The Clare Echo 10/06/21

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JUNE 10 2021

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€10k raised in three hours to save school playground

BROLLY GOOD TIME

by PÁRAIC McMAHON

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EMARKABLE efforts in East Clare have preserved the future of Scariff ’s playground.

In the space of three hours on Saturday, €10,000 was raised as part of fundraising efforts to save the facility in Riverside Park.

Kasia Kierznikiewicz and her son Leon Ryan led the campaign to raise funds for the playground which had broken swings and a see-saw with rotting timber.

They discovered that €6000 would be required and they surpassed this by bringing in €10,000 in three hours. “It shows how good the community is, everybody got involved. If I didn’t have the people behind me, it wouldn’t have happened. They did it for their kids, their grand-kids, nieces and nephews,” Kasia told The Clare Echo.

l Scenes like this outside Knox’s in Ennis were witnessed across the county on Monday as the hospitality industry welcomed the return of outdoor dining on the bank holiday Monday. See our guide on p25-33

Outdoor Dining Page 25 - 33

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ENTERTAINMENT

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RONAN SCULLY OUTDOOR DINING BUSINESS

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SPORT

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PLANNING

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

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

THURSDAY, JUN 10 2021

EXTRAS SOUGHT AS NEW RTÉ DRAMA FILMS IN SHANNON PÁRAIC MCMAHON

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ILMING of a new RTÉ drama is to begin in Shannon with hundreds of extras sought for the six part series.

Ennis actress Simone Kirby (pictured) stars in the drama alongside Angeline Ball best known for playing Imelda in The Commitments and Peter Coonan noted for his role as Fran in Love/Hate.

Hidden Assets follows a routine raid in Clare where the Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB) expose a link between a wealthy Irish family, a stash of rough diamonds and a series of deadly bombings in Belgium.

By-the-book Belgian Chief Inspector Christian De Jong and unconventional CAB Detective Emer Berry are thrown together in a heart-pounding race to halt a further horrifying terror attack in Antwerp. Producers are on the hunt for hundreds of extras to feature in the series which begins shooting in Shannon over the coming weeks.

Interested persons are advised that they need to be available for the full day and have their own transport with early starts

and late finishes flagged.

Eight weeks of filming of the series has concluded in Belgium with the production now based in Clare. The taut thriller is directed by Emmy-nominated Thaddeus O’Sullivan (Into The Storm, Silent Wit-

ness) and leading Belgian director Kadir Balci (Cold Courage).

To apply to become an extra, visit www. movieextras.ie/notices/@@forms_apply. html?form_id=689.

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Principals refute Minister’s comments PÁRAIC MCMAHON

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LARE principals have refuted comments from the Minister for Education regarding the success of applications for special education support.

A survey of 500 schools by the National Principles Forum last month outlined that 70 percent of principals did not believe they would have sufficient special needs assistant (SNA) support for the 2021/22 school year.

Schools in Clare are battling to split resources with a growing amount of students presenting with primary care needs.

When asked by The Clare Echo if the number of SNAs was planned to be increased to deal with the demand, Minister for Education, Norma Foley (FF) stated, “I want to be very clear about the area of special education, it is a key priority of this Government. For

the first time ever, one-fifth of the entire budget of the Department of Education is expended on special education, €2.5bn and that is as it should be, as I’ve said previously I come from a background in education, I know the importance of the early intervention and the work that can be done on the ground with children on a one to one.

“There is also an opportunity for schools where there is a particular need always to make particular applications and I want to say we have been very successful in that regard in this past year and moving forward our intention is to ensure whatever those needs are for any child, irrespective of their ability or capability that they will be catered for within the education sector,” she added. Minister Foley said, “It is unquestionable my determination to ensure all children with particular challenges will be catered for, now and going forward”.

Principal of Mountshannon NS, Joe O’Riordan believed the appeal system was not functioning. “The Minister and the Department are

very good at soundbites, ‘smoke and mirrors’ as Bertie Ahern said.

It is an economic rather an education decision they are taking, it is going to have a detrimental impact throughout schools”.

Schools are lacking assurance when it comes to the security of SNA posts. “You’re constantly walking a tight rope because if someone else comes in it’s like the loaves and the fishes, you have to share out a diminishing resource to an increasing number which is unfair to the students and the staff,” O’Riordan stated.

It is becoming ever more difficult for schools to be granted SNA support, the Tipperary native flagged. “The bar is constantly being raised on what qualifies for an SNA which to me is a money-saving exercise, kids need the support, there is a huge amount of money spent on other public services but yet we’re scrimping and saving down at the face of it on the kids who are our next generation”.

Scoil Seanáin Naofa in Clonlara has 4.33 SNAs allocated to 16 students in need of their support,

principal Donnchadh Kelleher outlined. “Over the last 24 months we’ve had a 100 per cent increase in the number of pupils with primary care needs and would need access to an SNA, we’ve only seen a 23 per cent increase in our resources. On that front, we don’t feel we would have adequate resources in terms of SNA support”.

He disagreed with the view of Minister Foley that the appeal process for securing SNA support had been successful. “We’ve been through two exceptional reviews looking for additional support, from our first review we got a very small increase, our second review we received no increase and are now in the process of a third review. Along the way we have appealed each decision, our difficulty with that would be the length of time it takes to get an outcome of a review, you could be waiting up to four or five months from our experience, you have the pupils in the school, you are trying to cater for their needs but you don’t have the resources”.

According to the Corofin man,

a failure to add additional SNAs to schools that require them would lead to less inclusive schools and place a greater burden on special education teaching resources.

Relations between schools and the Department of Education has declined during the lockdown, Joe asserted. “There has been a breakdown in the relationship and trust between schools and the Department of Education, it is a relationship that was always tenuous at the best of times but I do think the Department is coming out with soundbites and press releases but are not backing it up with actual support on the ground which leads to a lot of extremely frustrated principles because a random Minister will announce something on the radio which is a very poor way to run an education system”.

Below: Minister for Education, Norma Foley chatting with students from Gaelscoil Mhíchíl Cíosóg on Tuesday morning. Photograph: Gary Collins

ROADS ACT 1993 TEMPORARY ROAD CLOSURE Notice is hereby given in accordance with Section 75 of the Roads Act 1993 of Clare County Council’s intention to close the road detailed hereunder for the period stated to facilitate connection of a waste water connection at Ballyliddan West, Sixmilebridge, Co. Clare.

Road to be closed R462 at Ballyliddan West Sixmilebridge Date and time of closure June 25th, 2021 and June 26th, 2021, a 24 hour closure will be in place with local access to adjacent properties.

Alternative routes/diversions Traffic will be diverted via the N18 and R471, a diversion map will be available on Clare County Council’s website at www.clarecoco.ie.

Objections / representations may be made in writing before 4.00 pm on Tuesday 15th June 2021 to: Administrative Officer, Roads & Transportation Department, Áras Contae an Chláir, Clare County Council, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare.

Murphy leaves Clare FM role

by PÁRAIC McMAHON

BALLYNACALLY native Susan Murphy has left her role as General Manager of Clare FM and Tipp FM. After 27 years with the station, Susan has called time on her involvement with Clare FM. In 2009, she was appointed General Manager having previously been sales and marketing manager for eight year and was then the head of operations.

Staff were notified early last week. The Clare woman has departed to pursue other interests.

She previously served on the board of IRS, the marketing and media sales body in Dublin. Su-

san was responsible with overseeing Clare FM’s move to its current state of the art studios on Francis St from its previous base on the same street.

Alongside ex CEO, Liam O’Shea, she is credited with guiding Clare FM to its highest listenership and numerous awards.

Susan’s departure is the latest exit from Clare FM following O’Shea (CEO) in October and last month’s double exit of Morning Focus presenter Gavin Grace and Key Account Manager Denise Quinn.

Right: former Clare FM general manager Susan Murphy

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Woodstock golfer Áine Donegan’s Scot a chance

It’s a lá spesialta for Ennis gaelscoil

by SEAMUS HAYES WOODSTOCK golfer Aine Donegan has advanced to the last 16 in the women’s amateur championship at Kilmarnock Barassie.

A 4 and 3 victory over the leading qualifier on Wednesday has set up a clash with Curtis cup player Shannon Williams on this Thursday morning.

Aine’s success comes just a day after her clubmate and friend Aideen Walsh captured the Ulster women’s strokeplay title at Royal County Down.

Aine is one of four Clare players who will be furthering their golf careers in the US this year. She is going on scholarship to Indiana University in August.

l EXPANSION: Donal Ó hÁiniféin, principal of the Gaelscoil Mhíchíl Cíosog in Ennis, at the announcement that a new general purpose halla and two early intervention units will be provided for the school

Photo by Gary Collins

PÁRAIC MCMAHON paraic@clareecho.ie

T 35 bikes stolen

by CIAN O’BRIEN Clare Gardaí are clamping down on bike thefts countywide and have issued essential advice to the public on recording serial numbers in an effort to recover stolen vehicles.

Since January 2020 up to April 23, 2021 a total of 6,845 bicycles were stolen across the country, with An Garda Síochána recovering 2,139 bicycles. Of these total national bicycles stolen, 78 per cent (5,362) had no serial number recorded.

Local figures reveal that last year, a total of 35 bikes were stolen in Clare, with 14 recorded recoveries. This year, from available data up to April 23, 2021, a total of 4 bikes have been stolen in Clare, with one of these recovered so far.

An Garda Síochána have issued crime prevention advice on protecting bikes from theft, stating that owners should spend 10 to 20 per cent of the value of the bike on a lock, keep the lock off the ground and tie it to an immovable object.

Crime Prevention Officer in the Galway Garda Division Sgt Michael Walsh said, “More people are cycling since the start of the pandemic and this is to be welcomed.

Schemes like cycle to work offer great opportunities to those taking up cycling but it does mean people are investing in more expensive bikes. Take a photo of your bike.

Note the serial number, which is located on the underside of your bike close to the pedals,” he advised.

UESDAY was hailed as a “lá spesialta” in the history of Gaelscoil Mhíchíl Cíosog as the Minister for Education announced a new general purpose halla and two early intervention units for the school.

Fifth class students sang a rendition of ‘Samhradh Samhradh’ by The Gloaming while pupils from second class completed a hurling session to welcome Minister for Education, Norma Foley (FF) to the county town on Tuesday morning.

Principal of the Gaelscoil, Donal Ó hÁiniféin hailed the occasion as a “lá spesialta” in the history of the school and believed the commitment from the Department of Education would futureproof its place in the county. He also quipped that Minister

Foley was welcome to return when the work had concluded, by which stage she could have elevated to the role of Taoiseach or Tanáiste.

Speaking in Ennis, Minister Foley outlined, “We’re announcing a general purpose room halla and two additional SEN early intervention rooms and the conditionality that comes with that such as play rooms, mats in addition to the seven classrooms which have also been provided for, it’s a very positive day for the school and certainly an endorsement of the excellent work that goes on in the school on an ongoing basis. It is a good news story”. Ó hÁiniféin welcomed the announcement which was on top of the school getting the green light for a seven classroom extension with two special education rooms. “This intervention by the Minister in announcing the halla and the double early intervention ASD unit is really positive”. He was hopeful work

would commence for the school year of 2022/23 and noted the facilities would see Gaelscoil Mhíchíl Cíosog become the first mainstream primary school in Ennis to have early intervention units.

During her visit to Co Clare, Minister Foley also visited Clonmoney NS in Newmarket-on-Fergus. The growing school which attracts pupils from Newmarket, Sixmilebridge, Shannon and Cratloe projected that their current enrolment numbers of 186 will pass 200 by September of next year.

Clonmoney NS principal David McCormack told Minister Foley and Deputy Cathal Crowe (FF) that the school requires two further mainstream classrooms, a general purpose hall, all weather playing facilities, a staff room plus a playground and safe playing area.

Extensive fundraising has been carried out by the school to support the construction of a GP hall for the pupils, planning

permission for which was granted by Clare County Council in 2018 along with the addition of two mainstream classrooms and SET rooms which also included an ASD class with a sensory room.

McCormack highlighted that two of the mainstream classrooms have an area which is half the current recommended size by the Department and are too small for in excess of 26 pupils. This is particularly challenging due to public health guidelines and the requirement to maintain social distancing between pupils due to Covid-19, the Newmarket-on-Fergus native highlighted.

Both Deputy Cathal Crowe (FF) and Senator Timmy Dooley (FF) were present alongside the Minister for her visit to Ennis and Newmarket-on-Fergus.

“We had some very good news for the Gaelscoil and, fingers crossed, something can also be done for Clonmoney,” Crowe stated.

Minister defends teacher pay plan

by PÁRAIC MCMAHON MINISTER for Education, Norma Foley (FF) has insisted “substantial progress” has been made to tackle the two tier pay system that exists for thousands of teachers in Ireland and hundreds in Co Clare.

Pay of new entrants to the public service was reduced by ten percent in the 2011 Budget, this has applied to all new teachers appointed on or after January 1st 2011.

On average, post-2010 entrants to the teaching profession earn €4,000 less annually than a 2010 entrant with the same qualifications and experience. Over a lifetime, it will amount to anything up to €100,000.

“There is a body of work that has been done in that regard, we continue to make progress, substantial progress has been made as of late, we continue in that direction,” Minister Foley stated of efforts to tackle the two-tier pay system.

No commitment was given by the Minister that compensation would form part of that progress. “There is an absolute recognition that all those who work and serve in the education sector irrespective of what portfolio they hold are invaluable contributors to the success of the education sector”.

When questioned by The Clare Echo to ascertain where the issue ranked in her list of priorities, the Kerry woman replied, “We

have made progress already in this past year and will continue to make progress going forward”.

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‘US Military can’t save Shannon’ PÁRAIC MCMAHON

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US MILITARY cannot be used to assist a struggling Shannon Airport, peace and human rights group Shannonwatch have stated.

Monthly peace vigils held by Shannonwatch at the entrance to Shannon Airport are to resume this Sunday (June 13th). The vigil is calling for an end to the US military use of Shannon Airport, and will be conducted in line with COVID-19 regulations.

Shannonwatch have said a development strategy is required for Shannon Airport in light of Aer Lingus’ to shut its cabin crew base at the international airport.

The group believe the Irish Government should avoid using the US military to help the Airport remain viable.

“US troop carriers, US Air Force planes and other military and diplomatic

flights continue to pass through Shannon with worrying regularity” said a Shannonwatch spokesperson. “Despite Covid-19 travel restrictions, these flights have continued uninterrupted throughout the pandemic. Not only is this a breach of Irish neutrality, it has also put the health of workers at the airport at risk.

Nine US military related flights were recorded by Shannonwatch at Shannon Airport from Thursday May 27th to Sunday May 29th. “At a time when Foreign Minister Simon Coveney was quite rightly critical of Israel for failing to protect civilians in Gaza during two weeks of bombing, he is allowing their staunchest ally, the US, to take troops and military planes through Shannon without any oversight or inspection,” the spokesperson added.

Approval sought for Doolin pier

by PÁRAIC MCMAHON PLANS for the development of Doolin Pier are to be put before An Bord Pleanála by the end of this year.

A visitor services building is to be constructed at Doolin Pier as part of the plans which also focuses on enhancements of the public realms and improvements to transporting between the pier and the village.

Additional lands are required for the proposal and therefore approval must be obtained from An Bord Pleanála to acquire them compulsorily.

Seán Lenihan of Clare County Council’s project management office acknowledged that the project “got complicated as it was tied in with the visitor strategy”. He added, “If we tried to do everything at the one time we would get nothing done”.

Works has been completed on the layout of the building and car park but Lenihan flagged that the wastewater treatment for the building must be looked at. He detailed that it is intended to submit the project before An Bord Pleanála in October.

Photo by John Burns

Calls for HGV speed limit near quarry

by PÁRAIC MCMAHON

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TEMPORARY speed limit has been suggested in Ardnacrusha by county councillors who have highlighted their frustration with the speed used by truck drivers in South Clare.

Cllr John Crowe (FG) proposed that a temporary speed limit of 50km/h for rigid trucks and 40km/h for articulated trucks be introduced on the L3056 leading from Bobby O’Connell & Son’s Quarry.

He explained, “This is required due to the excessive speed these vehicles travel at on this road and a concern for the safety of all road users. The provision of a temporary speed limit on Heavy Goods Vehicles will dramatically improve road safety on this busy road”.

In response, senior executive engineer Tom Mellett detailed that the location would be placed “on file” for consideration at the next national speed limit review for Clare. “In the interim, an examination of the location will be carried out to assess if specific safety measures are warranted and this assessment will in-

clude a review of accident data”.

Following the examination, an application for Department of Transport funding as part of a low-cost safety scheme will be made if certain criteria are met, he added.

“This particular quarry is a very busy quarry and the amount of trucks going and coming from it daily is quite high,” Cllr Crowe stated. Speaking at a recent meeting of the Shannon Municipal District, he flagged that the road was narrow with “a lot” of dwellings situated on it.

Residents are finding it difficult to get onto the road, Cllr Crowe continued as he said that truck drivers need to slow down.

Support for the temporary speed limit came from Cllr Pat O’Gorman (FF) who indicated that the road number showed “it is very narrow”. He flagged that “an awful lot of slow movements” occur on the route and added that there are plenty of children and elderly people “coming and going”.

A belief on why high speeds were evident from the truck drivers was provided

by Cllr PJ Ryan (IND). “Some ‘hackers’ are paid per load, they are going to do as many as they can per day, to do that they are upping their speed which is creating problems in the area”. He suggested the local authority speak with the owners of the quarry.

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‘It’s nice to meet everyone again’ PÁRAIC MCMAHON

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paraic@clareecho.ie

N EVENING of music, song and conversation was organised for dozens of East Clare residents over the June Bank Holiday weekend to mark what for many was their first social event in over fifteen months.

Derg Isle Adventure Centre were the brains behind the ‘Crooners and Cocooners’ event that offered an open invitation to some of East Clare’s older residents to enjoy an evening of entertainment outdoors now that they have been fully vaccinated.

Hosted at the Derg Isle facilities, the majority of the attendees were at the amenity for the first time.

Brian Lohan’s Clare senior hurlers and the Scariff senior hurling panel were among the recent panels to partake in some team bonding at the popular East Clare spot.

Music was provided by Seamus Bugler, Faye Moloney and Maeve McColl.

Scariff ’s Loretta Brody was among those to attend the event.

“It is lovely to get out, we were inspired by the beautiful music and dancing. It was lovely to even get

l OUT AND ABOUT: Nora Hassett, Val Nagle and Mrs Giblin enjoy the ‘Crooners and Cocooners’ event at Derg Isle Adventure Centre in East Clare on the June Bank Holiday weekend the invitation to come, even if we never came, we’re blessed with the evening,” she reflected.

“I loved it, I did, I loved every bit of it, it is nice to meet everyone again and get out of the house,”

Ann Culloo said of the occasion.

Nora Hassett of Bodyke pinpointed her favourite aspect as seeing and meeting “so many people that I didn’t meet or see in ages”.

Phil Fenwick quipped, “It was a

great idea. It’s great to be out, it’s like being released from prison or something like that, it was a great idea”.

General Manager of Derg Isle, Alphie Rodgers hailed the event as

a success. “We’re delighted, it was a brilliant evening to see the talent from the youngest to the oldest, it was a lovely evening”.

Alphie noted the importance of the occasion. “They’ve had a difficult couple of months no more than any of us but particularly we’ve been lucky enough to get out and go to an odd match but for many of them mass has been cancelled, set dancing has been cancelled, the cards and bingo has been cancelled, the social scene has been wiped out really over the last couple of months”.

Several interviews from Derg Isle are to be broadcast on Scariff Bay Community Radio with Marie McNamara and Trish Nugent on hand to catch up with some of the attendees for the Saturday Chronicle Show.

PRO of Scariff Bay, Eoin O’Hagan outlined that the occasion was “a beautiful evening”. He added, “It was the first social occasion that many of the attendees had been at in over 15 months. A simple affair it was a pleasure to see all the happy smiling faces as they listened to music or sang a party piece.

O’Hagan heaped praise on Derg Isle for the initiative “to bring our elderly neighbours out for a well deserved evenings entertainment”.

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COVID-19: Supporting Recovery

The Path Ahead We have now entered a new stage of our recovery. The National Vaccination Programme is having a significant and positive impact.

As society reopens over the coming months, a far-reaching Economic Recovery Plan is extending supports and investing to help people get back to work.

The Economic Recovery Plan

Helping People Back to Work Reaching 2.5 million people in work by 2024.

Building Sustainable Businesses Helping business to recover and embrace new opportunities.

EXTENSION OF SUPPORTS Employee Wage Subsidy Scheme (EWSS) and Pandemic Unemployment Payment (PUP) extended for the rest of 2021 with phased adjustments.

Building on the lessons of the pandemic.

Expanded Jobs Plus Scheme to 8,000 places.

Workplace Experience Programme, 10,000 participants by 2022.

EXTENSION & ENHANCEMENT of the COVID Restrictions Support Scheme (CRSS).

SUPPORT AND PLANNING for sectors that have been particularly impacted by the pandemic.

Extension of the Commercial Rates Waiver and Debt Warehousing Schemes.

Lower Tourism VAT rate of 9% extended to 1st September 2022.

New Business Resumption Support Scheme.

SME and Entrepreneurship Growth Plan — 2,000 additional SMEs to begin exporting by end 2025.

Recovery for All

PRACTICAL SUPPORTS such as individual advice, CV preparation and work placements.

Live Performance Support Scheme (LPSS).

Music and Entertainment Business Assistance Scheme.

New events sector support scheme.

IDA 2021-2024 Strategy — aims to win 800 total investments to support creation of 50,000 jobs.

Fáilte Ireland initiatives including Business Continuity Scheme.

SUPPORTING A DIGITAL AND GREEN ECONOMY

BALANCED REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT

€915 million of funding under the European Recovery and Resilience Facility.

Updated National Development Plan.

Retrofit Loan Scheme.

Vaccinations

Vaccinations are a key part of our Recovery. The progress of the vaccination programme throughout the summer will allow us to continue reopening the economy.

For full details, please go to gov.ie/recovery

UPSKILLING AND RESKILLING Accelerated availability of 50,000 extra education and training places.

Investment of €114m in education and training through Solas Recovery Skills Programme.

10,000 Additional Apprenticeships per annum by 2025.

BUILDING RESILIENT, PRODUCTIVE AND INNOVATIVE BUSINESSES for the future.

Digital Transformation of Enterprise Fund.

National Artificial Intelligence Strategy.

Technological University Fund.

National Grand Challenges Programme.

Roadmap for Aviation Recovery.

Brexit Adjustment Reserve (over €1bn).

Remote Working Strategy.

Safe Reopening

FAIR RECOVERY Social Dialogue.

Statutory Sick Pay. Wellbeing Framework.

Just Transition.

We can see society and the economy recovering slowly and steadily. To maintain our momentum, we need to continue to follow the public health guidelines in the coming weeks.

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THURSDAY, JUN 10 2021

West Clare ‘suffering the most’ PÁRAIC MCMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

WEST Clare is “suffering more than any other area” when it comes to ‘visual impact’ influencing planning applications for dwelling houses, a county councillor has claimed.

A renewed attempt was made by Cllr PJ Kelly (FF) to obtain information “in a comprehensible manner” regarding “all considerations and sequential reference in the process of evaluation of the visual impact of dwellings on different landscapes”.

Director of Economic Development with Clare County Council, Liam Conneally in response to Cllr Kelly’s motion emphasised that the planning application procedure “is the most open and transparent of government processes”.

Landscape characteristics for different areas are set out in Chapter 13 of the County Development Plan, he added. They include settled landscapes, working landscapes and heritage landscapes.

Conneally stated, “In assessing a planning application therefore the location of a site within the various landscape types is a key consider-

ation”.

He felt it was “not practical or possible to give full details of all considerations in the assessment of visual impact for all development application sites due to the variance in types and locations of developments throughout the county”.

Speaking at a recent meeting of the local authority, Cllr Kelly said he was “extremely disappointed” with the response. He urged the Council to protect the county from “costly High Court embarrassment which I’m afraid is around the corner if we don’t tidy up our act”. The Lissycasey representative commented that it was “totally unacceptable if we’re not given information”. He was frustrated once again not to receive a definition on what is viewed as ‘visual impact’ and concluded, “the public have a right to know, it is incumbent on us to ensure the system is fair and understood and that we comply with rules of transparency”.

More detail is needed for planners, architects, councillors and the public “not to mention the individual making the application,” Cllr Joe Killeen (FF) commented.

Chief Executive of the County Council, Pat Dowling noted Cllr Kelly’s disappointment with the reply which he labelled as “con-

sistent with your disappointment on the subject during my time in Council”. He believed there was an element of subjectivity connected to the matter.

“West Clare is suffering more than any other area,” Kelly replied.

He said senior Council officials had to protect the local authority from a successful High Court challenge. “I intend to stay at it until the people of West and North Clare get what they’re entitled to. I won’t be pushed about by this fancy word or another thing. I have

a duty to the people who elected me,” he continued.

Balance must be maintained in the discussion, Conneally told the meeting. He expressed his confidence that legislation was complied with from their perspective.

“Unless I was to go out and visit every site in the county, I couldn’t give you the detail on the visual implications issue, it is just simply impossible”.

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Six arrests made over catalytic converter thefts A FILE is to be prepared for the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions following the arrests of six persons in Clare regarding the thefts of catalytic converters.

Gardaí arrested six persons on June 1st in Ennis and West Clare, the organised crime group are believed to be involved in the theft of catalytic converters and the sale of the precious metals contained within.

The six people, five men and one woman, were detained and questioned under Section 50 of the Criminal Justice Act, 2007 at Ennis, Shannon and Kilrush Garda Stations but later released without charge.

A spokesperson for An Garda Síochána has confirmed that a file is to be prepared for the Office of the DPP on the matter.

Above: Cllr PJ Kelly (FF)

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12 NEWS

Vaccines available at Ennis pharmacy

THURSDAY, JUN 10 2021

Doonbeg cow could be oldest in Ireland PÁRAIC MCMAHON

A

paraic@clareecho.ie

AN ENNIS pharmacy is to commence operating as a vaccination centre from Tuesday.

Holly’s Haven Pharmacy in Ennis and Galway will begin administering the one shot Jansen (J&J) vaccine from June 15th with individuals aged in the fifty plus bracket to be accommodated first.

Pre-registration is required and can be completed by contacting the pharmacy which is located on Abbey Street in Ennis.

“We are delighted to play our part within Co. Clare during the pandemic as we work towards getting the country fully open in the coming period,” Martina O’Reilly, Supervising Pharmacist of Haven Pharmacy Hollys told The Clare Echo.

24 YEAR OLD Doonbeg cow is believed to be among the oldest in Ireland.

Farmer Tony Henchy told The Clare Echo that his black white head Angus Cross named Molly is one of the oldest cows in Ireland according to registrations.

Milked by hand for domestic use in her earlier years, Molly has had seventeen calves, both her daughter and grand-daughter live on Henchy’s farm in Derrycarne in Doonbeg.

“She is right up there with the oldest or so they are telling me

l A TRUE LADY: Molly, who was born on the Henchy farm, has had 17 calves and and mother hailed from the Killimer area

at the registration, she was my Dad’s initially, he passed away and I decided to hold onto her so she could end her days here with me,” Tony explained.

He has particular fondness for Molly as she serves as a link to the time of his parents, Martin and Josephine.

Molly was in fact born on the Henchy farm, her mother hailed from the Killimer area so her longevity is credited with being from West Clare stock.

Her health today is “reasonable enough” Tony said. “She has a couple of setbacks alright but overall it is not too bad, at this stage you just wouldn’t know, the appetite isn’t great with her”. Vets in the county have remarked at their astonishment with Molly’s age.

Influx of unwanted Clare principals refute pets sparks calls Minister's comments on for dog fosterers special education support CIAN O’BROIN

C

cian@clareecho.ie

LARE Animal Welfare are calling on dog fosterers to help manage an influx of sickly and unwanted pets being surrendered to the charity service post COVID-19.

Dog Fosterer Co-Ordinator Ciara Copeland stressed that the last few months have seen the same intense workload being kept up by CAW, despite a reduced volunteer workforce. In spite of this, there has still been “the same number of fosters, placements and adoptions”, with the main focus of the service revolving around rehoming. “The welfare situation never goes away, despite what is going on in the world,” she told The Clare Echo.

The role of fosterers is to assess the dogs for the service, addressing their basic needs by analysing their levels of training, how they are with children and to see if they can live with other animals. This is the secondary focus within the fostering system.

The primary focus, she outlined, is “to assist the animal in getting over any trauma that they may be facing.”

This often takes the form of neglect, abuse, abandonment or simply when the family can no longer keep the

dog within the home. One of the most common reasons is to provide post-doctoral care for animals with injuries before they move onto a more permanent home.

An important point, she added, is that “we don’t encourage our fosterers to adopt.” There currently is no shortage of requests for adoptions.

CAW would like to have a list of 100 fosterers, the people they deem as “the real heroes that never let us down.” These people are often the safe haven for most dogs, and it can be difficult for them to send their animals on their way after falling in love with them. After an assessment is completed by the fosterers, the dogs are matched with suitable adopters.

The process of becoming a fosterer involves a home-check, in order to know that the person is prepared for what’s involved. Ciara hopes that a range of people can be accrued.

There are no strict requirements and fostering is open to those who do not own their own homes or to people living in an apartment. “We are happy to take anybody, and full support will be provided for the fosterer. There will always be someone at the end of the phone and all the dogs veterinary needs and costs will be taken care of too,” she added.

To sign up for the fostering programme contact CAW on +353 85 1911369.

by PÁRAIC MCMAHON CLARE principals have refuted comments from the Minister for Education regarding the success of applications for special education support.

A survey of 500 schools by the National Principles Forum last month outlined that 70 percent of principals did not believe they would have sufficient special needs assistant (SNA) support for the 2021/22 school year.

Schools in Clare are battling to split resources with a growing amount of students presenting with primary care needs.

When asked by The Clare Echo if the amount of SNAs was planned to be increased to deal with the demand, Minister for Education, Norma Foley (FF) stated, “I want to be very clear about the area of special education, it is key priority of this Government.

For the first time ever, one fifth of the entire budget of the Department of Education is expended on special education, €2.5bn and that is as it should be, as I’ve said previously I come from a background in education, I know the importance of the early intervention and the work that can be done on the ground with children on a one to one.

“There is also an opportunity for schools where there is a particular need always to make particular applications and I want to say we have been very success-

ful in that regard in this past year and moving forward our intention is to ensure whatever those needs are for any child, irrespective of their ability or capability that they will be catered for within the education sector,” she added. Minister Foley said “It is unquestionable my determination to ensure all children with particular challenges will be catered for, now and going forward”.

Principal of Mountshannon NS, Joe O’Riordan believed the appeal system was not functioning. “The Minister and the Department are very good at soundbytes, ‘smoke and mirrors’ as Bertie Ahern said. It is an economic rather an education decision they are taking, it is going to have a detrimental impact throughout schools”.

Schools are lacking assurance when it comes to the security of SNA posts. “You’re constantly walking a tight rope because if someone else comes in it’s like the loaves and the fishes, you have to share out a diminishing resource to an increasing number which is unfair to the students and the staff,” O’Riordan stated.

It is becoming ever more difficult for schools to be granted SNA support, the Tipperary native flagged. “The bar is constantly being raised on what qualifies for an SNA which to me is a money saving exercise, kids need the support, there is a huge amount of money spent on other public services but yet we’re scrimping

and saving down at the face of it on the kids who are our next generation”.

Scoil Seanáin Naofa in Clonlara has 4.33 SNAs allocated to 16 students in need of their support, principal Donnchadh Kelleher outlined. “Over the last 24 months we’ve had a 100 percent increase in the number of pupils with primary care needs and would need access to an SNA, we’ve only seen a 23 percent increase in our resources.

On that front, we don’t feel we would have adequate resources in terms of SNA support”.

He disagreed with the view of Minister Foley that the appeal process for securing SNA support had been successful. “We’ve been through two exceptional reviews looking for additional support, from our first review we got a very small increase, our second review we received no increase and are now in the process of a third review. Along the way we have appealed each decision, our difficulty with that would be the length of time it takes to get an outcome of a review, you could be waiting up to four or five months from our experience, you have the pupils in the school, you are trying to cater for their needs but you don’t have the resources”.

Relations between schools and the Dept of Education has declined during lockdown, Joe added.

THURSDAY, JUNE 10 2021

NEWS 13

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14 NEWS

THURSDAY, JUN 10 2021

Wheelchairs being forced onto road

by PÁRAIC MCMAHON ‘BAD DETERIORATION” of footpaths at a unique housing estate in Newmarket-on-Fergus are forcing wheelchair-bound residents onto the road.

A request for Clare County Council to repair footpaths throughout the Woodland Heights estate in Newmarket-on-Fergus was tabled before the Shannon Municipal District by Cllr Pat McMahon (FF) and supported by Cllr Gerry Flynn (IND).

As work on the preparation of the Shannon MD’s annual footpath maintenance contract continues, senior executive engineer Tom Mellett confirmed that “this estate will be included for assessment”. He added, “If large scale works are required, the Municipal District Office will prepare an application under an appropriate grant scheme for 2022”.

Cllr McMahon described Woodland Heights as “a unique estate” and added, “every single house in the estate was built individually”. “A lot of people are retired with some having extreme medical issues, there is a very steep hill”. According to the Cathaoirleach of the Shannon MD, it was “not fair for people with medical issues” that the condition of the footpaths has shoved them onto the road of the only entrance and exit point to the estate.

Lifeguard services commence at beaches PÁRAIC MCMAHON

E

paraic@clareecho.ie

XTRA seasonal staff have commenced work at coastal locations across the county this weekend.

Lifeguard service began at Lahinch, Spanish Point, Fanore and Kilkee from Saturday (June 5th) and are to remain in place until Tuesday, August 31st. The service will also operate on September 4th and 5th along with the following weekend (September 11th/12th).

Similarly, lifeguard cover started at White Strand Miltown Malbay, White Strand Doonbeg, Cappa, Mountshannon, Killaloe (Ballycuggeran) and Ballyalla from Saturday. This will continue throughout weekends in June, with a full-time service scheduled to start on Monday, 28th June, at these beaches and also

l IN SAFE HANDS: Lifeguards on duty at Lahinch last weekend at Seafield and Bishops Quarter. Lifeguards are on duty from 11:00am to 7:00pm on days of operation of the lifeguard service.

Beach ambassadors, traffic management staff, litter and toilet operatives are among the extra seasonal staff that were visible at coastal locations in Clare from

this weekend. Plans are also in place to have toilets open at all beaches across the summer with extended capacity.

Members of the public have been requested to correctly dispose of their waste when visiting beaches and other amenities by using the available bins or bringing their waste home.

A spokesperson for Clare County Council told The Clare Echo, “Clare is a holiday county with wonderful destinations and amenities, and we look forward to a safe and enjoyable summer season. Clare County Council continues to step up responses in a range of areas for the summer months. But even with additional measures in place, personal responsibility is a key requirement.

It is essential that we all as individuals make the right choices and do the right things to protect the progress we have made to secure a recovery in society and the economy”.

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NEWS 15

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16 NEWS

THURSDAY, JUN 10 2021

Shannon Town representatives split on best way forward for Radharc na Coille PÁRAIC MCMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

S

HANNON Town’s two county councillors are not in agreement when it comes to the potential of traffic calming measures at the Radharc na Coille housing estate.

An appeal for measures of some form was issued by Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) having become aware that “residents are complaining”. Cllr Gerry Flynn (IND) meanwhile was of the view that a mistake would be made “by rushing in”.

In a proposal before the Shan-

non Municipal District, Cllr McGettigan asked that traffic calming measures be in place on foot of the complaints. “Traffic in and out of the area is too fast for a residential area, particularly with children playing in the estate,” she stated.

A speed survey is to be conducted, senior executive engineer Tom Mellett outlined. This information will determine “the nature of the problem” and will assist in flagging potential solutions, he explained.

“This housing estate contacts three lengthy straights of roadway with cul-de-sacs leading from them or with housing accessing directly onto them and so may require a number of different traffic calming solutions,” Mellett advised.

Speaking at a recent meeting of the Shannon MD, Cllr McGettigan emphasised that the area was “hugely populated” with children.

“There is a big green area that the children play along, as children do they run across the road,” she cautioned.

Taking time to find the right solution is key, Cllr Flynn maintained. “Let’s not make a mistake by rushing and doing something that would not suit the area. There has to be consultation”. Previous surveys were completed when the estate was taken in by the County Council, he informed the meeting.

Right: Radharc na Coille, Shannon.

Photograph: Joe Buckley

Approach road to Stonehall NS fuels safety concerns

by PÁRAIC McMAHON

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A UNITED approach was evident from councillors in the Shannon local electoral area as they put forward the case for the introduction of enhanced traffic calming measures on the Stonehall Rd approaching Stonehall National School.

Cathaoirleach of the Shannon Municipal District, Cllr Pat McMahon (FF) called on Clare County Council to implement safety measures on the road “in the interest of public safety for residents in the locality including pupils and staff attending Stonehall National School”.

Reinstatement of “depleted rumble strips” on each approach to the school has been agreed. Senior executive engineer, Tom Mellett outlined that he has met with the primary school principal to discuss some of the concerns.

When pre-COVID levels of traffic are visible on roads, a survey will be conducted, Mellet confirmed, “this information will be used to assist in identifying traffic management solutions”. Shannon MD staff will also work with the school “to advance applications for traffic management works in the vicinity of the school”.

Speaking at a meeting of the Shannon MD, Cllr McMahon identified the “concealed entrance” to the school as the “main problem”. He noted that the route was a rat run for younger drivers, “there are very few turns on the road so it’s quite conducive for extra speed”. He acknowledged that the school has a parking sign but noted that the primary congestion points were the drop-off

and collection times.

Cllr PJ Ryan (IND) noted that it wasn’t the first time his colleagues raised the matter.

“Industry” traffic are using the route as a runway, he believed. “There has to be serious consideration given to traffic measures to prevent a serious accident,” Ryan stated as he seconded the proposal.

Surveys may not ascertain that the route is used as a rat run, Cllr Gerry Flynn (IND) cautioned. “It is used to access Shannon Airport and you have Aerospace on the other road, the survey may not catch that. A lot of the people that I have been informed about, they are using the run as a rat run”.

Cllr John Crowe (FG) agreed that it was used as a rat run, “there are an awful lot of houses on both sides of the road,” he added.

Further support was voiced by Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) who observed, “the amount of times we’ve had safety around schools being discussed since I became a councillor is astonishing”.

This view was reinforced by Cllr Pat O’Gorman (FF) as he referenced discussions in Cratloe, Clonmoney and Stonehall, “we’re talking about a lot of primary schools at our meetings”. He suggested, “if all speed limits were brought to 50km/h there would be a standard for all schools and there would be no more coming in looking for this and that”.

Mellett told the meeting that safety concerns around schools were “frequently coming up”. He cautioned that speed limits were a “separate issue” and that each location was “unique”. He committed to speaking with colleagues in the Council’s transportation department on the matter.

NEWS 17

THURSDAY, JUN 10 2021

in association with

‘Unified process’ for second level applications PÁRAIC MCMAHON paraic@clareecho.ie

A “UNIFIED process” is expected to be implemented from the autumn which will eliminate the shortage for second level places witnessed in Ennis over recent years.

In February of this year, St Flannan’s College announced they would increase their intake of first year pupils by 24 for this September due to “unprecedented demand”.

Primary school principals in Ennis and surrounding areas wrote to the Department of Education in May 2019 highlighting their concern that 40 pupils were without a secondary school placement.

The issue was solved when Ennis Community College provided 42 additional places for the students.

Gaelscoil Mhíchíl Cíosóg principal, Donal Ó hÁiniféin this week outlined that “a new unified process” is planned to be implement-

ed from the autumn which he welcomed as “fantastic progress”.

“Le cunamh Dé we’ll get that over the line in the coming months and I want to congratulate the patrons of the schools for being so active and the principals who are extremely busy at this time of year for their time and commitment to this process so that children of Ennis will benefit from a fairer, more unified and transparent process in the future and children will not be left without places while their friends have multiple places,” he stated. Ó hÁiniféin added, “For children in sixth class it gives them the total wrong impression. I’m certain secondary schools will benefit from the positivity that will come from this, children’s first taste of second level school will be a positive letter from their school stating that they have a place for the following September”.

Right: Ennis Community College provided 42 additional places to deal with the shortage in 2019

Grey range rover the suspect vehicle in Ennis hit and run PUBLIC assistance has been sought by An Garda Síochána into an investigation into an Ennis hit and run in May. Gardaí are continuing to investigate a hit and run traffic collision which happened at approximately 3pm on Saturday, May 15th at the Gort Road roundabout in Ennis.

A grey Range Rover is the suspected vehicle, the Garda investigation has detailed to date.

Both cars involved were travelling from the Ennis direction approaching the Gort

Road roundabout. A white Opel Insignia was on the inside lane turning right for the Gort Road. The grey Range Rover was on the outside lane and was heading into Shiels' filling station/McDonald's, this vehicle collided into the side of the Opel causing extensive damage.

If anyone has any information in relation to the above-mentioned incident or if you saw anything suspicious or have dashcam footage you are asked to contact Ennis Garda Station on 065-6848100.

Plans for 24 houses in Ballymaley lodged

by PÁRAIC McMAHON

PLANS have been lodged for the construction of 24 houses in Ballymaley by a company which received over €100m from the HSE for providing PPE during the pandemic.

EKO Integrated Services Ltd lodged the application with Clare County Council on Friday. It consists of 24 four bedroom detached houses.

Of the 24 houses, 19 will be two storey houses with second floor dormer rooms while the remaining five will also be two storey houses but are anticipated to have different designs.

New site entrances, roads, paths, driveways, boundary walls, pedestrian walkway, landscaping, drainage with attenuation tank and associated site works. A Natura Impact Statement will accompany the application.

Exact planning files associated with the application could not be accessed on Clare County Council’s planning section.

Situated at Áras Smith O’Brien, Bank Place, Ennis, company filings from 2018 detailed that EKO had net assets of €221,000.

Its Chief Executive is Eugene Keane, a former director of Keco Construction which had liabilities of €33.1m after it entered receivership in 2010.

In June of last year, it emerged that EKO Integrated Services Ltd which employs a total of 12 people had received a total of €102.36m for providing PPE (€93.5m) and equipment (€8.7m) to the Health Service Executive (HSE). From April to June of last year, EKO organised 14 plane loads of gowns and gloves into Ireland, it came following a recommendation to the HSE from Tipperary TD, Alan Kelly (LAB).

THURSDAY, JUN 10 2021

18 FEATURE

GREEN CLARE

Young people are being sidelined from climate justice conversation

CIAN O’BROIN cianobroin@clareecho.ie

F

RIDAYS for Future climate activist Saoirse Exton (16) is calling for younger people to be involved in the conversation on climate justice through the right to vote.

Planet Before Profit was the webinar held by People Before Profit Clare and Limerick where four keynote speakers from both counties delivered their views on

climate change. The meeting was chaired by Lisdoonvarna’s Theresa O’Donohoe, who joined the socialist party three years ago and has been an avid climate activist for ten years.

Introducing the young activist from O’ Briensbridge, Theresa said that the Fridays for Future climate action strikes organised by Saoirse have really opened up a conversation on climate action, particular-

ly with older generations. Saoirse, whose first strike took place on March 1, 2019, outside the Limerick 2030 building spoke about the link between engagement and climate action.

“Young people have been sidelined as they cannot vote. I believe that they should be allowed to vote at the age of 16. This is something I am looking to push for through the National Youth Council of Ireland. Without climate justice you cannot have climate action,” the Gaelcholáiste Luimnigh TY student stated.

Saoirse was selected as one of only 14 young people across the world to partake in the inaugural C40 Global Youth and Mayors forum. She was also elected Quality

Officer of the Irish Second-Level Students Union in May 2020 as well as participating as a delegate to the RTÉ Youth Assembly in the Dáil where students issued a number of recommendations for the Government to follow in order to tackle the climate crisis.

An issue Saoirse feels strongly about is climate justice, which she defines as “listening to all ages, people, religions and cultures”. On September 20, 2019, 1,000 people took to the streets. Since then, strikes have been curtailed. “The pandemic and the importance of schools has made the organisation of strikes very difficult in recent months. School is such an important stage in all our lives and is very short. We have lost so many people

to exams and college, but it’s essential that we get back out onto the streets”.

In having a vote at 16, Saoirse feels that young people will be more actively engaged in politics and how the world works. For her, “the climate strike movement has initiated an inter-generational movement of people looking to step up.” She highlighted that young people need to actively voice their opinion and that the current voting age is side-lining youth engagement. She looks forward to returning to her activist duties. “Climate striking has left a legacy,” she concluded.

Below: Saoirse Exton.

Photograph: John Mangan

ARTS 19

THURSDAY, JUN 10 2021

Cruinniú na nÓg looks forward to the future PÁRAIC MCMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

NUMEROUS events are to take place in Clare this Saturday as part of Cruinniú na nÓg.

By hosting the national day of free creativity for children and young people across the country, Ireland is the only country in the world to have such an occasion.

Cruinniú na nÓg is a flagship initiative of the Creative Ireland Programme’s Creative Youth plan to enable the creative potential of children and young people. It is supported by Creative Ireland

Clare and is administered by Clare County Council.

Cruinniú is a great component of the already well-established annual programme of activities organized by the Library and Arts Service for children and young adults.

Recognising the cultural vibrancy in the county, Clare County Council has mobilised a strong Creative Ireland Culture Team to deliver the programme.

Helen Walsh, Clare County Library is the Creative Ireland Coordinator and Sheila Quinn is the curator of the programme.

Artists and creative practitioners have been very busy working with young people to produce 24 events

for Cruinniú na nÓg 2021 which will be hosted online on June 12th.

Access to the diverse programme can be sourced from the Creative Ireland Clare Facebook Page and www.clarelibrary.ie.

The Magic of the Sea, an artistic event presented by children from Fanore National School is among the highlights of the day. It incorporates an engaging mix of narration, music, song, poetry, and composition.

Maeve Stone will engage children on themes of climate adaptation and community resilience during ‘Rising Tide’. Children were invited to meet Maeve on Lahinch Beach on May 29th, they collected

a special and symbolic object: a handmade ceramic boat.

They have been asked to use the boat to express their hopes for the future, for themselves, their families, and their communities. They can do this by decorating the boat and using it to hold a drawing, piece of writing, or object. They return to Lahinch last Saturday, when the boats were laid on the beach to spell out a message of hope. A video of the project will be shown this Saturday.

Access to the diverse programme can be sourced from the Creative Ireland Clare Facebook Page and www.clarelibrary.ie.

Right: Maeve Stone

Lasta at glór wants to add to the energy of summer 2021 CIAN O’BROIN

cian@clareecho.ie

T

wo Clare individuals are leading the way at one of the country’s largest collaborative arts festivals

curated by young people this year.

The festival involves twenty-one young curators who were engaged by the NASC venues to programme a festival of work for children and young people from 11th to 20th June 2021.

The programme, which is taking place across 8 venues in Ireland,

will be playing in glór Theatre Ennis between June 11-20 and has been designed by Glór’s young curators, movement artist, choreographer, and director Douglas Reddan from Quin, and Mary Nagle, a classical musician and journalist from Corofin.

The 10-day festival, Lasta at glór,

will feature theatre, dance, visual art, music, film and spoken word along with innovative site specific and multi-disciplinary events.

Douglas Reddan, one of glór’s Lasta Curators stated “Summer of 2021 is an exciting time across Ireland as we begin reopening.

We want Lasta to add to this en-

ergy by piecing a range of creative, energetic, and innovative events together for audiences to engage with like never before. Our goal with Lasta is to uplift as many people as possible in as many ways as possible and to help create a tide of optimism following a difficult year”.

20 FEATURE

THURSDAY, JUN 10 2021

Go after your dreams RONAN SCULLY

Thought for the week

W

HO WOULD have thought the world would come to this.

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed our everyday lives. We all must cope with a new way of living. Like most people, I have been trying to stay at home to try and stop the spread of COVID-19. While at home, I came to a few realisations about myself and what my life means at this very moment. I realised that this pandemic may have provided the time and environment where one could analyse their life. I dissected many aspects of my life, mostly pertaining to all the things I haven’t done in hopes of doing them soon. I’m sure many other people have thought about similar things when staying at home and this thought for the week is meant as a reminder that you’re not alone in feeling this way.

many people are stopping to think about what makes one’s life meaningful, especially when they are faced with great difficulties. This time of Covid-19 is a challenging time for many individuals and families as they struggle to meet their family’s needs, keep their homes, and provide an education for their children. How can they approach these challenges with hope and meaning? This question is open to various interpretations. As people reflect on it, they discover that the answer is more than having a high paying job, the latest styles in clothes, cars or a beautiful home.

Thought for the week

Live a Meaningful Life In his book “Man’s Search for Meaning” Viktor Frankl explores what it means to live a meaningful life, even in the midst of great suffering. Luckily for most of us, we are not faced with the gravity of suffering that Frankl experienced, but his work demonstrates that whatever our life circumstances, we can each create meaning in our lives and also share our unique gifts with the world.

We have all experienced disruptions to our personal and working lives. Some of the normal daily routines that we take for granted have had to change which has been unsettling for most people. At this time of coronavirus, when we feel like we’re victimised by what we cannot do and all the ways we cannot interact, it’s easy to forget that we’re still breathing, we’re still alive, and we’re still capable of making a difference. If we choose to make that difference, the difference we’ve made is what we will then reflect back to in the later chapters of our lives with gratitude and joy.

What’s my meaning in life?

Why am I here? is a question all of us have asked ourselves. Some of us already know and others are still trying to figure it out. Wherever you are right now, remember to always give your best and when you do it unselfishly, people will always remember you by that one thing you did. I like to do a lot of things, however, what brings more joy to my life is being able to reach out to help someone in need, or just sit and be able to listen to someone who is in need of just letting off steam. Today,

ence in life it is always more freeing to forgive. When you say sorry or seek forgiveness always mean it and if people don’t accept your apology you can do no more. Don’t give part-time people in your life a fulltime position in your head. Also, remember you can do something in an instant that will give you heartache for life but also remember if you believe enough in yourself you can keep going long after you think you can’t. Don’t spend time hating or being envious. Sometimes the people you expect to kick you when you’re down will be the ones to help you get back up, while the ones you expect to help you are nowhere to be found. Remember that you cannot make someone love you. All you can do is be someone who can be loved. The rest is up to them.

Always remember that no matter what you do in life, there is no greater thing that you can do than to love someone or care for someone or be there for someone. Be that someone, for that is what life is really all about at the end of the day!

Real genuine Love is and will always be the answer to this life.

There are different answers to this question. Some examples would be: “The ability to put food on our table for the family;” “to appreciate all the blessings that I enjoy every day;” “to have a reliance on God’s presence and power to see us through any difficulty;” and many more.

I always try to have a sense of gratitude in everyday life for all the blessings I enjoy even in the midst of difficulty and I always offer care and compassion to those in need as much as I can and by showing the example of a good ethical life lived in peace and hope. Living a meaningful life means following your heart’s calling, it means choosing your own meaning, not living by anyone else’s, it means saying goodbye to those pangs of self-doubt, and it means feeling fulfilled every day, knowing deep down in your bones that you are living in alignment with your heart.

Express Gratitude Always as much as possible express gratitude to people who have helped you along life’s way. To forgive or not to forgive is one of our life choices, I think from my experi-

As your thought for the week, look at your life’s experiences and see what you are doing about them and as the saying goes, go after your dreams, for happy are those that dream dreams but even happier are those who try to achieve them.

Remember it’s not what happens to you and people that’s important.

It’s what you and they do about it.

Go after your dreams. Go achieve them. For Life can be and is short!

I took advantage of my self-isolation during the various lockdowns to reflect on my life and hope to come out of this with a much clearer picture of who I am and what I want to accomplish in my life.

This pandemic has rocked the world, and no one could have imagined that these last 18 months or so would turn out like this. But as the world recovers, I think it’s important to take a step back and give yourself the time and space to reflect on your goals and accomplishments. We owe it to ourselves to take care of our mental, physical and spiritual health while also helping others survive this time.

I reflected on my mortality and routines, but there are many things that deserve to be pondered upon, such as how privileged we are to be living in a country that is helping out most of its citizens every step of the way, or how interdependent the world really is and even how societies have a long ways to go in regards to social inequalities. We need to take care of ourselves through this time and be hopeful for the future so we can bring positive change to the world and live meaningful lives.

And to always remember that although Life is very short at times, it is also very beautiful.

Give it your all.

Clare can strive to become the 'most accessible friendly county in Ireland'

by PÁRAIC McMAHON CO CLARE can strive to become ‘the most accessible friendly county in Ireland’ by developing an app to enable the public particularly persons with disabilities on how to best navigate through the county.

Conceptualisation of disability is changing from a medical and charitable model to a social one, Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) stated as she called on Clare County Council to complete a survey on Ennis and later other towns and villages “using existing apps and mapping software include buildings, invite businesses to participate to assess accessibility for all. This will include parking, gradients, access and amenities”.

She explained that the purpose of the app would be to promote and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of our county by all persons with a disability.

Our towns and villages will become more accessible and welcoming places and our county could be marketed as "the most accessible, friendly county in Ireland”.

Senior executive officer with the Corporate Services section of the County Council, Ann Reynolds insisted the local authority was “committed to creating an environment that can be used by all people, regardless of their age, size, disability or ability”.

Principles of universal design are “applied organisation wide at the planning and

design stage of all projects” be it roads, footpaths, public spaces or amenities, Reynolds outlined. The Ennis Walkability Study completed in 2019 identified parking on footpaths and dog fouling as areas impacting on pedestrians and persons with disabilities in the town.

“An app could raise awareness not just to those with disabilities but to others who may realise the difficulties out there,” Cllr McGettigan said.

The Shannon representative believed a bigger commitment was required to having a “less disabling” approach to persons with disabilities. She became aware of the “difficulties getting around” while canvassing with members of Sinn Féin’s Ennis cumann prior to the 2019 local elections.

Big improvements can be made for both Ennis and Co Clare when it comes to disability friendliness, Cllr Ann Norton (IND) maintained. Engineers in Ennis have been proactive to different ideas such as communication boards to make the county town accessible for all disabilities, she felt. “We have to be very engaging with the people and listen to what the people with disabilities need, disability is not all physical”.

Cllr Gerry Flynn (IND) backed the proposal to bring about further improvements, “I believe this motion is a social inclusion issue and I’d be of the opinion that all sectors of society have full access to services”. Cllr Susan Crawford (GP) also supported the motion.

Explore ALL of Clare. It will surprise you!

NEWS

THURSDAY, JUNE 10 2021

Clare is Amazing,

This ‘Clare is Amazing’ page, sponsored by Clare County Council and Visit Clare Tourism, will be a regular feature in this paper over the weeks ahead. We will be reminding readers of experiences that can be explored and enjoyed in Clare in line with the latest public health guidelines.

We’ll also encourage readers to ‘Get out There’ and share their experiences with other readers – your tips! What have you discovered and loved on your trip-taking and staycations within the County? Tell us, and you could win some great prizes, and we’ll share some of the best tips on this page in the weeks ahead.

For now, here are just a few suggestions: • Be a Tourist for a day. In any typical year, Clare would be welcoming over 1.2 million visitors from within Ireland and worldwide. They are drawn to Clare because of all the possibilities for enjoyment and fun. Our seascapes, landscapes and lakescapes provide them with the amazing natural backdrops within which each visitor can shape their own experience. You have the great advantage of living here. For one or more days, imagine yourself as a tourist and really explore what can be enjoyed at this time.

Take in places that you are not overly familiar with.

• Head for the open spaces. In Clare, there are plenty of open spaces and amazing places. Enjoy the beaches, forests, parks, Wild Atlantic Way coastline, The Burren, the Hidden Heartlands, historical sites and geological wonders.

• Get Lost! As well as travelling to your favourite places, travel to the parts of Clare you don’t know. Go and get lost – and see where it takes you! Clare is full of surprises.

• Walk the Walk. Clare has lots of fantastic loop and linear walks to suit all levels of fitness. For the serious walker, there are well-organised routes, including national trails that are well sign-posted. There are also

great loop walks suited to walkers of different levels of fitness. Our clifftop, mountain-top, and hill-top walks are spectacular.

• Bring a picnic, or buy a picnic. As ‘eating in’ places are not yet open, either bring a picnic or check out the places you can pick up a tasty takeaway. Restaurants and cafés are very creative at this time, and you can order and pick up excellent meals and snacks. It’s also a great way to support local businesses!

lare Tell C IN and W

21

Sponsored by

Tell our readers what you loved most about your recent trip around the County, and win some great prizes - including a Family Staycation Holiday.

take it ALL in...

Every second week we will draw winners for our latest prizes from those who provide good feedback and tips. Then, at the end of August, we will also draw from all entrants for a very special weekend staycation for either a family or two sharing (the winners choice!).

Unique scenery puts Clare in the picture This Weeks Prize

Win a ‘Walk with a Hawk’ at the Aillwee Cave Burren Birds of Prey Centre

A Hawk Walk at Aillwee is a once in a lifetime opportunity to interact with some of nature’s top predators. Guided and instructed by experienced Falconers, Aillwee’s hour-long ‘Walk with a Hawk’ through hazel woodland and across Burren limestone pavement is tailor-made for anybody seeking a totally unique experience. The lucky winner and a friend can avail of the prize once the Aillwee Cave and the Birds of Prey Centre re-opens. That’s something to look forward to! See www.AillweeCave.ie

C

OUNTY CLARE has ognised Cliffs of Moher views the wider county has to offer emerged as one of the most are usually the first port of call coupled with a burgeoning “Instagrammable” loca- for international visitors to our domestic tourism market has Feedback Win!more of Clare’s tions in Ireland thanks to county and frequently pop up Online led totomany To haveacross a chance to win, its unique and contrasting scen- on social media timelines photogenic beauty spots being visit www.Clare.ie/TellClare ery from the karst landscape of the globe. placed under the social media the Burren to the lakelands of In recent times however, spotlight.

East Clare. the increase in fully Indepensafe. Protect each other. Please remember to follow all public health advice. Above all, always distance yourself www.Clare.ie TheStay and world-recdent covering Travellers at iconic least 2 meters (6 feet) from other people. Wear face coverings, your mouthexploring and nose, when in what proximity to others. Wash your hands well and frequently. See www.gov.ie/covid

For this reason alone, here is a short list of the some of the most Instagrammable locations around the county: • The Burren’s folded limestone layers during a walking trip around the Ballyvaughan Wood Loop.

• The spectacular natural sea arches at the Bridges of Ross.

E N N I S F R I A RY

• A bird’s eye view of the majestic Lough Derg from the hills of Ballycuggaran.

• The 13th century ruins of Ennis Friary.

A selection of dozens of other picturesque locations can be discovered on the new Visit Clare gallery featuring a library of over 1,700 free-to-use photographs and video of The Banner County.

The library includes images of The Burren, Clare’s dramatic Atlantic Coastline, The River Shannon, Lough Derg, Activities and Attractions, History, Dining, and Clare’s Town and Villages.

Visit www.clare.ie/share

B A L LY VA U G H A N W O O D L O O P

B A L LY C U G G A R A N , N E A R K I L L A L O E

BRIDGES OF ROSS

22 COLUMNISTS

THURSDAY, JUN 10 2021

Summer Seafood Traybake Kearney I Cooks LOVE a one-pot wonder, such as a big bowl of stew or curry, and as I was feeling particularly lazy today it called for a big bowl of goodness with the minimum effort. I recalled a seafood dish I had eaten in Spain that I knew would fit the bill perfectly. It’s a lovely seafood traybake, combining shellfish and chorizo. A perfect fit for a fine summers day.

You will need 12 mussels 12 prawns A 200g ring of chorizo 10 baby potatoes 2 cooked corn cobs 1 red onion 4 garlic cloves 200g garlic butter 2 tsp smoked Paprika Lemon wedges to serve Step 1 Put your potatoes into a preheated oven for 25 mins at 180c. Whilst they are cook-

into the oven for a further 5 minutes. You will know it’s cooked when all the mussels are open. If the mussels don’t open, don’t eat them.

Step 4 Horse into it. This dish goes lovely with a nice glass of wine, either red or white.

ing wash and debeard your mussels, clean your prawns and peel and chop your chorizo into slices. Cut your onion into chunks, slightly crush your garlic and cut your corn cobs into three.

Step 2 Take your potatoes out of the oven and add all your veg, seafood and chorizo to the dish. Dot your garlic butter around the dish and sprinkle over the smoked paprika.

Put it back in the oven for 10 mins.

Step 3 After ten minutes take your dish out and give everything a good stir. Pop it back

This is a great dish to plonk in the middle of the table and let people help themselves. The above recipe would serve four people, and I would accompany it with a large bowl of salad and crusty bread such as focaccia or sourdough, and an absolute heap of wine.

As usual, if you have any questions about this dish or any others I have done just message kearneycooks on insta, and keep an eye out on the Clare Echo social media channels for the instructional video that goes with this recipe.

Enjoy

The scent of summer ,

N

OW THAT summer is upon us, it’s nice to smell according to the season. As women, we all have our staple perfumes that we simply can’t live without.

Branching out to other scents is another great way to keep giving your perfume collection some variety. I have researched the top 5 best summer perfumes that I personally have tried and love. This is to help you find the best quality scents this summer.

These products are all available in your local pharmacy.

Clarins Des Jardins This scent is my personal favourite because it is so fresh and elegant. It is such a crisp fragrance with essential oils that also help hydrate and tone your skin. This is one of the staple perfumes in my collection and I don’t think I will ever get sick of it. This 100ml perfume is so affordable, ranging from €35 to €40. This product is a dupe for a lot of the leading designer scents which showcases how reasonable this product is price-wise. This product shows the elegance of the Clarins brand and is such a treat to have.

DKNY Be Delicious This is a gorgeous fruity scent that is the first to be extracted from apples delectable juice.

If you love that fruity and sweet scent, then this perfume is perfect for you. The packaging is a round bottle shape like a green apple, giving off the idea of the scent. It is so unique and is perfect for everyday use. This

,

50ml bottle retails from €45 to €50.

Lacoste: Touch of Pink This scent is perfect for any season but also gives that fruity fresh feeling. It involves ingredients such as jasmine, violet, coriander leaves, blood orange, soothing sandalwood, musk and vanilla. This 30ml bottle is perfect for being everywhere and retails at a range of prices from €25 to €30.

Daisy Dream Marc Jacobs This perfume is a great ‘treat yourself ’ present when you want a good summer scent. This has a fruity and floral scent to it leaving you to smell like a combination of blackberry, fresh grapefruit, succulent pear, and a hint of coconut water. The packaging shows the whole theme of the Marc Jacobs daisy collection with a 50ml bottle ranging from €75 to €80.

Amor Amor Cacharel This scent is presented as a romantic one, giving fruit and floral smells to leave you with that summer love feeling. This fragrance, in the perfect compact bottle offers elegance and a unique scent. The ingredients are blackcurrent, luxurious jasmine, lily and rose. The 50ml bottle ranges from €25 to €30.

This just shows the variety of summer scents that our local pharmacies have to offer so I would encourage you to shop local when discovering the latest summer fragrances.

COLUMNISTS 23

THURSDAY, JUN 10 2021

With

With

With

The sound of silage Making a good silage pit is no different from building a solid house says The Clare Echo farming columnist Joe Melody

T

HERE is a waltz going on in our meadows under the overcast summer sky. This waltz is choreographed to a not so subtle melody, a loud hum and rev of tractor engine and silage harvester all working in unison.

While the harvester continues its stride across the field, a new partner arrives under the chute of the harvester and together they manoeuvre the field as like a dancing couple bound together, twisting and turning in one another's shadow at the headlands, then as that tractor and trailer departs once full, another partner takes up the dance.

While the tractors, trailers and harvester continued their waltz in the meadows, the silage pit continues to climb upward in the yard. This is where the master plying his trade is most obvious. Making a good silage pit is no different from building a solid house, the foundations have to be sound and from there it is built layer by layer, each layer as well-compacted as the first. I must confess that no lover of machinery am I, however, I always marvel at people who work these machines at an expert level. Before long the silage is in the pit and covered for another year.

This year we went back to basics with silage making. By basics I mean we kept mechanical manipulation of the cut sward to a minimum. We cut the crop dry in 30-foot rows, it was picked up the next day and pitted. Other years we would have spread the crop with a tedder, the wilt helped garner a higher dry matter but on the other end

it made it more difficult to compact as dry grass is hard to seal. The silage turned out very well but I would question how necessary wilting is if the crop is cut dry and left a few hours to wilt in its own rows. Either way, we shall find out when we get this pit tested in the autumn.

Some of the silage ground will receive slurry at a rate of 2,500 gallons per acre over the next few days and we will top this up for a second cut with 60 units of nitrogen in the form of protected urea.

We intend to take a second cut on most of the silage ground, however, some of it will be baled early in the form of light after grass. This will be our buffer feed in case of drought or inclement weather that could bring on an early winter.

The past few weeks have been hectic between breeding season, silage and our herd test which thankfully was clear. There is a palpable sense of relief to have so many milestones passed in the year already and perhaps now we can take things a little easier. It is neither healthy nor productive to run a machine at full capacity all the time and the same goes for us humans. Being productive in business is very important, however in the midst of being productive it is rare that one gets a chance to be creative, this is why downtime is essential. Luckily spring calving dairy farming is seasonal so it offers us the benefit of work-life balance. It is only a matter of taking it.

Below: King of the Pit, Aidan Mulready working on the Melody’s pit in Bunratty.

24 COMMUNITY

Community ENNIS

THURSDAY, JUN 10 2021

CONTACT NEWSDESK

065 671 9021 news@clareecho.ie

WEST CLARE

SUPPORT SAMARITANS ENNIS AND CLARE BY GETTING ACTIVE OUTDOORS THIS SUMMER Samaritans Ennis and Clare is encouraging people to sign up to Samarathon and set themselves the challenge of walking, jogging or running the equivalent of a marathon distance (26.2 miles) during July, helping the charity’s volunteers continue to provide vital emotional support.

Listening volunteers at the Ennis branch are encouraging County Clare residents to make the most of the long summer days after months of lockdown by getting active and being out in nature, which is known to help boost physical and mental wellbeing.

Participants can choose how, when and where they complete their marathon – and can sign up alongside friends and family as a team, cheering each other on either in person or remotely.

During registration at www.samaritans.org/samarathon you can opt to raise funds for the Ennis branch in a drop down menu, and although funds appear to be collected in £ (sterling), all funds will go directly to Samaritans Ennis and Clare branch in euros. Margaret MacMahon Branch Director at Samaritans Ennis and Clare, said: “Samarathon provides a great opportunity to get active and enjoy spending time outdoors which is more important than ever during the pandemic. It is also a real boost to our volunteers, who have clocked up so many hours providing emotional support to those who are struggling to cope during these challenging times.

“The pandemic has significantly hampered our ability to fundraise over the past 12 months. Taking part in this challenge is not only a fun way to look after your own mental health and wellbeing but will allow us to support others who are struggling with theirs.”

NOTHING CAN STOP RELAY FOR LIFE ENNIS As we face into a second summer of restricted events, Relay for Life Ennis won’t let a pandemic stop them from keeping up the fight against Cancer.

Instead of gathering at Tim Smythe Park, Relay for Life Ennis will be gathering virtually again this year to help raise awareness and needed funds for the Irish Cancer Society.

Auriol Considine, Relay for Life Ennis Chairperson, explains, “Relay for Life Ennis has grown into an important community event, and we didn’t want that community spirit to lose momentum. We are challenging teams to collectively walk 240kms by 19th June sticking with the 24 theme of the actual event. We have some other enthusiastic teams that have decided to do their own events such as hiking Mullaghmore and Carrauntoohill or running in Lahinch. We’re thrilled with whatever way people want to get involved as it all helps to raise awareness and builds community spirit which is at the heart of Relay for Life.

“We are also premiering interviews with local people who have been impacted by Cancer on our Facebook page. We hope that other patients, survivors and their families will get some comfort from hearing similar stories and know they are not alone in their journey.”

The Irish Cancer Society has increased its services for cancer patients and their families during this global pandemic. Hence, fundraisers, like this, are essential to continue this support. Funds raised by Relay for Life helps to provide volunteer drivers to bring patients to chemotherapy, night nurse care, family supports and end of life care.

In 2020, the Relay for Life Ennis virtual event raised €30,100 to support these amazing services. You can get involved in the 2021 event to help continue these services by going to Relay For Life Ennis Just Giving page https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/RelayForLife-Ennis.

A unique and vital element of every Relay For Life is the Candle of Hope ceremony where decorated candle bags with personal messages are lit during an emotional ceremony. This year anyone can participate in the ‘Hope from Home’ ceremony on 19th June at 9pm by joining the live Facebook event as a symbol that we are not alone in the fight against Cancer.

Anyone from anywhere can purchase candle bags online to leave a message on the virtual Relay for Life Ennis candle bag wall. Alternatively, you can pick up a bag to decorate from Cootes Shop & Bakery, Clare Hire & Sales and Clarecastle Pharmacy. Send us a picture of your decorated bag lighting or drop the bag back to Coote’s Shop and your bag will be included in the lighting ceremony on the 19th June.

“We are blown away by the enthusiasm from businesses and entertainers that have supported the event in the past. This is truly a community event where we can come together united against cancer to celebrate life, remember loved ones lost to the disease, and fight back against cancer by raising awareness about cancer prevention,” concluded Auriol.

For more information and to join the event on Saturday 19th June, visit the Relay for Life Ennis Facebook and Instagram pages.

If you have any questions about Cancer, either as a patient or as a family member, call the Cancer Nurseline on Freephone 1800 200 700.

l HAPPY 101 BIRTHDAY: Mrs Peg Morgan celebrated her 101st Birthday at her home in Blainmore Kilmurry McMahon, Kilrush on the 1st of June with her two daughters Peggy and Agatha, relatives, neighbours and friends. Peg received a beautiful letter and a commemorative medal from Michael D.Higgins, President of Ireland. Peg received many cards gifts and telephone calls from home and abroad. Peg enjoyed her special birthday and joined in the wonderful music and song.

Peg wishes to thank everyone for making her birthday such a special occasion. Pictured with Peg is Tommy McCarthy, congratulating Peg on her big day.

Outdoor Dining

‘Palpable positivity’ as hospitality sector reopens 26 OUTDOOR DINING

THURSDAY, JUN 10 2020

CIAN O’BROIN

A

cian@clareecho.ie

A “palpable positivity” was present in the air as Clare’s hospitality sector reopened its doors following the further easing of restrictions on Monday.

Restaurants and bars are permitted once again to open for outdoor service for groups of up to six. All shops and retail are now open, cinemas and theatres have returned and gyms, leisure centres and pools are open for individual training for the first time this year.

Pubs and restaurants with the capacity to cater for outdoor dining welcomed back customers on Monday. “It was great to have that pal-

l EXCITED TO RETURN: Publican Darragh McAllister pable positivity all around the air

KNOXS PUB, ENNIS Restaurant and pub

K

NOX’S is open for outdoor drinks and dining and helping to contribute to a more-vibrant than normal atmosphere on Abbey Street this summer.

Mike, Declan and the team are delighted to welcome all of their customers back in the new outdoor dining area. Knox’s is open every day from 2-11:30pm.

once we reopened,” Lucas’ owner

Darragh McAllister told The Clare Echo. “There have been so many people that were kept out of work for so long and so many people that were happy to amidst the noise of others,” he added.

For him, one of the most frightening affects of the pandemic has been on town centres. Hearing deafening silence throughout urban hotspots like Ennis the past few months has been disquieting. The President of Ennis Chamber added that there were no issues since reopening and that everyone is sanitising, respecting staff and following all social distancing guidelines.

He also acknowledged the hardship and frustration being faced by smaller establishments unable to provide outdoor dining spaces and have consequently, not been able to reopen. “As long as everything works, these places will be joining

CRUISES, ENNIS

us soon. This is the closest we have been to normality in over a year,” he finished.

Co-Owner of East Clare Fitness Shane McGrath stated that the Scariff and Kilkishen gyms are delighted to welcome back clients and that despite a large amount of online training and work throughout the lockdown, nothing comes close to connecting with clients face to face.

“Outside of the training side is the social aspect of it all. Coming to the gym and meeting people is much more motivating than being at home and training on your own.

People are delighted to get back to some sort of normality again. There is a huge mental health factor to it all,” the Feakle man with a degree in strength and conditioning from LIT stated.

Casual dining and pub

Nora Culligans, ENNIS

P

N

INTS and cocktails will be flowing in Cruises, Abbey Street with the reopening of outdoor dining this week. The infamous establishment has a vast outdoor area to enjoy your drinks in comfort this summer.

Staff and management are delighted to welcome all of their customers back. “We are fully sanitised and ready to go. We are looking forward to serving food and drink alfresco.”

Outdoor Dining

Pub

ora Culligan’s are delighted to welcome everyone back to our new and improved outdoor areas, we are fully sanitised and are abiding by all Covid safety measures. We would also like to thank all of our staff for being so loyal over the last 15 months.

OUTDOOR DINING 27

THURSDAY, JUN 10 2020

O’Keefes/Steele’s, Ennis Pub

Copper Jug, Ennis

O

T

Casual dining and pub

KEEFE’S and Tom Steele’s pubs are delighted to welcome customers back, with a special eclosed street-facing area bringing added atmosphere to the Lifford establishment. The sun hits directly on the outside area which is directly across from the Ennis Courthouse.

The Abbey Bar, Ennis Casual dining and pub

T

he Abbey Bar & Josie O’Sheas underwent significant upgrades in recent yeras and has appealed to a wider social clientelle as a result. Its food menu continues to attract a busy afternoon trade also and with the benefit of the atmospheric town centre covered outdoor area, they are delighted to be back serving food and drink outdoors.

HE Copper Jug in Lifford is one of the pubs to really catch the eye with their outdoor upgrades in preparation for the return of sitting customers. Thanking their customers for continued support, The Copper Jug management are delighted to welcome everyone back to the newly renovated Off Spring outdoor drinking and dining area.

Lucas Bar, Ennis

Michael Kerins, Ennis Casual dining and pub

M

ichael Kerin’s bar is a well-known family run business on Steele’s Terrace, nestled among a cluster of excellent pubs in the area. Serving homemade soup and freshly made sandwiches during the day.

Kerin’s are looking forward to welcoming back all their customers for a nice creamy pint of Guinness in Kerin’s bar.

Pub

McHughs, Ennis

E

I

Casual dining and pub

VERYONE at Lucas’ is delighted to welcome back our customers. As we all finally get back to normal we’re excited to begin the NEW normal in style! With our refurbished beer garden and, thanks to Clare County Council & Ennis Chamber, our new on-street service area, there really is a Grand Stretch in the Evenings! We can’t wait to see you all again, bringing a new meaning to “One For The Road”!

t’s time to swing open the doors of McHugh’s and welcome everybody back. We’d like to thank all our staff for working tirelessly to get everything ready for reopening. We have been cleaning, restocking and improving where we can to ensure a great night out as safely as possible.

We will open for lunch Thursday to Sunday from 12.30 with a new menu but with some old favourites.

We look forward to welcoming you all back to McHugh’s and getting back to doing what we do best.

Outdoor Dining

28 OUTDOOR DINING

Dan O’Connells, Ennis

THURSDAY, JUN 10 2020

Casual dining and pub

Fawls, Ennis

W

F

e are over the moon to have our doors open again and welcome, new and returning customers. Ennis has never looked so well, with thanks to the recently refurbished lane ways, which have helped us create a beautiful seating area to the rear of our building. There is a buzz back in Ennis and there’s a buzz back in O’Connells. We look forward to seeing you all soon.

O’Deas, ENNIS Pub

O

’Deas pub near the Cathedral on O’Connell Street has long been a firm favourite for Guinness drinkers while its interior upgrades in recent years has made it a standard-bearing traditional Irish pub. With a new and improved outdoor area allowing for additional capacity, O’Deas are fully sanitised and ready to go.

Pub

AWLS has always been ahead of the curve when it comes to outdoor seating and is famous for its stunning murals depicting the West Clare railway of old.

More recently it was a big hit during the Fleadhanna that came to Ennis with the addition of its outside serving area. Fawls we are fully sanitised and ready to welcome all our customers back, and thank all the public for your continued support.

Ennis Gourmet Store Café and outdoor beverages

We are in business 23 years and have always being known for our outside dining.

We are in the sunny side of the street, tucked away from the main thoroughfare in ennis, we serve Mediterranean food with a French flavor, tapas. Cheese plates , salads and the finest of beers and a comprehensive wine list, , be sure to book a table for one of the sunniest areas in ennis, Telephone 0868796583. Or 0656843314, Email ennisgourmetstore@gmail.com

Outdoor Dining

Brogans, ENNIS Casual dining and pub

B

ROGAN’S on O’Connell Street in Ennis town centre is one of Clare’s most iconic pubs and for years has welcomed locals and tourists alike in their thousands. With an expanded outdoor seating area and now with a capacity of 150 seated outdoor diners, its owners say they are delighted to be able to welcome all their customers back for outdoor drinking and dining.

Taylors, ENNIS Pub

A

FTER a long break Taylor’s are delighted to be welcoming our customers back.

Join us for an outdoor drink in our newest addition to the beer garden.

OUTDOOR DINING 29

THURSDAY, JUN 10 2020

The Market Bar, Ennis Casual dining and pub

Halfway House, ENNIS

H

W

ere at the Market Bar and Restaurant, we tried to create a cosy outdoor dining space for all out valued customer to enjoy our food and drinks al fresco. We are happy to be back open serving you all and look forward to seeing everyone.

Armada Hotel

Outdoor dining and drinks

M

ake a break for the West & join us for an alfresco lunch by the Sea! We have Little Johnny’s Pizza serving our signature pizza and salads, Catch Seafood Truck, Gulls Coffee and our new look Ocean Bar Terrace serving light bites. All outlets are open 7 days a week all summer!

Pub

e are delighted to welcome back our loyal customers and look forward to meeting everyone in a safe and comfortable environment. Join us in our recently renovated outside area where we hope to bring you a unique outdoor experience.

A special thanks to Elaine Gannon and all our staff for the hard work to make the reopening possible. All the best to everyone in the Hospitality sector from Trisha, Paul and all here at The Halfway House.

Flanagans, Lahinch

The Old Ground, ENNIS Restaurant and beverages

T

HE Old Ground Hotel, long a family favourite amongst the people of County Clare, has gone all out to provide a beautiful outdoor setting in its garden under the guise of the Poet’s Corner Pop Up Garden.

With dining and beverage options available, we’re sure the Old Ground will be a hit on the summer evenings for months to come.

Bar and Restaurant

Roadside Tavern

F

E

Casual dining and pub

lanagans Bar & Restaurant has been looking after both locals and visitors to Lahinch for over 100 years. We are delighted to reopen and welcome back all our customers and are really looking forward to a busy summer.

Whether its craft beers from our own Western Herd Brewing Company, cocktails, wines and whiskeys we have something for everyone to go with our home cooked food using the best of local ingredients. Call in to us on the Main Street in Lahinch along the Wild Atlantic Way.

njoy the Burren Pizzas with Burren Smoked Irish Organic Salmon, St Tola Goats Cheese, Fish and Chips & Scampi & Chips along with the Lisdoonvarna establishment’s own Burren Brewery Lager, Stout and Ale. The Roadside Tavern offers spacious and protected Outdoor dining and are Failte Ireland Safety Charter approved.

Outdoor Dining

30 OUTDOOR DINING

Kilshanny

Casual dining and pub

THURSDAY, JUN 10 2020

Outdoor dining will be available in the garden overlooking the green vales of Kilshanny.

The menu will be called “Tine” Irish for “fire”. The best produce will be cooked over fire on the wood fire grill and wood fire oven.

The style will be similar to tapas/ small plates, designed to be shared amongst diners. You order a few dishes and everyone gets to have a taste. Grilled Irish meats and seafoods, wood fire roast vegetables as well as flat breads and pizzas. As well as salads and sides.. Simple dishes, expertly cooked using wood fire. A bottle bar will operate from a stable in the garden.

Aiming to be open early July, follow social media for updates.

Car parking available. Pre Booking essential.

FOR ALL YOUR BACK TO BUSINESS REQUIRMENTS PLEASE CALL OUR SALES TEAM ON 061 410622 / DEIRDRE 087 2721439 info@shsonline.ie

McGanns, Doolin Bar and restaurant

W

ITH an attractive outdoor area, what better way to spend an afternoon in the fresh North Clare air at McGanns pub. Management would like to welcome all of customers back and would like to thank everyone for their continued support.

McDermotts, Doolin Bar and restaurant

Large selection of Outdoor furniture Outdoor Gas heaters Wind breakers Service trays/table caddys Wind proof ashtrays Chef uniforms/shoes Kitchen utensils & chef supplies Table ware specialists Disposable takeaway boxes/cups/containers/cutlery Commercial catering equipment & refrigeration

Shannon Hotel Supplies Unit 6D, Docklands Business Park, Dock Rd, Limerick, Ireland

Sales No: 1850 20 04 05 Phone: 061 410 622 Fax: 061 410 123 Email: info@shsonline.ie

Outdoor Dining

O

NE of a number of famous Doolin establishments, McDermott’s is back in business. Patsy and Stephen look forward to welcoming back all customers old and new. Call for a drink and some delicious food served daily from 1pm in the new outdoor dining space “Paps Shack”. Management add that they are looking forward to the return of our renowned musicians very soon, when permitted.....watch this space!

OUTDOOR DINING 31

THURSDAY, JUN 10 2020

Shannon Springs Casual dining and pub

Y

ippee...The Beer Garden & Carpark Areas are now open for drinks & food at Shannon Springs Hotel.

The four-star hotel is the only one to have remained open throuhout every lockdown to for essential purposes, but now the much loved Shannon establishment is ready to welcome the entire county. It’s a Walk In System...just pop down to the Lodge, “we can’t wait to serve you!”

Sweet n Green Café

S

WEET n’Green is a family-run gem in the centre of Ennis which has stolen the hearts of foodies and healthy eaters alike since its establishment. While takeaway services continued as restrictions allowed, diners can now sit outsite in the new seated area across from Ennis Friary and enjoy healthy breakfast and lunch options.

Cooks Lane, Ennis Café - Wine Bar & Tapas

C

OOK’S Lane Café has extended its offering on reopening and now serves as a Wine Bar & Tapas establishment on evenings.

Open for outdoor dining and drinks, all day breakfast, brunch & lunch.

Opening hours: Tues to Sat 9am to 3pm, Sun 10am to 2pm Evening Tapas & Pizza Thurs -Sat 5-11pm Reservations are not necessary but if you wish you can do so @0870615792. Wheelchair Accessible, covered outdoor area & child friendly. Best wishes to everyone & Stay Safe.

Rowan Tree

Ennis Food Emporium Café

T

HE Ennis Food Emporium would like to thank all of our customers for their continued support and we can’t wait to welcome everyone back. We would also like to take this opportunity to thank all of our staff for their hard work. For all enquiries, catering and bookings contact “06568320554”

Casual dining and café

Café Aroma

W

C

Café

E are so excited to be able to welcome our customers back initially to our outdoor covered terrace and we will be opening on June 9th and will be open from Wednesday to Sunday serving lunch from 12pm and evening meals from 5pm and of course we have a fully stocked bar with Guinness and Carlsberg on draught and delicious Illy coffee.

Check out our menus on www.rowantreecafebar. ie or call us on 065 6868 669 Follow us on Instagram and twitter and @rowantreeennis #rowan3

afé Aroma is delighted to welcome all their customers back to their outdoor dining area. Café Aroma is open 7 days a week 8:30am-6pm serving all day breakfast and lunches.

Outdoor Dining

32 OUTDOOR DINING

THURSDAY, JUN 10 2020

Durty Nelly’s

JP Clarkes, Bunratty

Casual dining and pub

Restaurant and pub

A

NTICIPATING a busy summer of outdoor dining, the team at JP Clarke’s have spent the last lockdown creating a garden oasis in the heart of Bunratty Village. An allweather outdoor dining area has been built onto the restaurant façade for more blustery days; while the beer garden outside Gallagher’s has enjoyed

a complete overhaul taking full advantage of summer with pretty flowers abloom in every corner.

Having opened for outdoor dining earlier this month, JP Clarke’s is now offering a full dining service including takeaway, every day from 12 to 9:30pm. Find out more at jpclarkes.ie or call 061 363363.

D

URTY Nelly’s in Bunratty is not just one of the oldest and most iconic establishments in Ireland, it’s also one of the county people’s favourites.

Having completed a massive transformation, it’s ready to welcome back outdoor diners and drinkers for the summer weather. Now over 400 years in business, it’s conveniently located on the motorway for passers-by and visitors to the folk park.

Chef/Cook Required at Fanny O’Deas - We are looking for that special one that can help drive our food business & join our fun team, Ideally someone with 2-3 years experience.

- This is a full time position with No late nights or split shifts.

- Ensuring that all food preparation is carried out in accordance with food hygiene procedures. and that food is prepared to required standards checking for flavor, presentation, and quality.

- They will ensure that food is served promptly and work is carried out quickly and efficiently. Keeping a close eye on portion control, preparation, and storage methods. avoid wastage and keep down costs.

- The successful candidate would ideally be ambitious, hardworking, loyal & have a passion for Cooking.

Outdoor Dining

Lissycasey, Co. Clare

THURSDAY, JUN 10 2020

OUTDOOR DINING 33

l UP AND RUNNING: (clockwise from top left) pubs and cafés across the county are delighted to be back in action after the latest easing of restrictions. Lucas’s beergarden; the Halfway House; McDermott’s in Doolin; Durty Nellies in Bunratty; Brogan’s on O’Connell Street, Ennis.

Outdoor Dining

34 BUSINESS & RECRUITMENT

THURSDAY, JUN 10 2021

BUSINESS AND RECRUITMENT

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

€500k on Cliffs of Moher plan PÁRAIC MCMAHON

paraic@clareecho.ie

H

ALF a million euros is being spent on the development of the Cliffs of Moher 2040 strategy which is due to be completed by the end of this year.

Clare County Council and Fáilte Ireland are funding the strategy which is undertaken by the Cliffs of Moher Centre Ltd with Leicester based Haley Sharpe Design consultants for the project which started in November 2019. €500,000 is the cost of the project which is evenly split between the local authority and Fáilte Ireland. Clare Co Council have “self-generated” their share through takings from the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience.

An extension of six months to the project was agreed on account of COVID-19 with the timeframe for completion now scheduled for the final quarter of this year. Currently, it is at the public and stakeholder consultation phase and is viewed as a masterplan for the country’s most visited natural attraction.

Eighteen individuals are on the steering committee, eight of which are associated with the County Council including Director of Service, Leonard Cleary, Head

of Tourism Deirdre O’Shea, Cllr Shane Talty (FF) and Cllr Gabriel Keating (FG).

Bobby Kerr, Chairperson of the Board of Cliffs of Moher ad Geraldine Enright, Director of Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience are also on the committee along with Fáilte Ireland trio, Paul Carty (interim Chairperson), Miriam Kennedy (Head of Wild Atlantic Way), Fiona Monaghan (New Projects Manager).

Preliminary research, on-site investigations and “desk-top studies” have been the focus of the work to date in a bid to understand the challenges facing the Cliffs of Moher and to identify the potential opportunities.

Challenges highlighted include the negative impact of large visitor numbers at peak times including the consequence for local communities, towns and villages, vehicle congestion, a poor sense of arrival and reducing the disruption for locals. The limited economic impact of the attraction which had 1.9m visitors in 2019 also needs to be addressed, short dwell times, low secondary spending and limited overnight stays are earmarked as items to tackle. Environmental damage is also under discussion, these conversations are touching on the physical damage, threats to flora and fauna plus the visual intrusion to the landscape.

l STRATEGY: Cliffs of Moher Placing the Cliffs “at the heart of a world class sustainable tourism destination through the development of enhanced relationships and links with the Burren, the Wild Atlantic Way, and the Wider Hinterland,” Director of Service with Clare County Council, Leonard Cleary stated. The Cliffs can be used as “the magnet to attract and disperse visitors across the county”.

Plans are to be put together to introduce a sustainable transport system across the county to deliver sustainable access to the Cliffs and beyond, remote parking hubs and a shuttle bus system. A new focus on the cliff edge experience is to be drafted, initial ideas tabled include ‘walking on the edge of the world’ and ‘creating exciting opportunities to go to the edge and over’.

Work on the strategy offers “a once in a generation opportunity for the Ennistymon local electoral area and the Burren,” Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) maintained. The

Cathaoirleach of the West Clare MD has led the call for a plan focusing on the host communities within the LEA that will align with the strategy.

Community collaboration and consultation is “key” to the success of the strategy, Cllr Susan Crawford (GP) maintained. “An elderly gentleman pointed out to me in Miltown, the people that were coming to Miltown, Kilfenora and all these places in the 70s and 80s, they hadn’t heard of the Cliffs, they were coming for the music. We really want to see this giving a bigger picture in the overall strategy”.

Clare’s tourism offering is the “envy of so many other counties,” Cllr Joe Killeen (FF) stated. “We need a view of the whole area when putting the product together so the whole area can benefit”.

Focusing on the broader community beyond the site is “as important,” Cllr Shane Talty (FF) added.

Centre stage...

S E L R e t a il Top Quality Till Rolls (Range of Sizes) Visa Rolls Thermal S cale Labels (Printed or Plain)

Ca l l J i m on 086 2579885

l A CUT ABOVE: Mayor of Clare Cllr. Mary Howard cuts the ribbon to launch Burns Study Centre at Westpark on the Kilrush Road. John Burns provides study and tuition services to secondary school students from all Ennis and Clare schools. Find out more at burnsstudycentre.ie

BUSINESS & RECRUITMENT 35

THURSDAY, JUN 10 2021

WE ARE HIRING Full time Butcher required for busy Ennis shop Must have excellent counter skills.

Must have good customer skills and be able to present food to the highest standard.

Must be able to work on own initiative and be able to work as part of a team.

Must have excellent pre-pack and ready to go food knowledge.

This is not a seasonal position and candidates must be able to work five days over seven.

Apply in writing to Kavanaghs Spar, Lifford rd, Ennis, Co Clare. email Kavanaghspar@gmail.com or phone 0860836111

Volunteer drivers required BROTHERS OF CHARITY SERVICES IRELAND CLARE REGION INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY SERVICES Applications are invited for positions with the Brothers of Charity Services Ireland Clare Region across a number of our services

SOCIAL CARE WORKER (Ref: 25/21) Region Newmarket

Contracts Available Permanent Part-Time

Hours 47/78

Irish Red Cross is supportung the community of Co. Clare providing essential transports to healthcare facilities locally and all over Ireland.

To keep this service operational we would like to welcome new volunteers into a role of driver.

If you are interested in volunteer as a driver for our community services: -A full D1 driving licence -Be at last 25 years of age -Be prepared to undergo Garda Vetting become a member of IRC

SUPPORT WORKERS (Ref: 26/21) Region Shannon

Contracts Available Permanent Part-Time, Specified Purpose, Relief

Hours 40/78, 20/78 0/78

To volunteer as a companion you will need: -Be at least 18 of years of age

Further details available on www.irishjobs.ie Application via www.irishjobs.ie Applicants must, on date of Application, have a Full Clean Driving Licence Please note you may be called forward for interview at short notice SHORTLISTING MAY APPLY ● PANELS MAY BE FORMED ● CANVASSING WILL DISQUALIFY ● EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES EMPLOYER

-Be prepared to undergo Garda Vetting and become a member of IRC For more information about the services or the recruitment process you can contract the Clare Community Officer James Lafferty on (086)8323456 for further Information

THURS, JUN 10, 2021

Buy into Clare

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GRETTALS PETALS

Shannon florist stems out to new location

STUART HOLLY editor@clareecho.ie

F

RANCIS Street in Ennis is springing to life with the welcome addition of a new business, Grettals Petals.

Almost 10 years established as a florist in County Clare, Greta McMahon was inspired during last year’s lockdown to add a new branch to her already bustling business in Brú Na Sionna, Shannon. Greta has experience in making brave business decisions in times of economic uncertainty having first set up her Shannon business in 2012, in the midst of a global recession. That experience, she believes will stand to Grettals Petals in its foray into the county town as the business continues to flourish with a new premises and a growing staff-base.

The business offers a wide range of products including floral arrangements, giftware, candles, plants and even balloons. Greta explains that products celebrating everyday events such as anniversaries, birthdays and ‘thinking of you’ arrangements are among her most popular enquiries while they also service the local area for weddings and funerals.

Greta explains it was very much a group effort amongst her family between ideas and physically preparing the shop for the public over late evenings in Ennis, particularly as tradespeople were not able to work during her set-up phase. Her partner James Lernihan was among the unsung heroes of the project and was “by my side most of the time” while her mother also helped with the painting. Greta also pays tribute to her daughters Ellen (20) and Aoife, a Leaving Cert student, along with her 14-year-old son Diarmuid who she quips is “brilliant at putting together flat pack furniture”.

“During the time of the lockdown last year we had trouble getting flowers at the beginning of it so I actually had a lot of time to think. Really, lockdown brought on the idea. We were at home watching television, having cups of tea in the lovely sunshine and I just said ‘we could do that in another town’. As a Clare native, it was always going to be Ennis if we opened in a second location. We did pros and cons and there were post-it notes with ideas, everybody in the house contributed to it idea-wise in the end.

We then started looking for a premises in

November,” recalls Greta.

Along with family, Greta adds that she is grateful for the contribution of staff members Louise O’Donnell, along with her new recruits Alice Barnes and Aoibhin Feighery.

Having spent much of the last 12 months planning behind closed doors, Grettals Petals Ennis finally opened to the public on May 14 and she has been struck by how much it differs from Shannon, while also being overwhelmed by the response from customers and her new neighbours on Francis Street.

“It’s been good, it’s really different to Shannon,” the Bunratty native reflects. “In Shannon it’s an industrial town, a lot of our customers are working in the industrial estate and might not be from Shannon. The area we are in Shannon, there’s a lot of Polish people and we actually have our signs up in English and Polish on the door. We have a lot of regular customers from the Bunratty, Sixmilebridge, Newmarket-on-Fergus area all the time.

“So it’s quite a different dynamic here in the town. The neighbours have been fantastic, it’s actually obvious that the neighbours are sending people in [to buy from us]. It’s lovely to see that they want to look after us and they want us to stay obviously.”

Greta notes that the website has become a “third shop” for Grettals Petals and while it’s brought a new marketplace to life for the business, nothing replaces seeing customers walking in the door of her two shops. “I love to see people coming in. We really missed that. While you get used to not having people coming in and not having to tidy up, it’s really nice to work in a place that’s ready for people to walk in, it’s clean and inviting and it’s nice to see the faces coming in. Everyone who’s coming in here are all new customers, and hopefully they’ll be repeat customers.”

To get in contact with Grettals Petals, call 085 111 9993, find them on social media or visit the website https://grettalspetals.com/.

P37

THURS, JUN 10, 2021

#buyintoclare

Buy into Clare

SETTLES IN ENNIS on Francis Street

PICTURED: (far left) owner of Grettals Petals Greta McMahon with employee Aoibhin Feighery at the new establishment's entrance on Francis Street; (left) Greta in her new business and (above) Aoibhin and Greta put the final touches on a display table

065 684 5487 8 Francis Street, Ennis, Co. Clare

Carmel’s Health Store Property in Ennis urgently required If you are considering selling please contact us to schedule a Free Market Appraisal

T: 065-6868686 E: info@arthurandlees.ie W: www.arthurandlees.ie Licence No. 001566

Best wishes to Grettals Petals Florist.

Wishing you every success from the team at Arthur & Lees Auctioneers

10 Francis Street, Ennis, Co Clare 065 6892649 carmelshealthstore@gmail.com

THURS, JUN 10, 2021

Buy into Clare

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#buyintoclare

'Comedy' hero award for Lallys CIAN O’BROIN

H

OTEL Woodstock owners Sean and Elaine Lally were recently presented with a new COVID Hero Comedy Award for the comedic joy they brought to the county online throughout the lockdowns.

The official handover took place at the 67 roomed family-owned establishment on Thursday last as Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, Cllr Mary Howard (FG) presented the Clare COVID Hero Comedy Award to the Lallys for their efforts in “making a difference throughout the difficulty of the pandemic.”

The singular award is the only comedy themed accolade, along-

side several other COVID Hero Awards created by Clare County Council that will be presented to individuals throughout the county for their voluntary commitment to bettering lives within the community.

Since taking over four and a half years ago, the Lallys have been vying for “a way to stand out from other hotels that all have a similar strategy.” Looking to separate themselves from traditional corporate weddings, they sought out Dom McInerney, a video editor from Dublin to do a wedding video, who “drew out the lateral comical side of us,” Elaine admitted.

Some of their most viewed and liked online exploits include ‘Wedding Proposal Tutorial’ by Sean (59k views), ‘First Dates Disaster Hotel Woodstock’ (52k views), a video of Sean dancing to the Taoiseach Michael Martin’s an-

Cllr Howard presents Sean and Elaine the award

nouncement on hotels reopening (88k views) and their latest venture ‘See you all June 2nd’ (116k views) where Elaine cracks the whip, showing Sean how to set the place shining as he ruminates on

Photo by Erin Malone

the future prospect of pints with the lads.

Aside from the comical element, the “level of business we have gotten out of it has been unbelievable,” Sean stated. Bookings are flowing

in from people throughout the county, who are not afraid to admit that the only reason being is the value of the online videos. Guests are greeted by the couple at the door as they arrive for a waiting welcome, quickly realising that the on-screen relationship dynamic isn’t too far from the truth, Sean jokes.

“The whole time you walk in, to the time you leave here, it’s the Sean and Elaine show. It was virtually like a new reopening when we took over here, so we had to position ourselves front and centre and build it up. Incrementally, people come back for occasions like weddings and christenings. Our next thing is to do videos of us visiting tourist attractions in Clare, getting out and showing what the county can offer, even if it is humorous.

There is always a message behind everything that we do,” the couple concluded.

RDS showcase a game changer for Creative Clay CIAN O’BROIN

 

 



SHANNON based business Creative Clay provides decorative homeware inspired by the beauty of different landscapes throughout the county.

Started by local Ceramic Design graduate Raquel Walton in 2015, the workshop based in the Ballycasey Craft Centre is a dream come true for the mother of two, who took a redundancy from the Irish Country Pottery Factory in Shannon when in closed its doors due to financial difficulties in 2009.

Spending the subsequent years post-recession as a stay-at-home mother “a great opportunity arose, for something that I always wanted to do since college, run my own pottery studio,” she stated. Key life skills like starting your own business were foreign to her during her time at Limerick School of Art and Design, and so she turned to the Local Enterprise Office (LEO), where she took the Start your Own Business Course, offering key insights into what it would take.

Her love for the craft stems from the versatility of clay. “The magic of transforming a lump of clay into something beautiful, is truly magnificent.” A small shop positioned alongside her creative working space is adorned with decorative 3D homeware such as vases, candle holders and wall pieces. Each work of art is loosely based on the landscape of her home county, with the Burren being her favourite place to depict.

“What separates my work from others is that it is very 3D, colourful and handmade. No two pieces are the same.”

Collecting an international customer base full of appraise was no easy task and Raquel conceded that she couldn’t have done it without the LEO TAME Grant, which provides technical support for micro-exporters, partly funding the investigating and researching of export markets. This grant covers 50 per cent of eligible costs to a max of €2,500. For Raquel, this came in the form of offsetting the costs of an Enterprise Ireland Showcase in the RDS Dublin, in 2019. Before applying, she recognised that to grow the business, she must supply

Raquel Walton at work shops and provide wholesale to bigger outlets.

“Doing the showcase was a massive turnaround for my business. I am now a wholesaler for Shannon Heritage, Bunratty Castle, the Cliffs of Moher and 12 Carraig Donn outlets. I wouldn’t have found these places without the showcase and the financial assistance from the LEO to do so. It was so important for all these potential customers that I had to come and connect with me, allowing the business to grow into what it has,” she affirmed.

THURSDAY, JUN 10 2021

BUY INTO CLARE 39

For more information email localenterprise@leo.clarecoco.ie

40 PROPERTY

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Sport Clare Echo THE

O'Connell expects close battle as Clare fight to stay in Div 1 SEAMUS HAYES

B

EING involved in a relegation play off is the last place any GAA team wants to be and the Clare senior camogie team will confirm that.

They travel to St. Brendan’s Park in Birr on this Saturday (throw in 5p.m.) to face Dublin in the first game in a three way play off to avoid relegation from Division 1 of the Littlewoods Ireland National Camogie League.

The losers of Saturday’s match will have a further chance to hold

on to their place in the top division as they will face Waterford but Clare are not looking past Saturday’s game as a victory here will see them remain in the top division for next season.

“We were very disappointed with our display against Limerick last time out. In fairness Limerick have been doing very well and last week they really put it up to Kilkenny. We have trained hard since we lost to Limerick. We are getting closer to the championship which will be in the middle of July. We don’t want to be relegated. We played Dublin last year and we played really well on the day.

It should be close on Saturday”, commented Clare manager Ger

O’Connell this week.

Ciara Doyle, Roisin McMahon and Aoife Power will all miss Saturday’s tie through injury while the fitness of Niamh O’Dea will be monitored throughout the week to determine if the Kilfenora native will make her first appearance of the year.

Clonlara’s O’Connell told The Clare Echo, “Dublin have a new management team this year headed by Adrian O’Sullivan who was involved with U.L. in their victories in the Ashbourne cup for the last three years.

He will know many of the Clare girls who were part of those successes. Dublin are an experienced outfit”.

10-06-21

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

Cratloe’s Naomi helping to keep Ireland’s World Cup dream alive

by PÁRAIC McMAHON IRELAND’S World Cup qualification hopes remain on hold after their draw with Spain denied a coveted win would win have secured their place in the semi-finals of the EuroHockey Championship for the first time.

Cratloe’s Naomi Carroll helped Ireland to get off to a dream start, fresh from netting the winner in Monday’s encounter with Scotland. The former Clare dual-star tore down the right channel to draw a penalty corner which her Catholic Institute club mate Rói-

sin Upton duly finished off the set piece, a bullet drag-flick into the bottom corner.

Spain were back on level terms on the twelfth minute and the right opportunity failed to come Ireland’s way. They will now contest Pool C where four teams will battle it out for the one remaining World Cup spot from this competition.

It does mean, however, the Green Army will have to play a European qualifier in 2022 if they are to compete on this stage again in 2023.

Below: Cratloe’s Naomi Carroll in action for Ireland

NATIONAL LADIES FOOTBALL LEAGUE DIVISION 2A ROUND 3 Compiled by Eoin Brennan

Lessons learned ahead of Championship Meath 4-18 Clare 0-05 Venue: Páirc Tailteann, Navan MEATH Frees For: 20 (13/7) Wides: 10 (7/3) Scores from Play: 4-13 Spread of Scorers: 8 Top Scorer: Stacey Grimes (2-6 5f) Own Kick-Outs won: 9 from 9 (100%)

CLARE Frees For: 12 (6/6) Wides: 4 (2/2) Scores from Play: 0-3 Spread of Scorers: 3 Top Scorers: Roisin Considine, Chloe Moloney (0-2 each) Own Kick-Outs won: 18 from 32 (56%)

Photo left: Roisin Considine breaks out of defence for Clare.

Photo right: Ciara McCarthy offloads to a teammate. Photographs: Burren Eye Photography

pg 44

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pg 45

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NATIONAL HURLING LEAGUE DIVISION 1 GROUP B ROUND 4 Compiled by Eoin Brennan

‘34 points in Parnell Park is good going’ PLAYER WATCH JOHN CONLON

Clare 0-34 Dublin 2-23 Venue: Parnell Park, Dublin CLARE Frees For: 19 (9/10) Wides: 9 (5/4) Scores from Play: 0-18 Spread of Scorers: 9 Top Scorer: Tony Kelly (0-20 15f 1’65) Own Puck-Outs won: 24 from 33 (73%)

DUBLIN Frees For: 14 (6/8) Wides: 8 (7/1) Scores from Play: 2-14 Spread of Scorers: 8 Top Scorer: Donal Burke (0-13 9f) Own Puck-Outs won: 31 from 43 (72%)

BRIAN LOHAN, CLARE MANAGER

MATTIE KENNY, DUBLIN MANAGER

“WE FELT it was a big game for us and so we were under pressure coming into it and therefore it was good to get a performance and the victory as well.

“I felt we played well overall. To put up 34 points in Parnell Park is good going.

It’s a tough place to go and get a result and while we still have a bit to work on after conceding those two goals before halftime, I thought the lads responded well in the second half.

“We just asked them to keep doing what they were doing because we were playing well in the first half until the goals. But the lads picked it up again after half-time and drove on for the win.

“So we’re happy enough with today but we’ve another big challenge next Saturday again against Kilkenny in Cusack Park.

It’s another test that we’re really looking forward to.”

“IT WAS a really good game of hurling, both sides went at it from the start and I think the intensity levels were up a lot from the start of the league. I think both teams will be happy with their performances, especially as we’re getting ever closer to the championship.

We’re scoring well at the moment but one thing that was frustrating was the amount of frees we gave away this evening. Tony Kelly was knocking them over from all angles, I think he got 16 or 17 points from frees so that’s way too many to give away at this level.

“We’ll have to work on that in training and we’ve another good work out coming next week against Wexford. After that we’ve only two weeks to the championship so going down to Wexford, we’ll be hoping for another good performance to set us up for the start of the Leinster campaign.’

Minutes Played: 70 Possessions: 19 (11/8) Passes Completed: 13 (8/5) Frees Won: 2 (1/1) Frees Lost: 1 Interceptions: 4 Shots: 2 Wides: 2

Tony Kelly loses Danny Sutcliffe

NET

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

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BRING ON THE CATS Clare’s senior hurlers have their final Allianz National League encounter of the year this weekend when they welcome Brian Cody’s Kilkenny to Cusack Park.

Fresh from the impressive win over Dublin, Brian Lohan’s charges will be aiming to put together a third successive win against Kilkenny who have secured top spot in Division 1B. Tony Kelly’s 20 point haul and the return of Colm Galvin to the Clare jersey have given a lift to Banner supporters who are counting down the days to the Munster championship quarter-final with Waterford. Saturday’s tie against the Cats throws in at 3pm.

Rory Hayes maintains total concentration.

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

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Clare defiant ahead of Mayo duel SEAMUS HAYES

C

LARE will be without Jamie Malone as they bid to overcome Mayo and seal their place in Division 1 of the Allianz National Football League.

Mayo have been “the second best team in the country over the past ten years and we couldn’t get a better game than to be playing them at this stage of the season.

It’s the second year in a row that it’s down to one game for us to get promotion to the top division. The ball is in our own court”.

So said Clare football manager Colm Collins earlier this week when looking ahead to Sunday’s Division 2 semi-final clash with Mayo in Cusack Park (throw in at 1.45p.m.).

Podge Collins is in the running for game time on Sunday, having recovered from the hamstring injury which has kept him out of the

league campaign to date, an injury he picked up a week before Clare’s opening round win over Laois.

Defender Eoghan Collins who missed the Cork game due to injury trained with the squad at the weekend and is expected to challenge for game time this week. Incidentally he plays his club football with Ballyhaunis in Mayo.

However Jamie Malone who was injured in the opening minute of that game won’t play any part in this week’s game and neither will Kevin Harnett who suffered injury in the game against Cork last week.

Malone is making steady progress and is expected to be in the running for inclusion in the match day squad for the Munster championship clash with Kerry at the end of June but Harnett isn’t expected to be fit for action for a number of weeks.

Clare welcomed Mayo to Ennis in July 2017 for the championship qualifiers when the Connacht men prevailed 2-14 0-13. “We gifted them a goal and they eventually won by six on that occasion,” re-

called Collins.

Mayo will carry the favourites tag into Sunday’s clash and will bring a very experienced outfit to Cusack Park that will include Lee Keegan, Colm Boyle, Aidan O’Shea, Kevin McLaughlin and Cillian O’Connor to mention but some.

Ciaran Russell, Sean Collins, Cian O’Dea, Cathal O’Connor, Pearse Lillis, David Tubridy and team captain Eoin Cleary have been to the fore in Clare’s march to this stage of the competition.

Having been so close to promotion to Division 1 last year, they will be determined to go that extra step this time. It promises to be a close affair.

Clare boss Collins is delighted that some spectators will be allowed into the game. “It’s good that it is opening up a bit and hopefully the numbers attending will increase in the coming weeks”.

The Clare team will be named after training on Friday night.

Right: Clare manager, Colm Collins.

Photograph: Gerard O’Neill

Competitive start to Cusack Cup SEAMUS HAYES

MILTOWN IN CONTROL AGAINST UNDERSTRENGTH KILMURRY-IBRICKANE St Josephs Miltown 2-21 Kilmurry Ibrickane 0-04 Venue: Pairc Naomh Mhuire, Quilty

A VERY understrength Clare senior football champions outfit, Kilmurry-Ibrickane, suffered a heavy defeat from their arch rivals and near neighbours St Josephs Miltown in round 1 of the Cusack Cup at Quilty this Monday afternoon.

On the evidence of this game, newly appointed team coach, Dublin’s Mick Bohan will be busy over the coming weeks getting the side ready to defend their championship crown.

This is a task he will have to take on without Dermot Coughlan junior who suffered another cruciate knee injury during the week. The

talented forward has been dogged by injury in recent times and this latest set back is certainly a huge blow to Kilmurry-Ibrickane Dublin’s ladies football manager and former Clare senior football coach was present at Monday’s game when Kilmurry’s starting line up included just a handful of their championship winning team in Darren and Shane Hickey, Martin McMahon, David and Daire Sexton.

That said credit must go to Miltown who dominated from the outset on a day when Cormac Murray emerged as the top scorer with 0-14 to his credit. Murray surprisingly withdrew from the Clare senior panel in midweek despite the fact that he had seen action in a number of Clare’s league games this season.

Miltown led 0-9 to 0-2 at half time and they continued to dominate after the break when Micheál Malone and Gordon Kelly were their goalscorers.

Kilmurry-Ibrickane veteran Enda Coughlan saw action when he replaced injured goalkeeper David Sexton.

St Josephs Miltown: Sean O’Brien; Euan Reidy, Seanie Malone, Aidan McGuane; Micheál Murray, Gordon Kelly, Gearoid Curtin; Oisin Looney, Drragh McDonagh; Liam Hehir, Cormac Murray, Kieran Malone; Joe Carmody, Sean Malone, Brian Curtin Subs: Damian Devereaux for M. Murray; Conal Meade for Carmody, Micheal Malone for Hehir Kilmurry-Ibrickane: David Sexton; Michael Comber, Darren Hickey, Ciaran O’Neill; Daire Sexton, Evan Talty, Colin Brigdale; Diarmuid King, Niall Shannon; Andrew Shannon, Shane Hickey, Joseph Campbell; Martin McMahon, Stephen Moloney, Damian Lynch; Subs: Kevin Tubridy, John O’Donoghue, Enda Coughlan.

HEALY’S GOAL DECISIVE Ennistymon 1-11 Éire Óg 0-11 Venue: Ennis

A GOAL from experienced centre

back Lawrence Healy, early in the second half proved the decisive score as Ennistymon got their campaign off to a winning start with victory over Éire Óg at the latter’s venue.

A well contested first half ended with the North Clare side leading by the odd point in seven. Éire Óg levelled just after the resumption but Ennistymon responded with Healy’s goal which completed an impressive move involving Killian Malone, scorer of 0-7 of his side’s total.

Former Corofin (Galway) player Cathal Reilly made his debut for the winners. Philip Talty top scored for Éire Óg with 0-4 Ennistymon: Noel Sexton; Cathal Reilly, Adam Ralph, Sean Rouine; Liam Devitt, Lawrence Healy, Willie Murphy; Mattie Kinch, Pat O’Rourke; Michael Leigh, Killian Malone, Cathal McConigley; Niall Canavan, Joe Dowling, David McNamara. Subs: Danny Rouine for Canavan; Tiernan Hogan for O’Rourke; Diarmuid Fahy for Cathal McConigley; Sean McConigley for Dowling; Oisin Vaughan for Devitt;

SCAN HERE FOR MATCH REPORT

Éire Óg: Nathan Murray; Cathal Darcy, Niall McMahon, Mark Collins; Gearoid Collins, Sean Corry, Ultan Shiels; Éinne O’Connor, Aidan McGrath; Niall O’Donoghue, Conor O’Halloran, Paul Martyn; Paddy O’Malley, Alan O’Neill, Philip Talty. Subs: John Joyce for O’Neill Below: Cormac Murray kicked 0-14 as St Josephs Miltown collected a win.

Photograph: Gerard O’Neill

pg 47

10-06-21

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The Bridge’s Breen Kenny wins in Shannon secures five goal dream

by SEAMUS HAYES

EOIN BRENNAN REIGNING Under 14A champions Sixmilebridge sent out a warning sign to any potential usurpers of the newly revamped Under 15A Hurling Championship following an opening 8-17 to 0-11 victory over Clarecastle on away soil.

Full-forward Eamonn Breen proved in unstoppable form with a remarkable five goal tally while Finn Murphy (2-3), Cillian Murphy (0-6) Callum Phelan 0-4), Niall Liddane (1-0), Ben O’Connell (0-2) and Michael Morey (0-2) were others to star in the scoring stakes on Monday.

Clarecastle, who were crowned Under 14B winners last September, couldn’t have asked for a tougher start to life back in the top flight but did have Paul O’Connell to thank for firing eight of their 11 points.

Beaten 2020 Under 14A finalists [after extra-time] Inagh-Kilnamona also demonstrated their progression with a 4-13 to 1-15 win over Clonlara in Inagh. In a contest that was firmly in the balance throughout, it had to take four timely goals to finally overcome a resilient Clonlara. James Hegarty, who top-scored with 1-7, raided for the only first half goal to edge the hosts 1-6 to 0-8 in front by the recess before second half majors through Gearoid Barry (1-1), Jack Mescall (1-1) and Fred Hegarty (1-3) eventually sealed the opening points.

A much-anticipated derby clash between last year’s Under 14A Semi-Finalists St Joseph’s Doora/Barefield and Éire Óg sur-

prisingly turned out to be a one-sided affair as the Parish romped to a 6-17 to 1-09 triumph. A first half goal blitz through Mark O’Connor (2), Niall Talty and Shane Mescall ensured that the result was beyond doubt by the interval at 4-10 to 1-04. The Townies were best served by key forward Conor Perrill (1-3) and Roan Hickey (04) but simply couldn’t match a persistence Parish side that would flesh out the final margin with late goals through substitutes Micheal Ó Coileáin and Robbie Finn.

In a combined Under 15B and C Championship group stage that houses a whopping 18 teams in two groups, there were significant wins for last year’s Under 14B finalists Kilmaley (4-19 to 3-13 over Tulla), an Eoin Kennedy inspired Ballyea (2-28 to 1-11 v Broadford) and Clooney-Quin (1-34 to 0-06 against Corofin/Ruan) in Group 1.

Michael Power’s impressive 2-7 aided Newmarket-on-Fergus’ opening 2-12 to 1-11 success over O’Calaghan’s Mills/Bodyke while Daire Neville was to the fore for Cratloe in an equally tight 1-18 to 3-08 win over Under 14C winners Feakle/Killanena.

In Group 2, Ben Sweeney’s scoring heroics (1-8) were integral to Scariff-Ogonnelloe’s revenge mission against Ennistymon to shade matters by the minimum at 2-13 to 3-09. A four goal thriller in Shannon eventually went the home side’s way as Wolfe Tones held off Crusheen/Tubber by 2-14 to 2-11.

An early Callum Henchy goal guided the Banner on the path to a 1-16 to 1-08 win over Parteen while a late major proved decisive to Whitegate to see off East Clare neighbours Smith O’Brien’s by 1-13 to 0-07.

Clare golf is celebrating a great win by Woodstock’s Aideen Walsh who captured the Ulster women’s strokeplay title at Royal County Down. She finished eight shots clear of her nearest opponent on Tuesday. Aideen who teaches in Leixlip plays off +2. She devotes a lot of her spare time to coaching junior members at Woodstock.

SHANNON GOLF CLUB: Club professional Artie Pyke’s prize was played for at Shannon last week when there was a big entry over four days.

Shaun Kenny (14) emerged as the winner with 63 and he had a shot to spare over Cian Gleeson (28) with third place filled by Andrew Pearse (20), also with 64.

They were followed by Michael Kilmartin (18) with 66, Paul Keary (8) with 66, Patrick Moroney (10) with 67, Gary O’Brien (21) wth 67, Paul O’Connor(10) with 67 and Cathal McDonagh (26) with 68. Chris Willetts (4) won the gross with 73.

Last week’s 9 hole singles (block 1) was won by Chris Price(8) with 21 points from Jeremiah O’Connor (11) with 20 points with third spot filled by Niall Murphy (12) with 20 points. The block 2 winner was Conor Hayes (12) with 21 points The winners of the men’s modified scramble at Shannon were Toddy Nelson (15), Pat Madden (14), Tony Pearl (20) and Gordon Flewett (25) with 107 points.

In a similar competition last week the winners were Brian Downey (16), Aidan O’Donovan (20), Eoghan (10) and Brendan McAteer (22) with 102 points. In second place with 101 points were Niall McMahon (18), Liam Nolan (13), Joe Sheehan (16) and Rupert Bagnell (21).

In the 9 hole singles Colin Hehir (9) won with 23 points from Paddy Devanney (13) with 22 points and Stephen McGrath (10) with 21 points.

WOODSTOCK GOLF CLUB: Brian Mulcahy (17) won last week’s club singles at Woodstock with 46 points from David McCarthy (7) with 42 and Ryan Enright (8) with 42 The winners of the team of four scramble were Dennis and Mar McCarthy, Martin Lyons and Kieran Browne with 50 nett from Tony Neville, Liam O’Connor, Steve Lahiffe and Brendan Keogh with 51.35. In third spot with 51.65 were John McGrath, Joe Casey, Willie Thompson and Ian Birchal.

The Woodstock seniors outing, a team of three modified scramble, on Tuesday was won by Martin White, Mike Gardiner and Michael Griffin with 52 points.

ENNIS GOLF CLUB: The senior ladies section at Ennis held

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team events over the past two weeks and both events attracted big entries.

On May 21 the winners were Marie Dilleen, Joan Murphy, Rita O’Brien and Mary Lenihan with 61 points and they won by three from Mary Murray, Eileen Corry, Kathleen Pyne and Anne Casey with third spot filled

by Claire Kennelly, Joan Tassie, Anne White and Anne Kelly with 56 points.

On May 28 the winners were Deirdre Molyneaux, Claire Ruane, Anna Marie Darmody and Nuala D’Auria with 50.5 points with second spot filled by Bernie Brooks, Alice D’Arcy, Una Patton and Kathleen Pyne with 55.7 points. In third spot were Phil Butler, Kathleen Frehill, Margaret Flanagan and Anne White.

Last week’s competition was won by Phil Butler, Claire Kennelly and Maureen Maloney with 60 points from Deirdre Molyneaux, Joan Tassie and Claire Ruane with 59 points. In third place, also with 59 points, were Nuala D’Auria, Mary Murray and Anne White.

DOONBEG GOLF CLUB: Maurice Mangan was the winner of last week’s competition at Doonbeg Links with 48 points He won from Donnacadh Nagle on 39 and John McGuire on 38.

In the previous week’s competition the winner was Michael Conway with 40 points from Shane Igoe with 38 and Timmy Killeen with 34.

DROMOLAND GOLF CLUB: Brian Shally was the winner of the June Bank holiday weekend singles at Dromoland with 43 points from Paul English with a similar score, Noel Stapleton was third with 42 followed by Diarmuid O’Connor with 41 and Darren O’Neill with 39.

In the men’s 9 hole mid week competition Hugh O’Neill was the winner with 21 points from Ian Mulready with a similar score while Billy O’Mahony was third with 20 points.

In the ladies 18 hole competition Ann Moloney was the winner from Carola Wixted with Cathy Casey was third. Siobhan Doohan won the 9 hole competition from Niamh McDermott.

This week’s 18 hole competition was won

by Katriona O’Neill with 35 points from Majella Cotgreave, also with 35w points while the 9 hole competition was won by Mary Galvin with 21 points from Carola Wixted with a similar score.

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Double Strike For Buttsys Boys In Shelbourne Park

B

uttsys Bengal was at his very best and sharpest in the third race for the Buttsys Buckos Syndicate of Shannon at Shelbourne Park on Saturday night last.

Trained in Athenry by Gerry Holian the son of Pinpoint Maxi and Killeacle Tammy had a stunning early dash and he made full use of it, charging clear into the bend. Epic News turned second but had no answer to Buttsys Bengal. Maintaining a relentless gallop to the finish, Buttsys Bengal emerged as a brilliant seven-length winner over Epic News in 28.23. It was a really wonderful display and it is clear Buttsys Bengal could be a big player in whatever competitions he is pointed towards in the coming months.

Both Gerry Holian and the Buttsys Buckos Syndicate later completed a superb double with Buttsys Best making full use of the longer run to the turn in the tenth race. Despite a tardy start,

the son of Ballymac Best and Killeacle Tammy flew into the turn to challenge for the lead. He took a bump from Glendalough but it failed to halt his progress. Moving to the front as they entered the back straight, the March ’19 whelp eased right away to put the result beyond doubt. Glendalough continued to give chase throughout but Buttsys Best was too good as he came home three lengths clear in 29.80.

There was just one nights racing at Galway Greyhound Stadium this week with the feature event on Saturday nights card the A2 graded tenth contest which produced a tremendous performance from the unbeaten Brickhill Yanky trained

by Kevin Marmion. The unbeaten son of Droopys Sydney and Rathmeehan May owned by John Collins of Kilmihil and Albert Long of Ballyea really flew the traps and showing superb early pace for his trap five berth grabbed the rails position early as he led his rivals

by three lengths at the bend.

Tracking superbly Brickhill Yanky set sail for home entering the back straight and passing halfway his rivals were chasing a lost cause. From the third bend, Eileen’s Best did narrow the gap slightly but Brickhill Yanky maintained the tempo all the way to the line to score by four and a half lengths in a sizzling 28.73.

The opening A6 graded 525 Yards contest went to the Pat Hogan of Ennis owned Aulton Messi who got the better of a protracted duel with Breaghmore Jim to score by a length and a quarter in 29.77.

Dollard stepping down as chair of Greyhound Racing Ireland GER DOLLARD is to leave his role as Chief Executive Officer of Rásaíocht Con Eireann (RCÉ) / Greyhound Racing Ireland.

A native of Limerick City, Dollard had been CEO since September of 2017 and will depart in September of this year. Prior to this, he served in the post of Deputy Chief Executive of Clare County Council and Director of Economic Development.

Dollard worked with the local authority for 20 years. He began as a finance officer but most notably held the role as a Director of Service where he was responsible for the management of the planning, economic development, tourism, community and enterprise functions of the Council.

He was also town manager of Ennis Town Council and was the first Director of Service for the Ennis Municipal District. While with the Council, Ger played a key role in the promotion and development of internationally famous tourism projects, such as the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience and the UNESCO Burren Geopark. He was involved in the promotion of Loop Head Lighthouse as a visitor attraction and spent four years as a board member of the Clare Youths Service.

Both of his parents whom are decades hail from Co Clare, his father Patrick was a native of Fountain in Ennis while his mother Mary Murphy came from The Hand. He was also related to the late Sean Ó Murchú, the widely-known county council planning officer for many years.

In a statement confirming his departure, Gerard outlined, “I have seen first-hand over the last four years the passion and in-

terest that exists across the country for the sport of greyhound racing. I feel, however, the time is now right to look at a new chapter in my career and take the opportunity to pursue other areas of interest. I look forward to continuing the job of work over the coming months and progressing a number of initiatives before departing RCÉ in September”.

Chairman of Rasaíocht Con Éireann, Frank Nyhan paid tribute to Ger’s contribution during his four-year tenure. “The past four years have been a challenging time for RCÉ and the wider greyhound industry. The Board would like to acknowledge Gerard’s contribution during what has been a period of great change for RCÉ and the industry generally and wish him well for the future.

The Board will immediately take steps to progress the recruitment process for a new CEO”.

Above: Ger Dollard

Headed from traps by Merciful Grace the Donal Duggan of Tulla trained took over at the opening bend where Breaghmore Jim saved ground to go second racing down the back. From halfway the pair had the contest between them but from the crown of the home bend, Aulton Messi was always proving the stronger as she scored for the third time in five starts.

Ennis owner Hogan went on to complete a quick brace in the A5 graded third contest as Aulton Zero trained by Seamus Fahy ran out a comfortable three and a half length winner from Zabriskie in 29.29. The son of Zero Ten and Heathlawn Gold had a dream run along the inner approaching the opening bend where he was closely attended to by Ardera Fifi on his outside. Racing along the back

though Aulton Zero gradually extended his advantage and turning for home he was home for all money as Zabriskie stayed on well for second place.

The chief supporting contest on the card was the concluding A3 graded contest which saw the Michael Costelloe of North Clare owned Pinnacle Rio return to winning ways as he made all the running to defeat the staying on Standing Proud by a length and a half in 29.30. Smartly into his stride in the centre of the track the son of Rio Quatro and Fawn Samantha led Confused Fitzy on the run towards the opening bend but extending his advantage entering the back straight the winner led by three lengths at halfway. Approaching the third bend Standing Around and Jumeirah Carmen started to get slightly closer and although the former stayed on well Pinnacle Rio was not for catching.

Left: Buttsys Bengal

because

THIS RUNS

Find out more about Jackie and other amazing greyhound stories on grireland.ie/thisrunsdeep

SPORT 49

THURSDAY, JUNE 10 2021

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50

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

THURSDAY, JUNE 10 2021

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

Obituaries Acknowledgment

Nihill (1st Anniversary)

In loving memory of Geraldine Nihill (Née Barry), Ros na Rí, Shanaway Road, Ennis and Roslevan.

Beloved wife of Paul, mother of Ruth and David, and sister of Tom, Aidan, and Sinead.

Sadly missed by her family, relatives, friends, neighbours, colleagues, and students.

Your life well lived is a precious gift of strength and grace From someone who made our world a happier and better place Your life well lived is a legacy of pride and pleasure A loving lasting memory our grateful hearts will treasure Those special memories of you will always bring a smile If only we could have you back for just a little while Because you are no longer here will always cause us pain But you’re forever in our hearts and minds until we meet again Sincere thanks to all those who have helped us through this most difficult year. Without you we would be lost.

A private Anniversary Mass will take place at The Church of Our Lady, Roslevan at 3pm on Saturday June 12th, and can be viewed online by visiting www. doorabarefieldparish.ie/ webcam A Memorial Mass will be held at a later date when Covid restrictions permit.

Birthday

Anniversary

What is it?

What is it?

What is it?

The Acknowledgment is the family’s thank you to all those who helped and supported them in any way, before, during and after the funeral. Here is an example of how a family notice, in this case an Acknowledgement, looks like on The Clare Echo

Here is a sample text for a Birthday Memorial which you can edit as appropriate.

Remove any brackets and replace with information relevant to your own situation.

Published to honour the memory of a loved one on the occasion of the anniversary of their death and to give details of any services which will be held in their memory.

Often includes a short verse and personal sentiment.

Anniversary notices can be published every year, to coincide with a loved one’s date of death, to remember their passing. Often a Mass or other gathering will be held to mark this occasion.

We provide a template, as well as a selection of popular verses, to guide you. You can also add up to three photos, to make the announcement all the more personal.

Here is an example of how a family notice, in this case an Anniversary notice, looks on The Clare Echo

Obituaries ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS First 100 words €40 + vat

Between 100-200 words €60 200 + words on request + vat

ANNIVERSARIES Up to 80 words + Photo 80 + words on request BIRTHDAYS Up to 80 words + photo

€20 + vat

€20 + vat

THANKSGIVING THANKSGIVING

Special thanks to Saint’s Anthony, Martin, Francis, Bernadette, Jude, Clare, Therese, Our Lady Lourdes, Our Lady Knock, Our Lady Sacred Heart, Mother Perpetual help for so many favours.

CF

THANKSGIVING. ST. JUDE.

Most Holy Apostle St. Jude faithful servant & friend of Jesus. The Church honours & invokes you universally as the patron of hopeless cases, of matters almost despaired of. Pray for me I am so helpless & alone. Make use I implore you of that particular privilege given to you, to bring speedy help where help is almost despaired of.

Come to my assistance in this great need that I may receive the consolation & help of Heaven

in all my necessities, tribulations & sufferings & that I may praise God with you & all the Elect forever. I promise O Blessed St. Jude to be ever mindful of this great favour to always honour you as my special & powerful patron & to gratefully encourage devotion to you. Amen.

This prayer must be said for 9 consecutive days & published immediately & in 3 days the favour will be granted.

PLANNING

THURSDAY, JUNE 10 2021

51

PLANNING NOTICES CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL DOUGH, SPANISH POINT Take notice that “Spanish Point Golf Club” intends to apply to Clare County Council for planning permission to construct the following a) A golf training room with compressor room and store room at basement level b) A covered area between the existing clubhouse and the proposed training room c) A small extension off the lounge to front of building d) A refuse area with low walls on either side parallel to clubhouse e) Enlarge window to front of building 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 planning department, Aras 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 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 NO.18, GARVILLE COURT, SHANAWAY RD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE Take notice that Frank Doherty intends to apply to the Planning Authority for Planning Permission to make change of use from Holiday Home to Dwelling House 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 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 five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL CARRIGS LANE, KILLALOE, CO CLARE We, DNM Consultancy Services Ltd., are applying to the above authority for permission for the following development on property at Carrigs Lane, Killaloe, Co Clare: Permission for demolition of existing disused agricultural buildings and site clearance, construction of new two storey office building, car park area, connection to necessary services including the reconfiguration of the existing live foul/storm connection, together with all associated

ancillary and incidental site works The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours 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 MAIN STREET, TUAMGRANEY, CO CLARE We, McKernan Woollen Mills Ltd., are applying to the above authority for permission for the following development on property at Main Street, Tuamgraney, Co Clare: Permission for construction of additional workshop space, tea rooms, sanitary facilities, all as an addition to the existing woollen mills together with all associated ancillary and incidental works The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours 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 MAIN STREET, TUAMGRANEY, CO CLARE We, McKernan Woollen Mills Ltd., are applying to the above authority for permission for the following development on property at Main Street, Tuamgraney, Co Clare: Permission for conversion of existing single storey cottage into 3 No. self-contained apartments which will comprise the addition of a second storey to the existing building, the construction of a new 2 storey extension to the rear of the existing building, together with all associated ancillary and incidental works The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours 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 CARROWCORE, OGONNELLOE, CO CLARE I, Pat Lynch, am applying to the above authority for retention permission for the following development on property at Carrowcore, Ogonnelloe, Co Clare: Retention Permission for as-constructed detached agricultural storage building, farm entrance and access roadway together with all associated ancillary and incidental site works The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours 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 SEAPARK, LAHINCH, CO CLARE. V95 F2K7 Take notice that Maire Hanrahan intends to apply for PERMISSION to change the Open Balcony Area, previously granted under planning permission P20/375, to an Enclosed Area accessed from the existing first floor area and all associated site and 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 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 SCHOOL ROAD, ATTYCRISTORA, LAHINCH, CO CLARE. Take notice that John Talty Construction Ltd. intends to apply for PERMISSION to reduce the levels in the area comprising of sites labelled 23-42, from those previously granted under planning permission P20/175, which now form Phases 2 and 3 of the development granted thereunder and all associated site and 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 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 BURREN MEDICAL CENTRE, MARKET STREET, COROFIN. Take notice that Dr. Fergus Glynn intends to apply for RETENTION PERMISSION for the conversion of: 1.

The locum’s apartment to a treatment room and staff kitchen area, 2. The staff canteen to a treatment room and 3. Revisions to the internal layout to accommodate the changes, to that previously granted under planning permission P01/1301 and all associated site and 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 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 BALLYALLA, KILSHANNY, CO CLARE Take notice that Aileen and Stuart Chester intends to apply for RETENTION PERMISSION for: 1. The provision of doors in lieu of windows at first floor level on the eastern gable, previously granted under planning permission P00/1926; 2. The Sunroom addition to the southern elevation; 3. The storage shed in the yard to the west of the main dwelling; 4.

The new entrance to the public road and driveway within the site area and for PERMISSION to provide a balcony to the doors on the eastern gable at first floor level and all associated site and 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 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 STONEHALL, NEWMARKET-ONFERGUS, CO. CLARE. Take Notice that Michael

Flannery and Sinead Lagzdins intend to apply to the planning authority of Clare Co. Council for permission for development at Stonehall, Newmarket-on-Fergus, Co. Clare. The development will consist of the construction of a 64 square meter single story freestanding music/exercise space and study to the rear of the existing dwelling house with alterations to site works and services. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, E20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL ENNIS ROAD, LEAGARD NORTH , MILTOWN MALBAY , CO CLARE Take notice that Derek Considine T/A Derek Considine Car Sales Ltd. intends to apply for PERMISSION to RETAIN The green security fencing as fitted along the property boundaries & for PERMISSION to remove the existing low wall to the front of the property & to provide a footpath along the front boundary in the area between the existing security fencing & the road edge & all associated site and 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 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 CLOONCULLIN, COORACLARE, CO CLARE Take notice that Kenneth & Yvonne Moroney intend to apply to the planning authority for (a) permission to construct an extension to the west side of an existing dwelling house along with alterations to the existing house and (b) retention permission for (1) an extension to the rear of existing dwelling house (2) 2nd site entrance, access road and concrete yard (3) sheds, canopy and playroom attached to the rear of existing garage and (4) pavilion covering a portion of the back yard, along with 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 the planning authority, Clare County Council, Aras Contae an Chlair, New Road, Ennis during its public opening hours and that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application.

CLARE CO. COUNCIL CULLEEN, KILKEEDY, TUBBER, CO. CLARE. Take notice that Gerard and David Conroy intends to apply for permission for development, the development consists of the construction of a slatted cubicle unit, 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 FREAGHAVALEEN, MILTOWN MALBAY I Aiden Fitzgerald B.Eng. MIEI of AF Engineering, Doolin, Co. Clare, 087-9955689, intend to apply to Clare County Council on behalf of Joseph Hehir & Elaine Murray for planning permission at the above address, the development will consist of a dwelling house with a proprietary wastewater treatment system and polishing filter together with ancillary works. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within a period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the planning authority in making a decision on the application.

The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission

52

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53

54

PUZZLEPAGE

THURSDAY, JUNE10 2021

THIS WEEKS PUZZLES JUNE 10

SUDOKU

7/23/2020

1

6

8

1

9

lamb

How to play

mutton

Sudoku is a logic puzzle where you have to populate the grid with numbers. A number can appear only once in each row, column and house. Each puzzle can be solved using logic from the given information and requires no guesswork.

ANSWERS 9

5

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4

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HOW TO PLAY

5

liver

1

6

9

7

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9

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4

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6

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1

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2

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9

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beef

6

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salami

How to play

bacon

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WORD SEARCH

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The Clare Echo Crossword

icult - just

1

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ACROSS

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1.Loose from moorings (6) 4.Academy awards (6) 8.Brownish tint used in photography (5) 9.Frankness (7) 10.Oriental (7) 11.Choose to participate (3,2) 12.Morning snack (9) 17.Supermarket section (5) 19.Welsh port (7) 21.Exceed (7) 22.Intense sorrow (5) 23.Diatribe (6) 24.Story in instalments (6)

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CROSSWORD ANSWERS L

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O'Connell Street, Ennis

(065) 682 0914

#supermacs heart of Ennis

Phone 065 6820914

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QUIZ 55

THURSDAY, JUNE 10 2021

The Clare Echo Quiz THE EARLY DAYS OF JET FM

FM was established in what year?

Paul Ryan, formerly part of Shannon 12001Jet 1998 7 Development’s Regional Marketing team, presented the main current affairs 2004

In what year did Jet FM stop broad2 casting?

2009 2012 2017

Where in Shannon were the Jet FM 3 studios located?

Drumgeely Flats The Goalpost Bar SkyCourt Shopping Centre

programme on Jet FM. What was it called?

Up In The Air Plane Talking Turbulence

A traditional music show fronted by 8 the late Oliver O’Malley shared the same name as a well-known programme of the same genre. What is it?

Céilí House Timpeall an Tí The West Wind

Musical Jewels was presented by An engineer by profession, Paddy 9 who?

4 Halton led the first volunteer commitHeather Halton tee that got a licence for Jet FM. Where

people that came and started the town of Shannon. What was the programme called?

The Pioneers The Originals Taking Off

Margaret O’Connell Ger Loughnane Joe Walsh

Spot the Difference Can you spot the difference? Spot the 7 differences.

The answers will be revealed in next weeks edition.

l An engineer by profession, Paddy Halton led the first volunteer committee that got a licence for Jet FM. Where did he complete his radio training?

ANSWERS

6. Joe Walsh 7. Plane Talking 8. The West Wind 9. Marion Halpin 10.The Pioneers

Which former Shannon school princi6 pal was involved in the station’s first licence application?

An approximate 50 interviews were 10 archived on the Brendan Healy presented show which interviewed the

2004 2012 SkyCourt Shopping Centre Raidió Corca Baiscinn Tony McMahon

5

Which ex town councillor presented the show ‘Cultures & Customs’?

Sean McLoughlin Tony McMahon Cathy McCafferty

Marion Halpin Tina Watkins

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

did he complete his radio training?

Clare FM Raidió Corca Baiscinn RTÉ

Last weeks Answers . S missing on Sports Direct sponsor . 5 missing on number 25 . Knee support different colour . Badge bottom right of Cork jersey missing

. Stripes on Cork jersey missing . POD symbol missing . Stripes on Clare player shorts missing

Clare v Limerick Photo by Burreneye Photography

AND GUTTERING CLARE

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