The Clare Echo 08/08/19

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8 Aug 2019

‘Rural recession’ on cards say protesters

PÁRAIC MCMAHON

I

news@clareecho.ie

14-15

facebook.com/clareecho

CLARE FARMERS’ BEEF WITH MEAT PLANT RAGES ON

12 PAGE FEATURE

AOIBHÍN

N THE region of 800 people have taken part in peaceful protests led by farmers at the grounds of Kepak in Tiermaclane for a week as they seek fairer prices for their produce. Over the last 12 months, the price of beef has dropped from €4.10 to €3.45 per kilo.

Cree’s Martin Crowley was among those on duty and revealed the prices farmers are receiving for the meat “is no longer

paying the bills”.

Crowley said he could not recommend either of his two sons to take up farming with the current prices being offered, he felt more could be done by the Department of Agriculture to assist them. Until they see progress, the farmers will not depart from their base at Kepak. “The way it is set up now we’re here for the long haul, we’ll see this out to the bitter end.”

FULL STORY PAGE 11

l GAINING MOMENTUM: Clare farmers in peaceful protest outside the Kepak factory in Tiermaclane on Tuesday Photo by John Mangan

2 NEWS

THURSDAY, AUG 8 2019

Index NEWS

AOIBHIN GARRIHY

2-13

14-15

ENTERTAINMENT

16

GORT FEATURE

17-20

GREENER CLARE

21-33

MOTORING

34-35

COMMUNITY

36-37

CLASSIFIEDS

44-45

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

NEWSDESK

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

SALES

Email: ger.naughton@clareecho.ie or niall@clareecho.ie

l FESTIVAL READY: Mike Rodgers, Chairman of the Scariff Harbour Festival Committee with author and journalist Susan McKay who officially opened the Festival last weekend

Avara workers feel mistreated PÁRAIC McMAHON

E

paraic@clareecho.ie

MPLOYEES at the Shannon site of the Avara Pharma Group say they have been treated “with contempt and disregard”.

Earlier this year, the High Court placed Avara Pharma Group in provisional liquidation upon hearing it was insolvent with debts of €9.5m a year and as such was unable to pay its employees.

Purchased from UCB Manufacturing in 2016, the company broke even in two years but has been loss making since last year.

Avara Pharma Group operates a 2,000 square metre facility in the Shannon Industrial Estate manufacturing active drug ingredients, in particular for use in the treatment of Parkinson’s disease, for pharmaceutical companies. Members of their workforce have since spoken out and have launched an online petition to secure a fair redundancy deal.

Of the 115 workers, they said “many of whom have young families or have dedicated most of their working lives to this site, face the prospect of being made redundant next week. This follows on from a haphazard consultation period and no clear communication regarding their rights or entitlements”.

Workers were critical of the liquidators involved in the process. “The previously recommended redundancy payment which would have enabled these now vulnerable workers to pay their bills and provide for their families are not being honoured by the liquidators.

Workers on this site have already had money taken out of their pockets as a result of the liquidation process.

“This is just another example of a large multinational coming to our shores and treating the Irish worker and the Irish state with contempt and disregard”.

Green Party councillor, Roisin Garvey felt staff at the Shannon plant had been mistreated. “I met some of the amazing workers from this company and to say they’ve been mistreated would be a massive understatement. 34% of them have been working there more than 15 years, half of them have been working there more than 10 years and they are all getting nothing but the statutory two weeks per year of service as a revolting redundancy package.

“There is also huge safety concerns about the lack of a proper plan for the decommissioning of the site as all the workers have been told to leave the site for good on the 14th of August even though they are really the only people with the expertise knowledge on how to decommission the site safely.”

4 NEWS

Baddiel comes to Ennis to meet Holocaust denier

STUART HOLLY

L

editor@clareecho.ie

EGENDARY English comedian David Baddiel was in Ennis yesterday (Wednesday) filming a documentary for BBC. The 55-year-old, who rose to prominance as part of the iconic duo Baddiel & Skinner who performed the English soccer anthem It’s Coming Home, told The Clare Echo that the documentary will air on BBC later this year.

Mr Baddiel's documentary, which has the working title of Holocaust Denial: A History with David Baddiel, will see the Jewish comedian and author come face to face with Holocaust deniers and talking to academics and historians to trace how denial has evolved over the decades, as he seeks to learn why so many deny the Shoah.

The BBC said Mr Baddiel, whose mother was a child refugee from Nazi Germany, would “broach taboos and find himself in often uncomfortable situations”.

This week during filming at O'Connell Square in Ennis, Baddiel spoke to Ennis resident Dermot Mulqueen (pictured above together), a man who claimed the Ho-

locaust was a hoax.

Baddiel also tweeted yesterday, " In Ennis, in Ireland, filming a documentary. Had a chat with the man on the table next to me at breakfast, but then had to go and start work. He said: "Let me not tarry you." I may come here to live."

THURSDAY, AUG 8 2019

New hedge cutting scheme for groups and landowners CLARE County Council is inviting applications to an innovative scheme to facilitate landowners and community groups in maintaining hedgerows throughout County Clare.

The Community Hedge Cutting Grant Scheme, which was the first of its kind to be developed in Ireland when it was piloted in 2013, will see €10,000 being provided to deal with the local road network over the coming autumn and winter seasons.

Applications are being invited from communities and groups before 30th September 2019. Each application will be assessed and a grant of €50 per km of hedgerow will be paid, subject to certain conditions and available resources.

Clare County Council says the Scheme will provide some financial assistance to communities and groups that undertake hedgecutting and the cutting of overhanging trees, and will assist landowners in complying with their responsibilities under Section 70 of the Roads Act, 1993.

"We are confident that this scheme, complemented by the Council's ongoing hedgecutting programme, will be of benefit in dealing effectively with this issue. Our objective is that by the start of the nesting season in March 2020, much of the worst affected local roads in the County will be significantly enhanced in their capacity to accommodate the traffic that uses them," commented John Corry, Administrative Officer, Transportation, Clare County Council.

"The Roads Act, 1993 stipulates that all growth emanating from any part of the roadside boundary structure or from within the land protected by same is the responsibility of the landowner," stated Mr. Corry. "From a road safety point of view, it is important that this responsibility is acknowledged and embraced by roadside landowners and the Community Hedge Cutting Grant Scheme is intended to provide support in this context to offset some of the costs associated with hedgecutting."

Application forms are available online via www.clarecoco.ie, and from Áras Contae an Chláir in Ennis.

Clare locals remember Kennedy-Hill PÁRAIC McMAHON

C

paraic@clareecho.ie

ONDOLENCES have been expressed and memories retold in North Clare this week following the death of Saoirse Kennedy-Hill, granddaughter of former US Senator Robert F Kennedy.

On Monday, the funeral of the twenty two year old took place at Centreville in Massachusetts.

The only child of Courtney Kennedy Hill and Paul Hill of the Guildford Four was laid to rest at a private burial following the ceremony.

A past pupil of Lahinch NS,

Saoirse was a student there between 2002 and 2007 when the family resided in North Clare.

Her parents spent their honeymoon in Doolin in 1993, relocating to the area less than a decade later.

She was found unresponsive last Thursday afternoon at the Kennedy family compound on Cape Cod and was later pronounced dead at a nearby hospital. Her death is still under investigation as the results of a toxicology report are awaited.

Among the hymns sung at the Mass included a version of the Irish ballad When Irish Eyes Are Smiling adapted with the words When Saoirse’s Eyes are Smiling.

Kilrush barber, James Cough-

lan recalled getting to know the Kennedy-Hills during their time in Co Clare. “I shared many a drink and story With Paul Hill in Doolin when he lived in Fanore. I had the pleasure of meeting his beautiful daughter on a few occassion.

My heart goes out to Paul Hill and Courtney Kennedy Hill on the passing of their beautiful daughter Saoirse”.

Kirsten Browne of Lahinch was a friend of Saoirse’s from her childhood spent in Co Clare. “You’ll be so so missed.

A good chunk of my childhood spent with you at your house and you never failed to call in and say hello every summer after you moved back to the US,” she said.

l SO TRAGIC: The past pupil of Lahinch NS was laid to rest on Monday in Massachusetts, USA

6 NEWS

THURSDAY, AUG 8 2019

Clare Garda division faces amalgamation PÁRAIC McMAHON

C

paraic@clareecho.ie

LARE’S Garda Division faces a potential amalgamation as part of major alterations within An Garda Síochána in Ireland.

Local divisions are expected to double in size with many moving significant distances into neighbouring equivalents with Clare and Tipperary pushing into the Southern Region joining Cork West, Cork North, Cork City, Kerry and Limerick.

A draft of the soon to be published Divisional Policing Model has outlined the intention to reduce the amount of Garda Divisions from 28 to 19, with similar deductions to Chief Superintendents and regions being cut from six to four, The Irish Examiner has reported.

These changes form part of Commissioner Drew Harris’ new

model of policing which will alter the delivery of policing and it’s management at local and regional level. According to the proposal, the four regions and 19 divisions would have a “relatively good spread of staff ” with 600 to 800 officers in 13 divisions, three

divisions would have more than 800 and three divisions would have less than 600.

North Western Region: Running from Mayo to Louth and from Donegal to Galway. This would replace both the current Northern Region (Donegal, Sli-

l CHANGES: Garda Commissioner Drew Harris to introduce new policing model

Official Cliffs of Moher Shuttle Bus Serving Ennistymon, Lahinch, Liscannor, Doolin, Lisdoonvarna and the coastal walk

www.cliffsofmoher.ie

go/Leitrim, Cavan/Monaghan and Louth) and all but Clare of the current Western Region (Mayo, Galway and Roscommon/Longford); Eastern Region: This would incorporate both the current Eastern Region (Meath, Westmeath, Laois/Offaly, Kildare and Wicklow) and all but Tipperary of the current South Eastern Region (Kilkenny/Carlow, Waterford and Wexford); Southern Region: This would replace the current Southern Region (Cork West, Cork North, Cork City, Kerry and Limerick) and also subsume Clare and Tipperary; In March of this year, Assistant Commissioner Anne Marie McMahon, a native of Kilmurry McMahon, said that no conversation had occurred regarding a possible merger but stressed the upcoming Divisional Policing Model would determine future plans.

IN A week where the compulsory studying of Irish for the Leaving Certificate is under threat, asylum seekers in Miltown Malbay have inquired about the prospect of being taught the language in Co Clare.

Miltown Malbay locals and some of it’s newest residents, recently arrived asylum seekers met on Tuesday morning. Facilitated by Clare Public Participation Network (PPN), the asylum seekers used the gathering to express their “huge interest” in learning about the history of Ireland, the language their willingness to volunteer in various groups. To complete their hopes of learning some of the language, they will require a teacher.

Subsequent to the meeting, Clare PPN have issued an appeal for a number of items including guitars, guitar teachers, musical instruments, an individual capable of teaching the Irish language, table tennis equipment, a basketball, art supplies and personnel to break down the history of Ireland in sections for easy learning.

Clare PPN can be contacted on 087-161-7375 or by email sarah@ clareppn.ie for individuals who may be able to assist the Direct Provision residents.

OUTWARD 1A Ennistymon to Cliffs

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RETURN TIMETABLE 1B Cliffs to Ennistymon

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Go green, stay local, enjoy for longer, walk more and leave no trace

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NEWS

THURSDAY, AUG 8 2019

7

A misjudged step in Kilkee likely to ‘result in fatality’

PÁRAIC McMAHON

P

paraic@clareecho.ie

ARENTS and guardians are being urged to take cognisance of their children’s activity in Kilkee after youngsters were filmed jumping

off a cliff edge believed to be 80 feet high.

On Friday, videos of the diving emerged on social media with shock and horror expressed by viewers fearful of the major health and safety risks.

In one video, two boys are seen

to jump from one location of the popular cliff walk into the Atlantic Ocean with three more preparing to dive in. Several walkers of the route witnessed the carry-on which has been described as “absolutely crazy” by Kilkee councillor Cillian Murphy.

“What can only be termed lunacy back at the Cliffs, parents really need to be aware of where their children are at and what they are doing,” the Fianna Fáil representative stated.

“This jump is approx 80 feet high, and one misjudged step back here

and the best outcome is a permanent life changing injury, the more likely result is a fatality.”

Throughout the summer, Clare County Council has reminded parents to supervise children near water and to only swim between red and yellow lifeguard flags.

l DANGEROUS: Teens have been jumping from Kilkee Cliffs

10 NEWS

Large classes an issue ALMOST 20 per cent of Clare primary school kids are in overcrowded classes.

19.2 per cent of primary school children in Clare are being taught in classes with thirty or more pupils. Data released from the Department of Education and Skills highlighted that two thirds of all school children in Ireland are in classes with twenty five or more students, the EU average is twenty children per class. 2,581 school children in Clare find themselves in classes of thirty or more students.

Subsequently, the Irish National Teachers’ Organisation (INTO) have called on the Government to reduce the pupil-teacher ratio to 20:1.

General Secretary of the INTO, John Boyle stated, "These statistics confirm what we already know, class sizes in this country are far too high. You simply wouldn't see such figures in another EU member state. With only 11 per cent of Irish children learning in a class of fewer than 20 students, the EU average, it's clear they are being short changed.

“Smaller classes support inclusion and diversity of children and allow for more individual attention. That's why we are calling for priority to be given to class size reduction in October's budget," Mr Boyle added.

THURSDAY, AUG 8 2019

Heidi the heifer top prize in Clare raffle PÁRAIC McMAHON

F

paraic@clareecho.ie

OR what is believed to be the first time it has happened in Clare, a heifer will be up for grabs in a raffle as four young men from the county raise funds for Temple Street Children’s Hospital by running the New York City Marathon.

Ennis trio, Ciarán Burns, Dean Ryan and Pa McInerney along with Frank Melody of Newmarket-on-Fergus on November 3 will run the New York City Marathon and have set the target of bringing in €20,000 for Temple Street Children’s Hospital in the process.

On Saturday, August 17 they are holding a raffle at O’Neills Bar in Newmarket-on-Fergus where the top prize is a hereford heifer (insert) named Heidi sponsored by Melody's Farm.

Alternatively those who are not in a position to take the animal will win a €500 cash prize. In their fundraising efforts, members of the quartet have visited Marts in the county where the reaction to their prize has been very positive.

“It’s sponsored by Melody’s farm in Bunratty who breed the crème de la crème of

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cows, heifers, bulls, you name it they have it and they have bred Heidi. One farmer said it’s like a stallion winning the Gold Cup or the Grand National it’s that good, it’s the very best you can get so hopefully it will be worth more to the winner who gets to take home Heidi,” Ciarán said. His first visit to the Mart was as eventful as it coincided with a bull breaking loose and venturing towards Ennis town.

Mar at hons are gruelling and such will be the case for the four lads who would not classify themselves as runners. “On Christmas Day we went out and tried to run a kilometre, I personally couldn’t run it, we’ve all hated running like many people around the country.

“Temple Street is the number one children’s hospital in the country that has do vital life-saving work for sick kids and fortu-

nately the four of us have been in a position growing up when we weren’t affected but it touches the homes of so many people across the country, it needs much needed funds for research and development, the team, staff and sick children that are there we wanted to be a part of and help in a very small way".

Raffle tickets can be purchased online via Eventbrite and the Run4NYC Instagram page.

Former Ennis Garda lands Tipp top job PÁRAIC McMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

ed out to The Clare Echo that he is going for his third crown having been a District Officer in Clare for their 2013 All-Ireland hurling success, Limerick last year and could be preparing to assist with another homecoming should Liam Sheedy’s charges overcome Brian Cody’s Kilkenny in August.

DEREK Smart has been appointed as the Chief Superintendent of the Tipperary Garda Division.

A native of Limerick City, Derek served in Co Clare for three years based in both Ennis and Ennistymon as Superintendent.

The Garda district expanded during his time in the county to take in all of East Clare.

He returned to Henry St Garda Station in February 2015 as part of widespread reshuffles announced by then Garda Commissioner, Noirín O’Sullivan. Smart joined An Garda Síochána in 1990 and was first assigned to Mountjoy then beginning his first stint at Henry St in 1994. Three years later he was given detective duties and moved to Mayorstone Park.

A 2004 promotion to Sergeant and subsequent move to Croom followed before returning to Mayorstone Park after two years. He spent two years in Tralee after being boosted to Inspector, once again a return to Limerick resulted in his stationing at Roxboro Rd. As he continued to climb the ladder, Smart became a Superintendent starting at Clonakilty in 2012 and later that year relocated to Clare spending three years in the Banner County. lBIG JOB: Former Ennis Garda Derek On Monday he started his new role as Smart appointed Chief Superintendent of Chief Supt in Tipperary and he point- Tipperary Garda Division

NEWS 11

THURSDAY, AUG 8 2019

'Rural recession' on cards say protestors PÁRAIC McMAHON

A

paraic@clareecho.ie

N ESTIMATED 800 people in the county have thus far partaken in peaceful protests led by farmers.

Beef farmers in Clare have been gathered at the grounds of Kepak in Tiermaclane for a week as they seek to get meaningful compensation for their produce.

Those working in neighbouring counties have protested in Rathkeale and Ballinsloe.

Over the last 12 months, the price of beef has dropped from €4.10 to €3.45 per kilo.

Organised by the Beef Plan Movement, the protests have seen members of the public row in behind the farmers by dropping off food and supplies since they began. Lorry drivers entering and exiting the meat processing plant in Clare are delayed 10 minutes each by the protesters who circle the area, while on the occasion that numerous lorry drivers are in convoy delays of up to 40 minutes have occurred. Such waits have caused tensions to flare.

Chairperson of the Beef Plan Movement in Clare, Joseph Woulfe said approximately 100 people per day had attended the protests with rotas organised in six hour shifts. Before they set up shop on the R473, Woulfe had to work through a list of 150 contacts to have a team in place to cover a fortnight.

He calculated that for every €10 of beef bought by individuals in the county, the processor and retailer are getting €8 leaving farmers with 20 percent. “The price we’re getting for our beef, we fully believe it should be more, it’s a good product, go back a few months they reckoned Brexit was going to happen. It never happened but we’ve taken a savage cut and nothing has happened at all, we don’t know is anything ever going to happen, it’s on an if and a but."

Joseph is confident their actions will lead

l STANDING UP FOR THEIR LIVELIHOOD: Joseph woulfe with local farmers outside Photo by John Mangan Kepak in Tiermaclane as trucks line the road to pass the protest

to a better outcome for farmers. “We can see it putting the pressure on the cogs that need pressure put on them, this kind of pressure was never put on them ever before - not in the large scale that it is at. It looks like other farming industries are getting behind us, the lamb industry is getting behind us too because they are going on a form of protest like us. The contracting association in Ireland had an emergency meeting last week and they are backing the beef plan, the Clare Ploughing Club are backing us, all the agri-dealers in Clare are backing us, everyone has been very good dropping over food and supplies”.

However the Quilty man is fearful a rural recession is on the cards. “I’m going to put it out there that it could cause a recession in the rural areas, you’ve got your post offices and your pubs, now you half the farmers

income so what are you going to get, you’re going to get a problem and I see a problem on the horizon. That’s going to be the farmers recession tied into rural Ireland”.

Another farmer told The Clare Echo that the situation is made difficult as Kepak have been generous sponsors of local GAA clubs in Ballyea and Clondegad. Attention was also drawn to the increasing financial pressure on farming families to try put their children through college with the SUSI acknowledged in keeping Clare students in third level education.

Mayor of Clare, Cllr. Cathal Crowe has called on Minister for Agriculture Michael Creed to engage with farming organisations and the meat industry on what he described as “a worsening crisis”. His Fianna Fáil colleague, Timmy Dooley TD spoke to protesters on the picket line on Friday.

'We'll fight this to the bitter end' CLARE farmers have vowed to fight until “the bitter end” as the dispute over beef prices continues. Round the clock protests outside Kepak in Tiermaclane began last Thursday with farmers from all corners of the county partaking in the peaceful demonstrations.

Cree’s Martin Crowley was among those on duty and revealed the prices farmers are receiving for the meat “is no longer paying the bills”. Subsequently, he has had to take on extra work away from the land, “I’ve always worked off farm but it’s more so now, everything even the off-farming income goes into it to keep them going.

“I never thought this was going to happen, the factories have a monopoly, the bread is just not coming down to the farmer. If we got even a small margin to improve our prices, at least we might make a bit of a profit or break even, at the moment we’re doing it at a loss and we can’t sustain that,” he warned.

Crowley said he could not recommend either of his two sons to take up farming with the current prices being offered, he felt more could be done by the Department of Agriculture to assist them. Until they see progress, the farmers will not depart from their base at Kepak. “The way it is set up now we’re here for the long haul, we’ll see this out to the bitter end, we’re here for the long haul”.

Muireann Hannon of Adare is a qualified teacher who helps out on the farm during the school months but in a more full-time capacity during the summe. She explained to The Clare Echo why she decided to protest. “I’m here to make a stand for the people that went before me and myself, there is a lot of farming families on the line at the moment, they can’t afford to live like these factory people and I’m here to try help the community."

She admitted to being shocked following conversations held during the protest.

“There’s a massive change in relationship between the farmers and the factories, there was one time the farmers were welcomed into the factories and they were happy with their prices, now they have no point really going in. Farmers’ mental health is at an alltime low, speaking to the people here a lot of them just want to give up the ghost, it’s sad to be here listening to it”.

Carey calls for stand against 'preying' Dublin Airport PÁRAIC McMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

A

CLARE TD in the Fine Gael led Government has challenged management of Shannon Airport to stand up to the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA).

Fine Gael’s Joe Carey told The Clare Echo that a reaction is needed from the Minister of Transport and the Government to the DAA’s attempts to poach business from Shannon Airport ahead of the 2026 Ryder Cup at Adare Manor.

In the hours following the announcement that the five star resort owned by JP and

Noreen McManus, Dublin Airport described themselves as a “key gateway for overseas visitors attending” the major sporting tournament despite being much further away than nearby Shannon. According to Deputy Carey, “it was unacceptable that representatives of a state-owned company should conduct themselves in a manner contrary to the national interest”.

He felt the DAA has been guilty of “undermining Shannon” and their latest stunt was another example of “preying on Shannon’s business”.

"The DAA should be told to stop focusing its enormous resources on undermining Shannon. For several years this has been apparent in advertising campaigns that have

focused on diverting passengers from the Shannon catchment area to fly out of Dublin”.

"Without restricting the independence of either the Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) or the Shannon Group, a national aviation policy should ensure that the growth of the Dublin monopoly is curtailed in the national interest.

The pretence of Dublin being the gateway to everything on this island is a selfish myth and must be called out”.

"It is important that the Minister for Transport and the Government faces up to this challenge. It is also important that those responsible for the operation of Shannon Airport and its Board of Management should stand up to this challenge,” Deputy Carey concluded.

l CONCERNS: Deputy Carey

12

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

THURSDAY, AUG 8 2019

Ronan Scully

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK Author spreading the word of positivity

CHILDREN FIRST HOW ARE YA

M

Y heart goes out to the parents and families of the children, our children who featured in the latest figures that have recently come out about child poverty and homelessness in our country. My heart also goes out to all the parents and families of children that have been killed, lost and marooned after the various natural disasters that have happened in our world recently because of climate change conditions and all children in our world who have been brutally murdered in wars and disagreements. Listening and watching the various news programmes in recent months and reading the reports of what is happening to our young children and our youth in our beautiful country and world makes me wonder, “what life is really all about?”

Urgent action needs to happen now to address child and youth poverty in our country and world. There can be no delays or excuses. Our children have only one future and the future must happen for them now or we will have lost many of them before tomorrow even comes. I feel unless the issue is addressed straight away, child poverty will further entrench the existing two-tier society where the rich are getting richer and the poor are getting so much poorer and it will continue to blight and destroy children’s’ lives into the future. The number of children experiencing poverty and social exclusion in Ireland is appalling and it is a damning reflection of poor policy choices and decisions. It is simply unacceptable that children now represent almost 40% of all people in consistent poverty in our country of Ireland – this equates to close on 154,000 children. Too many children are growing up in hotel rooms; going to bed hungry and living in households struggling on inadequate incomes. In effect too many children are being denied a childhood. Children growing up in poverty tend to experience

the same fate as adults and that is why it is imperative that we tackle child poverty now to prevent the further entrenchment of a two-tier society where the rich get richer and the poor get poorer. We have and especially the people in power have an opportunity to move away from the austere, punitive and regressive policies that were the hallmarks of people in authority and in power in the past and implement a more progressive approach that will make real inroads into child poverty and social exclusion. We need to hold people to account for the loss of even one child’s life let alone the thousands of children that are been affected and in some cases left out to die so to speak on a daily basis in our beautiful country and world.

To My Child “Just for this morning, I am going to smile when I see your face and laugh when I feel like crying.

Just for this morning, I will let you choose what you want to wear, and smile and say how perfect it is. Just for this morning, I am going to step over the laundry, and pick you up and take you to the park and play. Just for this morning, I will leave the dishes in the sink, and let you teach me how to put that puzzle of yours together.

Just for this afternoon, I will unplug the telephone and keep the computer off, and sit with you in the backyard and blow bubbles.

Just for this afternoon, I will not yell once, not even a tiny grumble when you scream and whine for the ice cream truck, and I will buy you one if he comes by. Just for this afternoon, I won’t worry about what you are going to be when you grow up, or second guess every decision I have made where you are concerned. Just for this afternoon, I will let you help me bake cakes, and I won’t stand over you trying to fix them. Just for this afternoon, I will take us to Supermac’s and buy us both a Supermac’s meal so we both can have toys.

Just for this evening, I will hold you in my arms and tell you a

story about how you were born and how much I love you. Just for this evening, I will let you splash in the tub and not get angry. Just for this evening, I will let you stay up late while we sit on the porch and count all the stars. Just for this evening, I will snuggle beside you for hours, and miss my favorite TV shows. Just for this evening, when I run my fingers through your hair as you pray, I will simply be grateful that God has given me the greatest gift ever given.

I will think about the mothers and fathers who are searching for their missing children, the mothers and fathers dealing with their children who have suffered the evil of abuse, the mothers and fathers who are visiting their children’s graves instead of their bedrooms, and mothers and fathers who are in hospital rooms watching their children suffer senselessly, and screaming inside that they can’t handle it anymore. And when I kiss you good night, I will hold you a little tighter, a little longer.

It is then, that I will thank God for you, and ask him for nothing, except one more day...’

Is our conscience gone?

I have worked for the NGO sector in many parts of the world for over two decades now and continue to do so in many parts of Africa. We struggle to raise our little budget each year so that we might be able to pay our African staff their very small and in some cases modest salaries and run programs that make the world operate a little better, a little kinder. We struggle because fundraising is not in our DNA. Somehow talking about asking for money, even to help children and people seems difficult. And then we open up the news papers and find the pages full of articles about the ongoing Economic Crisis caused by greed, risk taking, misinformation, lack of regulation and control, poor governance and bad banking ethos. This economic crisis and enforced austerity has ruined the lives of many and put all our small businesses, companies, communi-

ty, club and charity projects and organizations at so much risk. In fact many small businesses, community projects, clubs and charities have had to close down. I often wonder do we as a people even have a conscience left any more!

Or will we continue to lie down in the face of this economic crisis.

Or will we stand up for the future of our greatest treasure – our children - on whose shoulders we have already put our future existence. It is so important to do something special with your loved ones, especially your children because life is short and we must do all we can to protect them and give them real hope for the future, for they are our future. Please remember the children in need in our world, in our country of Ireland and indeed in our towns and villages throughout our beautiful country who all need our help, support, genuine care and prayers now, for tomorrow will be too late for a lot of them. I believe there can be a brighter future for our children in Ireland and indeed in our world, but we all must shoulder the burden to do all we can to protect and give genuine care to our children and indeed learn from what has happened in some of our institutions and many other situations of where the lives of children have been affected, or ended, that have surfaced in the last few years.

Some of the images from my years of working in the developing world have faded from memory rather quickly, but I think that this one, along with some of the others I experienced during my times living in India and various parts of Africa of street children scavenging for food from trash bins and rubbish dumps won’t fade any time soon. But by being positive where we can, by been supportive of ourselves and our communities, by helping which doesn’t always cost money and by showing leadership as best we can as we go into the twilight of our years and as we enter the end of days in our own journey through life we can give true hope to our children.

PLEASE let’s do it!

Thought for the week As you’re thought for the week, look after your greatest treasure which is your children as this is a crucial time for them and for us and for all our children in Ireland and in our world. If we believe in the goodness of one another and in the true sense of community and care and genuine love for another then we will do whatever we can to help, care, support and love everyone in as much as we humanly can for there are a lot of people and especially children in need in our county, our country and our world! I pray now for children in our communities who live without either of their parents: children whose parents have died, children taken away from their parents because of abuse or neglect, children that have been abandoned or have experienced being unloved and uncared for and children who have run away from home. Guide, guard and protect these children as they move in with relatives or caring families, as they live with foster parents or adopted parents into new families or as they struggle on the street or in homeless shelters. Comfort each one who feels unloved, unwanted, uncared for and afraid. Empower those who care for them to be loving, caring, trustworthy and compassionate. Instill in our government leaders a passion and a will for protecting the most vulnerable especially our children in most need. Help us to reach out as individuals, parents and as a community to those who live without the protection and love of parents or family or indeed friends. We also pray for parents and children who have been wrongly separated, that you will end their agony and help them to be reunited. We pray this prayer for everyone’s need but especially for our children and the world’s children that they may be cared for, loved and given the chance and right to life that every child deserves. Amen.

10 YEARS OF US PRECLEARANCE AT SHANNON

S

HANNON Group’s airport company, Shannon International Airport is celebrating the 10th anniversary of the introduction of US preclearance services at Shannon.

Established at the airport on August Bank Holiday weekend 2009, Shannon was the first airport in Europe and the Middle East to offer this service, which allows passengers bound for the US to preclear agriculture, customs and immigration controls at Shannon and arrive in the US as a domestic passenger, removing any further processing stateside and saving them considerable time as a result in particular for onward connections. For the airlines it opened up the use of both domestic gates and terminals for these flights.

The first airlines to use Shannon Airport in the early days of US preclearance in 2009 were US Airways (now American Airlines), Continental (now United Airlines), Delta, Aer Lingus and British Airways.

The following year in 2010, Shannon Airport had another first, becoming the first airport in the world to offer full US preclearance for business jets. Today, Shannon remains the only airport in North America, Europe and the Middle East providing this unique service, and the only airport in the world offering passengers screening to both European and US. Transportation Security standards in the one location.

Welcoming the anniversary Mary Considine, Acting CEO, Shannon Group said: “Shannon Airport is delighted to be celebrating this anniversary with our colleagues in U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) who in turn have just celebrated the 230th Anniversary of the U.S. Customs Services on the 31st of July last.

“Over the years we have worked closely with our colleagues in CBP and the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) on process improvements and operational efficiencies and on the 1st June this year CBP extended its opening hours service for business travellers and private aircraft and offer an out of hours service to our customers when required.

“In addition, last year CBP introduced a new facial technology system to become the first airport outside the Americas to use facial biometrics to verify the identity of travellers about to enter the US.” Shannon Airport has a proud history of world first achievements, whether it’s the establishment of the world’s first duty free shop in 1945, or subsequently the first full preclearance service for private aircraft, our customers and community are central to everything we do.

“Over the past 5 years we have invested over €40 million at the airport, upgrading our runway, refurbishing our Transit lounge, adding new dining and shopping facilities, enhancing our departure gates. We have also added a new Wild Atlantic Way feature, opened Europe’s first sensory room and an Aviation gallery to name just a few. Our intention is not to rest on our laurels but to build on this into the future,” said Ms Considine.

End of year opening for six-screen Shannon cinema

I

Omniplex cinemas extend their chain to Shannon

N mid-March of last year, SkyCourt lodged plans for a four-screen cinema which included a large 210 seater, one 90 seater and two smaller auditoriums with a capacity of 50 each. Clare County Council gave the green light to the project in May. That September, SkyCourt first announced their partnership with Omniplex Cinemas with a five screen theatre to open in early 2019.

However, an alteration is currently being carried out which will see six screens installed in what was the old food court section of the shopping centre. As such, the opening which was re-scheduled for the autumn will now be postponed till the end of the year.

“Subtle changes in layout” will allow the provision of additional screens, Mark Anderson of Omniplex confirmed.

“The changes will also facilitate operational & fire safety im-

provements and provide for an overall enhanced customer experience. The extra screen will also increase the number of films we can exhibit. We apologise for the slight delay in the development, but we are confident that the long terms benefits will be worth it,” the director with Ireland’s largest multiplex cinema chain stated.

“We are very excited regarding the cinema plans as well as for what is to come once the cinema is up and running.

The addition of more screens will allow for more daily viewings of the latest releases,” Centre Manager of Skycourt, Dan O’Flynn commented.

Over the past year, Hook & Ladder and Paradise Boutique have opened their doors at the Shannon Town shopping centre which has a catchment of over 40,000 within a fifteen minute drive.

14 COLUMNIST

THURSDAY, AUG 8 2019

Aoibhín Garrihy

LOVE

CLARE

2 Years of BEO

THE NOTEBOOK

T

ODAY sees BEO Bites take to the Ladies Day stage at the Dublin Horse Show and I am so thrilled to be donning another millinery masterpiece from none other than Clare’s incredible creative talent Margaret O’Connor.

Margaret’s work has featured heavily on the racing circuit this year and she has truly become a firm favorite amongst fashion enthusiasts across the country.

We also celebrate 2 years of BEO this week having welcomed in excess of 15,000 women across Ireland and Northern Ireland. It all began in Clare so it’s fitting that we celebrate in Clare on Tuesday with a

little random act of kindness...watch this space! We’re very excited for the future of BEO and have lots of exciting projects (to be revealed!) in the coming months and as always I will share news and updates here and also on beowellness.ie My Bank Holiday was an active

BREATHTAKING: Cliffs of Moher walk

one and again I realise how special it is to live in such an amazing county.

As always the Cliffs of Moher Cliff walk was as breathtaking as ever

COVET IN

CLARE

HEY JUDE! This Jude green velvet fabric chair by Carraig Donn offers the perfect blend of timeless style and modern simplicity.

The armchair looks just as sleek placed alone in a bedroom, hallway or study and at €279 is the perfect statement piece for your home.

BUSY BEES On the go and looking for a healthy wholesome alternative to home cooking for your little ones? Uber nutritious and packed with delicious homemade flavours and textures, Pip and Pears range contains no added salt, sugar or additives and is gently cooked using Irish meat and poultry and organic fruit and vegetables. Now available at Dunnes Stores nationwide.

after another wonderful morning at Snamhaí Sasta on Sunday (the 9am sea swim in Spanish Point)...

DJ Ollie Mulloolly provided a country music disco on the beach for the hundreds of swimmers who arrived for their morning dip and the atmosphere was just fantastic. The newly arrived Asylum seekers in Miltown also came to join the festivities, were welcomed by locals and all in attendance made for an overwhelming sense of community spirit...just what’s needed in the current climate.

I would love to congratulate one of our Actors and Reactors School of Speech and Drama’s students, Holly Sturton who has just been announced as one of the recipients of the Leinster School of Music and Drama Excellence Awards for her outstanding performance at Grade 10. Approximately 15,000 students across the country take the Leinster School of Music and Drama exam each year and this excellence award

CELEBRATIONS: (top) Aoibhín celebrates 2 years of BEO. (below) Holly Sturton, one of the recipients of the Leinster School of Music and Drama Excellence Awards

accolade is only bestowed on four students in all of Ireland. We are so proud of Holly and wish her all the best in all her theatrical endeavors.

WINTER WHITES Calling all brides to be or mother of the brides! This beauty from Escada now stocked at Ella Maria Ennis is your answer to a sophisticated, demur, regal wardrobe for that all important day of or after! Classy and chic...Kate who?!

GO GRAPHIC Looking to lift a simple staple or breathing new life into your every day look? This Lennon Courtney scarf is crafted from a wonderfully fluid colorful graphic printed fabric and at €35 it won’t break the bank either. Available now at Dunnes Stores.

PURE AND SIMPLE Clare’s Airmid is 100% natural irish skincare using homegrown herbs and pure essential oils. Check out the pure chamomile fragrance free soap ideal on sensitive skin including children’s. See airmidsoap. com for more.

HAPPENINGS FEAKLE INTERNATIONAL TRADITIONAL MUSIC FESTIVAL Celebrating the best of the Irish traditional music especially the distinctive style of east Clare with five days of traditional music, song, dance and theatre with workshops, lectures, concerts, ceili’s, set dancing, sessions and openair events.

Besides providing a platform for local musicians to demonstrate their musical heritage, the Festival is noted for bringing together musicians from other traditional backgrounds to share in a unique musical experience.

BURREN BREWERY BEER AND IRISH ATLANTIC SALMON FESTIVAL A celebration of Craft Beer and Irish Atlantic Salmon.

COLUMNIST 15

THURSDAY, AUG 8 2019

Top 5 Brilliant Weekend Brunches in Clare

1

THE WOODEN SPOON, KILLALOE:

Think cosy cafe, quirky shabby chic decor and tonnes of weekend reading for you to immerse yourself in over a weekend caffeine hit...you’re on to a winner. The Wooden Spoon is the ultimate foodie spot with the heartiest of ingredients. Expect creativity and delicious signature dishes!

3

SWEET AND GREEN, ENNIS:

Want to exercise, feel part of a community and know that it’s for the greater good too? The Clare Crusaders Running troop offer all that and more.

They meet on most Saturdays of the year at 8am at the Darcy’s Corner / DNG O’Sullivan Hurley car park in Ennis and welcome runners of every ability and fitness level. With events and challenges throughout the year it’s a great place to start with plenty fundraising opportunities too.

5

2

ARMADA HOTEL, SPANISH POINT:

Whether it’s a roaring fire, dimmed lighting and a cosy corner you need or a sea view and some chilled out beach vibes the Armada Hotel has the perfect brunch offering to cure your craving! It’s an easy breezy brunch with the perfect balance of healthy and indulgent options with top class decor and hospitality to boot!

4

DOOLIN CAFE, DOOLIN:

Doolin Cafe is a becoming the ultimate brunch destination for tourists and locals alike. Situated in the traditional music capital of Ireland a spin to Doolin for brunch followed by a brisk walk along the coast or cliffs is sure to blow away any night before cobwebs! Wholesome delicious food and a warm friendly welcome makes this unassuming little spot a deadly hidden gem.

DODI, LAHINCH:

Lahinch is still buzzing from the excitement of the Irish Open and has become the perfect weekend drive destination. Dodi is just another reason to head for the coast with its creative brunch offering and sweet treats on the go. With the weather taking a little turn, the menu’s winter warmers teamed with a delicious artisan Roasted Brown have is a real highlight.

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Entertainment FULL HOUSE IN SCARIFF FOR QUEEN OF THE WATERWAYS

T

HE rain spilled out of the sky as 11 Queen of the Waterways participants did a live stage interview with former TV presenter, Ciana Campbell. It didn’t damper the enthusiasm of the crowd, however, when the tall, elegant, Ella McNamara, sponsored by Anita’s Hair Salon, was crowned the 2019 Queen, at Scariff Harbour Festival on Sunday night.

Caher-born, Ella McNamara, with 7 All-Ireland Camogie medals at school and club levels, plans to become a primary school teacher and to begin her studies at Mary Immaculate College in Limerick in the autumn. She has also completed Grades 1-12 with the Irish Board of Speech & Drama under the direction and inspiration of Cushla Murphy-Hehir.

A youth leader at her local Lough Graney Youth Club in Flagmount, she believes in the value of community and the importance of forging strong connections between young and old in the parish. She was part of a crew of seven who interviewed elderly people in the community for a documentary film, Lakeside Stories.

Co-ordinator of the Queen of the Waterways, Karena O’Brien said ‘All the girls did themselves, their families, their sponsors

and indeed their escorts proud and we cannot thank everybody enough, particularly when the weather was less than kind to us,’ she said.

The 17th Festival was officially launched by journalist, author and broadcaster, Susan McKay at the Waterways Ireland Marina and she engaged a full house at Scariff Library on the legacy of violence in Northern Ireland and the killing of her young journalist friend Lyra McKee in Susan’s native city of Derry earlier this year.

The Dublin Rock Band, Riptide Movement brought a capacity crowd to the Fairgreen for what the organisers believe was one of the largest, if not the largest, crowd in the seventeen-year history of the Festival. ‘It was a bumper week-end,’ said a delighted Mike Rodgers, Chairman of the Festival Committee.‘ Despite the downpour on Sunday night, the show still went on and people continued to enjoy themselves through it all, ‘ he said.

Children of all ages commanded the streets in their numbers, Fear na Coillte’s chainsaw revved into the distance, paddlers in coloured kayaks dotted the river, the smaller children took over the GAA Park and the older ones the Riverside Park, the toddlers loved the fire engines, Aonghus

McAnally’s tribute to Christie Hennessy became a delightful talking point and another successful festival ended with the energising sound of the Shandrum Céilí Band and Na Fianna Folk Group from Co. Laois.

The Festival Chairman went on to acknowledge Waterways Ireland, the loyal sponsors and the incredible committee whose commitment and dedication make the festival possible each and every year.

Ciana Campbell on stage prior to the Announcement of Queen of the Waterways 2019

Participants sought for new Dance Project in Clare

P

ARTICIPANTS, dancers, movers and shakers of all abilities are being sought for an exciting new Dance Project in Clare.

Clare County Council Arts Office, in partnership with Croí Glan Integrated Dance Company and the Brothers of Charity, is hosting the ‘’Boga Boga – Move Move’’ Integrated Dance Project.

Tara Brandel, Dancer/Choreographer and Director of the renowned Croí Glan Integrated Dance Company, has been invited to Clare to facilitate Integrated Dance workshops for members of the public.

Tara is a contemporary choreographer and performer originally from West Cork. Her work has been performed at Firkin Crane, Triskel Arts Centre, Cork Opera House, Cork; Project Arts Centre, Dublin, Germany; 848 Community Space, Jon Sims Centre, Dance Mission Theatre,

and Performance Showcase in San Francisco.

Siobhan Mulcahy, Clare County Council Arts Officer, commented, “Integrated Dance provides a unique nonverbal environment where disabled and able bodied people can feel their equality and shared humanity through an immediate and visceral experience.”

She continued, “Integrated Dance is an empowering experience which provides a safe environment to build up trust and confidence; increase physicality and range of motion; provide an outlet for physical expression and creativity; and celebrate the diversity of the human body, and the uniqueness of each person’s way of moving.”

The FREE workshops will take place on 27th September, 4th October and 1st November (10.00am-midday, 2.00pm-4.00pm) at Waterpark House, Drumbiggle Road, Ennis, Clare. Places are limited and require committment to all three workshops.

For further details please contact Ceara Conway (arts@clarecoco.ie / 065-6899091) or visit www.croiglan.com.

GORT

Special Feature

Milestone year remembered in Gort for Heritage Week 2019 STUART HOLLY

G

editor@clareecho.ie

ORT in 1793 was a town in transition. This was the year of the ‘Roman Catholic Relief Act’ which relieved Catholics of some of the political, educational and economic disabilities imposed under the Penal Laws. In an era of Catholic oppression, taking the oath ‘qualified’ at least 40 Gort-men to take more prominent positions in social and economic life and their details survive in ‘Qualification Rolls’.

Marking that year, a booklet ‘Gort 1793: The Qualifying and Relieving Year in Co Galway’s southerly town’ will be launched at 2:30pm on August 22 next in Kiltartan Gregory Museum. There will also be a free lecture by the author Steve Dolan, with the full proceeds from the booklet sales [€5] going to the Kiltartan Gregory Museum.

Already a ‘Post Town’, the population of Gort in 1793 was approximately 2,000 people living in 350 houses. There was still only a wooden bridge over the river east of

Bridge Street, albeit the main stone bridge in the town had been constructed in 1771. By the end of the century there would be considerable new development and several surviving buildings, including Avenue House and Courtney’s Lane corner-house, date to this period.

Agriculture dominated the daily and economic life of Gort. The main fairs were held on the 11th August and 7th November, and a weekly market was held on Saturdays. On his visit on 4 September 1776, the traveller and agriculturist Arthur Young commented on improvements being made in the area, including the introduction of ‘turnip husbandry’ at Kiltartan.

He also referenced the linen industry – ‘Every poor man sows some flax, but still they do not raise enough for their spinning, for that is universal. Every cabin has 8 or 9 acres, and two or three cows, or two cows and one horse; and about half have horses, two or three pigs, and many poultry; half a rood of flax, one acre of potatoes, or half at the medium. They live on potatoes, oats, or barley, bread, or butter’.

The army were also central to life in Gort.

There had long been a detachment of the army, revolving regiments indeed, based in

l LOCAL INTEREST: The booklet launch will take place at the Kiltartan Gregory Museum

the town barracks. They were primarily engaged in policing functions and the Freeman’s Journal of 15 September 1786 reported on ‘White or Right Boys’ at Gort with the army working hard to suppress them. At the same time, these soldiers were a welcome boon to the town’s alehouses.

Various sources have been leveraged by Steve to tell the story of the town in 1793,

with the publication primarily focusing on the aforementioned Qualification Rolls.

The booklet will be one of twelve launched during Heritage Week by Steve as he seeks to raise €10,000 for charities in the region.

For more, email sakdolan@hotmail.com or visit www.heritageweek.ie.

HERITAGE WEEK IN GORT GO WILD WITH ÉANNA NÍ LAMHNA When: 17 August, 10:30am - 12:30pm Where: Gort Tidy Towns River Walk Group, Gort, Aldi car park Join radio and television presenter, author and educator, Éanna Ní Lamhna for a walk along the Gort River.

Admission Free GORT IN 1793 When: 22 August, 2:30pm - 3:30pm Where: Irish Workhouse Centre Kiltartan Gregory Museum A lecture [Free] and booklet [€5] launch providing a snapshot of Gort during the ‘Qualifying and Relieving Year’ of 1793 by historian Steve Dolan. Full proceeds go to the Kiltartan Gregory Museum.

Admission Free FOLK & FARM When: 17 August, 2pm - 4pm Where: Yeats Thoor Ballylee Society Thoor Ballylee, Gort A short talk by Dr. Christy Cunniffe, Archaeologist, in The Studio at Thoor Balylee. Exploration of old farming techniques followed by walk to the Mill by the river.

Admission Free COOLE TURLOUGH EVENT When: 25 August, 7am - 7pm Where: National Parks and Wildlife Service, Coole Park, Gort Coole Turlough is a unique landscape

feature of international importance.

Discover why it is so special. Learn about our most precious resource water, and how water quality is vital to life itself. Presentations and walk by expert guest speakers. This free event is a collaboration between the National Parks and Wildlife Service and the Local Authority Water and Communities Office.

Admission Free COOLE WILD CHILD EVENT When: 21 August, 11am - 12:30pm Where: National Parks and Wildlife Service, Coole Park Visitor Centre, Gort Fun nature walk with activities and games for children aged 5 to 12. Learn about the plants and animals that live here in the nature reserve. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Admission Free THE ART OF SONG When: 24 August, 8pm - 9:45pm Where: Yeats Tower Thoor Ballylee, Gort An evening of song with soprano Helen Hancock and Mark Keane on piano.

From Baroque and Opera to Art Song.

In a friendly atmosphere we will present the stories behind each song so that the music comes to life. There will be an interval with refreshments.

Admission & Booking Adult: €10 Child: €5

18 GORT IN FOCUS

Quack turn of events at 38th Gort Show takes a twist with novelty herding of ducks, while fitting tribute is made for former committee member Pat O’Donnell STUART HOLLY

A

editor@clareecho.ie

LTHOUGH the 2019 edition of the Gort Show is tinged with great sadness in some respects, organisers ensure the local community are in for brilliant day out this Saturday as dogs, ducks and dances take centre stage.

The Gort Show has been a constant for the South Galway town for almost four decades now and the 38th edition takes place at the Gort Community Centre, with the horse show taking place at Stanford’s Field on the Loughrea Road. However one constant that will be sorely missed this weekend is the presence of former committee member Pat O’Donnell, following his sad death in January of this year.

Mr O’Donnell, a former garda and father of four, was part of the furniture at the Gort Show and a particular driving force behind

the annual dog show. The Pat O Donnell Dog Show has been renamed in fitting memory of Pat, and Gort Show PRO Maura Leonard tells The Clare Echo, “Pat ran the Dog Show for many years and he will be greatly missed at this year’s show. It won’t be the same this year without him.

“He was a huge man, he was such a presence,” she said, adding that Pat’s daughter Deirdre has taken over his position on the committee. “He was a gentle giant, and he did everything [for the show]. The committee misses him and it’s nice to have this show in tribute to him and it’s great that his daughter Deirdre has taken over.”

Along with Pat, the Gort Show has also lost other contributors and long-time attendees over the last year, including Tommy Maguire, who was the sound engineer for the Show, Vincent Moloney, uncle of present Chairperson Mary Moloney, and Anne Walsh who was a member of the Gort Show l SADLY MISSED: Former Gort Show from the beginning. committee member Pat O’Donnell However, the show must go as they say, and Gort Show will be officially opened by dent ICA, at 1pm on Saturday.

Sharon Kelly, of North West Regional PresiWith over 230 competitive classes and

Queen St, Gort, Co. Galway (091) 632 581

www.cafe21.ie

programme of events guaranteed to give young and old a great day out. The dog show, for its part, is always hugely popular (with 24 categories last year) and people can bring their dogs and enter on the day.

There is sure to be plenty of competition in the various show classes which includes All Ireland Photography Final, Aerial Photography class; a display of Pygmy goats; the Glamorous Granny competition and most appropriately dressed lady and not forgetting the Bonny Baby competition. There will also be dancing to country & western band Outback.

One event which is sure to be a popular attraction is the Novelty Sheepdog Trials by Westport Sheepdogs, who cunningly steer ducks through various obstacle courses.

Maura explains, “This year we have a novelty sheepdog trial from Westport, instead of herding sheep, the dogs are herding ducks.

They have little obstacle courses, it’s going to be most unusual and that’s a great attraction for us this year at the community centre. It’ll be something totally different that people wouldn’t have seen.”

Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 9am to 5pm Sunday, Closed.

BARISTA COFFEE, SWEET TREATS, HEALTHY OPTIONS, FRESH DELI

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GORT IN FOCUS

19

the 2019 Gort Show...

And that’s all before we get to the horse show, which has five All-Ireland Qualifiers.

“The horse show is a big thing. Some people only go to the horse show, they love that part of it so much.”

The photography final is sponsored by the local Credit Union, with a €500 prize purse creating great interest, while there will be 14 raffle prizes from garden benches to coffee tables to vouchers, mostly worth in the region of €100.”

Maura continues, “It’s a community event, a day out for people in Gort and it’s uplifting. Last year it was great, we had bands and people dancing in front of the stage and we have a country & western band playing this year. It’s good for people to get out for a day; some people are totally passionate about the show and we’re delighted to be here putting on the 38th year.”

The committee also moved to thank Gort Show’s main sponsors Marcus Motors, silver sponsors Credit Union and the Gort Tyre Centre who are sponsoring the vintage display.

With everything ready to go for the 2019 Gort Show, Maura quips that all they can do now is pray for a sunny day, “Surely Pat will say a word upstairs and get good weather for us!”

Entry to the Gort Show is €10 for adults and €5 for OAPs and students.

l BRILLIANT DAY: Shauna Gillane, Ciara Mahan, Rolo the Westie, Sara Fahey and Cora Crean from Gort attending last year’s Gort Show Photo by Martin Connolly

GORT & DISTRICT SHOW Saturday, 10th August 2019

At Community Centre & Community School Grounds, Gort Horse, Pony & Donkey Sections in ‘Stanford’s Field’ Loughrea Road, Gort

OVER 250 CLASSES

Home & Garden Produce, Flowers, Handcrafts, Photography, Primary & Young People’s Sections, Horses, Ponies, Donkeys, Poultry, Cats, Dogs & Pets

AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHY CLASS & DRONE DISPLAY ALL IRELAND PHOTOGRAPHY FINAL Judging of Horses & Ponies -11.00 am (entries taken on the day also) Dog Show Entries taken from 11.30 am — Judging 1.00 pm BONNIE BABY COMPETITION 1.15pm

Novelty Sheepdog Trials by Westport Sheepdogs Glamorous Granny Competition Sponsored by Cosy Home Heating Most appropriately dressed Lady sponsored by Claddagh Health & Beauty

Judge Mandy Maher of Catwalk Model Agency

Display of rare Cameroon Pygmy Goats by Monaghan Goats of Galway, Novelty Competitions By South Galway Macra Na Feirme

Vintage Display of Cars, Tractors & Working Engines sponsored by Gort Tyre Centre

Display of Woodwork on stage by students of Gort Community School Trade Stands Special appearance of Woody from Toy Story Live entertainment by “Outback” & “The Good Friends” Kiddies Entertainment & Novelty Events, Face Painting & Hair Braiding Catering by Sullivans Hotel, Gort (no food vans permitted) Official Opening 1pm by special guest Admission: ADULTS: €10 Families: €15

A great day out for all the family..

MAIN SPONSOR

MARCUS MOTORS

General Enquiries: Fidelma on 087-2622332 www.irishshows.org/gort Find us on Facebook at Gort Show

20 GORT IN FOCUS

Flooding still an ever-present winter time worry in Gort PÁRAIC McMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

G

ORT residents are living in constant fear of repeat flooding.

In 2009, Gort was hit by unprecedented flooding which occurred six years later with the elderly airlifted to safety as roads were impassable. Scars still remain for home and business owners in the South Galway location who remain on red alert.

Back in October 2003, the Derrybrien landslide changed the local landscape forever, devastating the community, farmers and their livestock. All the while, a 71 turbine wind farm was being developed at Derrybrien, some 15km outside Gort.

Such events led to the formation of the South Galway Flood Relief committee, who two years ago brought their case all the way to the European Commission in Brussels.

‘Solution architect’ David Murray has been at the helm of the local group, “We wanted to highlight the effect of the landslide and that is why we went to Europe”.

“We don’t believe that the wind farm developers even considered flooding when environmental impact assessments were carried out,” Murray maintained. He felt there is an onus on a company coming into an area to make sure water doesn’t flow into farms or special areas of conservation if casing increased water flow from a mountain.

Concerns have also been raised with the affect on water quality in the environs. “There are also two farmers in the area who lost a lot of calves the year after the last flood. Initially, they thought it was a contagious disease, but they later discovered that the calves that were dying were from cows that had grazed in areas where there was turloughs.”

Winter is a very stressful period in Gort and surrounding areas, Murray

said, “During wintertime many people are on edge because they are terrified that flooding will occur again.

“Last time round, one parish outside Gort, Rinrush was cut off from the rest of the world for 10 weeks; 10 families

l CONCERNS: David Murray of the South Galway Flood Relief committee

– elderly people and people with special needs live there too – and, for that length of time, they could not get access to the road”.

“Proper analysis” at the development stage would have prevented such worries according to the activist.

“There is no doubt about it, it is getting worse and when flooding happens here in South Galway it paralyses the communities. Last time, there were 22 roads closed for 1,700 days in total.

David continued, “I live about a quarter of a mile away from the school where my children attend and after the 2009 flooding myself and my wife had to do a 40-mile round trip to get the kids to the school because of local road closures. You couldn’t get from A to B – it was horrendous.”

He pointed out that the wind farm is not the only factor relating to increased flooding and emphasised the benefits of environmental impact assessments.

Hats off to Gort lady Eileen...

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ASHION forward Gort native Eileen Lundon proved she has a good hat on her shoulders on Galway Races Ladies Day recently where she was named as this year’s Best Hat. Stylish Eileen blew away the judges with her elegant head-piece which was designed by fellow Galweigian and milliner Caithriona King from Corofin, who created a lemon and pink tilted headpiece for the big day. Eileen’s prizes include being treated to a VIP stay at The Lodge at Ashford Castle.

The judging panel included TV personality, Síle Seoige, nutritionist and author Rosanna Davison, Gillian Fitzpatrick from Her.ie and fashion blogger Ciara O’ Doherty.

Clare can become greenest county CIAN O’BROIN cianobroin@clareecho.ie

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N the 5th of July 2019, the Irish government published its long overdue Climate Action Plan. Highly detailed and ambitious, the plan sets out the targets which must be met in accordance with the EU’s desire to ultimately achieve zero carbon emissions by 2050. In theory and by the strict application of these contingencies, the government hope to reduce the carbon emissions by up to 30% in the year 2030. Let’s call this phase one.

Courageous, compact and conscientious.

But how competent? One million electric vehicles on Irish roads by the year 2030 is certainly a very assertive figure. Do we really have the infrastructure to support such an idealistic energy network? How about the phase out of coal and peat for electric-

ity generation to be replaced by microgeneration or simply put, selling back to the grid on an individual level? Let’s clean up the streets, the rivers, the ocean. A familiar sound these days. But what is taking place on a local level to ensure all of these measures are being put into place?

Here at the Clare Echo we have decided to take a closer look, translating your actions into words with a two part series on Green Clare. Positioned neatly on the West Coast, Clare has a huge potential to harness a vast amount of renewable energy.

An avaricious appetite for change could see us as the greenest county in Ireland. Putting our schools, companies, politicians and initiatives under the microscope, we hope to rigorously deconstruct Clare’s position in the face of 2019’s ‘Climate Change Emergency’.

We certainly hope you enjoy reading and perhaps learn a thing or two about the necessity of treating our planet with respect, both individually and collectively.

Pick up next week’s Clare Echo for part 2 of this series.

Meet the Clare business woman greening the hospitality sector

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AQUEL Noboa, a resident of Liscannor, Co.Clare started a nationwide campaign back in May, to Green the Hospitality Industry one-step at the time.

Raquel has worked in the Hospitality industry for the past 21 years, working in hotels around the world since the age of 17. She knows the industry well, the challenges it faces and the mind-set barriers to greening a Hospitality business.

Now in 2019, Raquel has gathered all her knowledge and easy to implement actions into Online training courses, so she can serve more businesses around the world and help Green the Hospitality Industry one step at the time.

Her Online training venture, Fifty Shades Greener, aims to help hospitality business owners that wish to start Greening their businesses. Raquel believes that a small action, taken by many people, could have a large environmental impact, and to prove her point, she created the Saucy Challenge campaign.

The challenge in question is to completely abolish individually wrapped sauces and condiments from the Irish Food Service industry. Every time a packet is open, it ends up in our landfill bins.

There are 16,000 food service businesses in Ireland, if each business served an average of 100 customers a day, using at least 1 individually wrapped sauce or condiment, we would be creating 1.6 million single use plastics just in one day.

Raquel started this campaign as a social media challenge and the response of the public has been over whelming to date. Consequently she has been interviewed live in NearFm and ClareFm, recording a podcast also about the challenge with The Green Divas, an American podcasting agency.

The IHI, IHF, RAI and Mr.Richard Bru-

ton have also been contacted to support the campaign.

“While I feel humble by the public’s response to this challenge, I want this shift in mentality to come from the Industry itself, not because customers demand it or because new policies might be in place in a few years. This change, should come from the hospitality industry itself, so we can send a clear message to our customers, our government and the rest of Europe, that we want a Greener Ireland, and in particular a Greener Tourism and Hospitality Industry.” Raquel explains.

Doolin Tourism, have now accepted the challenge, and are aiming to abolish these single use plastics from the entire village of Doolin in the next 8 weeks. Raquel has been in contact with other tourism destinations so that they can also engage with the campaign.

“The Saucy Challenge is just the start, my mission, is to Green the Hospitality industry worldwide one step at the time.

Tourism & Travel account for 10% of all the Global Carbon emissions, and at the rate Tourism is growing, there is a possibility to become an even more polluting industry and to face the wrath of the customers of the future. Society is changing, our customers of the future are the children of today, and they have been protesting against climate action, every Friday, for the past 48 weeks. We need to listen to our customers and we need to align the industry to their values, so we can be proud to work in an industry that strives to reduce their Carbon Footprint.”

For more information check www. fiftyshadesgreener.ie Or to arrange a discovery call and find out how your business can start it’s own Green Journey please email info@fiftyshadesgreener.ie

How to Recycle Properly

CIAN O’BROIN

cianobroin@clareecho.ie

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ECYCLING is tantamount to ensuring the reduction of finite raw materials as well as conserving energy and controlling air, water and land pollution. Those bins you see stacked inside the utility room no longer have to instill a sense of uncertainty about their purpose and direction. Recycling is simple. Here’s how to ensure you do your part for our environment: Firstly, ensure that items are placed loosely into your recycling bin. This is quite a common mistake. Items placed inside one another pose a serious dilemma for the machine to sort out, which allows for undesirable items like nappies and food to enter the system in turn allowing valuable recycling material to be lost.

Before placing these items into their respective recycling bins, it is essential that they are both clean and dry. If the item once contained food, they must be given a rinse followed by a competent shake

before being placed into the recycling bin.

Food and liquid are contaminants in the recycling process. In addition, wet paper cannot be recycled.

Next up is the question of glass. The household recycling bin is not where empty glassware goes. Glass should be placed in glass/bottlebanks for separate collection to recyclable waste materials. However, glass is 100% recyclable. It can be recycled repeatedly without losing any of its properties. There are limitations to what particular types of glassware can be recycled. Pyrex, plates, cups and ceramics cannot be placed in glass banks due to a different melting point to traditional glass.

Metal and plastic lids of glass items can be placed in the recycling bin.

The correct application when managing household items for recycling has huge benefits for Ireland as a nation on the global market. Countries like India and China request high standards of recyclable material and no longer look for mixed materials.

This comes down to the vigilance of the Irish public in taking note of the do’s and don’ts of recycling. Here is a list of items which cannot be recycled and their respec-

tive reasons: Coffee Cups: A disposable coffee cup is made from paper but contains a plastic lining that is difficult to remove. These items must be placed within your black bin.

Carrier Bags: Plastic bags slow down the recycling process by catching in the machines.

Aluminium Foil/Trays: These items must go into your black bin as food residue can be difficult to wipe off from these types of materials.

Soft Plastics: For example, wrappers.

We do not currently house the technology to recycle these items.

Dirty Pizza Boxes: These should be placed inside a general waste or compostable bin as they are a major contaminant in paper recycling.

Paper Towels/Napkins: These items have a limit on the number of times they can be recycled. They can be placed in a compost bin.

For more information on recycling and

Top 5 Green Initiatives in Clare 1

CLEAN IRELAND RECYCLING’S – LET’S RECYCLE:

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MAKE KILKEE PLASTIC FREE: This highly consciences initiative has worked closely with the administrative bodies of the Kilkee Coast in order to sustain a plastic free eco-environment.

Working closely with the Kilkee Chamber of Commerce, Kilkee Tidy Towns and Irish Water this collaborative effort has garnered much media attention for its efficiency. This projects baseline closely aligns itself with local business’, encouraging the replacement of single use plastics with reusable or compostable products instead. MKPF was a 2019 Best Environmental Tourism Innovation finalist!

This initiative was born in April 2018. It looks at building the foundations, whereby workshops are held in schools across the county for 3rd and 4th class students.

Branching out over a total of 67 schools and 2,700 children, this initiative’s workshops delve into the nuts and bolts of waste management are recycling through fun one-hour long workshops. Free of charge of course

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THINK BEFORE YOU FLUSH CLARE:

Ahead of the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open, this initiative took place in Lahinch. In connection with Irish water and An Taisce’s Clean Coast as well as Clare County Council, Think Before You Flush provides information about what can and cannot flush as well as the biodegradability and lifetime of certain products which are flushed into our water streams. The initiative hopes to preserve West Clare’s sacred marine environment. Their website contains a wealth of information for all those interested!

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GREEN FLEADH: This stalwart initiative allowed Clare to reduce its carbon footprint by up to 40%. The programme which is the first of its kind in the country, is an initiative of Clare Tourism and was fully funded

by Clare Local Development Company through the LEADER programme. A multitude of festivals across the county reaped the rewards. The project pays special attention to food waste, compostables, recycling and general waste.

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NATIONAL TREE WEEK:

This initiative takes into account the seminal place trees hold in both our lives and our history. Taking place between March 31st to 7th April 2019, National Tree Week allowed for communities to plant new trees in open public spaces. The project is run by Clare County Council in conjunction with The Tree Council of Ireland and Coillte This project feeds in to the unique Biodiversity of County Clare.

Keeping Lahinch Green and Clean during the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open 2019

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LARE County Council Greener Clare programme were delighted to have worked with the local community in Lahinch to help reduce the environmental impact of such a large scale event as the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open on the receiving environment. EPA Local Authority Prevention Network (LAPN) funding was secured by Clare County Council under the National Waste Prevention Programme to support this initiative Twenty recycling stations were set up

by Clare County Council in Lahinch town during the event. Visitors were able to segregate their waste to Recycling; Food Waste and Compostables and General Waste.

Business were visited by Clare County Council staff. A Helpful Hints For Visitors infographic was developed and provided to businesses to display in their premises to remind visitors to reduce their impact on the receiving environment. Tips included avoiding single use plastics; encouraging people to bring their reusable cups or bottles; encouraging people to walk and cycle and of course to keep the streets and beach litter free.

Irish Water and Clean Coast “Think Before you Flush” tips were provided by Clare County Council to seventeen businesses in the hospitality sector for display in their toilets – see attached Think Before You Flush photo with Irish Water and An Clean Coast An Tasice reps Greener Clare litter packs were provided

thirty five business to assist with keeping the streets clean. Litter packs include Litter picker; gloves and bags; Through support from the EPA National Waste Prevention Programme a team from Clean Technology Centre met with ten interested businesses. They assisted the individual business with filling out a Resource Efficiency Questionnaire (relating to waste; water and energy usage) where a report unique to their business was provided; Clare County Councils Greener Clare team encouraged people to avoid the use of single use plastic. To assist free Greener Clare reusable bottles were distributed to visitors to Lahinch by the Greener Clare team.

Clare County Council hosted with An Taisce Clean Coast a free Beach Yoga class followed by a #2minutebeachclean Casual traders set up in the town of Lahinch at the promenade were asked to:

package and supply all food in certified compostable food service packaging that conforms to ISEN13432. Pour and supply all single use drink containers in certified compostable beverage containers that conform to ISEN13432. Supply Clare County Council with advance documentary evidence that all packaging intended to be used by the trader to package the food and drinks complies with IS EN 13432. This documentary evidence must also be held at the individual stalls and be available for inspection during trading.

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Communicate good environmental practices to the public.

Source and use local seasonal produce where possible.

l Mixed dry recyclables in accordance with www.mywaste.ie l Food Waste and compostables l General Waste (non recyclable waste) If applicable to your stall, supply Clare County Council with advance documentary evidence on how it is proposed to collect, store and manage fats, oils and grease (FOG) arising from event catering and method of disposal of same.

Take steps to prevent littering from your stall during the event. At the end of each day/night and when the event finishes leave no trace of litter or waste from your stall.

Provision to be made to segregate all waste to the following waste streams:

Take steps to minimise waste, and reduce water and energy consumption.

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Eliminate single portions of condiments, such as ketchup, sugar, salt, butter, jam, etc.

Eliminate the provision of plastic straws and plastic cups.

Where single use food and drink packaging is being provided to the public use

ALL LOCAL AUTHORITIES ARE ADOPTING SIMILAR BYE-LAWS ENSURING A CONSISTENT APPROACH TO MANAGING WASTE ACROSS IRELAND. In order to comply with the new Bye-Laws: • You need to demonstrate that you are disposing of your waste in a responsible and legal manner; • You must segregate your waste correctly.

YOU MUST USE ONE OF THESE OPTIONS

OR KERBSIDE COLLECTION L-R Conor Leyden, Environmental Community Warden, Alan Logue, Hotelier and Lahinch Community Development, Dan Skajarowski from Lahinch Hostel and GreenRoom Surf School and Carmel Connaire, Green Business consultant; Karen Foley, Environmental Awareness Officer, Clare County Council.

Photo by Eamon Ward

Find out more at www.mywaste.ie

AUTHORISED WASTE FACILITY

BURREN ECOTOURISM NETWORK ACCELERATES CLIMATE CHANGE AGENDA COUNTY CLARE NOW A LEADER IN SUSTAINABLE TOURISM

Practice Climate Change and Sustainability have become hot topics over the last year. County Clare has been to the forefront of innovation and leadership in the area of sustainable tourism over the last decade. Clare County Council, for example, secured UNESCO Geopark status for the Burren & Cliffs of Moher region. The Geopark went on to lead a pilot European LIFE demonstration programme in the

field of Tourism for Conservation between 2013 and 2018. In fact, this programme won the National Geographic World Legacy Award in 2016!

No less than three Clare destinations - Loop Head, the Burren Food Trail and Scattery Island were awarded the distinction of European Destination of Excellence for various aspects of sustainable tourism.

It must be noted that it is unparalleled that three destinations in one county or region would be honoured with this accolade.

These projects and awards mean that Co. Clare is now distinguished nationally and

DID YOU KNOW IT IS ILLEGAL TO BURN WASTE OR USE UNAUTHORISED WASTE COLLECTORS? A complete list of authorised waste collectors may be found at www.nwcpo.ie or visit www.clarecoco.ie for details of Clare County Council recycling centres.

It is the responsibility of every individual to ensure their waste is managed correctly.

For any other queries or to report illegal waste activities, please contact 065 6846331 or the Anti-Litter Hotline on 1800 606 706 or email enviroff@clarecoco.ie

LET’S KEEp CLARE CLEAN.

internationally as a leader in sustainable tourism practice.

THE BURREN ECOTOURISM NETWORK AS A MODEL FOR OTHERS

The Burren Ecotourism Network is one group that has been to the fore of this development. Since its inception in 2011, the Burren Ecotourism Network has been a leading light in conservation. It has a tangible commitment to a code of sustainable tourism practices. The model has been copied and upheld throughout Ireland as an example for collaboration and destination development.

The Burren Eco Tourism Network is comprised of up to 60 businesses right around North Clare.

THE BURREN ECOTOURISM NETWORK MAKES A STEP CHANGE AND APPOINTS NEW BOARD AND CEO

Now Burren Ecotourism Network is once again leading the charge in embracing tourism and tackling climate change, facing the challenges head on and coming up with innovative solutions. To enable it to do this, it has taken the bold step of appointing a CEO, the first network of its kind to do so. It has also incorporated as a company and set up a board of directors. “We are the first independent tourism network in Ireland to make this step-change” commented Brid Fahy, chair of the Burren Ecotourism Network. “We are excited about it as it will enable us to roll out ambitious plans for the further enhancement of our destination and the development of high impact environmental programmes.

Our next phase will prioritize expanding the membership base and embedding our sustainable tourism standards further in the destination.”

WHAT’S NEXT FOR BURREN ECOTOURISM NETWORK?

Jarlath O’Dwyer, the newly appointed CEO of the Burren Ecotourism Network commented ‘I am delighted to be part of the next phase of this story. There is a new Board of Directors in place. Many members of the Board and the Network are themselves leading lights

in tourism terms, not only in Clare but around the country. I see the members of the Burren Ecotourism Network as ambassadors for County Clare, and role models for other destinations.”

O’Dwyer continued “What the new structure enables is expansion of network membership, greater adoption of sustainable tourism practices and further innovation in visitor experiences. It is envisaged that visitors will continue to enjoy world class experiences here in the Burren & Cliffs of Moher Geopark, that are enhanced by the knowledge that they too are travelling in an area where green, responsible tourism is the policy of the local community.”

While climate change is a very much a live topic right now, the Burren Ecotourism Network has been dedicated to this issue since they were first established, when the Burren & Cliffs of Moher Geopark Office facilitated them coming together to develop a model for sustainable tourism in the Burren region.

What is truly unique is that all businesses in the network have adopted the Geopark Code of Practice for Sustainable Tourism. “They’ve really walked the talk and do so much more than just pay lip service to sustainable principles. I am amazed by the commitment of time and resources that the businesses make to honouring the Geopark Code of Practice for Sustainable Tourism. I’m equally astounded by the demonstrated benefit in terms of marketing, networking and landscape conservation” O’Dwyer observes.

Brid Fahy adds “As businesses, we’ve found that the Code is a comprehensive business management tool that enables us not only to reduce waste, save energy and water but at the same time to enhance the visitor experience and benefit from collaboration between businesses and communities in the area.”

ABOUT THE CEO AND THE BOARD

Jarlath O’Dwyer of The Tourism Space is a native of Kilshanny, a graduate from the University of Limerick and has had a long career in Hospitality, FMCG, Sales & Marketing. The Board of the Burren Eco Tourism Network includes Birgitta Hedin Curtin - Burren Smokehouse, Lisdoonvarna, Victor McSweeney - Hazelwood Lodge, Ballyvaughan, George - Hylands Burren Hotel, Ballyvaughan, Simon Haden - Gregans Castle Hotel, Ballyvaughan, Joan Hamilton - Garrihy’s Doolin2Aran Ferries, Doolin, Karen Courtney - Stonecutters Kitchen, Doolin, Katherine Webster - Kittiwake Solutions, Lahinch, Brid Fahy - Café Linnalla Ice-Cream, New Quay and Orla Vaughan - Vaughan’s Guest House Kilfenora.

‘We could be the green beacon’ CIAN O’BROIN cianobroin@clareecho.ie

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N exemplary environmentalist, the Green Party’s Roisin Garvey’s politics exudes an unrivalled sense of urgency where climate change is concerned.

Recently elected in May 2019, Garvey’s appointment to the council proves vital in a time in our history that the whole world has come to understand as a state of ‘Climate Change Emergency.’

Roisin’s environmental resume is decorated in community engagement initiatives and schemes, but she traces the origins of her interest in politics and climate change to her time spent abroad. “30 years ago, I went to Germany as a fifteen-year-old. I saw that they had no litter, they had cycle lanes, pedestrian crossings and they had five bins. I came back to Ireland and I saw how filthy and misappropriated our space was.” A subsequent nosedive into third level education accommodated these environmental concerns held by Roisin, where she became involved in the literary and debating society before qualifying as a teacher of CSPE. In 2002, she ran Ecotopia, a workshop-oriented festival dealing with several climate change issues which have only been brought to light in recent years.

Over eleven years in environmental education have led Roisin to strong conclusions concerning climate change in Ireland, “We’ve known these issues for so long. We don’t need to reinvent anything. Just go to other countries like Denmark, Holland or Sweden. They have clean water; they have clean streets and they don’t have major plastic issues. What are we waiting for? Are we waiting for over 7 million climate refugees, which they are promising by 2030?”

“It doesn’t matter about India and China, if we do it right in the west they will follow.

Ireland can be such a beacon; we could be the green beacon for the whole world.

That’s what is needed now. Not just hope, but actual solutions.”

Roisin is adamant about a collective conscience within the political framework in Ireland, stemming from a wide range of Party’s and not just the Greens. Consistent neglect of climate change issues from other parties was the driving force behind her own election, “It’s why I felt like I had no choice but to run. It wasn’t like I wanted to get elected it was more like that it just had to be done. We had to have a green voice.” Roisin feels that Fianna Fail and Fianna Gael don’t need to figure anything out, just simply listen to the Greens. “There is no point in having big exclamations about climate emergency if it doesn’t follow up immediately with a clear action and a timeline.

Whether that’s from a local council chamber or on a national level.”

Failure to incorporate strategies like micro-generation, causes Roisin to question the powers that govern us. Restructuring land use by allowing farmers to use their surplus space to sell energy back to the grid could solve a lot of the governments problems and save money too. “The government aren’t supporting initiatives like getting farmers to grow biofuel, access their land for greenways or giving them money for solar power. I feel the obvious thing to do is to think global and act local.

The state are letting us down, so it’s up to us to do what we can on a local level. It’s going to be about resilience in the future.”

It all boils down to the perseverance of local communities. In Roisin’s eyes, climate change action is not some effervescent grandiose project but something that starts within small groups and at a local level. Our relationship with food is no exception. Supporting local growers reduces plastic packaging and allows for a sustainable community to flourish. “In Ireland we eat only 50% of all our food. We don’t value food enough.

We spend less per capita on food than any country in Europe. Organic food is four or five times more nutritious for you. I think the farmers market is where people have to go back to. We really need to redevelop our relationship with food. We are living the American way of life, buying tonnes of processed food. I would rather see people getting their protein from local meat and paying a farmer well, rather than buying

Quinoa from South America.”

On whether these proposed changes outlined in the Climate Action Plan will really take effect, Roisin feels that people have to be incentivised to cross over to the renewable side. Roisin emphasises the importance of financial support, such as low interest green loans which would allow customers to be in control of their own spending.

“Having been a Green party member for a number of years, I have seen them come up with amazing proposals. Which I know are right because they have worked in other countries and they just get shot down. It’s time for action now, less talk.

At local council meetings, I am not the only one bringing up climate i s s u e s , which is great. Imitation is the highest form of flattery.

Clare could be the greenest county in Ireland.”

Clare lighting with LED

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HE new climate action plan asks us to restructure our approach to energy use. This prolonged mismanagement of energy is a practice which must be weeded out in order to maintain a sustainable future. The crux of the issue falls at the feet of local authorities and their ability to deliver on respective promises. Councillor Cathal Crowe has felt this dismay on several occasions, as his push for energy efficient and eco-friendly public lighting throughout County Clare has been met with little sympathy.

Statistically speaking, LED lights vastly outshine their frighteningly less competent antecedents. Out of 489,000 public lights in Ireland, only 9% are LED. Traditional streetlights, whether fluorescent or incandescent only convert 5% of their energy into light. The remainder is squandered as heat. On the contrary, LED lights convert 95% of their energy into light. Astonishingly, LED lighting has a lifetime of 100,000 hours or twenty years, which significantly reduces maintenance costs.

With regards to the environment, LED lights contain no toxic elements. Making them extremely environmentally friendly as opposed to fluorescent lights which emit noxious chemicals like Mercury. These chemicals are harmful in that they must be disposed of properly when transported to landfill. On the inadequacy of the council to properly address this issue in Clare, Cathal admits that “it’s unheard of that a council would have no budget whatsoever for new lighting.”

Fighting tirelessly for a long overdue upgrade to eco-friendly and energy efficient LED lighting, Councillor Crowe demands to see a county wide rollout. In response to the motion the council have recently affirmed that “at present 2,563 LED bulb replacements have already taken place in County Clare and this equates to 18.2% of overall lighting stock.”

“Clare County Council have a contract with Airtricity Solutions. They are contracted by the council to replace all outages and new bulb fit-outs. At the moment they are just replacing bulbs that go. There are huge savings that are going to be made from the switchover. It’s alarming that we have no budget whatsoever for any new streetlights. Our budget for new streetlights is nil. Most villages in Clare need one or two lights. It seems to be a county wide issue at this stage.”

Energy savings are incremental in this motion, with the council admitting that the switchover to LED lights will save energy by up to 60%, a substantial figure. The earth’s climate is changing rapidly and our efforts to reconfigure our attitudes towards the environment must mirror the same tempo. The transitional period must resemble a relentless sprint as opposed to an amicable walk in the park.

In response to Councillor Crowe’s displeasure, the Council acknowledged that “It was announced in late 2018 that the Road Management Office have been successful in securing 17.5 million in funding for the LA Public Lighting Energy Efficiency Project nationally. This will form part of

the funding necessary for the delivery of the project. Clare has confirmed its participation. The current programme indicates that the project will commence in 2020.”

The question begs, is the timeline set out by the council lacking in urgency? How long until County Clare is up to date with the most basic form of eco-friendly lighting?

The responsible supervision of this project is vital to both Ireland and Clare’s ability to take positive action in terms of rethinking energy use. Although miniscule when placed beside a wider range of climatic issues, eco-friendly LED lighting can lead the way into more serious changes, a gateway one could say.

Plastic free flash mob hits Ennis PÁRAIC McMAHON paraic@clareecho.ie

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NNIS witnessed it’s first plastic-free flash mob this week as operation de-plastification hit the aisles of the town’s shopping centre on Tuesday morn-

ing.

Dressed in white, the quartet armed with wicker baskets, jute bags, tupperware, glass jars, glass bottles and cookie tins aimed to encourage plastic-free shopping in an effort to help the environment.

Cornelia Wahli explained to The Clare Echo, “The idea behind plastic

free shopping is that if an item needs a container then you bring that container with you. If you do not have the container, then that is bad luck and the item cannot be taken out of the shop.

In other words, no bottle for the milk means no milk is being bought because the shop-supplied milk container more than likely contains plastic unless the milk is sold in a glass bottle”.

“It is correct that the packaging in the shops, the packaging in transit, the packaging at the food suppliers and the packaging in the packaging factories are all already in existence. For the food in the shops, the food in transit and the food already packaged at the farms and factories, for all that food it is already too late. However, we, that is you and I, we are aiming to keep the

food that is currently not yet packaged out of plastic. While it is too late for the batches in the shops, in transit, and awaiting transportation, we want the batch that is next in line to be packaged to be saved from packaging. We, that is you and I, want to send a message to the shop owners, the suppliers, the growers and the factories, that enough is enough. We, that is you and I, no longer want to be part of the conversation of what to do with packaging,” she added.

Operation de-plastification plan to hold two more flash mobs this month, both of which will take place at the Metal Bike on Francis St in Ennis on August 17th and 21st.

1 million Irish E-cars by 2030 CIAN O’BROIN cianobroin@clareecho.ie

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HE newly proposed Climate Action Plan hopes to have one million electric vehicles on the road in Ireland by the year 2030. Such an optimistic figure begs the question of realism. Undoubtedly, a cognitive shift must take place within the public sphere to meet such demands.

Speaking to an individual staying above the curve, John Casey of the Electric Vehicle Owners Clare talks getting started, range anxiety, financial incentives and the necessity of leading by example…

The Clare Electric Vehicle Owners group was espoused by John i n order to connect with other green minded individuals in the county. “I set it up on the basis that we could have opinions on local issues. It’s information for peop l e .

Local chargers and things of interest in terms of what we are doing.

There is a strong community out there.” An information evening organised by the Green Party on electric vehicles sparked interest in the group as well as a Nissan Leaf information night at Dulick Motors.

Collaboration & co-operation key to bringing world-class Greenway to Clare PÁRAIC McMAHON paraic@clareecho.ie

Elected representative and officials in the West Clare Municipal District will hold a presentation in September to gain a better understanding of the work required in bringing a world class Greenway to the county.

North Clare councillors, Roisin Garvey, Shane Talty, Joe Killeen and Joe Garrihy proposed at a recent meeting of the West

On making the switch over to electric vehicles, John feels that their evolution has come a long way in recent years. “I was driving some of the first ones that came out. On the older models, the range was very poor. There were also reliability issues too. What people don’t realise now is that there is significantly less servicing. There are very few things that can go wrong. In addition, battery size has increased enormously so that it’s within most people’s comfortable range of 200-300 kilometres.”

The current bestsellers in the E.V market today are the Hyundai Kona, Nissan Leaf, Renault Zoe, Model Three Tesla and the Volkswagen E-Golf. Within the county boundaries, Dulick are proprietors of the affordable Nissan Leaf and Cleary’s have made the new Kia E-Soul available to customers.

Councillor Mary Howard’s significant contribution in establishing a network of charging stations throughout Ennis has done wonders for local electric vehicle owners. In 2019, Mary asserts that “charging points were provided at Tim Smyth Park (Fair Green), John O’Sullivan Park (Lee’s Rd), Clare County Council HQ and at Active E n nis Leisure Centre.” A keen advocate of electric vehicles, Councillor Howard acknowledges that, “the amount of people that have searched for electric vehicles on Done Deal has gone up by 250% in comparison to last year.” Economically, electric

Clare MD that a presentation be organised by both the Director of Physical and Rural Development in Clare County Council on Greenways. They asked that this would include contributions from “an expert on best practice for the infrastructure used”, “an engineer from one of the engineering companies that have successfully liaised with landowners in developing greenways” and Waterford farmer, Tom Fennell who was initially opposed to greenways but is now an advocate.

“This presentation is being proposed to begin the process of getting the best Greenway in Ireland for North and West Clare at a time where the West Clare Municipal District faces job losses due to Moneypoint’s proposed closure and the need for the regeneration of struggling towns like Miltown Malbay and Corofin,” the quartet stated.

Senior engineer, Sean Lenihan said, “The delivery of a world class Greenway is a key priority for the Council” and is acknowledged in the County Development Plan 2017-2023. “Funding will be sought from all suitable sources to advance the design

vehicles owners will accrue significant savings on transport costs. “The reality is that E-Car’s have zero exhaust emissions. The motor tax is 120 euros. It has been found there is a 74% reduction cost in comparison to a diesel vehicle. A journey of 200 kilometres costs approximately 2.54 euros, where as a petrol journey would run you 21.60 euros.”

Additional incentives come in the form of government subsidies. A grant of 600 euros is available for the installation of home charging units. A VRT Rebate of up to 5,000 euros is available to those interested in purchasing an electric vehicle.

These financial incentives were put in place t o encourage individuals.

Shedding some light on the upkeep of electric vehicle, John Casey remarks “A lot of people don’t know that the chargers are free of charge. The tolls are half price for electric v e hicles and parking in town is free of charge in Abbey Street and Glor car park if you are working in Ennis.” A government scrappage scheme has also been put in place for those that fear their current petrol or diesel vehicle will hold little financial value in years to come.

The increase of electric vehicles on the road in County Clare is not without its drawbacks, however. An inconsistent network of charging stations county-wide has caused distress amongst owners who ac-

cording to John Casey, has led to a great deal of ‘range anxiety’. “The ESB has put in chargers in Kilrush and there have been obsolescence issues. They’ve essentially abandoned Kilrush. A 90-kilometre return journey to Kilrush could end up in range anxiety for owners of the old Nissan Leaf.

The same thing has happened now in Lisdoonvarna and Newmarket on Fergus. The ESB really have no interest in putting in the flow chargers, unfortunately. We need the council to do something like they did in Ennis town. We need something like that to happen for the extremities of the county.”

Finally, John felt that the only way to truly incentivise people to swap over to electric vehicles lay in the example of national leadership. “There needs to be more education. They need to practice what they preach. Government vehicles need t o make the switch over.

The traffic wardens are supp o s - edly getting electric vehicles. All that needs to

and delivery of the overall proposal totalling approximately 85km. It is hoped that we may be able to deliver a smaller (23km) section between Kilrush and Kilkee as a pilot phase”.

He said that any such development requires co-operation and collaboration with affected landowners and local interest groups. “Some preliminary engagement has taken place already and at the appropriate time, we will consult widely with landowners and their representative groupings”.

Lenihan confirmed the Council would facilitate the requested presentation.

Cllr Garvey said Waterford has been boosted by one million annual bednights as a result of the Greenway. “This is going to happen, it should have happened 10 years ago, the Council has used different approaches. This is the time that we get this Greenway off the ground, it is paramount that we get the farmer from Waterford to come up to us and talk to the farmers”. Cllr Cillian Murphy suggested the presentations be open to the entire community but Garvey replied, “Step one is to get the Council

on board”.

Independent councillor, Ian Lynch commented. “We’re all convinced this needs to happen. Anytime this appears in the paper there’s hysteria. The reason nothing has gone out is there is no plan. There is great opposition to it because of the fear to it, there is a fierce sense of frustration to it.

This is an economically deprived area that needs money pumped into it. I would be a bit cautious about getting the message out too soon, there is not an issue with the farmers, there are concerns”.

Director of Service, Leonard Cleary confirmed a special briefing would be organised prior to the West Clare MD’s September meeting.

happen. They need to encourage the semi-state companies and the council to start using them. If people see council vehicles being electric or hop into electric vehicles, only then will it go some of the way. Even our own local TD’s need to lead by example. I know that none of the four TD’s drive electric even though they try to encourage it. They need to lead by example.”

3 GREEN CHOICES OF CARS NISSAN LEAF

THE all new 40kw 100 per cent Electric Nissan Leaf has charged ahead in the sales charts this July. 306 new Nissan Leaf’s were registered during the month which heretofore would have been close to the total number of Electric vehicles sold in a full year.

The July sales result brings the total number of Nissan Leaf driving on Irish roads to date to over 2,700 units cementing Nissan’s dominance and leadership in the fast emerging electric vehicle market.

Nissan said that the unprecedented demand for the new Leaf is being driven by the fact that its range on a single charge has increased by 50 per cent to 378 kilometres (NEDC) and by a growing awareness amongst Irish householders that switching to a new Nissan Leaf can help them to save significantly on the cost of running their car.

Government incentives including the SEAI purchase grant of €5,000, the additional €7,000 SEAI grant for taxi drivers, the introduction of 0 per cent BIK on company vehicles, half price tolls and the environmental benefits of switching to a 100 per cent electric car are also playing a big role in influencing consumers, according to Nissan.

“This result for July is a real benchmark and provides huge encouragement for the future of Electric Vehicles in Ireland” said James McCarthy, CEO, Nissan Ireland. “We have been advocates for electric driving over the last 8 years and it’s fantastic to see people starting to make the switch in numbers now.”

“Consumers are conscientiously weighing up whether the car can save them money. Our Leaf customers have shown us that they are at least €1,350 a year better off for driving the 100 per cent electric Nissan Leaf,” said Mr. McCarthy “and no other drivetrain – petrol, diesel or hybrid, can come close to delivering that level of running cost savings.

The all new Nissan Leaf offers a significant update over the previous model with a higher battery capacity, dynamic new styling and advanced technologies including ProPILOT and the Nissan e-Pedal function, which allows drivers to start from a standstill, accelerate and brake and even bring the car to a controlled stop by using the throttle pedal.

HYUNDAI KONA

The Hyundai Kona Electric has exceeded customer demand across Europe, thanks to its powerful electric drivetrain, long driving range and its stylish SUV looks. With demand for the original Kona Electric having surpassed all expectations, Hyundai is now already announcing the enhanced specification of the new model year Kona Electric. With newly offered features like an 11-kW three-phase on-board AC charger cable, Kona Electric increases its appeal to environmentally conscious drivers seeking no-compromise future mobility. Deliveries of the upgraded Kona Electric will begin in European markets from the end of 2019.

After its first full year of sales, Kona

has captured new customer groups and significantly contributed to Hyundai’s strong position in the trending segment of compact SUVs. The impressive worldwide demand for the popular Kona Electric version in particular has exceeded even Hyundai’s expectations. Hyundai is responding to this pent-up demand by announcing the latest enhancements planned for the emission-free SUV. Another useful feature for the latest Kona Electric is Blue Link® telematics: Hyundai’s Connected Car service in select markets* enables drivers to start their Kona Electric using the Blue Link smartphone app, as well as activate the climate control before setting off on a trip to heat or cool the interior of the car on cold or hot days. It is also possible to unlock the car doors remotely by entering the Blue Link User PIN. In addition, Blue Link serves as a convenient diagnostic tool, notifying customers of any service that requires attention or where the driver last parked the car. Standard eCall service – which in addition to the manual eCall button automatically contacts emergency services in the case of a more serious road incident resulting in the airbag sensors being triggered – is also there to assist passengers.

TOYOTA COROLLA

It’s funny to think that, twenty years ago, when Toyota first started making hybrid cars, most other car makers thought it was a colossal waste of time and investment cash, and promptly got on with shovelling cash into diesel power. Today, as Toyota brings the Corolla name back to its five-door family hatch (the Auris is no more) it seems like the most prescient thing ever to have sunk all that investment money into hybrids. Indeed, so big is Toyota’s lead in hybrid power, that most car makers aren’t even bothering to compete, and instead are holding on for the holy grail of battery electric power.

Which is not to say that Toyota isn’t investing in electric — it is, but is apparently waiting until faster-charging solid-state batteries mature into useable technology before it fully commits — but it has more or less perfected is hybrid engine building expertise, to the point where, now, there are no more diesel-engined Toyota passenger cars (bar the vast Land Cruiser, which is strictly speaking a commercial vehicle).

The new Corolla range — the successor to the most successful car badge of all time — is almost entirely hybrid powered now.

While it’s basically the same engine as before, with the same electric motor and the same stack of nickel batteries under the back seats, Toyota has tweaked its software and operating systems a little.

That means that the electric motor takes more of the strain, more of the time. In fact, on a typical urban commute, Toyota says that you should spend around 60 per cent of your journey running on just the battery and electric motor. That’s good for around-town fuel economy, but Toyota has worked too on making longhaul motorway miles more economical, and it’s worked.

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MOTORING

MOTORING EXPERT NEIL BRISCOE GIVES HIS VIEWS

CITROEN FINALLY CROSSES OVER INTO SUV-LAND CITROEN AIMS TO MAKE A COMFIER, MORE PRACTICAL FAMILY CROSSOVER

C

CITROEN C5 AIRCROSS

ITROEN has made off-roaders before, it’s just that you probably don’t remember them. Cast your mind back a decade or thereabouts, and there was the C-Crosser. Remember that? Of course you don’t, but it was actually a decent car. Citroen (and sister brand Peugeot) cut a few corners by buying in a chassis and body from Mitsubishi, adding their own engines and badges, and off to the races they went. It was actually an OK car — surprisingly competent on rocky, muddy terrain — but never sold especially well.

Then there was the original Mehari — less of a true SUV, more of a Mini Moke rival, and using the running gear of a 2CV. It has kind of Jeep-ish overtones, and they’re rugged in the sense that they have that long-travel, field-friendly suspension from the 2CV and that car’s unburstable two-cylinder aircooled engine, but a proper off-roader? Not really.

The 2CV Safari, though, that was a proper off-roader, It actually had two engines, one for the front wheel and one for the rears, driving through a common gearbox, and could seriously tackle rough roads, sand dunes, and much.

Now we have the C5 Aircross, and while the delightful madness of the 2CV Safari, the quirky appeal of the Mehari, and the sheer blandness of the C-Crosser are all absent, Citroen is hoping that it can inject sufficient character and sense of difference into the C5 that it will stand apart from the

hordes of SUV rivals.

Underneath, the C5 Aircross is basically predictable. It uses the same EMP2 platform as does its brothers-in-arms the Peugeot 3008, the Opel Grandland X, and the DS 7 Crossback. It uses the same engines too, so you get a choice of 1.2-litre turbo three-cylinder petrol, or as tested here, a 1.5-litre BlueHDI diesel with up to 130hp.

Our test car was a top-spec ‘Flair’ model which came not only with an optional eight-speed automatic gearbox, but also such equipment as a ‘Citroen Connected Cam’ mounted in the windscreen (which records for insurance and evidence purposes, but which can also take snapshots to share on social media), a safety pack that includes lane keeping steering, emergency automated braking, blind spot detection, active cruise control, and a reversing camera, a panoramic roof, wireless phone charging, part-leather upholstery, an eight-inch touchscreen with sat-nav, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, and 19-inch alloy wheels.

There’s also Citroen’s Advanced Comfort Pack, and this is where it really starts to diverge from both its Peugeot and Opel cousins, and from the family crossover norm. While this (sadly) isn’t a return to the glory days of Citroen’s advanced ‘hydragas’ suspension, there is some cleverness here. Citroen has replaced the usual hards rubber ‘bump stops’ with Progressive Hydraulic Cushions. So instead of thumping into a hard stop when under high compression, the C5’s springs and dampers instead slide into a feather bed of hydraulic softness, which then also eases the reaction movement, the de-compression of the suspension as it recovers from the bump. It’s clever stuff, and against the

usual run of the car industry’s obsession with sportiness, it’s all in the name of comfort.

In too come new seats, which use a mix of different density foams for a sofa-like sense of comfort. They’re very, very soft and quite unlike the seats you’d find in pretty much any other car, which is both good and bad. Good because they are really lovely to sink into. Bad? Well, bad for me personally, at any rate, as I found that on really long journeys I could have done with firmer support and they triggered a nagging ache in my left leg and lower back. Full Disclosure: I have trouble with my back and with my left leg anyway, so it might just be me, and you may well find them perfectly supportive. Try before you buy, I guess.

The seats in the back are, actually, rather more impressive as there are three individual seats, all of which tilt, slide, and fold, which will be a major boon to parents everywhere. Fitting in three child safety seats is a doddle (it’s torture in most cars) and there’s plenty of space and light, too. Indeed, the C5 feels more like a car designed and built from the inside out, rather than the more conventional other way around.

How does it drive, though? Well, rather charmingly it does drive rather like those classic Citroens of the seventies and eighties. The suspension is among the softest of any car we’ve driven lately, so it’s remarkably good at loafing around town, where it soaks up the sort of ruts and lousy surfaces that pepper our streets. It’s brilliant too at long motorway cruises, where the combo of soft springs, those seats, and excellent noise suppression (aside from the diesel’s tendency to rattle from a cold start) make

FACTS & FIGURES

Model tested: Citroen C5 Aircross 1.5 BlueHDI EAT8 Flair Pricing: €37,995 as tested; C5 Aircross starts at €26,495 Engine: 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel Transmission: eight-speed automatic, front-wheel drive Body style: Family crossover CO2 emissions: 141g/km* (Band A3 €190 per annum) Combined economy: 53.3mpg (5.3 litres/100km) Top speed: 188km/h 0-100km/h: 10.0 seconds Power: 130hp at 3,750rpm Torque: 300Nm at 1,500rpm Boot space: 720-1,630 litres Safety: Euro NCAP rating for Citroen C5 Aircross: Four stars: 87 per cent adult; 86 per cent child; 58 per cent pedestrian; 75 per cent safety assist *On WLTP cycle, taxed according to NEDC2 emissions

long journeys relaxing. The only fly in the French ointment is that it’s less good on country roads, where the light steering and soft suspension mean that it can be a bit of a chore.

Further goodness is to be found inside, where there is a handsome layout for the dashboard, digital instruments, a big, bright touchscreen (which is slightly fiddly to use) and generally very good quality levels. The boot is also massive, and with a little juggling of the rear seats you can squeeze in 720-litres of whatever it is you need to carry.

Citroen’s mission has been, generally, a success then. True, unlike the 2CV Safari and the Mehari, the C5 Aircross probably won’t be troubling the editors of Beloved Cherished Classic Car Magazine 20 years from now, but then that’s not its task.

Instead, it’s bringing some welcome difference and some welcome comfort and some welcome practicality to the family crossover segment.

MOTORING

MOTORING EXPERT NEIL BRISCOE GIVES HIS VIEWS

KIA REVEALS XCEED CROSSOVER HATCHBACK

K

CEED-BASED CROSSOVER WILL RIVAL THE FOCUS ACTIVE

IA Motors has today released the first image of the new Kia XCeed urban crossover, due to be revealed later in June 2019. Stylish, expressive and modern in design, the new crossover utility vehicle (CUV) represents a sporty alternative to traditional larger SUVs. The swept-back, coupé-like appearance of the new Kia XCeed is a product of the brand’s European design centre in Frankfurt, Germany, designed under the direction of Gregory Guillaume, Vice President of Design for Kia Motors Europe. The combination of its elevated ride height and lower hip point give the car a sportier driving position than a traditional SUV. Its raised driving position offers a clearer view of the road ahead than a conventional family hatchback.

More emotional and dynamic in format and design than its taller rivals, the new Kia XCeed will nevertheless offer comparable levels of interior space and luggage capacity to Europe’s best-selling SUVs. Emilio Herrera, Chief Operating Officer at Kia Motors Europe, comments: “The sporty design and demeanour of the new Kia XCeed CUV makes it more innately desirable than many taller, larger SUVs. Yet it offers this without compromising on versatility, with its intelligent packaging achieving the cabin and storage space of an SUV in a sportier body and more compact footprint.”

The new Kia XCeed will be revealed in full on the 26th of June and will go on sale in Ireland in October. driving through a common gearbox, and could seriously tackle rough roads, sand dunes, and much.

Now we have the C5 Aircross, and while the delightful madness of the 2CV Safari, the quirky appeal of the Mehari, and the sheer blandness of the C-Crosser are all absent, Citroen is hoping that it can inject sufficient character and sense of difference into the C5 that it will stand apart from the hordes of SUV rivals.

Underneath, the C5 Aircross is basically predictable. It uses the same EMP2 platform as does its brothers-in-arms the Peugeot 3008, the Opel Grandland X, and the DS 7 Crossback. It uses the same engines too, so you get a choice of 1.2-litre turbo three-cylinder petrol, or as tested here, a 1.5-litre BlueHDI diesel with up to 130hp.

Our test car was a top-spec ‘Flair’ model which came not only with an optional eight-speed automatic gearbox, but also such equipment as a ‘Citroen Connected Cam’ mounted in the windscreen (which records for insurance and evidence purposes, but which can also take snapshots to share on social media), a safety pack that includes lane keeping steering, emergency automated braking, blind spot detection, active cruise control, and a reversing camera, a panoramic roof, wireless phone charging, part-leather upholstery, an eight-inch touchscreen with sat-nav, Apple

CarPlay, and Android Auto, and 19-inch alloy wheels.

There’s also Citroen’s Advanced Comfort Pack, and this is where it really starts to diverge from both its Peugeot and Opel cousins, and from the family crossover norm. While this (sadly) isn’t a return to the glory days of Citroen’s advanced ‘hydragas’ suspension, there is some cleverness here. Citroen has replaced the usual hards rubber ‘bump stops’ with Progressive Hydraulic Cushions. So instead of thumping into a hard stop when under high compression, the C5’s springs and dampers instead slide into a feather bed of hydraulic softness, which then also eases the reaction movement, the de-compression of the suspension as it recovers from the bump. It’s clever stuff, and against the usual run of the car industry’s obsession with sportiness, it’s all in the name of comfort.

In too come new seats, which use a mix of different density foams for a sofa-like sense of comfort. They’re very, very soft and quite unlike the seats you’d find in pretty much any other car, which is both good and bad. Good because they are really lovely to sink into. Bad? Well, bad for me personally, at any rate, as I found that on really long journeys I could have done with firmer support and they triggered a nagging ache in my left leg and lower back. Full Disclosure: I have trouble with my back and with my left leg anyway, so it might just be me, and you may well find them perfectly supportive. Try before you buy, I guess.

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36 COMMUNITY

Community WEST / NORTH CLARE KILKEE BAY SWIM Saturday 10th August 2019 This annual charity event has been held in Kilkee over the past 32 years (conditions permitting). In 2018 it attracted over 140 swimmers for the Big Bay swim with participants aged 15 years and over. The overall winner last year was Chris Bryan Ryan who won the Richard Harris Memorial Trophy which was donated by the late actor who had associations with Kilkee in the 1960’s.

This year’s Big Bay Swim is planned for Saturday 10th August from the traditional starting point at Byrne’ Cove.

The Big Bay Swim will take place at 3.00 p.m. starting from Byrne’s Cove at the East End, Kilkee. The swim will be a 1200 – 1500 metre event finishing at Newfoundout, West End, Kilkee– Entry Fee : €25. Registration in person on the morning of Saturday 10th August at the Dive Centre, East End, Kilkee from 11.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m.

There will also be a Small Bay Swim for swimmers aged 14 years and under. This event will be held at 2.00 p.m. and will take place from the Bay at Sandycove and proceed to the Pier at the East End. Registration for this event will also take place in person on the morning of Saturday 10th August from 11.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. at the Dive Centre at the East End, Kilkee. – Entry Fee: €5.

Adding to the occasion of the Bay Swims will be the presence of Boherbuoy Brass & Reed Band who will be performing at the Bandstand on the Strand Line during the afternoon.

Kilkee Bay Swims have been held since their inception as charity events to assist local facilities and services in the community. All monies from the Swims this year will assist Kilkee Playground and Astroturf facility.

Contact us on facebook: kilkeebayswim

ENNIS BANNER NEWS REVISITED At 11:30am on August 22nd in Ennis Library there will be a lecture and booklet launch by historian Steve Dolan titled ‘Banner News’ focusing on eighteenth century Co Clare newspaper articles. The entire proceeds will go to Cahercalla Hospice and this Heritage Week Steve is raising €10,000 for charities in the region.

COUNTYWIDE GOVT FUNDING FOR CLARE YOUTH SERVICE The Clare Youth Service is set to benefit from €36,680 in Government funding, Clare Fine Gael TD Joe Carey has confirmed.

“The money, which was approved for staff-led youth projects and services, will help young people to develop skills, gain new experiences and build self-confidence,” he said.

“The Clare Youth Service provides exceptional levels of engagement and support and I am confident these grants will assist in improving the quality of the services to the benefit of young people throughout the county.

“This year alone, we are investing a total of €63.6 million in current and capital funding in clubs, services and supports for young people,” Deputy Carey added.

KINVARA EXHIBITION AT THE QUAY, KINVARA Ryan Lavin will be in showing his newest oil on canvas work at Siar in Kinvara on 8 August.

“These are the paintings I’ve done over the last year. Some are traditional hookers, some are atmospheric-abstract bog-body studies, some are lads stacking pints on top of each other. One is the poster art for this year’s Cruinniú na mBád festival, the fortieth anniversary which was a great honour to paint. Another is of a tree down in a field in Stradbally, the same field meself and Ciunas stooked square bales of hay in for half a week.

“I’m delighted to be working with Mike and Ciara at Siar again- we had a fantastic show last year, with a great turnout. I hope ye enjoy this year’s harvest.” Lavin added.

THURSDAY, AUG 8 2019

CONTACT NEWSDESK

065 671 9021 news@clareecho.ie

SOUTH CLARE

Pat Quinlan, Milford Care Centre CEO and Joe Murphy, Chair of the board of Milford Care Centre, with Mickey Mouse, Jacko the Clown and local children at the launch of the Milford Hospice Harvest Fair 2019

Photo by Keith Wiseman

MILFORD CARE CENTRE HERALDS ARRIVAL OF AUTUMN WITH ITS ANNUAL HARVEST FAIR Milford Care Centre’s Annual Harvest Fair is being held on a most appropriate day this year, Sunday, September 1, the first day of autumn and the middle of the harvesting season. The Fair, which is being held in the University of Limerick Campus in Limerick, opens at 11am.

Always a well-supported and organised event, where the range of goods donated by the community is quite amazing, this long-standing event, heading into its 34th year, owes its success and longevity to the contribution of the volunteers that work tirelessly to run this day-long Fair and indeed to the generous support it receives from communities across Clare, Limerick and North Tipperary.

Launching the Harvest Fair in Milford, the chairperson of the Harvest Fair Committee and Chairperson of the board of Milford Care Centre, Joe Murphy, was fulsome in his praise for the dedication of the team that work behind the scenes to deliver an event that is unique in nature and renowned for the array of goods for sale each year and for being such a fun day out for everybody.

“The Milford Harvest Fair, which is a free of charge event, is so traditional in nature; that’s what makes it the success it has become. It’s a day out for families, where the adults can ponder and select their bargain purchases and the children can be equally entertained scanning the toys on offer and partaking in the great entertainment on site throughout the day.

“It’s an event for everyone, young and old; for those who have an association with Milford Care Centre and for those who don’t but simply want to support our fundraising efforts and give back to their community. The range of stalls this year will include books, toys and a host of miscellaneous goods, including handbags and scarves for the ladies; this was such a success last year that we just had to include it again this year. It’s simply a fun day out for the family and all are welcome.”

The call of donations of goods for the Milford Harvest Fair 2019 is now open. Donations of good quality items for the stalls will be accepted from Monday, 19 August until Thursday, 29 August. Books, however, will only be accepted for 1 week: Monday, 19 August until Friday, 23 August. All items should be delivered to the goods acceptance area in Milford Care Centre located at the bottom of the carpark; directional signs will indicate the exact location on site. Donations of new and used items for the perennial favourite, the Wheel of Fortune, are also being sought.

THURSDAY, AUG 8 2019

Community

COMMUNITY 37 CONTACT NEWSDESK

065 671 9021 news@clareecho.ie

l MAMMA MIA: Missy Keating and Emily Jade Elliott pictured as they launched the Virgin Media Drive-In Movie Series. Kicking off on August 10, Virgin Media are bringing their Drive-In Movie Series to Ennis, Dundalk, Wexford, Dungarvan and Dublin. Cinema-goers will be able to watch fan favourites Mamma Mia and Bohemian Rhapsody on Europe’s largest mobile LED screen and have the sound broadcast directly to their car over FM radio.

There will be two screenings in each town and tickets can be booked online at virginmedia.ie/ movies.

Photo by Brian McEvoy

EAST/SOUTHEAST CLARE COUNTDOWN IS ON TO QUEST LOUGH DERG For the first time, Quest adventure series will take place on the banks of Lough Derg on Saturday 14th September 2019. Quest representatives and members of Lough Derg Marketing Group along with other local business representatives were on the banks of Lough Derg today to mark 12 weeks to the event.

This exciting, brand-new event, Quest Lough Derg, will see participants start and finish their event in Ballina and run, cycle and kayak their way around Lough Derg taking in locations like Tountinne, Garrykennedy, Ballycuggaran and Moylussa.

There are three routes to choose from for participants, the 22km ‘Challenge’ route, the 57km ‘Sport’ route and the 69km ‘Expert’ route. There’s a route to suit all levels of ability – by way of a guide for those new to the sport, the level of fitness required to compete in the ‘Challenge’ is similar required to run a 10km race.

Elite Event Management are working with support from Clare County Council, Tipperary County Council and Lough Derg Marketing Group to bring this high-profile event to the area.

Quest Adventure Series Director, Oliver Kirwan is already looking forward to this new event, he said “We are on the countdown now to the first ever Quest Lough Derg. The event is proving really popular with adventure racers already with nearly 1000 participants signed up already.

“The great thing about these events is that they’re really accessible and we would encourage local people to take a look and sign up for a route that suits their abilities – there’s something for everyone! We’ve had great support from our local partners already and we

know the community will be out to support everyone on the day too.”

Joe MacGrath, Chief Executive of Tipperary County Council and Chairman of Lough Derg Marketing Group said, “We are delighted that Quest is coming to Lough Derg, particularly at a time of year when the tourist season is drawing to a close.

With an estimated 1500 adventure racers expected to attend, this event will boost the Lough Derg economy by an estimated €280,000+. These events have a great reputation around the country and we look forward to welcoming adventure racers from around Ireland and abroad to experience all that Lough Derg has to offer for outdoor enthusiasts, foodies and culture seekers alike.

We look forward to working with the team at Quest to promote and support this event.”

Quest Adventure series has five Irish events, Quest Kenmare (March), Quest Glendalough (April), Quest 12/24 – Sneem & South Kerry (31st August), Quest Lough Derg (14th September) and Quest Killarney (12th October).

For more information visit www. questadventureseries.com/race/ quest-lough-derg/ or email kelly@ eliteevents.ie or call 087 6024621.

At the launch of Quest Lough Derg at Twomilegate Amenity Park were, back row, Arlene White (Tourism East Clare), Oliver Kirwan (Quest Lough Derg), Andree Walkin (UL Sport), middle row, Ruth Mulhern (Tourism Officer, Tipperary County Council), Amanda Mooney (Inland Fisheries Ireland), front, Derek Kiely (GoTri Adventure Club). Photo by Odhran Ducie

38 BUSINESS

THURSDAY, AUG 8 2019

BUSINESS

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

Nia set to exhibit at Vitality 2019

N

IA Natural Beauty, a skincare producer based in Kilrush, Co. Clare will be exhibiting at Vitality this September. Vitality is a festival and celebration of natural health, wellbeing and fitness taking place in the RDS Dublin Saturday, September 28 and Sunday, September 29.

Vitality will bring together leading Irish and international experts in natural health, nutrition, wellbeing, fitness, and sustainability, including Nia Natural Beauty from Clare.

Speaking at the launch of Vitality, Alan McGrath of Health Stores Ireland, who are behind the event, said: “Vitality 2019 is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the natural health industry in Ireland and bring the collective wealth of knowledge of our health stores to a wider audience.

“We’re delighted to have health store representatives from Clare and all over Ireland at Vitality. Over the two days we’ll also have a jam-packed schedule of talks by leading Irish and international experts, cooking demonstrations, yoga and mindfulness classes across four stages. l BEST LIFE: Horticultural therapist Fiann Ó’Nualláin; Alan McGrath, Gerard Culhane “The health stores industry is worth over and Martha Brennan of Health Stores Ireland; Chef and cookbook author Oliver McCabe; €98million to the Irish economy per annum and Finn Murray at the Vitality 2019 launch

at retail level alone. This highlights the huge importance of the health stores industry to the Irish economy.

“Health stores are a staple of main streets throughout Ireland and contribute significantly to the local economy of towns in Clare. For many people, they’re a source of much-needed food supplements like vitamins and minerals; a one-stop-shop for finding out how to live a more sustainable life which will benefit their health and the planet, as well as being independent, family-run businesses helping to keep small-town Ireland alive.”

Headlining this year’s event will be: Holly White, vegan food blogger, cookbook author and fashion stylist; Alison Canavan, wellbeing coach, author and motivational speaker; Horticultural therapist and author Fiann Ó’Nualláin; and Paul Byrne, fitness expert, charity activist and founder of BodyByrne, who will be leading the charge at the Fitness Stage, where there will be a range of classes taking place over the weekend from family-friendly yoga to strength and mobility.

Weekend and day tickets from €8 are on sale now from: https://www.vitalityexpo.ie/.

Meere’s Simply Better pork win Great Taste star MEERE’S Pork Products have won a coveted One star award for their Handmade Irish White Pudding, produced for the Dunnes Stores Simply Better range.

Established in 1994, the Great Taste Awards are internationally recognised as the benchmark for fine food and drink and are one of the most respected awards in the world. This year almost 13,000 products were blind-tasted by a panel of over 500 industry experts, including acclaimed chefs, restaurateurs and food critics, to find the best tasting entries.

The Simply Better Collection, which is Dunnes Stores’ premium food brand, is one of the most celebrated food labels in Ireland and has been awarded 135 Great Taste Awards since it was established in 2013.

Diarmuid Murphy, Simply Better Brand Manager, said, “We are delighted to work with

Barry and Orlaigh from Meere’s Pork Products, to source our Simply Better Handmade Irish White Pudding and we are thrilled for these fantastic products to be recognised internationally through these awards”.

No stranger to awards, Meere’s Pork Products were first introduced to Simply Better by winning the Dunnes Stores Simply Better Small Producer Award at the Irish Quality Food Awards in 2017, which lead to Meere’s producing exclusive products for the Simply Better Collection as part of their prize.

Speaking about their win, Orlaigh from Meere’s Pork Products , said, “To be recognised with such a prestigious Great Taste Award is a dream come true, and something that would not have been possible for a small producer like ourselves without the support of the Simply Better team.

l TASTY: Orlaigh and her dad are celebrating this week following their win at the prestigious Great Taste Awards 2019

BUSINESS 39

THURSDAY, AUG 8 2019

Ennis gym offers to share new AED with wider community

A

GYM in Ennis has offered the use of it’s new defibrillator to the wider Ennis community.

The Irish Heart Foundation estimates that sudden cardiac death (SCD) kills more than 5,000 people in Ireland each year, including around 100 people under the age of 35. Their message is clear, we need more defibrillators.

One local health and fitness club in Ennis has answered that call.

Ozone Health and Fitness, based in the Quin Road Business Park, recently upgraded their automated external defibrillator (AED) and has extended an open invitation to the local community and businesses to avail of this life saving equipment should the need arise.

Ozone manager Mike Hogan explains why they invested in a defib and are making it available to the community of Ennis; “There’s a great saying – those who have the ability to do more, have the responsibility to do more. The people of Ennis have been great to us and we want to give back. If having this available saved one life then it’s worth it.”

With one of the longest opening hours of most businesses in town and certainly the Quin Road Business Park, Mr Hogan feels they can give people peace of mind if they are looking for help. “We are open seven days a week and from 7am to 10pm Monday to Friday, and also Saturdays and Sundays

for a shorter period. We hope no one ever has to use it but should it ever happen it’s on their doorstep. We just want to get the word out there and make people aware that it is here for them to use,” he said.

Ozone Health and Fitness have been operating for 11 years this year and is owned by local businessman, Ken O Malley. Mr O Malley has extended a warm invitation to all Business Operators in the Quin Rd to come down and see where the AED is installed and introduce yourselves to the dedicated team of Fitness Professionals on site who are fully trained in its use. “For the last 11 Years we have built a fantastic community with our incredible clients and staff. We have been in the business of helping people get healthier / Fitter and Heart Health is at the forefront of what we do every day. Now we are in a position to go a step further and help people when they are most vulnerable,” Mr O’Malley added.

Ozone Health and Fitness full address, if you ever need to access the defibrillator, is Unit 10 Block B, Quin Road Business Park, Ennis, Co. Clare V95 HK58 or you can contact them on 065 6842607.

l SHARING IS CARING: Ozone Health and Fitness manager Mike Hogan with their upgraded AED

Country Store’s 1st birthday

THE Country Store in Broadford celebrated its first year in business under new ownership in style at the weekend, with large crowds descending on the popular retail store, café and bakery.

Proprietor Karen O’Connor threw a party for her loyal customers on August 5 Bank Holiday Monday, with visitors being treated to food, refreshments and fun with Disney characters and a ‘magic mirror selfie booth’ on hand to keep children (and big kids) entertained. There was also music and dancing aplenty to the Michael Sexton social and set dancing band. Within one year of business, The Country Store has become a focul point for the village of Broadford with 22 people now employed by the busy business.

Reflecting on her year, Karen said, “A huge thanks to all our customers, friends, neighbours and family for all your custom, kindness and help over the last 12 months helping us to get to where we are today. A massive thanks also to all of our hard working staff. We really appreciate your hard work and effort over the last 12 months. Here’s to next year! Best wishes, Karen, David and family.”

Contact The Country Store on (061) 473 977. Opening hours: Mon-Fri 7am-8pm (café 9am-6pm); Saturday 8am-6pm (café 9am-4pm); Sunday 9am-3pm (café 9am-2pm).

l A HAPPY OCCASSION: (far left) Caoilin and Roisín O’Brien with Mickey Mouse at the one year celebrations in Broadford and (left) Edward Duggan with baby Dan Scanlon; (pictured right) The Country Store owner Karen O’Connor (far right) enjoying the day with (from left) her husband David O’Connor, Leslie McNamara and Tara O’Brien

THURSDAY, AUG 8 2018

CÚL CAMPS PHOTOS ACROSS THE COUNTY

CÚL CAMPS 41 CONTACT NEWSDESK

l THE CÚL KIDS: Attending Kellog’s Cúl Camps across the county last week were (clockwise from top left); Darragh O’Loughlin & John Davoren at the Michael Cusacks Kelloggs Cúl Camp; Áine Moroney, Charleigh McInerney & Aimee Cleary at the O’Callaghans Mills Kelloggs Cúl Camp; Liam McCarthy had an enjoyable five days at the Doonbeg Kelloggs Cúl Camp; Paraic McDonnell gets to the ball first at the St Breckans Kelloggs Cúl Camp; Ryan McGrath races to the front at the Clonlara Kelloggs Cúl Camp; Cousins Muireann McMahon & Aoibhinn O’Mara at the Miltown Malbay Kelloggs Cúl Camp; Anna Clancy puts boot to ball watched by Eimear Meaney, Rory Pender & Erin O’Connor Photos: Páraic McMahon at the Coolmeen/Kildysart Kelloggs Cúl Camp

EchoSport

Townies spring big surprise Bridge v Ballyea pick of second round ties HURLING CLUB CHAMPIONSHIP Rd2 PREVIEW A NUMBER of exciting contests are on the cards, chief among them the meeting of Sixmilebridge and Ballyea following Monday’s round two draw for the Clare senior and intermediate hurling championships, writes Páraic McMahon.

Holders Ballyea will meet 2017 winners Sixmilebridge who are now coached by Davy Fitzgerald in the winners section. Last year’s beaten finalists Cratloe have been drawn against Inagh/Kilnamona. A clash with Clonlara is the rewarded for Éire Óg following their one point win over Kilmaley on Saturday while very little will separate Feakle and Crusheen. The four successful teams will advance to the quarter-finals with the losers in round three.

They were paired with Cratloe in the opening round and now Whitegate have another difficult task on their hands as they must prepare for Kilmaley, a second successive defeat for the East Clare men would see them back in the relegation semi-finals with a win securing their place in round three.

These fixtures will take place on the weekend of August 17/18.

FIXTURES CLARE SHC RND2 Winners Section: Ballyea v Sixmilebridge Cratloe v Inagh/Kilnamona Éire Óg v Clonlara Feakle v Crusheen Losers Section: O’Callaghans Mills v Newmarket-on-Fergus Clarecastle v Clooney/Quin Whitegate v Kilmaley Tulla v Wolfe Tones

CLARE IHC RND2 Winners Section: Tubber v Corofin Scariff v Parteen St Josephs Doora/Barefield v Broadford Smith O’Briens v Inagh/Kilnamona Losers Section: Sixmilebridge v Newmarket-on-Fergus Cratloe v Clarecastle Killanena v Éire Óg Bodyke v Ruan

S

EVEN games took place in the Clare senior hurling championship on Saturday marking the beginning of the 2019 campaign.

Despite raising four green flags, WHITEGATE still ended up on the losing side in their clash with CRATLOE. Despite being reduced to fourteen men when Sean Collins was shown a straight red card, the 2014 double champions showed great resolve to record a 0-29 4-12 win. Terence Fahy’s East Clare side though they came out on the losing side will take a lot of positives from the game as they prepare for round two in a fortnight.

A Colm Galvin goal on fifty six minutes accompanied a strong CLONLARA finish as they outscored O’CALLAGHANS MILLS 1-05 0-01 in the final ten minutes to secure a 1-18 1-10 victory. Cathal Tots O’Connell kept their account ticking throughout but was one of three players to receive a red card, the other two being from the Mills. Killian Nugent managed to save two penalties for last year’s semi-finalists but it wasn’t enough to stop Clonlara who will go from strength to strength.

Intermediate champions, FEAKLE consolidated their senior status for 2020 deservedly overcoming NEWMARKET-ON-FERGUS 2-12 1-13. Goals in either half, a Shane McGrath penalty and a Gary Guilfoyle rebounded effort sunk the Blues.

In the shock of the round, Clare Cup champions KILMALEY suffered a one point extra time defeat to ÉIRE ÓG. David Reidy’s last gasp 65 made it 1-18 0-20 in favour of the Townies. Playing with the aid of the breeze, a Shane O’Donnell goal gave the Ennis club a six point half-time lead. County panellist Michael O’Neill struck the equaliser late on to send the tie to extra time. The excitement continued and it would take the last puck to separate the sides. Éire Óg march on to the winners section while Kilmaley will be the team everyone is hoping to avoid in the losers group.

INAGH/KILNAMONA bounced back from their defeat to Kilmaley last weekend impressively etching out a 1-24 1-10 win against TULLA. Jason McCarthy’s absence through suspension didn’t deter Fergal Hegarty’s men who proved too strong for the 2007 winners.

Cathal Malone scored a hat-trick with fellow Clare panellist Shane Golden hitting the back of the net in SIXMILEBRIDGE’S dominant 4-15 0-09 meeting with CLARECASTLE. As well as laying down a marker, Tim Crowe’s charges welcomed Jamie Shanahan back into the fold for his first competitive appearance of the year.

Extra time was also required in the anticipated clash of BALLYEA and CLOONEY/QUIN. Level seven times in normal time, Peter Duggan and Niall Deasy traded scores near the death to result in extra time. A blistering start to the second half where Duggan netted two goals

in six minutes saw Clooney/Quin build up a seven point advantage but they would only add four further points as the county champions through a Tadhg Lynch goal, plus points from Deasy and Gary Brennan levelled matters. Captain Tony Kelly fired 1-02 in the first half of extra time as they took control with Niall Deasy converting a penalty on seventy six minutes to seal their 3-23 2-19 win.

CRUSHEEN accounted for WOLFE TONES 3-18 2-05. The Shannon side built up a 2-03 0-02 lead inside twelve minutes but remarkably would b e outscored 3-16 0-02 for the remainder of the tie as the Blood and Bandages displayed their character which has been showcased on several occasions i n the past decade. There’s always a championship win in the Tones, one that usually comes in the dying moments but serious reflection must ensue for this to occur.

There were no surprises in the intermediate championship with the fancied five of ST JOSEPHS DOORA/ BAREFIELD, SCARIFF, TUBBER, SMITH O’BRIENS and BROADFORD racking up big wins, COROFIN, PARTEEN and INAGH/KILNAMONA also qualified for the winners section.

l WINNING SIDES: (above) David Reidy’s last gasp ‘65 was the difference for Éire Óg and (below) a Niall Deasy penalty helped Ballyea seal the deal

Photos by Martin Connolly

GOLF

THURSDAY, AUG 8 2019

43

Lahinch Golf Club Captain’s Prize Ennis Golf Club 2019 Membership and Club Open Day

7:00 pm Friday 9th August

INTRODUCTORY FULL MEMBERSHIP 2019/2020 €550

l TOP HONOURS: Winner of Lahinch Golf Club’s Seniors Captains Prize (Frances Garrahy Plate) John O Flaherty and Captains winner (on right) Greg Young recieve their awards from Captain Eamon Foley in Lahinch on Sunday night Photo by Brian Arthur

If you are interested in enjoying 6 holes of Golf and sampling our Club atmosphere with some refreshments and a burger afterwards. Cost €7.

Please RSVP to gerry.hannon@ennisgolfclub.com to register your interest.

Improve distance control

S

INCE attending both The Irish Open and The Open I’ve realised the main difference between the current top players in the world and the rest of us is how good their timing is.

Their golf swings look extremely controlled and outside of John Rahm I realised none of them look like they are hitting the ball hard. John Rahm gets away with hitting it harder because his back swing is very short and connected, however the rest of the players I followed, look like they are swinging their clubs using only 80 per cent of their power. Since seeing this I’m forcing myself to hit one extra club than I normally would hit on the course. Also sometimes I might find myself with a yardage that is directly inbetween two clubs and I often go for the shorter club and hit it harder, however now I’m choosing the longer club and l GOING THE DISTANCE: Jon Rahm, who won the Irish Open, is the only player who gets away with hitting it hard

Photo by Brian Arthur

I’m forcing myself to swing smoother.

Since doing this I’ve noticed my strike and distance control has dramatically improved along with my direction. Generally when we try to hit a shot harder, we often start our downswing too early with our hands to try create more speed using our hands, rather than waiting for our bigger muscles (hips & shoulders) to rotate through impact. In fact when we wait for these bigger muscles we will hit the ball further and straighter.

If you are struggling with your distance control then start working on your timing and try hitting one club extra than you normally would hit and work on swinging smoother. You will find not only will your distance control improve, but your ball striking and consistency will also benefit from your new improved rhythm.

PGA Golf Professional

#PadraigKnowsGolf

Padraig McGrath

GOLF ANALYSIS

The Scorecard in association with

ENNIS GOLF CLUB The Seniors Thursday Competition was a 3 Ball Modified Scramble, over 14 holes 1st John McNamara, Seamus Hanrahan, Pierce Cahill 78 Points 2nd Sean Ryan, Fintan McEvoy, Steve Burns 75 Points 3rd Eamonn Kelly, Eamon Murphy, Declan Hanley 73 Points 4th Ollie Kennelly, Padraig Ryan, Jimmy McEnery 71 Points 5th Tim Scanlon, Willie Donnellan, John R Ryan 71 Points 6th Sean O Gorman, S¬ean Fitzpatrick, Alph Duggan 70 Points 7th Michael Torpey, Johnny Cullinan, Ml Considine 70 Points 8th Michael Carmody, Tom Woulfe, Pat Mc Inerney 70 Points Ladies 18 Hole S/Ford Wed 31st 1st Rita O’Brien (21) 39pts 2nd Una O’Reilly (36) 37pts Gross Mary Lenihan (15) 19pts 3rd Helen Harnett (24) 35pts 4th Kathleen Frehill (35) 34pts 9 Hole Competition 1st Geraldine O’Rourke (36) 23pts 2nd Mary Woulfe (28) 17pts Seniors 30th July 1st Carmel Verling, Geraldine O’Mahony, Mary McMahon & Jean Moloney 60.6

2nd Susan O’Brien, Margaret Flanagan & Mary Glynn 64 3rd Pat Leacy, Gert Finn & Anne Casey 64.5 KILRUSH GOLF CLUB OPEN WEEK Sunday August 04 Queally’s SuperValu Men’s Singles Stroke 1 David McMahon (13) 64 2 John Donnelly (14) 65 (B9) 3 Matt Fitzpatrick (20) 65 Saturday August 03 Queally’s SuperValu Men’s Singles Stableford 1 Conor Saunders (14) 39 pts 2 Shane Lillis (2) 38 pts 3 Michael Ryan (19) 37 pts (B9) Friday August 02 Queally’s SuperValu 18 Holes Mixed Foursomes 1 G Williams (13) & M O’Sullivan (21) 67 2 T O’Dea (34) & M Keating (29) 60.5 (B9) Gross G Young (7) & A Gallagher (11) 75 3 T Clancy (7) & R Brew (30) 60.5 (B9) Thursday August 01 Queally’s SuperValu Ladies’ Singles Stableford 1 Joan O’Malley (19) 39 pts 2 Mary Keating (29) 38 pts (B9) 3 Anne Cooper (29) 38 pts 4 Muriel Kiely (27) 37 pts (B9) Cat 1 Mary Bolton (17) 37 pts Cat 2 Mary Young (22) 36 pts (B6) Cat 3 Stephanie Roughan (30)36 pts

44 www.clareecho.ie

THURSDAY, AUG 8 2019

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QUIZ 47

THURSDAY, AUG 1 2019

The Clare Echo Quiz

Which of these is not found 2 in the peatlands of County Clare? a.

Common goose b. c.

Feral cats Common lizard

Raised bogs are generally 3 found in which part of the country. a.

North of Ireland b.

West of Ireland c. Midlands

4

In what year was the Shannon Estuary designated as a Whale and Dolphin sanctuary? a. 1991 b. 2001 c. 2011

The largest mainland Puffin 5 colony is located at ____? a.

West of Kilkee b. c.

There are ____km’s of explor7 able caves in the Burren Region. a. 50 b. 70 c. 90

The Burren contains the lon8 gest ______ in the world? a. Stalactite b. Stalagmite c. Pillar

Which type of bat is common 9 to Clare’s woodlands and trees? a.

Fruit bat b. c.

Brown Long-Eared Bat Bulldog bat

How many types of land 10 and sea mammals are there in Clare? a. 11 b. 33 c. 55

Loop Head Cliffs of Moher

Which county as well as 6 Clare house the most turloughs? a. Donegal

l QUESTION 7: There are ____km’s of explorable caves in the Burren Region?

by Cian O’Broin

6. Galway 7. 90 8. Stalagmite 9. Brown Long-Eared Bat 10. 55

b. 900 c. 1100

b. Galway c. Wicklow

ANSWERS 1. 700 2. Feral cats 3. Midlands 4. 1991 5. Cliffs of Moher

The Burren in Clare is home 1a. 700 to how many species of plants?

OLD IMAGES OF COUNTY CLARE

Quin Abbey Cloisters, Quin, Co. Clare

Image NLI.ie / Collection: The Lawrence Photograph Collection