. now, here are just a few suggestions:
loop walks suited to walkers of a Tourist for day.page, In any typical Onathis we feature agreat small selection of aerial different levels of fitness. Our cliff, Clare would be welcoming over images of the county – a reminder of some of the open top, mountain-top, and hill-top walks million visitors from within Ireland spaces can enjoy around Clare areyou spectacular. worldwide. Theyand are amazing drawn toplaces • Bring a picnic, or to buy a picnic. As e becauseduring of all the the possibilities weeks and months ahead. Time play! ‘eating in’ places are not yet open, njoyment and fun. Our seascapes, either bring a picnic or check out scapes and lakescapes provide the places you can pick up a tasty m with the amazing natural takeaway. Restaurants and cafés are kdrops within which each visitor very creative at this time, and you shape their own experience. You can order and pick up excellent meals e the great advantage of living and snacks. It’s also a great way to . For one or more days, imagine support local businesses! rself as a tourist and really explore t can be enjoyed at this time. e in places that you are not overly liar with. d for the open spaces. In Clare, e are plenty of open spaces and zing places. Enjoy the beaches, sts, parks, Wild Atlantic Way stline, The Burren, the Hidden rtlands, historical sites and ogical wonders. Lost! As well as travelling to your urite places, travel to the parts of e you don’t know. Go and get lost d see where it takes you! Clare is of surprises. k the Walk. Clare has lots of astic loop and linear walks to suit evels of fitness. For the serious ker, there are well-organised es, including national trails that well sign-posted. There are also
e r a l C l Tel N I W d an
Family Staycation Holiday.
Every second week we will draw winners for our latest prizes from those who provide good feedback and tips. Then, at the end of August, we will also draw from all entrants for a very special weekend staycation for either a family or two sharing (the winners choice!).
This Weeks Prize Win a ‘Walk with a Hawk’ at the Aillwee Cave Burren Birds of Prey Centre A Hawk Walk at Aillwee is a once in a lifetime opportunity to interact with some of nature’s top predators. Guided and instructed by experienced Falconers, Aillwee’s hour-long ‘Walk with a Hawk’ through hazel woodland and across Burren limestone pavement is tailor-made for anybody seeking a totally unique experience. The lucky winner and a friend can avail of the prize once the Aillwee Cave and the Birds of Prey Centre re-opens. That’s something to look forward to! See www.AillweeCave.ie
All the Rest of Page are the Aerial Images
to o Feedback Online to Win! h c eE ar
l To have a chance toCwin, t u visit www.Clare.ie/TellClare layo r
o n g i es
ed h t T O t distance yourself u N o Stay safe. Protect eachon other. Please remember to follow all public healthwere advice. Above all, always and y Credit: The photos this page, taken by AirSwing Media, commissioned e a g Lmouth and nose, when in proximity acoverings, at least 2 meters (6 feet) from other people. Wearp face covering your provided by Clare County Council. f o to others. Wash your hands well and frequently. ts See www.gov.ie/covid n e on p m o
www.Clare.ie
12 NEWS
THURSDAY, MAY 6 2021
Shannon Farmers Market has become bustling social outlet CIAN O’BROIN
cianobroin@clareecho.ie
T
HE Shannon Farmers Market has become a bustling social outlet for locals to link up and get their weekly shopping every Thursday morning. First introduced to the town on December 10, 2020, the market convenes each week, supporting up to 25 individual traders. Cork man Tom Gems who took over the Castletroy Farmers Market two years ago, helped establish the growing community of micro-businesses that now post up outside the Shannon Town Centre between 10am to 2pm. With over 15 years’ experience in farmers markets, Tom recognises the potential within Shannon and its growing bond with the local community. “Everyone is happy here and there is a steady stream of locals. At lunchtime we have lots of segregated queues, outlined with chalk. Everyone is outside and they feel safe. It’s like a supermarket out in the open air where our 20 regular
traders are building relationships with customers. Everyone is really enjoying it,” the former Sushi stall seller in Cornmarket Street Cork stated. Traders serve burritos, burgers and chips, fresh doughnuts, smoothies and frozen yogurts, Indian shawarma wraps and Halloumi wraps. Tom also alluded to the much-lauded SOS cookies, which have been selling out all over Munster since its debut in December last year. The Shannon Farmers Market also houses a fish stall, a stall containing dog treats, fresh cheese, ground coffee and a stall selling hampers. With potential to increase capacity to 40 traders, the Shannon Farmers Market continues to grow. “People should support the Farmer’s Market as sellers have very low rent and are able to sell wares at a reasonable price, without worrying about any large overheads. Customers come each day to put in their orders. They get to meet the owners of the companies and that’s something they really enjoy,” Tom commented. Post-restrictions, he envisions that Shannon Farmers Market will
have a large seating area in the middle and will cater for live music. An assembly of keen buskers are awaiting instruction from Tom and are keen to add to an ever-growing atmosphere outside Shannon
Town Centre. “It’s important to shop local. We want everyone to know that the traders are extremely grateful for the support shown by the Shannon community. Everyone is following the guidelines and
lDELICIOUS: Shannon Farmers Market Photo by Joe Buckley
all traders are wearing masks,” Tom concluded. Contact Tom Gems to put your pre-orders in for any stall or business at the Shannon Farmer’s Market at 085-131 9437.
NEWS 13
THURSDAY, MAY 6 2021
Post of Shannon Group chair to be re-advertised PÁRAIC MCMAHON paraic@clareecho.ie
A
NEW campaign with the public appointments service (PAS) is to be launched to find the new chairperson of Shannon
Group. Minister for Transport, Eamon Ryan (GP) has confirmed that the post is to be re-advertised. In February, the Green Party leader was forced to scrap the planned appointment of Aaron Forde, 18 hours after announcing him as Rose Hynes’ successor. Agreement has been reached to launch a new campaign with the
Public Appointments Service (PAS) and that it be concluded “as expeditiously as possible”. Department officials are currently engaging with PAS on progressing the new campaign with clarity on a proposed timeline expected “in the very near future” according to the Minister. Speaking to The Clare Echo, Deputy Joe Carey (FG) stressed the importance of finding the right person to chair Shannon Group. “Everyone in the Mid-West understands the significance of Shannon Group as an economic driver in the region. I am glad that progress is being made with regard to the appointment of a new Shannon Group chairperson”. Deputy Carey added, “The role is one of the most important posts in the region and it is vital that the process finds the right person”.
ST. PATRICK’S Comprehensive School were announced as the Best Stand-Alone Project winners in the Walk in My Shoes Mission Possible Awards. The Shannon school was the only Clare representation on the shortlist for the national awards which aims to celebrate schools who promote positive mental health. Taking first place in their category, the Shannon school will receive a €600 cheque, a trophy and a certificate. “It means a huge amount to the students and staff of The Comp for it to get national recognition. It was a bright part of a difficult year for everyone involved and contributions to the website continued throughout lockdown. It’s a special thing to know that the project helped both the people it was created for and those who created it,” Transition Year teacher Jacquie Murphy explained. Last December, the school launched a
PLANS are under examination within the Shannon Municipal District on the upgrading of cycling infrastructure from Latoon to Clonmoney in Newmarket-on-Fergus, writes Páraic McMahon. Senior executive engineer in the Shannon MD, Tom Mellett has confirmed that Council officials are considering upgrading cycling infrastructure from Latoon "all the way to Clonmoney" in what was formerly the main Limerick to Ennis road before the construction of the M18. Speaking at a recent meeting of the Shannon Municipal District, Cllr Pat O'Gorman (FF) raised concerns with the cycling and walking section of the road from Drumline Cross
lTOP JOB: Deputy Joe Carey (FG)
Photo by Yvonne Vaughan Photography
Top marks for The Comp in promotion of mental health by CIAN O’BROIN
Council plan to upgrade cycling infrastructure
new initiative which used digital technology to allow nursing home residents to experience activities like walking, cooking and playing with pets again. The project started with TY students, fusing together with the Leaving Cert Applied class and the school’s photography club. Linking up with Carrigoran Nursing House, the students delivered something special for close to one-hundred residents at Christmas time. Since winning the award, the nursing home has offered its commendation and thanks to a school in which it shares a longstanding relationship with. The school outlined that it intends to put the €600 towards a new audio-visual club in the school so that students can continue to pursue video editing, podcasting and other work. “The project has also been entered into another competition called Digital Champions. The results of this competition are out on Wed the 12th but we are more than happy with our current win,” Jacquie added.
to Newmarket-on-Fergus. He stated, "the grass is growing out from the verge forcing cyclists and walkers out onto the road" and asked for some remedy to be put in place. The Cratloe representative questioned if it came under the remit of the grass cutting contract. Social distancing cannot be maintained on the road, O'Gorman flagged. "People are supposed to stay 2m apart, if they meet on the road, they have to be in the middle of the road because the margin is cut with the foliage". Maintenance rather than grass-cutting is the issue at Drumline, Mellett advised. "It is for us as a maintenance issue to deal with in discretionary funding".
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lTECHNOLOGY: St Patrick’s Comprehensive School students have been recognised for their mental health initiative Photo by Olaf Matuszewski
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14 FEATURES
THURSDAY, MAY 6 2021
GREEN CLARE
Caherhurley Nursery raises awareness on alternative plants CIAN O’BROIN
L
cianobroin@clareecho.ie
OCATED in Bodyke, East Clare is an organic perennial plant nursery governed by a strict philosophy predicated on acclimatising to the harsh Irish weather. Caherhurley Nursery was established by qualified horticulturists Gert and Elisabeth Stam 20 years ago, when they departed Holland for the West Coast of Ireland. Most plants in nurseries are grown in polytunnels and glasshouses and cannot cope with the Irish climate, Gert remarked. “What we do here, is we grow in a certified organic way. We grow in the open, making everything hardy and well capable. Lots of Irish plants are sprayed with chemicals. Few people know about us here. What drives us, is that we are not in this game for the money,” he stated. Certified organic plants are
free from insecticides and are not harmful towards bees. Gert and Elizabeth home grow all of their plants on their farm situated in the foothills of Slieve Berneagh in East Clare. Most of the plants are grown in one litre pots or half-litre pots outside, on the windy slopes. “We are here to make people aware of an alternative to the plants that you see. We have great gardens here. We don’t have bedding, hedging or trees. We only grow herbaceous perennial plants that add a splash of colour,” Gert exclaimed. The couple had 25 years of experience in gardening and plant growing in the Netherlands and admit that they were attracted to Clare by the friendliness of the people and the beautiful Irish scenery. Garden Consultant Bryan Mulhall who works at Caherhurley Nursery stated that the tiny business is encouraging the local economy, through direct labour,
lFRESH AIR: Gert and Elisabeth Stam grow organic plants out in the open
services, local tradesmen and supplies. Employing teenagers to pot and plant on weekends, animals to be minded, irrigation systems to be looked after and barriers to be maintained are some of the ways the nursery is supporting the local community. “The nursery has a great name, with customers all over Ireland. What’s most valued is its personal touch. There was a lad up in Meath who put in a big order of quite a few plants. Shipping charges are quite expensive, as we use An Post. Gert was picking up a stallion from a farm in Kildare last weekend. He decided that, as the customer was
only 20 minutes away, he would deliver the plants himself and save the man shipping charges. That customer is absolutely delighted now,” Bryan revealed. Gert and Elisabeth also breed Arabian horses, of which they currently have seven located on their farm. They have been doing so for the past 25 years, in an effort to preserve rare bloodlines and often spend time organising exchanges with other breeders. Seeing the horses is all part of the experience involved in visiting Caherhurley Nursery. Caherhurley nursery is now open to the public for visits, with
everything appropriately distanced and all governmental guidelines being followed. In the recent announcement by the retired couple, who continue to pursue their passion, despite Gert suffering from medical issues the past five years, they stated, “There is just no stopping an old grower. Gert envisioned a nursery that specialised in unusual quality ornamental plants and where garden lovers from all over Ireland could visit. He is humbled that his dream has come true.” Find Caherhurley Nursery at the Eircode V94K3E3 or online at CaherhurleyNursery.com.
15
THURSDAY, MAY 6 2021
in association with
Post Office field is ‘the lung of Ennis’ as calls are made for updated plans PÁRAIC MCMAHON
U
paraic@clareecho.ie
PGRADED plans for The Post Office field must coincide with the progression of public realm works in the town of Ennis, local representatives have stressed. Discussion on the future of The Post Office field saw Ennis councillors voice their desire to see the amenity become more of a part of the town’s fabric. A proposal from Cllr Johnny Flynn (FG) asked that initiatives brought before Ennis Town Council in the past to “provide family friendly, sustainable, environmentally friendly recreational ameni-
ties” be advanced. He asked for “urgent consideration” to be given to the installation of a ‘Tot Lot’, a small playground for younger children. As previously reported by The Clare Echo, The Post Office field has been identified as one of nine transformational sites in the Ennis 2040 Economic and Spatial Strategy. It is already earmarked as an opportunity site in the current County Development Plan. Investigations such as a flood risk assessment, bat surveys, a tree survey, site investigations, a landscape management plan plus ground penetrating radar and topographical surveys must be carried out for the Council to consider further proposals, Linda Earlie, Senior Enterprise Development Officer stated. “Aligning future development
proposals with these planned objectives will be key for ensuring a co-ordinated approach to town centre site development and that the needs across all age cohorts are
l Post Office field Photo by Paschal Brooks
Feasibility study for Abbey Street to proceed by PÁRAIC Mc MAHON A FEASIBILITY study for Abbey Street in Ennis with the intention of seeking funding is to proceed. At Tuesday’s meeting of the Ennis Municipal District, Cllr Johnny Flynn (FG) asked that the study be carried out to enable a Part 8 planning application be lodged to Government for URDF funding under the Ennis Town Centre Public Realm Regeneration. In March, over €4m was allocated by the Government for the rejuvenation of O’Connell Square, High Street, Bank Place, Barrack St and Old Barrack Square. Works continue under the laneways and bowways project at Parnell St. Traders in Abbey St had raised questions at its absence from such plans. Public works currently underway in Ennis
l Abbey Street
catered for as part of this process”. Speaking at Tuesday’s meeting of the Ennis Municipal District, Cllr Flynn described the Post Office field as “the most important natu-
“will benefit all of the town, not just the individual streets that are being regenerated,” senior executive engineer Eamon O’Dea stated. “The overall connectivity with Abbey Street is being enhanced through the URDF programme of projects.” Active Travel funding has been secured for the design of a cantilever footpath extension on Club Bridge on the town side, O’Dea confirmed. “This will also improve pedestrian accessibility at Club Bridge when constructed, thus enhancing pedestrian access to the town through Abbey Street”. He said it was intended to examine Abbey St in future work programmes, “the Ennis MD are working with the Planning Section to structure a brief for a feasibility study for Abbey Street with the intention of seeking funding to proceed with the study”.
ral asset we have in the town centre”. He recalled previous plans to have a footbridge from it to Parnell St car park, “loads of documents have identified its potential for rest and recreation for people living and visiting the town centre”. What he called “limited flood protection” delayed any developments on the field as he welcomed the fact no buildings have been constructed on it. When the niche destination plan for Ennis was being prepared, Cllr Flynn reflected that the old Town Council boundaries of Ennis in the shape of heart impressed consultants, “Ennis is like a heart and the Post Office field is the lung of Ennis”. Reports on its use need to be updated, he said. “We are progressing the public realm, we need to upgrade what is the most important natural asset in our town”.
16 Arts & Entertainment
THURSDAY, MAY 6 2021
Sarah remembers late grandmother in new single PÁRAIC PÁRAIC MCMAHON MCMAHON
S
paraic@clareecho.ie paraic@clareecho.ie
lCLOSE MY EYES: Sarah McTiernan
ARAH McTernan’s latest single written in memory of her late grandmother has given her inspiration to drive forward in her music career. Close My Eyes was released on Friday and is dedicated to Sarah’s grandmother, Margaret McTiernan, a native of Ballina but also a proud Scariff woman who died in June of last year. After Margaret’s death, Sarah found herself at a crossroads. “I was a musician in the middle of a pandemic who hadn’t gigged since March, my whole world had flipped upside down and then my grandmother passed away so it made things so much harder”. She explained the background to the single, “I closed my eyes and prayed to my grandmother, I remembered a conversation I had with my grandmother’s sister at the funeral and she said ‘the last time I was speaking to your grandmother she said you were writing music and she was so proud of you’, that sentence
kept repeating in my head and all of a sudden I had this lightbulb moment that I needed to focus all my energies in writing music. I really wanted to write a song as a tribute to my grandmother about the loss and grief, it was written a couple of weeks after that. The song goes through the thoughts you have after you lose somebody”. Writing and releasing the song has helped the Ennis resident grieve Margaret’s loss. “The night before I released it I just couldn’t stop crying, the release of writing the song was hard and hearing it back and getting it right was hard, I couldn’t help but think what she would have thought if she heard the song, I know she would have loved it but it was really hard, even releasing it was part of the grieving process, I feel really emotional thinking about it”. Highpoints of the Scariff singer’s career to date include representing Ireland in the Eurovision and also finishing third on the fourth series of The Voice of Ireland where Rachel Stevens of S Club 7 was her mentor. Her career has been influenced by her upbringing in East Clare, Sarah admitted. “I was very lucky to be in Scariff Com-
munity College and for Johnny O’Brien to be my music teacher when I was there, he was really passionate about music which helped and was very supportive. He used to arrange talent shows every year, I used to enter them and one year I won with my friend, it gave me the experience to perform, when I began performing properly I still had a long way to go but it still gave me a taste for and made me want to do it more. Everybody from home is so unbelievably supportive, having that grounding has helped definitely”. In February, she collaborated with HalfTraxx to release Loving You which peaked at number 14 on the Irish charts. Sarah is working towards releasing an EP by the end of the year but hopes to have two more singles out before then. Looking towards the future, Sarah is hopeful to have songs appearing in the UK charts and to be back performing gigs to large crowds. “You need to have goals to focus yourself and work towards, I have big plans for the rest of 2021 and into 2022, I’m working really hard to get to them”. Close My Eyes is available to purchase via iTunes.
Book of Hope shares the wisdom of older generation by PÁRAIC McMAHON WORDS of wisdom from older generations are being shared with children throughout Ireland and as far afield as the US, thanks to A Book of Hope, edited and illustrated by artist Ana Colomer. As part of Clare County Council's Keep Well campaign, Clare Arts Office supported Ana to create the book under the Cúram initiative. She invited older writers to submit pieces about aspects of life when they were growing up and then illustrated each submission. The first copy of A Book of Hope was presented to one of the contributors, Mary McMahon who in turn has passed the book on
to her grandchildren. "It has been an honour and an unbelievable journey to gather heartfelt messages, memories, tales, poems... a project conceived to connect people, and what a success it has been," Ana reflected. She continued, "I know for a fact some of these books will travel as far as the US, Korea and Australia, where little hands, wideopen eyes and eager ears will touch, see and listen, remembering their loved ones far away, unable, for now, to travel. I hope the book will feel like a hug". Ana invited older people to write a little piece about their childhood. Following a public call, 24 submissions were selected from all over Clare, Ireland, the UK and the
US, to name a few. Ana then created beautiful illustrations to accompany some of the chosen pieces. Siobhán Mulcahy, Clare County Arts Officer, said: "The delicate use of colour in this book provides a soft, inviting and comforting read that can be shared between generations." Copies of A Book of Hope are available from https://www.amazon.es/dp/B08YQQWSF8
lCOMFORTING: Artist Ana Colomer and Mary McMahon Photo by Eamon Ward
COLUMNIST 17
THURSDAY, MAY 6 2021
THE LAMBURGHINI OF TASTY KOFTAS Kearney Cooks
O
NE of my favourite meats to eat is lamb, and I am convinced that Irish lamb is the best in the world, and that Clare lamb is the best in Ireland. This is a hill I will die on and no Mayo culchies will change my mind. Now with BBQ season upon us I thought I would try something slightly different and make lamb koftas, minced lamb infused with aromatic herbs and spices and usually served with flatbreads and salad. The below recipe is for two people, but simply increase the volumes if you’re cooking for more. FOR THE KOFTAS: • 250g lamb mince (ground lamb) • 1/2 onion finely diced • 25g breadcrumbs, preferably panko • 1 clove of garlic, crushed • 1 tbsp chopped fresh coriander • 1 tsp cumin • 1tsp coriander • 1tsp paprika • 1 tsp sumac (optional as this spice can be hard to find at times) • 1tsp ground cinnamon • 1 tsp cayenne pepper or chilli powder (this is a bit spicy so you can reduce to taste or leave out, or
R
ebecca O’Neill
F
• •
increase it if you’re feeling ballsy) 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 tsp black pepper
FOR THE YOGHURT SAUCE: • 3tbsp Greek yoghurt • 1tsp cumin • 1tsp lemon juice • Season to taste with salt and pepper • 1 tbsp of fresh chopped mint Step 1 Horse all your kofta ingredients into a bowl and mix them all up together and shape into balls, or into cigar shapes to be put on skewers. Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty with this one (or you can put on rubber gloves) Step 2 Either grill on a BBQ until cooked through, or else seal the meat on a hot frying pan for five minutes and finish off in an oven that’s preheated to 180c for 15 minutes. Cooking time will vary depending on the size of your kofta. Step 3 Make a yoghurt sauce by mixing all your sauce ingredients together in a bowl. Yes, it’s that easy. Step 4 Put your now cooked koftas and your yoghurt sauce on a large serving
dish along with some flatbreads or pittas, and a salad of lettuce, onion and tomato. Step 5 Tear into your fantastic feast of Irish lamb and Middle Eastern flavours, you citizen of the world. Pile your salad, kofta and yoghurt dressing onto a flatbread and wrap your gob around that bad boy. Step 6 Horse into it, stopping in surprise as you realise that this strange affair of a dish actually works. You can use shop bought flatbreads or pittas if you like, or if your feeling adventurous there’s a flat bread recipe on my Instagram, @KearneyCooks. You can also bulk this out by serving with a big bowl of cous cous or pilaf rice. Food like this is great fun to eat as it encourages communal dining and using your hands. It’s the kind of dinner that you might want an auld napkin for as it can get a bit messy. As usual if you have any questions about this or other recipes, please feel free to message me on Insta. Now fingers crossed we have some fine weather and you can try this recipe out on the BBQ.
Enjoy
Steve K
Getting back to normal Rebecca O’Neill is looking forward to the Covid-19 restrictions lifting and meeting her beauty clients again
INALLY we have some peace of mind in terms of restrictions and I think everyone has a sense of excitement. As we know now, restrictions began easing from the 4th of May where construction and outdoor workers restarted. On the 10th of May we can travel to different counties and personal services can reopen such as hairdressers and beauticians which a lot of people will be very happy to hear. Personally I am so excited to get my hair done and feel like I have treated myself. We forget how important personal services actually are to us and the difference it can make on our mental health. As a beautician myself, I am so excited to meet my clients again and make a positive impact on them in their day. My favourite part about my job is bringing positivity to someone in their day by making them feel so much better after their treatments. I’m looking forward to getting my nails done and feeling good about
myself afterwards. These small things make such a positive impact on people and makes us very hopeful. On the 10th of May galleries, museums, and libraries can reopen which gives us the option to browse through books and physically look at history. Click and collect services will resume in the retail sector which gives you the
HISTORY: Libraries will re-open soon
option to order products from local shops and salons that you haven’t been able to get your hands on. We also get to see our loved ones if they are fully vaccinated. This is so positive for so many families. One the 17th of May all remaining retail stores can reopen which means all our favourite clothing shops will be open where we get to see clothes in person rather than
shopping online. I think queuing for Penneys may be the highlight of my year when the 17th comes and I don’t think I’m the only one. This gives us the opportunity to support local shops and treat ourselves at the same time. On the 2nd of June we finally get to book a staycation or night away. Hotels and B&Bs will resume restricting to only overnight guests. This can give us the option to actually have a change of scenery and see new places again. This is something a lot of people like myself are looking forward to. On the 7th of June we have the freedom to visit another household which will make such a positive impact when it comes to mental health. Being able to visit your friends and family is so rewarding and crucial at this current time. Restaurants and bars can reopen outdoors which is perfect timing for summer. These are only some of the restrictions I have listed. We have a very positive few weeks ahead of us and we Clare people have made a difference in making this happen.
18 COLUMNIST
THURSDAY, MAY 6 2021
Buoyancy in home sales for breeders With
With
PÁRAIC MCMAHON
With
In this week’s farming column, Joe Melody reflects on the beginning of the summer season
I
N NORMAL noncovid times, we would be just after enjoying the first summer show of the year our very own Newmarket-on-Fergus show on the May bank holiday. This show always heralds the arrival of the summer season. Unfortunately for the second consecutive year there has been a gulf in our Sunday bank holiday schedule due to this pandemic. The show to us and to many other rural communities is a day where the ties of friendship, family and farming are woven together to act as an example of the rich cultural tapestry we as rural dwellers thrive on. Throughout the years what stands out to me especially from our local show is that much of the enjoyment we get from the day is not always in winning a first prize or even a champion with show cattle of ours. It is from the simple things like tidying up the field after or helping with the preparation before the show. It is the gratifying feeling you get from working alongside others towards a shared goal, ours being the continuation of the great institution that is the Newmarket show. It is my hope that when life goes back to a semblance of what it was, that we support these shows as there is no longer the creamery where farmers met daily and mixed, the thrashings are long gone, so the show is one of the few remaining cultural institutions that instils a sense of community and togetherness in its people. I often hear people speak of the spring and how stressful and busy it is but if I’m being honest I would have to say that the breeding season is much more intense as the cow or heifer will not go in calf
B
paraic@clareecho.ie
UOYANT trade has been reported for home sales in recent weeks by Clare Pedigree Limousin cattle breeders’. The Irish Cattle Limousin Society hosted its Athenry sale on April 16th with Maghera Ronan selling for €5,500 and Brickhill Prince for €4,500. They were owned by Tulla’s Pat Mulconry and Cratloe’s Michael McInerney respectively. Average resting was reported to be at €3,647 which was up substantially in recent years. Speaking to The Clare Echo, John Shannon PRO of the Clare Limousin Society for over 20 years outlined that an increase in home sales had been very optimistic across the county. He said the sales achieved by Mulconry and McInerney were regarded as
SIRE: Brickhill Prince
PETRICHOR: The Melody herd
unless you have her in heat and monitoring of the herd becomes all encompassing. What creates a lot of work for us is breeding the maiden heifers in an outside block to A.I. it is far from efficient from a labour point of view but, the youngest female animals in the herd tend to have a higher genetic merit as they are a further generation of breeding selectively to what one would hope are top sires. I do DIY A.I. and have for the past 11 years. It creates extra work but it also allows us to breed a cow or heifer when is optimal for her and when suits us. As I write this column the rain is pelting down, what a comforting sound. It is well needed after the
drought like conditions of the last few weeks, it is becoming very similar to 2020 with its early drought. The advantages of the dry weather have been record high levels of dry matter in the grass which means what grass is there is lasting longer and more of it is being metabolised by the cow. Paddocks have also been grazed tightly so the regrowths will be top quality. However in spite of these advantages I’m looking forward to petrichor as I step outside. This is the sweet earthy pleasant smell that is produced when the first rain falls onto parched ground after a prolonged dry spell, it is as if nature is letting us know it is blessing us with life sustaining rain!
LIMOUSIN: Maghera Ronan
top prizes in Athenry. Within the past fortnight, breeders have observed a rise in home sales, the Corofin man stated. This is as a result of restrictions on mart attendance and the desire of buyers to be able to see the animal in the flesh stressing the importance of visibly assessing potential stock, “choosing the sire is a crucial decision,” he explained. “It is the principle animal on the farm and it needs to be of good confirmation and genetically well bred”. Local breeders have enjoyed “excellent business” in recent times according to John. Home sales particular relating to pedigree bulls was described as “very buoyant”. Clare alongside Mayo is one of the most densely populated counties for limousin breeders, he said. Among the impressive recent sales in the county include Belharbour’s Derek Daly selling seven bulls in a 10 day period while Sean Lyons of Ruan has sold 23 bulls in recent months.
FEATURES 19
THURSDAY, MAY 6 2021
Summer of hope RONAN SCULLY
Thought for the week
S
UMMER has arrived and we should all take a few moments to reflect upon the meaning of this special God-given season and thank God for it. Our days hopefully will be once again filled with glorious sunshine. We need this after the last year of restrictions and lockdowns. We need to be able to get out of our homes, to get outside, to breathe fresh air, and to see God's magnificent creation. We need the rays of light to warm our skin and sink into our souls and give us hope. Summer is a time when many of us are drawn to the nourishing embrace of nature, time with family and friends, holidaying in favourite places and a more spacious "me time" schedule. Many of us also make more time to notice that which inspires us and delights our senses. No matter how much the world and our niche within it has changed lately, the season of summer just keeps blooming and flourishing, greening and growing, singing and soaring. I find myself doing things differently these days, and not just those things that allow me to comply with local and national directives because of the Coronavirus. I am finding new ways to stay steady, balanced, whole and hopeful.
Summer Fulfilment
As I write this thought for the week, I am just after returning from a beautiful walk in nature where finally the season of summer has shown itself in full bloom and it gave me a sweet taste of the hopefully warm summer days before us. Hopefully it will make us in some ways feel younger and more alive and even in these times of the Coronavirus! The month of May traditionally marks the beginning of summertime and brings with it not only a change in the weather, but also a change in the way we experience the world around us. The summer season gives us opportunities to discover our world and our life in new and revitalizing ways. A thought that came to me during my walk is that I love and adore the season of Summer. I love the sunshine of the summer months as it brightens up the world, and with it, brings days of new warmth and gives obvious signs of awakening and renewal wherever we look. It amazes me how the evening's start to lengthen to its fullest and how the heat of the sun comes back into the air. For me, summer is the symbolic
season that reminds one to grab hold of all that life has to offer. Summer is the fulfilment of a hopeful Spring. To make the most of summer is, for me, to make the most of all that is good in life. Gone are thoughts of winter despair or a chilling and wet spring. Everything around us now in this summer season is alive and vibrant and in full maturity. If I seize a summer day, I believe I seize life itself and find in it all that gives pleasure and meaning. But nothing is as beautiful as all the trees, flowers, shrubs and bushes that are in full bloom and full of life and energy. It is truly a beautiful, magical and wonderful time of our year. It makes me think about the many blessings that summer shines upon us, such as the warmth and freshness in the air, the warm sun on my skin, wonderful humid breezes, singing of the birds, the growth of nature all around me, animals of all kinds fully emerged, fresh and sea waters flowing, trees, plants and flowers fully blossomed in an array of numerous colours, and of course the oncoming of the summer holidays.
Thought for the week
As your thought for the week, remember, everything will be okay if we love and believe in ourselves, and understand that hope floats around us and when we can we should always spread that hope and love with others especially those who mean the most to us and especially now as we try to exit out of lockdown. May we emerge from this season of lockdowns because of the coronavirus, more rested to do God's work, more committed to serve God's people, and more in love with our God who created and loves us. I pray that as the signs of summer begin to show themselves all around us, you will remember that each new day is like a cleared field ready for planting. Your thoughts, attitudes, and actions are the seeds you plant. This summer choose only the seeds that will produce a bountiful harvest of love, joy, health, kindness, care, prosperity, and peace. And may you give thanksgiving not only for the summertime around you, but also for the summertime within you. This summer season try to dislodge hate and replace it with love. Dislodge pride and replace it with humility. Dislodge anger and replace it with self control. Dislodge unbelief and replace it with faith. Dislodge revenge, and replace it with forgiveness. Dislodge complaining and
replace it with praise. Dislodge evil and unkind thoughts and replace them with pure and kind thoughts. Dislodge gossip and replace it with encouragement. Dislodge laziness and replace it with caring. I wish each of you as you read this thought, in this moment and on this day, much peace and joy. Feel this summer, own it, squeeze the juice out of it. You have arrived at your destination; this is the present summer of your life. Here is a nice prayer for each of you for a blessed and beautiful summer - "Creator of all, thank You for summer! Thank You for the warmth of the sun and the increased daylight. Thank You for the beauty I see all around me and for the opportunity to be outside and enjoy Your creation. Thank You for the increased time I have to be with my friends and family, and for the more casual pace of the summer season. Draw me closer to You this summer. Teach me how I can pray no matter where I am or what I am doing. Warm my soul with the awareness of Your presence, and light my path with Your Word and Counsel. For more light in the day, we thank you, For gentle mornings, we thank you, For nighttime conversations, we thank you, For friends and family, we thank you, For gardens and all manner of creatures, we thank you. Help us, Creator and lover of our souls. Help us love this earth. Help us dwell wholeheartedly in our lives this day. Help us pray as we walk, work, play, rest, and create. As we enjoy Your creation, create in us a pure heart and a hunger and a thirst for You. May we always walk with God this summer In whatever we do and wherever we go. Walking with God means, walking with honesty and with courage, walking with love and respect and concern for the feelings of others. May we talk to God this summer and every day and in every situation. Loving God, thank you for the gift of summertime, the days of light, warmth and leisure. Thank you for the beauty that surrounds us everywhere we look: the multi-colored flowers, the deep blue of the sky, the tranquil surface of lakes, the laughter of children at play, people strolling in parks, families gathered around picnic tables and the more time to spend with family and friends. As we open our eyes and ears to the landscape of nature and people, open our hearts to receive all as gifts. Give us that insight to see you as the Divine Artist. Help us to realize and appreciate that you are laboring to keep all in existence. Warm our souls with the awareness of your presence. Let all the gifts we enjoy this summer deepen our awareness of your love so that we may share this with others and enjoy a summertime of re-creation. Amen." Enjoy a beautiful summer of hope!!!
lRNLI: Shawna Johnson
Shawna hits the ground running PÁRAIC MCMAHON paraic@clareecho.ie
N
EWLY appointed volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager at Kilrush RNLI, Shawna Johnson has had to hit the ground running. In April, Shawna was appointed to the role and has been kept on her toes ever since overseeing three call outs after taking over the helm. She is not a stranger to the station, having served in the role of Deputy Launching Authority prior to her new position. As Lifeboat Operations Manager, Shawna will now be responsible for managing all operational activities at the RNLI station, as well as authorising lifeboat launches. "Summer brings more people to the coast, which means more emergency call outs and Kilrush RNLI remain ready to launch should they be required. We are fortunate to have such a dedicated team of volunteers at Kilrush Lifeboat Station who are ready to drop everything at a moment's notice to save lives at sea. Following a busy Bank Holiday weekend we continue to urge
anyone who sees somebody in trouble in the water or along the coast to use VHF Ch 16 or Dial 112 or 999 and ask for the Coast Guard," she stated on Monday. Over the May Bank Holiday weekend Kilrush RNLI volunteers launched to assist a disabled fishing vessel with two people onboard and a capsized kayaker. On Friday last, Kilrush RNLI assisted a fishing vessel with two people onboard after its propeller had become tangled in lobster pots north of Loop Head Lighthouse. Kilrush RNLI located the disabled vessel and took it on tow to Carrigaholt Pier, a distance of approximately 11 nautical miles. On Sunday (2 May), Kilrush RNLI responded to a report that a kayaker had capsized and was unable to recover themselves back into their kayak. A concerned onlooker spotted the casualty in Rinneville Bay, north west of Kilcredaun Lighthouse as they were swimming beside their kayak while making their way to shore. Kilrush RNLI volunteers arrived on scene and located the casualty a few metres from the shore. As Kilrush RNLI's inshore lifeboat was restricted by depth, Kilkee Coast Guard shore based unit assisted the casualty to safety from the shore.
OPW contacted about Annagh remedial works by PÁRAIC McMAHON plete remedial works to the fish CONTACT has been made with the Office of Public Works over a request for remedial works along the Annagh River. At a recent virtual sitting of the West Clare Municipal District, Cllr Bill Chambers (FF) issued an appeal for the OPW to com-
pass at the inlet of the Annagh River in Quilty. His proposal was seconded by Cllr Gabriel Keating (FG). After agreement was reached between councillors in the West Clare MD for the works, correspondence was issued to the OPW requesting that they occur.
20 RECRUITMENT
THURSDAY, MAY 6 2021
Sourdo'Farrell lights up St Michael's Villas CIAN O’BROIN
S
cianobroin@clareecho.ie
T. MICHAEL'S Villas in Ennis has been lit up following the recent conversion and opening of a brand-new sourdough café-bakery. Graduating as a French and Spanish teacher, Keith O'Farrell made the decision to move away from a tough industry in November 2019. After working in the Clare Language Centre as well as teaching English in Spain, he began to assess his future career options. He travelled to Brazil in early 2020 to learn Portuguese but his travels became short-lived when he caught a mosquito-borne tropical disease known as the dengue virus. Returning home to the front room of his parent's house, self-isolation quickly gave way to his first attempt at producing sour-
dough bread. "I voluntary left my job so it was time to figure out what I wanted to do. I said I would give sourdough a go. It took seven days to make the yeast. It was really weird that the first loaf came out perfect. I put it up on social media and that's how it started. I was able to drop off these loaves to people's houses during the lockdown. Parents friends loved it," he said. Starting every morning at 4am as a hobby, Keith decided to trade a domestic oven for one suited towards a micro-bakery. Six months had passed before the oven eventually arrived in January 2021. Teaming up with the Local Enterprise Office (LEO) through business mentoring and a 'start your own business course' Keith settled on overtaking the historic Quinn building in the St. Michael's Villas and is now "delighted the old convenience store is back in use." On its first day of business on April 7, Sourdo'Farrell sold out within hours. Keith purchased a
coffee machine and teamed up with Kilfenora's Anam coffee to offer a café experience. "I also do sourdough pastries. I find them more flavoursome. While I might not have the white sourdough
bread after the 60 sell out in the morning, there will always be something sourdough available, whether a roll, pastry or pizza dough. We bring different things out during the day such as the
Visit Sourdo'Farrell in person at St. Michael's Villa's, Ennis or on Instagram online under the same name.
l TASTY: Keith O'Farrell outside his new bakery
- Opportunity to purchase an established successful business - Supplying to sporting clubs, schools, corporate awards events and general public - Equipment and stock included
white sourdough, focaccia, sourdough wholemeal and cinnamon buns." Keith's vision is to make Sourdo'Farrell the next popular gathering spot in town, with seating for six people inside and plans to implement outdoor seating arrangements in the pipeline. Future upgrades and the lifting of restrictions would see a deli counter and a domestic unit to service lunches for customers. "Sourdough is a process not a flavouring. It's trendy now and a healthier option. My main goal here is to have another model of a gourmet store. I would love to have a café live style. Ennis was known for music for a long time, there are great musicians that came out of the town. It would be nice to have a place that would have live music," he concluded.
New online portal to encourage job seekers to move to Clare A NEW online jobs portal aimed at attracting professionals and their families to make new lives in Clare has been launched, writes Páraic McMahon. Launched by the Western Development Commission (WDC), job seekers will be given the chance to land a new post on the free-to-use portal Westernjobs.ie and provide employers information on the talent pool available to them in a particular county in the Western region. Lower housing costs are referenced by the WDC as they encourage people to make a permanent and viable move to the West of Ireland, a transition which is made possible through remote working. For job seekers, Westernjobs.ie provides a one-stopshop to give them all the information they require about opportunities in the West and the benefits of moving there. It will allow them to stay updated on relevant positions based on their skills and preferences and will enable them to connect with employers and agencies across the region. The WDC says insights and real-time data from the site will also help officials in the future to make more in-
formed planning and development decisions affecting the region. Employers in the region will be able to create company profiles and promote job opportunities targeted at talent that they know is interested in working in the region. Commenting on the launch of the Westernjobs. ie portal, Western Devel-
opment Commission CEO Tomás Ó Síocháin believed it was "unique in that it will allow people to signal an interest to move west. "Research carried out by the WDC indicates that while many people have already moved west over the last year, a significant number are considering the move west, if the right opportunity presents itself.
HEALTH SERVICE EXECUTIVE
The HSE currently has the following opportunities:
– Health Care Support Assistants Clare
Ref: NRS10138 Closing date for applications: Monday, 17th May 2021 at 12 noon. For more information and to apply visit: www.hbsrecruitmentservices.ie/health-caresupport-assistant/
BUSINESS 21
THURSDAY, MAY 6 2021
Renovo Motors to create 30 jobs over three years PÁRAIC MCMAHON
T
paraic@clareecho.ie
HIRTY jobs are to be created in Shannon over the next three years by Renovo Motors Inc. An automotive data management software company, Renovo Motors Inc have announced they will be setting up their EMEA Headquarters and Software Development
Hub in Shannon. Founded in 2010, designs and developments by Renovo will greatly enhance the development of future software-defined vehicles. The award-winning platform being developed by Renovo enables intelligent data capture and management from advanced software-defined vehicle architectures which is then optimised to enhance and improve performance, safety and speed to market for the current and next generation of
l EMPLOYMENT: Renovo technology
vehicle OEMs. Located in the Future Mobility Campus Ireland (FMCI) in Shannon, key functions at Renovo's EMEA HQ and Software Development Hub will include management, software development, engineering, and business development. Renovo will be recruiting in the areas of Program Management, Software Architecture/ Development, and Artificial Intelligence/Engineering in the coming months. Establishing "a strong headquarters presence in the EU" was identified as "critically important" by Chris Heiser, CoFounder, and CEO, Renovo. "After a thorough investigation of potential sites, I am delighted to say that Ireland's Mid-West became the obvious location for Renovo's EMEA HQ. "This decision was made all the easier with the Mid-West's established community of Auto-tech companies and the opportunity to leverage our local efforts with key partners like Jaguar Land Rover, Seagate, and Cisco".
Fáilte Solar records €2 million turnover in first year of trading
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FAILTE
by PÁRAIC McMAHON A SHANNON company has recorded a turnover of €2m in its first year of trading. Fáilte Solar located in Western Business Park is a one-stop shopping experience for all solar products. The company state that its online portal is one of the largest and fastest-growing online wholesale store covering the spectrum of Renewable Energy, Energy Efficiency, and off-grid living. Within its first year of trading, the company has recorded an estimated turnover of €2m. "We are a profitable company in one year," Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Fáilte Solar, Abhilash Borana (pictured right) told The Clare Echo. From India, Abhilash first came to Ireland when completing a Masters in International Commerical Law at the University of Limerick in 2017. The concept of solar energy was one that piqued his interest during his studies and he spent two years researching its potential including attending exhibitions in Ireland to gauge what the market was like while also travelling to Germany to learn about the product, spending two weeks in China observing different factories plus trips to Italy and Switzerland "because these places are dominating in the solar industry". One early realisation for him was how expensive the industry is. "To start with one container, it costs €70,000 to €80,000, it is an expensive business". Key to the initial success of Fáilte Solar has been the brands they deal with, Abhilash ascertained, contacts that originated during his research trips. "The USP of our company is we only take care of quality brands, we don't deal with anything cheap. Some of the brands we have are Jinko, Hyundai will be in very soon, Huawei and
the world's biggest battery brand, we have a pretty good portfolio". Presently, six people are employed by Fáilte Solar but the goal is to bring this figure to between 30 to 40. "Our target is to acquire as much as we can, the coming 10 years will be crucial because of the 2030 Carbon Plan and Solar is the best way to go". "My goal for this company is to have a good intake in the market sale and to employ plenty. We want good employees and to focus on Europe. This will be our only headquarters, in a year or two we will have a warehouse in the Netherlands because it is cheaper to have a warehouse there. Our main target is to export as much as we can". Aged 28, Abhilash is aspiring to become a millionaire by the time he turns 30. "We have achieved a €2m turnover already, this year, the second year target is around €3€4m and we will meet it.". Shannon Airport and the prestige associated with it is the primary reason that they chose Shannon as their headquarters. "We get all the shipment from Cork Port but it is important because the Airport gives you the name, if our supplier wants to visit here they can come via the Airport".
Lakyle, Whitegate
Providing high quality cost effective renewable energy power products and services to customers Western Business Park, Unit 3B, Shannon, Co. Clare. V14 FP83
061 475 839 sales@failtesolar.com
22 COMMUNITY
Community
ENJOYING the Sites of Clare on an Equal Basis: Clare Leader Forum in partnership with Clare Public Partnership Network are launching two surveys among people with disabilities this month. They will be all sent out under a Monkey Survey and will be sent via email and social media. We want to hear how to improve choice for people with disabilities when visiting destinations in the county and bring this information to stakeholders in the tourism sector. The second survey is to gather important information on disabled people’s experiences and benchmark our experience of indepen-
CONTACT
NEWSDESK 065 671 9021 news@clareecho.ie
ENNIS
COUNTYWIDE CLARE LEADER FORUM
THURSDAY, MAY 6 2021
dence in relation to Ireland’s independence in the past 100 years. CLF want to establish how people can get the best out of life. Both surveys are targeted at a population of 13.5 per cent in Clare who according to the CSO in 2016 have a disability. This is a sizable chunk of the population. We are launching the surveys on Friday May 8 and will give four weeks to get surveys returned, ending on June 5. We are asking all people of all impairments of all ages to please fill out this survey and if people need a hand, they can email us or use social media to contact us. Our emails: clareleaderfourm@gmail. com or admin@ppn.ie . Please contact Ann Marie Flanagan on 0872740079
COORACLARE A WEST Clare father is taking on the challenge of running four virtual 10Ks in just one day to raise much needed funds for four children's charities, while also paying tribute to the memory of his young son who passed away two years ago. Supported by his wife Ailish, John McMahon has undertaken to run the 40 kilometres in memory of Cormac, a little boy who touched the hearts of all who met him. The fundraiser called "4 10Ks 4 Cormac" will take place on May 15, 2021 at 8am when John will begin the mammoth task of running the four 10Ks, four hours apart, at the West Clare Sports and Fitness Facility in Cooraclare. John, a school teacher in Cooraclare, has invited people to join him virtually on the day by doing one of the 10Ks in their own neighbourhood or favourite walking spot. He said, "This event is being held in memory of a very special little boy who passed away on May 11, 2019 - our son Cormac. As we approach Cormac's second anniversary, Ailish and I wanted to pay tribute to him and the huge positive impact his life has on his family and many friends. By organising this virtual charity run/walk in his memory, Cormac can continue to positively impact many lives through three great children's charities - The Jack & Jill Children's Foundation, LauraLynn Ireland's Children's Hospice and Bumbleance, the official Children's National Ambulance Service. The fourth beneficiary of the event will be West Clare Sports and Fitness." "We would like to invite people to join us virtually for one or more of the 10Ks, by running or walking in their favourite track, road, beach or boreen, and donate to these wor-
thy charities. And of course you don't have to walk or run to donate, every little helps during these difficult times for these essential charitable services." John McMahon will run his 10Ks in the West Clare Sports and Fitness facility in Cooraclare at 8am, 12noon, 4pm and 8pm. To donate and for further information please see https://www.gofundme.com/f/4-10ks4-cormac?utm_source=facebook&fbclid=IwAR3PEWkuFNh04RYP4ziwm-K4L6YHJDn5Sl2FvmjReaGWavIHrTEGV1wInaQ
lIN FOR A DIP: A heron stands in the River Fergus near Mill Road Bridge in Ennis
Photo by Ronan McMahon
COUNTYWIDE CANCER CARE WEST
CANCER Care West is calling on everyone who is thinking of taking on a fitness challenge this year to join their campaign, so when you reach your goal, you are also helping cancer sufferers on the West of Ireland to reach theirs. Paul Devaney, the Operation Transformation leader from Galway
lTRIBUTE: The late Cormac
Dear Sir, I would like to raise concern about the lack of objectivity around your reporting of vaccinations. I expect your paper to be a platform for all voices on body integrity and acknowledging the freewill of people in making informed choices regarding their use. Your paper consistently shows a bias towards being a voice for vaccinations therein disregarding all others. It seems to be deliberately keeping all others silenced. The peddling of HPV as a saving Messiah and virus vaccinations as a final and only solution is negligent, improper and
ENNIS/ONLINE WHY TALKING HELPS
LETTER TO THE EDITOR
violates the code of true journalism and the integrity that is required for objective reporting. Your reporting misrepresents a significant group of Clare people, and does nothing to address the many perspectives on the matter. I urge you to consider being a true voice of the people and come back into alignment with objectivity. Thank you for taking the time to read this, Laura Brennan, Ennis Director of Therapeutic Services Darkness Into Light
has signed up and is encouraging everyone to get onboard. Whether its 100 laps around the garden or 100km around the neighbourhood everyone is encouraged to get out there and up the ante in support of such a great cause. To register you can simply go to their website www.cancercarewest.ie.
ENNIS Mental Health Association is a community-based, volunteer-led organisation that, for 30 years, has consistently focused attention on mental health issues, and promoted positive mental health and wellness. They do this through providing a range of inputs including lectures, publications, activities, and community events to groups, both individually and in partnership with local organisations. In addition, EMHA is proud to host Ennis Mental Health Week each year. EMHA is extremely grateful for the huge level of support it receives, both in the town of Ennis and in the various agencies working in this field. EMHA is fully aligned to the strategic ambitions of Mental Health Ireland and is supported in its work by an MHI Development Officer. As Covid and lockdowns called an abrupt halt to all ‘in-person’ activities, EMHA transitioned to building its ‘virtual’ presence, and began hosting a varied series of events via Zoom, in the area of mental health and well-
ness (visit their website www.ennismha.com for further information). As part of their popular Spring Calendar of Virtual Events, Ennis Mental Health Association is pleased to present a not-to-bemissed evening of conversation on Thursday 13th May with the renowned Dr Tony Bates, titled, “Why Talking Helps”. A regular contributor to Brendan O’Connor’s RTE Radio1 programme, Dr Tony Bates is a Clinical Psychologist, who was Head of Psychology for 30 years in St James’s Hospital Dublin, and who established and directed the MSc Cognitive Psychotherapy in TCD until 2006. He founded Jigsaw (The National Centre for Youth Mental Health) in 2006 to serve young people and their mental health needs, and he was made honorary Professor of Psychology in UCD last September as a tribute to his contribution to the field. As a high level of interest for this event is anticipated, early booking is advised. To reserve your space, email ennisemha@mentalhealthireland.ie or call/text 085 252 4608.
Property
THURSDAY, MAY 6 2021
Beautiful homes all over the County
5 GLASSAN LAHINCH ROAD, ENNIS CO. CLARE
€300,000
NO.5 is a quality five-bedroom detached family home located in the much sought after Glassan housing development, an exclusive estate of detached & semi-detached homes on the Lahinch Road within a short distance of the Ennis bypass and M18. The property offers an abundance of space and light in one of Ennis’s most established and sought-after residential areas. It is well positioned to the front of the estate and is within walking distance of Ennis town centre. Constructed circa 2001, this property offers all that one would possibly desire in terms of modern comfort and convenience. Homes in this idyllic location rarely come to the market making this one of the finest properties to become available for some time. This exceptional family home is finished to a very high standard throughout with a host of design features such as a solid fuel fireplace with cast iron inset and a raised granite hearth in the living room and a solid pine kitchen & island taking centre stage in the kitchen.
NEWGROVE CARRAHAN, TULLA CO CLARE
€350,000
GARVOGHIL INAGH, CO CLARE V95 EF64
23
€255,000
GARVOGHIL is an exceptional four-bedroom detached family home with an abundance of living space set on a 0.75-acre approx. site and located within ten minutes walking distance of the centre of Inagh village. Built in 2000, this home is in excellent decorative order throughout. This beautiful family home is finished to a very high standard throughout with a host of design features including a red deal timber staircase, solid fuel fireplace with a walnut surround in the sitting room, solid oak timber kitchen and a raised granite hearth with a feature arch brick surround accommodating a solid fuel Stanley stove in the main kitchen/ dining room. It is entered via the main entrance hall which is bright and spacious with distinctive engineered laminate flooring. There is a large sitting room to the front of the house with a solid fuel fireplace, oak flooring, and a front aspect bay window. The main kitchen/dining room is recognisably the heart of the home and comprises a hand-crafted kitchen with granite countertops, integrated appliances, gas hob & ceramic tiles.
Jason Pyne Sherry FitzGerald McMahon Licence No: 001212 065 686 7866
SHERRY FitzGerald McMahon are delighted to offer for sale this fantastic four bed detached property on a substantial private site measuring 0.59 acres located in Newgrove, Tulla. Located in a semi-rural area that offers the many benefits of country living while also remaining accessible to all local amenities lying 5.3km west of Tulla village. It is a short eight minute drive from both Ennis and the M18 motorway. Constructed in 2004, this property offers all that one would possibly desire in terms of modern comfort and convenience. Homes in this idyllic location rarely come to market making this one of the finest properties to become available for some time. This exceptional family home is finished to a very high standard throughout with a host of design features such as a white granite fireplace surround with insert gas fire & oil-stained walnut timber flooring in the sitting room and a handcrafted pippy oak solid wood kitchen. The property is entered via the front door leading into a bright entrance hall with distinctive polished porcelain tiles and a stunning feature staircase. The hallway leads into the main kitchen/dining room area. Jason Pyne Sherry FitzGerald McMahon Licence No: 001212 065 686 7866
TULLAGOWER COORACLARE CO CLARE
30 ST. PATRICKS TERRACE KILRUSH CO.CLARE
OLD DOONBEG NATIONAL SCHOOL DOONBEG CO CLARE €125,000
€260,000
TULLAGOWER is a superb 4 bed detached family home set on approx. 0.59 acres. It is situated just 500m off the N68 Ennis to Kilrush road and 6.5km east of Kilrush. Originally built circa 1981, this property has been well maintained and tastefully upgraded into a modern home. This exceptional family home is finished to a very high standard throughout with a host of design features, including several feature front aspect windows capturing the spectacular views of West Clare from the elevated site. A solid pine kitchen that has been tastefully sprayed incorporates a classic oil-fired Stanley range. A marble fireplace accommodates a gas fire in the main sitting room. The property is entered via a bright main entrance hall with distinctive solid walnut timber flooring. The main kitchen/dining/sunroom is recognisably the heart of the home and comprises a hand-crafted pine kitchen, leading edge countertops, integrated appliances, gas hob, Stanley range & ceramic tiles. A door off the kitchen merges into the sunroom which in turn merges onto a beautifully appointed side patio area. Jason Pyne Sherry FitzGerald McMahon Licence No: 001212 065 686 7866
€110,000
THE PROPERTY is situated in the mature residential area of St Patricks Terrace on the outskirts of Kilrush town. St Patricks Terrace is adjacent to Kilrush Community College and just off the Cooraclare road. The residence is within walking distance of the town and its services and amenities. Kilrush is a busy trading town and the largest in west Clare, while it offers attractions such as the Marina, the Vandeleur Gardens and Cappa Pier. Kilrush is a heritage town that offers a wide range of services and amenities such as pubs, supermarkets, restaurants, cafés, banks, credit union, church, primary and secondary schools, library, golf club etc. This property is a three-bed mid-terraced dwelling house that is in good condition throughout. The residence accommodates a kitchen, sitting room, bathroom and bedroom on the ground floor while upstairs consists of two double bedrooms & WC. The dwelling is approximately 60 years old and has oil fired central heating with double glazed windows and doors. The property includes a large garden plot to the rear of the dwelling house and there is a small block built garage on this section. Jason Pyne Sherry FitzGerald McMahon Licence No: 001212 065 686 7866
Jason Pyne Sherry FitzGerald McMahon Licence No: 001212 065 686 7866
THE OLD School house in Doonbeg village is an excellent centrally located site in the heart of the village. The building is in need of significant repair and refurbishment but has the potential for a number of residential, commercial or community uses subject to any required planning permission. The site extends to 0.3 acres approximately. The floor area of the building is 198 sqm approx.
Diarmuid McMahon Sherry FitzGerald McMahon Licence No: 001212 065 686 7866
Sport Clare Echo THE
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Marksman Shan ready to answer call of duty EOIN BRENNAN
L
AST seen in gamer mode taking out opponents in ‘Call of Duty’ alongside Shane O’Donnell and Diarmuid Ryan for a Club Clare promotional video a few weeks back, Aron Shanagher is primed to answer the call to arms once more for Clare as they finally kickstart their season against Antrim this Sunday following a six month absence. “It’s great to be back. We had been doing a bit ourselves obviously all the way through but that’s nowhere near the same and once you get back into training with everyone, you kind of get that competitive edge back again. It’s hard to keep that up when you’re constantly by yourself but it’s great that we now have light at the end of the tunnel really at the weekend,” Aron told The Clare Echo. A noted rising star throughout his hurling career, the Shannon native leaped straight from minor in 2015 to winning a National League and making his senior inter-county championship debut 12 months later off the bench against Waterford. However, it was that hat-trick of goals in his first championship start against Laois in the following qualifier match that emphatically announced his arrival at the
top level, albeit that injuries and a supersub impact reputation have meant that he has only started seven championship matches since. All hopefully consigned to the rearview mirror as Shanagher, who turns 24 next week, has never felt better going into a new season and unexpectedly claims to even enjoy running now, having worked during the lockdown with Clare’s new backroom triumvirate of Mike Carmody (Athletic Development Coach), Trevor Slattery (S&C Coach) and Shane Hassett (Sports Science, S&C Coach). “To be honest, I’ve never felt better in my life. It’s been the best training block I’ve ever done and I feel the fittest that I ever have so I’m definitely confident going into the new season and please God, I can stay injury-free and be able to play every game. Having been through lockdown training before last year, we kind of knew what to expect this time around and were better able to adjust. If anything you become more competitive, even just to try and beat your times and stuff from last year. “We had three different voices helping us over the past few months in Mike, Shane and Trevor and each one of them brings their own specialist expertise so I definitely benefitted from that. Look I know injuries and stuff have stopped me a bit in the past but now hopefully I can show that I can be consistent throughout the whole season and put together a
Aron Shanagher Photo by Martin Connolly
really good year for the team all going well.” And with five matches to come over the next six weeks, Shanagher is eager for Clare to make their mark in the upcoming National League which commences on Sunday in Corrigan Park in Belfast (1pm) when taking on newcomers Antrim who secured a league (Division 2A) and championship (Joe Mc-
NET
Donagh Cup) double in 2020. “I’m definitely looking forward
to having a good few games now. I suppose at the start of the year, the talk was about two or three league games to get ready for championship but having not hit a ball all year, that would have been tough. But now that we have five league games, it will be good to get to know each other again on the field, how we’re going to play together and be able to try stuff out in the next few weeks. “Heading up to Antrim as well, we know we’re in for a tough first test. Their confidence is high after last year and they’re a proud county that will be gunning to hitting the ground running themselves so we can’t take anything for granted. We’ve been waiting a long time for this to come around so we’ve just got to make the most of it over the next few months.” The wait is finally over.
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Cellnet partner with Clare Echo as sponsor of hurling coverage RURAL Broadband and Telecom service provider CellNet are proud to partner with The Clare Echo as the main sponsor of their hurling coverage for 2021. The Ennis based company are excited to be able to connect local communities to sport and rural connectivity is their way of fusing that togetherness county wide. "The life and soul of Clare is hurling. Everywhere you go, you see someone walking down the street with a hurley. We want to be a part of that. We hope to stand by these teams when we are a big company. We want to support them; we want to be able to sponsor them in future," outlined operator Jonathan Cronin and owner Nick Manowski. One service CellNet offers is the ability to amplify signals from your car, something which they hope will make portable broadcasters of all hurling and football enthusiasts and allow fans to send live pictures and up-
dates as games unfold. "We are not just another corporate entity in an ivory tower, we are that friendly face that's local. We are here to make sure you get the enjoyment out of your community that you need. It's great to be able to work with The Clare Echo and be a part of the community," Nick stated. Clare Echo Sales Executive Niall O'Connor said he was delighted to see the partnership come to fruition. “Cellnet are a respected local company and like The Clare Echo, customer service is at the forefront of their philosophy. I would encourage all readers to check out their services in the coming weeks. “Our sports coverage continues to grow thanks to companies such as Cellnet. We would like to wish the Clare hurlers all the best for their campaign and look forward to bringing you coverage each week, which will hopefully culminate on All-Ireland final day”.
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Clare Echo THE
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‘Antrim will want to make a statement’ SEAMUS HAYES CLARE’S Allianz hurling league campaign for 2021 will begin in far away Corrigan Park in Belfast on Sunday (throw in at 1pm) when they face newly promoted Antrim. While the Banner county outfit will carry the favourite’s tag into the tie they can take nothing for granted against the Ulster side who are determined to make an impression in the top division this year. Sunday’s fixture is the first of five league ties that will be played over the next six weeks in the lead up to the championship where Clare will face Waterford in the Provincial quarter final with Tipperary awaiting the winners in the Munster semi-final.
Eibhear Quilligan Photo by Tommy Dickson / INPHO
Goalkeeper and 2020 Allstar nominee Eibhear Quilligan is adamant that “we cannot take anything for granted. Having just gained promotion they will want to make a statement. They will see this as a chance to take a big scalp and will be marking this game as a huge fixture so it is important that we don’t give them anything”. The Feakle clubman is, like his fellow county panellists, “delighted to be back. We have been waiting so long to get back and it’s brilliant to be back as a group. The group involvement is important as there is only so much you can do on your own, particularly during the winter months. Everyone has put in savage work and I hope that we can now put what we have done on our own into practice”. Eibhear believes that the schedule of five games in six
weeks “brings opportunity. Everyone will get time and that’s what a panel is there for. All these games will give everyone a chance and it’s up to those involved to take that opportunity. It will mean more rotation and it will give the backroom team the opportunity to see where everyone is at”. While “the league is important the championship is where it is at. That’s where the real cut and thrust comes into it as it steps up a little but, that said, we will not be taking anything for granted in the league”, the custodian stressed. With John Conlon back at full fitness, Quilligan said his return along with that of Conlon’s Clonlara clubmate Colm and Ian Galvin has given the panel a boost. Quilligan doesn’t feel that the absence of challenge
games will prove a problem. “Over the past couple of weekends we have had practice matches involving all of the squad whereas if we were playing challenge games it would not have been possible to give all game time. Lads seem to be moving well while new guys in the management team such as Mike Carmody, Shane Hassett and Trevor Slattery have kept on top of us and brought a great freshness to the scene”. “Right now the whole focus is on Sunday’s game and we won’t be taking our eye off the ball. It’s their first year up in the division for some time and they will be looking to push on. We must be ready to meet that challenge”, concluded the LIT graduate who is competing with Donal Tuohy (Crusheen) and Eamonn Foudy (Inagh-Kilnamona) for the goalkeeper’s jersey.
Membership Centre back role for John Conlon Offerings Membership Offering What's included?
Club Clare hat
Specially commissioned Club Clare Pin Badge & Car Bumper Sticker
Text Alerts for all Clare team announcements in both Hurling & Camogie
Entry to Members Draw for opportunities to win or purchase tickets for Championship Hurling & Camogie games. (Contingent on COVID restrictions)
Exclusive Club Clare bi-monthly E-zine
Access to open training sessions to meet players from Senior Hurling & Camogie panels Member-Only digital content
Access to virtual Q&A's with Hurling and & Camogie management and players
Member-only vote for Clare's Player of the year in both Hurling (Senior, Under 20 & Minor) and Camogie (Senior, Junior & Minor) Additional Draw for overseas members for flights, accommodation and tickets should Clare reach All-Ireland Senior Championship Finals in either Hurling or Camogie (Contingent on COVID restrictions)
Individual
Family
Single Membership
Multi-Member
Note: If purchasing on behalf of someone else please remember to enter their details in the sign up form.
Gift packs are quadrupled
€50
€100
Alternative membership option
If you wish you can post your membership with name/address/Eircode & phone no to:
Caroline O'Connor Treasurer Club Clare Knockanean Ennis, Co. Clare V95 X2FH.
www.clubclare.com
CLARE’S senior hurlers will be the county’s first side in competitive action this year when they make the trip to Antrim over the weekend, writes Páraic McMahon. Brian Lohan’s charges kick off their Allianz National Hurling League campaign with the long trip North where they will face off with Darren Gleeson’s side. Inter-county managements will be toying with the possibility of trialling out new players during their five league encounters. Injury ruled John Conlon out of Clare’s championship bid last year in what was Lohan’s first season in the hotseat. Supporters will be surprised to hear that Conlon has featured at centre back in internal games and is tipped to wear number six. His clubmates Colm and Ian Galvin have also returned to the panel and will be vying for starting jerseys. Inagh/Kilnamona’s David Fitzgerald lined out at centre-forward during a training game at Clarebbaey last weekend while The Banner’s Shane Meehan was said to have caught the eye at corner forward with Aron Shanagher also reported to be in impressive form in attack. Meehan alongside All-Ireland winning handballer Mark Rodgers of Scariff, Smith O’Briens’ Cian Nolan, Harty Cup winning joint captain Cian Galvin from Clarecastle, Broadford defender Paddy Donnellan and Wolfe Tones’ Darragh Lohan, a nephew of the manager will be hoping to make their senior debuts during the course of the competition. Members of Clare’s All-Ireland winning panel from 2013, Seadna Morey, Aaron Cunningham and Cathal McInerney have departed the squad following the county’s All-Ireland quarter-final defeat to Waterford last year.
CLARE NHL FIXTURE GUIDE 2021 DIVISION 1, GROUP B Sunday, May 9, 1pm Round 1: v Antrim, Corrigan Park, Belfast Sunday, May 16, 1pm Round 2: v Wexford, Cusack Park, Ennis Sunday, May 23, 3pm Round 3: v Laois, MW Hire O’Moore Park, Portloaise Saturday, June 5, 5.15pm Round 4: v Dublin, Parnell Park, Dublin Sunday, June 12, 3pm Round 5: v Kilkenny, Cusack Park, Ennis Division 1 Relegation Play-Off The bottom teams in the two Division 1 groups meet in a play-off with the losers being relegated to Division 2A.
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instagram.com/ClareEcho twitter.com/ClareEcho facebook.com/clareecho clareecho.ie
Camogie stars ready to boycott league By SEAMUS HAYES
Chloe Morey
THE Clare senior camogie players have been preparing for the past number of weeks for the opening round of the National League when they are due to meet Galway on May 15 at Kenny Park in Athenry, but at this moment they don’t know whether or not the game will take place. A weekend meeting of the Camogie Ard Comhairle decided that the National League would commence on May 15, when this concluded club championships would begin and the final competition to start would be the All-Ireland inter-county series. Over 80% of the players have opposed this (84% of 752 players) and will boycott the league unless the association proceeds with a split season as was the case last year. The Gaelic Players Association has welcomed the Camogie Association’s decision to reflect on the proposed season’s structure and have said that they are “willing to work with them towards finding a satisfactory resolution”. “We support the players and we are following what the players want. The association has gone against what the players want and the situation is not satisfactory. We have been preparing for a league game on May 15 and at this minute we don’t know whether or not that will take pace,” Clare senior manager Ger O’Connell told The Clare Echo. He added, “The club players are not allowed back training yet whereas the inter county players have been back in training. It would seem to be common sense to proceed with the inter county calendar. The Camogie Association have said that they will conduct a vote amongst the clubs. In fairness to the Clare board they have shown support for the players in this”. Chloe Morey from Sixmilebridge and la-
Photo by Caroline O’Keeffe
dies footballer Carol O’Leary of Newmarket-on-Fergus are both in the WGPA. Chloe outlined, “This has been made out to be a club versus county issue and it is not. I am a club player first. They want to start the club championship in the middle of June and we are not allowed back to club training until next week. From a club point of view I want to play ten or twelve games with Sixmilebridge, last year worked well. “With what has been suggested now it’s not fair that the club would only see their inter county players once a week. We must all be on the same page in this. I believe the camogie association meant well and now they are allowing the clubs to vote on the issue. The players have threatened to boycott the league if this isn’t resolved”, the Shannon based teacher said.
Double delight for ‘Bridge A DOUBLE for Sixmilebridge’s Stephen Murray was the highlight for Clare greyhound followers in Galway over the weekend while Kilmaley owners also showed class on the track. In the early strides of race two in Galway on Friday in this S5 graded contest both Ballyvoe Ace and Burnpark Lexi were away smartly towards the wide outside with Burnpark Lexi taking two lengths advantage as they approached the opening bend. On straightening for home the John Maher and Richard Pyne of Kilmaley owned Ballyvoe Ace really found his stride on the wide outside as he swept through to win going away by two & a half lengths from Ballaghboy Panda in 19.28. Racing opened with a Novice 525 Yards contest as Coolavanny Robin controlled proceedings from
the opening bend. The Noel Hehir of Inagh owned dog defeated Jumeirah Digger by two & a half lengths in 29.54. Race five went to the Kim Bends and Tony Brigdale of Ennis owned Blaze Hero who just held the renewed challenge of Dynamic Blake by half a length at the line in 30.26. The highlight of Saturday night at the College Road venue was a double for Sixmilebridge handler Stephen Murray. In the S2 graded 11th contest the Rachel Murray and Sean O’Riordan owned Derra Misty was very smartly into her stride from trap two berth. Railing well at the opening bend she stayed on well to score by two lengths in 19.15 and complete a double for trainer Stephen Murray. The opening leg of the kennel brace came in the
Considine on Team of Six Nations
KILMIHIL’S Eimear Considine has been selected on the 6 Nations Team of the Championship. Full back Considine was chosen on the team which had over 80,000 votes cast on social media by supporters. She was joined on the team by Munster’s Dorothy Wall and also by international colleagues, Cliodhna Moloney and Beibhinn Parsons. Eimear was one of Ireland’s try scorers when they recorded an impressive 45-0 win over Wales. They finished second in Pool B of this year’s championship behind France, registering one win and one defeat.
Personal best for O’Neill QUIN’S Alex O’Neill set a new personal best 800m time in the US over the weekend. Alex ran in the Virginia Grand Prix 800m final finishing in sixth place in a time of 2.08.08. This time saw Alex
win her division but also set a new personal best. Prior to this, Alex finished first in her heat in the 800-metre (2:08.09). Virginia graduate Michaela Meyer broke her own record in the same
race, she clocked a time of 2:01.82 and ranks as the eighth best time in the nation this season. In 2019, Alex moved to Rhode Island as part of her athletics scholarship at Providence College.
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A5 graded seventh contest over 575 Yards in which on the long run towards the opening bend Loose Woman and Miss Cindy both showed pace towards the inner. Turning into the back straight the Helen Vaughan owned Loose Woman began to gradually take command and as she passed halfway the Stephen Murray trained daughter of Laughill Blake & Ranchers Rainbow galloped clear to score by five and a half lengths in 31.63. The outcome of the S9 graded race three was settled at the opening bend where crowding allowed eventual winner Tromora Sunshine skip clear around the wide outside. The Kathleen Hogan of Quilty owned Tromora Sunshine raced clear and defeated Pal Drew by six and a half lengths in 19.68.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
THURSDAY, MAY 6 2021
PLANNING NOTICES CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL FURTHER INFORMATION / REVISED PLANS PLANNING PHAYERS ROAD, MEELICK, CO. CLARE REF: P20/673 Development Description: Construct a dwelling, garage and associated site works Location: Phayers Road, Meelick, Co. Clare Take notice that Suzanne O’Connor has lodged significant further information in respect of planning application P20/673. 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 notices by the planning authority. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL TULLIG, CROSS Take notice that M. B. Downes intends to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to erect proposed dwelling house, foul sewer treatment plant, percolation area and new site entrance 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 QUILTY EAST, QUILTY Take notice that R.Johnston intends to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to retain and extend exiting apartment 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 CLOGHAUNDINE, LISCANNOR, CO. CLARE. Take notice that Michael Keating Dip. Arch. (phone 085-8421780), on behalf of Bernadette and Richard Dixon, intends to apply to Clare County Council for full permission to construct 1 no. new Dwelling House and garage and new site entrance. Connect to proprietary Waste Water Treatment System, connect to public services and carry
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out all ancillary site works at Cloghaundine, Liscannor, 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. 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.
planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, Clare County Council, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application.
CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL LACK WEST, KILMIHIL, CO CLARE Take notice that Michael Kelly intends to apply to the planning authority for permission (a) to demolish an existing cottage in ruins and (b) to construct a new dwelling house and garage complete with sewage treatment system along with ancillary works at the above address. The
CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL URLAN MORE, NEWMARKET-ONFERGUS, CO. CLARE. Take notice that Michael Keating Dip. Arch. (phone 085-8421780), on behalf of Marty & Kaye Campbell, intends to apply to Clare County Council for permission to retain the following: (a) to retain separate Garage
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CLASSIFIEDS
PLANNING NOTICES to rear of Dwelling House; (b) to retain Sunroom to rear of Dwelling House; (c) to retain Link between main House and converted Garage; (d) to retain window which has replaced garage door to front at Urlan More, Newmarket-on-Fergus, 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. 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.
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CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL SHANNON INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, SHANNON We, EI Electronics, intend to apply for permission for extension to Centre of Excellence Building at EI Campus, Shannon Industrial Estate, Shannon, Co.Clare. The development consists of the demolition of an existing service yard and enclosing walls to facilitate the construction of a two-storey Gym facility connected to the existing building. Including external services area and all associated site works. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its Public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of a fee of €20.00, within the 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, DOUGH, SPANISH POINT, CO. CLARE Take notice that K. Twomey intends to apply to the Planning Authority for permission to retain the following a) the side and rear extensions to the dwelling house b) additional windows and changes to windows on the elevations of the dwelling house c) the front boundary wall and site entrance as constructed along with associated site works at the above address. That the planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.
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PLASTERING
THANKSGIVING. ST. JUDE.
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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.
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30 PUZZLEPAGE
THURSDAY, MAY 6 2021
THIS WEEKS PUZZLES MAY 6
WORD SEARCH
SUDOKU
4/30/2021
Facelift
Flight
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HOW TO PLAY
Sudoku is a logic puzzle where you have to populate the grid with numbers. A number can appear only once in each row, column and house. Each puzzle can be solved using logic from the given information and requires no guesswork.
1
2
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2
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3
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QUIZ 31
THURSDAY, MAY 6 2021
The Clare Echo Quiz TULLA CÉILÍ BAND QUIZ
The Tulla Céilí Band was founded In what year did the Tulla capture its 1Hayes, by Paddy Canny, fellow fiddler P.J. 6 first All-Ireland Fleadh Cheoil title? pianist Teresa Tubridy, and ac-
his employers at Clare County Council for his involvement. What role did he have with the local authority when these complaints were lodged?? Acting County Manager Acting County Engineer Acting County Librarian
Band members received 12 shillings 4 each for their first professional performance, where did it take place? Scariff Killaloe Ennis
20 25 30
music festival is named after which 8Aformer member of the Tulla? Frankie Gavin Willie Clancy John McKenna
X is worn, the Tulla can be 9Wherever heard,” Cllr Bill Chambers (FF) then Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council said of the band at a civic reception in 2016. What is X? Claret & Amber Beige Green
In 1958, the Tulla Céilí Band delivered 2008, the band featured in what? 5 a memorable St Patrick’s Day perfor10InA billboard campaign by Clare mance whereby they recorded their first LP at which noted music venue? Sydney Opera House The Queens Carnegie Hall
County Council A stamp by An Post St Patrick’s Day celebrations at the Whitehouse
Spot the Difference Can you spot the difference? Spot the 7 differences. The answers will be revealed in next weeks edition.
l Tulla Ceile Band
ANSWERS
6. 1957 7. 30 8. Willie Clancy 9. Green 10.A stamp by An Post
Seán Reid was approached to join 3 the band following Teresa Tubridy’s departure, he received objections from
many years did P. Joe Hayes 7How spend as leader of the Band?
1946 Minogue’s Bar Acting County Engineer Scariff Carnegie Hall
2
At which public house was the band founded? Teddy Griffin’s Bar The Power House Minogue’s Bar
1957 1965 1971
1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
cordion player Joe Cooley in what year 1935 1946 1954
Last weeks Answers . Shadow missing . Piece of fence missing . Island missing . Reflector missing
. Bag different colour . Man’s sleves diffierent colour . window missing on tower
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