The Clare Echo 10/01/19

065 671 9021

clareecho.ie

editor@clareecho.ie

facebook.com/clareecho

twitter.com/ClareEcho

10 Jan 2019

Homeless men ‘felt like dogs’ PAIR CRITICIZE PRIEST FOR CATHEDRAL BAN PÁRAIC McMAHON

T

news@clareecho.ie

wo homeless men living in Ennis have criticised the stance taken by Fr Tom Ryan in telling them “to disappear” from the Cathedral grounds.

On Tuesday night, The Clare Echo sat down with Peter and Tomasz, two Polish natives that sleep on the streets of the county town.

Following instances of drinking, smok-

lHARD TIMES: Peter is one of two Polish men affected by the stance taken by Fr Tom Ryan

CHECK OUT OUR

Check out

Aoibhín Garrihy’s

LOVE CLARE SEE INSIDE

column inside

ing, and urinating in Ennis Cathedral, Fr Tom Ryan adopted a zero tolerance policy to any individual frequenting the Cathedral or its grounds.

According to Ennis-based homeless man Tomasz, a Roman Catholic, “As a homeless man it was very sad to be kicked like a dog.

I am a Catholic and no-one will move me like that.”

However he has no intention of developing a bad relationship with the former Shannon parish priest. “I don’t want to be an enemy of his...I would like to shake his hand.”

Full story PAGE 10

2 NEWS

THURSDAY, JAN 10 2019

28 vacant units at Gort Road industrial estate

Index DANISH HANDSHAKE

6

HOMELESS FEATURE

10

AOIBHÍN GARRIHY

PÁRAIC

12-13

ENTERTAINMENT

McMAHON

15

paraic@clareecho.ie

A

REELING IN THE YEARS 18 WEDDING GUIDE

19-30

MOTORING

32-33

CLASSIFIEDS

36-37

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

NEWSDESK

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

SALES

Email: ciara.farrell@clareecho.ie or ger.naughton@clareecho.ie

l IN THE THROWS OF IT: Monika Krazyania taking part in the annual Christmas Tree Throwing competition at Tim Smyth Park, Ennis

Photo by Michael O’Brien

LACK of “ideal vacant property” and lower rental yields is hindering foreign direct investment in Clare’s county town.

Such views were expressed at the final 2018 meeting of Clare County Council’s Economic Development SPC. Jennifer Collins who in July was appointed as the local authority’s Atlantic Economic Corridor (AEC) officer gave a presentation to members with details on a enterprise space au- dit for Ennis which is being carried out.

A number of County Councils including Clare, Donegal, Roscommon, Leitrim, Galway, Mayo, Limerick, Tipperary and Kerry form the AEC who according to Collins “are working together to counter-balance Dublin and the East”.

As part of the space audit, a data collection app is being used to gather information. Thus far, it has identified 28 vacant units at the Gort Rd Industrial Estate and four at Ballymaley Business Park.

“We aim for the Ennis audit to be completed by quarter one of 2019, then we will be looking at Shannon, Kilrush, Sixmilebridge and Newmarket-on-Fergus”.

Along with Ennis, a space audit is being done in Sligo. Pat Morris who sits on the SPC maintained Ennis was unable to match the promises being offered to the Yeats County. “Sligo has been promised 400 jobs and we can’t say the same for Ennis because of a lack of ideal vacant property. Part of the 2040 aspirations is to have 50 percent of the people living in the area to be working there, we need to see urban development”, the former President of Ennis Chamber said.

4

NEWS

THURSDAY, JAN 10 2019

Moneypoint turbines out of operation last three months

PÁRAIC McMAHON

T

paraic@clareecho.ie

URBINES at Ireland’s largest coal-burning station, Moneypoint have been out of operation for three months.

A forced outage at the facility in Kilrush, Co Clare has seen all three coal-filled units out of action and subsequently no electricity generated by coal at the plant since October.

The latest EirGrid data highlighted that the grid is running almost exclusively from gas (44 per cent) and renewables (43 per cent).

When contacted by The Clare Echo, ESB released a brief statement which read, "ESB does not comment on operational matters of our generation plant, other than through the formal market disclosure channels".

Moneypoint is one of the largest power generation stations in Ireland and the biggest stand-alone emitter of green house gases on the island. It supplies 16 percent of the country’s electricity needs but for the past fifteen weeks has been out of the picture.

During this period, the supply was coming from Tarbert which hadn’t been used in the previous year and also Tynagh in East Gal-

l UNCERTAINTY: A lone dolphin breaches the surface of the Shannon Estuary with the Moneypoint facility in the background Photo courtesy of Pat Kelly

way. The mild winter weather and high winds also assisted with 73 percent of the

lTOUGH WORK: Young Luke O'Neill with a mighty effort of 1.75 metres at the annual Christmas Tree throwing championships in the Fair Green, Ennis Photo by Michael O'Brien

demand at one stage being met entirely by wind energy.

Turbine three was taken was taken offline in June, the second followed on September 26th and unit one was taken down days later. Each has a capacity of 305MW. Engineering issues came to light during planned works on two turbines in the spring of 2018. Combined, they have a total of 250 million hours use.

It was expected that turbine three would be available for use on Sunday but this was rescheduled for Monday. Unit 1's return to use date is January 14th with the final turbine expected to be back available at the beginning of April.

Environmentalists have been calling for the closure of the facility which employs 194 people to significantly reduce Ireland’s carbon emissions.

Over a quarter of a million tonnes of coal can be stored at Moneypoint which would see it run at full tilt for 85 days offering a valuable backup reserve as Ireland is set to become increasingly dependent on the UK for gas imports with the scheduled closure of Kinsale gas field in 2021.

At present 51 percent of Ireland’s electricity comes from gas and the planned Celtic Interconnector which will hook the island to France won’t be complete until 2025 at the earliest if it goes ahead.

6

NEWS

THURSDAY, JAN 10 2019

Shannon man to be refused citizenship over handshake

PÁRAIC McMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

A

SHANNON man living in Denmark since 1981 is to be refused citizenship of his adopted country for refusing to comply with new laws which insist he must shake hands with the Mayor of Copenhagen.

Billy O’Shea (61), a translator and writer in Copenhagen, in recent months applied to become a citizen of Denmark. The processing for citizenship takes up to two years in the country and has a number of criterion such as recording every foreign trip for a period of 12 years, having no criminal records and the compulsory attendance of a ceremony in one’s local municipality where they must shake hands with the local Mayor when receiving the document. This according to O’Shea “was the final straw” and it will now make him the first person in history to be denied Danish citizenship for refusing to shake hands.

Originally from Aidan Park in Shannon, Billy maintains the stipulation was introduced to prevent religious extremists from receiving citizenship. “We have a minority government which is governing with the support of a right wing party called the Danish Peoples Party, a

l STANCE: Billy O'Shea says people are no longer equal before the law

bit like Theresa May and the DUP, so the tail is wagging the parliamentary dog and the politicians feel under pressure to come up with populist initiatives that will defend Denmark and Danish culture against this apparent imaginary tide of foreign culture that is sweeping over us”.

Referring to the introduction of a burqa law, Billy explained. “People are no longer equal before the law. If you’re from an immigrant area you could be punished more harshly under the law, these developments are worrying especially in a country like Denmark which has a very old and solid democratic tradition.

“I have to say right from the start I have no objection to shaking hands with anyone, I’ve no religious objections of any kind to shaking hands with people and I also find the practice of certain religious extremists to refuse to shake hands of the opposite sex to be repugnant and I in no way support that. My problem with the compulsory handshake is this; when people became citizens previously they were invited to a welcoming ceremony at which the local Mayor usually representing the authorities would shake hands with them and that would be fine and everybody would be happy.

"If you invite guests to your home you go to the front door and you shake hands with them to welcome them - the other situation corresponds more that you put a sign up before your front door where it says everybody must shake hands with me or else there will be trouble, in other words you’re threatening people...we can-

not shake hands if one of us is on their knees”.

Frank Jensen is the Mayor of Copenhagen, he has been in contact with O’Shea since the father of three published an opinion piece on Politken, a Danish daily broadsheet newspaper. “Frank Jensen is somebody I have a great deal of respect for and I’m very sorry to have to put him in this position, I wrote to him and I told him that and he wrote back and said he didn’t like the law anymore than I did but the law is the law and if that’s the way it is he will have to refuse me my citizenship when that day comes."

In 1999, he completed his Masters at the University of Copenhagen and in the following year was awarded a gold medal by the university for a theoretical paper on the interaction between culture and information in translation. This presentation saw him shake hands with the Queen, Margrethe II of Denmark which he had no objection to. “I had no problem at all shaking hands with the Queen, I was privileged and honoured to shake hands with the Queen, I have no problem shaking hands with anybody as long as somebody isn’t holding a gun to my back, that’s the only time when I will refuse, typical Irish”.

It may take up to two years until the ceremony where Billy may or may not be awarded his citizenship, regardless of the date he is adamant he will be sticking to his principles.

Hayes & McNamara appointed cultural ambassadors

FIVE Cultural Ambassadors have been appointed by the Minister for Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Josepha Madigan including Martin Hayes and Shelley McNamara.

Martin, a native of Maghera joins Golden Globe winning actress Ruth Negga, Pulitzer Prize winning poet John Muldoon plus internationally known architects Shelley McNamara and Yvonne Farrell of Grafton Architects as the Cultural Ambassadors.

The new positions which they will serve in for three years will see them promote Ireland globally as part of the Government’s Global Ireland 2025 initiative. The initiative aims to double Ireland’s footprint globally by 2025 though a mix of actions in the cultural, diplomatic, business, education and tourism areas. The Ambassadors will endeavour to raise the public focus on arts and culture as a means of promoting Ireland globally, provide advice and input on strategic cultural initiatives and participate in key events and projects.

In announcing the appointments, Minister Madigan said: “Ireland’s artists have been outstanding ambassadors for the country, since the era of the creative genius of Shaw, O’Casey, Synge, Yeats and Beckett.

The current generation of musicians, actors, architects, poets and other artists are continuing this invaluable work. They are the people that set our small island nation apart, the storytellers who convey Ireland’s story in a unique and memorable way, be it through word, music or design.

"We greatly appreciate each Cultural Ambassador’s acceptance of the role. In continuing to do what they do best, they will be among Ireland’s greatest representatives globally.”

On Tuesday, the Minister presented the four attending Cultural Ambassadors with a silver emblem by silversmith Seamus Gill to mark their appointment.

At the end of November, Hayes was conferred with an honorary doctorate from NUIG becoming a Doctor of Music at the Galway university. A founding member of The Gloaming, he has toured with Dennis Cahill all over the world and will tour next month with concerts in the Netherlands, London and Paris.

Lisdoonvarna born Shelley co-founded Grafton Architects in Dublin 41 years ago. The company won the World Building of the Year award in 2008 for their Bocconi University building in Milan.

l IMPORTANT ROLES: A presentation being made to Martin Hayes by Minister Josepha Madigan on Tuesday and (inset) Shelley McNamara at the ceremony

Photo by Maxwell Photography

NEWS

THURSDAY, JAN 10 2019

€200k boost for Clare recreation

STUART HOLLY

T

editor@clareecho.ie

HREE Clare projects have been approved for almost €200,000 in funding under the latest phase of the Outdoor Recreation and Infrastructure Scheme.

The development of walking trails at the People’s Park in Clarecastle; the extension of the river walk in Ennistymon and the provision of a looped woodland trail in Tulla will not only enhance community life but will also attract visitors to the area, according to Fine Gael TD Joe Carey.

“I am delighted to announce that €49,500 has been allocated to Clarecastle Community Development, Clarecastle Tidy Towns and the Clarecastle/Ballyea Heritage and Wildlife group for the development of walking trails and enhancement of the People’s Park in the heart of the village.

“The proposed works will include the provision of a new boardwalk and outdoor teaching area, footpath upgrade to encourage and promote movement through the

park, signage and bollards, CCTV, park lighting and a biodiversity area,” he explained. “€75,000 has been allocated to Tulla Soccer Club and the Tulla Courthouse and Community Development group for the Cragg Looped Trail project, which involves the construction of a 300 meter woodland walkway. It is proposed to have outdoor gym equipment at a number of locations along the route, one of which will be wheelchair friendly. Trail lighting will also be incorporated in the scheme to ensure that the facility can be used all year round.

“The Ennisymon and District Community Organisation will receive €69,000 to upgrade and extend the River Walk. The voluntary group has already completed a significant amount of work in the area including the provision of a pedestrian bridge over the river.

“Recreational tourism is a growing part of Ireland’s tourism offering, and we have seen an increase in the number of Irish and overseas visitors enjoying the many greenways, blueways and walking trails which have been developed around the country in recent years,” Deputy Carey added.

QUIN RESIDENTS MUST TRIM THEIR HEDGES LANDOWNERS who have not trimmed their hedges from Moyriesk Creamery to Drim are to be contacted by the Ennis Municipal District Office and informed “of their obligations under the Roads Act”.

The contact comes following a request from Cllr Pat Daly for the Ennis MD to cut the hedges along the road, “there is a lot of wasteland and forestry in this area”, he highlighted. Council Engineer, Barry Conway confirmed the land “is forestry but in private ownership and we will remind them of their responsibility”.

Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy recalled that she did a recent tour of the road, “You can see one side of the road is cut and the other is not, it is not fair for the Council to be cutting one side”.

Mike wants to know about engineering.

His mam wants to know about employment opportunities for Mike.

LIT Engineering

Open Day Saturday January 19th

10.00am - 2.00pm LIT Moylish Campus Interested in engineering?

Visit our Moylish campus, talk to staff and students about our engineering courses and to employers about what they want from graduates.

Visit cao.lit.ie/OpenDays l BROTHERS IN ARMS: Declan O’Connell, Ennis, Paschal Malone, Lahinch and Gerry McNamara, Ennis were at the Clare vs Waterford Munster Hurling League game in Fraher Field Dungarvan lsat weekend Photo by Martin Connolly

7

8

NEWS

THURSDAY, JAN 10 2019

Parking and housing top of Daly's agenda PÁRAIC McMAHON

I

paraic@clareecho.ie

F SUCCESSFUL in his attempt to be re-elected, Cllr Pat Daly will celebrate 20 years on Clare County Council in May. Parking, health and housing are top of his agenda as he prepares to commence his campaign.

Daly was selected alongside Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy for Fianna Fáil to contest the local elections in the Ennis Municipal District. Despite both Bernard Hanrahan and Mark Nestor putting themselves forward, Fianna Fáil issued a directive for a two candidate strategy which annoyed members.

As it stands Fianna Fáil has three sitting councillors in the EMD but with Cllr Tom McNamara relocating to the Kilrush area, his pool of votes are now left open.

First elected in 1999 when he topped the poll in Ennis, Pat told The Clare Echo that the lack of social housing built since 2011 is one of the most concerning issues that has occurred during his time on the Council. “I’m not going to go down the road of what Fianna Fáil did or what Fine Gael did but since 2011 there’s very few social houses built so that explains the whole story. There’s 3,000 people in Clare alone on the list so it’s a serious issue that has to be solved very soon. The

HAP scheme is fine but there’s no houses for people, for apartments, they’re finding it very hard to get them and the HAP is going to run out because the houses or apartments aren’t there”.

Parking is a problem in Ennis and it is something Daly wants fixed in the next Council term.

“I’ve a proposal put in many times for a site in Drumbiggle where the old town council was, I want someone to build that whether it’s public or private way of doing that so 400 parking spots could be built in that would look after the staff members of Ennis.

"The major problem at the moment is staff members who have no other choice but to park on the street or in the car parks are taking up all the spots and there isn’t room for the customers, it’s not the staff ’s problem or fault because the parking is there. A multi-storey car park in the Drumbiggle site would solve a lot of the parking problems we have in the town and I’m pushing that to the hilt”.

Born and raised in Parnell St, few individuals were more happy than Daly with the recent announcement that €1.4m will be allocated for regeneration works on the street and a further €189,000 will go towards Barrack Square and Old Barrack Street, O’Connell Street and High Street.

“I see a great opportunity

COUNCILLOR TO PROPOSE SHANNON AIRPORT REBRAND

C

OUNCILLOR Paul Murphy will put forward a notice of motion asking Clare County Council to call on the management of Shannon Group to consider rebranding the airport.

In an email seen by The Clare Echo, the Clarecastle Fine Gael Councillor will put forward a notice of motion to be tabled this coming Monday, saying, "In a bid to boost numbers using Shannon International Airport, and to endeavour making the most of the potential that the 'Wild Atlantic Way' brand has for the Western Seaboard, I am requesting that Clare Co Council call on manage-

ment at Shannon Group to consider rebranding the Airport accordingly".

The move follows an editorial piece written by Clare Echo editor Stuart Holly which suggested that renaming Shannon Airport as Wild Atlantic Way Airport, Shannon would be a positive move.

Mr Holly wrote, "Here’s an idea – rename the bloody place ‘Wild Atlantic Way Airport’...Wild, Atlantic and Way are the three golden words of the West of Ireland."

He went on to argue that Shannon has an opportunity to communicate a clearer vision for the future of the airport.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR email editor@clareecho.ie or post The Clare Echo, O'Connell Square House, Ennis, Co Clare

Dear Editor,

there. At the moment there’s too many properties closed in the capital of Clare, O’Connell St, Francis St, Market St, Barrack St are all going well and Parnell St will go well if this new development goes ahead. I brought all the councillors down there and the management and we got it going. The €1.6m is awful welcome news and it’s great for Barrack St”.

Being there to have a role to play with the redevelopment has given the former Mayor of Clare an extra incentive to win back his seat. “I want to be there to see the completion of the Parnell St development, I want to see Ennis become a model three hospital and the twenty four hour A&E reopened, I want the parking issue sorted out, I want to see more social housing, I could write a book on it”.

lYELLOW RIBBON SUCCESS: Lions Club Of Ennis Remembrance service in Cahercalla Hospital; Tom Carey, Aine Carey, Mary Moloney, Michael Neylon & James O’Loughlin. The Remembrance Tree project donated over €13,000 to Cahercalla Hospice

In the article “1 million Galway passengers choosing Dublin over Shannon” Mr Matthew Thomas, CEO of the company which is responsible for Shannon Airport, stated that “passenger numbers would remain the same regardless of military traffic”. This is clearly not the case because if US military traffic through Shannon was eliminated then passenger numbers and air cargo through Shannon airport would be considerable reduced.

However that is not the only issue with regard to US military use of Shannon airport that is damaging the long term future and viability of the airport.

The reputation of Shannon airport and of the Shannon regions is being seriously damaged by US military use of Shannon, not only locally but also internationally and this is one of the major reasons for the difficulties being experienced by the airport and why so many air travellers from the Shannon catchment region are instead opting to travel through Dublin airport in spite of inconveniences of distance and overcrowding at Dublin airport.

If Shannon airport is to survive and remain commercially viable into the future, then US military use of the airport must be ended. Of course there are even more important legal, moral and human rights reasons why US military should not be allowed use Shannon airport, but common sense commercial reasons and the future of jobs for the workers at Shannon airport also indicate that this US military stop-over should be ended.

Yours sincerely Edward Horgan, Newtown Castletroy, Limerick

NEWS

THURSDAY, JAN 10 2019

Purchase of Clare FM to bring ‘necessary stability’ STUART HOLLY

T

editor@clareecho.ie

HE Board of Clare Community Radio Holdings Ltd., operators of Clare FM and owners of a controlling interest in Tipp FM, has approved an offer from Radio Kerry Holdings to acquire the two stations.

The deal, which is subject to shareholder and regulatory approval, will lead to the consolidation of resources to safegaurd the future of the stations. According to a statement, Clare FM will retain its individual integrity as a separate broadcasting operation serving Clare.

The deal, for an undisclosed sum, follows the acquisition by Clare Community Radio Holdings - owners of Clare FM - of a significant majority stake in Tipp FM in 2013.

Both Clare FM and Radio Kerry groups have a long standing, close working relationship in the independent radio sector.

Clare FM, which was established in 1989, and was among the first wave of local stations to receive a broadcast licence from the BAI (formally known as the IRTC). Over subsequent years, Clare FM established itself as a leader in local radio and has been the recipient of major broadcasting awards on national and international stages. Clare FM and Tipp FM together employ 45 full-time and 30 parttime staff.

Commenting on the merger, Mr Liam O’Shea, Managing Director of Clare FM and Tipp FM and a major shareholder in both stations said, “The Board of Clare FM are recommending acceptance of the offer to their shareholders. Both offers are subject to shareholder and regulatory approval.

“We feel that, in a changing media environment, it will provide the necessary stability to grow our already successful stations into the future as part of a dynamic broadcasting entity.

Key benefits of this deal are that it will underline a commitment

lNEW DRIVER BEHIND THE WHEEL: Radio Kerry have added

Clare FM and Tipp FM to their porfolio of radio stations which already includes Shannonside and Northern Sound

to local radio, benefit our staff and our listeners”.

Radio Kerry was established in 1990, and also owns Shannonside and Northern Sound, which broadcasts to Longford, Roscommon, Leitrim, Cavan and Monaghan. Radio Kerry has been named Ireland’s Local Radio Station of the Year on five occasions.

CEO of Radio Kerry, Paul Byrne said, “The decision is being

made to be proactively involved in the future development of the radio and media industry in Ireland and to create new opportunities for staff, advertisers and listeners.”

Radio Kerry Chairman, Tim O Keeffe added that Radio Kerry has common objectives with Clare FM and that “It is the belief of all involved that this would strengthen and secure the future of all stations.”

9

‘Victims of abuse need more help’ GREATER resources are needed for female refugees in Ireland, Cllr Cathal Crowe has claimed.

Last Wednesday, Minister for Justice and Equality Charlie Flanagan announced the commencement of the Domestic Violence Act which has created a new offence of coercive control. The act also includes measures to recognise an intimate relationship as an aggravating factor in domestic violence cases.

In a statement to The Clare Echo, Cllr Cathal Crowe, a Fianna Fáil general election candidate welcomed the offence relating to coercive control.

He said, “We know from victims of domestic abuse, that coercive and controlling behaviour is often a key component of the abuse they are subjected to.

This type of abuse leaves no marks or scars but can cause victims to lose their freedom and experience fear on a daily basis.

“I am glad that this is now regarded as an offence.

“More must be done to help those who are suffering this type of abuse.

Statistics have shown that Irish women are amongst the least likely in Europe to report crimes of domestic violence.

This under-reporting is a major issue and those who do come forward, face obstacles such as having nowhere to go, no financial independence and having to navigate the courts system to get help,” Cllr Crowe added.

Get more from your smartphone.

Join our free 3Assist event on January 23rd to get up to speed with your smartphone.

Do more with your mobile.

Don’t miss your chance to ask the experts how to make the most of your mobile. At our 3Assist event, you’ll learn how to keep connected with your friends and family.

Places are limited so book today.

Visit 3Store The Square, Ennis now to book your spot.

10 NEWS

THURSDAY, JAN 10 2019

Homeless men 'hurt' by priest's ban

Pair claim they were told to 'disappear' from Church but praise Clare residents' kindness

T

news@clareecho.ie

the money themselves. It’s a very lovely town”.

When night comes, he feels safe but tries to be alert when he hears noise.

“I am homeless and you have to be very careful, you sleep like a cat.

“Three nights ago I slept [at a location on O'Connell Street] then some lady, a very lovely lady gives me chips, chicken, coke and cigarettes. I said that was enough but she said ‘No’ and gave me all the change in coins. At two o’clock in the morning, I was sleeping outside and the Guards come, ‘Peter wake up’... they said ‘you have to move’ and it was raining”.

At Christmas, he was invited to the home of Josephine O’Brien where “I had a lot of food”. He is also thankful to Pat Cahill of St Vincent de Paul’s Laurel Lodge for allowing him to use their facilities.

“Every second day I go for

a shower and shave”.

Following instances of drinking, smoking, and urinating in Ennis Cathedral, Fr Tom Ryan adopted a zero tolerance policy to any individual frequenting the Cathedral or its grounds. According to Peter who attended Mass every morning, “He is like the movie Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. Dr Jekyll in the Church, Mr Hyde in the street. In Dunnes Stores he shook my hand and I said to him ‘excuse me, 20 minutes ago you pushed me out from church, now you shake my hand?’."

Peter hopes someday to live in a one-bedroom apartment with a kitchen and bathroom. “I need just a one bed apartment, that’s it. I don’t care which part in Ennis, maybe Limerick, maybe Dublin or Donegal I don’t mind”.

Tomasz agrees with Peter’s criticism of Fr Tom

WO homeless men living in Ennis have criticised the stance taken

by Fr Tom Ryan in telling them “to disappear” from the Cathedral grounds but have praised the people of Clare for their kindness.

On Tuesday night, The Clare Echo sat down with Peter and Tomasz, two Polish natives that sleep on the streets of the county town. Their location varies depending on the weather and they are grateful to the generous people that provide them with food, duvets and clothes.

Forty-one year old Peter was the best friend of Josef Pavelka, the Czech national who slept intermittently in the public toilets of Ennis and was found dead in a laneway six years ago. In the past he has attended residential programmes for alcohol addiction and is currently on a three month suspended sentence of which he has ten days left, “It is my fault I am homeless”, he stated.

From 2007 to 2013, he has lived in Ennis. After the death of Josef he moved to Limerick City for two years, then returning to Poland for a few months before coming back to Clare. “I’ve been homeless in Limerick and Ennis but I prefer to be l IN GOOD SPIRITS: Tomasz (right) with our reporter homeless in Ennis because Páraic McMahon and (below) a tent in Ennis show the the people in Ennis are grim conditions which local homeless must sleep in very friendly, they let me sleep here, they give me food, tobacco, cigarettes, coins. I love Ennis”.

His daily routine sees Peter wake at 7am and tidy up his belongings. He explained what he does for the rest of the day, “I spend six hours sitting in the street outside Dunnes Stores or wherever, smoking a cigarette, the people give me small coins.

I don’t ask, I just sit and smoke, the people give me

Ryan but unlike him, he has no aspirations to be off the streets. “I am a street man, I love my life and I don’t need accommodation. I love my life and I am happy absolutely”.

He has been in Ennis for 12 years having previously worked in Galway, Longford and Killarney. “Ennis people are absolutely perfect, they know me, I know them and I don’t mind if they are Travellers or settled people, I know lots of people and I love them, Ennis is the best town in this country”.

Like Peter, Tomasz is a Roman Catholic who has been angered by the comments expressed by Fr Ryan. “He said ‘say to your friends, tell them you must disappear from the Cathedral’, claims Tomasz.

"As a homeless man it was very sad to be kicked like a dog. I am a Catholic and no-one will move me like that, I don’t want to fight with him, I miss Fr Hogan very much, he was a good guy, he gave me accommodation and told me that he would help me and I would help him, it was as simple as that”.

However he has no intention of developing a bad relationship with the former Shannon parish priest. “I don’t want to be an enemy of his...I would like to shake his hand. I love the Irish people, I have lots of friends around. I love the people around the Church, they know me, I know them, they are absolutely brilliant. I know I am homeless but when someone would tell you to get out it’s not nice”.

Despite being on the streets, Tomasz manages to stay updated on current affaird. He felt Clare County Council could have better spent the €1.75m which was the cost of the Ennis Market building. “When the Council built the white shed in the Market for nearly €2m, I don’t mind it’s not my money they should have built some-

l PAGHJKITY: Peter, who sleeps at various locations around Ennis, says it "is my fault I am homeless". He was best friends with fellow homeless man Josef Pavelka who was tragically found dead in a laneway six years ago

‘‘

I miss Fr Hogan very much, he was a good guy, he gave me accommodation and told me that he would help me and I would help him, it was as simple as that

thing for the homeless women, it’s important but they built that”.

When speaking about the generosity he encounter in Clare, Tomasz recalled, “When Fr Hogan was there twice I slept at the front of the parish office. There a child with a lady, she was five years old and she woke me and said ‘I’ve got something for you’, I looked at her, this five year old child with her mother beside her, she said ‘I’ve got a tenner for you’, I told her I could not accept it because she was a child but the mother said ‘When she wants to give you something, accept it’."

It is less than six years since the death of Josef Pavelka.

His Funeral Mass was cele-

‘‘

PÁRAIC McMAHON

brated by Fr Ger Fitzgerald who in his homily stated, “We need to work with each other to improve on the wonderful work already happening. We need to unite to ensure what happened to Josef will not happen to anyone else. To those in power here in Ennis and in Ireland, I ask you, I plead with you on my knees, to you as a representative of Jesus here in Ennis, I ask you to please review the policies we have towards the homeless and the weak.”

The Clare Echo’s attempts to contact Fr Tom Ryan were unsuccessful, a spokesperson for the Ennis Parish Office said, “Fr Tom is out of the country and unable to comment at this particular time”.

HomeGallery-WinterSale-CC-FPG-9119.qxp_Layout 1 09/01/2019 15:13 Page 2

WINTER SALE

NOW ON • NOW ON • NOW ON • NOW ON • NOW ON was €2,195 now

€1495 was €1,490

now

€999 robyn 4 seater, was €1,490 now €999 full range available

carrara corner group

UP TO

tangiers corner sofa, was €2295, now €1,495

the billie corner sofa, was €1995, now €1,395

CHOICE OF COLOURS

2m solid oak table was €1395

now

€795

solid oak bench was €499

now

€299 luxury norma corner group was €2,495 now €1,595

now

€299 oslo sofa table was €219

dining chair was €189

now

now

€139

€129

oslo solid oak dining 1.6m table was €1,395 now €695

oslo solid oak occasional range

Open Mon - Sat 9.30am-6pm Sunday 1pm-5pm

50%

30% - 50% off aLL BeD Linen

oslo nest was €499

off

I N T E R I O R S was €130 now €65

up to 50% off Dorma BeD Linen

Kilrush Rd, Ennis Ph: 065 6797040

12 COLUMNIST

THURSDAY, JAN 10 2019

Aoibhín Garrihy LOVE CLARE Take it easy in January THE NOTEBOOK

I

T’S back to the grind for most this week and while some are happy to be back to their normal routine I’m mindful that January can be a very tough month for some people. It’s naturally colder, various bugs, colds and flus are going around and blue Monday is a thing! Just know you’re not alone if you’re not feeling 100% at this time of year. It’s quite normal and this too will pass. Be kind to yourself and ease yourself back to a work, health or fitness regime. We are still in hibernation mode by nature so take it easy!

We returned with our January series of BEO last weekend popping up at Kildare Village for BEO Bites and then we had our first event in Northern Ireland for Nollaig na mBan. This weekend sees BEO at the Armada and the Strand Hotel in Clare and Limerick with lots of new elements and motivational speakers for the year ahead.

I’m delighted to be Knight and Day jewellery’s brand ambassador for a fourth season this year and we shot the SS19 collection on Monday. It’s so lovely to work with a fantastic Irish brand and a creative team that are so passionate about making each collection stand out. Stay tuned for this season’s lookbook.

This week I have teamed up with Lloyd’s Pharmacy to launch their “Change your health direction”

HAPPENINGS DOOLIN WRITERS’ WEEKEND

The seventh annual Doolin Writers’ Weekend takes place on the 25th-27th January 2019 with workshops, readings, advice from industry insiders, music sessions, open mic and wonderful food and hospitality from the Hotel Doolin Team all weekend long. Weekend tickets are available on www.ticketweb.ie

RUN CLARE

4 Races, 4 Months, 1 Goal. The first race (5km) is in East Clare on Saturday 25th January at 11am. For more details visit runclare.ie

GLÓR DOCUMENTARY DAY

glór has recently launched documentary day dedicated to the best Irish and International documentaries and this Saturday will see “Katie” screened at 3pm. This film unravels the deeply personal reasons behind Katie Taylor’s career low and shows the champion’s grit and determination to start over as a professional included a post show discussion with director Ross Whitaker.

programme which is a Free 8-week health programme across their 91 stores...so whatever your health goals are, LloydsPharmacy will provide you with free advice and

l BEO IN CLARE AND LIMERICK: This week sees the Armada and the Strand Hotels host BEO

tips to help you reach your individual target, no matter how big or small. It’s a great initiative and one I’m delighted to be involved with.

COVET IN

CLARE

SUSTAINABLE SHOPPING I love the idea of bringing your own containers and cutting back on packaging which is why a trip to Meanwell in Ennis is well worth a trip. This Biomarket sells their food products from dispensers so you can make it your eco-friendliest buy yet! New Years Resolution sorted.

IT’S A TONIC Nature’s Plus Source Of Life Gold Liquid is the ultimate in liquid multivitamin supplements. Packed with vitamins and over 120 wholefoods Gold liquid provides you with a guaranteed burst of energy and recharges your system as well as helping you to maintain overall optimum levels of health. Available at most health food stores.

BABY BOOM For new moms, babies and toddlers, Lidl and Aldi have special promotions in store from today through to Monday for all your little one’s needs. Everything from nursery furniture to feeding apparatus. Pop in store or online to see the full range.

LAYER IT Sale season is in full swing and with further reductions in Carraig Donn now is a good time to nab a bargain on items you know will see you through these colder months. I’m a big fan of this particular check bonded coat now €44.97 TASTES LIKE HOME Winner of this year’s Cookbook of the Year at the National Book Awards, The Currabinny Cookbook celebrates traditional food with contemporary twists, sumptuously cooked in an unashamed celebration of flavour. Available at most bookshops now.

COLUMNIST 13

THURSDAY, JAN 10 2019

Top 5

1

Top Five Ways to Get Active in Clare

Looking for a little inspiration to help you get that body moving this January, Co Clare has some incredible offerings beyond your local gym or gaa club (whilst those offerings are also wonderful). I’ve compiled a list of some local facilities that are worth trying for something a little different.

OPERATION GET CLARE ACTIVE..

SOCIAL DANCE...

3

2

An initiative takes place each January for an eight week period, led by Clare Sports Partnership. This year they are operating out of 4 centres – Ennis, Shannon, Killaloe and Ennistymon. The theme of the programme is “walking for fitness” and on the 12th January they team up with Operation Transformation to host a 5km Walk as part of the National Walk at the Lissycasey Cascades at 11am for the walk of the year. Why not join and begin your own walk towards fitness.

As Dancing with the Stars returns to our screens the nation’s love affair with social dance is once again ignited but why not be a participant rather than a spectator! Shallwedance.ie offers group dance classes all around the county. Those happy endorphins released when you bust a move are like no other!

5

YOGA...

FAMILY ADVENTURE WALKS...

We all know how difficult it can be to get the kids to join you in the great outdoors but introduce some innovation in the form of the “Adventure Walks Clare” App and take part in a treasure hunt game as you walk or run some of the counties’ loveliest trails. Suitable for children from 6 years and available in the following areas (number of trails in brackets): Lees Road (8) Killaloe (6) Spanish Point (2) Cratloe (6) Ballybeg (4) Lisdoonvarna (2) Kilrush (8) 12 O’Clock Hills (6) Mountshannon (8) Kilkee (2) Mooghaun Hilfort (8) Dromore (8) Flagmount (4) Lahinch (2) Lissycasey (6)

4

MARTIAL ARTS...

There are many benefits to training martial arts, not least of which are physical, mental, and spiritual in nature.

It is a fantastic way to build resilience, an inner self confidence and core morals and values while helping one attain a unique level of physical fitness. With classes ranging from young to old and a strong anti bullying campaign, check out Banner Martial Arts and Fitness for more details.

As January can be a stressful time of year for people, finding a gentle form of physical activity may be what’s needed to ease you in and not adding to stress levels. Yoga can be a wonderful way to relieve stress while increasing flexibility, muscle strength and tone and improving energy and vitality. With studios all across the county, it’s accessible in most areas and definitely worth a try!

14 INTERACTIVE

THURSDAY, JAN 10 2019

A new era of

INTERACTION twitter.com/ ClareEcho

facebook.com/ clareecho

instagram.com/ theclareecho

Facebook comment of the week

‘‘

Pádraig The public toilets at Ennis bus/train Moc Ambrois station are a disgrace! Pure filth, in reaction to our the entrance doors are covered in story about five grime.. families being accomodated at Cusack Lodge

www.clareecho.ie

Tweet of the week AILBHE

@horsebox1986

So my wife has her 20 week scan on one of the proposed strike days for nurses and midwives.

We have both agreed that we will join them at the picket line if it goes ahead. Our family is important but so are theirs. #NusesStrike

TRENDING ON OUR WEBSITE: CLAREECHO.IE

Ennis no longer Ireland’s Cleanest Town ENNIS has gone from being Ireland’s cleanest town to the 22nd cleanest town in the space of a year.

According to the final litter survey of 2018 by business group Irish Business Against Litter (IBAL), Ennis is ‘Clean’ but has slipped to 22nd spot in the ranking of 40 town and cities. While almost all of Ireland’s main towns are clean, pockets of our cities continue to be littered and are not improving.

An Taisce, who carry out the surveys on behalf of IBAL, commented in its Ennis report: “A small number of littered sites was enough to take Ennis down the rankings in 2018.

By far the most heavily littered was Ennis Train and Bus Station as well as scattered litter. There were areas of heavy accumulations, especially where the buses reverse to park.

“Some of the top ranking sites included Ennis Tourist Office & Franciscan Church, Roselevan Shopping Centre, O’Connell Street and Market Square / Market Place / Lower Market Street – these areas were not just good with regard to litter but also well presented and maintained.” The town was deemed to be clean to European norms.

Minister for Communications, Climate Action and Environment Richard Bruton, will present the awards

at a ceremony crowning Fermoy as the cleanest town among those STORY REACHED OVER ranked according to litter levels in 8,000 PEOPLE ON OUR 2018, with Waterford City again IreFACEBOOK PAGE land’s cleanest city.

He said, “Combating litter is part of a much wider challenge how we use our resources effectively and adapt to recognise environmental damage more generally. Litter is a very tangible, visible example of the kind of damage that is being done. It is vital that communities, businesses and local authorities in towns all across Ireland, work together to manage waste properly and reduce litter. I hope the recognition these awards provide spur others on to come together to make changes in their local areas.”

Fermoy’s success, last achieved in 2007, will be marked by a specially commissioned public sculpture in the town this year to the value of €40,000. Just under 90% of towns surveyed were deemed clean, a slight improvement on the previous year, with Athlone and Killarney finishing just behind Fermoy. While Galway City registered its best result in years, almost half of city areas were littered, among them Ballybane in Galway and Dublin’s North Inner City, which were both l DROP: Ennis fell from top spot down to 22nd while still rated ‘clean to European norms’ ‘seriously littered’.

Entertainment

DOOLIN HOSTS MUSICAL MINDS ANTHONY HART news@clareecho.ie

n MUSICAL MINDS Hotel Doolin, Jan 19

T

O THE naked eye, you’d be forgiven for thinking that the people of West Clare eat, drink, sleep, breath and live for Trad, but scratch just a little beneath the surface, and you will uncover a myriad of exciting new music and artists, enhancing the aural landscape of the Wild Atlantic Way. The Music Minds Festival is set to take place in Hotel Doolin, a venue as charming in its eccentricities as the event itself is sure to be.

The brainchild behind this new venture is Simon O’Reilly. A dublin born musician, composer and producer, who has spent the last 20 years living in Lahinch, he hopes this will be the beginning of many more similar events to cater for the people of the area and beyond in the off season months. The Idea came

from seeing different kinds of ways of running festivals from all over the world. Not just solely an entertainment type thing, but something more interactive. A place where you can go and enjoy a gig, but also somewhere to share new progressive idea’s, to learn and discover the advances in modern music as a whole. Not any one particular genre, but more how different tools can be used to express yourself through any kind of music.

An idea is a start, but going from the foundations to the observation deck on a brand new probect takes a navigational skill set that only one man could provide.

Peter O’Brien is the co-founder (along with O’Reilly) of the Music Minds Festival.

A seasoned events organizer and social entrepreneur, Peter is also the founder of “Happenings”, a wide range of events nationwide from music festivals and shows, open air cinema and yoga classes to social debates and causes.

His expertise in such events has opened up a labyrinth of possibilities with regards to what this new type of festival could become.

As well as live performances from artists such as David Kitt

HART AT

HOME The Clare Echo’s roving reporter Anthony Hart heads to Vancouver to speak with Evan Murphy, an Ennis native and UL graduate who left Ireland in 2014 AH: So Evan, tell us, how did you end up in Vancouver?

EM: Haha, yeah, it’s a bit of a trek alright but I’ve been here nearly five years now so there’s an element of homeliness about it. I mean, originally I came over on a 2 year visa after college, but I got quite lucky with a job offer and the company I’m with offered to sponsor me here at the end of my visa so I decided to stay on, which I’m happy about at the moment.

SO WHAT IS IT THAT YOU DO? I was really lucky. Basically when I arrived, I started a job in construction, spent three days on a site training and then got a call for an interview to work in sound and video editing for Ocean Media here in the city, who specialise in audio replacement and editing for a lot of japanese animated tv shows.

WHAT DOES THE WORK ENTAIL? I am now Senior Video Editor. We re-dub all the english speaking script,

work with certain audio and visual special effects and sometimes have to edit certain things out that may not translate for a western audience. For example, things like guns can look or sound too real for censors in the north american market, so we edit out the artwork and replace them with “laser blasters” or something like that. Its really enjoyable.

YOU SEEM HAPPY, WOULD YOU CONSIDER COMING BACK TO IRELAND? Ireland is home. Right now I’m quite enjoying my time here, work is great and the lifestyle is so different. Honestly, Ireland will definitely be the final destination, but the timeline is uncertain.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT CANADA? I think Vancouver is a really unique city in so many ways. Firstly, during the summer, the city is on a beach and miles of coastline. You can leave work and meet up with everyone and have a beach BBQ for the evening, it’s so laid back and everyone is on the same buzz. Then in winter, the best thing is

(pictured right), Rónán Ó Snodaigh, The Mud Bubble, Solkatt and RSAG, the day long festival will feature workshops, panel discussions and debates with a focus on the emerging advancements in technology in the music industry and how these can not only harmoniously exist alongside, but enhance the age old practice of voice and instrumentally driven music.

Anyone familiar with the West Clare coastline can only agree that a more fitting setting for exploring new creative outlets will not be found. The rolling hills o n the outskirts of Doolin, heading back towards the breathtaking views from atop the cliffs of moher serve to inspire what is sure to be the first of many years of the Music Minds Festival, which O’Reilly says is the the aim.

“Hopefully, we can extend to a two or three day event if this one is successful.

Hotel Doolin have been really supportive through the whole process.

We’ve had some backing from IMRO as well which is great. The artists understand what we’re trying to create, and are totally on board.”

With an international airport less than an hour away and Irelands renown for incredible hospitality, the scope for a festival like this going forward is sure to draw international crowds in the coming years. So above all, make sure you get in on it at ground level, before the crowds swell and camping space along the beach becomes minimal.

With Tiny Dancers for Kids taking to the stage during the day, and plenty for all ages to enjoy across the full programme, any one with an incurable case of the post Christmas/ January blues will find solice in a more alternative musical extravaganza.

Tickets are generously well priced at just €35 for an all inclusive package which includes all workshops, discussions, film viewings and the evening performance.

There are also family packages available and evening and day pass only tickets, all of which can be purchased @ eventbrite.ie.

having something to look forward just after all the christmas atmosphere dies down. Some of the best ski slopes in the world are 30 mins outside the city.

I’ve really got into snowboarding since I got here so I really look forward to that.

ANYTHING AT ALL YOU DISLIKE? Honestly, the only thing I can think of right now is table service in bars (laughs)! I guess, just because it’s such a different experience from what we’d be used to in Ireland. You can’t just walk into a bar here and go to the counter and order four pints. You have to be seated and wait to order, and then the same for every round. Of course, trust an Irish man to find some sort of thing thing to complain about!

LASTLY EVAN, WHAT DO YOU MISS MOST ABOUT IRELAND? Good Guiness, chicken rolls, twister ice creams, Meanies, Moros…oh and friends and family I guess!! Seriously though, just the people. The last time I came home to visit, I was coming through passport control in Shannon, and the guard barely even looked at my passport, just had a glance, said “Welcome Home Evan” and waved me on. It’s just that warmth and familiarity among Irish people that I really love.

It’s truly unique.

Jan 19 - Feb 23 JUMP / Cléa van der Grijn The Courthouse Gallery & Studios is delighted to welcome artist Cléa van der Grijn’s new exhibition JUMP. JUMP is a newly commissioned body of work consisting of a series of new paintings by the artist as well as an ambitious film work written and directed by van der Grijn and created with collaborators Joseph P. Hunt, Michael Cummins and Ciaran Carty.

This exhibition is possible thanks to the Arts Council Touring Award.

Brought to You Despite ... Sadbh Gaston Clare native Sadhbh Gaston’s debut solo exhibition at The Courthouse Gallery & Studios Red Couch Space unites recent works that investigate the artist’s interest in agricultural production and methods of art making, bringing together pieces that collectively explore the global textile industry and historical food production in Ireland.

Using mixed media including screen printing and embroidery, Gaston’s approach encompasses precise execution to make works that scrutinise contemporary and ancient aspects of clothing and food. Opening reception Friday, Jan 18, 7.30pm

16 THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

THURSDAY, JAN 10 2019

Ronan Scully

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK Author spreading the word of positivity

ALWAYS TRY TO “DO GOOD”

A

T THE START of each new year I always try to dedicate the year to kindness and trying to be kind to people and to try and treat people the way I would like to be treated. Also I look or try to imagine ways I can “Do Good” for the good of others during the coming year. Another thing I am always mindful at this time of the year is of what Abraham Lincoln once said: “Kindness is the only service that will stand the storms of life and not wash out. It will wear well and be remembered long after the prism of politeness or the complexion of courtesy has faded away. When I am gone, I hope it can be said of me that I plucked a thistle and planted a flower wherever I thought a flower would grow.”

In the quest to create a gentler, more loving world, kindness is the easiest tool we can use. Though it is easy to overlook opportunities to be kind, our lives are full of situations in which we can be helpful, considerate, thoughtful, caring, loving and friendly to loved ones as well as strangers.

The touching, selfless acts of kindness that have the most profoundly uplifting effects are often the simplest: a word of praise, a gentle touch, a helping hand, a gesture of courtesy, a listening ear, a warm friendly letter or email, the lighting of a prayer candle, a hug or a smile.

Do Good

Helping and been kind to others is not only a good thing to do, it also makes us happier. Giving also connects us to others and helps to build a happier society for everyone. And it’s not all about money, we can also give of our time and energy. So if you want to feel good, do good! Doing things for others, whether small, unplanned acts or regular volunteering is a powerful way to boost our own happiness as well of those around us. The people we help may be strangers, family, friends, colleagues or neighbors. They can be old or young, nearby or far away. Giving to others can be as simple as a single kind word, smile or a thoughtful gesture. It can include giving time, care, skills, thought or attention. Acts of kindness increases life satisfaction provides a sense of meaning, increases feelings of competence, improves our mood and reduced stress. It can help to take our minds off our own troubles too.

Giving to others helps us connect with people and meets one of our basic human needs - relatedness. Kindness and caring also seem to be contagious. When we see someone do something kind or thoughtful, or we are on the receiving end of kindness, it inspires us to be kinder ourselves.

Kindness and selfless giving really are the key to creating a happier, more trusting community. So this year I am deliberately going to try and nourish my soul with acts of kindness. The following is a list of acts of kindness that we can all do and you can add to the list if you want. ‘Say “I love you” to the people you love. Hold the door open for the person behind you. Let someone out in front of you in traffic. Give something to the homeless or a charity in need especially if you can, your time.

Write a thank you note to one of your teachers or someone that supported you in the past or present and let them know how grateful you are for them. Call a friend you haven’t spoken to in a while.

Put some money in the parking meter or on the cafe bill for the next person.

Help the elderly and parents with small children. Thank the men and women in uniform. Smile and say hello to a complete stranger. Pay someone’s toll. Be kind to people and animals. Pick up a bill in a restaurant. Volunteer in your community.

Practice gratitude everyday and simply be kind. Take a minute to direct someone who is lost. Offer to pick up groceries for an elderly neighbor.

Forgive someone a debt–and never bring it up again. Listen with all your senses. Help as much as you can the most vulnerable and needy in our society. Write a note to the boss of someone who helps you, and explain how great a job that person is doing. Simply say “I’m sorry” when you’re wrong. Encourage someone who seems despondent. Ask someone “How are you really doing?”—and then really listen to there response. Do good as much as you can. Add to your own list of acts of kindness you can do this year.

Leave Footprints of Kindness

As the saying goes, “Many people will walk in and out of your life, but only true friends will leave footprints in your heart.” The fruit of all true life practices is kindness, kindness to others and also to ourselves. It is easy to speak and read

about kindness, it is another to make it into your flesh and bones. In most cases, kindness is not beyond any of us because it usually costs no money. It may take the sacrifice of time and energy. It may require the discipline to be thoughtful of other’s needs and to make the effort to act.

How much is required to cultivate smiling rather than frowning, to pay a visit, to say

a word of encouragement or comfort, to show friendliness by warmly and sincerely shaking hands or giving a hug to someone? The consequences of kindness are incalculable, for such a spirit can ripple out to touch the lives of those far removed from the original act.

Kindness sows the seeds that can only bear good fruit. Kindness should begin with our family and close friends. Ironically and tragically, many people display their most unkind behavior with the ones they should love the most. Kindness is not a selfish attempt to get something for ourselves. It is a show of mercy and love to other human beings with no thought of reward. May we all develop the same type of love and kindness God has for us. Remember as Scott Adams once said, “there’s no such thing as a small act of kindness.

Every act creates a ripple with no logical end.”

Can you imagine a world where no one gave to each other? Where we all just

looked after our own needs and ignored everyone else’s? This would surely be a miserable place to live, for ultimately, whether spontaneous or planned, we cannot be happy without being kind, by giving, loving and caring for each other. Acts of kindness are essential to our well-being, as they liberate us from self-obsession, selfishness, and isolation. They are the effect of an open and loving nature. True generosity is giving without expectation, with no need to be repaid in any form.

This is the most powerful act of generosity, as it is unconditional, unattached, and free to land wherever it will.

Whether we give to our family, friends, or to strangers, it is the same. We may feel we have little to offer, but whether it is a few pennies or a whole bankroll, a cup of tea or a banquet is irrelevant. It is the act of giving itself that is important. As Mahatma Gandhi said, “Almost anything kind we do will seem insignificant, but it is very important that we do it.” Acts of kindness makes us feel good, valuable and alive.

Think about the last time you went out of your way to be kind to someone. Didn’t it make your day too? Many people extend kindness as part of their good nature, but what if we made a more conscious effort to be even kinder by practicing kindness regularly? We will be spreading good feelings and making a difference that has a lasting, ripple effect and undoubtedly changing the world. Practice kindness while expecting nothing in return except the good feelings that these acts provide is life-giving and can also be life-saving.

Thought for the week

As your thought for the week, make it your goal and habit to be actively looking for opportunities to show kindness and “Do Good”, to one another and to others when it is possible and needed. Practice genuine kindness as much as you can in your daily life and ‘plant flowers’ and ‘warm people’s hearts’ wherever you can!

Three things in human life are important: the first is to be kind; the second is to be kind; and the third is to be kind. No act of kindness is ever wasted. And always remember that compassion has no limit and kindness has no enemy. Be kind and “Do Good”, always or as much as you can!!

COMMUNITY 17

THURSDAY, JAN 10 2019

Community

CONTACT NEWSDESK

065 671 9021 news@clareecho.ie

EAST CLARE TOURISM EAST CLARE AGM Tourism East Clare will hold their 2nd AGM on Wednesday, 23rd January 2019 in the Kilkishen Cultural Centre at 7:30pm. Open Meeting: Official Election - Members only. For further information, email: secretary@ visiteastclare.ie

NORTH CLARE

l GIVE IT A TRI: Representing Ennis Triathlon club at the Ironman Tallinn in Estonia last year in Estonia (l-r) Gearoid Howard, Jason Hanrahan, Alison Rooney, Mick Rooney, Donal Hartigan, Barry Deane, Ray Hynes, James McMahon, Oliver McInerney, John Cahill (West Clare Tri Club), Ger Griffin, and Brian McCarthy

ENNIS TRIATHLON CLUB OPEN DAY As we enter into a new year, many seek the right sport to help keep fit, and for those looking to try something different, Ennis Triathlon Club offers just that, giving people the chance to explore three sports in one.

On Sunday January 13, Ennis Triathlon Club invites newcomers and those interested in doing their first triathlon, duathlon or multi-sport event to an open day at Barefield Community Hall (Barefield National School).

The afternoon will include an introduction to triathlon, and those in attendance will get an opportunity to sam-

ple the various disciplines of triathlon training including cycling, running, and core strength and conditioning, with facilitators on hand. Beginners can chat with Ennis Tri Club members who will be on hand to lend any advice on the day about how they can get started. Older juniors are also very welcome to attend.

Ennis Triathlon club provides swimming (pool and open water), cycling and running training for over 140 members, who go on to compete in triathlons. The club caters for all levels of ability from triathlon beginners to those contemplating Ironman events.

More information is available at www.ennistriclub.com and https://www.facebook.com/ennistriclub/.

Put the house in order WITH financial support from the Community Fund for Ireland, and in association with the Irish Hospice Foundation, Clare Older People’s Council will run and host a series of seminars over the next five months, called “Putting the House in Order.”

The seminar will include a presentation on ‘Enduring Power of Attorney’ by local solicitor Sharon Cahir, and a presentation by Rebecca Lloyd of the Irish Hospice Foundation on planning ahead so that those closest to you will know and un-

derstand what your wishes are.

The first seminar will take place in the Waterpark Building, Drumbiggle Road, Ennis on Wednesday January 23 from 11am. It’s FREE, but places are limited so booking is essential by phoning 065 684 6240.

NORTH CLARE HISTORICAL SOCIETY The North Clare Historical Society will host its first lecture of the 2019 season on Monday, January 14with a talk entitled Human activity and woodland history: new insights from recent research in the Burren and the Aran Islands by Professor Michael O’Connell.

In this lecture, the history of the flora of the Burren and the Aran Islands will be explored. The evidence is derived from fossil evidence and especially that obtained through the study of fossil pollen that is preserved in lakes and bogs. During the last Ice Age, the Burren and the Aran Islands were covered for considerable time by thick ice sheets with the result that no plant life could have survived. Using data derived from investigating fossil-pollen records we can now reconstruct with considerable detail the sequence of spread of herbaceous and woody plants as temperatures rose.

Later, with the arrival of humans and especially the first farmers in the Neolithic period (almost 6000 years ago), a fundamental change took place in that humans rather than natural forces now assumed prime importance in determining the vegetation and indeed the landscape generally.

Venue: The Courthouse Gallery, Ennistymon Time: 8pm. All are welcome

18 COLUMNISTS

with Cian O’Broin

1967 T

HIS 52-part series looks at the best and brightest of Clare’s years along with its deepest and darkest. Travelling back in time to 1967 all the way up to 2019, each week we shall revisit three or four moments that defined the year in Co Clare. Renowned for its deeply seeded roots in traditional Irish culture from music and pub-life to its fierce passion for the GAA, not to mention the friendly nature of its people. This is Clare as we know it. But was it always like this? Our first stop takes us back more than half a century ago, to the year 1967.

SHANNON BECOMES A PARISH The sixties marked a time of great change. A time of defiance followed by unification. The hippie movement took great precedence worldwide. A coming together of mankind through love and expression. Shannon, County Clare was no exception to this. Shannon’s industrial nature was epitomised by its transatlantic Airport and the establishment of the Industrial Estate in the 1950s. These two attractions acted as magnets, drawing many people into the area in search of work and housing. Continued growth led to building of schools and churches and on Christmas Eve of 1967 Bishop Michael Harty created the Parish of Shannon. Shannon Airport also offered the only helicopter training course in Ireland in 1967. Students learned the ins and outs of flight theory, navigation and meteorology in a classroom setting before taking to the skies where flight time exceeded 75 hours!

JACKIE KENNEDY COMES TO CLARE

In politics, Ireland’s long-standing affinity with American presidents was highlighted when the recently widowed Jackie Kennedy arrived on a family vacation in Ireland during the summer of 1967.

Her excursion took her to Dublin to dine with President Eamon De Valera in Dublin Castle.

Following her business in the capital, Mrs Kennedy and her family visited the iconic Bunratty Castle where she attended a medieval banquet hosted by Viscount Lord Gort and his wife.

She bid farewell to thronging crowds at Shannon Airport shortly after. Mrs. Kennedy praised the Irish people for their warmness and hospitality.

LUST-FILLED LISDOONVARNA Oh Lisdoonvarna. There’s something in the air over there. The hijinks of the Lisdoonvarna matchmaking festival are well documented to us in modern times. It was no different in 1967 as a report from the small sea side resort lays out. Many prominent members of the clergy visited for the sulphur manganese baths to aid various muscular conditions. One priest takes note of the increasingly late antics of holidaymakers, often found carousing the place until the early hours of the morning. Midnight curfews something of the past. Known for its chaotic atmosphere and casual matchmaking we can safely say that Lisdoonvarna hasn’t changed a bit!

GOLDEN YEARS OF NEWMARKET GAA 1967 proved an unsuccessful year for Clare in inter-county hurling. Clare suffered a 4-12 to 2-6 defeat at the hands of Tipperary, who eventually fell short to the omnipotent Kilkenny in the All Ireland Hurling Championship final later that year. The clash between Clare and Tipp took place on neutral ground in County Limerick on 30 July 1967. Despite great squad depth facilitated by the resurgent force of Newmarket GAA’s hurling team through the late 1960s, Clare were outplayed by Tipperary. At club level however, Newmarket floored rivals Clarecastle in the final on November 5 winning 3-10 to 2-4. Their 1967 success was repeated twice more in the following two years, marking a period of total domination in the Clare league.

To conclude, 1967 wasn’t an overly busy year in Clare’s history but it marked some important changes in the evolution of the county such as Shannon officially announced as a Parish. We see a seamless love for hurling throughout our timeline and an appreciation for American celebrity culture even before the explosive nature of cell phones and modern mass media technologies. Check back next week as we look on to the nuts and bolts of what made 1968 a great year for County Clare.

Eoin Neylon

An inside look at Clare’s political spectrum

Brexit resolution could spark general election

T

HE dawning of a new year usually brings with it much promise.

Whether these are promises of going to the gym more or cutting out certain things form one’s diet, or perhaps quitting a nasty habit.

Whatever these promises are, for many, they will be empty promises. Some might draw the parallel that this makes New Year’s Resolutions akin to political promises in that case. I though, am not as cynical to say such a thing.

2019 though is a political year which promises quite several things we can be sure it will deliver. First off, we’re guaranteed at least two elections this year. I speak of course of the local and European elections which will both take place on May 24 of this year. However, that doesn’t mean we won’t see a General Election at some point this year as well.

Secondly, we’re certainly going to see changes in the personnel that make up the Government. An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, has indicated that he’ll have a reshuffle of his Cabinet in Summer meaning that even if there is no general election, we’re certain to see a few new faces.

Then there are the less clear promises, like a resolution to the Brexit process. It’s a word and a process we’ve all become so weary with but, with only 40 working days to go at the time of writing, it’s set to dominate headlines for a couple of months yet.

Next week will show us how it might all be shaping up as UK Prime Minister Teresa May put the deal with the EU her Government negotiated before the House of Commons. If it is defeated there,

‘‘

then we’re into a chaotic few months ahead as the UK faces a decision to crash out of the EU without a deal, extend the Article 50 deadline to try negotiate something else, or suspend Brexit entirely.

The latter I don’t feel is a runner at this stage as the Conservatives have too much capital invested in Brexit to walk away from it now.

A lot depends on the UK Labour party though whose leader, Jeremy Corbyn, is a huge Brexit fan behind it all, contrary to many of his MPs. The polls over the weekend, however, showed that were he and Labour to back Brexit to the hilt, the public would abandon them at the polls come the next election. This might sharpen minds and convince enough Labour MPs to allow May’s deal to pass so that the Tories get saddled with the blame for any negative downturns from Brexit when it happens.

At home, the Government decided to set aside the entire month of March in the legislative program in order to facilitate emergency Brexit legislation which may be required.

This is a prudent move on the Government’s part and underlines the wise decision by Fianna Fáil’s Míchéal Martin to extend the Confidence and Supply agreement for the country to have a stable Government through the Spring. Had we faced an election at the end of this month, we would likely still be locked in coalition of confidence and supply talks post-election, right as the Brexit mess reached its crescendo. For the moment, Leo’s Government gets a reprieve from events across

Should Martin fail to make FF the largest party in Leinster House, his time as leader will be over

‘‘

REELING IN THE YEARS

THURSDAY, JAN 10 2019

the Irish Sea. How long that lasts is yet to be seen. If there is a definitive outcome to Brexit in March, then Martin’s reason for extending the deal expires and FF are free to pull the plug as and when they like.

They will not want to do so just eight weeks ahead of the local and European elections though, which should serve as an accurate barometer of party support. If either Fianna Fáil or Fine Gael do particularly well, expect their respective party leaders to call time on the 32nd Dáil and go to the people for a mandate to form a new Government. Both will want to capitalise on whatever gains they may make in locals and look to bolster their numbers in the Dáil. For Martin, the risk is higher than that for Leo. Should Martin fail to make FF the largest party in Leinster House, his time as leader of Fianna Fáil will undoubtedly be over.

However, as stated, all this is depended on the turbulent Brexit process. Our future relationship with the UK is vital for the country and, in Clare, we’re somewhat fortunate to have the Minister for State for Trade, Employment, Business, EU Digital Single Market and Data Protection.

This is the most important portfolio, alongside Agriculture, in terms of Brexit and as such. Minster Pat Breen will no doubt have Clare front and centre of his mind as he looks to ensure that our trade with the UK remains as steady as possible. Not only that but given the fact that Ireland is a digital hub in Europe, keeping the UK’s 60 millions people and their online activities regulated from Ireland is vital in order to safe guard jobs, particularly if proposed data centres in the West of the country are going to be built. The Clare man will have his work cut out for him as one of the most busy and important members of the Government in the next few months. For the Banner, that can only be a good thing one should think.

20 JANUARY WEDDING GUIDE

GLEESON’S as good as GOLD

G

LEESON Goldsmiths is the perfect place to begin your journey as an engaged couple.

Gleeson Goldsmiths set themselves apart from the high street shop by offering a unique, bespoke and handmade product.

Five full-time goldsmiths are on hand to provide an expert service on all things jewellery and high quality is what they’re all about.

Brian Gleeson has been trading at the Ballycasey Craft & Design Centre, a unique shopping destination off Exit 7 of the M18, since 1981.

Brian tells The Clare Echo, “We make all our own engagement rings, wedding bands, bespoke jewellery, we do a lot of repairs, resetting, valuations, anything to do with jewellery, we do it and we can carry it all out here in our own workshop.”

Brian adds that Gleeson Goldsmiths are sensitive to shoppers’ budgets, and anybody can be catered for. “If you compare it to manufactured pieces, we’re not any more

expensive. We have rings for all price ranges and accommodate everybody. We do engagement rings starting for less than €1,000.

We usually can do something for you.”

And there’s also plenty for the casual shopper, including Gleeson Goldsmiths’ iconic Burren Collection.

For anyone who is planning on making a purchase, Brian says that while nothing can replicate a visit to the workshop and showroom, gleesongoldsmiths.ie is a good place to start.

“People are always surprised when they see our shop, how warm, cosy it is and how friendly the service is and that you just walk in, browse around and leave without feeling this pressure that you’ve to buy something.

“People can browse on our website and that gives a good insight to what we are. All our profiles are up there, it’s a very open and friendly website.”

Visit Gleeson Goldsmiths at Ballycasey Craft & Design Centre off Exit 7 of the M18 or visit the website at gleesongoldsmiths.ie.

22 JANUARY WEDDING GUIDE

Create a cohesive ensemble

C

‘Grooms should shop in the right season as trends, styles and colours will continually change’

LASSIC elegance and contemporary style in perfect balance – Patrick Bourke Menswear bring new life to seasonal tailoring for your special day. No matter what cut, colour or accessories you opt for, grooms should choose a suit that makes them feel great. After all, nothing looks as good as someone who feels confident in what they are wearing. This season Patrick Bourke Menswear introduce the new and exclusive mix and match wedding collections. This collection embodies with its fresh colours, classic styles and smart designs to suit and fit all sizes. An astute choice for all smart events, the new ‘Wedding Collections’ are tailored for both tapered or comfort fit. When it comes to finding the perfect suit for the groom and groomsmen, it’s no longer a case of one cut fits all. Unless you go completely bespoke, finding a suit that fits all groomsmen perfectly is going to be near on impossible, which is why mix and match collections are the perfect solution for weddings. Suiting takes its cue from seasonal colourway and cuts, and so too, should grooms when it comes to buying a wedding suit. Grooms should shop in the right season as trends, styles and colours will continually change.

While the suit is the main event, accessories shouldn’t be an afterthought. When it comes to mastering the mix and match style, accessories are the ideal way to inject colour and pattern into your bridal party style, without

everyone looking exactly the same. “A flash of a pocket square is the quickest way to spruce up a suit jacket for the big day. Even though they only peek out beneath your trousers, patterned socks can add the finishing touch to your suiting.” Waistcoats, too, can elevate your suiting. The three-piece is a classic style that’s enjoyed a resurgence in recent years and waistcoats have come to take centre stage. While some prefer to keep things classic with three matching pieces, the more dapper among us can embrace the contrast waistcoat with gusto. Modern wedding style is about creating a cohesive ensemble from head to toe, so footwear is equally as important. The right shoes are imperative when it comes to having a perfectly fitted suit, as the leg length and cuff will be tailored to accommodate footwear.

To book your appointment, you can contact our expert formal hire team in Ennis on (065) 684 4330 or Kilrush (065) 905 1166. Collections are available to view online at www.patrickbourkemenswear.ie

Inn at Dromoland’s Wedding coordinator of the year

T

HE BRIDES OF LIMERICK Wedding awards 2018 were held late last year at The Inn at Dromoland.

Over 200 people from the local wedding industry attended this lavish annual event, which serves to recognise the best of the best within their field.

From Wedding Planners to Hairdressers and Photographers to Wedding Venues, the cream of the crop were awarded for their achievements in the last 12 months.

The Inn at Dromoland have invested significantly in their wedding product over the last few years and launched their new wedding brochure last month. They were delighted to pick up two awards on the night – Most Stylish Wedding Venue 2018 and Claire Coughlan picked up the most coveted award – Wedding Co-Ordinator of the Year, in recognition of all the hard work her and her team put into all of the weddings at The Inn at Dromoland.

To book a wedding consultation with Claire, Please contact 061 368161.

Travel Counsellor Wins Honeymoon Specialist at 2018 Awards

C

www.travelcounsellors.ie/melanie.cahill

LARE travel expert Melanie Cahill has been named Honeymoon Specialist 2018 at the fourth annual Brides of Limerick Awards. The Miltown Malbay native, who has been part of Travel Counsellors, the leading independent travel specialists, for the past two years, won at the ceremony in The Inn at Dromoland, Co Clare, on 11 November.

The Brides of Limerick Awards welcomed 230 guests to celebrate the very best in wedding suppliers, from florists to venues. Customers were asked to vote online in each of the categories, with Melanie scooping Honeymoon Specialist due to her commitment to creating bespoke travel experiences for her clients.

Speaking on the award, Melanie said: “It was an incredible feeling to be named the Brides of Limerick Honeymoon Specialist 2018. I am so overjoyed and grateful; the award means so much to me on a personal and professional level.

“I am so honoured to receive such a huge acknowledgement for the work I put in to creating something special for each of my customers. I’d like to thank my clients, along with my family, friends and the Travel Counsellors team, who inspire me to be the best I can be.”

Cathy Burke, General Manager of Travel Counsellors Ireland, said: “We’re so proud of all of Melanie’s success at Travel Counsel-

lors. Melanie has been working in the travel industry for over 17 years and specialises in honeymoon travel, family holidays and group travel. Her efficiency and expertise have shone through with her clients and this is a truly deserved award.”

Travel Counsellors is an independent travel company whose global network of over 1,800 travel professionals deliver bespoke travel experiences to both the leisure and corporate markets. There are over 75 Travel Counsellors operating throughout Ireland offering unparalleled first-hand destination knowledge and industry expertise coupled with a work ethic which revolves around genuine care for the customer.

24 JANUARY WEDDING GUIDE

Beautiful Banner

The Old Ground Hotel unveils the newly refurbished banqueting suite

T

HE OLD GROUND HOTEL, Ennis unveiled its refurbished Banner Room banqueting suite earlier last year following a hugely significant €300,000 makeover.

The beautifully refurbished room combines the warmth of a country house with the luxury of a contemporary Irish hotel, offering soon-to-be brides and grooms a space to rival Ireland’s finest wedding venues.

A major factor in the decision to upgrade the Banner Room in the Flynn family owned property was the significant wedding trade seen by the hotel in recent times. Speaking about the project, proprietor of the Old Ground, Allen Flynn said “We now have a new focus on our very successful wedding market and a more discerning conference client, and decided it was time that the banqueting suite reflected this. The upgraded ballroom sees a more flexible offering that can be dressed according to needs, ideal for today’s weddings and events.”

Steeped in history and tradition, the four star Old Ground Hotel is located in the heart of Ennis, boasting immaculate private gardens which provide an enchanting backdrop for a perfect wedding day. The Lemaneagh

lBEAUTIFUL VENUE: Rich historic architecture stemming

fireplace, from the Great Hall of Lemaneagh Castle, offers a uniquely characteristic photo opportunity amidst this ever historic hotel.

With the refurbishment, it was important to respect the history of the building and maintain the grand feel that it is synonymous with, whilst upgrading to create a luxurious, elegant and contemporary space filled with a rich, soft colour scheme and furnishings.

Weddings at the Temple Gate Hotel

F

OR a truly magical and unique venue for your Wedding, Civil Ceremony or Civil Partnership, look no further than the family owned and managed 4-star Temple Gate Hotel in Ennis for your special day.

The Great Hall at the Temple Gate Hotel in Ennis was originally built as a church in 1886 and has since been refurbished to offer space for up to 220 wedding guests, providing a stunning room for your Ceremony and reception. The Great Hall still has many of its original features including stained glass windows, vaulted ceiling with oak beams and hand painted batiks. The Temple Gate Hotel has a fantastic reputation for fine food.

We host just one wedding per day, guaranteeing you and your guests a memorable occasion with delicious AA Rosette award winning food expertly prepared to ensure you have the quality of food you expect on your Wedding Day. The Foyer of The Great Hall is the perfect intimate setting for a Cer-

en, embossed wallpaper which has a platinum floral pattern finish. Plush ceiling to floor velvet curtains, luxuriously soft carpet, crushed velvet upholstery on couches and chairs, and fringed velvet cushions create a warmth in the room, while elegant chandeliers, tall table lamps with suede shades, leather upholstered cocktail style high stools and an ice-grey marble topped bar counter add the contemporary elements that appeal to so many couples on their big day.

Mary Gleeson, General Manager of the Old Ground said, “Over the years countless brides and grooms have chosen to let the team at The Old Ground Hotel take care of them on their special day.

The project was led by designer Lucinda Batt from The Interior Library, with significant input from Allen Flynn on all elements of the refurbishment.

Shades of golden sand and teal blue throughout the room are reflective of the hotel’s proximity to the Wild Atlantic Way, and the room’s colour scheme sees panelling in a soft grey tone to complement the rich gold-

emony.

The Temple Gate Hotel offers a range of carefully selected wedding packages starting from €47per person which includes a Champagne red carpet arrival for the bridal party, punch or mulled wine and tea or coffee for all your wedding guests, chair covers and sashes, center piece floral displays and personalised menu cards. The choice of a 5-course menu including specially selected house wines, an evening buffet, reduced accommodation rates for your guests, a romantic candlelit dinner for two for the bride and groom in Legends restaurant on your first anniversary. Your dedicated wedding planner will be with you every step of the way ensuring every detail of your special day is taken care of to perfection.

For further details please call 065 682 3300 or email sales@templegatehotel.com or visit www.templegatehotel.com

Please contact Marie Faughnan Operations manager on 065 6823300

THE OLD GROUND HOTEL Sumptuous cuisine, rich historic architecture stemming from the 18th century, opulent chandeliers, floor to ceiling windows and lavish soft furnishings...

The elegant refurbished Ballroom at The Old Ground Hotel should be every bride’s choice when deciding on that perfect wedding venue.

Your photographer will delight with the private gardens perfect for those memorable images. Choose the Old Ground Hotel Ennis and you are guaranteed a day to remember for both you and your guests.

BOOK AN APPOINTMENT WITH OUR EXPERIENCED WEDDING TEAM TODAY TO FIND OUT MORE MAKE YOUR SPECIAL DAY UNIQUE – CHOOSE THE OLD GROUND HOTEL

Old Ground Hotel, Ennis, Co. Clare, Ireland “Let our family look after yours”

T: +353 65 6828127 E: sales@oldgroundhotel.ie www.oldgroundhotelennis.com

26 JANUARY WEDDING GUIDE

Ceremonies by Gabrielle O’Brien

I

’M GABRIELLE O’BRIEN. I live and work in Ennistymon where I also grew up. I believe that my marriage has really inspired me to give couples and families a different choice and the freedom to celebrate any day, any time and any location.

I trained last year as a Family Celebrant. Accredited by the Irish Institute of Celebrants I am professionally trained to perform and officiate the ceremonial aspects of a wedding ceremony and using traditional ceremonies like the Handfasting Ceremony, The Wine Box Ceremony, The Sand Ceremony and many more I can customise your day at a location of your choice.

My dream wedding would have been held down the old glen by the Falls Hotel.

You might like to have it in your own back garden. The point is you have the option other than the registry office or church.

The benefit of having a wedding celebrant is that there are no limitations on what you can do on your special day; I can assist couples create a ceremony which is truly unique.

I spend some time with couples to get to know them. Each couple is different and I want to create a ceremony with them that is personal and reflects their story. Cou-

ples each share their version of how they met and this really helps me develop and craft their love story. Some are quite funny and others can be serious tear jerkers.

Wedding guests are often fascinated and entertained when they hear the love story.

In Clare we are surrounded with beautiful scenery and amazing locations and many couples choose to travel here. I obviously have extensive knowledge of the area and locations in Clare but my service is available nationwide.

I will be at the Falls Hotel Wedding Inspiration Day on Sunday, 20th of January, and I can also be contacted by email gabrielleceremonies@gmail.com and FB messenger.

There are a few steps that couples need to take before their big day, regardless of who you choose to marry you; whether it’s a celebrant, a priest or solemniser there are legal requirements. A couple must register their intent of marriage with the HSE at least three months in advance of their wedding day, couples are then issued with a Marriage Registration Form (MRM), they then give this to whoever is solemnising the wedding.

TEL: 086 324 4439 EMAIL: gabrielleceremonies@gmail.com

JANUARY WEDDING GUIDE

Get suited and booted with the Manix team

M

27

The perfect backdrop to your wedding

ANIX Menswear has a second-tonone reputation for its casual wear selection and the Market Street establishment has the highest of standards when it comes to suiting men up for their big day. Ask for the popular Páraic or Kenneth when visiting Manix. The two are experts in wedding wear and offer a hands-on customer experience. Not only do Manix have a wide selection of wedding suits to suit all sizes and styles, Páraic and Kenneth are always on hand to give their honest professional opinion. Whether you’re a guest or the main man, you won’t be long finding the perfect suit. If it’s low-hassle, high quality and a selection to suit all budgets you’re looking for, visit upstairs at Manix Menswear in Ennis.

T

HE GORGEOUS setting of the Falls Hotel in Ennistymon alongside the cascades and river Inagh is the perfect backdrop to your wedding! With their exquisitively renovated Woodlands Suite, it really is somewhere special.

Michael and his experienced wedding team take care of wedding couples with genuine care and professionalism. Their attention to detail ensures that nothing is left to chance for a couple’s wedding day. Their wedding inspiration day is on Sunday, January 20 from 2pm – 5pm. Join them to engage with their trusted wedding partners, some of the best wedding suppliers in the area. View some gorgeous wedding dresses and suits at the fashion show with Catwalk Model Agency. Enjoy some wedding nibbles and take in the lovely atmosphere with various musicians performing on the day. Let the team at The Falls Hotel & Spa help you to plan your dream wedding day!

28 JANUARY WEDDING GUIDE

Gail Travel, making your dream honeymoon come true

G

AIL TRAVEL is a family-owned, well-established travel agents in Ennis, with over 25 years’ experience in providing the people of Clare with their dream holidays. At Gail Travel, we pride ourselves on quality, affordable holidays and travel packages.

We cater for individuals, families, groups and we arrange flights, hotels, car hire, insurance, package holidays, worldwide holidays, honeymoons, weddings abroad, ski holidays, ferry bookings, sports tours, round the world trips, tailor-made holidays, city breaks, lakes and mountains.

We also offer a fantastic range of cruise holiday packages. There is no better way to view the world than from aboard a cruise ship. No other holiday offers the

opportunity to wake up in a new destination almost every other day.

Whether you lounge on the sandy beaches of the Caribbean, take in the breath-taking scenery of the Norwegian Fjords, astonishing beauty of an Alaska cruise or the exciting and colourful ports of the Mediterranean, the possibilities are endless. Our experienced team are happy to help and advise you on your ideal itinerary. We also pride ourselves on our customer service, with highly experienced, knowledgeable, friendly and helpful staff to assist with all enquiries.

Gail Travel is a fully licensed and bonded travel agent, so your money and your holiday are totally secure with us.trusted wedding partners, some of the best wedding suppliers in the area.

Wedding Inspiration Day 20th January 2019 From 2pm - 5pm

Come meet with Michael, John, Patrick and our wedding team, see our Woodlands wedding suite all dressed up, and view our smaller suites for those more intimate ceremonies...

We will have a selection of wonderful wedding suppliers for you to meet and engage with.

Flass

Bridal Fashion show with Catwalk Model agenCy we look Forward to Meeting you!

Weddings at the Falls Hotel & Spa – Just Wonderful Falls Hotel Ennistymon, Co Clare, Ireland. +353 (0)65 707 1004 weddings@fallshotel.ie

BUSINESS

THURSDAY, JAN 10 2019

BUSINESS

31

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

LIT set for Engineering Open Day

E

l OPEN DAY: Newly appointed head of the Electrical & Electronic Engineering Dept Dr Maura Clancy Photo by Alan Place

NGINEERS are among the most sought after graduates, and on January 19 the Limerick Institute of Technology (LIT) will showcase various career paths, fields of study and opportunities available through engineering at its Engineering Open Day. The newly appointed Head of Department of Electrical & Electronic Engineering Dr Maura Clancy said, “The LIT Engineering Open Day on Saturday January 19 will enable prospective engineering students, parents and teachers gain an accurate insight into the various engineering strands. It also provides an opportunity for industry and community to be actively involved with LIT as some of the regions most successful engineering employers will be present on

WEST CLARE HAS GOT BAGS OF CLASS...

Photo by Patrick McHugh

A

WEST Clare entrepreneur is helping fashionistas and regular shoppers alike beat the January blues with ‘mood enhancing handbags’.

As the bright lights and festive atmosphere of December become a distant memory, and we all face into a grey and dreary January, Sallyann’s Bags say the smallest of joys can make a big difference to your mood and wardrobe (and it doesn’t involve dieting or dry January!)

Most women carry a handbag or bag every day, but in the depths of winter when outfits can tend to become based around dark colours, life can become very monochrome. Sallyann Marron says, when worn, her handbags are mood enhancing and bring a smile to its wearer’s face.

Sallyann’s Bags are made from water repellent outer fabrics and lined with recycled denim jeans. The bags are bright, colourful and eye catching - mood enhancing handbags designed and made in West Clare. The jeans used in the linings are sourced from charity shops across the Mid West of Ireland, and this means that there is a little bit of good in every bag, where each bag represents a pair of jeans that has not gone into landfill, and makes a contribution to a local charity like the MidWest Simon Community.

Sallyann Marron said, “I genuinely feel that a bright, colourful handbag can have a positive impact on both an outfit and the wearer’s mood, and my customers seem to agree with me.”

In an exciting start to 2019, Sallyann’s Handmade Bags has been selected to be a participant in the prestigious “Going For Growth” programme run by Enterprise Ireland and KPMG. This will involve a six month programme of round table meetings facilitated by Marian O’Gorman, CEO of the Kilkenny Group.

Sallyann Bags can be found online at www.sallyannsbags.com and at selected retailers around Ireland, including Shannon Airport Duty Free, the Shannon Irish Design Store at Bunratty and the Design Lodge, Lahinch Co Clare. Sallyann is a regular participant at the highly regarded Chapel Lane Market in Ennis (open every Saturday from mid- February - December).

the day, ready to advise on how to pursue a career in engineering.”

Dr Clancy believes engineering is an exciting, interesting and rewarding career for all, irrespective of age, gender or general interests.

“Engineers apply science and maths to solve problems, they figure out how things work and find practical uses for scientific discoveries. If you have an inquisitive mind, if you want to know how things work then a very rewarding career in engineering lies ahead.”

Dr Clancy is keen to highlight engineering as an enticing and interesting career path for women, and fears cultural perception may be hampering efforts to attract young female school leavers into the field of engineering. Just 12% of engineers in Ireland are female compared to 30% of the engineers

in Latvia, Bulgaria and Cyprus.

An advocate of lifelong learning Dr Clancy’s career path is testimony to the fact that neither gender, age or lifestyle should be seen as an obstacle to a future in engineering.

A business owner with business qualifications and mother of two, Maura established the Maths Support Centre at NUIG. She later went on to consultancy work with the US company, Anne Shannon & Associates, before she joined LIT in 2012 where she lectured on many of the engineering programmes.

Dr Clancy was appointed Head of Department of Electrical & Electronic Engineering this year.

The Engineering Open Day will run from 10am to 2pm and is free of charge. Booking is not required for this event but visitors are recommended to arrive early.

Search on for entrepreneurs

NOW in its 22nd Year, the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2019 programme officially opens his week for nominations. The theme of this year’s programme is “Be Brave, Be Bold” and all sectors and businesses of all sizes across the island of Ireland are invited to submit their nominations until February 15.

The 24 finalists for 2019 will be announced on 23 April.

Clare’s entrepreneurs are encouraged to put themselves forward to follow in the footsteps of well-known Clare business people, Louis Keating, L&M Keating Ltd., Michael O’Dwyer, Tyrecheck, who were finalists in 2017 and 2015, respectively. While CupPrint’s Terry Fox was the eventual winner in the Emerging category in 2014.

Kevin McLoughlin, Partner Lead for EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Ireland said: “I am delighted to launch the 2019 EY Entrepreneur Of The Year programme, now in its 22nd year. This year we are committed to supporting and encouraging our island’s entrepreneurs to be brave and to be bold, whether that means taking a first step with a brilliant idea, or taking a calculated risk to drive growth in their business.

They will be able to take inspiration from, and tap into the vast knowledge of Ireland’s most fearless entrepreneurs who have gone through this programme in the past. I am really proud that we now have an Alumni network of 500 entrepre-

neurs who have benefited from the programme and remain connected to it.”

He added: “A highlight of the programme will be when our finalists go on our renowned international CEO Retreat taking place this year in Hong Kong, designed to help Irish entrepreneurs transform their thinking and vision through executive education and inspiration from some of the world’s leading CEOs.” Operating in more than 60 countries worldwide, EY Entrepreneur Of The Year is recognised as the most prestigious business accolade for entrepreneurs. The programme is open to entrepreneurs from all sectors and growth stages, across the island of Ireland. The awards programme is divided into three categories - Emerging, Industry and International - with eight finalists chosen per category. The 24 finalists will be selected by an independent panel of judges, comprising former winners and chaired by Anne Heraty of CPL Resources plc.

For further information or for people who wish to put themselves forward or nominate an entrepreneur with their consent can fill out the online nomination form at www.eoy.ie.

Motoring MOTORING EXPERT NEIL BRISCOE GIVES HIS VIEWS

IT’S NOT A COUPE BUT RENAULT’S MEGANE FOUR-DOOR IS PERFECT GRAND

GRAND COUPE HAS SLINKY LOOKS, AND SENSIBLE ECONOMY

I

ROAD TEST: RENAULT MEGANE GRAND COUPE

T’S a huge shame that we don’t get to have the Talisman in Ireland – often the choice of taxi in Paris in the past couple of years. It’s Renault’s big four-door saloon, a hugely handsome, comfortable, smooth-to-drive car.

There is some succour, however, in the knowledge that Renault will sell you a 6/8th replica of the Talisman, and it’s called the Megane Grand Coupe.

With sales of SUVs rising, and sales

of four-door saloons falling (reversing decades of love of such cars here in Ireland) it had to do something to make the booted Megane stand out from the crossover crowd. And stand out it most certainly does. The Megane Grand Coupe may not deserve, strictly speaking, its Coupe badge but it’s a hugely good-looking car.

The boot is pretty useful too — at 503-litres, it has more space on offer than that of the hatchback Megane. In the cabin, overall quality seems very good and such things as seat design are excellent. The highlight, in terms of spec, is the big, upright 8.7-inch R-Link touchscreen. With the portrait version, the cabin looks classy and expensive.

Prices are pretty competitive too. For €23,940 for the 1.33 petrol in Play trim (or €25,870 for the diesel) you get climate control, DAB radio and much more.

FACTS & FIGURES: Model tested: Renault Megane Grand Coupe 1.5 dCi 115 Signature Pricing: €30,370 as tested, range starts at €23,940 Engine: 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbo diesel Transmission: six-speed manual, front-wheel drive Body style: four-door saloon CO2 emissions: 95g/km (Band A2, €180 per annum) Combined economy: 76mpg (3.7 litres/100km) Top speed: 190km/h 0-100km/h: 11.6 seconds Power: 115hp at 4,000rpm Torque: 260Nm at 1,750rpm Boot space: 503-litres (seats up), 987-litres (seats folded) EuroNCAP rating: Five-stars. 88 per cent adult, 87 per cent child, 71 per cent pedestrian, 71 per cent safety assist.

TOYOTA HYBRID

W

HATEVER else happens, Toyota is going to have a massive 2019. It’s launching what can only be described as a hybrid model blitz on the Irish market this year. Arguably the most significant new model is the Corolla, the 12th generation of the famous name, and it’s making a return in hatchback and estate forms this time, replacing the outgoing Auris.

There’ll be a four-door saloon too, and while you can have a conventional 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine, the focus will be on two hybrid powertrains — a 1.8-litre version with 120hp, and a new 2.0-litre version with 180hp, which should be pretty sporty. That hybrid setup will also be found in the new RAV4, which is now bigger, and has a more aggressive 4x4-ish bodystyle. There’s also more space in the cabin and the boot. Probably our favourite new hybrid Toyota, though, is the new Camry — a classic name making a welcome return to the Irish market.

All-New Dacia Duster Rugged, robust and better looking

Starting from €149 per month – A price as smooth as the ride Hogan Motors Ennis Gort Road, Ennis, Co. Clare Tel 0656821704 www.hoganmotorsennis.ie Model shown: All-New Dacia Duster Prestige SCe 115, RRP €21,290 (excluding metallic paint RRP €520). Finance example: Duster ESSENTIAL SCe 115, RRP €17,390. Deposit €5,694. Term 36 monthly payments of €149. APR 4.9%. Total cost of credit €1,434 inc fees of €150. Optional final payment €7,617. Excess mileage plus excess wear-and-tear charges may apply upon return of vehicle. Offer is made under a hire purchase agreement. Subject to lending criteria. Terms and conditions apply. Offer exclusive to Dacia Bank. See Dacia.ie [Warning: You will not own these goods until the final payment is made]. Dacia Bank is a trading name of RCI Banque Branch Ireland and is authorised and regulated by the French banking authority and supervised by the Central Bank for conduct of business purposes.

Sport

l ON THE RUN: Shane Golden has control of the sliotar as he races away from two Waterford men

Photo by Martin Connolly

Clare qualify for Munster League final in Waterford Munster League semi-final: Waterford 3-16 Clare 2-20 at Fraher Field, Dungarvan

A

SECOND successive Munster Senior Hurling League final appearance is the reward for Clare for defeating Waterford on Sunday after-

noon.

Clare led from start to finish and a Tony Kelly goal on the twenty fifth minute put eleven points between the teams.

Further white flags from Kelly and his Ballyea clubmate, Niall Deasy saw Clare hold a 1-14 1-08 half time lead.

In additional time of the second half, Waterford struck for goal via Tommy Ryan and Stephen Bennett but Colin Guilfoyle’s goal earlier in the half proved to Clare holding on.

Both teams came into this game

having beaten Cork, Clare overcame the Rebels by two points with Waterford recording a six point victory over John Meyler’s side.

Former hurlers of the year, Tony Kelly and Austin Gleeson featured from the start as the duo played their first bit of inter-county hurling in 2019.

Kelly was one of five changes to the Clare side along with the introduction of Donal Tuohy, David McInerney, Conor Cleary and Colin Guilfoyle.

David Fitzgerald, David Conroy, Colm Galvin, Gary Cooney and Keith Hogan were the players to make way from the starting team.

It was Pauric Fanning’s second game in charge of Waterford since succeeding Derek McGrath and

Shane Bennett’s first appearance in a county jersey since returning to the panel, the Ballysaggart forward took a break from inter-county hurling for 2018.

Clare: 1. Donal Tuohy (Crusheen) 2. Jason McCarthy (Inagh-Kilnamona) 3. David McInerney (Tulla) 4. Rory Hayes (Wolfe Tones na Sionna) 5. Aidan McCarthy (Inagh-Kilnamona) (0-01) 21. Conor Cleary (St Josephs Miltown) 7. Cathal Malone (Sixmilebridge) 8. Shane Golden (Sixmilebridge) (0-03) 23. Tony Kelly (Ballyea) (1-02) 10. Diarmuid Ryan (Cratloe) (0-06) 11. Niall Deasy (Ballyea) (0-05 3f) 12. Ryan Taylor (Clooney-Quin) (0-01) 17. Colin Guilfoyle (Newmarket On Fergus) (1-01) 14. Aron Shanagher (Wolfe Tones na Sionna) 15. Michael O’Neill (Kilmaley) SUBS: 20. Jack Browne (Ballyea) for Hayes (13); 13.

Gary Cooney (O’Callaghan’s Mills) for Shanagher (52); 25. Podge Collins (Cratloe) for O’Neill (55); 9. Davy Con-

roy (St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield)(0-01) for Guilfoyle (59); 18. Mikey O’Malley (Kilmaley) for Taylor (60) Waterford: 1. Billy Nolan (Roanmore) 4. Noel Connors (Passage) (Captain) 3. Conor Prunty (Abbeyside) 2. Darragh Lyons (Dungarvan) 5. Micheal Harney (Bunmahon) 6. Austin Gleeson (Mount Sion) 7. Kieran Bennett (Ballysaggart) 8. Jamie Barron (Fourmilewater) 9. Stephen Roche (Mount Sion) 23. Colin Dunford (Colligan) 11. Shane Bennett (Ballysaggart) 12. DJ Foran (Portlaw) (0-01) 15. Jack Prendergast (Lismore) 14. Stephen Bennett (Ballysaggart) (2-12 1-10f) 13. Tommy Ryan (Tallow) (1-01) Subs: 10. Kevin Moran (De La Salle) (0-01) for Gleeson (HT); 26. Callum Lyons (Ballyduff Lower) for Harney (HT); 24. Mikey Kearney (Ballyduff Upper) (0-01) for Shane Bennett (44); 21. Michael Walsh (Stradbally) for Prendergast (52); 19. Jordan Henley (Tallow) for Lyons (70) Referee: Kevin Jordan (Tipperary)

SPORT

THURSDAY, JAN 10 2019

35

Coughlan and Cooney impress for footballers PÁRAIC McMAHON McGrath Cup Clare 1-17 Waterford 1-06

A

DOMINANT performance from the Clare senior footballers saw them advance to the McGrath Cup Final for the second year in a row on Sunday.

Cork await Clare in the McGrath Cup decider following an eleven point win for Colm Collins’ side over Waterford with twelve different players registering on the scoreboard for the men in Saffron and Blue.

A new look Banner outfit with captain Gary Brennan at full-forward and Dean Ryan at centre-back took control from the off and outscored Waterford eight points to nil with twenty five minutes played.

Conall Ó hAiniféin scored Clare’s only goal of the game when he combined with the lively duo of Dermot Coughlan and Gavin Cooney teeing up the UCC student. Two late Waterford points left it 1-08 0-02 at half-time.

With the bulk of the damage already done, Clare kept the scoreboard ticking in the second half with Gearoid O’Brien, Davy O’Halloran, Niall Ellis and Gearoid Cahill all raising white flags. To their credit, the home side kept plugging away and a goal followed from Donie Fitzgerald.

In what was their first outing of the year, Colm

Collins will be pleased with the outcome and the displays of some of the younger brigade including Gavin Cooney and Dermot Coughlan while Davy O’Halloran’s return to the county colours was marked by him racking up a tally of two points.

Cork will pose a much tougher test on Saturday.

Another positive is the amount of players that made their senior inter-county debut.

Clare will take on Cork in Hennessy Memorial Park in Miltown Malbay at 2pm on Saturday in the final. Meanwhile, Clare’s hurlers will travel to the Gaelic Grounds to face Tipperary in the Coop Munster hurling league final on Sunday.

Clare: Rob Eyres (Kildysart); Kevin Hartnett (Meelick), Cillian Brennan (Clondegad), Jayme O’Sullivan (Wolfe Tones); Conal O hAinifein (Éire Óg) (1-00), Dean Ryan (Éire Óg), Dale Masterson (St Breckans) (0-01); Daragh Bohannon (Shannon Gaels) (0-01), Cathal O’Connor (Coolmeen); Cian O’Dea (Kilfenora) (0-01), David O’Halloran (Éire Óg) (0-02), Dermot Coughlan (Kilmurry Ibrickane) (0-02); Gavin Cooney (Éire Óg) (0-04 1f), Gary Brennan (Clondegad), Kieran Malone (St Josephs Miltown) (0-01).

Subs: Alan Sweeney (St Breckans) for Masterson, Niall Ellis (Shannon Gaels) (0-01) for Coughlan, Gearoid Cahill (Corofin) (0-01 1f) for Cooney, Danny Griffin (Éire Óg) for Gary Brennan, Gearoid O’Brien (Kilrush) (0-01) for Malone Waterford: Aaron Beresford; Jack Mullaney, Ray O’Ceallaigh, Michael Kiely; Aidan Trihy, Brian Looby, James McGrath (0-1); Dylan Guiry, Michael Curry; Sean Whelan Barrett, Jason Curry, Conor Murray (0-2); Brian Lynch (0-3, two frees), Shane Ahearne, Stephen Curry.

Subs: Sean O Donovan for Kiely, Joe Allen for Guiry, Jay Hurton for Mullaney, Donie Fitzgerald (1-0) for J Curry.

Referee:Conor Lane (Cork).

l UP AND COMING: Dermot Coughlan (in action here for his club Kilmurry Ibrickane) was impressive for Clare as they saw off Waterford with ease at the weekend

Photo by Martin Connolly

The Scorecard in association with

ENNIS GOLF CLUB SENIOR MENS RESULTS FOR CLUB SCRAMBLE SAT.5TH JAN 2019

ney(13) 43pts 5th D Doheny(5) & F Croke(15) 42pts

1st Ethna Murphy, Ken Morrissey, Tommy Heath 64pts 2nd Carmel Verling, Johnny Kearse, Paul Mockler 61pts 3rd Eileen Holly, Paul Kenny, Leo Herbert 61pts 4th Della Burns, Eamon Corry, Tim Scanlon 61pts 5th Attracta Williams, Ml Kearney, Sean o’Gorman 59pts 6th Ann Dunne, Liam Pyne, Pat G Mc Inerney 58pts

SENIOR MENS RESULTS FOR THURSDAY JAN. 3RD 2019 3 BALL MOD. SCRAMBLE WITH 66 PLAYERS

Gent’s 4 Ball B/B(9/10hdc) 17 Holes Sun.6th Jan. 2019 1st J Mc Namara(12) & E Glenny(17) 46pts 2nd R Ryan(11) & D Kenneally(12) 44pts 3rd J Blessington(10) & P Sutton(13) 44pts 4th J Casey(18) & P Mc Iner-

l TIME FOR THE FANS: Euan McInerney having his hurley signed by David McInerney after the match in Dungarvan last weekend

Photo by Martin Connolly

1ST OLLIE O LOUGHLIN , PAT G MCINERNEY , LARRY PARKS 69 POINTS 2ND JOE CARMODY , TIM SCANLON , PAUL HIGGINS 67 3RD PETER QUINN , AIDAN LYNCH , MICHAEL BUTLER 67 4TH SEAN FITZPATRICK , JOHN GUILFOYLE , J K CONSIDINE 66 5TH CONOR MURPHY , JOHN O FLYNN , DENIS O CEALLAIG 66 6TH OLLIE KENNELLY , EAMON KELLY , PADRAIG RYAN 64

36 CLASSIFIEDS

Classifieds ACCOUNTANCY

CAR REPAIRS

FIREWOOD

CLEANING & POWER WASHING

JOB OPPORTUNITIES

PAINTING DOG SITTERS AT HOME 2 STAFFIES TO BE CARED FOR IN YOUR OWN HOME WHILE OWNER ON VACATION

• • •

Preferably person used to Staffies, energy/ strength Great with people/prefer not to mix with other dogs All food and bedding provided.

175 – 200 EURO PER WEEK 375 – 400 EURO FOR 2 WEEKS.

Genunine animal lover required mbs-clare-echo.indd 1

18/12/2018 22:08:41

Ennis 089 242 1071

The Clare Echo Classifieds Contact 065 671 9021

THURSDAY, JAN 10 2019

CONTACT SALES

065 671 9021 sales@clareecho.ie

ROOFING

THURSDAY, JAN 10 2019

Classifieds RELIGION

TARMACADAM

STORAGE

WINDOW AND DOORS

For Sale Ladies Raleigh ‘high Nelly’ bicycle Excellent condition Contact: 065 6824040

The Clare Echo Classifieds

The Clare Echo Classifieds

For Sale Complete Writing’s – Wolfe Tone.

3 Vols (Unwanted gift) As new €110.00

The Clare Echo Classifieds

Contact 065 671 9021

Dell 16” Monitor €25 Contact 087 060 0905

CONTACT SALES

065 671 9021 sales@clareecho.ie

The Clare Echo Classifieds

Contact 065 671 9021 FOR SALE

CLASSIFIEDS 37

Contact 065 671 9021

38 CROSSWORD/HOROSCOPES

THURSDAY, JAN 10 2019

Your Horoscopes JAN 10 Today you should continue gliding down this lazy track — after all, you’re finally starting to get the hang of it! Taking the back seat on the journey provides you with a much more entertaining view, and this fact becomes extremely evident today. There is a show going on around you that you don’t want to miss. People can be entertaining, and the folks in your life are real superstars.

Taurus

Gemini

The clock won’t exactly be your friend today, but time won’t treat you poorly if you respect it. Figure out a smart plan early on — get organized and allot yourself plenty of time to finish what you need to do today. With all the loose ends lying around, you might trip — and fall into a bigger mess than you could have anticipated.

Your creative spirit is a unique one, but it will do you little good if you don’t make something with it. Take an idea and go somewhere. Have you had an odd dream that you can’t shake loose? Play around with the images it may represent and see what becomes of it. Home-related tasks like cooking, knitting, and even cleaning offer you a surprisingly rewarding experience today.

Cancer It can be extremely difficult to persevere during a day when

Leo

Virgo

everyone else seems preoccupied with their own matters; no one is on hand to give you the pat on the back you may be looking for. But don’t think that you’re out in the cold alone. You just need to keep doing your best — even when no one is looking. Your attitude matters then, too. Stay focused on your own life and give yourself the support you need. In no time at all, you’ll regain the attention you truly deserve.

Put more energy into staying up-to-date today — it looks like you’re in need of a serious upgrade. This could apply to technology, clothing, an automobile, or even eyeglasses!

Clearly, something isn’t working exactly right in your life at this point. Pick up some consumer magazines and do your research, then decide which option is your best value. Resist the urge to run right out and plop down some cash for something that will eventually be obsolete. Buy smarter.

Some of your old habits are getting a bit stale — and they’re not fitting into your lifestyle very well right now. Today your growing pains will start to make the changes you need to make clear to you. Adjusting your behavior is never easy, but if you look at the big picture and give yourself some small, attainable goals, it won’t be as challenging as you fear. You need to focus on your personal growth as much as you can — make yourself your top priority.

Libra

Scorpio

Sagittarius

Aries

1/1

Too many people have been underestimating you lately, but there’s a chance that you have only yourself to blame.

You need to go out and toot your own horn much more than you’ve been doing. There’s no shame in self-promotion, and you need to learn how to do it better. Ask a flamboyant friend for some advice on how to have a bigger personality every once in a while. You’ll accomplish a lot today, regardless of the fact that people might not expect miracles from you.

You may want to skip that extra cup of coffee this morning because you launch your day with extra vim and vigor without it! This exciting momentum carries you through the entire day nicely — you feel as if you’re walking in a bubble, isolated from all the troubles and conflicts going on around you. If you run into a wall (either with a partner or a rude stranger), you’ll be able to knock it down in a flash.

Capricorn

Aquarius

You’ve been on quite a productive streak lately, and that’s not about to change. But before you lose all perspective and remove all fun from your life, check in with your support network and go on a quick social outing. Spend more time with loved ones you’re closest to — let them know you value them in your life. Your confidence is booming, and they love the changes in you — despite your absence in their lives.

Sometimes you have to pick your battles. Right now your resources and energy could be running low -- and you won’t be able to put out every fire that ignites. Your best strategy for this unpredictable day is to prioritize and be ready to compromise; you may have to swallow your pride to succeed at a goal, so be prepared for that. One of the smartest ways to manage difficult people is to take the high road. Let scheming folks find their fate without your involvement.

The Clare Echo Crossword 1

Â

2

 Â

8

 Â

Â

Â

Â

Â

Â

Â

Â

Â

Â

Â

Â

Â

Â

Â

Â

lt

)

g

Â

Â

Â

Â

Â

The name of the dog in the

Â

Â

14

Â

16

 Â

Â

 Â

Â

Â

Â

Â

22

24

Â

Â

Â

 Â

Â

About Saint ark? (5)

 Â

Â

Â

20

Â

Â

Â

 Â

Â

 Â

Â

Â

Â

Â

 Â

Â

Fruit for mother and child (6)

car? (5)

Â

Â

Â

Â

7

Â

11

19

Â

Â

Â

Â

 Â

Â

6

Â

Â

Â

Â

23

Â

 Â

Â

16 18 20

Â

Â

21

Â

Â

 18

Â

ate

Â

13

Â

15

Â

Â

Â

12

Â

Â

Â

Â

17

5

 9

Â

Â

an ideal

Â

Â

Â

10

Â

4

 Â

Â

ficult - just

Â

3

Â

Â

Â

Â

Â

Â

 Â

Â

ACROSS 1 Glass and paper? (6) 4 Rod broken after a measure of agreement (6) 8 Journeys after Caesar’s last date in Rome? (5) 9 It holds cutlery for the dining room (7) 10 A football team always has weight (7) 11 Quickly consuming eastern banquet (5) 12 Perhaps the elders may be protected (9) 17 Leading group’s surprise result (5) 19 Two obstacles before a girl (7) 21 Certain after a time to see deletion (7) 22 Free verse changes direction (5) 23 Listen out for Christmas decoration

The only limits on your progress right now are the ones you’ve put there yourself. It’s high time you realize that you can do absolutely anything — and everything — you set your mind to! All you need is patience, focus and self-confidence.

Today remove any and all of your self-imposed limits and let yourself roam free for a while. You’ll find the right direction soon, so trust yourself.

Pisces

si i ) 7( e ert e c al p s t c err ) 6 ( d ni h

g ni w a r d

15 Copper on trial is 20 The name of the most shrewd (6) dog in the car? (5) 16 Fruit for mother and child (6) 18 About Saint Mark?

(5) ) 5( ?r a c e ht ni g o d e ht f o e m a n e h T

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

) 5 ( ? k r a M t ni a S t u o b A

) 6 ( dli h c d n a r e ht o m r of ti u r F

N

O

Y

A

R

C

L

E

S

N

I

42

O

R

S

R

E

E

S

V

A

N R

E

R

I

U

S

B

R

A

02

D

L

H

B

A

R

T

T E

E

A

S

P

E

R

E

N

T

L

41

S

A

H

nr et sah

et a d t s al f o er u s

U

E

E

S

F

N

S . el k c

21

S O

T

R

A

R E

E

V

01

I

E

T

P

O

N

R

A

E

C

R

S

E

S

D

I

R 8

O

O

C 6

N

C

A 5

t s uj - tl u ciffi d o ot t o n

E

9

O

l a e di n a o sl a si tI

L

11

7

eb y

C

E 31

E

D

tl u s e r e s

51

D

N

ees ) 7 ( l ri g

71

61

T

n oit c e r

g ni ni

E T

81

91

02 81 61

s

S

12

O

A

T 32

E

22

M

) 6(

g nitt e

Any predictions from psychics, fortune cookies, or bubble gum wrappers aren’t going to give you insight on things today — if they ever did. The fact is that there’s no way to see into the future, so trying to do so is a huge waste of your time. Vague promises of future activities, future romance, or even future jobs are feeling a bit empty right now.

Position yourself as someone who needs to see something before you believe it and you won’t be disappointed.

(6) 24 Cold material used for drawing (6) DOWN 1 A little bit of code left behind (6) 2 Put clothes back on? Correct! (7) 3 Start where filming takes place (5) 5 It’s turning out nice for a tree (7) 6 Part of Aida reportedly getting backing - that’s what Verdi is famous for (5) 7 Give no date for reform (6) 9 An artist whose work is arresting? (9) 13 Be ardent then change employment (7) 14 Yearned madly for a clergyman’s house (7)

d w er h s

R 4

E

O

R 3

O

R

I 2

M 1

QUIZ 39

THURSDAY, JAN 10 2019

The Clare Echo Quiz HATS, HEADBANDS AND FLAGS

has 9 blue flag beaches. But Clare’s crest carries the words 1 Clare which of the following does not 7 ‘na céada sa cát agus na deirneacha as’. What does this refer to?

Timothy 6:12, David 9:5, John 3:7

ANSWERS

match march around the pitch?

Clare captain Patrick O’Connor, The Band Leader, Nobody

6. John 3:7

6

A sign with which biblical verse is often seen flying at GAA games?

l QUESTION 7: ’na céada sa cát agus na deireacha as’

1.Bishop’s Quarter

Ennis, Killaloe, Kilrush

In Clare’s All Ireland semi-final 10 vs Galway at Croke Park, who carried the Clare flag in the pre-

7. Battle

Where did the origin of Clare 5 being called the Banner county begin in the 19th century?

8. Victims of a shooting in Florida

Green & White, Black & Red, Pink & White

Gaelscoil Mhichil Ciosóg, Raheen Wood Steiner School, Ennistymon National School

2. Ennis

colours are associated with 4 What Meelick GAA Club?

Which Clare school was first to 9 receive a Yellow Flag for promoting interculturalism and equality?

9. Gaelscoil Mhichil Ciosóg

Brian Ború, Michael Cusack, Eamon DeValera

Clare’s LGBTQ community, Victims of a shooting in Florida, The colours of the rainbow

3. Brian Ború

is credited with first use of 3 Who Clare’s saffron and blue flag?

2016 but what did Councillor James Breen say the raising of the flag also recognised?

4. Black & Red

vibrant night life

Killarney, Ennis, Lahinch

Clare County Council raised a 8 ‘pride flag’ to coincide with the first Irish LGBTQ Pride festival in

10. Nobody

Which was the first Irish town to 2 receive Purple Flag accreditation, a mark that a town has a safe and

Loyalty, Cats, Battle

5. Ennis

have blue flag status?

Cappagh, Bishop’s Quarter, Whitestrand Doonbeg

OLD IMAGES OF COUNTY CLARE

Corcomroe Abbey, Ballyvaughan, Co. Clare

Image NLI.ie / Collection: Lawrence Photograph Collection