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FEB 10 2022

CLARE’S HART’ BREAKERS HIQA investigate

UHL trolley crisis

by RONAN JUDGE

T l St Joseph’s Tulla celebrate winning the Harty Cup on Saturday. Full report on page 34-35

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

HE health information and quality authority (HIQA) is to carry out safety inspections at University Hospital Limerick (UHL). The move comes amid record levels of overcrowding at the hospital. Minister of State at the Department of Health, Mary Butler, yesterday told the Dáil that HIQA is closely monitoring overcrowding at a number of hospitals including Limerick. “HIQA has also written to HSE senior management to highlight its intention to initiate inspections under the national standards for safer and better healthcare,” Deputy Butler said.

Deputy Butler said HIQA had “recent correspondence with the hospital group CEO regarding its evaluation of the current factors influencing crowding in the emergency department”. Independent TD, Michael McNamara has called for the correspondence to be published in full. Deputy McNamara also called on the Government to confirm if an independent review, separate to HIQA’s review, would be carried out after the Taoiseach confirmed to him last month that such a review would be considered. The Clare TD said in recent weeks overcrowding in UHL had reached record levels.

FULL STORY pg 6

2 NEWS

Index NEWS

THURSDAY, FEB 10 2022

BLOOD, SWEAT AND TEARS BRINGS WIN

2-13

ENTERTAINMENT

GREEN CLARE

RECRUITMENT

20-21

WEDDING FEATURE 22-31 MOTORING

23-33

SPORT

34-37

36C Abbey Street, Ennis, County Clare Telephone: 065 671 9021

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Email: niall@clareecho.ie or sales@clareecho.ie This publication supports the work of the Press Council of Ireland and Office of the Press Ombudsman, and our staff operate within the Press Council’s Code of Practice. You can obtain a copy of the Code, or contact the Press Council, at www.presscouncil.ie, Lo-call 1890 208 080 or email: info@presscouncil.ie

l PRIDE: St Joseph’s Tulla teammates celebrate becoming TUS Harty Cup winners for the first time. They beat rivals Ardscoil Rís with a score of 0-17 to 0-14 and progress to the semi final of the All Ireland series Photo by Gerard O'Neill

HomeGallery-Linen-Ennis2022.qxp_Layout 1 09/02/2022 15:18 Page 1

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4 NEWS

THURSDAY, FEB 10 2022

State granted time to serve book on murder accused by RONAN JUDGE

HE State has been granted futher time to serve the book of evidence on a man accused of murdering another man in Lisdoonvarna. Thomas Lorigan (32), of no fixed abode, appeared at Ennis district court via video link from prison where he has been on remand since being charged last month. Lorigan is charged with the murder of pensioner John O'Neill at St Brendan's Road, Lisdoonvarna on a date unknown between January 6 and January 7, 2022. The charge against Lorigan is contrary to Common Law. During the brief hearing, the accused spoke only to confirm that he could see and hear the court proceedings. Defence solicitor Daragh Hassett said his client has been in custody since being charged with murder last month. He continued, "There has been no application for bail. It is impossible in this court (district) and there has been no application elsewhere." A bail application in a case where a person is charged with murder can only be considered by the high court. Mr Hassett said his client may seek to apply to the high court for bail. Sergeant Aiden Lonergan told the court he was seeking the maximum four week remand in custody to allow for service of the book of evidence. Mr Hassett said there was no objection to the State's application. Judge Mary Larkin remanded Lorigan in custody to appear again in court on March 9.

 John O'Neill was found dead at his house

Driving ban for man who crashed into pensioner's porch A MAN who crashed his car into the front porch of a pensioner's home in west Clare has been disqualified from driving for two years, writes Ronan Judge. Jonathan Griffin (39) left the scene of the crash and went to a pub before returning to the scene where he met Gardaí, Kilrush district court heard. Griffin, with an address at Caislean Na hAbhainn, Castletroy, Limerick, pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of careless driving and other driving offences. A charge of drink driving was withdrawn and struck out. Garda Michael Daniels told the court that at 1pm on January 11, 2020, he and a colleague received a report of a car colliding with the porch of a home in Lisdeen, Kilkee. The court heard witnesses reported hearing a loud bang and seeing a car crash into the property. Gda Daniels said the owner of the home, a woman in her 70s, was in her back garden at the time and was unharmed. The garda said the driver had left the scene and an hour later gardai received reports of man matching the driver's description about a

mile from the scene. When gardai met Griffin, they noticed he was "shaking" the court heard. He was subsequently identified as the driver. Judge Mary Larkin said she did not see how she could accept a reduced plea of careless driving from dangerous driving. The judge said it was clear the driving in this case was dangerous. Defence solicitor Daragh Hassett told the court that conditions on the day were bad and the house is located on the bend. Mr Hassett said his client had left the scene, gone to a local public house and returned to the scene after a short while. Judge Larkin said the court had to be concerned about the public at large and it was clear the accused "was going too fast around the bend". The judge said she would convict Griffin on careless driving but would not accept a special reason not to disqualify him. She imposed a two year driving ban and a number of fines for the other driving offences. Recognisances were set on the event of an appeal.

Kilrush house party was no 'golf-gate'

by RONAN JUDGE

HOUSE party in Kilrush that was in breach of covid regulations was no "golf-gate" type event, a court has heard. At Kilrush district court, Marian Dusail (36), with an address at O'Dea's Road, Kilrush, pleaded guilty to an offence contrary to the health act as amended by the health (preservation and protection and other emergency measures in the public interest) Act 2020. The summons stated that Dusail did organise or cause to be organised an event which was held for social or recreational reasons in a dwelling without taking reasonable steps to ensure those persons attending or proposing to attend the event were part of the household. The event took place at the accused's home address on February 25, 2021 at a time when social gatherings were not allowed. Garda Ken Butler told the court that he observed between eight and ten people attending a "house party" at

the property. He said the attendees were from the same family but lived at different households. The court heard a €500 ﬁxed charge penalty notice was issued but went unpaid. Gda Butler told the court Dusail has no previous convictions. Defence solicitor John Casey conﬁrmed the facts of the case were as outlined by gda Butler. Mr Casey said that at the time of the incident, his client had been unable to carry out his usual work as a result of the pandemic. He said his client had been drinking on his own during the day prior to other

Kilrush Courthouse

members of his family calling to the house. "There were eight to 10 people judge. This was no golf-gate", he added. Judge Mary Larkin said, "Was it as serious as an event at 10 Downing Street?" "There were no selfies judge", Mr Casey replied. Mr Casey told the court his client had received the €500 fine but did not have the money to pay it. He said Dusail had attempted to pay the fine in instalments but that was not possible. Judge Larkin convicted Dusail and imposed a €50 fine.

NEWS

THURSDAY, FEB 10 2022

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6 NEWS

Hospital visitor restrictions relaxed ELAINE TUBRIDY elaine.tubridy@clareecho.ie

ISITING restrictions in University Hospital Limerick and Ennis Hospital were partially relaxed on Tuesday, as part of the ongoing management of recent outbreaks of COVID-19. Advice from the Group’s Outbreak Control Teams means that visiting resumed on all almost all inpatient wards at UHL, and on the Burren Ward at Ennis Hospital. For now, visiting restrictions remain in place on Ward 1D and the Trauma Ward in UHL, and on the Fergus Ward in Ennis Hospital, where the management of outbreaks of COVID-19 continues. Restrictions also remain in place on both inpatient wards at Nenagh Hospital, following a COVID-19 outbreak in the hospital last week. "While we welcome the partial resumption of visiting in UHL and Ennis, we ask people who visit our hospitals to adhere to the basic public health safeguards that help prevent the transmission of COVID-19 in healthcare settings. "Visitors are required to wear a facemask, which will be made available at hospital entrances, observe hand hygiene, complete a COVID-19 questionnaire, and have their temperature checked at hospital entrances," said a spokesperson for UL Hospitals Group. Visiting hours are from 2pm to 4pm and 6pm to 8pm every day, and visits must be booked through their online booking system. Ward staff will be able to help visitors with any queries about this system.

NEW NORMAL: UHL In Nenagh and in the areas of UHL and Ennis that remain subject to access restrictions, exceptions are made on a case-by-case basis for people assisting confused patients, for example, patients with dementia, and on compassionate grounds for patients who are critically ill or at end-of-life. "We regret any inconvenience the remaining restrictions cause for inpatients and their loved ones. Hospital management has decided that it is necessary to restrict visiting in the affected areas at UHL, Ennis and Nenagh Hospitals in the interests of patient and staff safety and keeping essential services open for all patients," the spokesperson concluded.

THURSDAY, FEB 10 2022

HIQA investigates UHL overcrowding issues by STUART HOLLY CLARE TD Michael McNamara has called on the HSE and government to publish the findings of a review by the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) into the ongoing trolley crisis at University Hospital Limerick (UHL). The Independent Deputy issued his request in Dáil Éireann after Junior Health Minister Mary Butler confirmed to him that the health agency has written to the CEO of the UL Hospitals Group with its evaluation of the current factors influencing overcrowding in the Emergency Department at UHL. Deputy McNamara also called on the Government to confirm if an independent review,

separate to HIQA's review, would be carried out after the Taoiseach confirmed to him last month that such a review would be considered. Minister of State Butler confirmed she would seek an answer to the request from Health Minister Stephen Donnelly. “A full review of

operations within the UL Hospitals Group is required if we are to ultimately find lasting solutions to the overcrowding issues,” stated Deputy McNamara. He continued, “HIQA has a limited remit and would not be in a position to put forward such recommendations as the upgrading of Ennis, Nenagh or St. Johns.”

REVIEW: Trolleys

Airplane accused FEROCIOUS BATTLE BRINGS HARTY SUCCESS intends to 'plead matter out' by RONAN JUDGE A MAN alleged to have caused a breach of the peace on a Ryanair aircraft is intending to plead the matter out, a court has heard. At Ennis District Court, solicitor Daragh Hassett said his client Ioan Remi Makula (25) could not be produced before the court due to covid rules in Limerick Prison. Makula was remanded in custody following his appearance at a special sitting of Ennis district court on Saturday. He was due to appear before the court via video-link on Wednesday but Mr Hassett said that was not possible as his client is isolating in line with covid protocols in the prison. At Saturday's special sitting, Judge Mary Larkin ordered that Makula be psychiatrically assessed while in custody. In court on Wednesday, Mr Hassett said he hoped the psychiatrist's report would be available next week and that the intention in the case "is to plead this matter out." Mr Hassett came on record to represent Makula after solicitor Tara Godfrey, who acted for the accused on Saturday, applied to come off record. Judge Mary Larkin remanded the accused in custody to appear again in court on February 16. Makula, with an address at Fearran Rí, Doughiska, Galway, was arrested following an alleged incident aboard a flight that landed in Shannon Airport at the weekend. He is charged with a single offence contrary to the Air Navigation and Transport act. The charge alleges that on a Ryanair flight from Manchester to Shannon on February 4, 2022, Makula engaged in behaviour of a threatening, abusive or insulting nature, whether by word or gesture, with intent to cause a breach of the peace or being reckless as to whether a breach of the peace might have been occasioned.

WINNERS: St Joseph's Tulla Captain Ronan O'Connor and TUS President Vincent Cunnane hold an arm each of the Harty Cup

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

THURSDAY, FEB 10 2022

NEWS

8 NEWS

THURSDAY, FEB 10 2022

THEY SHOWED GREAT HARTY TD calls for more supports for

domestic abuse organisations by ELAINE TUBRIDY INDEPENDENT TD Michael McNamara has called for wider supports for domestic abuse support organisations in light of recent figures highlighting an increase in the number of reports of domestic abuse in Ireland over the last 12 months, writes Elaine Tubridy. According to an RTE Investigates programme, aired on Monday night, the number of breaches of court protection orders in domestic abuse cases reported to An Garda “increased by more than 60% during the pan-

 DELIGHTED: St Joseph's Tulla supporters celebrate winning the Harty Cup at the weekend Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Ukraine love trip planner looks into 'niche' Traveller market by RONAN JUDGE

CLARE photographer who helped Irish men find love in Ukraine is now training his lens on matters of the heart closer to home. James Treacy is hoping to expand his photography business by turning to what he calls the "niche market" of weddings in the Traveller community. The Scariff man runs his own photography business and his work has featured in local and national media. The part time tour operator last year teamed up with American company 'A Foreign Affair' to organise trips to Ukraine for Irish men looking for love. Now the enterprising East

Clare man aims to widen his portfolio from sports and rural photography to include Traveller weddings. "I used to go to mass in Limerick on Sundays and see all the big cars driving around so I reckoned they'd have the money to pay me," James said. He continued, "Travellers, their money is the same colour as mine. I have a saying in Scariff, you can hide poverty but you can't hide wealth. For example if you have a hole in your jumper you can hide it by stitching it up but wealth is the exact opposite". James has advertised his services in the Traveller Voice and so far he's had a "few calls". "So people are interested. I wouldn't think that many

people are doing this area of photography. It is a niche market. It's like anything. You have to work hard at it if you want to do anything", he added. James studied photography at Limerick Institute of Technology (LIT) and Limerick College of Further Education. He recently became a member of the National Union of Journalists (NUJ). He teaches photography and his work has been used as part of RTE's Angelus broadcast. James said he is always looking for new business opportunities and is keen to expand into niche markets. "I'm the first man Ireland to run these trips to Ukraine to find wives for Irish men. I'm always looking for niche markets to move into."

demic”, when compared with 2018 and 2019. The RTÉ programme also examined how many services across the country are describing themselves as "overwhelmed". Deputy McNamara has described the increase in domestic abuse incidents reported to An Garda Síochána in 2021 as “alarming”. “In March 2021, I received figures showing that that Gardaí received approximately 43,000 calls to respond to domestic abuse incidents during 2020, representing a 16% increase on 2019. The figures sourced by RTÉ Primetime show

that this figure increased to 48,400 in 2021. "The year-on-year increase is alarming but unsurprising considering the public commentary by domestic abuse support organisations, including organisations in Clare, over the past year,” stated Deputy McNamara. He added, “While there are a number of organisations across Ireland working tirelessly to provide professional support to domestic abuse survivors, it is clear that wider supports are needed in light of the growing incidences of domestic abuse.”

Small talk can save lives THE Samaritans of Ennis and Clare are celebrating 40 years in operation this June. We are very grateful for the support of the Clare community on enabling us to continue to provide a service to our callers. People don’t need to feel suicidal to call us, we get calls from people who are; feeling low, worried about something or someone, experiencing mental health difficulties, domestic abuse, addiction issues, bullying, loneliness, sexual orientation, isolation etc. We receive calls from people all over Ireland as well as from Clare. Loneliness in Ireland is an epidemic that no-one talks about but at least lonely people know that the Samaritans are always there to talk 24/7 at free phone 116 123 or by email jo@samaritans.ie Callers value the confidentially, anonymity, active listening, nonjudgement, allowance to make their own decision, no advice , human contact, of the Samaritans service. It is a privilege to be there for callers in their hour of need. When a person is struggling even a bit of small talk can make a difference. Small talk saves lives. After a year of restrictions it's normal to feel anxious about making small talk, but having the confidence to act could save a life. Signs someone may need help How people act when they are struggling to cope is different for everyone. Here are some signs that somebody might need help: • The person is standing alone or in an isolated spot • They look distant, withdrawn or upset • If they are at a train station, they might stay on the platform for a long time without boarding any trains that stop Trust your instincts. If someone looks out of place or you feel something isn’t quite right, try and start a conversation. How to get started It can be hard to know how to approach someone who needs help. A simple question or observation can be all it takes to interrupt someone's suicidal thoughts and start them on the journey to recovery. Here are some tips on how to get the conversation started: • Introduce yourself • Ask their name • Ask if they are okay, or if they need help • Make a comment on the weather • Ask them where they are going • Ask if they know where you can get a coffee • Ask for the time What next? Once you have initiated contact with

someone, try to encourage them to start talking. • Listen to what they have to say and repeat it back, to make them feel listened to and understood • Encourage them to sit down somewhere safe and quiet • Ask the person if there’s someone you can call for them • You could mention sources of help, including Samaritans and their GP, as well as friends and family Looking after yourself Your help can make a huge difference, but it might impact you too. You might feel emotional afterwards and you might what to talk about what’s happened. If you feel like you need support you can speak to Samaritans by calling 116 123. Trust your instincts There is no right or wrong way to approach someone and you don’t need special training to help – you just need to start a conversation, something you do every day. You can't make things worse You might be worried that you’ll make things worse, but there’s no evidence to suggest that you will and you may still be helping even if you don’t get a response right away. The Samaritans have designed a SelfHelp App which can be utilised to improve mood and emotional health. https://www.samaritans.org/ireland/howwe-can-help/contact-samaritan/self-help/ We will be celebrating our 40th anniversary with different activities throughout Clare. Our Samaritans van will be clocking up miles throughout Clare. If any business or school would like us to give a presentation on the work of the Samaritans or would like to partner with us in 2022, you can contact us by using the enquiry form on our website https://www.samaritans.org/ireland/branches/ennis/ or by email at samsennis11@ gmail.com If anyone would like to be a Samaritans volunteer, which is extremely rewarding, details are available at https://www.samaritans.org/ireland/support-us/volunteer/become-samaritans-listening-volunteer/ During the last two years it has been more difﬁcult than usual to fundraise so donations are always welcome at https://www.idonate. ie/5275_samaritans-ennis---clare.html If anyone would like to organise a fundraiser email samsennis11@gmail.com or organise through Ennis iDonate page. Call 116123 if you are in distress.

NEWS 9

THURSDAY, FEB 10 2022

Shannon Airport signs up to net zero 2050 goals by ELAINE TUBRIDY

HANNON Airport is among 200 airports across Europe to sign a groundbreaking agreement towards aviation’s net zero 2050 goal. The Toulouse Declaration marks the first time that European Governments, the European Commission, industry, unions and other key stakeholders formally align on aviation decarbonisation. It paves the way for the establishment of an EU Pact for Aviation Decarbonisation, and globally as the industry looks to the UN’s ICAO to set a global goal for international aviation later this year.

"Airports have long been first movers in leading the challenge of decarbonising aviation. With almost 200 European airports now certified under the Airport Carbon Accreditation programme (link to ACA release), and close to 400 airports globally, our work to reaching net zero carbon emissions for those operations under our control by 2050 continues to make tangible progress. "European airports jointly made this public undertaking in 2019, and have since reconfirmed this goal with a number of airports publishing roadmaps taking them to this target by 2030 and a handful of trailblazers already there. They are also actively engaging with their business partners and stakeholders to advance decarbonisation of the broader air transport system. ACI EUROPE’s signing of the Declaration, both in its own right and as a partner in the Destination 2050 aviation industry roadmap, is now complemented by the individual undertaking of over 200 airports across the continent adding their signatures, including Shannon Airport," said a spokesperson for the airport. Welcoming the initiative, Mary Considine, CEO of Shannon Group said “Shannon Airport is a signatory to the ACI net zero 2050 pledge; signing the Toulouse Declaration reinforces this commitment to a net zero future. We are wholly committed to decarbonising our operations and are currently developing a carbon reduction plan that will map our journey to net zero”  GREEN: Airport ofﬁcials have signed the Toulouse Declaration

Solar power will reduce 'factories effect' on local environment by RONAN JUDGE A SHANNON based company says a proposed solar power project will reduce the "factories effect" on the local environment and help protect jobs. The medical devices company, Zimmer Biomet Ireland limited has applied to Clare County Council for planning permission to install 13MW solar photovoltaic system on the roof of it's premises, along with associated ﬁxing and mounting systems. The project would also involve the installation of a battery energy storage system and the installation of a back-up generator and two transformers. The location for the proposed development is East Park, Smithstown, Shannon Co Clare. In a letter to the council's planning department Jennings O'Donovan consulting engineers,

say the proposed development helps Ireland to maintain and build upon progress towards its renewable energy and climate change targets. "Sources of renewable energy that are utilised locally with minimal impact on the environment are necessary to meet the challenges of future", the letter states. The company says the installation of solar panels and a battery energy storage system (BESS) is necessary to reduce the company's carbon foot print and "form the foundation for further green initiatives to minimise the factories effect on the local environment and create a benchmark site for other local industries to follow". In a letter, Adrian Furey Zimmer's VP. EMEA Ops and Logistics, and Michael Finn, facilities assoc. director, say the project will also reduce energy costs

"whilst allowing the company to become more competitive, secure and create further employment and improve the conditions for the company's growth and the area". "Zimmer Biomet strives to become more energy efﬁcient and continue to be at the forefront of the industry long into the future. The proposed development is needed to ensure the long term success of the company. "At the same time it also reinstates Zimmer Biomet's long held commitment to the local economy and community in general", the letter states. In a letter to the council, the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) says it does not advise against the granting of planning permission for the proposed development. Zimmer established its premises in Shannon in 2008 and employs 450 staff.

10 NEWS

by NIAMH KINNANE N OPPORTUNITY to highlight Ennis’ links to James Joyce’s Ulysses, as the book last week celebrated one hundred years of publication. As celebrations take place worldwide to mark the centenary, including conferences, theatrical performances along with multiple audio versions of the famous novel, nothing marked the occasion in the town of Ennis despite multiple mentions in the book. The first piece of text that mentions Ennis, is about a building we all know, the Queen's Hotel. The hotel is mentioned when we hear about the father of the book’s protagonist, Leopold Bloom, committing suicide in the hotel which he owned. The "Medical Hall of Francis Dennehy" where the character purchased medication is supposedly located on 17 Church Street, which is

THURSDAY, FEB 10 2022

Missed opportunity to highlight Ennis link to Ulysses

the previous name of Abbey Street and the current location of Tierney’s Cycles and souvenir shop. Queens Hotel owner Donie Lyne told The Clare Echo that this segment of Joyce’s story was art imitating life. "An English guy bought the hotel in or around 1916 and true story, actually did kill himself. "What they think is that Joyce read that report, saw the name Isaac, and thought he was Jewish which fit into Joyce's own story." Mr Lyne added that the subject of Ulysses is rarely raised by locals or visitors alike,"No it's not something that pops up really, there is a plaque at the side of the hotel just outside the front door". Ennis councillor Mary Howard says it was a missed opportunity that the 100th anniversary of the book was not acknowledged locally, "It has huge significance when you think about it, it's the most celebrated and notorious novel of the 20th century.

"I suppose these things sneak up on us, we've been very focused on the pandemic over the last two years and different things like this have come and gone, it's a shame but maybe there will be something for the 101st." The book was actually written in three cities and took seven years to complete, first in Zurich Switzerland, then after World War 1 in Trieste Italy and was finished in Paris. It was eventually published February 2, 1922 just in time for Joyce's 40th birthday. The 730-page long book is filled with humour, puns and parodies. But as Mary acknowledged, "Well, it's a difficult book to read, I don't know how many times I've picked it up and put it down. "It's not for the faint hearted, but I certainly would recommend that people would try to read it but I think if we came up with an idea of making it easier by celebrating Bloomsday and the Ennis connection, I think people might look at the book a little differently".

AUTHOR:

James Joyce

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THURSDAY, FEB 10 2022

'The sustainability agenda'

NEWS 11 Ennis Data Centre

Campaigners from Futureproof Clare, Extinction Rebellion Clare and the Clare Environmental Network are united in their criticism against plans for the €1.2bn Ennis Data Centre, plans for which were lodged last July by Dublin-based Art Data Centres Ltd. The development, which is set to comprise six two-story buildings and a 50,310 square-foot energy centre, would be one of the country's largest and the site is expected to emit the equivalent of 657,000 tonnes of CO2 per year, amounting to approximately 1.1% of Ireland's estimated total. A decision is yet to be made on the development as Clare County Council wait on further information from the developers. Here, former local election candidate and founder of the Multicultural Council of Ireland George Atijohn, argues that the beneﬁts of a data centre in Ennis will outweigh any environmental concerns.

OPINION

George Atijohn

BELIEVE Clare County Council should approve the planning permission for the establishment of a datacentre in Ennis. I'm writing this article as a professional and someone who cares about the environment. I am aware that some individuals are legitimately concerned about the environmental damage caused by datacentres (DC). I also appreciate the promoters of datacentres’ anxieties about obtaining approval so that they can continue with their legitimate business. I believe that, in the end, the two parties will be able to achieve their objectives. Specifically, environmentalists will get an environmentally friendly datacentre, and datacentre proponents would have a value-for-money datacentre that is not only efficient to run but also has a lower operational cost. There are many new technologies and concepts that can help reduce carbon emissions and make datacentres more ecologically friendly by lowering Carbon dioxide levels.

Build Modular Data Centre The Open Compute Project (OCP) Modular Datacentre architecture uses modular solutions intended for OCP hardware. OCP hardware has two advantages: maintainability and scalability. For example, Facebook's new datacentre uses 38% less energy and costs 24% less to run than the company's previous facilities. Cooling Technologies The most essential advantage of liquid cooling over air-based cooling is that liquid conducts heat more efficiently than air. Because of its ability to successfully cool large heat loads, this sort of cooling can reduce power consumption by 20 to 30 percent. As a result, it is better suited to the ever-increasing massive amounts of data generated by data-driven technology. Green Revolution Cooling is an example of modern cooling innovation. GRC has been in use since 2009 and is currently deployed in over 20 countries. Submer in Barcelona, Asperitas in Amsterdam, and so on are some of the other companies. Sustainable Energy Sources Datacentres require steady, high-quality power 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Power outages cost businesses billions of dollars each year, and power quality issues such as voltage sags or surges can disrupt operations and destroy key equipment. Solar Panels Clare County Council should encourage DC operators to run their full DC business on solar power. Solar panels can be built on top of buildings or on water, as Singapore has done, and 'floating' solar systems are becoming the norm. Hydrogen And Fuel Cell Technology According to Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association, fuel cells are rapidly being used in datacentre applications due to their capacity to deliver high-quality, continuous energy, avoiding the chance of grid disruptions causing harm. Fuel cells generate energy by an electrochemical process rather than burning, and when pure hydrogen is utilized, no harmful pollutants are produced, simply water and heat. Combined Heat And Power (Chp) ComCHP is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly method of generating on-site electric power and useable thermal energy from a single fuel source. CHP

applications can function at 65-75 percent efficiency as stated by United States Department of Energy. Battery Energy Storage Systems Battery energy storage systems (BESS) could be used to replace diesel generators and achieve carbon-free operations. BESS+, on the other hand, integrates on-site/nearsite generation via solar, CHP, or fuel cell technologies. It is a long-term, safe energy storage device designed to improve supply reliability and lower energy prices. Finally, the fundamental goal of modern datacentre technology is to reduce datacentre power consumption and help the environment. According to BBC news, the heat generated by the servers might be used to heat a town or region, as seen in Sweden. Clare County Council should not toss out the baby with the bathwater. GEORGE ATIJOHN PG Cert. Applied Computer Network and Datacentre Design and Management Technological University of the Shannon M.A. Business Management Kemmy Business School, University of Limerick.

12 NEWS

THURSDAY, FEB 10 2022

SHANNON NEWS in association with

Potential for major energy investment at EI

by RONAN JUDGE

SUSTAINABILITY: Pictured at Ei’s new Near Zero Energy Building (NZEB) in Shannon at the announcement are Ei Chairman and CEO Mick Guinee, with Shannon Chamber CEO Helen Downes

HANNON has emerged as a potential location for a major investment in renewable energy under ambitious plans set out by one of the county’s biggest employers. EI Electronics is exploring the prospect of developing a co-located solar and wind farm in the vicinity of its Shannon headquarters or at another location in the mid-west. Peter Murphy, EI’s strategic business development manager, told The Clare Echo the company is “actively explor-

ing” sites for a long term renewable energy development. Mr Murphy said the factory’s proximity to Shannon airport means it might not be a suitable location but EI are looking at other sites in the region. “Obviously there would be issues with erecting wind turbines and and there is the flicker effect you get from solar panels. These issues are not insurmountable but it may mean that we are not be able to locate it where we are”, he added. Details of the proposed project are outlined in the company’s first annu-

al sustainability report, which was published this week. The company, which employs over a thousand people worldwide, has set a target of being net carbon zero by 2030. The report details green initiatives undertaken by EI over the past 18 months. Among the achievements, was a 52-tonne reduction in packaging in 2021. According to the report 1523 trees were saved in 2021, based on reduced consumption of paper; over 200 jobs were created at the company’s Shannon headquarters in the last 18 months while one million euros

was donated to charities, communities and educational establishments in react years. Mr Murphy said a combination of “internal and external pressures” led to EI drawing up the sustainability plan. “There are legislative requirements but it is something that we as company have been thinking about and looking at for a while. What we’ve noticed in recent years is people coming in for interviews are asking us about our environmental and sustainability policies whereas two or three years ago, you would never have been asked that.”

Tender for riverbank walk upgrade to be awarded shortly by ELAINE TUBRIDY CLARE County Council have conﬁrmed that a contractor will be named to upgrade the Shannon riverbank by the end of the week. Clare Independent TD Michael McNamara has expressed his hope that works will begin soon on the upgrading of a section of the popular riverbank walk in Shannon town, which has become impassable in recent years. “Funding received under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme will

enable the enhancement of the existing walkway, therefore returning it to a usable condition,” explained Deputy McNamara.“Clare County Council’s Shannon Municipal District ofﬁce has informed me that a preferred tenderer is expected to be appointed by the end of this week.” Deputy McNamara says he has been contacted by locals about the affected section of the Shannon Town Estuary Trail located at the rear of Drumgeely Hill.

FLOODING: The Shannon riverwalk

“This section of the Trail has fallen into a state of disrepair. The once solid surface has become potholed and is regularly impassable due to pooling water,” he added. “I look forward to the commencement of these much-needed upgrade works in the near future as I know that this walkway is very popular in the town and is used by many to link up with the industrial estate and other trails. “I want to commend the staff of Shannon MD for their efforts to progress these,” the TD concluded.

THURSDAY, FEB 10 2022

in association with

Heavy Ennis inﬂuence in NYC STUART HOLLY

editor@clareecho.ie

OME of Clare’s finest musicians will infiltrate New York in the coming weeks at the fifth anniversary of The Wolfhound Pub’s Trad

Week. Originally started in 2016 when the establishment was opened by Ennis native Rory Murphy in Queens, New York, this year is set to be the biggest event yet after last year was postponed due to Covid. Blackie O’Connell, Murty Ryan, Tara Breen and Siobhán Peoples are among the high calibre trad musicians from Clare flying Stateside to participate in the Festival, from February 14 to 20th. Contemporary acts such as Acoustic Ninjas, who are well known on the pub circuit locally, will also take the stage. Rory’s own family hail from Bal-

lybeg and his father Liam Murphy, who was a noted musician, sadly passed away last October. Speaking to The Clare Echo, he said that his staff and regulars have made life-long friends with the visiting musicians over the festival’s lifespan and he’s excited for this year’s reunion, which is all the more poignant following the passing of his father. “It’s important for me that musicians come from Clare, being that I’m from Ennis and my father brought me and my siblings up with trad music and was a well-known singer-guitar player for many year in Ennis,” explains Rory, himself a flute and whistle player. “Dad would fly out every year with these musicians that he played with for over 20 years that have now become close friends of mine. For me, having that unique trad sound that you can only find walking the streets of Ennis that I miss dearly and bringing it into

TRAD WEEK: The Wolfhound pub

a small local pub in Queens is an amazing feeling and one I love to share every year to all the locals here in Astoria, which I now call my home away from home.”

Ryan to hold ﬁrst public meeting since De Valera by ELAINE TUBRIDY GREEN Party leader Eamon Ryan TD will hold a public meeting in Ennis today (Thursday, February 10). This will be the ﬁrst time a Party Leader in Government has held a public meeting in Clare since Eamon De Valera’s days. Minister Ryan will be “In conversation on Climate” a public event hosted by Clare Green Party Senator Róisín Garvey. This free event, everyone is welcome and questions will be taken from the audience. The meeting will be held at The

Old Ground Hotel, Ennis on Thursday 10th February at 8.30pm. On Friday, Minister Ryan will give a Climate Action Plan brieﬁng to all the Co Councillors in the Council Chamber. In addition, he will join the Gaelscoil Mhíchíl Cíosóg Walking bus, visit public realm in Ennis and a social housing retroﬁt project and a visit to Shannon and the airport. Minister Ryan said about his visit to Clare, “I have spent a lot of time over the years in Clare, whether working in my young-

PARTY LEADER: Minister Eamon Ryan

er days bringing cycling tours around the beautiful towns, villages, back roads and coastline or holidaying myself and visiting good friends. “I have always found the Banner County a a great place to visit, beautiful and varied landscape, music and culture, friendly people and a place where people all over the county seem to ﬁnd new and innovative ways to earn a living be it in ecotourism, sustainable farming and much more. “As we face this climate crisis we need action and we need us all working together to make us resilient. I think the people of Clare are well capable of taking on the challenges ahead and I look forward to my visit.” Senator Garvey said, “It is great that my Green Party colleague Minister Eamon Ryan, the Minister for Climate, is taking the time to speak to Clare Co Councillors on the Climate Action Plan. In fact, he hopes to attend every council chamber in Ireland. I am delighted to also host a public event while he is in Clare. “Clare is one of the most vulnerable counties in Ireland when it comes to climate change because of our long coastline.”

Rory adds that this is the “most important” event on the pub’s calendar with live music being hosted all week, from live trad to bands and DJs. “The bar is always a lively

spot but this week stands head and shoulders above the rest. People will come from all over New York and surrounding states and some even fly in just for this week alone.”

14 COLUMNIST

THURSDAY, FEB 10 2022

Eoin Neylon

An inside look at Clare’s political spectrum With

With With

HAVE always been of the strong belief that what was good for the farmer was also good for the consumer. The Common Agricultural Policy was drafted to ensure the supply of quality food at a cheap price for the citizens of the EU. With improvements in technology, farmer’s efficiencies improved allowing for a better quality of life for the farmer alongside greater productivity that also ensured an abundance of food available for the consumer. In modern times food has made up a smaller percentage of people’s budget. As an example, a sirloin steak went from costing 3% to 1% of the average industrial weekly wage between the years 1955 and 2020. This example is only one of many where food has got more affordable but it would seem that change is in the offing with a global trend of higher food prices in the last 12 months especially. Most of the increased food prices are on the back of higher global demand especially for animal proteins like dairy, beef and lamb. This is against the back-



drop of slowing production in the main agricultural exporting nations. There is a global element to that trend but some of the optimism we as farmers would have felt about the buoyant markets is now tinged with a concern for where our costs will rise to in the next few months. Unfortunately, unless this cost inflation is transitory in its nature, higher food prices will have to be a reality going forward as it won’t be financially viable to produce food at pre 2021 prices. Volatility was often spoken about in the lead up to the abolition of quotas in 2015, however we didn’t see much extreme volatility in milk price in the intervening years rather a gentle flux. In the eleven months between January 2021 and November 2021 we have had more volatility in input costs and commodity markets than we have had in the previous 12 years. With the possibility of an invasion of the Ukraine by Russia, it would be foolhardy to discount what economic maladies a geopolitical event like that could wreak on the Irish

MEAT: Food prices are on the increase

farmer and consumer. Globalisation has in the main been a driving force of Ireland’s economic growth. Ireland is the fifth most open economy in the world. We export produce all over the world. As farmers global issues like how many children the Chinese are having concern us just as much as how much beef is being consumed domestically as most of our food goes abroad. One story that I think could have consequences in the medium term is the indication by the Fed in America to increase interest rates to help counteract inflation. The dollar is the world reserve currency so what happens in the US has implications this side of the Atlantic. Irish farmers in general are not highly borrowed but I do know that some of the government low interest loan schemes were very much welcomed as a means to expanding and improving farms and I think that they are essential especially for a young farmer at the start of their career. While money will never be free, hopefully it will remain competitive to borrow.

Cold comfort for bills

HEY say a home isn’t just a place it’s a feeling, but these days many homes have been feeling much colder than usual. The reason being people leaving their heating off in these cold weeks given the astronomical increase in fuel costs, not just in Ireland, but across the globe. Bills in the hundreds of Euros have been flooding into Irish homes throughout the early days of this year prompting many to turn down the thermostat and brave lower temperatures. As the Government scramble to come up with ideas to help citizens meet the high costs and rising prices across the economy, the also announced this week a massive €8 billion campaign to retrofit homes across the country. The thought being that by improving insulation, heating costs will come down, and with it carbon emissions, well into the future. But this will do little in the here and now as prices continue to soar. For the first time in a long time, neither housing provision, nor Covid-19 topped the poll in terms of issues citizens are most concerned about with over half of respondents to last weekend’s Ireland Thinks poll citing the cost of living as their greatest concern for the country. I can well believe it having seen the price of filling my modest 1.2L car soar from €55 to €80 a tank in roughly a year. Electricity and gas bills, food shops, road tolls, public transport even, have all seen large rises in various stages over the past few months with no end in sight. Coupled with the already

high rents seen across Ireland and people have become rightly ticked off. Yet not all blame can be laid at Government doors in this instance. On our adoption of the Euro currency, we ceded quite a bit of monetary policy to the European Central Bank, most notably, the monitoring and control of inflation across the Eurozone. In this instance, it appears the ECB has utterly failed on that remit, leaving its member countries scrambling to try to unilaterally come up with measures to ease the burden on their people. I’m usually a Europhile but have no qualms in pointing out when a European political leader or institution has let the ball drop as they have in this case. But back at home, the Government have not been their own best friend in recent days either. The commitment to go ahead with carbon taxes will be viewed as a welcome development by climate change activists but not by those feeling the squeeze. Likewise, the usually astute Sean Fleming putting his foot in it regarding his comments on shopping around on RTÉ Radio’s Drivetime didn’t help the mood music either. Fuel bill rebates will see some easing of the financial burden next month but won’t do anything structurally significant to help the matter either. If ever there was a time to be ambitious this is it. In fact, the Government could kill two birds with one stone on the back of their massive retrofitting programme, by linking rent rates on properties to their BER rating. Each rental property is

supposed to have a BER rating as it is, so therefore it should be relatively easy to establish a percentage sliding scale of current rents versus BER rating that would see A rated homes retain 100% of their current rental rate, but houses rated F or G would have half the rents restricted and handed back to occupants to help them with the rising heating costs, not to mention the already skyhigh rents. This would in turn incentivise landlords to avail of retrofit grants and improve the properties in order to restore the rental income rate, all based on the premise that the tenants cannot be moved on or out after the works are complete for a minimum period. It would seem like a winwin for the Government in aiding renters as well as tackling climate change simultaneously. Yet this €8 billion, on top of the recent €3 billion MICA redress scheme and the €3.1 billion housing budget for 2021 will come as cold comfort to the Clare victims of pyrite who continue to play the waiting game as Clare County Council and the Department of Housing move through the bureaucracy of getting the county onto a redress scheme of its own. It remains scandalous that families and individuals in the Banner have been left in the lurch when it’s plain for all to see that there are many open and shut cases of pyrite. With over €14 billion in various housing funds announced in the past few months, Clare deserves to have those in need taken care of too.

Arts & Entertainment 15

THURSDAY, FEB 10 2022

Riverdance star to storm glór stage

by ELAINE TUBRIDY UDIENCES are in for a treat as former Riverdancer Breandán de Gallaí (inset) will be bringing his new show Walls Talk to glór, Ennis, on 16th March, as part of a 10 venue tour across Ireland. Breandán has been at the forefront of pushing the boundaries of traditional and contemporary Irish dance in Ireland for over three decades. His role as a principal dancer with Riverdance, which spanned more than seven years, saw him tour the globe with numerous prestigious performances including dancing for King Hussein of Jordan, the Emperor of Japan and Princess Diana. Inspired by the phrase 'if

these walls could talk', the show features de Gallaí’s mesmerising solo dance routines set against songs from the golden era of jazz and blues, performed live on stage by jazz singer Gina Boreham. Speaking ahead of the tour, de Gallaí is encouraging audiences to come and be inspired: “We’re hugely excited to be presenting this work in Ennis, particularly at a time when Ireland is emerging from Covid-19 restrictions and the power of live performance has been largely absent from our lives for over two years.

“The show explores the notion of memory recorded in the material world around us. The narrative is told through the movement of the body and audiences will be wowed by Gina’s Live renditions of the jazz and blues classics. We hope to inspire audiences and challenge preconceptions of what dance can be”. “Walls Talk” is produced by Ériu Dance Company. Established in 2010, Ériu is one of Ireland’s leading dance organisations dedicated to promoting Irish dance as a living and ever-evolving tradition. Ériu’s productions aim is to push the boundaries of the Irish dance tradition with a view to challenging and developing audiences for the genre. Walls Talk will be performed in Glór, Ennis on March 16. Tickets start at €15. Tickets cost €18 /€16 + €1 booking fee. Visit glor.ie or call 065 684 3103 for more information.

Edel Murphy brings the songs of 20th century women to life

‘It was like shooting Star Wars’ SHOOTING Smother in Co Clare at times was “like a Star Wars movie,” leading actors for the hit RTÉ drama have said, writes Páraic McMahon. Clare’s glorious setting has been a shining light in the two series of the Sunday night drama airing on RTÉ One with the backdrops of Lahinch, Fanore and the Burren serving as a fine advertisement for the county’s rich beauty. Speaking to The Clare Echo, Justine Mitchell, James O’Donoghue and Elijah O’Sullivan who play Elaine, Calum and Jacob respectively were all in agreement as to the most impressive area in

the county that they filmed in, that being the Giant’s Playground in Carron. Justine outlined, “The Giant’s Playground in the Burren, that was incredible. It really did feel like we got there and moments before like two dinosaurs had just stopped fighting each other and went around the corner somewhere, it has this ancient feeling, it is really good for your soul because you realise you are so tiny. What’s so beautiful about that first drone shot that Cathal did for the opening when we’re scattering the ashes, the drone shot is so beautiful, it really captures

that we’re tiny specs on this eternal landscape, it’s so good for your head”. “We all felt like we were in a Star Wars movie, it felt unbelievable, it was like an alien planet, the way the landscape is carved out, it’s amazing. It was one of my favourite places to film,” James admitted. Youngest cast member, Elijah added, “It was a very unique place to be, there’s very little soil, it is all rocks and the gaps and cracks between them, it was interesting terrain to travel on”. The final episode in the series will air on RTÉ One on Sunday night at 9.30pm.

 Motherland: Edel Murphy

DEL Murphy brings her new show to the glór, Ennis for a special performance to mark International Women’s Day, 2022, writes Elaine Tubridy. Motherland: Songs of 20th Century Women features evocative projected images alongside thought-provoking spoken word and iconic songs of struggle and celebration. Following extensive tours with Grammy winning shows Celtic Woman and Riverdance, Edel Murphy and live band bring you through the Dustbowl of the Great Depression, into the homes of 1950s urban desperation, down streets of protest in the 1960s and into the tumult

of the 21st Century. Featuing songs from Joan Baez, Bob Dylan, Nina Simone, Kate Bush, Nanci Grifﬁth, Dolly Parton, and The Beatles, Edel’s show has been described as “A poignant and socially relevant journey over a century of music. “Edel Murphy owns these songs and the stage. It was a very moving experience and the musical arrangements are masterful” (Carl Corcoran, RTÉ Lyric FM). Catch Motherland: Songs of 20th Century Women in glór, Ennis on Tuesday Mar 8th, 2022. Tickets cost €18 /€16 + €1 booking fee. Visit glor.ie or call 065 684 3103 for more information.

16 COLUMNIST

THURSDAY, FEB 10 2022

SPICY DEEP FRIED HALLOUMI

LOVE street food. Succulent hand held bites sold out of food trucks, horseboxes or even renovated firetrucks. There’s something lovely about holding a little paper bowl filled with some world cuisine, that lets face it, is rarely seen in restaurants or gastropubs. One of my favourite street foods is Deep Fried Halloumi. A spiced crispy outside hiding a salty creamy core. Perfect food to pair with beers or cocktails, it really does surprise me that I rarely see it on pub menus. I will be paring it with a spicy raita, which is a yoghurt based dip.

Kearney Cooks

YOU WILL NEED • 1 block of Halloumi • 100g ﬂour • 1tsp paprika • 1tsp smoked paprika • 1tsp tumeric • 1tsp garlic powder • 300g Greek yoghurt • 1 green chilli • 1clove garlic • 1 handful of fresh coriander • The juice of 1 lemon • Salt and pepper to season

Step Two Mix the flour and spices in a bowl. Cut your Halloumi into chip size batons and coat in the flour and spice mix, making sure to shake off any excess flour.

Step One Put the yoghurt, chilli, garlic, coriander and lemon juice into a blender and blend until you have a smooth and runny dipping sauce. Congratulations, you just made a raita.

Step Four Horse into some of the tastiest street food you will ever make at home. I suggest serving with a couple of brewskies.

Step Three Deep fry the Halloumi at 180c for a couple of minutes or until they are golden brown. Serve it up with your raita on the side and maybe sprinkle a few chillies on top.

If you wanted to expand on this dish,

these fries go fantastic with a bit of slaw, or some buttered corn on the cob. Also, don’t be afraid to play around with flavour here. Halloumi goes well with lots of spices, and if you’re feeling especially brave it goes great with hot spices such as chilli powder or cayenne pepper. As usual if you have any questions about this recipe or others please feel free to message me on Instagram @ stevekearney37. Also keep an eye to my Instagram or the Clare Echo Facebook page for the instructional video that goes with this recipe.

Enjoy

Steve K

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FEATURES 17

THURSDAY, FEB 10 2022

GREEN CLARE

New biodiversity grants issued to local groups

STUART HOLLY

editor@clareecho.ie

WELVE Clare communities are receiving support to help local efforts to protect native plants and animals by developing biodiversity plans. The supports are being provided by The Community Foundation for Ireland in partnership with the National Parks and Wildlife Service at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage as part of a joint Environment and Nature Fund, which is now in its third year. Funding is being provided under two strands so that Clare communities can respond to a biodiversity emergency which has seen many native species under immediate and ongoing threat. Under the first strand grants are being provided so that 10 Clare groups can assess the impact of the emergency amongst native species in the countryside, woodlands and along riverbeds. In the second strand groups who have already developed their plans will be working with an expert

ecologist to draw up a community biodiversity action plan within their local community or with two or 3-5 local landowners. This funding is being awarded to two local groups. Announcing the grants Minister of State for Heritage at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Housing, Malcolm Noonan TD, said: “I am very happy to continue to support this innovative scheme that

connects local communities with ecologists. This scheme will enable local communities to become more effective environmental stewards and empower them to establish a shared vision for conserving biodiversity in their local areas”. Denise Charlton, Chief Executive of The Community Foundation for Ireland added: “There is real passion and energy in Clare communities to reverse the crisis facing our native plants and animals. “Our fund has already seen citizen scientists mobilised to protect peat-lands,

the plan will help protect native plants

CLARE GRANTS – STRAND 1  Lisdoonvarna Failte CLG - €2000  Quin Tidy Towns and Development - €2500  Ballynacally Tidy Towns - €2800  Newmarket-on-Fergus Tidy Towns - €5500  Kilkeedy Community Group - €4000  Ogonnelloe Community Centre CLG - €3000  Cooraclare Tidy Towns - €2400  Ruan Tidy Towns - €5000  Bareﬁeld tidy towns group - €3000  Ballyea Community Group - €5000 CLARE GRANTS – STRAND 2  Sixmilebridge Community Development Association - €4000  Doonbeg Tidy Towns - €3000

native butterflies, bats and birds as well as plants and trees even during a pandemic. “With this latest funding in partnership with Government we are setting our-

selves long term goals by offering Clare communities access to ecologists who will advise and guide on the actions which need to be taken. “This will see groups

re-assured that the actions they take are the right ones which will be impactful by delivering benefits not just for the immediate future but for generations to come.”

WHAT GOES IN MY RECYCLE BIN?

Gift of spring

18 FEATURES

RONAN SCULLY

Thought for the week

GAIN it has been a long worrisome year since last Spring when we yet again battled against various restrictions and lockdowns and where we faced so many challenges and heartbreakingly lost so many more loved ones. Yet, there is something about the Gift of Spring that awakens a feeling of optimistic expectation. Am I crazy or do we also come alive in springtime? I remember when younger I was involved in musicals in my little home town and recently while walking in nature I remembered the lines of a song from a musical that a cousin of mine sang and it went “younger in springtime are you...’ and it made me think how true that statement is. Though the day at present on which I’m writing this column could only be described as cold, we’ve already had a sweet taste of the warm spring days before us and it has given us a new ‘spring’ in our step and has made us in some ways feel younger and more alive! I love spring.

Season of Renewal

“Just as there are seasons in the world around us, so there are in our interior life,” Teresa of Avila wisely observed. “We cannot expect it to be otherwise.” Spring is a season of renewal and rebirth. It’s a time when buds become leaves and flowers, when healing rain washes roads and streets and falls like grace on parched country fields, when the ground beneath us softens to allow shoots of new life to emerge. As outside, so inside. Spring is a time for cleaning out and making way for fresh possibilities and new commitments. It’s a time to revive our senses and expand our horizons. It’s a time to begin again. Spring awakens and enlivens us in a way no other season can. We remember what new life looks like, we remember what possibilities can be just around the corner, and we remember that beauty is all around us if we only look and become aware. At this time of year, we tend to want to clean our house and rid ourselves of anything that reminds us of the long, cold winter and this year especially anything that reminds us of the Coronavirus and lockdowns. We want to open our windows to let in the clean, fresh air. We want to toss out anything that clutters our house. We usually refer to this as spring cleaning. We want to get rid of anything that reminds us of the cold, dark months of winter and the many months of lockdowns so we can allow in the beauty of

spring. But just as we have spring cleaning, we can also use this time as one of spiritual spring cleaning. When spring arrives, more sunlight brightens your home as the days grow longer, and fresh air blows in once the temperatures warm up enough to open your windows. But all the light and fresh air reveal what you may not have noticed during the dark, cold days of winter: Your house is a mess. It’s not fun to see the clutter and dirt that needs to be cleaned up around your house, but the more light and air that flows in, the more motivated you are to do some spring cleaning. Spring cleaning can be more than just a chore, however. It can actually be exciting if you use the time to start cleaning up something far greater than your house: your soul. The closer you get to Jesus – the Light of the world – and the more you invite the Holy Spirit to blow the fresh air of His love into your life, the more you become aware of how messy your soul has become. Thankfully, there’s no sin too messy for God to clean up when you follow His divine cleaning plan of confession, repentance, and reconciliation. So while you’re spring cleaning your house, invite God to clean your soul. It is a time to clear out our spiritual house, so we become receptive to God’s love and bring joy and happiness into our lives. Our spiritual house is our body and mind in which our soul resides. We must free ourselves of the clutter of mind and matter so that God’s Holy Spirit can flow in.

Spring Clean

Since we put so much time and effort into cleaning our homes, offices and outer self at this springtime of the year, shouldn’t we also do some spiritual spring cleaning of our heart, soul and inner self? There comes a time when we must clean out the wardrobes of our life so that we may have room for items that will enhance our life. Let’s search the wardrobes of our lives and make a trip to the rubbish bin. Throw away any hatred that may be lurking there and be sure to toss out jealousy, bad attitudes, dishonesty, complaints and hypocrisy. Before you finish, throw away that grudge you’ve been carrying against someone. Make room to add love, honesty, forgiveness and kindness and not to mention thankfulness for all God’s blessings. Go on and make room for reverence and respect for God from whom all good gifts come. Stand back and look: Your life’s wardrobe is looking better, isn’t it? Take a moment today to spring clean your

heart and soul. Ask God to come in and if He finds anything else that should not be there, take it out so that you can live a life more loving and caring. Try and change those behaviours that have not helped you to achieve your goals in life. Look at replacing old ways of thinking and reflecting, that hold you back, with new thoughts that will inspire you and help you to enjoy this journey called life. If something in your life is not fulfilling you as it should be, maybe set limits or determine if it is time to move on and discover things that do fulfill you.

Thought for the week

As your thought for the week, approach spring as though it is the first time you ever experienced it, the first time you ever saw a flower, a tree growing, a bird flying. Open your heart to love, to beauty, to prayer, to reflection and meditation, to clarity, to God. Leave the old behind and be reborn during the season of spring. The gift of hope is representative of the spring season, the image of the sun peeking through the clouds. You are reborn as the sun is reborn each day. Each spring your spirit will burst out of the darkness of winter. Make your spirit bright like the colors of Nature. Feel the world through your heart. This is a time to leave behind old patterns, old ways of doing things, and embrace the power and beauty of new life. I pray that as the signs and the magic of spring begin to show themselves all around us, that you will remember that each new day is like a cleared field ready for planting. Your thoughts, attitudes, and actions are the seeds you plant. Let us be moved by this vast and gentle insistence that goodness shall return, that warmth and life shall succeed. Help us to understand our place in this miracle. Let us see that as a bird now builds its nest, bravely, with bits and pieces, so we must build human faith and life. It is our simple duty; it is the highest art; it is our natural and vital role within the miracle of spring; the creation of faith and life. God, thank you for the Gift of Spring and the hope of warmer, longer, brighter days. Thank you for the coming of growth and life and birth. Thank you that things are coming awake in the world. This is what our calendar says, and we do see some signs that it is real. But we also still struggle with the residual layover of winter. Now we ask that you bring into reality all that belongs in this season.Your word says that we will have provision, and hope, and joy, and health and loving relationships here and now in this life. We ask that what belongs in this season would become actual in our practical lives. We hope in you and in your promises. We hope for your gift of Spring. Have a great Spring everyone!

THURSDAY, FEB 10 2022

FREE PERIOD AT MIC

PERIOD POVERTY: Róisín Burke, MISU President, Dr Lorraine McIlrath, Director of Equality, Diversity, Inclusion (EDI) and Interculturalism, Professor Gary O'Brien, Vice-President of Governance & Strategy and Aoife Gleeson, MISU Vice-President pictured at Mary Immaculate College. The College has teamed up with the Mary Immaculate Students' Union (MISU) to fund free sanitary products for students and staff at both its Limerick and Thurles campuses in a bid to combat period poverty

Photo by Brian Arthur

Town Centre First plan launched ELAINE TUBRIDY elaine.tubridy@clareecho.ie

HE Government has published Town Centre First – a major new policy that aims to tackle vacancy, combat dereliction and breathe new life into town centres. Green Party Senator Róisín Garvey has welcomed the launch, noting the Green Party’s long appeal for a “Town Centre First approach to support local communities to bring life and vibrancy into towns across the country”. Senator Garvey stated: “With the launch of this policy, the Greens in government are delivering on a key Programme for Government commitment to develop a Town Centre First policy, modelled on the scheme developed by the Scottish Government, and informed by the Town Centre Living Initiative pilot project. “This policy sets out a number of ways in which local communities will be empowered to come up with their own plans to bring life back to their towns. What we’ll see is structures being established and supported at local level, with funding to be provided by central government. “I’m delighted to see that a Town Regeneration Ofﬁcer will be appointed to Clare Co Council to help train and support a ‘Town Team’, made up of local stakeholders such as residents, businesses and community groups, to develop a ‘Town Centre First plan for towns like Ennis, and to know that our local authority staff will be on hand to support this work. “The ‘one-stop-shop approach in Local Authorities will

make it easy for businesses and residents to access supports for building adaptations and renovations, and much like Tidy Towns, the awards programme for Town Teams will really help to incentivise people to get on board.” A Town Centre First approach revitalises and regenerates towns by bringing vacant and derelict buildings back into use and creating new opportunities for unused lands that will encourage more people to live and work within our rural towns and villages. In addition to quality housing and job opportunities, this approach also ensures that good transport links, safe and accessible public spaces, and climate resilience is at the heart of how we plan our towns. Senator Garvey continued: “This approach gives the people of Ennis and other towns an opportunity to shape the future of our town, and to inﬂuence decision making on things like heritage, our public realm, how we plan the town going forward, how we tackle issues like vacancy and dereliction. From a Green perspective, this also empowers the community to put climate action, sustainable mobility, and regeneration of our public and green spaces at the heart of our Town Centres First plan. Speaking at the launch, Green Party Minister of State with responsibility for Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan TD stated; “I’m delighted to launch the Town Centre First policy with Minister Humphreys and Minister Burke. This is an important step towards empowering our communities to create towns and villages we want to live in and be proud of. Architecturally, culturally and socially, the Irish town is unique.”

COMMUNITY 19

THURSDAY, FEB 10 2022

Community LABASHEEDA MEMORIAL RUN THE seventeenth annual ‘Patricia Corbett Memorial Walk/Run’ will be held in Labasheeda, (or can be done virtually), on Sunday, February 13th starting at 1pm. This year, all funds raised will be given to the West Clare Cancer Centre in support of their wonderful work. The course is 6 miles/10km around the scenic Labasheeda peninsula and we are delighted to be back on the local roads again this year after ‘going virtual’ in 2021. Of course the option is still there for people

CONTACT

NEWSDESK 065 671 9021 news@clareecho.ie

ENNISTYMON to do the walk/run in their own locality if they so wish, but the main thing is to get out and about in support of this worthy cause. The organising committee will ensure that you receive a warm welcome to St. Kieran’s Community Centre on the day, registration is necessary before the start, changing facilities are available and refreshments will be provided for everyone afterwards. The entry fee is only €10 and donations can be made online or through Paypal @ LiamWoulfeLab. Everyone is welcome to take part.

ENNIS ST PATRICK’S DAY PARADE ENNIS Municipal District is delighted to announce a call for participants for the 2022 Ennis St Patrick’s Day parade. The annual county parade is open to all individuals, groups, clubs and societies from across Clare. We look forward to welcoming back those who normally actively participate in the parade and would encourage and warmly welcome new additions to the line-up this year. The theme is ‘Coming Together’, with prizes to be secured under the following categories: • Best visual spectacle (€300) • Best musical entrant (€300) • Best interpretation of theme (€300)

• In addition, the overall winner will gain €500. The application form is available at https:// www.clarecoco.ie/your-council/[news]/callfor-participants-in-2022-ennis-st-patricks-day-parade.html or a hard copy can be requested by contacting ennisparades@ clarecoco.ie. All application forms must be completed and returned on or before Wednesday, 16th February, 2022, to: St Patrick’s Day 2022 Organising Committee, Municipal District of Ennis, Clare County Council, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare; or by e-mail to ennisparades@clarecoco.ie. Please email this address if you have any queries.

Resumption of Sport and Physical Activity Fund – Clare Sports Partnership CLARE Sports Partnership has secured additional Exchequer funding from Sport Ireland to support community sport and physical activity organisations with the impact of COVID 19. This investment programme was allocated through targeted grant schemes to develop a Fund to support the Resumption of Sport & Physical Activity. CORE OBJECTIVES AND GUIDING PRINCIPLES The stated objective of the COVID 19 scheme is to protect the sector from permanent financial and strategic harm arising from the public health crisis. The primary purpose of the scheme is to prevent any viable community sports organisations from becoming insolvent. The secondary purpose of the scheme is to ensure that the community sports sector has the capacity to make a significant medium and long-term contribution to the public health of the nation. The distribution of funds will be consistent with the aims and values of the National Sports Policy 2018 – 2027. This investment is new and is in addition to funding provided previously to Clare Sports Partnership in 2021. RESUMPTION OF SPORT & PHYSICAL ACTIVITY FUND Through this scheme Clare Local Sports Partnership is operating a local scheme to support community groups & clubs who may not be affiliated to a national organisation or recognised National Governing

Body for Sport, but provide vital local sport and physical activity opportunities. These grants would cover costs associated with COVID 19 and reopening including insurance, overheads, Covid 19 related consumables, volunteer supports etc. Organisations such as community centres, scout groups, older adult groups, Family Resource Centres, community groups that provide physical activity opportunities and non-affiliated sports clubs are invited to apply. A maximum of €1,500 can be provided to each successful applicant. Local clubs affiliated to a NGB, should apply directly to the respective NGB for support as this will be available under scheme 3 and the Indoor Sports Fund under scheme 5. See the link below this link to view the list of National Governing Bodies that have been funded. Separately – the IRFU, FAI, GAA (including Ladies football, camogie and Handball) club support will be embedded within their overall Scheme 1 allocations. Clubs affiliated to these NGBs should contact the NGB for support. HOW DO I APPLY? The application process is through and online form which must be completed before 5pm on Friday 25th February 2022. For more information regarding application criteria and Terms and Conditions Resumption of Community Sport and physical activity grants on www.claresports.ie/ resumegrant

lBABY GOAT: Clare Talty and Claire Hefferon visited St. Tola’s Goat Cheese Farm in Ennistymon with Clare Macra na Feirme on Sunday

20 RECRUITMENT

THURSDAY, FEB 10 2022

It’s all in the name… Martin Daly Autos has a new home

he word is out… The name that has become synonymous with quality tyres and auto services (plus an impressive sporting career) here in Clare brings great news to Ennis. Martin Daly Autos has moved and taken up a new home in Quin Road – offering a full range of car repair services and conveniently, centrally located for local drivers and businesses. “We’re really excited to move into our new home at Quin Road Business Park and take this next step of our business journey – continuing the Daly name and reputation for quality auto services,” says owner Martin Daly. “We’re taking with us our good name for straight-up customer service and excellence in auto repairs. People see our name and they know what they’re getting – it’s as simple as that.” A PEDIGREE ENNIS COMPANY The company’s story began back in 1989 when Martin’s father established a business selling car parts. The business has evolved over the years, growing ever-stronger - and today Martin Daly Autos offers a full suite of auto services – from new tyre and tubes, digital wheel aligning and diagnostics, to full servicing and pre-NCT checks. The fully experienced team comprises two auto mechanics, two tyre technicians and

an office manager, and is well-known for providing an expert, knowledgeable, professional service complemented by great customer care. The company believes that one of its greatest points of difference is that is has fully-qualified and experienced mechanics working on all cars – not fitters. This means the business’s go-to approach is always to look at repair, rather than replace – which can mean valuable cost-savings for customers: “Our honest approach truly sets us apart. We supply a quality service, we tell it like it is, we charge accordingly and we stand-by our word. If we can save a customer money by repairing a part rather than putting in a new one, we’ll do that,” says Daly. Martin Daly Autos also aligns itself with some of the best names in the business – stocking quality brand name tyres including Cooper, Infinity, Bridgestone, Michelin, BFGoodrich, Pirelli, Continental, Kleber, Kenda, Uniroyal and Firestone. The company has excellent weekly offers available, adding value all the way. A REPUTATION OF RELIABILITY “80 Per cent of our business consists of loyal, long-standing customers – and that speaks volumes about what we offer in terms of service and price. And our customers send their friends and family to us: just the

other day someone came in who’d been told ‘if you want looking after, go to Martin Daly.’ We’re really proud to have that reputation.” Of course, the name Martin Daly might also call to mind many other achievements! Probably Clare’s greatest footballer ever, and certainly their greatest-ever forward, Daly is most notably remembered as ‘the fella who scored that miracle goal’ against Cork in 1997 in Cusack Park, changing football forever. Today Daly is pleased to be encouraging young up-and-coming players in the sport and trains the Lissycasey Under 17’s team. He’s an active member of his community and a champion for local business. For more information, please contact Martin Daly Autos on 065 6867336

THURSDAY, FEB 10 2022

€442,000 to help plot long term joint strategy for TUS THE allocation of almost €450,000 to TUS (Technological University of the Shannon) as a member of RUN-EU (European Regional University Network), will help plot

a course to implement a shared, integrated, and long-term joint strategy for the new technological university and its partner universities, writes Stuart Holly. That was the message from TUS Vice President Research, Development & Innovation Dr Liam Brown who welcomed the announcement of the €442,000 funding by Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, Clare County Council is currently inviting applications Simon Harris on behalf of the HEA from suitably qualified persons for the below (Higher Education Authority). competition. Clare County Council will, following the A flagship initiative of the Europeinterview process, form a panel for the area set out an Union, the ambition is to build a below from which future relevant vacancies may be European Education Area and Eufilled subject to sanction approval from the Department ropean Research Area with the asof Housing, Local Government & Heritage. sistance of European University alliances – including RUN-EU. These • BUILDINGS MANAGER, 2022 alliances will help create a European (OPEN COMPETITION) inter-university ‘campus’, where stuCompleted applications must be emailed to: dents, staff and researchers enjoy recruitment@clarecoco.ie not later than 4.00 p.m. seamless mobility (physical, virtual on Thursday 24th February 2022. or blended) to study, train, teach, do Application forms and further particulars may be research, work or share services at obtained by requesting same from the Human Resources cooperating partner institutions. Department, Clare County Council at 065-6846251, via Dr Brown explained, “The RUNe-mail: recruitment@clarecoco.ie or can be downloaded EU long term vision places innofrom the following website: www.clarecoco.ie vative teaching, learning, research Clare County Council is an equal opportunities and engagement at the centre of the employer and welcomes applications from all sectors alliance activities and plots a course of the Community. to implement the shared, integratScriobh chugainn as gaeilge más fearr leat. ed, and long-term joint strategy of the European Universities, with students at the centre. This funding will help us further along this journey.”

RECRUITMENT 21

Tips for planning your wedding THINKING of getting engaged but overwhelmed with all that is involved and this is making you nervous before the ring is ever picked? Please don’t be, here Clare based wedding planner Kate Deegan is on hand to give her expert opinion

What type of style would you like your wedding – so this would then depend on what type of venues you have in mind as nowadays it is not just the hotel wedding and if it is a hotel wedding a lot of hotels are offering different things as they know that couples are looking for their weddings to be different and unique. But lots are opting for converting areas such as barns, bespoke country houses that are gearing to just weddings each week, pub that have a restaurant and then a night club area for dancing later.

How many guests are you wanting to invite. This is a huge factor to the type of venue that you have because if you are wanting a Manor/country house then a lot of these venues do not cater for large weddings. How are you going to decide on your plus ones? If letting everyone have a plus one then your guest list in soaring so think about this wisely.

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Budget – the dreaded word but it is real and you have to work at this because you do not want to be going in over your head in debt because everything costs money. Work out what are the important parts to you for the wedding and then cost out what you can spend on each. If things are tight ways to work around it is to postpone the wedding for another year so you can save more – or have a shorter engagement and see what suppliers are available that would give you a better rate as with the short lead in time they will not fill their date. I often see advice that ‘get a friend to do the photos’ or ‘do the flowers/cake/decor yourself ’ and honestly I think this advice is not good. Photos are for life and there is a huge difference between a professional photographer and a friend doing a few snaps. Flowers, cake and décor can only be done last thing and it makes no sense to see a bride in her function room setting the room with her bridesmaids the night before when she should be enjoying their company elsewhere and relaxing before the big day as this work is time consuming and exhausting! Include everything into the budget so there are no big surprises – even stamps for invites are Eur1 now!

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Take It One Step at a Time Put together a wedding planning schedule and do things one by one, in a logical order, so you don’t take on too much too fast and end up with everything snow balling around you. Do not hire any suppliers before you’ve confirmed your date, don’t put the deposit down on the venue until you see that you celebrant and venue for the ceremony are available – once you get your dress, a lot of the design can flow from this from invites to cakes, flower and decor.

Enjoy it all! Every single second. Don’t get stressed or caught up on silly things – big picture is you are getting married to the love of your life. It will be one of the best days of your life so take it all in and breathe!

Ceremony – again lots of options on this now which we are going to do a full feature on because there are so many possibilities open to you from Church, civil, humanist, spiritual, non religious, semi religious, pagan blessing.

Keep as much info about the wedding to yourselves. This is always something I tell my brides whether I am coordinating or styling the wedding. The only time I see a bride upset on the run up to the wedding is when ‘aunty Mary said I shouldn’t be going with those flowers or that I should have my hair up not down’ or she thinks we should pick a different band to suit everyone’. It has nothing to do with Aunty Mary and she doesn’t mean any harm but once you start talking about the different elements of your wedding to everyone they will all give their opinion and then you head will start to sway and you will start to doubt your own decisions. Also the other side to this is if you are going on and on about your wedding all people will want is for it to be over as they are sick of listening about it! Not too many can do this but if you can…… book your venue and church, photographer and band before you get engaged – I know this can not work for some people but for others who are planning on their engagement it can work out very well if you can do this because a lot of the stress for a wedding comes the minute you get that ring on your finger because people are asking – have you picked a date yet, where is the venue, what are you going to do etc – so if you have quietly done this already then you are going to really enjoy your engagement as the pressure is off already.

Kate Deegan Tel: +353 (0)65 68 33774 / +353 (0) 86 8220 300 Email: info@co-me.net

www.perfect-details.com

New celebrant Imelda to support ‘all the community’ STUART HOLLY editor@clareecho.ie

MELDA Kennedy is looking forward to “telling the story” of the people of Clare as she begins her new career as a community celebrant. Imelda is available to officiate life’s joyous celebrations including wedding and naming ceremonies as well as the more difficult times when a loved one passes. The Newmarket-on-Fergus native emphasises the importance of telling the love story of a new bride and groom on their wedding day, or indeed tell the story of your loved one at their Funeral service. Imelda – who previously worked in her family’s funeral home in Ennis where she took a strong interest in supporting grieving families – says she “saw the need” in the community for an alternative way. All ceremonies officiated by Imelda whether joyful or sad can be hosted outdoors in

nature and by holy wells, at the family home, at a funeral home or a place of your choice. Imelda has studied many ancient healing systems for over 30 years and is also well known for her singing, both of which will be incorporated into a holistic celebrant s ervice. “Coming from my background of classical training as a singer I would have a great insight into music, supporting people

during funerals in picking relevant pieces that would reflect the person’s life. I’m just taking it a step further by becoming a celebrant,” says the Ennis resident. Additional ceremonies Imelda will officiate for include elopements, anniversaries or people renewing their vows. “It can be any kind of a celebration in the community, a graduation, a special birthday,” explains Imelda, adding that she will cater towards non-religious or semi-religious ceremonies. “I would like to be known as a community celebrant rather than a civil celebrant. I’m a celebrant for all occasions. “My main focus is on the person and telling the story of the person or people involved. Their qualities, their work, their background, how they grew up, the community where they came from, in the case of funerals, what they loved mostly in life and really reflecting on their gifts. Then with the weddings, it will be telling the love story; how did the couple meet, what were the circumstances around

the story. A love story is so important because it tells how two people came together.” Imelda notes that more Irish people are opting for cremations in recent years with the latest statistics showing that the number of people opting for cremation here is now one in five, and rising. “In the case of a non-traditional funeral, I’m there if I’m needed to tell that person’s story whether it’s in a crematorium, outdoors in nature, at a cemetery, or at a funeral home.” All of her ceremonies will be at the discretion of the family, says Imelda who is inspired by Celtic symbolism. “It would be important to say that I am spiritual but if people are non-spiritual, I would respect their views in whatever they decide. I’m a celebrant for all people, all religions.” For all enquiries, visit Imelda’s website at https://imeldakennedycelebrant.ie/, email imeldakingkennedy@gmail.com or call 087 278 6717. Imelda also welcomes families to request her services via their funeral director. *Photo by Myriam Riand

Three Perfect Locations for your Wedding P hotography

1 Corcomroe Abbey:

2 Ballybeg Woods, Ennis:

Set in the heart of the Burren...this early 13th Century monastery in its ruined raw state, needs no embellishment and makes for a stunning majestic setting for your wedding ceremony or that epic photo.

Nestled away amongst the green trees and earthy woodland, this wedding shot sings romance and the contrast in colours makes it all the more stunning. That little moment immersed in nature, just the two of you, will surely stand out as a wedding day highlight.

Lakes of 3 Killaloe:

Tips for Clare grooms

OUR Mrs to be is more than likely doing most of the wedding planning (and most of them prefer it that way), but there’s no harm in getting yourself prepared for the big day. We’ve got you, grooms. Check off every item on this list and you will be the best husband ever, in their eyes at least.

of it. Take a trip to Ennis and check out Manix, Club Dangan and Patrick Bourke’s, who will have you kitted out in no time. Two months before the wedding should be plenty of time to get the suit sorted, but the sooner you check it off the list the better.

BUY HER A GIFT There are the classic gift options such as a nice piece of jewellery, her favourite perfume or lingerie. But we think you need to dig a little deeper here and put some major thought into this. Is there a place/time of year/restaurant etc. that’s special to both of you? Incorporate it into the gift and she will be mighty impressed.

GROOMING FOR THE GROOM Fellas generally have it easy when it comes to looking good, as they don’t have to put a huge amount of effort into their appearance. Your wedding day is one occasion where you want to look (and feel) your best, so it won’t hurt to put in a little prep work. Start taking care of your skin regularly before the wedding, step away from the burgers and hit the gym. You will thank us. Also, make sure to get a haircut a couple of days before the big day.

FLOWERS FOR THE MOTHERS For the love of all that is holy, do not forget the mothers on your wedding day. Make sure you have a bouquet of flowers to present to your own mother and the mother in law to be. It’s a lovely gesture and to be fair, we would be lost without them.

THE SUIT This is one area where you have (almost) complete control, so make the most

LOOK AFTER YOUR GROOMSMEN It may seem obvious, but it’s your job to make sure your best man and groomsmen are sorted for the wedding. Help your best man with his speech, give them a game plan for their various responsibilities (making sure the band is paid etc) and show your appreciation with a gift. Have their back and they will have yours on the wedding day and beyond.

Is there anything more tranquil than the stillness of a lake? Arrive by boat and you’ve got “Notebook” romance status right there! Wait until evening for that beautiful light.

Your perfect day at The Inn at Dromoland

ESTLED on the 450 acre Dromoland Estate and overlooking the panoramic Shannon Estuary, The Inn at Dromoland is the ideal venue for your Wedding Day Celebrations. Part of the Dromoland Castle family, Wedding Couples can expect the very highest levels of hospitality and service. From lavish arrival receptions, to the highest quality menus which are locally sourced, the hotel aims to exceed every expectation, with the renowned service for which the hotel has long been known. The Ballyhannon Suite is elegantly dressed with Ivory Drapes and both packages include room décor with well-known local supplier, Ri Weddings & Events. A wide array of table centrepieces, along with chair covers or Chivari Chairs with silk or organza bows complete the perfect wedding day look. Couples can also enjoy the majestic backdrop of Dromoland Castle and Lough for those all-important wedding day shots, exclusive for their Bridal Parties. The Ballroom also benefits from its own Private Garden, which may also be used for arrival receptions or outside Civil Ceremonies. The Inn at Dromoland has been approved by The Registrar’s Office as a suitable venue to accommodate civil marriages and partnerships. Our wonderful all-inclusive packages start from €50pp and we still have some limited availability for 2022 and 2023 dates. To arrange a wedding consultation and viewing of the hotel please call Pauline Cassidy, Wedding Coordinator on 061 368161 or email pauline.cassidy@theinnatdromoland.ie.

For more information on our wedding offering visit www.theinnatdromoland.ie

Plan Your Wedding Day At The Inn at Dromoland

Voted as Wedding Dates 'Top Rated Wedding Venue in Co. Clare for 2021', Book your Dream Wedding at the Inn at Dromoland now!

ALL-INCLUSIVE PACKAGES STARTING FROM €50 PER PERSON Call Today and Arrange a Show-Around with your Dedicated Wedding Co-Ordinator Pauline Newmarket on Fergus, Co. Clare. - (P): 061-368161 - (E): info@theinnatdromoland.ie - (W): www.theinnatdromoland.ie

The House to yourself at Carrygerry...

ARRYGERRY Country House was built in 1793 in Newmarket-on-Fergus, Co Clare. Due to the nature and location of the property overlooking the Shannon Estuary, the team at Carrygerry are unique to any other hotel in the area, and can offer you the House completely private to you for your special day. “We only cater for one wedding on any particular day, to ensure personal service and individual attention is at it best throughout your special day. We at Carrygerry pride ourselves on sourcing only the finest local and organic produce to produce a wonderful dining experience. Our fine reputation for quality food with service guarantees that both you and your guests have a memorable day. Having won a number of awards over the years from Country House of the Year to Blas na hEireann National Food Awards where we won Gold, Silver and Bronze and also Great Taste Gold Star for our food range.

The role of bridesmaid

OW helpful will your bridesmaids be to you on your day? It may not be something you think about as you automatically think they will be there for you - but this is not always the case. Being a wedding planner I have seen them all – bridesmaids that run to the brides’ every need, ensuring she is carrying tissues, carrying the bride’s lippy for the touch-up through out the day, running to the loo to help with that long trail and fixing the bride when she may need it to ensure that she looks radiant throughout the day. This is what you should do if you have been asked to be a bridesmaid - but this does not always happen. Unfortunately I see more of the opposite, the bridesmaid that thinks more about the way they look on the day, spends a long time getting ready that morning, asking the bride and other bridesmaids where her makeup and accessories are and not being ready to help the bride, or even be there to ‘ahh’ and ‘ooh’ the bride as she puts on her dress. Some are very fond of socialising around the bar/drinks reception and are nowhere to be seen when the photos are to be taken! I have often been forced to step in as the bride’s friend/maid on the day, assisting her with removing her veil, going to the bedroom so that we can bustle the dress, letting her know when leaving the house that she has lip stick on her front tooth. Being the wedding planner, of course I do not mind assisting the bride with this (as we have built up a great relationship while working together) but really it is an honour to be asked to be a bridesmaid and when it comes to their turn to be the bride they would be shocked to think someone could act like this – a bridesmaid having to go to bed during the meal as she drank too much all day and can not hold herself up at the top table – this has happened and it was the bride’s best friend. If you are a bride reading this, ask your bridesmaids to read this article so they know - just in case they were to be the ‘self-centred’ bridesmaid without realising it. Choose your bridesmaids wisely as I think it Tel: +353 (0)65 68 33774 / +353 (0) 86 8220 300 is sad when the bride is left to look after herself on her big day.

Kate Deegan www.perfect-details.com

Happy ever after at Hotel Woodstock

EAN and Elaine Lally are renowned wedding specialists and co-owners of Hotel Woodstock, they’ve built their legacy on adding that personal touch to each and every happily ever after. Sean and Elaine have curated bespoke wedding packages at their award-winning hotel, that compliment the uniqueness of their venue. There is truly something for every couple, from intimate weddings, to their most popular ‘Happy Ever After’ package (from €54pp). Your first step across the threshold of Hotel Woodstock is like stepping into a fairytale and every step is taken to make your day tru-

ly special. The Lally family believe that the finest details create the finest moments, which is why Sean and Elaine are with you every step of the way. The couple will start the day at the steps of the hotel offering a warm welcome to each of your special guests, while overseeing every aspect from start to finish to ensure you have a truly memorable, stress-free day. The stunning Liscannor Suite with its magnificent Waterford Crystal Chandeliers is the perfect venue for

a magical wedding that will promise a day of elegant tradition, sophistication and superb food. Situated on the grounds of Woodstock Golf Club there are ample opportunities to capture stunning memories of your special day. The Hotel is also fully licensed for on-site ceremonies, with the option to cater for outdoor ceremonies, weather permitting. For enquiries please contact Elaine at elally@hotelwoodstock.ie or call 065 6899800.

Old Ground steeped in history & tradition

HEN it comes to wedding hotels in Clare look no further than the Old Ground Hotel Ennis. The wedding team at The Old Ground Hotel is on hand to share their expertise with couples in the planning stages. Steeped in history and tradition, the four-star Old Ground Hotel is located in the heart of Ennis and right on the doorstep of the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, The Wild Atlantic Way, and the beautiful Burren. The hotel's immaculate private gardens provide an enchanting backdrop for a perfect wedding day and those memorable images. The elegantly refurbished Ballroom 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. The Lemenagh fireplace, from the Great Hall of Lemenagh Castle, offers a uniquely characteristic photo opportunity amidst this ever historic hotel. Over the years, countless brides and grooms have chosen to let the Flynn Family take care of them on their special day. The team at The Old Ground is committed to making your dream wedding come to life by ensuring every detail is executed to absolute perfection as you celebrate with loved ones and create memories to last a lifetime. Choose the Old Ground Hotel Ennis for your wedding venue, with its old world charm and welcoming atmosphere - you'll be guaranteed a day to remember for both you and your guests. For more information on our wedding packages please contact our dedicated wedding team on 065 68 28127 or email sales@oldgroundhotel.ie to discuss the range of packages available and arrange a viewing of our Wedding Suite.

When it comes to wedding hotels in Clare look no further than the Old Ground Hotel Ennis. The wedding team at The Old Ground Hotel is on hand to share their expertise with couples in the planning stages. Steeped in history and tradition, the four-star Old Ground Hotel is located in the heart of Ennis and right on the doorstep of the breathtaking Cliffs of Moher, The Wild Atlantic Way, and the beautiful Burren. The hotel’s immaculate private gardens provide an enchanting backdrop for a perfect wedding day and those memorable images. The elegantly refurbished Ballroom 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. The Lemenagh fireplace, from the Great Hall of Lemenagh Castle, offers a uniquely characteristic photo opportunity amidst this ever historic hotel. Over the years, countless brides and grooms have chosen to let the Flynn Family take care of them on their special day. The team at The Old Ground is committed to making your dream wedding come to life by ensuring every detail is executed to absolute perfection as you celebrate with loved ones and create memories to last a lifetime. Choose the Old Ground Hotel Ennis for your wedding venue, with its old-world charm and welcoming atmosphere - you’ll be guaranteed a day to remember for both you and your guests.

For more information on our wedding packages, please contact our dedicated wedding team on 065 682 8127, email sales@oldgroundhotel.ie or visit www.oldgroundhotelennis.com

Wedding trends for 2022 Décor/Floral

Think big and bold. Centrepieces oversized beauties amongst regular centrepieces with tons of candles. Table scape - everything is thought of from the elaborate centrepieces dotted in the room to napkin, menus – even a change of colour in the water glass. Touches such as napkin décor – the simplest of things make the big impact. Hanging features are huge for 2022 - If you can get something hanging in the room as a feature this is all the rage for 2022. Whether it is drapes, fairylights or flowers and greenery feature what people want to see is something floating in the sky.

Dress

The princess fairytale dress is back and with also the veil making a statement too. Then for later it is a change to simplify it down and so you can party the night away.

Stationary

Not just the invite anymore – a full suite of stationary from save the date to invite to welcome note to menu – all accentuating the table décor so really personalising it for the couple.

Food/Drinks

More grazing - clever, imaginative, food served at the drinks reception – chocolate fountain are again filling the gap. Dessert buffet with tons of options for people to help them selves. Sweet and savoury and more brought out after you think there can be no more options! Irish/Bailey coffee stations. Gin bars with all the trimmings and large glasses with tons of ice from early till late.

Kate Deegan Tel: +353 (0)65 68 33774 / +353 (0) 86 8220 300 Email: info@co-me.net

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MOTORING

THURSDAY, FEB 10 2022

PLUG AND

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F BIG is better then bigger again must be brilliant, and huge must be amazing, right? Well, not necessarily. You see, this Skoda Kodiaq is the biggest car that the Czech brand currently makes. And that’s good, because it comes with acres of space inside, seats for seven, and levels of comfort and refinement that have to be experienced to be believed. However, it also comes with a price tag that’s rather larger than can be covered by the word ‘big.’ Humungous is more like it, as this particular one we’re testing, in Sportline spec, clocks in at a whopping €61,192. Yes, you read that right. I’ll wait here for a mowasyou never this have easy abefore. When ment T while go and sit down and electric cup carsoffirst a restorative tea. launched, a decade thoseany early models camespendwith Canago, a Skoda, Skoda, be worth built-in ranges, ing that much hassle. moneyShort on? Well, let’sinconsissee... Thetent big charging budget gets you a big power outopportunities, high pricput, because Sportline es, and a sensethis thatKodiaq you were driving comes somewith latest the VW thingthe that wasgeneration closer to a of fridge thanGroup’s a car. 2.0-litre TDI diesel engine, which now develWell, that has all changed and this new ops 200hp. It has the same 400Nm of torque Renault Zoe exemplar of that change. as before, butisitan also has a ‘twin-dosing’ AdWheninjection the Zoesystem originally launched, it sufBlue that almost completefered fromthe most, if not quite all, those ly nullifies nasty emissions of of nitrogen early electric Renault oxides (NOX) —car theshortcomings. harmful emissions that

RENAULT ZOE R135 GT-LINE

kept updating and refining the Zoe, though,

kicked off the whole diesel scandal six years ago. With all that power and torque, performance — even in a seven-seat SUV that weighs 1,700-odd-kilos — is actually decent brisk. A 7.8sec 0-100km/h time was, not so long ago, hot-hatch performance. Not that, in spite of the Sportline badge, this is a car to go racing around in. It’s far better, and more appropriate, to work the torque, left the automatic dual-clutch DSG gearbox slush into making it better every time, and for 2020 a higher cog, and cruise along in a more there’s this, the all-new model. relaxed style. You’ll get better fuel econoWell, say all-new... under the a my thatI way too, and Actually, the Kodiaq returns skin, the basic structure chassis of the real-world 7.5-litres per and 100km, pleasingly Zoe as theyclaim were,ofbut6.8-litres the body,per closearetomuch the official although familiar, looks are a little sharper, 100km. CO2 emissions a little chunky, at 177g/km, means ato€600 annual and Renault which has managed carve out atax bill, but to put thatinside, in perspective, that’sno still little more space so that you less inhave motor tax than someone driving longer to constantly rub elbows with a pre-2008 1.8-litre petrol. your front-seat passenger. Cruising along in such a relaxed fashion Much theample Zoe’singives you more ample importantly, time to enjoy the battery and electric motor has are new. The terior. Up front, the Kodiaq a relatively 52kWh battery in Zoe is far, far almost larger than simple dashboard. You could call it the pair inofitsAA Duracells in the ‘slabby’ styling, but theyou usegot of materials original. fact,quality with only extraexcellent. 2kWh and the In build are an simply There’s a hug panel to of the imitation to play with relative Zoe’s carbon-fibre closest ri-

that covers a big glove box, and Sportline 270-litres. Fold all the back seats flat and spec brings with it gloriously comfortable you have an IKEA-swallowing 2,005-litres to high-backed leather bucket seats, and a play with. This is a very, very practical car. leather wrapped steering wheel that’s deHowever, talking of practicality swings us lightfully tactile to hold and use. back around to price. Yes, it’s nice to have Use it, and the Kodiaq proves surprisingly the Sportline spec with its muscular bodykit, adept in the corners. Not surprisingly, it’s no big, lusty engine, nice wheels, and gorgeous sports car, but it feels accurate and relative- seats. However, €61k, if you’re a family car ly agile for something so big, grips well (the buyer, is a bit much really. So here’s what optional four-wheel drive helps, here, but I’d suggest. Look back down the Kodiaq don’t to get you very rangethat to allows that basic model with the sa-e — expect the Zoeit can squeeze out far an off-road), extra charger, it to Active make the most of lowand of rides comfortably in spite of the optional 1.5 petrol engine.Hook It actually has cheaper 45km claimed one-charge range. With a er-powered chargers. a Zoe up to one of (and gorgeous) 20-inch alloys. annual motor tax than the big diesel, and fully-topped-off battery, the Zoe should be the ESB’s 22kW on-street chargers (the boxy In the back seats, there’s lounging room probably won’t work out an awful lot thirstier good for asand much as 395km. In people fact, you’ll and green ones, located pavements) and aplenty, space for three acrosswhite if you don’t thrash it, andon you’re not doing probably better but thanit’s that you’re driv- it’ll mega-mileage. add 125km worth of range in with just one hour the reardobench, a if slight disappointPlaying around Skoda’s ingment mostly around where regen-childof charging, while you we nipspecced to the shops or with have to note that town, there are onlythe ISOFIX online configurator, one up seat anchors the outer twotorear seats, notsome seven and some and erative braking insystem helps scavenge lunch.seats At home, with a choice 7.4kWhoptions home-charthe charge middle as one (there’s in mixthe frontger wall-box, got a price tag fill of €39,654. Which much,to extra you go, butanother if you’re it will the battery fromisempty seat). In miles, the back-back seats,the brim muchinmore likenine it. Or you while couldyou wait, and ingpassenger in some motorway the realistic around hours snooze. there’s justtoabout tolerable room Which for adults, The assuming without range drops around 250-280km. fact thatyou this could modellive is called thethe Zoeextra R135 as ever such seats are really designed seats, get the new all-electric Enyaq iV SUV. is but stillkids, pretty decent. also reveals another — the for and generally for short hops. This big Kodiaqimprovement has big appeal, butelectric you’d Better thethird Zoerow charges quickly. which has been to deliver — Fold still, those seatsupdown (easilymotor, be just as happy withbeefed a moreup affordable verPlug it into a 50kWh charger what — 135hp and 245Nm of torque (aldone — you just tug rapid a handle and and shove)guess sion. it’lland go from to 80765-litres per cent charged you’reempty left with of luggagethough the extra power does strip a little range inspace, aroundup30-45mins. The Zoe hasWith a neat to the luggage cover. all theaway — 386km compared to the full 395km of seats in use,—there’s a half-way decentthe cheaper R110 version). That makes the Zoe trick, though it has still a clever charging

RENAULT’S ALL-ELECTRIC ZOE PROVES HOW

vals — the Peugeot e-208 and Opel Cor-

system built-in, called the Chameleon

feel very zippy indeed, and even when you’re

ALL NEW

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Models shown: Sport Tourer Iconic E-TECHedc Plug-in Hybrid 160 –rrp RRP €30,356; finance ZOE GT Line Z.E.50 R135 – RRP €32,427; Clio 140 RS Line E-TECH Hybrid 140 – RRP €29,307; Captur S-Edition E-TECH Plug-in 160 – RRP €30,037 (ZOE, Captur and model shownMégane is an arkana rs line tce140 mild hybrid, €35,140. example arkana iconic tce edc. otr €31,090 includes delivery. deposit €10,809. term Hybrid 36 monthly Mégane RRPs SEAI grant for cost privateof buyers, prices validinc in November 2020). Finance example ZOE Play R110 Z.E.50. RRP €27,728. Deposit 48 monthly payments of €339. APR Total cost of credit €659 inc fee of €75. Offer is payments ofinclude €259.€5,000 apr 4.90%. total credit €2,467 fee of €75. optional final payment €13,350. offer is made under€11,534. a hire Term purchase agreement. subject to2.11%. lending criteria. made under hire purchaseapply. agreement. deferral availableyou on request. First payment will be taken 90 days activation of finance agreement. Subject to lending criteria.name Terms and conditions apply. See Renault.ie terms and aconditions seePayment renault.ie [warning: will not own these goods until theafter final payment is made]. Renault Bank is a trading of rci banque branch ireland[Warning: You will not own these goods until the final payment is made]. Renault 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. and is authorised and regulated by the french banking authority and supervised by the central bank for conduct of business purposes.

HOGAN MOTORS ENNIS Hogan Motors

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THURSDAY, FEB 10 2022

THE ALL-NEW ŠKODA FABIA. FOLLOW YOUR DIFFERENT. With sculpted lines and sporty proportions, the all-new Fabia is designed to make an impact. From its sharply cut LED headlights which extend into its wide ŠKODA grille, to its elongated roof spoiler and sizeable wheels, no detail has been spared. Starting from only €19,150, contact us today to find out more.

Al Hayes ŠKODA, Gort Road, Ennis, Co. Clare. Tel: 065 682 2400 • www.alhayesskoda.ie WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure) combined fuel consumption for FABIA in l/100km range from 6.1 to 5.0. WLTP combined CO2 emissions in g/km range from 138 to 113.

MOTORING

10-02-22

Clare Echo THE

pg 34

instagram.com/ClareEcho twitter.com/ClareEcho facebook.com/clareecho clareecho.ie

DR HARTY CUP FINAL: ST JOSEPH’S SECONDARY SCHOOL TULLA 0-17 ARD SCOIL RÍS 0-14

FROM TUS GAELIC GROUNDS, LIMERICK

Unstoppable Tulla soar to Harty crown the lively Colm Cleary turned a two point deficit into a four point cushion by the 40th minute. Their luck appeared to be in when Shanahan again came to the rescue to deny Shane O’Brien only a minute later. Undeterred, Ardscoil Rís did finally spark a backlash with four of the next five points through O’Farrell, Rian O’Byrne, O’Brien and Dylan Lynch to set up a grandstand finish at 0-15 to 0-14 by the 51st minute. However, a resolute Tulla were not to be denied as despite the hammerblow of seeing what would have been a clinching goal twice denied by Clonlara’s Seimi Gully, the determined East Clare collective, led supremely by captain Ronan O’Connor, fired the last two points. They inevitably arrived through scorers-inchief Withycombe and Cleary to add St Joseph’s Tulla’s name to the Munster Senior A Post-Primary Schools Championship roll of honour.

EOIN BRENNAN

T JOSEPH’S Tulla’s sheer momentum proved unstoppable as they soared to a first ever Harty Cup title at the expense of Ardscoil Rís in the TUS Gaelic Grounds this afternoon. With 22 of the 45 Clare natives seeing action over a compelling hour, this historic occasion was duly accentuated by a fairytale winner to boot, a fully merited victory as it turned out. Going toe-to-toe with the five time winners against the strong conditions in the first half to only trail by the minimum by half-time, St Joseph’s Tulla duly hammered home their advantage on the turnover, with a six point unanswered blitz proving the catalyst for a memorable win. What a battle it was though, commencing with a seesaw opening period that was level on six occasions before wind-assisted Ardscoil edged 0-9 to 0-8 in front by the break. East Clare duo Sean Withycombe and Niall O’Farrell both led from the front on the scoreboard for their respective sides with six points apiece while crucially the Limerick side were denied two goal chances. Dylan Lynch cleared the crossbar with the first while in injury-time, Ardscoil might have snuck what would have been a freak goal when O’Farrell’s mishit free looked destined for the right corner. Up stepped goalkeeper Aaron Shanahan though, pulling off a brilliant reflex stop to tip the ball onto the post and somehow back across the line before drifting away for a ’65. A goal at any stage would have been major but a relieved Tulla made the most of their reprieve

Colm Cleary keeps his eye on the ball despite pressure from a defender and flying hurley

and the welcome conditions to put themselves into the ascendency in the new half.

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Six points in eight minutes through Withycombe (2), Darragh Keogh (2), Oisin Clune and

Fionn Hickey, Oisin Clune, Darragh Keogh and Sean Withycombe celebrate after their excellent performance in Limerick on Saturday helped secure a first ever Dr Harty Cup for St Joseph’s Tulla secondary school Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Scorers for St Joseph’s Tulla: Sean Withycombe (0-10, 6f, 3’65); Colm Cleary (0-3); Darragh Keogh (0-2); Ronan O’Connor, Oisin Clune (0-1 each) Scorers for Ardscoil Rís: Niall O’Farrell (0-7, 2f, 2’65); Rian O’Byrne, Shane O’Brien, Dylan Lynch (0-2 each); JJ Carey (0-1) St Joseph’s Tulla: 1. Aaron Shanahan (Tulla) 2. Dara Ryan (Tulla) 3. Adam Hogan (Feakle) 4. Fionn Ryan (Tulla) 5. Mikey McMahon (O’Callaghan’s Mills) 7. Oisin Clune (Feakle) 6. Tony Leyden (Tulla) 8. Ronan O’Connor (Feakle) (Captain) 9. Darragh Keogh (Clooney-Quin) 10. Oisin O’Connor (Feakle) 11. Sean Withycombe (Tulla) 12. Fionn Hickey (O’Callaghan’s Mills) 14. Conor O’Donnell (Broadford) 13. Colm Cleary (O’Callaghan’s Mills) 15. Eoghan McMahon (Crusheen) Substitution: 18. Aaron Curtis (Tulla) for E. McMahon (43) Ardscoil Rís: 1. Seimi Gully (Clonlara) 2. Evan O’Leary (Ahane) 3. John Fitzgerald (Na Piarsaigh) 4. Colm Flynn (Sixmilebridge) 5. Vince Harrington (Na Piarsaigh) 6. Cian Scully (Dromin-Athlacca/Banogue) 7. Michael Gavin (Ballybrown) 8. JJ Carey (Na Piarsaigh) 9. Rian O’Byrne (Crecora Manister) 10. Oisin O’Farrell (Askeaton) 11. Niall O’Farrell (Broadford) 12. Brian O’Keeffe (Murroe-Boher) 14. Dylan Lynch (Na Piarsaigh) 13. Shane O’Brien (Kilmallock) 15. David Kennedy (Sixmilebridge) Substitutions 19. Dara Casey (Sixmilebridge) for Flynn (30) 18. Diarmuid Stritch (Clonlara) for O. O’Farrell (45) 22. Sam Hickey (Adare) for Casey (56) Referee: Michael Kennedy (Tipperary)

ST JOSEPH’S TULLA: Frees For: 11 (6/5) Wides: 6 (1/5) Scores from Play: 0-8 Spread of Scorers: 5 Top Scorer: Sean Withycombe (0-10) Own Puck-Outs won: 9 from 17 (53%)

ARDSCOIL RÍS Frees For: 13 (9/4) Wides: 3 (1/2) Scores from Play: 0-10 Spread of Scorers: 5 Top Scorer: Niall O’Farrell (0-7) Own Puck-Outs won: 14 from 23 (61%)

AIDAN HARTE, ST JOSEPH’S TULLA JOINT-MANAGER

towards us in the last two weeks that we didn’t have to go looking for and I think that showed on the pitch today. The players soaked all that in in the last few weeks but by God they gave back in that performance today.”

“The players are just unbelievable. I suppose the biggest challenge for young people or anyone involved in sport is to do it when it counts most on the biggest stage. And for these guys this is the biggest stage for them in terms of their school and underage careers and they responded by being outstanding from start to finish, there’s no other way of putting it. “They probably don’t realise how important this is, it might be a year’s time, it might be five years before they realise that they actually won a Harty Cup, something so competitive and against a team that have been through an excellent underage set-up in their school, clubs and county in Limerick as well as the Clare lads of course. “Just to do it for their clubs and communities. I mean there’s been an outpouring of just good will

CORMAC O’DONOVAN, ARDSCOIL RÍS JOINT-MANAGER

“The Tulla side we came up against today were so hard-working, hungry on the breaks and on the day probably were a bit more economical with their scoring chances. “Only being a point up at halftime, having played with such a strong wind in the first half, naturally you’re going to be under pressure straight away in the second half. The third quarter turnaround is what ultimately separated the sides. In all the other quarters, it was quite even As strong as the elements were today though, it wasn’t the reason we lost, we were just beaten by the better team.”

pg 35

10-02-22

HARTY CUP CHAMPIONS 2022

The St Joseph’s Tulla squad and (below) fans enjoying the occasion on Saturday as they witnessed the East Clare men create history in Limerick

Photos by Gerard O’Neill

10-02-22

pg 36

NATIONAL FOOTBALL LEAGUE DIVISION 2, ROUND 2: CORK 1-13 CLARE 1-13 AT PÁIRC UÍ CHAOIMH

Clare show resolve in thrilling draw by John Coleman

CORK and Clare played out a thrilling draw in Pairc Uí Chaoimh last night in Division 2 of the Allianz NFL. In a game that was tied on seven occasions both sides seemed to have done enough to win it in the final ten minutes yet in the end a share of the spoils was the fair result. When Keelan Sexton cracked home a penalty for the Banner men to give them a 1-11 to 0-11 lead with ten to go there seemed to be only one winner. Cork, however, had other ideas as they kicked the next two points before Brian Hurley had a chance to level the game with a free from distance. His effort dropped into the square and found its way into the net to put Cork two in front with three to play. Clare then somehow managed to muster scores from Emmet McMahon and Daniel Walsh to tie it at 1-13 apiece. Mark Cronin had a late chance to win it for the Rebels, but his free dropped short before Maurice Deegan called time. Cork played into the elements and had the better of the opening quarter but failed to make it tell significantly enough on the scoreboard. Points from John O’Rourke and Brian Hurley kicked them into an early lead, but Keelan Sexton soon had the Banner men level with two quick scores of his own. Blake Murphy then put Cork back in front, but their wide tally had made it to five before Jamie Malone levelled matters for the second time in the eighteenth minute. Quick fire scores from Murphy and Hurley then pushed Cork clear again but David Tubridy’s opening score and a free from

once again evened the tie. The came the game changing moment. Podge Collins drew the foul inside the square, and Sexton buried the resultant penalty past Micheál Martin. Cork showed great resolve thereafter, with Brian Hurley and Mark Cronin reducing the margin to the minimum before Hurley’s goal turned the game on its head. But then, so did Clare as they enter the break with three points on the board while Cork is stuck on one and are facing into a real battle to retain their status. Scorers: Cork – B Hurley 1-4 (1-2 fs), B Murphy 0-3, F Herlihy 0-2, J O’Rourke K O’Donovan, S Powter (free) and M Cronin 0-1 each. Clare – K Sexton 1-5 (1-0 pen, 1 ’45, 3 fs), E Cleary 0-2 (fs), C O’Dea, A Griffin, D Tubridy, J Malone, E McMahon and D Walsh 0-1 each. Cork: M Martin; K O’Donovan, K Flahive, T Corkery; R Maguire, S Powter, M Taylor; S Merrit, C O’Callaghan; D Dineen, B Murphy, J O’Rourke; M Buckley, B Hurley, D Buckley. Subs: M Cronin for M Buckley (42 mins), P Allen for Merrit and F Herlihy for Murphy (both 48 mins), E McSweeney for Flahive (61 mins), C Kiely for D Buckley (67 mins). Clare: S Ryan; M Doherty, C Brennan, C Rouine; C O’Dea, C Russell, A Sweeney; C O’Connor, D O’Neill; D Bohannon, E Cleary, P Lillis; A Griffin, K Sexton, D Turbidy. Subs: J Malone for Bohannon (8 mins), P Collins for Tubridy (48 mins), D Walsh for Sweeney (55 mins), E McMahon for O’Connor (64 mins), C Downes for Lillis (70 mins). Referee: M Deegan (Laois)

Eoin Cleary scored two frees for Clare against Cork en route to a thrilling draw

Sexton evened it up again with ten minutes left to the break. Murphy slipped Cork back in front again, but Clare then began take control as the Rebels struggled to punch holes in their rear-guard. Eoin Cleary restored parity, Cian O’Dea gave them the lead for the first time with a super score from distance before two Sexton strikes from dead balls gave them a 0-9 to 0-6 lead at the interval. The second half opened like a game of

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

chess as both sides patiently tried to find gaps in the respective defences. Cork’s Seán Powter was the first to do so as his long range free fortuitously bounced over the bar, but this was quickly cancelled out by a free from Cleary. Cork then hit a purple patch, reeling off three in-a-row from Hurley, Fionn Herlihy and Kevin O’Donovan to tie the game for the fifth time. Aaron Griffin then restored Clare’s lead before substitute Herlihy’s second score

CORK Wides: 9 Frees for: 18 Spread of scorers: 7 Scores from play: 0-10 Top scorer: Brian Hurley - 1-4 (1-2 frees) Bookings: 1 (Blake Murphy) Own kickouts won: 17

CLARE Wides: 8 Frees for: 13 Spread of scorers: 8 scores from play: 0-7 Top scorer: Keelan Sexton - 1-5 (1-0 pen, 0-1 ‘45, 0-3 frees) Bookings: 2 (Ciarán Russell, Cathal O’Connor) Own kickouts won: 17

NATIONAL HURLING LEAGUE DIVISION 1, ROUND 1: CORK 2-30 CLARE 2-21 AT PÁIRC UÍ RINN

‘Bad to worse’ in that 10-minute spell

Patrick Crotty saw some action in Saturday night’s demoralising league defeat to Cork

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

CLARE manager Brian Lohan was left disappointed with how his side had failed to build on a positive opening against Cork. While Mark Rodgers’ 21st-minute goal put the visitors into a 1-9 to 0-9 lead, Cork would add 1-12 before Clare’s tally increased any further. “You come down here and you switch off for ten minutes before half time and it was what, 1-10 without reply?” Lohan said. “You just can’t afford to do that but, once that was done, it was effectively game over. “Just around the middle of the field and with their half-back line, they took over completely and we weren’t able to get it through. We lost confidence in our puck out then and it just went from bad to worse in that ten minutes. “We had a couple of young lads but I wouldn't be blaming the young lads, they did well, the lads we brought on – we have to have a fairly rigorous examination of what happened.” Clare, missing key men like Tony Kelly and John Conlon, did at least finish well, outscoring Cork by 1-6 to 1-0 from the 65th minute onwards. Prior to that, teenage sub Patrick Crotty gave a good account of himself as he scored twice and Lohan took some small amount of solace

from that showing. “The game was gone at that stage,” he said, “but you still have to have the bravery to stick your hand up and put it over the bar. “We put on a young fella of 18 years of age, he stuck his hand up twice and put it over the bar. Five shots, he scored twice, so that’s positive.” Clare face Wexford this coming weekend, with mixed news on the injury front. “John Conlon togged out today but was only back training Thursday night,” Lohan said. “He’ll be in the frame. David Fitzgerald got some game-time, so it’s positive to have him back as well. But we still have significant injury issues and that’s going to be the case for a while.”

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

pg 37

10-02-22

CDSL teams up with St Francis Credit Union

ST FRANCIS Credit Union is delighted to announce that it has partnered with Clare District Soccer League as its primary sponsor for the next three years. As part of the brand-new sponsorship deal, St Francis Credit Union will be seen as the main supporter Louis Fay of St Francis Credit Union with Jim Madden of CDSL of the Clare District Soccer League & girls. We very much look forward to St Francis Credit Union has embarked on working with the team at St Francis Credit the sponsorship as part of its communi- Union over the coming months and years ty outreach and social engagement in the ahead.” Clare region. Louis Fay CEO in St Francis Credit Union Speaking about the new partnership, Jim also commented “We are delighted with Madden with Clare District Soccer League this partnership here in St Francis Credit said “We are an organisation close to ev- Union. Their ethos of social responsibility eryone’s heart in the Clare area because of and community development is very much the growing support for the competitions, in line with our own core ethos here at St not only in the senior league but also in Francis Credit Union.” the under age grade for both codes in boys

Title for Bunratty/Cratloe BUNRATTY last won a league title in 2009 when Noel Twomey and Stephen Russell were involved in the team management. On Sunday at Lees Road, Bunratty/ Cratloe were crowned 3rd division champions thanks to an 8-0 win over Manus Celtic B. Managing this year’s team are Patrick Twomey and Dean Russell, sons of Noel and Stephen. Earlier this season they won the 3rd division league cup title and attention now switches to the upcoming Clare cup competition in which they will take on their neighbours, Bridge United A in the opening round. Man of the match on Sunday was Darren Lindsay who scored six goals, the second coming from the penalty spot. The other goalscorers were Tom Purtill and Adam Harrington. Bunratty/Cratloe; Andrew Lees; Raj Singh, Tom Purtill, Liam Hayes, Mark McPhillips; Sean Burke, Paudie Fitzgerald, Derek Maxwell (Capt), Dylan Kerr; Adam Harrington, Darren Lindsay; Subs; Karl Fitzmaurice for McPhillips; Barry Long for Singh; Jim Houlihan for Fitzgerald; Richard Germaine for Burke; Conor Casey for Houlihan(inj);

In the only other third division game Fern Celtic travelled to Kilmihil and beat St. Pats by the odd goal in seven. INCLEMENT WEATHER DISRUPTS FIXTURES Inclement weather disrupted the scheduled Clare soccer fixture list greatly with a number of games postponed. Just two games took place in the premier league, one in the first division and two in the third division while all games scheduled in the second division went by the wayside. NEWMARKET CELTIC A 4 MOUNTSHANNON CELTIC 1 In the premier division champions Newmarket Celtic A kept their title hopes on track with a 4-1 win over Mountshannon Celtic at McDonagh Park Daithi O’Connell, Ronan McCormack, Stephen Kelly and Paddy Purcell were the goalscorers for the winners while Mountshannon’s goal, which was the first of the day, came from William Glass Newmarket Celtic; Shane Cusack; Paddy Purcell, Josh Orajuaba, Stephen Kelly, Darren Cullinan; Conor McDade, Dave McCarthy, Cathal Hayes, Alan Kelly, Daithi O’Connell, Ronan McCormack; Subs; James Fahy for Orajuaba; David Lennon for

C. Hayes; Cael Gaffney for Cullinan; Kieran McCoy for O’Connell; Dermot Gannon for McCormack Mountshannon Celtic; Andy O’Dwyer; Sean Browne, Oran Scanlan Michael Barrett, Niall Dear; Martin Cunningham, Guy Vigurs, Ronan Dooley, Paul Burke, Ethan Madden, William Glass; Subs; Ciaran Keenan for Madden; Luke Sugrue for Dooley

LIFFORD 1 SHANNON TOWN A 1 Lifford put a dent in Shannon Town A’s title holes when holding them to a 1-1 draw at Cassidy Park Lifford opened the scoring in the in the first half through Dylan Ryan and they held that advantage until near the end despite being reduced to ten men in the second half when Godsway Kuffour was dismissed on a second yellow card. Town pressed strongly in the second period but despite having the assistance of a strong wind they could not break down the Lifford defence in which goalkeeper Rhys Phillips did well. Shannon Town’s equaliser came from substitute Christopher Dunning just before the full time whistle.

Lifford; Rhys Phillips; Dan Daly, John Maher, Eddie Killeen, Michael Junaid; Paul Martin, Nathan Rezende, Gary McMahon, Godsway Kuffour, Dylan Ryan, Ruairi Norrby; Subs; Jean Ganda for McNaboe; Josh Ryan for Norrby; Hamad Kuku for Ryan Shannon Town A; Darren Whelan, Stephen Carroll, Alex Cole, Aidan Leahy, Brian Monahan, Jack Kelly, T. J. O’Dwyer, Gary O’Connell, Brian O’Connor, Kieran Hackett, Jack Ryan; Subs; Cody Waller for Carroll; Liam Boland for Ryan; Ian Collins for O’Connor; Christopher Dunning for O’Dwyer

In the first division Tulla United conceded home advantage due to an unplayable pitch, travelled to Kilrush and beat Kilrush Rangers by 4 - 2. This win keeps their promotion challenge going.

AVENUE AND ENNIS TOWN IN FAI CUP ACTION Two Clare clubs travel to Dublin this weekend in search of a place in the last 16 of the prestigious FAI junior cup. Avenue United, the only Clare club to reach the final of this competition, going down to Cherry Orchard in 1990, will take on Yellowstone at 12 noon while Ennis Town will face Ballymun at 2p.m. Both Dublin clubs will carry the favourites tags and Avenue and Ennis Town will have to be at their best if they are to be in with a chance of progressing to the last sixteen.

Galvin calls time on Clare 2013 All-Ireland winner and All Star, Colm Galvin has announced his retirement from inter-county hurling. Injury has prompted the Clonlara man to call time on his Clare career. A dynamo at midfield, Colm was an integral part to the 2013 success following on from U21 All-Ireland and Munster titles in 2012, 2013 and

2014. He added a NHL medal to this collection in 2016. He formed a memorable midfield pairing with Tony Kelly from minor, the pair setting the underage ranks alight under Gerry O’Connor and Donal Moloney. In a statement, Colm confirmed that a persistent groin injury led to the announcement. “It’s a scenario

that I never thought or hoped would ever happen but unfortunately following a succession of injuries and repeated setbacks, I’ve had to make the difficult de-

cision to retire from inter-county hurling,” he stated. “A decade on from making my senior championship debut against Dublin in Cusack Park, I’d love to have continued playing for Clare but after ongoing conversations with Brian [Lohan], realistically my body just isn’t able for the workload required at the highest level any longer.”

Woodstock presentation night by SEAMUS HAYES

WOODSTOCK GOLF CLUB: Woodstock golf club will host a presentation night for the club championships, Autumn League, matchplays, Costelloe cup and golfer of the year on this Friday, February 11 in Hotel Woodstock at 8pm sharp. The following prizes will be presented; Modified fourball matchplay - Mike Reen and Mike Kelly (winners) Gerry Griffey and Gareth Pyne (runners up); Shanaway cup fourball matchplay - Kieran Quinn and Pat McMahon (winners) Brian Keogh and Cathal O’Neill (runners up) Singles matchplay - Cian Moloney(winner), Darragh Casey (runner up) Michael Cullinan memorial - Gerry Walsh Club championship winner - Tony Neville Woodstock masters winner - Mike Kelly; Golfer of the year 2021 - Brendan Keogh Autumn League - Winners--Paul and Declan Coote, Fran Feighery and Chaye Kelly; Runners up--Ryan Enright, Pat McMahon, Brendan Quinn and Pat O’Brien; Monthly medal winners - Adrian Kearney (May) Brendan Keogh (June), Barry Scanlan (July), Fiachra McMahon (August). The members of the club’s Costelloe cup winning team will also receive their medals at this function. The five pairings which helped bring the trophy to Woodstock are Kieran Patton and Brendan Arthur; Johnny and Cathal Clune; Shane O’Doherty and Kieran Brennan; Paddy Meehan and Eugene Conroy; Barry Scanlan and Joey Colleran. Last weekend’s club modified fourball was won by Ross Darmody, Brendan Neylon, Jonathan Clohessy and John Brennan with 93 points. The previous week’s club singles was won by Pat O’Brien (12) with 42 points. Pat Keane

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(9) won category 1 (handicaps 0 to 11) with 39 points, Dennis McCarthy (12) was the winner of category 2 (handicaps 12 to 14) with 42 points while Ian Birchall (18) won category 3 (handicaps 15 and upwards) with 38 points. There will be a modified team of four this weekend with two scores to count

ENNIS GOLF CLUB: Last week’s ladies 14 hole singles stableford competition at Ennis was won by Kathleen Frehill (39) with 28 points from Ann Pyne Gallery (29) with 26 points. In third spot with 25 points was Della Burns (19) followed by Sinead Herarty (17) with a similar score. Carmel Cummins (42) was fifth, also with 25 points Phil Butler (28) won the 9 hole competition with 16 points from Mary 0’Halloran (32) with a similar score while Bridie Keane (34) was third with 14 points. Last week’s senior ladies competition was won by Geraldine 0’Mahoney, Alice D’Arcy and Ann 0’Loughlin with 58 points from Carmel Verling, Margaret Flanagan and Margaret McEnery with third place filled by Phil Butler, Liz Kelly and Maureen Maloney. KILRUSH GOLF CLUB: Week 1 of the Spring singles stableford for men at Kilrush resulted in victory for Des Murphy (17) with 28 points. Second place was filled by Pat Mulcahy (13) with 26 points and he was followed by Tom Cleary (14) with 26 points and Sean Lyons (11) who also returned 26 points. SHANNON GOLF CLUB: Last week’s 15 hole singles competition at Shannon was won by Alan Small (10) with 38 points from Mike Carroll (17) with 36 points. Due to the adverse weather last weekend the winter league is being extended by one week. Teams that played can use their score stand or replay.

10-02-22

pg 38

Ennis Track’s greatest day as team claims European cross country gold

by RONAN JUDGE

HE dedication and hard work of Ennis Track AC’s European champions has been hailed after the club enjoyed one of its greatest ever days. Ennis Track claimed the under 20 men’s title at the European club cross country championships in Lisbon, Portugal last weekend. On a day to remember, twin brothers Dean and Dylan Casey led Ennis to the gold medal. Dean finished first, just ahead of Dylan in second, while there were top 20 finishes for teammates Mark Hanrahan and Niall Murphy. Cian O’Boyle and Thomas McGuire were also part of the six strong team that travelled to Portugal. Maureen Casey, Ennis Track PRO, said the win is just reward for the team’s efforts over a difficult few years. “They’ve trained really well and have been so careful with regards to covid and minding themselves. It was a super achievement, absolutely brilliant and all under the

Dean and Dylan Casey help Ennis Track to a European title Photo by Sérgio Martins

guidance of their coach Pat Hogan. I could talk forever about Pat and all the work he’s put in. They’re a fierce, great bunch of lads, very committed and very grounded.

They train hard and they’re always focused on the next race. They just love running. It’s always about the next race with them,” Maureen said.

Mias Lissane Queen the pride of Clarecastle by MICHAEL MAHER

BAD weather saw only one night’s racing in Galway with Saturday night’s card cancelled, however Friday at the College Road venue saw an number of races over the tough 575 yards trip. The opening contest was an A5 graded 575 yards contest in which Millroad Daisy was just about best away in the centre but approaching the opening bend Larchill Pop swept round the outside to take over at the head of affairs. Racing along the back Larchill Pop kicked three lengths clear of Millroad Daisy as Lissane Queen began to creep into contention along the inner. Approaching the home bend, the Miss Mia Torpey of Lissane, Clarecastle-owned Lissane Queen arrived on the inner to take command and the daughter of Kinloch Brae & Brookville Dash had a length and three parts to spare over Millroad Daisy in a time of 31.87. On the long run towards the opening bend in race four for this A4 graded 575 yards contest Banter Blitz showed pace along the inside to lead from Sues Posh, continuing past the halfway point. Between the final two bends the Johnny Burke of Tubber owned Sues Posh moved through on the inner as the leader drifted off the fence and the daughter of Cable Bay & Millbank Posh eased clear to defeat Knockmeale Star by three lengths in 32.14. In race 5 there were three leaders before reaching the opening bend in this N3 graded Novice sprint with Lexi Cleo, Bayview West and Cloneyogan Pat all having a turn at the head but once the Siobhan Garrihy of Lahinch owned Cloneyogan Pat took over at the turn the result was a forgone conclusion. The Declan McDonagh of Liscannor trained son of Pat C Sabbath & Tiermana Rum drew right away to defeat Lexis Cleo

by five & three quarter lengths in 19.43. The Stephen Murray of Sixmilebridge trained Non Stop has proved a great servent to owner Niall O’Riordan and the daughter of Shaneboy Lee and Raficky recorded her 14th success in race 6 in this S5 graded contest by a length and three parts over Gone South in 19.50. In the tenth race Clare natives John Collins & Albert Long-owned Brickhill Daisy returned to winning ways in the A3 graded contest over 575 yards, the daughter of Droopys Sydney & Rathmeehan May recording her ninth career success as she made all to defeat Ferryforth Jess by a length and three parts in 31.88. Last Thursday at Limerick there were 12 races on offer with five of them going to the Banner – getting the show on the road was Joe Collins from Parteen with the Shanakyle Syndicate owned Aarons Sensation, this was a trap to line success for this daughter of Ballymac Vic and Sensation Shiraz who recorded her 11th career win in a time of 29.33 for an A3 contest. In race 4 – Inislosky Jasper was to the fore once again for Mary Crotty from O’Briensbridge, a son of Droopys Roddick and Cailin Pol, Jasper lead all the way to record win number 5 in a time of 29.65 for an A6 contest. The following race belonged to John Boy Jack for Fanore’s Patrick O’Donoghue – trained by O’Callaghan Mills’ Donal Cooney. Jack, a son of Skywalker Puma and Ballistic Nina, recorded a career best of 29.28 which was a fifth career win. Myles Cummins and Breda Casey from Newmarket saw their consistent charge Shug Avery record career win 7 when he landed A4 spoils in a time of 29.27. For the finale, Patrick Cronin of Meelick took the honours with Fergus Dolly, a daughter of Laughil Blake and Ballyelan Comet, crossing the line in 29.22 to land career win 6.

“They have a great team around them: Marie Roche; Ita Hanrahan; Ger Casey and of course Pat Hogan. And this is all under the guidance of Gerry Hayes (club presi-

dent) who got all of this going 30 years ago, Maureen added. Seeing her sons Dean and Dylan guide Ennis Track to European glory made the achievement extra special for Maureen. “It does. I’ve had the highs and the lows with them but they are part of a great team. They’re a very focused bunch. Mark (Hanrahan) was injured just before Christmas and he got back and ready to run in a European final. It just shows the kind of dedication they have”. She continued, “They love what they are doing. It’s their life, their focus. They always knew they were capable of going well but for them to produce those performances was just brilliant. To have four places in the top 20 is just brilliant”. And even if they were so inclined, the team don’t have time to rest on their laurels. It’s back to the cut and thrust of competition at the North Munster schools finals in Clarecastle on Thursday, February 10. After the cross country season ends, the club will then switch attention to track and field.

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Recent Deaths Tommy Nolan 18 Boru Walk, Newtown, Killaloe, Clare Date of Death: Monday 7th February 2022 Mary Madigan (née Murphy) Fern House, Shragh, Kilrush, Clare Date of Death: Sunday 6th February 2022 Robert (Bob) Stackpoole Carraig Lia, Shannon, Clare Date of Death: Sunday 6th February 2022

Margaret (Maggie) Vaughan The Barracks, Kilfenora, Clare Date of Death: Sunday 6th February 2022 Yvonne Haugh (née Conway) Kilballyowen, Cross, Clare Date of Death: Saturday 5th February 2022 Patrick (Pa) Haugh Rooska, Lisdoonvarna, Clare Date of Death: Saturday 5th February 2022

David Casey Derryvinna, Clonlara, Clare Date of Death: Sunday 6th February 2022

Brendan Hogan Oakwood Drive, Ennis, Clare / Tulla, Clare Date of Death: Saturday 5th February 2022

Ita Hayes (née Bailey) Creevagh, Quin, Clare Date of Death: Sunday 6th February 2022

Mary Anne Casey (née Cahir) Shannacool, Darragh, Ballyea, Clare

Date of Death: Saturday 5th February 2022 Michael Lynch ”The Orchard”, Claremount, Clarecastle, Clare / Berrings, Cork Date of Death: Friday 4th February 2022 Evangeline (Eva) Burke (née O’Keeffe) Cooraclare Village, Cooraclare, Clare Date of Death: Friday 4th February 2022 Kathy Culligan (née Keane) Boloughera, Lissycasey, Clare Date of Death: Thursday 3rd February 2022 Peggy Hogan (née O’Grady) Gormley Annagh, Feakle, Clare Date of Death: Thursday

3rd February 2022 John (Johnny) Cunningham Drumconora, Barefield, Ennis, Clare Date of Death: Thursday 3rd February 2022

Veronica Duffy (née Daly) Howth, Dublin / Lahinch, Clare Date of Death: Wednesday 2nd February 2022

Eamonn Wade Ardkyle, Bunratty Lower, Newmarket-on-Fergus, Clare Date of Death: Thursday 3rd February 2022

Patrick (Paddy) Driscoll The Grotto, Cooraclare, Clare / Delvin, Westmeath Date of Death: Tuesday 1st February 2022

Baby Seán Donovan Knockatooreen, Kilkishen, Clare Date of Death: Wednesday 2nd February 2022

Katherine Ryan Killaloe, Clare / Bridgetown, Clare Date of Death: Sunday 30th January 2022

Michael Joe McMahon Glendine North, Miltown Malbay, Clare Date of Death: Wednesday 2nd February 2022

PLANNING NOTICES CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL FANOREMORE, BALLYVAUGHAN, CO CLARE Take notice that Martin McQuaid Junior intends to apply for permission to extend the existing Farmhouse and change its use to provide overnight accommodation, consisting of: 2 No. 1 Bedroomed units; 1 No. 1 Bedroomed unit & 1 No. 3 Bedroomed unit, with common/shared spaces for kitchen and sitting room areas, upgrade the existing sewerage system and all associated site and ancillary works including signage at the above address. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority, during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL MEENROSS, SCARRIFF, CO. CLARE Take notice that Damian O’Grady and Grace Killeen intend to apply to the Planning Authority for permission for development which will consist of the construction of a dwelling house, garage a proprietary waste water treatment system and ancillary site work at the above address. The

planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority Clare County Council, Áras Contae An Chláir, New Road, Ennis Co Clare, during its public opening hours, and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing, on payment of the prescribed fee, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL KNOCKNAGOUG, QUIN, CO. CLARE Outline Planning Permission is sought to construct a dwelling house, domestic garage, shared entrance, effluent treatment system including all ancillary site works and services at the above address. Applicant: David Barry The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL KNOCKNAGOUG, QUIN, CO. CLARE

Outline Planning Permission is sought to construct a dwelling house, domestic garage, shared entrance, effluent treatment system including all ancillary site works and services at the above address. Applicant: Aoife Barry The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL VACANT SITE ADJACENT TO 20 THE HAWTHORNS, LIMERICK ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE Take notice that Michelle Sheehan & Derek Madigan are applying to Clare County Council for planning permission to construct a new dwelling house incorporating a granny flat, access road, new entrance, private garage, connection to public sewer and water facilities along with all associated works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of Clare County Council during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in

relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL RANNAGH WEST, CARRON, CO. CLARE Permission for the renovation and extension of a derelict dwelling house and the construction of a treatment unit and soil polishing filter to service same is being sought by Oliver O’Connor. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority Clare County Council, Áras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee of €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL CLENAGH, NEWMARKET ON FERGUS, CO. CLARE Take notice that Henry Power intends to apply for permission for development, the development consists of the construction of a slatted unit and associated site works at the above address. The planning application

maybe inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL DARRAGH SOUTH, DARRAGH, ENNIS, CO. CLARE Take notice that John Costelloe intends to apply for permission for development, the development consists of the construction of a milking parlour and associated site works at the above address. The planning application maybe inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL GREGANS EAST, BALLYVAUGHAN, CO. CLARE Take notice that Rodger Woods intends to apply for permission for development, the development

consists of the construction of a calving unit with underground slatted effluent tank and associated site works at the above address. The planning application maybe inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL TULLYGARVAN EAST, LAHINCH, CO. CLARE Further Information/Revised Plans Planning Ref: P21/752 Development Description: a dwelling house with a proprietary wastewater treatment system and polishing filter together with ancillary works Location: Tullygarvan East, Lahinch, Co. Clare Take notice that Helen Daly has lodged significant further information in respect of planning application P21/752. This information and planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority of Clare County Council, Planning Department, Áras Contae an Chláir, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in rela-

tion to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, not later than 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority or in the case of a planning application accompanies by an EIS within 5 weeks of receipt of such notices by the planning authority. CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL TUBBER, LISSYCASEY, ENNIS, CO. CLARE Take notice that Andrew Cleary and Emma Duggan are applying to Clare County Council for planning permission to construct a dwelling house, garage, access road linking to an existing private entrance onto the public road, new sewerage treatment system and percolation area along with all other necessary ancillary works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of Clare County Council during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

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SUDOKU 1

6 4

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1/1

Doctor

How to play

Friend

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ANSWERS 8

3 9

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2/7/22, 2:21 PM

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QUIZ 43

THURSDAY, FEB 10 2022

The Clare Echo Quiz

1How old is the Burren? (a) 350 million years (b) 270 million years (c) 310 million years

Castle was built 7Craggaunowen in? (a) The 16th century (b) The 15th century (c) The 17th century

West Clare Railway was shut 2Where was Micheal Cusack born? 8The in? (a) Baur (b) Knocklassa (c) Carren

far do the Cliffs of Mother 3How stretch? (b) 5miles (c) 7miles

(a) 8miles

Poulnabrone Domen is made of?

Farmer Jack McGann found the Aillwee Caves when?

(a) Sandstone (b) Limestone (c) Shale

Rua lived in which famous 9Maire castle? (a) Desert O Dea Castle (b) Lemeneh Castle (c) Glennagh Castle

Around how many tourists 10 visit The Cliffs of Moher each year? (a)1.5 million people (b) 1 million (c) 2.3 million

Quiz by Niamh Kinnane

l How far do the Cliffs of Moher stretch?

(a) He followed his dog. (b) He fell in (b) He heard an animals cries

ANSWERS

6. He followed his dog 7. The 16th century 8. 1961 9. Lemeneh Castle 10. 1.5 million people Can you spot the difference? Spot the 7 differences. The answers will be revealed in next weeks edition.

1. 350 million years 2. Carren 3. 5miles 4. 2019 5. Limestone

Spot the Difference

Last weeks Answers . white logo missing on pants (right) . Pole missing in background (right) . Crest missing on player (front right) . Beanie different colour

. String on hoody missing (front centre) . Bib different colour (back right) . Logo on sleeve missing (back Right)

Ennis RFC’s U16s cagainst Kanturk of Cork