The Clare Echo 16/05/19

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09 May 2019

HUSBAND DIED AFTER

2019 CHAMPIONSHIP PREVIEW

36 HOURS ON

SAME TROLLEY PÁRAIC MCMAHON

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news@clareecho.ie

GARDENING FEATURE

N ENNISTYMON woman has described the horrifying last days endured by her deceased husband on a trolley at University Hospital Limerick.

Speaking openly at a protest held last weekend calling for the restoration of A&E services at Ennis General Hospital, Marie McMahon revealed that her husband was forced to spend 36 hours on a trolley “in the same position” before his death, leaving behind a wife, a daughter, son-in-law, two brothers, one sister, extended family and friends.

Recounting the conditions, Marie stated

“During that period of time what I witnessed was appalling, people desperate to use the toilet and unable to get out of the trolley, some of them were confused and upset. I saw a woman being handed a bed pan and having to manoeuvre herself onto it while the rest of those present tried to ignore what was happening.”

Full story PAGE 10

2 NEWS

THURSDAY, MAY 9 2019

Index NEWS

2-21

ENTERTAINMENT

22-23

FESTIVAL PHOTOS

26-29

BUSINESS

31-33

GARDENING

34-38

CHAMPIONSHIP

39-47

PROPERTY

48-51

CLASSIFIEDS

52-53

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 paul.mccarthy@clareecho.ie or niall@clareecho.ie

lON THE RUN: The 10th Regeneron Great Limerick Run took place in Limerick at the weekend with over 10,220 participants completing the course Photo by Arthur Ellis

An Post profits pose questions PÁRAIC McMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

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400 percent increase in profits at An Post to €41m raises serious concerns following the closure of 150 post offices around the country, according to Fianna Fáil’s Rita McInerney.

Last summer An Post announced the locations of 151 post offices it was closing as part of a restructuring plan.

The greatest number of closures were in Galway, followed by Donegal, Cork, Kerry, Mayo and Wexford.

Cooraclare, Craggagh, Cree, Doonbeg, Kilfenora and Lissycasey saw their post offices close in Clare and services closed in every county except Dublin.

2018 saw profits rise to €41m at the State owned postal company. Last year, An Post also sold its majority stake in The Gift Voucher Shop, which operates the One4All gift voucher scheme for €100m netting the post office company €54m. The profit of €41m was before transformation costs, pension interest and taxation and compares with a profit of €8.4m for 2017. Revenues were up seven percent to close to €900m.

General Election candidate, McInerney maintained the Government has serious questions to answers as profits soared. “Fine Gael’s anti-rural policies has left communities in parts of Clare

and other counties reeling. People living in smaller towns and villages are extremely angry and frustrated in the aftermath of the loss of essential services.

Over the past eight years, they have experienced falling garda numbers, closing Garda stations, reductions in teacher numbers in small schools and closed post offices”.

In a statement to The Clare Echo, she added, “I accept in some instances the postmaster or postmistress wanted to retire, but this did not have to lead to the removal of the service from the local area. Some local people were only too willing to incorporate the post office service into their existing shop/business premises but were not afforded the opportunity as the blanket closures went ahead.”

The Doonbeg businesswoman questioned the expense the €41m profits had on rural communities. “Yet another dagger in the hearts of rural communities already reeling from the failure to recognise the need to support our side of the country when it comes to job creation and sustainability. A mere €8m of those profits would have kept all these post offices open.

She added, “Post Offices play an integral part in the very heart of local communities and as a matter of urgency we need to introduce a public service obligation to ensure the future of the network in rural Ireland.”

4

NEWS

THURSDAY, MAY 9 2019

Sharon Shannon among acts set for Lahinch golf 'festival' PÁRAIC McMAHON

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AUL McGinley’s plans for creating a “festival atmosphere” at Lahinch for The Dubai Duty Free Irish Open have received two major boosts.

Clare County Council and An Garda Síochána have agreed to make Main St in Lahinch a pedestrianised zone for the four day European tour event to encourage visitors to stay on in the town each evening once the golfing concludes.

According to the tournament host, McGinley pedestrianising the street was one of his objectives once he knew Lahinch was the right venue. “I remember we had our first meeting down here and the County Council and the Gardaí were there. We were talking about the festival and that it wasn’t just golf - [it was about] bringing the town into the golf course and the golf course into the town. Everybody can relate to the pubs, the craic

and the banter. Close down the town, put a stage in the town, bring the music.

"To cut a long story short, they’ve agreed that, the County Council and the Gardaí only recently in the last week have signed off on that so we’re going to have a street for pedestrians only”.

A mini stage will be erected in the centre of the town which will be home to Irish music while a larger stage will be in the tented village opposite the clubhouse on the castle course.

Ruan accordion player Sharon Shannon is confirmed to take to the stage on one of the nights during the Irish Open while Hermitage Green will play the Sunday night. Further musicians will be announced in the coming weeks.

Speaking in Co Clare recently, McGinley expressed his confidence that 2019 would be an Irish Open to remember. “I really believe it is going to be a great venue, it’s amazing how much the people of Ireland have rowed behind it, amazing how the me-

lHEAVILY INVOLVED: Paul McGinley has led the calls for a festival atmosphere to be in place at Lahinch in July Photo by Brian Arthur

dia here have rowed behind it. For some reason we all love Lahinch, it’s a town that’s got a lot of good will, a lot of love and we all love the golf course too, those things have overridden every challenge that we’ve had and I think it’s really going to turn into a successful event.

“Sharon Shannon is going to be one of the performers, she may

well be the first, we’ve got other performers as well. I really want to create that festival atmosphere.

"The golf course will take care of itself and represent us really well but I want to ignite the craic up there in the evening, it’s about banter and having people on the streets with music going on at the same time, there will be a party atmosphere”.

Election poster vow is broken A FIANNA Fáil local election candidate who committed to not using posters during the campaign has broken his word.

Posters of Mark Nestor who is running in the Ennis Municipal District appeared on poles and various locations around the county town late last week. When his candidacy was confirmed, the party’s youngest candidate in Clare insisted he would not utilise posters and that his campaign would be self-financed.

Dermot Hayes who is running as an Independent told The Clare Echo that other candidates were “furious” over the development. Numerous attempts to contact Nestor on Tuesday and Wednesday proved to be unsuccessful.

However while speaking on Clare FM, the Cloughleigh native explained why he changed his mind on the subject.

“When I began my campaign I made a decision not to put up posters simply because I was canvassing my own area and the feedback was positive on the doors. I gave two nights canvassing outside of my area and people were saying ‘who is this young lad, we do not know him’. I felt as a first time candidate to give myself any chance of being elected I had to put up posters.”

Labour candidate Seamus Ryan had already purchased posters and planned to use them however he felt it was inappropriate to use them as every other candidate was opting against doing so.

6

NEWS

THURSDAY, MAY 9 2019

'Taoiseach should visit hospitals, not go busking' PÁRAIC McMAHON

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JUNIOR doctor working at University Hospital Limerick has criticised Taoiseach Leo Varadkar for failing to visit hospitals during his recent trips to the Mid-West.

Taoiseach Varadkar was in Limerick last week as Fine Gael ramp up their European and local election campaigns. A month previous he was in Ennis for the official opening of Scoil Chríost Rí, Cloughleigh.

On both occasions, the former Minister for Health did not stop by University Hospital Limerick or Ennis General Hospital.

Speaking at Sunday’s protest organised by Friends of Ennis General Hospital, Dr. Des Shearer declared Ireland’s health service is “at breaking point”.

“I’m not from Ennis, I’m not from Limerick, I’m not even from Munster, I’m from a small city called Belfast in Antrim. You don’t

need to be from here to see that there is a problem across the entire island. The health service is at breaking point and there is a crisis. I don’t need to tell you again what people have already told you about how bad the conditions are”.

Shearer insisted it is no longer time for words and instead action needs to be taken by the Government. “We need more staff, we need more beds, we need more primary health care and we need more funding.

"The Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and the Minister for Health Simon Harris know that we need this, a report was done over a year ago and they are well aware of it so they need to actually do something about it instead of saying they will do another report. They don’t even come to visit the hospital in Limerick, they just busk on the streets”

MORE ON HOSPITAL PROTEST PAGE 10

l FRUSTRATED: UHL junior doctor Des Shearer attended a protest at O'Connell Square in Ennis on Sunday, where he outlined his concerns Photo by John Mangan ADVERTORIAL

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K Ardnacrusha opens for summer 2019 ESB is once again opening the gates of the historic Ardnacrusha Power Station to schools and the general public for a unique visitor experience into Ireland’s first national hydro-electric station in Co. Clare.

The decision to run the tours this summer is based on the popularity of both school and public tours over the past two years when, in 2017, ESB opened the gates to visitors to mark 90 years since ESB’s Foundation. School group visits are being facilitated from 23 May to 28 June 2019, while public tours run from 1 July to 13 September 2019. The guided tours run from Monday to Friday, run for approximately 90 minutes and each tour can accommodate groups of up to 30. All bookings can be made online at www.esb.ie/ardnacrushatours.

Visitors are welcomed to the Ardnacrusha Experience at the recently refurbished visitors’ centre before going out on site to view the impressive headrace canal, locks and tailrace. Once inside the station, the living heritage of Shannon Scheme is brought to life through a series of animations which celebrate the history and impact of this iconic project. Visitors are given access to the station with views of the turbine hall and a visit to the original control room.

ESB’s Alan Bane, Plant Manager at Ardnacrusha says: “The Ardnacrusha Experience tells the story of the power of electricity and its transformative impact on Irish life; it offers the opportunity for people to learn not just about the history of the plant dating back to its inception in the 1920s but also of ESB’s brighter future strategy which is leading the secure, affordable transition to a low-carbon energy future for Ireland.”

For more information and for accessibility details, visit: www.esb.ie/ardnacrushatours.

MC Home Trends located on Parnell Street Ennis are having a fantastic Sofa Sale with up to 50% off all Sofa’s.

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To make your shopping experience easier on your pocket, the team at Kmc Home Trends are happy to take a deposit giving you the customer the option to spread your payments over a period of time without incurring any additional charge.

For Quality, Service and Value don’t miss out on the Up to Half Price Sale on all Sofas. Sale must end Saturday 11th May at 5.30pm.

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8

NEWS

THURSDAY, MAY 9 2019

SHANNON CONSORTIUM AWARDS

l SHOWCASE: Dr Gwen Moore, Director of Teaching and Learning, MIC, Prof. Eugene Wall, President MIC, Regional Teaching Excellence Award winner Dr Fionnuala Tynan, Reflective Pedagogy and Early Childhood Studies, Faculty of Education, MIC, Prof. Emer Ring, Dean of Education, MIC and Dr Lisha O’Sullivan, Head of Department of Reflective Pedagogy & Early Childhood Studies, MIC pictured recently at the Shannon Consortium Regional Teaching Excellence Awards held in Mary Immaculate College. The Shannon Consortium, a collaborative alliance between UL, MIC, and LIT, aims to showcase and champion outstanding practice in higher education teaching from across the Photo by Brian Arthur Shannon Region through the Shannon Consortium Regional Teaching Award process

MINISTER for Justice and Equality, Charlie Flanagan has been contacted in relation to concerns at staffing levels at Ardnacrusha Garda Station.

Having previously written to Garda Commissioner Drew Harris outlining his concerns, Cllr Cathal Crowe has now brought his case to the office of Justice Minister, Charlie Flanagan. The South Clare Garda station forms part of the Henry St Garda District in the Limerick Garda Division.

Deployment of resources within this Division is the responsibility of the Divisional Officer based at Henry St. Three Gardaí are currently assigned to Ardnacrusha following the recent retirement of Eugene Long who is now running against Crowe as a Fine Gael candidate in the Shannon Municipal District.

A response on behalf of Commissioner Harris to Cllr Crowe highlighted that a change to staffing levels was very unlikely.

“There has been a reduction in all aspects of crime from the year 2018 to 2019, with the exception of public order and criminal damage incidents. While there is an increase, it should be noted that this increase is a small amount i.e. six extra criminal damage incidents and three extra public order incidents, with most public order incidents referring to individuals rather than groups”.

These statistics provided by the Gardaí have been refuted by the Fianna Fáil councillor. “I don’t think that the statistics on Commissioner Harris’ computer screen are reflective of what has been happening on the ground since the start of 2019 and on this basis I have written to him again to restate the case for extra guards,” he said in a statement to The Clare Echo.

In the space of two weeks in April, he noted, “there has been an alleged sexual assault, 3 shop break-ins, an elderly man scammed by bogus tree felling contractors and the theft of several items including bicycles and a trailer. There are also dozens of complaints of anti-social behaviour”.

He added, “Three Gardaí are not enough to cover this area and the rostering schedule in place also means that for 40% of the week there is no guard on duty in Ardnacrusha.”

Scariff works to be completed two years behind schedule

SHERLOCK PROVIDES STORY OF RESILIENCE FOR CLARE STUDENTS FORMER Dublin footballer Jason Sherlock addressed 250 secondary school students from all over Clare and beyond on his “Story on Resilience” at a recent event in glór.

The “Be the Best You Can Be” talk, which was a joint initiative with Clare Comhairle Na nÓg, Clare County Council, Clare Youth Service and Clare Joint Policing Committee (JPC), was attended by students came from eleven Secondary Schools across the County, Ennis Youthreach and Coláiste Iósaef, Kilmallock, County Limerick.

In his address to students, Jason Sherlock outlined how there is much more to young people than any one-dimensional label attached by a bully, someone on social media or society in general. He offered them advice on how to “Be the Best You Can Be” by following their dream and having a plan to help. The former Gaelic footballer also stressed the importance of developing resilience and self belief before engaging students in a questions and answers session.

Justice Minister contacted over Ardnacrusha

The event formed part of the Comhairle actions relating to Identity and the 5-A-Day Campaign for Positive Mental Health – Accept yourself, Connect with Others, Be Creative & Relax, Be Active and Healthy and Give something back.

Clare Comhairle na nÓg is a local forum for young people where they can discuss local and national issues of relevance to them.

NECESSARY road works and the delay to complete them has caused “a lot of inconvenience” for the businesses and residents of Scariff.

Cotter Plant Hire are to commence work on May 20th with an estimated completion date of August 30th for the proposed upgrade of the main street in Scariff.

In February 2017, Clare County Council hosted an informal public session on the proposal to upgrade this stretch of road. The local authority stated two years ago, “The €111,764 project is 85% funded by the Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs and is expected to be completed by mid-2017”.

“It has taken a long time to get the issues in Scariff dealt with.

The 30th of August seems a long way away but there is a lot of work involved,” Cllr Pat Burke acknowledged.

“Residents in Scariff had to put up with a lot of inconvenience for the last year to year and a half and in fairness Irish Water held it up,” Cllr Joe Cooney stated. He felt the awarding of a contract was “brilliant news” but appealed to engineers within the Killaloe Municipal District to “make sure for the August bank holiday weekend that everything will be as good as possible and under control. It is a major weekend for East Clare”.

Although he welcomed the announcement, Cllr Pat Hayes expressed his frustration with the delay. “I’m disappointed it has taken so long, for the people of Scariff it has been very disappointing and it is not a good way to do business. The time it takes projects to get through the system to get done takes the good out of them, the people of Scariff have been very patient”.

Reiterating comments from Cllr Cooney to be prepared for the August bank holiday in which Scariff hosts the annual harbour festival, Hayes added, “I would ask that one side is fully completed and majority of work nearer to town be done”.

Senior executive engineer, Tom Mellett confirmed the plans are now on display at the Scariff office of Clare County Council.

NEWS 9

THURSDAY, MAY 9 2019

Late Late debut a 'dream come true' for Clodagh PÁRAIC McMAHON

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LODAGH Lawlor of Newmarket-on-Fergus had a twenty fourth birthday to remember as she made her debut on The Late Late Show and was also named the winner of the show’s search for a country music star.

Busking since the age of 17, Clodagh is no stranger to RTÉ screens having appeared on The Voice of Ireland in 2016, Ireland's popular talent show which had judges including Andrea Corr and deceased Cranberries singer Dolores O'Riordan.

She was a member of the studio audience for last year’s country music special and made a promise to herself to become a guest on the Late Late stage by the time the 2019

l RISING LOCAL TALENT: Clodagh Lawlor from Newmarket on Fergus speaks to host Ryan Tubridy while appearing on the Late Late show last weekend

edition came around.

According to Lawlor, winning the competition is “a dream come true”. She also performed alongside Nathan Carter singing a duet to ‘Shallow’ in front of an audience which included her proud parents Donal and Mary.

She will be back on the same stage as Carter, Clíona O’Hagan and Marty Mone at The Marquee in Cork on June 14th.

A two time senior camogie championship winner with Newmarket-on-Fergus, Clodagh toured parts of the US including Texas, South Dakota, Nashville, Washington, Montana, Wisconsin and Florida earlier this year with The Young Irelanders. She has said her ambition is "to fuse Irish Country with American Country".

It capped off a busy week for the past pupil of St Flannan’s College which included presenting from the VIP Country Music Awards on Monday for Clodagh’s Country Mix, a show she presents on Keep It Country TV for Sky TV.

10 NEWS

THURSDAY, MAY 9 2019

'No human should go through what my husband did at UHL' PÁRAIC McMAHON

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NORTH Clare woman has spoken publicly for the first time about the horrifying last days endured by her deceased husband on a trolley at University Hospital Limerick.

Last April, Thomas ‘Tommy’ Wynne died suddenly. He was admitted to hospital and spent 36 hours on a trolley “in the same position” before his death, leaving behind a wife, a daughter, son-in-law, two brothers, one sister, extended family and friends.

His wife, Marie McMahon from Ennistymon spoke openly about his final hours at a protest held in Ennis on Sunday organised by Friends of Ennis General Hospital in conjunction with the Restore Shannondoc Group.

Upon admission by ambulance to the A&E at UHL, Tommy was triaged and transferred to Section C of the unit. Recounting the conditions, Marie stated “His trolley was placed on a corridor behind others, the cubicles were full as was one side of the corridor.

Within a very short time more trolleys had been placed on the opposite side of the corridor so it quickly filled up. There was just enough space between both lines of trolleys to walk up and down but not enough space for equipment to be brought through or indeed for staff to access cupboards, this meant that each time anything had to be moved in the area, patients in trolleys had

to be moved to accommodate them. There were very few staff in Area C and when they did appear over a 14-hour period, it was to do specific tasks with specific patients.

There was no-one at no time taking an overall view or indeed attempting to liaise with patients. Most patients there were unaccompanied and alone”.

According to Marie, nurses took Tommy’s bloods and checked his blood pressure twice in the space of 14 hours. On these occasions, she raised her concerns to staff that he was having mini strokes and was susceptible to blood clots. “I asked to see a doctor and was told somebody would be with us soon, this was at 10pm, we had already been waiting since 1:30pm. We waited until the following morning at 3:15am to speak to a doctor, a total of 14 hours; 14 hours for a doctor to see someone whose symptoms fitted the criteria for act fast.

“During that period of time what I witnessed was appalling, people desperate to use the toilet and unable to get out of the trolley, some of them were confused and upset. I saw a woman being handed a bed pan and having to manoeuvre herself onto it while the rest of those present tried to ignore what was happening. I saw a man on a trolley opposite my husband handed a urine bottle which he had to try and deal with under his blanket, this was a scenario repeated a few times during that period of time.

"Other patients were sick and vomitting into bowls and constantly retching, all of this was taking place in full view of anyone in the area. There was no screens available for pri-

Clare woman had phone stolen while in treatment

AN ENNIS woman in full-time care who suffers from cerebral palsy, epilepsy and asthma had her phone stolen when admitted to University Hospital Limerick in the past fortnight.

Jennifer Hynes spent five days on a trolley at UHL in the past fortnight and is currently recovering from double pneumonia. Speaking at a protest organised by Friends of Ennis General Hospital, she recalled her latest experience in hospital.

“I spent five days on a trolley only last week in Limerick hospital. I have spent several weeks in Limerick hospital on a trolley. More than once this year I have been admitted to Limerick, on this admission unfortunately my phone was stolen.

"What kind of a country have we that Ennis Hospital cannot be left opened, why do people with all these conditions have to go to Limerick, I was in Ennis and I was told that I would have to go to Limerick to be treated that I could not go to Ennis, why does this have to happen to disabled people”.

Hynes expressed her frustration that the people of the Mid-West have to fight for services such as the reopening of the accident and emergency unit at Ennis General Hospital.

“At the moment I’m currently in a nursing home because I do not have people to care for me, I am a person of 42 years of age and I do not have people to care for me. Why do I and

vacy, indeed if they had been available there was nowhere to put them as there was not enough space to put them into, zero respect, dignity or compassion shown to anyone who was on a trolley or sitting on a chair”.

McMahon deplored the embarrassing situation where individuals' most intimate and private details were relayed with “no concern whatsoever for their privacy”. She felt that “nobody seemed to be in overall control” at the hospital. “I approached the desk at 10pm having waited some considerable time for anyone to appear, asked if I could speak to a doctor and ask how much longer I would have to wait, I was told that he was next to be seen and the doctor would be with him shortly. The doctor finally arrived at 3am, I left the hospital at 4am with the pleadings of my husband to take him home”.

When she returned to hospital the next day shortly after 1pm, Marie observed “nothing had changed, his trolley was still in the same place”. “I made a few attempts to get information, finally I was told he had been seen, would be admitted and that he was awaiting an MRI. I asked some further questions and was told I needed to speak to a doctor, I asked if this could be arranged and was told yes. I waited and waited, no doctor came.

“Tommy was getting very upset and kept begging me to bring him home, I explained to the best of my ability what was happening and that he was in the best place where he would be looked after. I had to leave him at approximately 7pm as he was getting so distressed, saying I would return later...I reluc-

tantly kissed him goodbye and left him tired, confused and upset. I thought I was doing the right thing. Sadly at 10:55pm that night Tommy was found unresponsive on that same trolley still in the same position where he had been placed 36 hours earlier. I hate to think of his last few hours alive, it was cruel, inhumane and barbaric, no human being should ever have to go through that yet it is happening everyday at UHL and UHG”.

Not long after his funeral, Marie wrote to the Taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Minister for Health, Simon Harris complaining about the way her husband was treated. Minister Harris took three months to respond while Varadkar has yet to reply to her correspondence. "If we were to visit A&E now we would see the same things being replicated, questions have to be asked as to what happens to those who have nobody to speak for them or ask questions.

“There is something particularly rotten in UHL and the failure to try and change or address the problem is galling. I and members of my family have tried to address issues by contacting politicians from right across the political divide...Most that I’ve written to including An Taoiseach have not bothered to acknowledge contact let alone give us the courtesy of a reply."

Concluding her address, Marie demanded action from Clare’s politicians to improve the health system in Ireland.

Ms McMahon added, “Our people are scared to get ill, scared to call an ambulance, scared to go into hospital, what have we become by allowing this”.

l UP IN ARMS: A crowd gathered at O'Connell Square in Ennis on Bank Holiday Sunday to air their experiences at UHL and to show their support for the reestablishment of A&E at Ennis Hospital

Photo by John Mangan

so many others like me have to fight for a service that we should automatically be given, other people are lucky but we should not have to fight for the service”.

“I need A&E open and everybody needs A&E open. I suffer from asthma, it was Ennis hospital that saved my life and

brought me to Limerick and it is Ennis hospital that is the reason I am here today. Why should any elderly person falls out in Miltown, why should they have to travel all the way to Limerick to be treated, it is not fair and Ennis hospital should be opened now”.

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€77.8M TURNOVER FOR SHANNON GROUP IN 2018 PÁRAIC MCMAHON

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FOURTH consecutive year of growth was recorded by Shannon Group plc in 2018.

As the parent company of Shannon Airport, Shannon Commercial Properties and Shannon Heritage, Shannon Group plc recorded a turnover of €77.8m in it’s most recent accounts which cover the year, 2018. This marks an eight percent increase on the previous year.

2018 was Shannon Airport’s busiest year this decade with passenger growth of 6.5 percent, exceeding 1.86 million. According to the RSES compiled by the Southern Regional Assembly, the Airport has the capacity for 4.5 million passengers without investment. During 2018 there were 25,556 take

offs and landings from the airport’s newly resurfaced runway, which at 3,199 metres is the longest runway in Ireland. Shannon Airport had flights to 30 destinations last year (15 in Europe, 8 in the UK and 7 in the US).

Shannon Commercial Properties completed its €40 million first-phase investment programme at Shannon Free Zone, more than doubling occupancy rates to 94% since 2013. Over 150,000 sq ft of renovated or new builds was completed in the Free Zone last year. Jaguar Land Rover (with the creation of 150 jobs), Edward Life Sciences, Aero-Zone, STS UJet Group, Stratos, Aerospace Asset Trading, Aerospace Inspection, Euro Superabrasive and Starbucks were new companies to set up in the SFZ last year.

Ireland’s largest commercial operator of day and night-time visitor attractions, Shannon Heritage noted a 4.3 percent increase in visitors and a record high of almost 925,000.

These attractions generated 253,000 bed nights, supported 840 direct and indirect

FAMILY FUN DAY BRINGS ALIVE THE SPIRIT OF SHANNON Shannon’s first ever ‘Fun Day at the Point’ took place on Monday with a wide range of groups coming together.

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O-ordinated by Siobhán Mulderrig, the idea was initially to get families out walking along the point but the day snowballed into much more with the Tidy Towns, Men’s Shed, firemen, scouts, business personnel, airtraffic controllers, educators and local politicians coming out to celebrate the occasions.

Hasting’s Cottage hosted a history lesson

by Olive Carey at the beginning of the day where the crowd were told about life there

during the War of Independence and how a British soldier was kept hostage at the same location.

A fairy trail followed with thirty to forty doors all painted by the Men’s Shed all inspired by various spots throughout Shannon. A clean up of the area allowed for a full field of picnic blankets at the Point with a mobile animal farm also set up enjoyed by the youngest attendees. As the evening progressed, the Shannon based rescue helicopter performed a fly by.

jobs and generated an economic value of €28 million to the Irish economy.

Matthew Thomas who next month will depart his role as CEO of Shannon Group applauded a “positive year” for the company.

“We have seen more passengers using our airport, more visitors enjoying our heritage tourist attractions, and our property portfolio attracting more businesses to the region.

It is particularly pleasing that all the Group’s divisions are showing growth in turnover and productivity.”

“2019 will undoubtedly be a challenging year for Shannon Airport. The world-wide grounding of the 737 Max aircraft is having serious implications for passengers and the aviation industry alike. At Shannon it is impacting our well supported and successful Norwegian and Air Canada services. This will affect our passenger throughput and resultant business as we build towards what is otherwise a busy summer season. We continue to work with the airlines to assist them in

every way we can to aid the return of these services”.

“Following another successful year, the Group is now moving on to the next phase of its journey. We have an ambitious strategy to ensure continued growth in the years ahead.

Our plans demonstrate Shannon Group’s commitment to the NPF ambitions. We are confident that with the right supports and policies, we will play an important role in the successful implementation of Project Ireland 2040 and its promise to generate 75% growth outside of the capital over the next 21 years,” Chairperson Rose Hynes commented.

“We are determined to continue to maximise the opportunities in each of our businesses. As a very significant business in the regional and national economy, we are committed to working in partnership with all our stakeholders to ensure a vibrant and sustainable future for Shannon Group and our region,” Ms Hynes added.

Garret McPhillips and his family savoured the day. “The weather did help but it was the people that made it so good to be up there and proud to be from Shannon. I’m sure when it goes ahead next year that the numbers will easily treble. This was organised over a few weeks, and hopefully people will try to get involved with the groups that made

it possible.

“There has been a big focus recently in Shannon about trying to make it look like a proper town and this event certainly helped it do that. It may have only been for a day or so but it shows that the spirit, heart and togetherness is well and alive in Shannon,” the local election candidate added.

OMNIPLEX OPENING LATE SUMMER!

HOOK & LADDER OPENING SOON!

14 SHANNON NEWS

Clare Echo THE

Two new openings at Skycourt Omniplex Opening at SkyCourt Shannon The countdown is on, grab your popcorn and take your seats as SkyCourt Shannon Town prepare to welcome Omniplex Shannon!

Work is under way for the opening of a state of the art 5 screen Omniplex cinema. Due to open later this year, the Cinema will be located on the first floor in the former food

court. With 5 screens and daily showings and a capacity of up to 153 in some screens, SkyCourt Shannon will be the new much needed hub of entertainment in Shannon. Omniplex cinemas offer a fully immersive cinema experience with leather seating, all the latest sound and visual technology along with the best offering of popcorn, treats and drinks!

Hook and Ladder Opening at SkyCourt Shannon SkyCourt Shannon Town have announced some tasty news, Hook & Ladder will be opening in SkyCourt this summer. Hook & Ladder “Living Café” offer’s customers a unique experience with a variety of store concepts under one roof – café, furniture and home accessories store. Hook and Ladder will be offering a selection of tasty treats daily. Providing artisan food service for all taste buds, breakfast through to evening meals.

Customers can enjoy home baked cakes, a wide selection of premium coffees, specialty teas and assortment of fine wines. Hook and Ladder also offer an extensive range of affordable, high quality furniture and home accessories that will inspire and enhance your personal living space.

THURSDAY, MAY 9 2019

Clare Echo THE

THURSDAY, MAY 9 2019

Tekelek submit plans to extend operations

SHANNON NEWS

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From runway to golf green Monday 6th May 2019: The Dubai Duty-Free Irish Open maybe two months off but golf enthusiasts were getting in some early practice at an unlikely venue over the bank holiday weekend as Shannon Airport rolled out the green carpet to whet the appetite for this exciting golf event.

The gateway airport that will welcome golfers and fans from across the globe for the event at the stunning Lahinch course from July 3rd to 7th had hundreds of wannabe golf pros chancing their arm at the temporary green in the airport arrivals hall.

For the many transatlantic passengers landing in Shannon to play Lahinch or the many other links courses along the Wild Atlantic Way, it was an unexpected early start to their golfing holiday.

Shannon company, Tekelek Group plan to expand on it’s operations with an application currently before Clare County Council.

PÁRAIC MCMAHON

T

news@clareecho.ie

EKELEK are seeking to extend it’s three existing warehouses and all necessary ancillary services at Portdrine Development Park in Cratloe in the application. The company which was founded in 1995 by Liscannor native, Peter McCarthy is headquartered at the Shannon Free Zone where it’s sales and supports team are based.

Manufacturing of the company’s products including level sensing and tank monitoring solutions for oil, LPG/gas and water is done elsewhere in places such as Portdrine Development Park.

An environmental impact statement is not required as part of the application as the development does not impact on protected structures with the wastewater treatment and water supply to utilise the existing connections.

Submissions have been made to date by the Irish Aviation Authority who clarified “we have no observations on this application” and Transport Infrastructure Ireland. Cllr PJ Ryan requested at the end of April to be a representative on this particular planning application.

Speaking at a Shannon Chamber breakfast briefing last month, McCarthy revealed that Tekelek had delivered “more than 3.5 million sensors across five continents. Europe is our biggest market and we are growing in America”. In recent years, the company acquired Ingenion Design in a deal worth €2m, it now employs 45 people.

lPRACTICE MAKES PERFECT: Pictured clockwise is Shannon Airport Managing Director Andrew Murphy with 7 year old Darcy Sheridan from London, “ Superman” David Barnett (London) and Doug Almond (Mancherster UK) Photos by Arthur Ellis

16 SHANNON NEWS

Clare Echo THE

THURSDAY, MAY 9 2019

Plans lodged for multi-million euro development at Bunratty Castle & Folk Park PÁRAIC MCMAHON

news@clareecho.ie

S

HANNON Heritage has lodged plans for a significant multi-million euro development at the internationally famous Bunratty Castle and Folk Park.

A site notice erected on Friday outlined details of the works to be carried out which comes as part of a €8 million investment in Bunratty which is being funded by Shannon Group plc and Fáilte Ireland. It is one of the largest projects of this nature ever planned in the country.

An Environmental Impact Assessment Report (EIAR) and Natura Impact Statement (NIS) have already been prepared and will be submitted to Clare County Council as the planning authority with the application. “The development will consist of a ten year planning permission for the following works to the existing theme park and all associated landscaping and site development works”.

There are ten different aspects to the application which include restoration works to Bunratty House, the construction of a butterfly house within the existing walled garden and the addition of four sculptures including one at the entrance to the park.

One of the most ground-breaking aspects of the project is that that it will deliver Ireland’s first ever 4-D 270 degree visitor experience with a building to be constructed specifically

for this purpose. All 25 houses in the 19th century Folk Park and the 15th century Castle at the site will get an uplift. Motor home spaces are to be added to the car park which will see it’s canopy removed. A playground, boardwalk and picnic area are also included in the plans.

Works to and within the curtilage of Bunratty Castle include the installation of banners and glazed graphic panel at the battlements, a new pedestrian link and flagpoles plus the permanent raising of a new medieval style tent.

Commercial semiState body, Shannon Heritage is part of the Shannon Group and is one of the oldest tourist operators in the country. It launched back in 1963 with the medieval banquet at Bunratty Castle, which it still runs today. Managing Director, Niall O’Callaghan highlighted that this forms part of their “ambitious growth strategy”.

“Today’s milestone at our flagship is a further step towards our goal to significantly increase

visitors to our region and Ireland. It is a hugely exciting transformational project which will significantly enhance the storytelling, visitor interpretation and overall immersive experience of 800 years of history. Our staff and visitor feedback have been central to the vision of the ‘new’ Bunratty Castle and Folk Park and this, we believe, will create a major attraction of scale on the Wild Atlantic Way.” O’Callaghan stated their goal is to “reaffirm Bunratty Castle and Folk Park status as a ‘must visit’ destination. As early innovators with the launch of the world-famous medieval banquet at Bunratty in 1963, this project will again position Shannon Heritage as true innovators in Irish tourism. The investment will result in a significant increase in visitors

and the various elements of the project will appeal to a mass audience from the culturally curious to great escapers with authenticity at its core.”

The proposed development comes as Shannon Group maintain their focus on developing the Folk Park. Their stance was emphasised in February of this year following a request from Newmarket-on-Fergus councillor Pat McMahon (FF) for them to purchase the disused Shannon Shamrock Hotel and transform the hotel site which is adjacent to Bunratty Castle into a theme park. However a spokesperson insisted that Shannon Heritage did not own the Shamrock and had no intentions of buying it.

Deputy CEO of Shannon Group plc, Mary Considine noted of their development plans, “The implementation of our masterplan for Bunratty Castle and Folk Park will ensure that we give tourists even more reasons to visit our region and fly Shannon.”

In December 2016, Shannon Heritage unveiled a €1m facelift at the Castle and Folk Park which involved the development of a retail store and online brand, a café and new attractions around the Park and resulted in 30 extra jobs.

Shannon Heritage visitor numbers across it’s portfolio of attractions last year hit 924,718 a 4.3 percent increase on the previous year and double what the figures were in 2012. Despite not getting to avail of State funding, Shannon Heritage attractions generated 253,000 bed nights, supported 840 direct and indirect jobs and generated an economic value of €28 million.

Subject to planning approval and funding approval from Fáilte Ireland, it is anticipated work will commence in early 2020 with a view to completion in early 2021.

lCRAIC AGUS CEOL: A scene from Burnatty Castle at Easter

Photo by Eamon Ward

Clare Echo THE

THURSDAY, MAY 9 2019

SHANNON NEWS

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Eugene sees local politics as extension to Garda career PÁRAIC MCMAHON

news@clareecho.ie

U

PON retiring from An Garda Síochána in February after 34 years of service, Eugene Long did not envisage an entry into local politics.

However requests from Fine Gael eventually bore fruition with the Limerick native throwing his name into the ring in the Shannon Municipal District for the local election on May 24th. His arrival comes as the party attempts to launch an assault on one of Fianna Fáil’s strongest vote getters in the county, Cllr Cathal Crowe who also happens to live in the same estate as Long.

These discussions with Fine Gael members piqued Eugene’s interests as he saw a similarity with the work of a county councillor and that of a local Garda. “The work that was described to me the more I thought about it the more it appealed to me, it was similar to the type of work I had been doing as a Garda mostly community work, getting things sorted out for people, solving problems. When I first thought of running for local elections, I was thinking about politics and when it was described to me it appealed to me even more. If elected I’d be looking forward to doing that work which is a continuation of the work I’ve been doing for the past 20 years in Ardnacrusha”.

Prior to being stationed at Ardnacrusha, he was based at Roxboro, Askeaton, Ballylongford and started his career at Cahirciveen. On his current residence in Westbury, Eugene noted, “There is a lot of people living in the area from Limerick because it’s close to the city and it’s a beautiful estate with easy access to the city. A lot of Limerick people would have come out to live there because they are getting a mixture of rural and urban life, it’s a quieter way of life right on the edge of Limerick City with all the amenities it has to offer”.

Mixed views have been expressed locally on whether the Limerick border should extend into Clare including parts of Westbury, Carraigh Midhe and Shannon Banks. The fifty nine year old admitted that if elected he will carry the views of his own constituents rather than his personal beliefs.

“As a local politician I would do my best to do what the people want. My own personal thoughts would be the boundary is there a long time, I don’t see why Limerick would have to come out and take the part of Clare, there’s plenty on the outskirts of Limerick which is in County Limerick. You don’t see Dublin looking to extend their boundary into other counties around them, they just use up the land that is available in their own county. Whatever the locals want I will be acting for the locals, I will try and fulfil their wishes but I presume the people living in Clare would want to remain in Clare”.

A member of Fine Gael since March, Eugene is confident they will add to their current tally of one seat in the Shannon Municipal District. “Garret McPhillips is the other new contestant in the area, John Crowe is there all the time he is well established and

has done huge work for the area. Garret is well known in GAA circles, a nice guy and a good hard worker. Over this side I’m well known and hopefully the three of us will get elected, it would be great for the Fine Gael party if we were and it would be great for the electoral area to have good representation here. We would be new and vibrant coming with new ideas, we should make a difference if elected so I would hope people would think like that”.

In March, The Sunday Times reported that Gardaí in Limerick were at the centre of one of the biggest internal corruption investigations of recent years with two officers facing questioning for corruption and malpractice. As someone who served as a Garda in the city, Long admitted to being surprised by the allegations. “Nobody has been convicted yet, if it were to be the case I would be very disappointed but again I’m not going to comment as nobody has been convicted at this stage, we don’t know where it is going to go.

“These are people I would have worked with, Ardnacrusha is part of the Henry St sub district. It’s always a shock and a surprise to find out if something is going on around you that you were unaware of, that would go for anyone walk of life”.

Through his work, the ex St Clements College student covered parts of the District including Cratloe, Meelick, Parteen, Clonlara, Truagh, Shannon Banks, Westbury and Carraigh Midhe, “I would know all of them areas like the back of my hand and most of the people who live there,” he will put his geography to the test by attempting to rack up as many first preference votes as possible.

Retirement marks a new phase of an individual’s life but for Long the chapter of politics is one he describes as “a godsend”.

“When I was asked to do it it was right up my alley, this is a godsend for me, if I can get elected it is the type of work I love doing and all at a local level. I’ve been here nearly 20 years I know an awful lot of people around the area, they’ve become friends of mine and I look forward to being able to help them out with any issues they have”.

Register of property needed to tackle buying and selling of stolen goods – Councillor Mike McKee

T

HE following statement is issued by Peter Flannigan.

Sinn Féin Clare Publicity 07.05.19 Confirmation; contact Peter Flannigan Tel; 085 8430831 Register of property needed to tackle buying and selling of stolen goods – Councillor Mike McKee Councillor Mike McKee has called on the Government to create a National Property Register in a bid to tackle the sale of stolen goods and theft.

Cllr McKee said: “Theft of farm equipment has risen by 40% in recent times and almost €8 million worth of equipment and tools were stolen from construction sites in Ireland in a ten-month period last year.

“More than 14,000 bikes worth an estimated €2m have been stolen since 2016, with 83% stolen in Dublin, Cork, Limerick, and Galway. For instance in

Shannon recently a man’s trailer was stolen from outside his house in broad daylight showing that criminal elements feel that they can steal with impunity and sell on their stolen goods.

“Clearly the buying and selling of stolen goods needs to be made more difficult. A good first step would be the creation of a National Property Register. This would be the creation of a centralised system to catalogue property with a specific ID number for expensive items such as tools, bicycles and machinery etc.”

“This would make it easier for Gardaí to prove theft and prosecute those in possession of stolen property, and to reunite owners with their property.

This is a model which has been effectively utilised in other jurisdictions.

“We need a government that is serious about tackling crime in rural and urban areas.

18 ELECTIONS

THURSDAY, MAY 9 2019

l BUZZING: Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy with students from the Holy Family, Celina Sherlock, Chloe McMahon, MĂ­cheĂĄl Killeen and Darragh Fehilly at the apiary; (inset) beekeeper Ray Molloy explains how the bees make honey Photos by Martin Connolly

Cllr Colleran Molloy is the bee's knees...

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EW bee protection gear was unveiled last week as Mayor of Ennis, Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy returned to an apiary she helped establish in 2015.

Cllr Colleran Molloy visited the Banner Beekepers' apiary - or teaching beehive as new bee protection gear was in use by young Holy Family students.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Cllr Colleran Molloy noted the importance of the honey bee as a pollenator in how our society functions, while also insisting that sitting councillors must set an example when it comes to the protection of the environment and combating climate change.

The mayor quipped, "People say - why is she going on about the bees? But about 65 per cent of the food choices we have would not be there without pollenators.

"It feeds into the whole movement right now about climate change. Most recently in Kilkenny, the county council declared unanimously a biodiversity and climate change emergency. I'm actually, if I get reelected, going to have that as my first motion because I think people like myself are very late to the issue, and it's very important. I'll do whatever I can do as an elected person because it appears as if we're hitting a serious tipping point."

Back in 2015, Cllr Colleran Molloy was approached by a senior beekeeper, Raymond Molloy, to help establish an apiary on County Council lands. She then approached the County Council who "embraced the idea openly". With the help of Tommy Scott of Ennis Municipal District, a site was established on the Quin Rd. Cllr Colleran Molloy continued, "It happened very quickly once we identified the land, with a grant from the council helping to establish the apiary. So now, lots of honey has come from the bees and recently the Banner Beekeepers sought funding for children's bee suits."

Speaking about her visit to the apiary last week, she added, "It was a real eye opener for the Holy Family students and for me on the importance of protecting

these pollinators." The Banner Beekepers also give back to the community and with the help of Cllr Colleran Molloy, provided free jars of honey to service users at Clarecastle Daycare Centre at Christmas.

When questioned on how much one person can do to enact change in the environment, the Ballybeg resident added, "If you look at Greta Thurnberg, the 16-year-old Swedish girl. Look at what she's accomplished as a single girl - incredible. Her impact is now going to have an impact on me because my attention was caught by Eleanor Dagnell-Wise, an Ennis student who protested climate change in O'Connell Square after she was impacted by Greta. So I think if you take the attitude that we can't individually have an impact, we are really doomed. So we have to do the best we can. I'm only a local politician, but if you don't start locally, what hope do we have?"

Cllr Colleran Molloy added that the role of environmental protection will be high on her agenda if reelected on May 24. The qualified barrister, who also has a background in business having worked with De Beers Diamonds, said it's just another item to add to a councillor job spec.

"When you think about it, the role of a councillor has become very broad. A councillor has to have a willingness to learn and understand so much now. You go from being somebody that's going to fix the pothole, help get somebody a house, help get estates taken in charge, to then being involved in devising plans for tourism and economic development etc, so it's a very broad role. I've taught and pracitced the law here and in America, but my enthusiasm is very strong in continuing being a local representative."

Banner Beekeepers run a number of beginer beekeeper courses throughout the year and their annual open day this year is on bank holiday Monday, June 3 at 12pm in Michael Curran apiary in Clooney, Co. Clare. All are Welcome. More information at https://bannerbeekeepers.com.

THURSDAY, MAY 9 2019

Flynn calls for footpath upgrading STUART HOLLY

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editor@clareecho.ie

OUNCILLOR Johnny Flynn is calling for continued investment in Ennis footpath improvement to improve accessibility and mobility of the elderly and general public At next week’s Ennis Municipal District meeting, Cllr Johnny Flynn has submitted a request that the uneven and rough sections of footpaths at the Fairgreen (Tim Smythe Park) be resurfaced and extra public lighting be provided. Cllr Flynn explains that the improvements should be included in the actions to make Ennis an Age Friendly town.

The Clare County Council Age-Friendly Strategy for 2018-2022 aims to future-proof Clare to support the ever-growing population of people aged 55 years or older. One of the objectives of this strategy is to make Ennis an Age friendly town.

Cllr Johnny Flynn commented, “The

research presented in the Clare Age Friendly Strategy states that 25 per cent of the people aged 55 and over in Clare have walking difficulties. These improvements would make it easier for older people and people with disabilities to enjoy this recreation facility in the town. To support the needs of older people in Ennis, we need to address things such as social outlets, transport, health services and housing.”

The Clare strategy references to the World Health Organisation’s ‘Age Friendly Cities and Counties Programme’ which supports people of all ages to remain healthy, active in their community, stay connected to other people, live safely in their homes and be treated with respect.

“The definition of quality of life varies from person to person but it reflects their living conditions, environment, social interactions, leisure activities, education, employment, health economic security and safety. To be an effective local councillor, I focus my work on local issues that are inclusive of everyone.” Cllr Flynn concludes.

l HAPPY TO DIG IN: Cllr Johnny Flynn, pictured here at a Ballyalla Lake clean up last year, wants further improvements to paths in Ennis

Three independents enter election fray Three Independent candidates have joined the local election race with the deadline for candidates to register having now passed.

Kilrush’s Noreen Lynch has added her name to the ballot paper in the Kilrush local electoral area with Joe Floyd from Tulla doing likewise in the Killaloe Municipal District. André Hakizimana who contested the 2016 General Election and was eliminated on the first count has thrown his name into the mix in the Ennis Municipal District.

Prior to the trio declaring, Joseph Woulfe who rose to prominence courtesy of the Beef Plan Group announced his intentions to run as an Independent in the Kilrush local electoral area.

It now means there are 51 candidates declared across Co Clare for the local elections on May 24th. Those nominated so far may still withdraw with the lineup to be finalised after Tuesday.

ELECTIONS 19

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ELECTIONS

THURSDAY, MAY 9 2019

Hayes hits out at housing stats

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WO houses built in three years by Clare County Council and last place in the national league table is not good enough for Clare, says local election candidate Dermot Hayes.

Ennis independent candidate Dermot Hayes has slammed Clare County Council for building less houses than any other local authority in the last three

years.

Statistics from Department of Housing, Planning & Local Government reveal that out of 3,356 new houses built by councils across the country from 2016-2018, just two of these were in Clare.

In a statement to The Clare Echo, describing the analysis of the latest data from the Department as “truly shocking from a Clare perspective when subjected to comparative analysis with other counties”, Mr Hayes said, “Clare County Council is in last place, even behind Leitrim, whose population is less than 30 per cent of ours. Last place has never been good enough for the Banner and certainly not in such an important area. The current policy of Clare County Council is not working and new faces are needed to change it.”

Reliance on the Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) scheme and a lack of direct building has been central to Clare County Council’s approach according to Hayes, but the lack of a mixture of provision is being criticised by the Ennis candidate.

Hayes added that the “no-build approach” is not a feature of other counties and is an abdication of responsibility, affecting not just for tenants but also those wishing to purchase.

“The knock-on effects of this are felt at all points of the housing market – investors are buying more houses, renting them to the Council on the HAP scheme. This results in less housing availability in the private market and upward price pressure for young couples and others wanting to own their own homes. The only way to relieve the pressure is for Clare County Council to have a direct building programme.”

He continued, “In 2018, under the HAP scheme alone, Clare County Council subsidised 1,350 houses from private landlords - these houses are now not available for private renters and cannot be bought by people wanting to buy their own home - this money should be used to build council houses.”

Hayes ultimately claimed that a policy change is needed on Clare County Council, adding, “The cosy consensus between long-time councillors and the top table is doing a disservice to the Banner and our great town of Ennis. Voting for change is the only way to get change.”

ASK FOR ANGELA PROVES A SUCCESS

LAST November, the Ask for Angela Safety Initiative was launched by Cllr Mary Howard (FG) as Chairman of the Clare Joint Policing Committee. The Safety Initiative was a collaboration between Clare County Council, An Garda Siochana and the Clare Vintners Association.

Since November the initiative has been a fantastic success with many queries coming from other counties who wish to replicate the Clare model, according to the Ennis councillor, who added that the initiative has been such a success that dating websites in the West of Ireland have promoted Ennis as a safe place to go on a date or to make new friends.

The initiative started in Lincolnshire Council in 2014 as a result of a number of serious assaults on women who were on dates with men they met online. The safety initiative was rolled out in Waterford two years ago and there was an immediate positive effect with no assaults reported once the initiative was up and running.

Cllr Mary Howard explains that if you are on a date with someone and you feel uncomfortable or feel you may be in danger, you just ask a member of staff discreetly “is Angela here?” This is code for ‘I feel unsafe and wish to get away’.

The staff member will take the person to a safe place, call a taxi or a friend and ensure that the woman leaves on her own safely.

“I am delighted that this simple safety initiative has become a success. When we were younger you were introduced to your boy or girlfriend by a friend, work colleague or class mate, which was a reference of sorts. But the face of dating has changed completely and people now “meet” online” said Cllr Howard.

“I have spoken with other county councillors up and down the country who wish to introduce this initiative in their own area, plus I was delighted to hear that we are being promoted as a safe place to go on dates by dating websites.”

She added, “This week we launched our new ‘Ask For Angela’ window stickers that will be displayed outside each participating premises. It is important to acknowledge that a number of us worked together to get this initiative off the ground. Retired Chief Superintendent John Kerin, Leonard Cleary Director for Rural Development and Darragh McAllister of the Clare Vintners.

l MAKING DATING SAFER: Cllr Mary Howard pictured with publican Susan Taylor of Taylor’s Bar in Ennis, one of the participating locations of the Ask For Angela campaign Photo by John Mangan

ELECTIONS 21

THURSDAY, MAY 9 2019

MY PRIORITIES As we enter these elections Ennis & Clare face a new generation of problems and challenges.

With your help I want to play a progressive part in developing & promoting our County as a vibrant place we can all live in & enjoy.

FOR MORE INFO SEE MY WEBSITE

SEAMUS RYAN Candidate for the Ennis Electoral Area

Ennis Hospital & A&E: We need a Mid-West health service that is fit for purpose, from St. Josephs & Ennis General to the Regional in Limerick. I am committed to seeing the return of A&E to Ennis.

The post office field: I want to see the post office field preserved as a park or as a special area of conservation for the community, we have had enough building on flood plains in town.

Ennis as an economic hub for Clare: Ennis need to attract more large employers to town.

This will have a beneficial effect on the rates that small local business will have to pay. It can also act as a defence against rural decline by encouraging Clare people to live & work in the county.

Green & Public Transport: As Ennis grows we need to plan for a town that has accessible & interconnected walkways, cycleways & bus routes to make leaving the car at home easier.

Housing & Homelessness: There is an epidemic of hidden & not so hidden homelessness in Ennis with people simply too embarrassed to admit it in public. We need rent pressure zones immediately & major public home construction in the near term.

Our Town Centre: Ennis can be a vibrant & engaging place to shop, eat & enjoy yourself. This is being held back by Ennis lack of pedestrianisation. Making O’Connell St, Parnell St, Abbey St & the Height pedestrian would give Ennis a chance to show its full potential.

Ennis Multi-Story Car Park: Too many cars come through the centre of Ennis. A multi-storey car park built on the site of the old Boys National would take traffic from the centre of the town & aid with pedestrinisation

Tourism: Ennis needs a more visible connection as a gateway to the Wild Atlantic Way & the East Clare Blue Way. A County Bike scheme would encourage more high value green & eco-tourism using Ennis as its base.

Incentivised Recycling: I want to see a local recycling system that pays you for bringing back your used cans, bottles & plastics as a model for the nation.

New Schools: 40 children are bussed to Shannon, Kiladysart & Tulla to secondary school. I will work on the development of new schools in the area to meet the rising need & demand.

CONTACT SEAMUS: M: 087 9697981 seamus.ryan.clare @seamusmryan

E: seamusmryan@gmail.com W: seamusryan.ie seamusmryan

VOTE

Entertainment

BACK TO THE FUTURE FOR FLEADH NUA

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T’S back to the future this year for Fleadh Nua as the festival honours legends of the tradition while showcasing some of the best up and coming young musical talent.

Since its beginnings in Ennis in 1974, the Comhaltas festival of traditional music and culture has always highlighted the important role of younger musicians in the world of Irish music.

A concert dedicated to young musicians called ‘Aos Óg’ was organised and soon became a highlight of the Fleadh, becoming a firm favourite of the festival goers.

This year, a special event will honour those who have participated in the concert series over the years. ‘Aos Óg - A Retrospective’ at Glor on Friday 24th of May will feature, among others, Padraig Rynne, Siobhan Peoples, Clive Earley and the Naomh Eoin Céilí Band along with all the best of emerging young traditional music talent from Clare and around the country.

Glór is also the venue for a unique event celebrating three legends of Clare traditional music, Peter O’Loughlin, Paddy Canny and Paddy Murphy.

‘Friends of Note’ a tribute concert, marks the launch of a new album of the same name which features archive recordings of the three musicians recently discovered in the Comhaltas Archives.

They are accompanied on the album by another legend of the Clare tradition, Geraldine Cotter, herself a young musician at the time of the recordings.

The concert will see friends and family take to the stage along with special guests Ronan Browne, Eileen O’Brien, Geraldine Cotter, Eamon Cotter, Maeve Donnelly and Nicky and Anne McCauliffe. ‘Friends of Note’ the album will be launched at Glór on Sunday 26th of May at 6pm followed by the concert at 8pm.

Fast becoming famous for their own legendary performances, Ennis natives ‘Socks In The Frying Pan’ take to the stage at Glór on Saturday 25 of May for what promises to be a great hometown gig.

Other events not to be missed at Fleadh Nua 2019 include ‘Music From The Mists’ with Caitríona Ní Cheannabháin at Cois na hAbhna on Wednesday 22nd of May, ‘The Riches of Clare’ a series of free lunchtime concerts at The Sanctuary, Queens Hotel, Cupán Ceoil, daily Cafe music sessions around the town, Fionn Seisiún Workshops with Frank Custy at the Holy Family Hall, Ciorcal Comhrá sessions to brush up on your Gaeilge, Piping Heaven, Piping Hell with Blackie O’Connell and friends, Sean Nós Dancing Competitions at Cois na hAbhna, ‘Last Night as I lay Dreaming’ a film about Robbie McMahon of Spancilhill and ‘Cas Amhrán’, a nostalgic journey through the songs of your childhood with Emer Ni Flatharta.

Full details of all events including booking can be found at www.fleadhnua. com or follow the festival on facebook.

INFINITE MOMENTS: KEVIN LOWERY AND LOUISE LEONARD

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LÓR gallery reverberates with the echo of the wild Atlantic as it launches its new exhibition, featuring the work of seascape artist Kevin Lowery, coupled with the finely detailed work of printmaker Louise Leonard in an exhibition entitled Infinite Moments, running in the gallery until Wednesday 29 May. Painting and print collide with the work of these two artists who observe a moment in time and reflect that moment in their work in very different ways.

Dublin born Printmaker Louise Leonard works both on copper and lino and takes joy in the processes used to transform both. Copper’s receptive qualities, as it is subjected to endless dips into acid, results in finished plates from which multiple images can be pulled, echoing the artist’s voice over and over.

Kevin Lowery is a seascape painter living and working in Donegal.

Living by the sea all his life has

inspired Kevin to paint the rolling surf, merciless oceanic turmoil, and the ever-changing skies found along the coastline. Central to Lowery’s painting practice is the sea and the elusive quality of light – how it plays on water and atmosphere, transforming a seascape in seconds. He conveys that sense of time, as much as of place by capturing this fleeting magic in his work, and this exhibition features paintings of much of Clare’s coastline.

Both artists create work in different media, both which captures moments, holding them infinitely in time.

Infinite Moments is the result of two artists who were invited to exhibit with glór, having exhibited in glór’s 2017 open call group exhibition Halcyon Days.

From Friday 5th April to Wednesday 29th May │ Artists’ Talk on Saturday 11th May – All Welcome

C O N C E R T S

Music from the Mists

Caitríona Ní Cheannabháin Wed 22nd May @ 8.30pm Cois na hAbhna €10 To book call: 065 6824276

Aos Óg - A Retrospective Fri 24th May @ 8pm glór €15

Socks in the Frying Pan

Sat 25th May @ 8pm glór €20/€18

Friends of Note

Sun 26th May @ 8pm glór €20

Céilithe Singing Sessions Film Comórtas Rince Náisiúnta Workshops Concerts Pub Session Trail CD Launches Lunch Time Concerts Sean Nós Dancing Competitions

Booking

065 684 3103 glor.ie

Cois na hAbhna, Ennis, Co Clare Tel. +353 65 6824276

24

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

THURSDAY, MAY 2 2019

Ronan Scully

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK Author spreading the word of positivity

THE LIGHT THAT IS YOU IS HOPE

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love this prayer poem I pray, “Have you ever entered a room from darkness into a space where there was light, And noticed how quickly your eyes and minds adjusted to the wonderful sight. It was amazing how you saw things that you forgot was even there. You could easily accomplish your assignments without even a moment of despair. Then suddenly you transposed your direction and you moved from the light into the darkness. The adjustment was much more difficult then, so you paused before you embarked. Your walk with Our Lord is a comparison as you journeyed with him by your side. You can never reverse your direction as long as Jesus is your shepherd and guide. The road will not always be easy and sometimes the light seems dim. But if you can only keep your focus on “The Light” you are assured to be led by him and know the light that is You is Hope.”

Be Open Let me be honest with you as I write this thought for the week, which I always do after I have lit a candle and said a prayer for all who will read it. I am definitely not okay at times. At times I need help. I need support. I need care.

I need love. I need forgiveness. I need mercy. I need counseling. I need prayers. I need guidance. I need protection. I need care. At times I feel wrecked, lost, lonely, hurt, guilty, abused, bullied and abandoned. There I said it!! We should all say it and have a good honest to God chat about how we feel at times, At times I am not okay. I do get stressed, and I am a total worrier. I worry about my family. I worry about my friends. I worry about my work colleagues.

At times I am sad and somethimes confused. I can be distant. At times I worry that I may not have the resources or wisdom to help my family through the journey of life or do the work I need to do to help the poor especially in Africa.

Indeed there are times when I feel

alone albeit that I am surrounded by loving and caring people. I get upset about things in life, in the past and in our world, particularly injustice and inequality in society. So at times I am not okay. At times we are all not okay. And you know what. That’s okay. Because I know I won’t always feel this way.

As my good friend David says to me regularly during our weekly get together’s, “This too shall pass.” Giving myself time, I will figure things out and I will pray for guidance and protection not to hurt myself or others. I will discover or rediscover my purpose or focus in life. I will be okay. I am lucky because feeling sad or down is temporary for me, and while I am regularly stressed and worried, I know I will be okay. What I have found out as I approach my 53rd year, is that sometimes society isn’t too keen on shows of weakness. We are expected to be the picture of health, fitness, beauty and knowledge and in my case to raise loads of funding for charity. There is a lot of pressure on each of us. We must be strong and determined. We put pressure on ourselves to be perfect all the time although that pressure may come from others, a family member, a friend, a colleague, although they might not even know they are doing it, but you know it and you feel it. I personally find it exhausting trying to live up to that expectation. At times I don’t know why I keep trying. As well as that, I have always been self-critical. I beat myself up over tiny things, the smallest mistakes.

I have a large blackthorn stick as my friend David would say to me, that although it’s imaginary I beat myself up with it daily. I’ll over analyze conversations and events, wondering if I said the wrong thing and what the other person thinks of me now. I lose sleep over decisions even the one’s I made years ago, wondering what I could have done differently or said differently. I have let people down especially those closest to me at times. I often get wrapped up in

trying to be perfect, in trying to please everyone around me except those who mean the world to me, my wife, my family and close friends. I have to regularly remind myself that it’s a fruitless cause.

Perfection doesn’t exist although at times you try to convince yourself it does. I keep doing the bad I don’t want to do rather than doing the good I always want to do and try so hard each day to do. You can’t make everyone happy all the time. And I’m learning that that’s okay even if I have already spent more than 52 years in this world of ours on this journey called Life trying to do exactly that!! I am learning to forgive myself for not being perfect. And I’m learning to forgive myself for not always being okay. Because right now as I write this thought for the week, I’m not. But I also know that I have the ability to change that and that who I am makes a difference for good in our world.

Thought for the week As your thought for the week, remember, everything will be okay if we love and believe in ourselves, and understand that hope floats around us and when we can we should always spread that hope and love with others especially those who mean the most to us. I don’t know how it goes down for People who have died by suicide but if I am honest I at times really do!! I remember vividly recently trying to save a young girls life in the river corridor and how it breaks my heart daily that I and the amazing emergency workers and first responders couldn’t. It seems people who do die by suicide get hit by a heavy downpour or cyclone of worry and then everything becomes dark and it’s winter all the time. Maybe they were keeping up with their positive techniques to make things better and maybe then they weren’t. Sometimes, positive techniques and pushing forward isn’t enough anyway. It’s hard to tell from the outside, but it’s important to understand what it’s like from the inside and that’s

what I am trying to explain from my life perspective with all its ups and downs and good things and abusive things happening to me. I firmly believe that understanding, love, mercy and compassion have to be the base of effective action.

It’s important to understand what depression and suffering from mental health illness is, how it feels, what it’s like to live with it, so you can help people both on an individual basis and a policy basis. I’m not putting heavy philosophy out there to make you’re reading this thought for the week make you sad. I know it feels sad and worrying to read it, and realistically it can be unpleasant to be around it, that’s why people pull away. I don’t have a message for people with depression like “keep pushing on” or “it will be alright tomorrow”. Of course you’re going to keep pushing on as I try to do the best I can and hoping it will be alright tomorrow until you physically or emotionally or spiritually can’t, because who wants it all to end? I know what the stakes are. My message to everyone else is let’s start helping one another rather than judging one another, let’s care for one another and hopefully leave no one behind or lost. Let’s petition all county and city councilors and TD’s to strive to change and do

more for people affected by mental health problems. Depression and Mental Health illnesses are in someway like it’s raining all the time and sometimes extremely heavy. And like the weather, it is a mindless process, powerful and unpredictable with great potential for harm. But like climate change, that doesn’t mean we are helpless.

If we want to stop losing so many people and especially young people to this disease, it will require action at every level and especially at government and policy level. As I said this week is as good a week to pick a good place to start your “walk and talk” journey through life!! Get out there if you can and be well and take care of one another!!! Also know that the best of help can be got from contacting some of Ireland’s best charities and organisations in the Samaritans, Pieta House, Aware, Jigsaw, St. Vincent de Paul, your local GP’s, your local religious, Chaplain’s, HSE groups and various qualified counsellors. Also, Please walk with Pieta House Charities, Darkness into Light in an 5km Walk in or close to your area nationwide on May 11th for #darknessintolight2019, you can register at www.darknessintolight. ie Pieta House, Preventing Suicide and Self Harm. Keep as well as you can everyone!

THURSDAY, MAY 9 2019

Community EAST CLARE MOUNTSHANNON ARTS FESTIVAL Mountshannon Art Festival returns this June Bank Holiday (May 30th to June 3rd) with a Line-up of Fantastic Events.

Inspired by this year’s theme “ROOTS AND WINGS”, the festival features all facets of the arts including music, theatre, visual art, sculptures, films, poetry, literature, workshops, puppets, talks, walks, family fun and a dog show that is bigger and even better than last year! There is something for everybody.

Event details can be found on www.mountshannonarts.net.

This year’s musical highlights will include Dublin based band, Slow Moving Clouds. They bring together roots in the Irish and Nordic folk traditions, with post-punk drones, baroque strings, and soaring falsetto vocals creating an immersive, atmospheric sound unlike anything you’ve heard before.

CoCo and the Butterfields - “folk-hewn pop, with gliding guitars and a strident vocal” – Clash Music. Colourful, and energetic this band from the south of England, will have you dancing the night away.

The Higglers, from the hills of Clare offer old-time, pre-bluegrass, boogie music.

We also welcome The Howling Hecate, a Cork based duo formed by Americana folk artists Leah Sohotra and Hanora George. Take this opportunity to catch them, while they are still relatively unknown.

Once again, drama enthusiasts will be satisfied with three plays!

Fishamble’s, The Humors of Bandon by Margaret McAuliffe is a terrific one woman show. We look forward to a comic jaunt through James Joyce’s famous novel in ‘Strolling through Ulysses’ written and performed by Robert Gogan and a rehearsed reading of Agnes of God by our local WayWord Theatre Company.

The children’s programme is all about fun, and will include puppets, arts and crafts workshops, face painting, fairy trail and fairy house building, water activities, inflatables, plus many other activities throughout the weekend.

This year a gathering of vintage barges will be basking in Mountshannon harbour - a floating fringe festival that will deliver a cargo of poetry, writing, and performance. The barges will host a poetry - writing workshop with Angela T Carr and a writing workshop with Kevin McDermott. There will also be a special live broadcast of Scariff Bay Community Radio’s much loved programme, “A Flow of Words”.

For more information, visit wwww.mountshannonarts.net or find us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Brochures will be found in shops and establishments in the area.

NORTH CLARE IRELAND AND POST BREXIT EUROPE IN ENNISTYMON North Clare Labour Party are delighted to announce a meeting on Friday 17th May 2019 @ 8.30 pm to discuss “Ireland and Post Brexit Europe” at the Falls Hotel, Ennistymon.

The guest speaker will be Mr Manuel Cortes the General Secretary of the T.S.S.A. trade union. Brexit is the subject of the moment.

Which will effect every citizen in the European Union and more particular Irish citizens and economy.

Mr Cortes has been a lifelong rights campaigner and now campaigns for his union members throughout Britain and Ireland.

In addition he is a prominent member of the British Labour Party.

He lobbies for Britain to remain in the European Union. So the meeting on Friday 17th MAY should be a lively occasion, which is open to the public and all are welcome.

COMMUNITY 25 CONTACT NEWSDESK

065 671 9021 news@clareecho.ie

GORT

H.E.A.R.T OF GORT FESTIVAL 2019 Burren Lowlands CLG in partnership with ICOMOS Ireland, Galway 2020 and Galway County Council, is working with the local community to premiere a festival in Gort Town from 17th to 18th May. Celebrating the Heritage, Environment, Architecture, River and Traditions, the H.E.A.R.T. of Gort Festival is part of the Galway 2020 Small Towns/Big Ideas initiative.

The event will showcase the rich multicultural vibe that defines the Gort area. The fun begins with a pre-festival “Art & Craft Party” Saturday 11th May with Shona MacGillivray to create willow hearts. A modest charge of €20 for a family of three gives participants a lasting memory of the festival.

The evening of 17th May opens in Canon Quinn Park with guests and music. From traditional tunes to the Burren Bandits, there will be sounds to please! The entertainment continues with Guaire Magazine’s Writers Panel to discuss the theme of “Place” in their own works at the Lady Gregory Hotel.

The Gort Vibes Cinema Club hosts the film “Town of Strangers” in the Town Hall, and a story-telling session in O’Grady’s Pub rounds out the night.

Saturday morning kicks off with a Visual Arts Exhibition in locations along Boland’s Lane. A Landscape Cinematography display by David Murray will be on view in the Town Hall. A food and crafts village in the Square, and Historic Buildings Trail Tours (registration available through EventBrite) will fill the town. Harvest Studios will host a story telling session for very young children, while Canon Quinn Park has Yourman’s Puppets for children of all ages to enjoy.

Family fun continues with circus skills for kids in the park, a stage with continuous music, and demonstrations on practicing food sustainability and climate action. A guided River Walk is scheduled to begin at 1:30 pm to display the plans for the town’s latest amenity. Guaire Magazine will have Debbie Thomas return to present another Children’s Writing Workshop, suitable for ages 9 to 12, in the Town Library from 3 to 4 pm (EventBrite registration required).

Potential volunteers, please contact www.volunteergalway.ie – HEART of Gort Festival or come to the Town Hall 11th May at 7:30 pm to sign up.

26

AROUND THE COUNTY

THURSDAY, MAY 9 2018

IN THE THROWS OF IT: Street dancing to the music of The Kilfenora Ceili Band at the Kilfenora Traditional Music Festival

Photo by Martin Connolly

KILFENORA

NEWMARKET

KILFENORA FESTIVE FUN: Local supporters, Aine O’Brien and her Daughter Malia from Kilfenora. Photo by Martin Connolly

IT’S A DOG’S LIFE: Eileen Moroney from Spanish Point with her dog Winston winning 1st prize in the Terrier class

Photo by Michael O’Brien

OPINION/ADVICE 27

THURSDAY, MAY 9 2019

Michael O’Doherty’s exam stress solutions

Eoin Neylon

An inside look at Clare’s political spectrum

What’s involved in running for election?

P

OLITICS is a particular form of insanity – or so my mother once said to me.

Reviewing the 15 years I’ve spent in it at various levels, I can’t help but see her point. So, you would think that after all this time I’d have more sense than to hand in nomination papers for local elections last weekend at Dublin City Council offices. I’m just one of over two thousand such individuals which will do likewise ahead of local elections on May 24th.

Each of us hoping to win the people’s trust and one of the 949 local authority seats that currently exist in the state. The odds, particularly for first time candidates, are not in our favour. So why do people do it and what does it take to get elected?

The reasons behind people choosing to go before the people are varied but often fit into several pigeon holes. Some people have a local issue they’re vexed about that they want to solve. Others want to bring what they feel is a new approach to local Government. Some people might have grand ambitions and see local Government as a stepping stone. There will inevitably be the odd person who just likes the notoriety of seeing their face on election posters up lampposts for a month. By in large though, the people who bravely put themselves forward all want one thing; for our local community to be that bit better.

The nomination process is very straight forward.

For party candidates, they get a certificate of affiliation from their party, once selected, and they hand this in with their nomination form. For independents, they must put forward the €100 despite themselves. An appointment with county hall is made for during the few days that nominations are

open and then, assuming all the forms are in order, with a swish of a pen, the candidate is duly nominated. No fuss, no big fanfare. Just local democracy at work in its typical bureaucratic manner. Of course, by the time this all happens, most candidates will have been knocking on doors for weeks if not months. In fact, the election posters appear about a week before nominations are even accepted. For most first-time candidates and councillors with a fulltime job, finding the time to canvass is the hardest part. Nevertheless, it is by far the most lucrative in securing the vote.

I’ve knocked doors for many other people throughout the past decade and a half but when you are the candidate, it’s a vastly different experience.

Suddenly it’s your message, you’re the person people want to talk to, not your helpers. It’s up to you to get to as many open doors as you can but one thing is universal; getting to meet ever voter or ever getting to every door is an impossibility. The areas are too vast and population too high for one person to meet everyone over the course of a short few months. I often hear people complain that they didn’t meet candidate X or only got a leaflet from candidate Y. For those who think that I challenge you to simply try to knock in and meet all your neighbours over the course of a full week. Most people will struggle massively to achieve that. Now, try do that for areas that take in a quarter the population of the county! Now think that, after a hard day’s work, getting home, turned around and out again may leave candidates with just an hour or 2 tops to canvass any evening. It’s much easier for full time politicians as they can spend the day canvassing at their leisure, yet still make it to

all the community meetings as well.

There’s also the expense of the campaign to contend with. Contrary to popular myth, political parties do not cover the cost of election campaigns. The leaflets, posters, adverts, etc you see during this month all came out of the pocket of candidates themselves, or those of their supporters should they be luckily enough to have friends or family with a few bob to give them. The advantage in being with a political party is the economy of scale. When you have a dozen candidate from one party in the county going to one printer for their leaflets, they can negotiate a cheaper rate per leaflet than a single independent candidate could. The same goes for posters.

One thing that’s being reported this time around from people of all parties and none is the apparent increased apathy people have towards these elections. It’s pertinent to remember though, if you don’t vote, you’ve no right to complain about the result. Moaning about politics and politicians from the bar stool or on Twitter is like being in a rocking chair; it gives you something to do but achieves nothing. There’s only one way to influence the result and that’s to take yourself the short distance to the polling station on May 24th. Make sure to visit www.checktheregister.ie to see you are registered and if not, get an RFA2 form to the County Council by the May 7th deadline. The power is in your hands but you only get the say on who’s in local government every 5 years. It’s your voice. Use it or lose it for half a decade. The choice really is yours and thanks to the bravery of dozen of fellow county people, the Banner is spoilt for choice this year.

From diet to sleep, a few key points to help you through stressful weeks

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T’S that time of the year again when students, parents and teachers begin to feel nervous and stressed because its exam time. Huge expectations and a desire to achieve, places huge stress on everyone and failure is not even contemplated.

A certain amount of stress or tension probably helps you perform to the best of your ability but if you become distressed it will lead to lots of problems affecting your ability to function.

Parents also push their children to achieve certain standards which in turn may put too much pressure on them and leads only to illness, poor concentration, lack of focus affecting their retention causing a memory block resulting in them not achieving their goal.

Parents and students are always looking for the edge, the skills that can enable them to cope better and prepare better. Most people leave it all until the last minute and by doing this limit their ability to retain information, focus and concentrate properly thereby creating panic and anxiety resulting in poor performance and possible failure. So as the saying goes if you fail to prepare, prepare to fail.

Eat for energy, concentration and focus Eat three meals a day and do not skip breakfast: Breakfast is your first focus – kick start your day and fuel your brain. Skipping breakfast or the wrong breakfast choices can lead to an inability to concentrate, low energy levels and irritability.

Good breakfast options include eggs, salmon, green smoothies with added natural protein from milled chia or flax seed, avocado etc.

Snack smart - avoid sugar-loaded treats and instead go for energy-sustaining options such as some fruit with nuts or seeds, an oatcake nut butter, hummus or paté.

Avoid stimulants including alcohol, it is best to limit caffeine intake after midday.

Help your brain stay healthy, sharp and vibrant • Eat healthy fats - Your brain needs fat in particular omega 3 fats (found mainly in oily fish but also in nuts and seeds in particular walnuts, flax, chia and pumpkin seeds).

• Eat foods which are rich in minerals. Minerals are needed for our brains (and bodies!) to work. A wholefood diet with added Himalayan / sea salt and seaweed to your diet is an easy and excellent way to increase your mineral intake.

• Eat good quality protein for better serotonin and melatonin) • Eat lots of vegetables. Higher intake of vegetables and berries are strongly associated with having better concentration and memory.

• B Vitamins deserve a special mention and they help convert food into energy, help you stay energised throughout the day, balancing mood and relieving stress. They are crucial for mental clarity and focus, support the immune system and prevent headaches and migraines. Other good sources of B Vitamins include seeds, fruit, beans, meat, wholegrains, brown rice, nuts, millet, eggs.

Think zinc – zinc is a very important mineral when it comes to learning and concentration. It is found in fish, shellfish, eggs, nuts, seeds and meat and it can be helpful to supplement with some zinc at this time.

Helpful nutrients to supplement a good wholefood diet include: Natural multi-vitamins such as spirulina or wheatgrass; Omega-3 fats; Vitamin C; Zinc; B-vitamins – ensure it is a B formula which contains active forms of B vitamins; L.thenine- helps cope with anxiety; A good probiotic.

Stay well hydrated Choose your drinks. Good choices include water with a pinch of Himalayan salt and some lemon, coconut water, herbal teas and green tea (the “brainy beverage”). Reduce your dependence on stimulants such as tea, coffee, soda drinks and energy drinks.

Get a good night’s sleep Relaxing activities and minimizing screen-time in the hours before bed help to reduce stress levels and get your body into a calm state ready for sleeping.

Turn off mobile phones and wi-fi connections at night and ensure your bedroom is quiet and dark. Create a soothing bedtime routine - such as listening to relaxing music and enjoying a warm bath with lavender oil. Minimise social media activity.

Emotional Stress Emotional stress is the real problem during exam times because fear and doubt set in and you start questioning your ability to succeed. Will I get enough points to get the course I want, what will my friends and family think, are just some concerns. You have to deal with this in a positive way because it drains your energy and you don’t want that.

Talk to friends or family if anything concerns you. Seek professional help if necessary.

Get plenty of fresh air by taking walks by the beach or in wooded areas to relieve stress.

Abdominal breathing Practicing abdominal breathing even just for 10 minutes will be of great benefit to you and this is done by 1. Find a quite relaxed place with some nice relaxing music in the background. Sit or lay down and breathe in slowly through the nose raising your abdomen then breathe out slowly through the nose relaxing your abdomen.

2. While doing this imagine a river of energy flowing through your body washing away all of your fear, worry and stress from your body.

3. The only thoughts I want you to have while practicing this is - I know I will be successful and achieve my goal, I am prepared and ready. Be crystal clear.

28 COLUMNISTS

REELING IN THE YEARS

with Cian O’Broin

THURSDAY, MAY 9 2019

Miriam O’Donohoe Join Miriam on her history tours to hidden locations of Clare

1981 H T HIS year we look at the highly anticipated construction of the industrial powerhouse of Moneypoint in 1981, as well as the finishing touches being put to the infamous Eamon De Valera statue located just outside the Ennis courthouse. Finally, we unearth the deep connection between the nation of France and Irish language and culture, as brought to the attention of the world by the Merriman Summer School in Ennistymon.

MONEYPOINT CHIMNEY The towering eminence of Moneypoint factory is a difficult one to miss, as you twist and turn your way to the quiet tides of Kilkee. But how did it get there and when? Dubbed as one of the largest capital projects to ever grace the island, with total costs incurred ranging in the €700m zone. The venture started as a means of combatting increasing oil prices. At the time, Ireland relied heavily on importing oil as its primary energy source. A viable alternative fronted the agenda. Together with the electricity supply board, the construction of Moneypoint was commissioned between 1979 to 1987.

The trademark twin chimneys tower gracefully over the Shannon Estuary.

These chimneys acquired the accolade of tallest free-standing structures in Ireland. Their origins date back to the year 1981 when the first chimney was built. The national media proclaimed the construction a feat in modern civil engineering and an air of hysteria hovered above the West-Clare site.

This chimney towered 731 feet above the ground and 3100 cubic metres of concrete were put to use. The physical labour put into the project was humbling, with forty-nine men working day and night for fifty-three consecutive days in order to put the finishing touches to the chimney. An inaugural ceremony was hosted after its completion, with the traditional raising of the tri-colour. The blueprint prided itself in combatting the tempestuous winds of the Shannon Estuary. The beauty of hindsight glorifies its robust structure. Yet in all its magnificence and innovation in the early eighties, the Moneypoint of today does more harm than good. The conscientious observer sees it for what it is. The largest contributor of greenhouse gases in the country. Much work has gone into the closure of the site in order to combat this pollution, but with unfortunate job uncertainty to boot.

IN HONOUR OF DEV

Next, we take a step back from the West for the time being to a very central point in County Clare. Our journey lands outside the courthouse in Ennis, where in 1981 a statue in honour of Eamon De Valera was unveiled to the public. Appraised as his adopted hometown, we recall De Valera’s adoration for the people of Clare.

The ceremony began in the Ennis Cathedral with mass being held by Dr. Michael Harty, the Bishop of Killaloe. A parade swept the street of Ennis and circled its way back to the site of the shiny, brand new statue.

The scene was fraught with political bigwigs, with the unveiling of the statue conducted by Charles Haughey. Also in attendance was MEP Sile de Valera, honouring the memory of her grandfather. There was a large Fianna Fail presence at the unveiling as party members flocked to pay their respects to their founding member. The list included Taoiseach Jack Lynch, Gerry Collins and Ray Burke.

Fianna Fail met the costs of the statue after a local committee in Clare commissioned the piece, raising 15,000 pounds towards it and invoicing a 1,000-pound levy to be met by each Fianna Fail constituency to finalise the cost. The sculpture was made by Limerick man Jim Connolly and stands over eight feet tall. Its location lies between Edmund Rice College and the Ennis Courthouse. A central resting place for a powerful political leader in our history.

PARLEZ-VOUS FRANCAIS? What does the craic in West Clare pubs and the nation of France have in common? No this isn’t from the inside of a Christmas cracker. In 1981 in Ennistymon, there was plenty of relevance between the two. ‘Ireland and France’ was the theme that year at the Merriman Summer School in Ennistymon. This seasonal school was evinced in 1968 as a celebration of all things Irish be it language, culture or customs. Director Bob Collins spoke about the relationship between Ireland and France, with lectures taking place throughout the day in order to further these beliefs. Hosted at the fabulous Falls Hotel, poet John Montague enamoured his audience with an excerpt from ‘The Hag of Beara’. A record number of attendees was noted at the time.

That’s all for this week folks, see you back here next week as we make do of what happened in 1982.

When a Golden Eagle was king of the Burren I ALL,

I think little children are amazing, don’t they bring out the child in you. My little grandson Mason is going to be seven this July and is just into everything, they don’t call these the informative years for nothing. He never stops asking questions, for example last week he asked, Nana Miriam, “when are you bringing me to see the fairies in the Burren?"

I must have briefly mentioned this at some stage, perhaps at story time however there was no going back now, so we decided on a day, packed a picnic and off we went - our destination being Cahercommaun ring fort.

The fort itself is a 20 minute walk from the road, where you travel a fairy path. This path is surrounded by hills, thorn bushes and blessed wells. A wonderful landscape where one can open their mind to endless possibilities, we looked for fairy doors, while trying to identify the different varieties of flowers which created a tapestry of colour on the natural rock garden either side of the track, we also listened to the numerous species of songbird while chasing butterflies which took us up the steep hill onto the very heartland of the fairies.

Finally the ring fort was in sight. This is where fairies actually lived, a stone built circular enclosure constructed with pure limestone; inside were dividing stone walls which may suggest other dwellings leading to underground caves. Having limited information, I described them as being magical beings who look quite like us but have special wings and powers and are 8 inches tall. They love shiny things, like buttons or jewellery, but not money ! That’s why at night they give it away to boys and girls in return for their teeth. Fairies bring good luck wherever they go, except to people who interfere with their home. They went to fairy school where they graduated, having learnt a great talent for granting wishes. Mason was fascinated with this knowledge. Just as we were about to say good bye to the fairies and make our wish,I spotted a local farmer by the

l INTERESTING: Cahercommaun Ringfort and the little people

name of Mick. We got talking, and it turned out he knew much more about the fairies than I did. He advised us that this was a very magical place.

People in the old days truly believed that the spell working of the little people were so powerful that they affected almost every aspects of rural life. I’ll give you an example, long ago before the advent of running water in homes, it was the custom to source it from the well and when the woman of the house had completed her chores she would throw the dirty water out the door. Before doing this, she would give a shout to warn any little people, just for fear they would be passing. People were also afraid of the Banshees, leprechaun and the most dreaded of all, the Pooka as they could either help or hinder communities. It was also understood that fairies inhabited most of the surviving ringforts dotted around the Burren and that the vexation of the small people would be very unpleasant, such as demolishing a fairy path, or even disturbing a hawthorn bush. It was a meeting place and also produced beautiful nutritious fruit which the fairies loved, plus the light branches were used to make fairy wands.

If one was to interfere with either of these there would be a heavy penalty. There was an instance [remarked Mike] where people that interfered were known to suffer, hardship and even death .

There were also Piseogs [an evil spell cast by bad fairies], and more often than not, it may not even be the fairy, it could

very well be a bad neighbour who held a grudge and it was mostly carried out by envious women, would you believe!?

Back then people believed that there was only a certain amount of good luck to go around, therefore they used to cast Piseogs [pronounced pishroge] on their neighbour, thereby taking away their luck to add to their own.

Farmers around here still have links to the past as regards pastoral tradition, where each year around the festival of Samhain [Halloween] cattle are moved from one grazing ground to another, they are first blesses by the local priest who shakes holy water on them to ward off bad luck.

"Isn’t it funny now, that we should meet here on this May eve, as it is known in this neighbourhood as the most dreadful night of the year, when fairies are most active. You do know Mason that they come out after sunset, so if I were you now, I'd be heading home to my leaba."

We thanked Mick and before we parted, he told us that the little people didn’t always inhabit this particular fort. When questioned, he sighed, "Shure that’s for another day now, I’ll meet ye again." With that in mind we said our goodbyes.

I do hope you can join me next time when I get to meet Mick, and discover what or who lived in Cahercommaun fort before it was inhabited by the Burren fairies. Until next time so,.Bye for now.

PS: As with all historical sites, take nothing but memories, leave nothing but footprints.

AROUND THE COUNTY 29

THURSDAY, MAY 9 2018

COROFIN

NEWMARKET ON FERGUS

l SHOW OF STRENGTH: Briain De Mairis at the stone throwing in the Festival of Finn

Photo by Michael O’Brien

l RUFF STUFF: James McNamara in the best gromed dog section being presented with his rosette, from Tiernan O’Neill Photo by Michael O’Brien

NEWMARKET

NEWMARKET HIGH AND MIGHTY: Action from the Newmarket on Fergus Agricultural Show last weekend Photo by Michael O’Brien

FESTIVE FUN: Patrick Hickey from Limerick enjoying his ice cream at Newmarket Photo by Michael O’Brien

Farming

FARMERS’ KEY ROLE IN CLIMATE CHANGE STUART HOLLY

Ms Clune with local election candidate Ger O’Halloran

F

news@clareecho.ie

ARMERS play a key role in tackling climate change, protecting the environment and preserving landscapes and biodiversity. This is according to Ireland South MEP Deirdre Clune.

The proposed revision of CAP which was recently agreed by the European Parliament, sets out high ambitions on environmental and climate change measures.

MEP Clune said: “One of the most obvious specific objectives of the next CAP is to provide safe food which is produced in a sustainable manner, increase competitiveness and ensure a viable income for farmers. But the CAP is also focused on taking action to mitigate climate change, preserving our landscapes and biodiver-

sity and in developing sustainable resource management.

“I believe that farmers must be financially supported for these measures with new, additional payments. They should not be ex-

pected to engage in these measures from their existing payments.

“Farmers are very much part of the solution when it comes to protecting our environment,” added Ms Clune.

ENNIS MART GLAS payments

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HE Minister for Agriculture, Michael Creed T.D., has announced today that over €25m in GLAS balancing payments to over 42,000 farmers in the GLAS scheme will commence this week. The balancing payment represents the final 15% of the 2018 payment and completes the total payment for GLAS actions undertaken last year. This payment rate is 50% higher than last year in terms of applicants paid.

Commenting on the payments the Minister said; “I am delighted to be commencing these GLAS balancing payments a fortnight earlier than expected to over 42,000 farmers. This will be a significant cashflow assistance to those farmers, particularly suckler farmers who are the majority of GLAS participants”.

The Minister added “This payment of over €42m brings to almost €600m the total payments made to date in respect of GLAS scheme.”

TUESDAY, MAY 7 850 cattle on offer which included a larger than expected entry of calves with 220 of these about and they meet a good trade overall.

Continental calves topped out at €470. Friesian bull calves made €60 to €180. Whitehead calves were making to €280. Pairs in the suckler ring peaked at €2,200 with a few lots exceeding €2,000. Trade for the quality weanlings in both bulls and heifers was very strong yet again. A large entry of 400 sheep saw a complete clearance, with Spring lambs hitting €135 but generally making €122 to €130.

Cull ewes made to €129. Ewes with lambs at foot made to €220.

WEANLING BULLS: 4 LIM 274kgs - €895 - €3.27/kg 1 CH 375kgs - €1,080 - €2.86/kg 2 CHX 250kgs - €830 - €3.32/kg 2 LMX 402kgs - €1,060 - €2.63/kg 1 BBX 270kgs - €800 - €2.96/kg 4 AAX 540kgs - €1,000 - €1.85/kg 2 LMX 387kgs - €1,090 - €2.81/kg 1 CH 400kgs - €1,070 - €2.67/kg WEANLING HEIFERS: 1 LIM 295kgs - €915 - €3.11/kg 1 CH 295kgs - €895 - €3.03/kg 2 CHX 370kgs - €1,110 - €3.00/kg 1 CH 450kgs - €1,200 - €2.67/kg 1 PTX 390kgs - €1,020 - €2.62/kg 5 LIM 401kgs - €1,000 - €2.49/kg 1 CH 340kgs - €1,000 - €2.94/kg 2 CH 287kgs - €810 - €2.82/kg

BUSINESS

THURSDAY, MAY 9 2019

BUSINESS

31

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

Clare LEO creates 752 net jobs

L

OCAL Enterprise Office Clare has made a significant impact locally in its first five years with the creation of 752 net jobs locally, €3.4m in funds approved and over 4,000 people trained.

The figures were announced by Heather Humphreys T.D., Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation and Pat Breen T.D., Minister for Trade, Employment, Business, EU Digital Single Market and Data Protection at an event in Russborough House, Wicklow, celebrating 5 Years of the Local Enterprise Offices.

Since the Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) were established in 2014 they have supported the creation of over 18,600 jobs nationwide with 144,830 entrepreneurs and business people trained in a range of skills over the five years. They also have distributed €81.5million worth of direct financial assistance to small businesses and entrepreneurs, stimulating job creation in communities across Ireland.

Minister Pat Breen, T.D., said, “Small businesses are the heartbeat of the Irish economy and they make a huge impact to local economies across the country. The Local Enterprise Offices have become the most important resource for any entrepreneur or small business looking for support or training. With over 144,000 trained and 40,000 receiving specialist mentoring, the LEOs are providing these businesses with the skills and knowledge to start and grow, to create jobs and generate significant revenue for the Irish economy.”

Established in 2014 by the Dept of Business, Enterprise and Innovation, the 31 Local Enterprise Offices nationwide are operated in a partnership between Enterprise Ireland and the Local Authorities. Devised as a “first stop shop” for those looking to start a business or for small businesses looking for support, the Local Enterprise Offices are now a significant source of job creation.

Padraic McElwee, Head of Enterprise, Local Enterprise Office Clare, said; “The figures really do speak for themselves when you look across the 5 years of the Local Enterprise Offices. Clare County Council, through Local Enterprise Office Clare, has played a key role in fostering entrepreneurship in the area and is very much at the fulcrum of the local business community. That positioning has come through trust, expertise and the ability to help businesses over the toughest of hurdles because we have the resources to do so.

Looking to the future, we are at the forefront of microenterprise and we have an opportunity to help shape policy and supports that we believe will only increase these impressive figures in the next 5 years and give our entrepreneurs and small businesses an even greater advantage in the market.”

For more visit localenterprise.ie/clare.

32 BUSINESS

THURSDAY, MAY 9 2019

BUSINESS

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

Evening BA relaunches at UL next term

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HE evening BA in History, Politics, Sociology, Literature and Law relaunches this September at the University of Limerick.

Students choose three of the five subjects on offer.

Course Director Dr Martin Power explained, “The programme has been specifically redesigned to meet the needs of adult learners and where possible lecturers will deliver the modules via a combination of face-to-face teaching at UL and online lectures, tutorials and mobile learning meth-

odologies, which are delivered by Blended Learning techniques”.

As a result, students can take a programme that more closely meets their educational needs and lifestyle choices.

The academic aims of the programme are to encourage evaluation of Irish society in a wider European context, including historical development and perspectives, political institutions and ideology, sociological perspectives on socio-economic change, and Irish Law and its application. The programme also develops critical skills in the

reading and understanding of English literature.

Dr Power added that “past graduates of the programme now have careers in the Public Service, European and International Agencies, Journalism, Public Relations, and Teaching.

Students on the new programme who complete 8 law modules can progress to do the LLB Graduate Entry at UL, which is a recognised law degree for the purpose of later pursuing a professional legal qualification”.

Dr Power welcomes applications for the programme, adding that “selection for places on the course is based on people’s ability to commit to, complete and benefit from the course as demonstrated by their application and interview”.

Queries in relation to applying can be submitted to cpe@ul.ie.

Faculty of Arts Humanities and Social Sciences

Bachelor of Arts (Evening) Select from the subjects: History, Politics, Sociology, Law or Literature NQF Level 8, 4 Years, Part time, Online/Blended Learning Applications now Open!

This 4 year Bachelor Degree programme is delivered via. blended learning so is ideal for students wishing to study these subjects outside of the traditional daytime mode.

Option to graduate with a diploma after two years or an honours degree after four years also makes this an attractive programme.

Applications Open – Apply on-line https://www.ul.ie/cpe/ Start Date – September 2019 Contact us for more information email cpe@ul.ie or phone +353 61 202530

l NEW OFFERING: The UL evening course has been specifically redesigned to meet the needs of the adult learners

Email: cpe@ul.ie Website: www.ul.ie/cpe Telephone +353 61 202530

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THURSDAY, MAY 9 2019

RECRUIT

Best Young entrepreneurs set for regional finals

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LARE’S Best Young Entrepreneurs for 2019 and €50,000 investment fund winners were announced at an awards ceremony hosted by Local Enterprise Office Clare last night. As part of a nationwide search launched by Minister Heather Humphreys and Minister Pat Breen to find Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneurs (IBYE) for 2019, the six winners and runners-up were chosen from 16 local finalists and will now share a €50,000 investment fund.

IBYE, now in its fifth year, is a nationwide youth enterprise initiative to help 18-to-35 year olds with an innovative business idea, new start-up or established business. In 2019, 1,644 entrepreneurs entered IBYE, which is an initiative of the Department of Business, Enterprise and Innovation and supported by Enterprise Ireland and local authorities.

The county final was hosted by Padraic McElwee, Head of Enterprise and Cathaoirleach Michael Begley. Junior Minister Pat Breen TD was on hand to present awards.

The ‘Best New Idea’ category, with a €7,000 investment fund, was won by Michelle Tierney (32) founder of SymPhysis Medical from Sixmilebridge. SymPhysis Medical is an innovative medical device for treating cancer patients suffering from fluid build-up around the lung and aims to improve quality of life and reduce healthcare costs. The runner-up award and €3,000 investment fund went to James Moriarty (28) of ProActive Stats from Quin.

The winner of the ‘Best Start-Up Business’ category and the €15,000 investment fund was Ciara McGuane (34), founder of Rahoo.ie from Kilnamona. Rahoo.ie is an education-technology company which makes professional development accessible for teachers – anytime, anywhere. The runner-up in this category, collecting a €5,000 investment fund, was Rowena Sheen, aged 34, of Rowena Sheen Jewellery from Ennistymon.

Meanwhile, the title of ‘Best Established Business’, with an investment fund of €15,000, went to Conor Murray (24), founder of Kilkee Forge, metal designers and visual artists working from a studio and forge in Kilkee. The runner-up, scooping €5,000, was Ciara Hayes (33) of Trifecta Hair & Beauty. Murray (pictured) also won ‘Best Young Entrepreneur’ for Clare.

Padraic McElwee, Head of Enterprise with Local Enterprise Office Clare said: “In 2019, Local Enterprise Office Clare supported 16 young entrepreneurs through the IBYE competition and over 99 young entrepreneurs in total, since the competition began in 2014. We want to build on that success by supporting Clare’s young entrepreneurs today and into the future.”

The county winners from Clare will now progress to the regional finals on June 17.

PRINT DEADLINE Copy will not be accepted after Tuesday at noon.

Email sales@clareecho.ie for enquiries

BUSINESS

33

Tool up; garden season has begun Are you fully prepared for the garden? Here’s the essentials to get started

TROWEL: This is your new best friend.

It’s important to get one that’s the right size and weight for your hands, because you will be using this a lot. It’s useful for planting bulbs, weeding, mixing and potting.

WHEELBARROW: Particularly useful for those lucky enough to have a sizeable garden.

Not just for carrying cut grass or distributing soil, it’s also handy for carrying your tools around. Invest in a plastic one with a hard wheel to avoid rust and punctures.

SPADE: More subtle and refined than the humble shovel, the spade is ideal not only for digging holes, but also for creating square edges and lifting soil.

Again, you will need a good quality one as the last thing you want is for it to break in your hands.

SECATEURS: Also known as a pruning shears, pruners or clippers, this tool is your go to for shaping plants and removing dead growth. A good secateurs will set you back a good

bit, but they will last forever and will be able to handle bigger tasks.

HOE: Every self-respecting gardener should have one of these. It’s essential for weeding, cultivating the soil, edging the lawn and countless other jobs. There are lots of varieties so ask the advice of the shop assistant to find the best one for you.

GARDENING GLOVES: There is NOTHING worse than getting a thorn stuck under your nail. The very thought of it gives us shivers. Protect your hands by wearing a pair of gloves.

This will prevent callouses and will save you scrubbing your fingers clean.

FORK: A fork is one of the most hardworking tools in a gardener’s arsenal.

Use it for removing stones, breaking up clumps of soil, creating holes for seeds and mixing in fertilizer. l FAIL TO PREPARE...: Having the right tools is the first step to succesful gardening

GARDENING

35

What to expect at Bloom 2019

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ARDENERS all over Ireland are frantically preparing for the biggest event in the horticultural calendar: the Bloom gardening festival, in the Phoenix Park in Dublin from Thursday, May 30th, until Monday, June 3rd.

Now in its 13th year, the hugely popular flower, food and family festival, which attracted almost 120,000 visitors to its 70-acre site last year, will feature 22 show gardens – including Ireland’s first gin garden – 14 postcard gardens, 25 plant nurseries, 25 cookery demonstrations with some of Ireland’s best-known chefs and some 100 retailers. This year’s event will have an added focus on environmental issues such as water conservation, plastic pollution and health and wellness.

SHOW GARDENS

The 22 show gardens will celebrate the skill and creativity of Ireland’s garden designers, landscapers and horticulturalists. Gardens with an important call to environmental action include Bee Positive, a pollinator-friendly concept garden; Aqua Marine, an underwater garden featuring marine flora and fauna; and the E3 garden – E3 stands for environment, engineering and emerging technologies – which will incorporate the treatment of waste water to be reused for gardening, food production and farming.

FOOD AND DRINK

Two show gardens will be dedicated to food and drink: the UCD History of the Irish Diet in Plants garden, which will illustrate changes in the Irish diet over the past 8,000 years; and the Blackwater Gin garden, Ireland’s first show garden dedicated to the spirit.

The Bord Bia Quality Kitchen stage will feature Neven Maguire, Rory O’Connell, Catherine Fulvio and other leading chefs; and Márie Dufficy of Bord Bia will host a new cookery feature with the gardening expert Gerry Daly, who will demonstrate how to add homegrown herbs to everyday meals.

At the Keelings display tunnel, children will be able to create seed bombs that include nectar-rich wild-flower seeds to attract bees and other important pollinators into their gardens.

36 GARDENING

Tips and tricks for your summer bedding

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ACH year, it seems the summer bedding plants come on sale earlier, even from the beginning of April. They are often displayed alongside hardy spring bedding, such as pansies and primroses, which is confusing because not everybody knows the difference between spring and summer bedding plants. For the record, spring flowers are hardy and can take frost and cold nights, while summer bedding cannot.

Of course, you might get away with planting out too early, but there is little to be gained and the risk is great - a whole batch of plants could be lost to frost or severely damaged so they never fully recover. A hard late spring frost could easily catch out plants put into the soil too early. It is safe enough to plant in southern coastal areas from early May but wait a full month later in cold, inland areas of the northern half of the country.

The selection of bedding plants used in a garden can greatly influence how successful the results are. If the wrong plants are chosen, the effort, and expense, spent on the plants is partially or entirely wasted, or falls

short of how well it might succeed. Each kind of bedding plant has a set of attributes and capabilities and these can be matched to the requirements of the house and garden.

Although bedding plants are known as half-hardy annuals, most aren’t truly annuals, as such, but are treated as such and grown for one year. This includes petunias, geraniums, verbena, asarina, brachycome, bacopa, fuchsia, bidens, heliotropium, viola, lobelia, nasturtium, mimulus, scaveola, begonia, busy lizzies, felicia, dahlias, arctotis, gazania and diascia.

In fact, relatively few are annuals, such as French marigolds and nemesia. Being perennials, most of these plants flower right through summer and into autumn and can be kept going by feeding and watering, and occasional dead-heading if you have time to do it.

Faced with a wide choice of bedding plants, the most common mistake is to use too many kinds. This ends up as a mishmash with none of the plants doing each other justice. It is much more effective to plant up a small variety that complements each other.

Bedding plants can be chosen according to several different criteria. The first is the site. While all bedding plants thrive in open sunshine, relatively few tolerate shade. Bedding busy lizzie and bedding begonias are solid exceptions, with bacopa and mimulus as well.

For hanging baskets, pots and window

boxes, many trailing kinds are ideal, such as trailing petunias, ivy-leaved geraniums, trailing fuchsia, bidens, asarina, scaveola, bacopa, trailing lobelia, nasturtium and felicia. Trailing forms are not as effective when planted out in the open soil as their shape is lost. The bushy kinds are better, such as bedding dahlias, geraniums, busy lizzie, bedding begonia, arctotis, diascia, viola and petunias. In using combinations, try to mix trailing and bushy kinds in baskets and other containers as the trailing kinds scramble and hang and the bushy sorts fill out the top of the container.

Size of flower is another factor to consider, vary for best effect. For instance, petunias, tuberous begonias, arctotis, geraniums and verbena have big colourful flowers and bedding begonias, bacopa, sanvitalia, lobelia, felicia, brachycome and bidens have small massed flowers that give a filled effect. Colour is crucial to whether a planting scheme succeeds.

Choose colours that match, such as red, pink, purple or yellow, orange red, or that contrast, blue against yellow, orange against purple. Use some foliage - brown, green, bronze, copper or black - to set off flowers.

The darker colours add a heavy brooding touch, the lighter ones lift the mood. White can be useful to cool down hot orange, red and purple. Choose colours that pick up a feature of the house or garden, such as paintwork or the colour of pots.

GARDENING

37

38 GARDENING

Gardening tips: plant Euphorbia ‘Mrs Robb’s bonnet

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LANT this Dry shade – every gardener’s achilles heel – is no problem for Mrs Robb’s bonnet. Ignore the Downton-esque common name – Euphorbia amygdaloides var. robbiae is a tough old boot of a plant that produces beautiful lime green flowers in spring atop glossy evergreen leaves. It will spread, but is far more picturesque than dry bare soil. Handle with gloves to avoid its milky sap which is a skin irritant. Height and spread 1m x 70cm.

Watch your flowers grow Top 10 things to remember when caring for your flowers

Make sure they have enough light What’s the sunniest spot in the garden?

Give it to your flowers and they will love you for it.

Make sure they have enough water, but not too much A water logged plant is not a happy plant, especially if they are traditionally grown in dry conditions.

Keep an eye on the pot size. As a plant grows, it will need a bigger space for its roots. So check them every so often and switch up the pot if necessary.

As well as pot size, the type of pot you choose is very important.

Make sure the pot has a hole in the bottom for proper drainage and that it is sturdy enough not to crack easily.

Check for pests The last thing you want is your flowers eaten by bugs after putting so much effort into growing them. But be mindful of the type of insecticide you use.

Deadhead your flowers Removing the dead heads and foliage on your plants will help them to grow and live longer.

Consider using some fertilizer If the plants don’t have the right nutrients, they won’t grow. So check out the right fertilizer for your plant babies.

Don’t crowd your flowers. Although it may look really pretty to have the pot overflowing with blossoms, it will ultimately strangle your plants.

Weed often Again, unwelcome invaders will take over the pot if you don’t keep an eye on them. And make sure you pull them out by the roots.

Mind the Irish weather Unfortunately we are not lucky to live in the tropics. So if the dodgy Irish weather looks like it’s going to get rough, bring your pots inside to protect them from the elements.

Championship Preview 2019

Gerry: We feel it’s time we delivered

FRIENDLY RIVALRY: Joint Clare manager Gerry O’Connor shaking hands with his predecessor Davy Fitzgerald earlier this year

Photo by Martin Connolly

PÁRAIC McMAHON

T

paraic@clareecho.ie

HEIR league quarter-final defeat to Waterford in Walsh Park was the warm-up and Sunday is the real deal as Clare aim to get their Munster Senior Hurling Championship campaign off to a winning start.

A potential visit by US President Donald Trump to Doonbeg next month has led to speculation of a recce being carried out by the secret service in County Clare. In March, the Banner’s hurlers headed to Waterford and management used this trip to do a recce of their own prior to the championship.

“We went down there with a two-pronged approach; win the game and check out the grounds, logistics and timelines. We got the logistics fairly right but we didn’t get the performance right,” Clare’s joint manager Gerry O’Connor told The Clare Echo.

“We would have been fairly disappointed - I don’t know was that fatigue from playing four or five games over a five weekend slot. I don’t know but all I can tell you, for the last eight weeks since that Waterford game the players have applied themselves tremendously well,” he added. They have made the subsequent decision to stay in Waterford on Saturday night.

O’Connor and joint manager Donal Moloney are in their third year over the senior side, and he’s adamant 2019 is the year they have to deliver.

“It doesn’t get any easier, it’s been two

distinct years. The first year was the old format and last year was the new format.

“We were just getting used to one format when they introduced another format, from that point of view it’s a continuous learning curve at this level but I think at this stage, after two years under our belt, it has come to a stage where there are no more excuses as a management team and a group of players. We feel it’s time that we delivered this summer”.

In the eight weeks since the conclusion of the league, two significant boosts arrived to the panel in the form of Shane O’Donnell’s return and John Conlon’s recovery from injury.

“Two things have coincided at the same time, John Conlon came back from injury and Shane O’Donnell came back from Harvard. The two of those have added massively to the leadership on the field, off the field and in the dressing room - it’s like having two new players,” explained O’Connor. “They are testing our two corner backs to start with and they are giving an outlet to the rest of the team in terms of an outball to the full forward line in training and matches”.

Getting out of Munster is the short-term goal according to the Killanena native, who insisted they cannot afford to look past Waterford.

“Sunday is the only game we’re putting emphasis on for the minute. There’s three other games and you could nearly call them three home games from a supporter’s perspective but right now we’re looking no further than 2 o’clock Sunday in Walsh Park”.

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Touhy: Every game like a Munster final PÁRAIC McMAHON

LAST LINE OF DEFENCE: Touhy breaks his hurley making a save against Tipperary in the league

Photo by Martin Connolly

paraic@clareecho.ie

T

HIS Sunday Dónal Tuohy is hoping glory away days in Waterford will be repeated as the Munster Championship commences.

July 29, 2009 may not ring a bell but the date is quite significant in the Clare hurling story. Lest you forget, it was when Clare won the U21 Munster hurling final for the first time defeating Waterford 2-17 to 2-12 at Fraher Field, Dungarvan. The summer wouldn’t end there for John Minouge’s side and they went on to capture the All-Ireland title at the expense of Kilkenny.

Tuohy, John Conlon and Patrick O’Connor are the last three standing from that Dungarvan day. This success brought a much needed glimmer of hope back to the game within the county and would provide inspiration for a younger brigade containing Tony Kelly, Podge Collins, David McInerney, Colm Galvin and Aaron Cunningham behind them.

Although he is in agreement regarding the magnitude of their U21 success over Waterford, Dónal is not concerned about Sunday’s location. “I don’t think the venue is going to have a huge bearing from our point of view, we just have to focus on our performance and be consistent. Playing an away game is a different aspect in terms of the crowd but we need to focus on making sure we’re right”.

Mike McNamara was the manager responsible for bringing the Crusheen netminder into the senior squad. He joined at the same time as clubmate Cian Dillon whose inter-county retirement in January would put an end to many shared journeys between the duo. Gerry O’Grady and Paddy Vaughan were the club’s representatives on the county panel prior to their addition and were later joined for a spell by Cathal Dillon. Ross Hayes is now part of the extended panel and his addition ties in with the changing of a guard that has led to more responsibility being pushed in Dónal’s direction.

“The age profile has changed,” says Dónal. “It’s changed so much that the younger players are taking up leadership roles anyway so it’s not too much of a factor if you’re at a certain age, the leadership is spread throughout the panel”.

Conor McGrath, Conor Cleary, Jamie Shanahan, Ian Galvin and Darragh Corry are all unavailable for Sunday’s tie but according to the 29-year old, their absence did not dampen the mood within the Banner setup due to a growing panel, thanks to plenty of experimenting in the league by the

management team. However Cleary’s suspension means Dónal Moloney and Gerry O’Connor will have to start a different centre back for the first time in a competitive match this year which Tuohy insisted is not an issue. “It’s just the way the game has gone, you’re not stuck into one actual position, the way positioning and forward movement is now, you have to be comfortable regardless of position.”

Having previously been fighting for the No1 shirt with Patrick Kelly and Andrew Fahey, Touhy has gradually become Moloney and O’Connor’s preferred choice between the posts and the Dell employee has observed in that time how greater emphasis has been placed on the value of puckouts.

“When I joined the panel, your key components were shot stopping, being as solid as you could in general play and then puckouts was something you took into account after that. Now the way it’s gone, it’s very similar to football where possession is everything and the whole aspect of puckouts has taken a new dimension,” said the NUIG graduate.

After securing a place in the All-Ireland semi-finals last year, Dónal revealed there is huge pressure on Clare to qualify for the last four again this year.

“I think [last year] was a different scenario because we had already progressed through Munster so that pressure was off us to a certain extent, we had lost a couple of All-Ireland quarter-finals so that’s why we needed to make progress from that point of view. Every match now is more or less like a Munster Final, we need to be performing at our absolute capability. We can’t afford to look long-term with our matches that we have now, all of our focus 100 percent is on May 12, after that is irrelevant to me because we can’t afford to be looking past that,” he added.

2019 Championship Preview

Conor Ryan filled with pride as brother in line for Championship debut

C

RATLOE’S Ryan family have been very generous with their contributions to Clare hurling down through the years. A new chapter will begin on Sunday with Diarmuid expected to get his senior debut, writes Páraic McMahon.

It’s six years since his brother Conor burst onto the scene, with his display against Galway in the 2013 quarter-final forever etched in the memory. That was the day Clare realised their potential with the UL graduate leading the charge from centre back. The drawn All-Ireland final saw him collect man of the match, with his fielding ability decisive as he won the individual battle with Seamus Harnedy. A week later, he would be the proud holder of an All-Ireland senior title.

Pride is the feeling experienced by Conor this week as he watches his sibling prepare for a showdown in Walsh Park. “In fairness to Diarmuid, he’s forged his own path the whole way and I certainly can’t take any credit for it whatsoever. He knows I’m always here as a sounding board if he needs it. He’s been absolutely brilliant with how he handled each of the levels from starting with Clare underage to Dean Ryan and Harty at school right up to minors, U21s and now with the senior panel. As an older brother one could only look down with pride.

“He knows he’s young and has a huge career ahead of him if he can keep on the right tracks, he is surrounded by some fantastic teammates and they are having as much of an impact on him as anybody. It’s important that he keeps the feet on the ground but he’s a good lad and well able to keep the focus,” Conor told The Clare Echo.

Although Diarmuid hasn’t approached his older brother for advice this week, Conor maintains the key thing for any inter-county player is “to control the controllables”. “There are so many things on matchday outside of your control, just look after your own shop, control what you need to do and put yourself in a

good place. The week of championship is the most enjoyable week. I remember the days we’d be inside training and Fergal Lynch would be slagging that your touch is always in for the week of championship. The ball hops a bit quicker the week of championship and there is great excitement. The hard work has been done at this stage, it’s just about enjoying it and getting off on the right foot”.

Conor Cleary’s suspension means Clare will have a new centre back against Waterford. As the number six from the All-Ireland winning side of 2013, Ryan outlined what he would be saying to the player chosen to fill the spot. “The way Clare play is evolving over time in terms of the role of a centre back and we’ve seen centre backs become man markers in some ways over the years. At the end of the day, the centre back is in a very controlling position where he can see the field in front of him. It’s about making sure the lads around you are tuned in...Centre back is a great position to play and I’m sure whoever is there will absolutely relish it next Sunday”.

During his playing days, Ryan’s voice was always heard as he organised his back line and he has been impressed with how the younger players have adapted to the setup.

“I can’t help but be impressed by some of the leadership from the lads who were the younger ones when I was there, they’ve really stepped up. When you mix that in with the likes of John Conlon, who I looked up to as a leader and he’s still there, it’s a fantastic mix of guys. I think if any team is equipped to go down [to Walsh Park] it’s this Clare team.

“I know they wouldn’t have liked how it finished the last time they made a trip down to Waterford, they certainly have a bone to pick there. I would certainly be optimistic without being overly confident”.

On whether the weekend is crucial to determining how Clare’s year will pan out, he noted “It is and it isn’t. It’s always important to get off on the right foot but

at the end of the day the All-Ireland won’t be won on Sunday. Obviously everyone in Clare wants Clare to win but ... the main thing is having a good campaign in Munster and something to build on, at the end of the day I don’t think a win or a loss will define the season next Sunday”.

Returning to Croke Park for the second year in succession should be the main goal for Dónal Moloney and Gerry O’Connor’s side this year he feels. “Everyone wants to see Clare back in Croke Park, that’s the main thing and last year to see them up there after such an absence since 2013 was brilliant.

“I think it even gave the lads a lift and they were so unfortunate on the second day below in Thurles not to come away against Galway. If Clare could get to Croke Park, anything could happen, the most important thing there is that they have a great Munster championship campaign.”

A three point qualifier defeat to Cork in 2015 would be Conor’s last championship outing, as illness and injury cruelly put a premature end to his career. At the beginning of 2018, he announced his retirement at the age of 26 with Colm Collins observing to him, “you did your shopping early”.

“It was tough but there’s no point dwelling on it for too long which I didn’t thankfully. I’ve gone on to do a few bits since, I was lucky enough to go volunteering in Zambia which was a massive experience. When you do step away you can be pitiful or you can be positive and I think the latter was the more appealing option for me”.

In August, he will head for Boston to pursue a two year MBA with the intention of achieving “his burning professional desire” of investment banking and corporate finance. “There’s opportunity in every challenge and for me the challenge of not playing anymore has presented me with this fantastic opportunity and it’s something I’m going to grasp with both hands to be sure”.

He’ll soon download GAAGO to stream Clare’s games Stateside while he’s hoping for Banner emigrants to recommend Irish pubs in Boston to soak up the Championship in.

Meanwhile, Conor confessed that coach-

BROTHERLY LOVE: Conor (left) says Diarmuid has forged his own path to becoming a county hurler

Photo by Martin Connolly

ing is not a step he’s taking just yet. “To be honest I’m still not ready to make the plunge back into coaching especially teams around me with the Cratloe or Clare’s of this world not that I’d be anywhere near experienced to take up those roles. I wouldn’t be looking at it completely objectively just yet, there’s still a piece of me that wants to be out pucking the ball with them boys. I’m enjoying being a fan of Cratloe and Clare. I’m not the best fan in the world, I get far more nervous watching matches than I ever did playing I can assure you, which is something I find bizarre. I’m not involved with any team but I’ll try help out as much as I can in the club with the younger teams and it’s something I will try do more of ”.

Prior to the start of the interview, Conor mentioned that supporters have possibly forgotten him at this stage. Such a statement couldn’t be further from the truth as his presence on the field and in the dressing room is greatly missed by players and supporters alike. He may not play anymore but his achievements will live on in the folklore of Clare hurling for generations to come. If Diarmuid can come close to matching the exploits of his older brother for the seniors, then we can dream of big days ahead.

Championship Preview 2019

Bennett will be licking his lips

Fouling could be sword Clare fall on

T

HESE are the weeks you miss playing the most.

The slog of winter training comes into the rearview to be replaced by the thrill of hurling in the sunshine. In three days time, my former teammates will pull on the new Clare shirt for the first lashes of Championship hurling in 2019.

The Munster opener sees Clare do battle at a sold-out Walsh Park in front of a charged Waterford team looking to right a few wrongs and injustices from last year. Fuelling them on will be 11,000 fans who have waited 23 years to witness provincial hurling on home soil.

That’s as hot as it gets.

As a player, I relished challenges like this one. In my first three Championship seasons, we faced Waterford in the Munster opener each time in neutral territory and regardless of the form book, there was no telling who would come

out on top. This Sunday will be no different and you can only hope Clare can hit the ground running.

There has been an eight-week block of training since Clare’s last game and the intensity will have turned up a notch since the league - higher tempo, shorter sessions.

Over the last two weeks focus would have turned to skill levels, ensuring that the lads are razor sharp and the eye is in.

Looking back on the league, there were areas of major concern - principally Clare’s discipline. We fouled our way through games, and although it was acknowledged to the media that it had to stop, the problem continued. We handed a win to Cork, kept Kilkenny in a game and gave Limerick every chance to equalise; all through ill-discipline and consistent fouling. Every county side today has top class free-takers and Stephen Bennett will be licking his lips at

the sight of Clare unless we improve. If it is an area that has not been corrected for Championship, it will be the sword we fall on.

There are positives, too. Last year, management gave the same 17 or 18 players all the game time as they looked to build familiarity among key personnel; this year we saw experimental line-ups as the threat of relegation was removed from the league. Diarmuid Ryan emerged as an excellent prospect and one who will stake a claim for a starting spot this weekend.

Diarmuid is similar in style to his brother Conor, my schoolmate at Ardscoil Rís and teammate in 2013. He is athletic and aggressive, with tremendous work rate. With David Reidy unavailable, Clare will need to replace his scoring threat and Diarmuid looks the man to do that from wing forward.

The full extent of Clare’s panel will be tested. From last year’s team, Clare will be missing David Reidy, Rory Hayes, Darragh Corry, Ian Galvin, Jamie Shanahan, Conor McGrath and Conor Cleary for the Waterford clash. As a result, we are unsure as to how the team will line up. Cleary has been a constant at centre back during Dónal and Gerry’s time at the helm and he will be a loss following what many feel was an unfair suspension - he will be raring for road for the next game. In the meantime, he provides a selection headache for management and an opportunity for a

Darach Honan GAA ANALYSIS defender to step up.

My own club man Oisin O’Brien has been one of the most consistent performers through the club championship in recent years and putting him in the full back line could free David McInerney to come out and fill six in Conor’s absence. In the tight confines of Walsh Park, centre back will be pivotal and someone with David’s striking ability could have a major influence in setting up attacks. I’ve always thought that David would do his best hurling from the halfback line however, it also wouldn’t surprise me to see them opt for Jack Brown at centre back.

As I hinted, Waterford will arguably be the team to benefit most from the new home and away format, the other being Clare. Every team will have championship experience in the Gaelic Grounds, Pairc Ui Caoimh and Semple Stadium, but Walsh and Cusack Park are both intimidating venues and will be a new experience for many. Walsh Park is quite a narrow field, and often the home team will find space more easily than the visitors. When players are comfortable in their surroundings, they will exploit every available blade of grass. We regularly see visiting teams bunch much more and stay away from the baying crowd. This makes it easier for defences to get on top.

The tight pitch will also magnify the importance of the puckout strategy. Dónal Tuohy and Stephen O’Keefe will be desperately trying to find space with their puckouts for forwards to run onto however, it will be hard to come

by. The majority of puckouts that go long will be won by the first man in on the break. Clare will be hoping that Galvin and Golden in midfield will read the game better than their counterparts and win more breaking ball on the ground.

If Clare can dominate on puckouts and get Galvin on the ball this will give them the platform they need to go on and win.

So what’s the verdict as Clare begin their 2019 Munster Championship odyssey? Last year, we paid the price for a slow finish against Cork in the opening Championship fixture when Clare appeared to lose concentration when it mattered most. You would hope that won’t happen again and psychologically, Clare certainly will not fear Waterford. We beat them comprehensively last year in Ennis, however this game is going to be a very different affair.

Waterford have embraced a more attacking style of hurling that has seen the Bennet brothers flourish in their inside line as a result. They also have more strength in depth available to them this year than on the equivalent fixture last year.

From Clare’s perspective, on our last visit to Walsh Park we were without John Conlon and Shane O’Donnell. They are playing well by all accounts and Clare will hope they can replicate last year’s form and put Waterford on the back foot. Ultimately, Clare will need to have corrected the indiscipline evident in league and will need to compete hard on puckouts in order to come away with a win.

If not, we could be under pressure to qualify in our remaining games.

2019 Championship Preview

PREPARED FOR BATTLE: (above) Clare lined out at Cusack Park during last year’s campaign ahead of their victory over Limerick, who would go on to lift Liam McCarthy at the end of the year; (left) the players brought huge joy to the Banner faithful last year, including at the first semi-final versus then reigning All-Ireland champions Galway at Croke Park which ended in a dramatic draw

Photos by Martin Connolly

2019 Munster Hurling Championship Round 1 Waterford v Clare Cork v Tipperary

12/5 Walsh Park, 2pm 12/5 Pairc Uí Chaoimh, 4pm

Round 2 Tipperary v Waterford Limerick v Cork

19/5 Semple Stadium, 2pm 19/5 LIT Gaelic Grounds, 4pm

Round 3 Waterford v Limerick Clare v Tipperary

2/6 2/6

Walsh Park, 2pm Cusack Park, 4pm

Round 4 Cork v Waterford Limerick v Clare

8/6 9/6

Pairc Uí Chaoimh, 7pm LIT Gaelic Grounds, 4pm

Round 5 Clare v Cork Tipperary v Limerick

16/6 Cusack Park, 2pm 16/6 Semple Stadium, 2pm

Championship Preview 2019

Bricklayer Fitzgerald a big part of Clare’s foundations

I

T HAS been a mixed bag so far for the Clare senior footballers in 2019, writes Páraic McMahon.

The primary objective of the Allianz National Football League was to secure their Division 2 status which they did, though a higher finish in the table would have been preferred. However, Aaron Fitzgerald’s gradual growth into the centre back spot has to stand out as one of the successes of the NFL. When talk turns to Clare’s League campaign, Aaron remains frustrated that they failed to get a win against Fermanagh and Armagh - a victory in either of these outings would have meant less pressure in their final round versus Tipperary. But all’s well that end’s well as the Banner responded superbly to the test with Keelan Sexton grabbing the decisive goal to ensure Division 2 football is on the agenda come 2020.

Sexton and Cooraclare’s Pearse Lillis have since left the panel to go travelling for the summer, for Fitzgerald the decision was no major surprise. “You’d get a vibe off lads if they are going away. Pearse had been struggling with injury, Keelan had been talking about it for a few years so I don’t think there was ever going to be a surprise when they did decide to go. We’re building a panel that if anyone is injured or anything that a fella can step into his place straight away so there isn’t much of a change”.

Martin Daly, The Clare Echo’s football columnist identified the county’s failure to find a number one goalkeeper as a concern heading into the championship but the ex Rice College student stated their familiarity with all goalkeepers on the panel ensures it is not an issue.

“I wouldn’t say it would be a problem, when you’re in training you’d never really know who would be in goals, between the

four lads that are there you’d have somebody different behind you every night so it’s just a case of who it is really.

It wouldn’t be too different to be honest because there isn’t a keeper we have that is that standout.

“You go out everyday and you try and improve, especially when you’ve so many eyes watching you. I’d be happy enough but would be looking to get better and better as the games go by,” Aaron said of his individual displays for the county.

A member of the panel for the past two seasons, the Éire Óg defender is glad to have made the decision to link up with Colm Collins’ squad. “I had been asked before but I couldn’t commit so last year I said I’d give it a go because I would have regretted it if I didn’t. I’m delighted with it. It is probably one of the better things I’ve done with my life”.

Going from club to county can be a shock to the system for any player and for Aaron there were some surprises. “Especially with the diet, that would be a big thing, training is five or six days a week. There’s more time involved.”

Ten to 15 years ago, Aaron’s occupation as a bricklayer would not be unusual for any inter-county footballer or hurler but in 2019 it has become more of a rare case. Of balancing the job with playing and finding recovery time, he said, “It’s tough but you have to get on with it, you get used to it after a while and get into a routine. You’d definitely have a problem getting recovery in, getting off for

2019 Munster Football Championship Quarter Final 1 Tipperary v Limerick Quarter Final 2 Clare v Waterford

11/5 Semple Stadium, 7pm 11/5 Cusack Park, 7pm

Semi Final 1 Cork v Winner of 1 1/6 Pairc Ui Rinn, 7pm Semi Final 2 Kerry v Winner of 2 1/6 Cusack Park or Fraher Field, 7pm Final TBC 22/6 TBC

training and stuff - my boss is sound when it comes to that. Sometimes you’re better off getting up in the morning, moving around the place when you’d be broken up”.

Though its hurling equivalent has received rave reviews for its standard and excitement, the Munster SFC has not been afforded such praise. Fitzgerald is not afraid to admit that there is a buzz missing from the championship. “The last couple of years, even going watching the games it wouldn’t be great for the first round. We’ve had Limerick for the last four years, for fans going it’s not great and I definitely think it needs a change up, even a league campaign. Colm spoke before about a World Cup style draw for the All-Ireland which I think is a great idea”.

Clare meet Waterford in Cusack Park for the first time since 2014, a game that finished all square. On where they can get an edge on Saturday, Aaron pointed to the

physical stakes, “Because we’re the home team it depends on the intensity we decide to bring to it, we’d be hoping to really go out this weekend and put in a real performance.

If we didn’t, we’d be broke up over it.”

Next month he’ll celebrate his 28th birthday and in June he’s also hoping to renew acquaintances with Kerry who dished out a 22 point defeat to Clare last year. “You kind of feel last year was more of an embarrassment than anything else. There’s definitely the sense of us wanting to go out and prove ourselves and our fans.”

Revenge is on the list of objectives for the Banner this year but according to Aaron there is also a determination to claim some silverware. “You wouldn’t see it as a success unless you were to win it and I think any player playing any game is going out to win so I’d say we’re going out to win it and I wouldn’t be happy with anything less”.

LEAGUE SUCCESS: The growth of Aaron Fitzgerald at centre back has been a huge plus for Clare. He also praised Colm Collins’ idea of a new football format

Photos by Martin Connolly

2019 Championship Preview

New keeper in the deep-end Martin Daly

C

GAA ANALYSIS

LARE kick off their Championship campaign this Saturday evening at Cusack Park in what some would have picked out as a formality - Waterford at home.

However, as has so often greeted Colm Collins’ side in 2019, there have been twists and turns in the lead-up to the 7pm opener.

In late March, final day league dramatics saw Clare pull the rug from under Cork’s feet when delivering a 12th round knockout blow to Tipperary and in turn, scraping Division 2 status. One man who was instrumental in landing that knockout was goalscorer (and boxer) Keelan Sexton. The ‘Bricks man is off to the USA but that might be the least of our problems come Saturday.

It was clear to see during the league campaign that Colm Collins was working hard on unearthing an undisputed Number One goalkeeper. There’s no doubt - particularly with the importance of the position in the

modern game - that he made it a priority and as such there was opportunity for Eamon Tubridy, Rob Eyres and Pierce DeLoughrey to stake their claim. As the gods of misfortune would have it, it looks like none of the above are available to start this weekend due to injuries of varying degree and in the eleventh hour, two youngsters in the form of Stephen Ryan of Kilrush Shamrocks and Tom O’Brien of Doora Barefield have been drafted in as backup.

Ryan, likely to start, will only be able to rely on the experience of a training match against Offaly at county level as he heads into the intensity of Championship football. He’s a fine keeper but this will be a huge challenge. When you finish with the league, a county team would plan to sharpen up players across the pitch and get a few challenge games under their belts to improve intensity and accuracy levels. But to be not put at the pin of your collar yet in a pressurised Championship game (or even league, for that matter) and to be the pivotal man in Clare’s kick-out system which is about keeping possession with short, precision kick-outs - Ryan will be tested to say the least. If Clare were facing stronger opposition, I’d be extremely worried but

even against Waterford, I’m still worried.

The fact that we have a settled back six in front of the goalie will be a source of comfort to young Ryan. However, the shortlist of players M.I.A is slightly worrying. We’re down our starting goalie. Keelan Sexton is away. David Tubridy is injured. Cathal O’Connor looks like a definite non-starter.

His natural replacement, Cooraclare’s Sean O’Donohue got a knock at training camp in Dublin last weekend - so now you have four or five guaranteed starters not on the field.

Marry this to the fact that Waterford will lift their level with it being a Championship game - they showed last year that they can do that when they took Wexford’s scalp.

However, I still expect Clare to be stronger than Waterford. If Clare come with the right attitude and attack Waterford with pace that they won’t have witnessed in Division 4, it could be a repeat of our opener against Limerick last year when it was over by half time. In the absense of some household names, others will get their chance and that might help focus. You’ll have lads fighting for positions including Eibhin Courtney, Conor Finucane and Cormac Murray to name a few. They’ll want to prove themselves so that bit of bite will up

Choosing the right putter grip for you

P

UTTER grips have drastically changed in size over the past ten years and it can be a daunting task these days trying to choose the correct grip.

Most of our customers at P&M Golf Superstore are often overwhelmed with the amount of options and choice when it comes to choosing a putter grip.

The key to choosing the correct grip is understanding your current putting stroke and knowing which type of grip will suit your putting stroke the best.

Grip Size: When you are trying to choose the best size grip to go for, mainly you’re trying to feel which size feels the best when you hold it.

Always remember the thicker you go when choosing a putter grip, the less you will use your hands in your putting stroke. When your hands are full, with a larger grip they become less active in the putting stroke, therefore your shoulders have to become more involved. Your stroke will always become more consistent when you use your bigger muscles (shoulders), rather than your smaller limbs (hands).

However bigger is not always better because although your stroke will become more consistent, it’s also possible if you go too big you can then loose a lot of feel and this will generally lead to a loss of distance control and your pace might not be as good. Therefore when deciding the correct size ask yourself are you the type of player who wants to take their hands out of their stroke?

Or would you like to still release with your hands as well as rocking your shoulders because your

pace is better this way.

I found when I tried the thickest 5.0 grip size my stroke looked great but my pace ended up getting worse. In the end I’ve ended up with a 2.0 grip size because I can still rock my shoulders but I also feel like I can still release my hands a little which helps my pace.

Putting is not just about getting the ball started on the right line, it’s more important to make sure the pace of your putts is consistently good therefore go for a grip size that improves your stroke but doesn’t

affect your pace.

Tapered / Non-Tapered Grips: These are the two main types of grips - tapered are thicker at the top and get thinner as they go down the shaft and non-tapered are the same thickness at the top all the way to the bottom of the grip.

Tapered grips are for the golfer who likes to use their hands a little for feel whereas non-tapered are for the golfer looking to use less hands in their putting stroke.

Ask yourself when you are next choosing a putter grip do I need to improve my pace or my consistency or both?

Choose a grip wisely there are a lot of sizes from 1.0 - 5.0 with tapered and non-tapered, however if you are in doubt get advise from your local PGA Golf Professional, we are there to help you to choose the best grip that will suit your needs.

the ante - it might be needed because we’re still yet to witness Eoin Cleary (pictured) return to full match sharpness.

One dimension of Clare’s game which I feel has been thus far lacking, is the ability to move the ball quickly into the forward line. If we play our normal game of holding up possession until gaps appear, that will fall into Waterford’s hands - as it generally does for weaker teams. This is an opportunity to start delivering fast ball by foot - because if you do overcome Waterford, we certainly will not beat Kerry by handpassing up the pitch.

But make no mistake about it - it would be very foolish to have Kerry in back of the head.

Every Championship game has to be taken on its own and Colm Collins is around long enough to know that.

PGA Golf Professional #PadraigKnowsGolf

Padraig McGrath

GOLF ANALYSIS

The Scorecard in association with

KILRUSH GOLF CLUB Malone’s Pharmacy Ladies Singles May 2 1st M McCarthy (29) 34 pts (Back 9) 2nd M Hehir (20) 34 pts 3rd M Saunders (24) 31 pts (Back 9) Friday Mixed Team May 3 1st S Lillis, T Coffey, J Lorrigan, J O’Malley 2nd A Howard, M Collins, A Shannon, P Glynn 3rd M Shannon, M Collins, N O’Leary Banner Contractors 18 Holes Men’s Open Singles May 4-5 1st K Hartigan (17) 41 pts (Back 9) 2nd J McNeilis (16) 41 pts 3rd P Shannon (16) 38 pts (Back 9) ENNIS GOLF CLUB Intrmediate SCRATCH CUP May 4-5 GROSS 1st Flan Lyons (12) 81 gross 2nd Peter Lyons (12) 84 gross 3rd Conor Gleeson (14) 86 gross NETT 1st Fergus O’Brien (17) 69 nett 2nd Andrew Hester (16) 70 nett CSS Sat 73, Sun 72 Junior SCRATCH CUP GROSS 1st Kieran Fox (6) 73 gross 2nd Noel Pyne (6) 75 gross 3rd Martin Moran (7) 76 gross NETT 1st Enda Heaney (11) 69 nett 2nd Ian Myatt (9) 71 nett CSS Sat 73, Sun 72 Friday Open Singles May 3 1st Gary Daly (15) 37pts 2nd Matthew Whelan (4) 35pts Gross Sean Myatt (1) 27pts 3rd Leo Herbert (10) 33pts

9 Hole open singles 1st Rose Enright (35) 19pts 2nd Steve Burns (13) 17pts 3rd Mary Glynn (30) 16pts TUESDAY 4 BALL RESULTS April 30 1st Eamonn Corry & Michael Cummins 2nd Peter Lyons & Tony McInerney 3rd Ronnie Guinnane & Sean O’Gorman Ladies Australian Spoons 18 H Scotch Foursomes Nett 1st Kitty Morris (11) and Yvonne Keohane (17) 32tps Gross 1st Valerie Hassett (10) and Suzanne Deane (15) 18pts 9 Hole Competition 1st Jacinta Nicholas (35) 18pts Senior Ladies Scramble April 30 1st Jean Moloney, Bernie Brooks and Mary Murray 51.83 2nd Claire Ruane, Eileen Corry (T) and Pauline Parks 53.17 3rd Phil Butler, Frances Bergin and Mary Woulfe 54.17 EAST CLARE GOLF CLUB Men’s POY (Yellow tees) 1st Michael Hayes (23) 45 pts 2nd Matthew Cooney (27) 41 pts Men’s Stableford( Yellow tees) 1st William O Brien (7) 42 pts 2nd Matthew Cooney (26) 41 pts Men’s Seniors 1st Teddy Murphy, Brian Torpey,Michael Hayes 2nd Pat McNamara, Jim Bradley, Steve Symes Ladies Singles Winner Bridget Minogue

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RESENTED for sale in impeccable condition throughout and conveniently located in the Greendale Development, Number 26 offers the prospective buyer a show house home in the heart of Ennis Town Centre with gated entrance, tarmacadam drive, private front and rear gardens, extensive patio and a host of mature shrubbery in the ultimate in privacy. The interior of the property has been modernised tastefully by its current owners with features such as modern fitted kitchen, extensive timber flooring, integrated appliances, extensive tiling, modern bathroom and many more throughout this bright and spacious well proportioned home.

4 €199,000

ETACHED House, 4 Bedrooms, Countryside Views, Easy reach of Ennis Town, Minutes from Ballyalla Lake, Adjoining Garage Set on a stunning mature site that looks on to the extended countryside to the rear, Number 34 is a 4 (double) bedroom detached bungalow in the very popular Ashfield Park development within easy reach of all of Ennis towns many amenities and immediately opposite facilities such as the Riverlodge Fitness Centre, Lidyl supermarket and a short stroll to Ballyalla Lake. The property is presented in very good condition throughout and has the added feature of an adjoining garage with the driveway extending to the side to the garage door. This property is a must view and strictly by appointment only with sole selling agents DNG O’Sullivan Hurley.

Contact: Cormac O’Sullivan, DNG O’Sullivan Hurley, 74 O’Connell Street, Ennis Tel: (065)6840200 PSL 002295

26 GREENDALE, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

Contact: Cormac O’Sullivan, DNG O’Sullivan Hurley, 74 O’Connell Street, Ennis Tel: (065)6840200 PSL 002295

4

HE property is a deceptively large home (approx 3000 sq feet) set on a beautiful tree lined landscaped site located within 5 minutes drive from the village of Corofin, 5 minutes from Ruan, 20 minutes from Ennis town,15 minutes from Gort and only 40 minutes from Galway. Outside area parking to the front, beautiful cut stone walls, stone pillars, raised lawned area with mature trees with feature old stone relic to the front, tarmac driveway at the side which goes around to the rear of the property. Large tarmac area, concrete patio area, tree lined boundary either side, lawned area, post and rail fence looking straight onto the countryside. The house has its own private water well, septic tank sewar, oil fired central heating with upstairs/ downstairs zoning.

Contact: Douglas Hurley, DNG O’Sullivan Hurley, 74 O’Connell Street, Ennis Tel: (065)6840200 PSL 002295

€99,950

Contact: Douglas Hurley, DNG O’Sullivan Hurley, 74 O’Connell Street, Ennis Tel: (065)6840200 PSL 002295

Contact: Douglas Hurley, DNG O’Sullivan Hurley, 74 O’Connell Street, Ennis Tel: (065)6840200 PSL 002295

KELLS, COROFIN, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

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5

BALLAGHBOY, RUAN, CO. CLARE

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€179,000

ETACHED Bungalow 3/4 Bedroom (3 En-suite), 0.6 Acre Site, Double Garage (36.5 sqm) 133.41 - sqm (1436 - sqft) Situated in a mature 0.6 Acre site is this 3/4 bedroom bungalow with large double garage. The property is accessed by double entrance to front with large driveway, lawned areas to all sides and mature trees around the boundary. The rear garden is South Easterly facing.

Contact: Douglas Hurley, DNG O’Sullivan Hurley, 74 O’Connell Street, Ennis Tel: (065)6840200 PSL 002295

50

PROPERTY

THURSDAY, MAY 9 2019

Average Clare house prices rise by 5.6% over past 12 months

T

HE price of the average three-bed semi in County Clare rose by 5.6% to €190,000 in the past year, according to a national survey carried out by Real Estate Alliance.

Clare prices were static in the first three months of this year, the REA Average House Price Survey found.

The survey concentrates on the actual sale price of Ireland’s typical stock home, the threebed semi, giving an up-to-date picture of the second-hand property market in towns and cities countrywide to the close of last week.

“Despite the growth seen this year, the market has stabilised itself with demand somewhat slowing,” said Paddy Browne of REA Paddy Browne Ennis.

“The average time that a three-bed semi is spending on the market has increased from

seven to nine weeks this quarter, compared to the six-week average sale time we saw this time last year.”

The average semi-detached house nationally now costs €235,898, the Q1 REA Average House Price Survey has found – a fall of -0.16% on the Q4 2018 figure of €236,287.

The price of a three-bed semi-detached house in Dublin city has fallen by -1.7% since the end of December, wiping out the average €7,000 gains in value experienced throughout 2018.

The price of the average threebed semi-detached house in the capital’s postcode districts now stands at €437,500.

“Time taken to reach sale agreed in Dublin is now eight weeks – double that of a year ago – and reflects the difficulties that people are experiencing in obtaining a mortgage,” said REA spokesperson Barry McDonald.

“We are seeing an appreciable drop in people attaining mortgage approval – particularly for properties above €350,000 – which is creating a ceiling that is stifling the market.”

Prices also fell slightly by -0.3% in the commuter counties in the last three months – an annual rise of 2.7% – with the average house now selling for €248,750.

Prices were static in the country’s major cities outside Dublin with agents in Cork, Galway, Limerick and Waterford all reporting no price movements in the opening quarter, but an annual increase of 3.6% to €252,500.

The highest annual increases (6.3%) were once again seen in the rest of the country’s towns which rose in selling price by an average of €9,400 in the past year and 1.1% in the past three months to €159,433.

% increases in 3-bed semi prices county by county

Average House Price Index March 2019

163,750

Carlow

120,000

Cavan

180,000

Clare

152,000

Cork County

315,000

Cork City

95,000

Donegal

( March ‘19 versus March ‘18) 4.4% 2.1% 5.6% 10.9% 0.8% 0.0%

315,000

North Co Dublin

407,500

South Co Dublin -1.0%

440,000

Dublin City

150,000

Galway County

265,000

Galway City

212,500

Kerry

266,500

Kildare

206,500

Kilkenny

175,000

Laois

105,000

Leitrim

149,000

Limerick County

200,000

Limerick City

95,000

2.4%

-0.6% 6.7% 6.6% 4.7% 3.8% 3.4% 11.4% 11.9% 7.4% 0.0%

Longford

202,500

Louth

152,500

Mayo

241,250

Meath

170,000

Monaghan

180,000

Offaly

130,000

Roscommon

115,000

Sligo

155,125

Tipperary

172,500

Waterford County

195,000

Waterford City

180,000

Westmeath

180,000

Wexford

274,393

Wicklow

21.1% 0.0% 4.9% 2.0% 4.7% 0.0% 9.6% 10.9% 7.9% 2.3% 7.7% 5.6% 2.8% 5.3%

52 CLASSIFIEDS

Classifieds ACCOUNTANCY

CAR REPAIRS

CLEANING

CAR VALETING

CARER REQUIRED CARER REQUIRED

Practical, patient, reliable, kind and caring person to live-in with elderly man for assistance 1,2 or 3 days a week, near Gort.

Beautiful home & surroundings with own room and bathroom. Wifi and Sky package.

Duties include: help with dressing and washing, preparing meals and night checks.

Experience ideal but not necessary. Driving licence a plus.

Enquiries to: 087 6173021

THURSDAY, MAY 9 2019

CONTACT SALES

065 671 9021 sales@clareecho.ie

GUITAR SCHOOL

HOME IMPROVEMENT

DOG TRAINING

The Clare Echo Classifieds

The Clare Echo Classifieds

Contact 065 671 9021

Contact 065 671 9021

THURSDAY, MAY 9 2019

Classifieds JOB OPPORTUNITIES

TIMBER PRODUCTS

LEARNING

PAINTING

ROOFING

TYRES

TARMACADAM

STORAGE

CLASSIFIEDS 53 CONTACT SALES

065 671 9021 sales@clareecho.ie

SAFE PASS TRAINING

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THURSDAY, MAY 9 2019

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QUIZ 55

THURSDAY, MAY 9 2019

The Clare Echo Quiz CLARE GENERAL KNOWLEDGE QUIZ

The 2018 Munster fleadh will be 1Kilrush, held in which Clare town?

Ennis, Shannon

2

Smith O Brien’s gaa club are based in which County Clare parish?

Feakle, Ballyvaughan, Killaloe Droichead an Chlair is the Irish name for which Clare village?

Cratloe, Clarecastle, Liscannor

3

The holy well at Newhall just 4 outside of Ennis is named after which saint?

Saint John, Saint Peter, Saint Paul

Name this County Clare castle.

5 (Pic left) Ballinalacken, Lemenagh,Knappogue In which County Clare village will 6 you find L”ARCO Italian Restaurant Ballyvaughan, Tulla, Doonbeg.

Kilrush, Milltown Malbay, Shannon

Name this County Clare village?

9 (Pic right) Doonbeg, Bodyke, Ruan

lCASTLE: Question 5. Name this County Clare castle.

Who was the Grand Marshall 10 for this year’s St Patrick’s Day Parade in Ennis?

ANSWERS

6. Ballyvaughan 7. Bunratty 8. Milltown Malbay 9. Bodyke 10. John Burke

Hennessy Memorial Park is the 8 Gaa grounds in which County Clare town

l VILLAGE: Question 9. Name this County Clare village?

1. Ennis 2. Killaloe 3. Clarecastle 4. Saint John 5. Lemenagh

Clonmoney is a townland in 7 which County Clare parish.

Kilbaha, Tulla, Bunratty

Marty Morrissey, John Burke, Tom McNamara

OLD IMAGES OF COUNTY CLARE

Horseshoe Cliff, Beltard, Kilkee, Co. Clare

Image NLI.ie / Collection: The Lawrence Photograph Collection