The Clare Echo 10/08/23

JUBILATION FOR CLARE JUNIORS

‘Jerry’s death won’t be in vain’

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A LISDOONVARNA woman has vowed to continue her fight for safe roads in North Clare after her husband died in a collision

Helga Himmelsbach (inset) became a widow on July 27 when her beloved husband Jerry O’Connor (71), who was travelling on a motorbike, collided with a car on the N67 in Ballyvaughan.

Almost 100 people attended a demonstration last Thursday calling for changes to the road network infrastructure to limit the amount of accidents in North Clare.

Another event takes place this Thursday at 10:30am in Ballyvaughan as the effort to improve the North Clare road network continues. “It is a week I had never thought would come, I can’t get it into my head, this is my way of trying to stay alive and channel my energy so that Jerry’s death would not have been in vain,” Helga told The Clare Echo. She added, “I will do whatever it takes until we get recognition”.

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l Rebecca Crowe, Anne-Marie McGann, Sinead O’Keeffe and Niamh Mulqueen at the victory homecoming for Clare’s All-Ireland winning junior camogie side Photo by John Mangan

Body found in Fanore

A BODY was discovered in Fanore last Wednesday night, writes Páraic McMahon.

An Garda Síochána are still investigating the discovery of the remains of a body which washed up on the shoreline near Fanore last week.

Coast Guard volunteers recovered the body from the scene, it was later removed to University Hospital Limerick where a post-mortem examination was completed.

In a statement, a spokesperson for An Garda Síochána detailed, “Gardaí were alerted to the discovery of a body which had washed ashore in Fanore, Co. Clare on Wednesday 2nd August. The body has been removed to the mortuary in University Hospital Limerick. Enquiries are ongoing to determine the identity of the deceased”.

The body is believed to be that of a tourist who had been last seen by the Cliffs of Moher the Wednesday previous (July 26th).

Drumming up the crowds at Kilmihil Festival of Fun Drummers provide a beat for the Kilmihil Festival of Fun parade Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Minister’s directive on Development Plan ‘spells the end of rural Clare’

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

CLARE’S longest-serving politician has warned that a directive issued by the Junior Minister for Local Government and Planning has signalled “the end of rural Clare”.

Minister of State at the Department of Local Government and Planning, Kieran O’Donnell (FG) issued a directive to Clare County Council this week to reinstate 19 zoning objectives and amend one zoning objective as set out in the Clare County Development Plan 2023-2029 and to also delete a subsection of the plan.

As a result lands in Kilrush, Killaloe, Liscannor, Mullagh, Broadford, Cooraclare and Ballynacally which had been zoned for residential under the County Development Plan have been dezoned.

While backing the considerations of the Office of the Planning Regulator on the report, the Junior Minister has supported their call to delete a subsection in the County Development Plan titled ‘existing accesses onto national secondary roads’. This decisions means that houses are unlikely to be built along the N67, N68 and N85.

In his letter accompanying the direction, the Limerick TD advised that “Clare County Council should take notice that on 3rd day of

August, 2023 I have issued a Direction pursuant to section 31 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended). Pursuant to section 31(17) of the Act this Direction is deemed to have immediate effect and its terms are considered to be incorporated into the plan”.

O’Donnell’s direction is now in effect and

officials in Clare County Council must now take necessary measures to ensure the County Development Plan reflects the changes brought about by the Direction.

In correspondence to elected members of the Council, Director of the Economic Directorate, Carmel Kirby stated, “I appreciate this is not the outcome we had all hoped for, but

it should not deflect from the amount of hard work, dedication and commitment shown by all elected members in making the Clare County Development Plan 2023-2029”.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Cllr PJ Kelly (FF) warned that the directive spelled “the end of rural Clare. Young farmers will not be able to build houses adjacent to N67, the N68 and N85, it is the greater part of West Clare. It is a dictatorship in Dublin, the Junior Minister or his civil servants have backed the planning regulator so a stand will have to be taken. I hope our Oireachtas members will take a stand at this stage otherwise it is the end of rural Clare”.

He continued, “A number of farmers’ sons and farm families have applied for planning but they held them in waiting, they put them on an extension of time waiting for this decision. We now have a dictatorship, the Oireachtas is no longer relevant if this is allowed to continue”. Seven farming families in West Clare alone had been anxiously awaiting the ruling.

Lissycasey based Kelly said farmers are handing over land at a younger age but the beneficiaries of their land will no longer be able to build a house with the same applying for families who get a free site off their parents.

Planning directive a setback for Broadford and Cooraclare’s bid for

BROADFORD and Cooraclare’s inclusion in a pilot scheme for sewage infrastructure in rural villages has been dealt a setback, writes Páraic McMahon

It comes following the directive issued by Minister of State at the Department of Local Government and Planning, Kieran O’Donnell (FG) to Clare County Council to reinstate zoning objectives for Broadford and Cooraclare as set out in the Clare County Development Plan 2023-2029.

Lands in Broadford and Cooraclare had been desig-

nated low density residential in the County Development Plan but this has been overruled by the Junior Minister and the Office of the Planning Regulator. Approximately 25 acres of land in Broadford have been dezoned as a result.

In April 2022, Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, Darragh O’Brien (FF) announced the launch of the €50m scheme for essential sewage infrastructure for rural villages. In September, Broadford and Cooraclare were submitted by Clare County Council in

an official application for inclusion.

Frustration has been expressed by community groups in both areas and by local councillors at the delay at which it has taken the Minister to announce details on the scheme.

On Tuesday afternoon, representatives of the Broadford Community Action Group, councillors, TDs and Senators met at the offices of Clare County Council. A follow up meeting has been set for October 9th.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Mayor of Clare, Cllr

in pilot scheme

Joe Cooney (FG) admitted that the directive issued to the Council this week was a blow for both Broadford and Cooraclare.

“It is a concern and there’s no point saying it is not a concern. We would have preferred if the lands were left zoned and it might have given a better opportunity for getting the go ahead for the pilot wastewater scheme announced by the Government, there has been good work by our Oireachtas members with Minister O’Brien to get the scheme in place but unfortunately there has been long delays in the announcement of the villages approved.

“I’ve been onto the Taoiseach since my election as Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council looking for an update, I’m still waiting for feedback but the latest I’ve been told is we will be given an update in the month of August. I am still hopeful that both Broadford and Cooraclare will be included in the pilot scheme, they are thriving villages and a lot is happening in those areas,” Cllr Cooney added.

O’Callaghans Mills’ Cooney acknowledged that the directive issued to the local authority was a setback to their potential inclusion.

“I’d have my concerns but again it won’t be want or lack of pressure put on the Minister to see if this scheme can

be approved.

“We’ve 50 settlements in our county all dezoned for lack of infrastructure and it’s totally unfair, it’s outside of the control of the people in these villages, it’s very disappointing.

“It is something which should have been addressed going back the years but this is now a matter for Irish Water and there is no point saying otherwise, the Government have put a pilot scheme in place. It is a setback but

I’m still hopeful because very good applications were made, we will have to turn around and do a variation of the County Development Plan if they are approved”.

Clare TD, Cathal Crowe (FF) has said there can be no further delays in issuing a decision on the applications.

“I am confident that Minister Darragh O’Brien will follow through on his promise to deliver a national pilot scheme for unsewered villages in the coming weeks,” he said.

l LAND: Farming families face further restrictions

l UPDATE: Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council Cllr Joe Cooney

Photo by Eamon Ward

‘Policy of not installing speed ramps criticised’ as speeding comes under focus

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

TWO separate Active Travel funding proposals for Tuamgraney were rejected by the National Transport Authority.

Officials within the Killaloe Municipal District last year unsuccessfully applied for the provision of a new footpath on the R463 to link the existing footpath at Tuamgraney Castle to the existing footpath on

the Killaloe and Ogonelloe Road towards Raheen.

Under the second proposal, a new footpath on the R352 to link to the existing footpath on the Bodyke and Tulla Rd to the GAA grounds and Tuamgraney graveyard was planned.

Outgoing acting senior executive engineer in the Killaloe MD, Derek Troy explained, “both proposals sought to provide improved pedestrian facilities across the R463 and R352 creating linkages between the villages and centres of activity or interest and to incorporate traffic calming measures. Unfortunately these proposals along with other similar proposals throughout Killaloe MD were unsuccessful”.

At a motion before the Killaloe MD in July, Cllr Pat Hayes (FF) called for traffic calming measures to be installed in Tuamgraney “with particular emphasis on the approach roads into Tuamgraney village, speeding has become a major problem in these areas for local residents and needs immediate attention”.

As a result of the Active Travel setbacks, the Killaloe MD now plan to “seek funding from planning contributions in order to deliver these projects,” Troy stated.

“I wish to confirm also that the driver feedback speed limit sign on

the Bodyke/Tulla Road which had been malfunctioning has been replaced earlier this year”.

Speaking on the matter, Cllr Hayes stated, “We have Tuamgraney as a key junction into East Clare from all areas, Cllr Burke alluded to Drewsborough the last time it was brought, the volume of people asking me will we do anything about speeding in Tuamgraney and asking how can we slow traffic down”.

Hayes referenced plans of the Limerick and Clare Education Training Board to develop in Scariff and the continued growth of Scariff Community College. “We have signs to slow the traffic but we need to put traffic controls in,” he continued.

“A full review and traffic safety plan needs to be put in place, we are trying to develop as a tourist village linking to Scariff”.

Seconding the motion, Cllr Pat Burke (FG) recalled that he tabled a proposal on speeding in Drewsborough in 2021, “nothing has happened since my motion to slow down traffic”. He referenced Caherconlish as an example to follow, “it is a regional road, as you approach it there is a severe ramp and if you hit it you won’t forget it, there’s nobody speeding in Caherconlish.

Clare County Council seem to have a policy not to install speed

ramps on regional roads, people don’t like them but they do slow you down”.

Feedback signs will not prevent drivers from speeding, Cllr Joe Cooney (FG) maintained but he acknowledged that the raised table between Scariff and Tuamgraney has improved matters.

“I would love to see the footpath finished from the bottom of Raheen into Tuamgraney Castle, I am hoping that will happen in 2023”. He suggested discussing the matter with An Garda Síochána, a view that was endorsed by Cllr Tony O’Brien (FF).

“That is the heavy hand which might not be the one for long term,” Cllr Hayes responded. “I don’t like Limerick City in terms of traffic calming, they are not aesthetic or nice, it is an important issue and we need a plan to put more of the traffic tables that actually slow people down,” he added.

The Maghera native shared his concern with referring all projects and issues to the road design section of the Council, “they are backed up with so many projects”.

Narrowing the carriageway of a road is one of the first methods to slow traffic down thus the focus on footpaths, the engineer told the meeting.

l SAFETY CONCERNS: Cllr Pat Hayes (FF) Photo by John Mangan

Pleas made to Mary Lou to allow Sinn Féin members vote to select candidate

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

TROUBLE is brewing in Sinn Féin with Ballyvaughan’s Noeleen Moran set to be deprived of a chance to contest this week’s General Election selection convention despite receiving nominations from two branches in Clare.

On Thursday (August 10th), Sinn Féin will select its candidate to contest the next General Election in the county. Clare has been designated as a female only candidate area by party headquarters with Sinn Féin to have one candi date in the constituency on the ballot paper.

Both the East Clare Cumann and North Clare Cumann had nominated Noeleen Moran to contest the selection conven tion but this is not sufficient to allow her to go before party members, due to recent rule changes.

As a result, it means Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) will be the only eligible candidate

and there will be no vote at the convention.

In correspondence issued to Mary Lou McDonald (SF), Chairperson of the East Clare Cumann, Harry Duggan and Chairperson of the North Clare Cumann, Philip Fahy appealed for an intervention to allow a vote proceed.

The Clare Echo has obtained a copy of this correspondence to Deputy McDonald. “Two cumainn, North Clare and East Clare, nominated Noeleen Moran to contest the upcoming Clare General election Conven-

“However a recent rule change requires a nominee to get a second nomination from one of a number of party structures. As there is no Comhairle Ceanntair in Clare - only an Executive- a nomination was required from either the Munster Cúige, an Ard Comhairle or the national

officer board. None of those bodies would give Noeleen a nomination. They only gave a nomination to one contestant. So therefore Noeleen cannot contest the convention, and the members in Clare are given no say in the selection of a candidate. No reason was given for the refusal to give a nomination.

“It looks like the selection was predetermined and a candidate is being imposed on us. The optics look very bad, to say the least. Surely a better and fairer way would have been for the nominating bodies to give nominations to any qualifying members who wished to contest the convention and allow the members in Clare to select the candidate of their choice. We are appealing to you to intervene and let the members have their say. The way this has been handled so far has caused anger and resentment and will do long-lasting damage to the party in Clare if not dealt with. We think it is especially important that members should be listened to this time around since the party got it so wrong in Clare in 2020,” the correspondence added.

l APPEAL: Noeleen Moran cannot contest the election and (left) Mary Lou McDonald

‘We have a duty to stand up’ against hate spreading far-right protesters

by Paraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

FAR-RIGHT protesters were met with counter-demonstrations in East Clare over the weekend.

Protests over the stocking of LGBT+ reading material have forced the closure of Cork City Library in recent weeks.

On Saturday, far-right protesters erected an anti-transgender banner across Killaloe library as part of their ongoing campaign. The library which was closed for the weekend had no staff or users present when the banner which read “There are only two genders: male and female” was placed outside the building.

Members of the group camped on Inis Cealtra that night, an act that has been described as illegal by Cathaoirleach of the Killaloe Municipal District, Cllr Tony O’Brien (FF). They also raised their banner on Holy Island which Cllr O’Brien said “desecrated” the protected structure and national monument.

A two hour counter-protest was held in Scariff on Sunday when the group arrived at the Harbour and in the Market Square.

Feakle’s Breandán Baguio was among those involved in the counter-protest. “My view is they have the freedom to assemble, to gather, to

demonstrate, they have free speech to say what they are saying, that is not in question, I vehemently disagree with their message and believe what they’re saying is wrong and trying to demonise non-conforming and queer people, the language they are using is taken from American right-wing people where they have been demonising and othering

queer people. My opinion is there is no place for that in Ireland and we don’t stand for that as a nation and a people”.

He told The Clare Echo, “We have a duty to stand up, the reason I stood up is because these people are claiming to protect children but they are not interested in the impact of their message on LGBT children

who are listening to what they are doing, it is something I can’t stand by and let others do, we had to stand peacefully in opposition to do so that young impressionable LGBT people could see that we were willing to take a stand”.

“I’m 38 now, I grew up in the 1990s with a narrative of homosexuality being evil and bad, I went to the Christian Brothers and my sex education was given by a nun, when she was asked about gay people she said they would do irreparable harm to themselves by having sex with men. To me what I felt as a young person to see that was scared, ashamed”.

According to Breandán, the message pushed outside libraries in recent weeks by this group of protestors can be very damaging. “What they’re preaching is designed to push young people back into the closet, I never had an adult step up for me as a young gay person, even into my late teens and college days we had to stick up for ourselves, I would hope if 14 year old me saw what we did at the weekend that he would have been given extra hope”.

A long-time volunteer with Limerick Pride, the member of East Clare Musical Society said the protestors are trying to bring undo the progress made when the country

passed the Marriage Equality Act in 2015.

“It was difficult coming out at the time, to be honest for me it’s more of a weariness of here we go again, the nation very much resolutely in 2015 said we cherish all our children equally but these people are trying to take us back, we’ve some uptake in hate crimes and queer bashing since these people have got prominence in the media, that is something that I have a concern about. I’m big enough and bold enough to look after myself, I’m happily married but my big concern is for children, they go about speaking about children but no one thinks of the gay or lesbian children who may be listening to them and their existence being debated”.

He claimed that the protestors “are anti-refugee, anti-immigrant, anti-everything and they have been given a resounding tick to go home by people of Limerick, Clare and Galway, they’ve been run out of every town and city they have gone into. What happened in Scariff, there was no political people or elected representative there involved in the counter-demonstration, no politician spoke to us or offered support, this was the community that stood up”.

l QUEER RIGHTS : Breandán Baguio Photo by John Mangan

Solidarity shindig held to welcome asylum seekers to community

A ‘SOLIDARITY Shindig’ was held in Ennis on Saturday to welcome some of the county’s newest residents, writes Páraic McMahon.

Organisers say 60 locals and 60 asylum seekers attended the party at Tracklands Business Park in Ennis which featured a drumming workshop from West Clare musician Brian Fleming, Kizomba dancing and Nepalese music.

The event was supported by Clare Immigrant Support Centre, Clare Leader Forum, Clare Local Development Company, Clare PPN, Clare Solidarity Network, Clare Traveller CDP, CATU Clare, Fáilte Isteach Clare, Mna Ag Gaire, the Movement of Asylum Seekers in Ireland, Quare Clare LGBTQ+ and Women’s Collective Ireland Clare.

Co-ordinator of the Clare Public Participation Network, Sarah Clancy said the event was “a great success and a chance for some of those new to Clare and Ireland to meet and get to know the culture, craic and people of Clare”.

She explained that the party was

“a way of saying ‘Welcome’, but also a great opportunity for people to get to know some of Clare’s newest residents. Those of us involved in the various groups behind this event have enjoyed getting to know many of these new arrivals in recent years. We’re aware that many people in Clare haven’t had

the chance to meet new members of their community”.

Prior to the shindig, residents from Direct Provision centres across the county gathered to meet with representatives of MASI – the Movement of Asylum Seekers in Ireland.

l WORKSHOP: The party in full swing

Kilmihil Festival of Fun reaches new heights

Crowds enjoy

the stilt walker at the Kilmihil Festival of Fun parade

Photo by Gerard O’Neill

Parteen to be ready for CAMHS by March 2024

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

A SITE in Parteen is to be made available for the East Clare Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) and is expected to be ready by the end of March 2023.

East Clare CAMHS are due to move into the site at Inisgile in Parteen at the end of March. The team currently comprises of 10.5 whole time equivalent (WTE) staff with one vacancy for a social worker which is expected to be filled over the coming months.

West Clare CAMHS has a complement of 11.5 WTE staff with one vacancy for a social worker and the other social care worker currently on maternity leave. The HSE are working to fill this social worker post.

Preliminary discussions have also commenced on the reconfiguration of the current Quin Road site to increase clinical space from nine bookable rooms from the current five. Clinics currently take place in a bookable room in the Kilrush primary care centre one day a week.

Officials in the HSE have also confirmed that 10 bookable clinical spaces in the Spindle Unit of St. Joseph’s Hospital in Ennis are coming on stream to be shared with disabilities. A group therapy space is also available. The

arrangements for use of these spaces are currently with the HSE Mid-West Disabilities team and will be finalised in September.

During a recent hour-long meeting with the CEO of the HSE, Bernard Gloster and Clare TD, Violet-Anne Wynne (IND), the provision of accommodation for CAMHS in Clare was among the items discussed.

In a statement to The Clare Echo, Deputy Wynne outlined, “I will be looking for a full-time relocation of the West Clare CAMHS Team into the Kilrush Primary Care Centre or another suitable

Burren Geopark hosts Heritage Week events

l Cliffs of Moher

location that is actually based in West Clare and not the Quin Road.”

She added, “One issue that I was very keen to raise with Mr. Gloster was the provision of accommodation for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services in Clare. This is an issue that I have always championed in the Dáil and one that we have seen come dangerously close to boiling over in recent weeks”.

“I have engaged with many individuals, staff members, service users and their families with respect to CAMHS issues since my election. It is one of my central priorities. I want to welcome the news of this additional accommodation and I am hopeful that it will significantly improve culture and morale within CAMHS in Clare. However, I am not naïve, and I know that accommodation alone is not the issue. It is essential that these vacancies are filled as a matter of priority, and I will continue to liaise with the HSE on same. I am hopeful that the CEO will have these vacancies filled and this expansion work started before our next meeting before Christmas, where I will be focusing on getting West Clare CAMHS relocated to Kilrush on a permanent basis and the creation of a third CAMHS team to serve the Ennis area,” she concluded.

THE geology and history of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark and the pre-historic discoveries made throughout its unique karst landscape will be discussed as part of a series of Heritage Week talks getting underway this weekend, writes Páraic McMahon.

The 21st annual celebration of County Clare’s built, natural and cultural heritage is being coordinated locally by Clare County Council and The Heritage Council, with support from Fáilte Ireland and the Department of Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport & Media.

Carol Gleeson, Manager of the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark, said, “One of the primary objectives of our Heritage Week events is to further increase engagement between the people of Clare and the heritage of the Burren. By doing so, we hope to create a greater sense of awareness and appreciation of the geology and history of one of Ireland’s most unique landscapes.”

Visit www.burrengeopark.ie/heritageweek2023 for the latest on Heritage Week in the Burren and Cliffs of Moher UNESCO Global Geopark.

lViolet-Anne Wynne TD (IND)

Mystery speed cameras appear around North Clare

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

MYSTERY traffic cameras that were erected in parts of North Clare over a two day period have been confirmed to be linked to the Cliffs of Moher 2040 Strategy.

North Clare residents and motorists had been confused after numerous traffic cameras were dotted across the area on Thursday and Friday. The technology is in place as part of traffic surveys for the new strategy on one of the biggest tourist attractions in the country.

Entrances to parking facilities for coaches and cars outside the Cliffs of Moher along with approach roads are among the areas where the cameras have appeared.

Lisdoonvarna based, Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) stated, “Proper and appropriate road safety measures, traffic mobility planning and investment in the host community for the Burren and Cliffs

of Moher UNESCO Global Geo Park and North Clare has been my number one focus for the last four years and I welcome any progress towards this objective”.

He said such progress was “far too long overdue”.

Cllr Shane Talty (FF) who is also a board member of the Cliffs of Moher Centre Ltd explained, “These are repeated surveys and were done the same weekend last year.

“The cameras are to capture car and coach activity and to validate the data collected from the strips.

“My understanding is that they will be taken away next week as soon as the data collection period is over. The surveys are part of the strategy to measure movements”.

lSPEED TRAP: The cameras will be removed as soon as the necessary data is collected

The Town Hall Bistro

Providing a welcoming environment with great value food championing local ingredients.

The Poets Corner Bar

A traditional Irish pub that opens its doors onto the main town street of Ennis. Perfect for a pint, a bite to eat or traditional Irish music session..

The Poet's Corner Bar is a traditional Irish pub that opens its doors onto the main town street of Ennis. Perfect for a pint, a bite to eat or traditional Irish music session.

The Brendan O’Regan Restaurant

Ideal for special occasions. The menu features traditional cuisine with a modern day creative twist.

The Brendan O'Regan Restaurant is ideal for special occasions. The menu features traditional cuisine with a modern day creative twist.

‘Arrogant bus drivers’ fuelling safety concerns Ballyvaughan crash victim come’ when car accident

ROADS were shut off on Thursday morning to mark the first ‘coming together’ of a section of the North Clare community in their efforts to bring about a better and safer road network, writes

Páraic McMahon

Organised by Helga Himmelsbach, a week on from the death of her husband Jerry O’Connor after the motorbike he was driving was hit by a vehicle travelling on the wrong side of the road on the N67 in Ballyvaughan.

Lisdoonvarna woman

Marion O’Loughlin is a neighbour of Helga’s and was among the dozens to take to the main road of Ballyvaughan on Thursday morning.

“The nicest people but the good ones are always taken, he was a gentle giant. Helga has great neighbours, we will all try to help her out and keep Jerry’s memory alive and while we talk about him we will be doing that,” she said of her neighbours.

Safety is diminishing on the roads of North Clare, Marion maintained. “We are on these roads every single day and they are incredibly dangerous, it has got worse.

“The buses especially, the arrogance of the bus drivers, the grass isn’t cut back on the side of the roads, it is

dangerous for tourists and walkers, there is nothing safe on these roads”.

She told The Clare Echo, “We need to have a oneway system for the buses, the next thing is to try and get the Council and even the walking and cycling clubs to try get a footpath as far as the Burren College of Art.

“There’s beautiful loop walks but they are not safe for anybody or any tourist. There is nothing here to keep tourists, it is quite dangerous.

“We have cycle lanes, some places have two cycle lanes but in Clare the road is so busy, it is the main road to the Cliffs of Moher, it really needs some kind of agreement with farmers to get a decent footpath put up for people to let them walk with their children and their dogs safely. We also have a playground across from the church and it is on a dangerous stretch of road”.

Gatherings will continue, the next takes place on Thursday August 10th at 10:30am across from the church in Ballyvaughan. Securing support on a political and local level is vital according to Marion. “If we can get the councillors on board and any of the TDs, walking clubs, cycling clubs and anyone to help”.

by Páraic McMahon @clareecho.ie

ALISDONVARNA woman who became a widow after a French tourist crashed into her beloved husband on his motorbike at the end of July has pledged to continue campaigning until road safety improvements are introduced in North Clare.

Jerry O’Connor (71) was pronounced dead at the scene on Thursday July 27th when the motorbike he was travelling on collided with a car on N67 in Ballyvaughan. The driver of the other vehicle, a French tourist Olivier Le Bozec has appeared before Ennis District Court charged with dangerous driving, Judge Alec Gabbett has remanded Mr Le Bozec on bail and adjourned the case to November 15th.

Under 100 people attended a demonstration on Thursday morning calling for changes to the road network infrastructure to limit the amount of accidents taking place in North Clare. Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG) and Cllr Shane Talty (FF) were the only political representatives to attend the gathering.

Both Jerry and his wife Helga Himmelsbach are the founders of the Burren Wellness Centre. “It is a week I had never thought would come, I can’t get it into my head. This is my way of trying to stay alive and channel my energy so that Jerry’s death would not have been in vain,” Helga said.

She explained, “I am not calling this a protest, I am calling this a coming together in the spirit of Jerry to highlight his senseless passing and to see if very simple constructive changes can be made so that nobody else will killed again locally on these roads”.

On the changes she wishes to see introduced, Helga outlined, “Definitely the speed limits need to be addressed, signage, speed bumps, one of the Gardaí said that every vehicle off the ferry from a European country where you drive on the other side of the road should have marks put on the car so that when they are in doubt they just have to look at the marks to see which side of the road they go on. If there was adequate signage and bumps on the road, maybe that driver would have been jolted into reality and realised where he was and could have made corrections”.

Indeed Jerry once told his wife that they were likely to become the victims of a crash in the Burren, such is the frequency of accidents in the locality. “Jerry said to me ‘Helga the day will come and we will meet a car on the wrong side of the road’, he always told me, ‘if there is a car either going up or going down that you feel comfortable then stay behind that car, at least then it won’t be you’. He didn’t have anyone in front of him, it

was him. We had clients who got hit, it happens so often here”.

Living in Lisdoonvarna since 1989, it was faraway in Hawaii in the year of 2007 that Helga and Jerry first met in what she described as their “Irish Eat Pray Love”. “I was actually in a headon collision outside Kinvara, the driver had fallen asleep at the wheel and had ploughed into me. Luckily I was able to bring my car to a full standstill but I still sustained very bad injuries. I work as a physical therapist which I couldn’t do for a year, I decided to let my place for other therapists and go travelling. Amongst my travels I came to Hawaii where Jerry

was working for another Irish man as a carpenter”.

While Jerry has been described as a keen motorcyclist, Helga said this is not accurate. “He was not a keen motorcyclist, absolutely not. We have one car which we share and are very proud of, we are very much aware of C2 emissions and the dangers of roads. Jerry had a small tiny Yamaha 125 bike which he used when the weather would allow during the summer if I had to use the car and he had to go somewhere. (...) It was very rare like on that Thursday that Jerry would decide to go for a little spin but he wouldn’t be an avid motorcyclist”.

Renewed calls made for safety improvement at dangerous

APPLICATIONS have been made to carry out improvement works at a dangerous Clonlara junction, writes Páraic McMahon.

Cllr Joe Cooney (FG) called on Clare County Council to “explore what safety measures can be put in place at Harold’s Cross, Clonlara and replace the Sixmilebridge sign which has been missing for some time”.

Harold’s Cross has been submitted to the local authority’s road design section for assess-

ment and consideration under the safety improvement works grant for 2024, acting senior executive engineer in the Killaloe Municipal District, Derek Troy confirmed.

He explained, “the reduction of traffic speed through the junction and improvement of the existing sightlines will be the primary objectives however a review of the regional and local traffic prioritisation will also be undertaken. Killaloe MD technical team will review the

existing regional route directional signage and replace signs as required, as soon as possible”.

In October 2005, father of three Shane Browne from Meelick lost his life after the truck he was driving was in collision with a four by four vehicle at Harold’s Cross.

Speaking at the July meeting of the Killaloe MD, Cllr Cooney commented, “it is good that there is concern about this junction, as we’re well aware it is a junction that we need to be

careful on, there have been minor accidents on it in the past”.

He added, “it does need to be reviewed, it is good that it is in road design, hopefully they will come out with a new layout, the sign for Sixmilebridge has been missing for a good stage, people are getting confused”.

Numerous representations have been made about Harold’s Cross, Cllr Tony O’Brien (FF) flagged.

lTRAGEDY: Jerry’s wife Helga Himmelsbach at the scene of the crash

lTRAGEDY: Jerry’s wife Helga Himmelsbach at the scene of the crash Photo by John Mangan

told wife ‘day will would happen

by John Mangan

Roads leading to Ballyvaughan were closed on Thursday morning to facilitate the demonstration. “It is really great that people gathered, there are tens more that weren’t here today that were thinking about it and would have liked to be here. Everybody living in North Clare experiences the traffic non-regulations that we have to live with and knows it is unsustainable, they will support it because it is for the better of everybody, it is

not against tourism, it is for tourism and every local person”.

Community support has been very visible for Helga, “The community has just been amazing, it has been rippling right through beyond the community, I know I don’t have to worry about being alone and what have you”.

Further events are planned, the next takes place again on Thursday August 10th at 10:30am across from the church in Ballyvaughan. A

public meeting is also to be held on Friday August 11th at 7:30pm.

Helga has pledged to continue to flag the matter and has confirmed she contacted the Minister for Transport, Eamon Ryan (GP) expressing her concerns. The absence and failure of Senator Roisin Garvey (GP) to engage with her has been a source of disappointment for Helga. “I will do whatever it takes until we get recognition”.

junction in Clonlara

“I am glad to see it is with road design, it is one of the unique locations where regional road gives way to local road. I welcome the progress made”.

Accidents are commonplace at the junction, Cllr Alan O’Callaghan (FF) stated, “You’d be surprised with the amount of tips that occur there, a lovely vintage car was made a haymaker at that junction”.

Road design will be reviewing the poten-

tial inclusion of Harold’s Cross in the grant scheme in September, Troy advised the meeting. “If there is an attempt to improve sight lines or step back boundaries we will take it into account,” he added.

“Hopefully it won’t be left on long finger and something will be done in 2024,” Cooney concluded.

Photo

Gardaí seek assault film

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

N EYE-OPENING account of the life experiences of Ennis native John Dunne will be shared in a new book.

‘A Life of Taking Chances’, the story of John Dunne will be launched at The Old Ground Hotel in Ennis on Monday, August 28th at 7pm.

Personal reflections from John plus contributions from those who knew him all his life including those that didn’t always see eye to eye with him are included in the book to give readers a balanced view to form their own opinions.

John’s early struggles, his love of music, passion for hurling and dedication to charitable work are key pillars of the book.

From humble beginnings to his difficulties in school due to a speech impediment, John learned from an early age that he had to stand up for himself.

He also learned that sometimes you need to say or do things to get things done.

This black-and-white outlook has landed him in trou-

ble over the years but has also enabled him to succeed where others may have failed.

John Dunne’s life of taking chances explored in new book A

Looking back on his life, John reflects, “There are two types of people in the world: those who will do nothing because of what others may think and those who have a dream and don’t give a ….. This book will tell you which I have been”.

His commitment to charitable work continues with all profits from the book to benefit the Clare 250 Charity which includes the Cancer Day Centre which was set up in memory of his late wife Eileen, who died from cancer. The Lourdes Pilgrimage will also receive a share of the profits.

Copies of the book will be available at the launch for €30, additional copies can be purchased at the cancer centre in Ruan following the launch.

Fundraisers bring in over €22,000 for Motor Neurone Association

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

THE Motor Neurone Association has benefitted by over €22,000 as a result of a series of fundraisers organised in Clare recently.

This was the third year of the fundraiser in Clare and the number of events organised has grown from year one when €5,000 was raised.

Support for the fundraising events has grown enormously with huge numbers volunteering this year.

On behalf of the Motor Neurone Association, Fidelma Rutledge recently accepted a cheque for the total raised from the volunteers led by John Kevin Considine who coordinated the various events in Clare.

A ladies open team of three modified scramble was held at Ennis golf club on June 14 when Sinead Hegarty and Mary McMahon from Ennis and Carola Wixted from Dromoland emerged as

winners from an entry of 75.

The men’s golf classic on June 19 was a huge success with 57 teams (228 players) taking part while 72 businesses provided tee box sponsorship.

The winners of this event were T.J. Scanlan,

Lenny Coote, David Cassidy and Jim Doyle.

Alan Considine, Eoghan McMahon and Martin Madden volunteered for a beard shave which took place on June 17.

A flag day was held at 10 locations across Ennis while collections

were also held at Lahinch, Scariff, Kilrush and Shannon to mention some areas across the county.

Plans are already in motion for next year when it is planned to extend the flag day to more parishes in the county.

GARDAÍ are appealing for witnesses following a serious assault which took place on O’Connell Street in Ennis on the early hours of last Thursday morning (August 3rd), writes Páraic McMahon

A man wearing navy clothing and red runners was seen to be assaulted by a female wearing pink clothing between 12.50am and 1.20am on the morning of Thursday August 3rd. As a result, the male received serious injuries.

Footage of the assault has appeared online and Gardaí in Ennis Garda Station are appealing to members of the public to who may have witnessed the incident or are in possession of such footage to come forward by contacting them on 065 6848100.

Meanwhile, a man has been remanded in custody following a separate attack on a taxi driver in the county town.

On July 31st, just after midnight a taxi driver was sitting in his car in Abbey Street Car Park when a male kicked his door. The driver got out to speak to this male and received a punch to his face.

Serious injuries were sustained to the eye of the driver. On Friday (August 4th), a 40 year old male was arrested and detained under the provisions of Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act at Ennis Garda Station. Later on the same day he was charged with an offence contrary to Section 3 Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act 1997 and brought in custody before a special sitting of Ennis District Court where bail was objected to and he was remanded in custody.

Counsellor to give suicide prevention talk in Ennis

MENTAL health counsellor Sheila McMahon, originally from Newmarket-On-Fergus, made the decision to hold a suicide prevention talk after receiving news that a childhood neighbour had died by suicide, writes Elaine Tubridy

Sheila, who is based in the UK, said “I was told it was the second suicide in the village within a week, and not only that, but two other people’s bodies were recovered from the Cliffs of Moher on the same day having died by suicide. This is horrendous.”

The registered mental health counsellor works to arm people with the skills and tools to help anyone experiencing thoughts of suicide, or suicide intent, as part of her continuing mission to “create positive change” and stop the stigma in the Midlands and wider UK.

“I’d love for people to come along and join me in making a difference. I don’t want to hear stories like the life of someone in their 40s has come to an end. So, let’s make some positive change together,” she added.

Sheila’s talk will explore why people have suicidal thoughts and intent, why there is a stigma and how we can work together to manage it, helpful and unhelpful re-

sponses to suicidal thoughts. How to manage suicidal intent. How to look after our selfcare too, and much more. During this event there will be an opportunity to remember a lost loved one to suicide.

Sheila's background is in standup comedy, so she will combine some of this talk with humour and songs to bring some light-heartedness, creating a relaxed environment where people can learn and create positive change.

Sheila will deliver her suicide prevention talk on Tuesday, August 22, 8pm until 10pm, at Treacys West County Hotel in Ennis. Tickets cost around €20 each including the booking fee, and the talk is also a fundraising event raising money to support mental health charities in Co. Clare. For details and to get tickets visit https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/ suicide-prevention-talk-tickets-677180694687?aff=oddtdtcreator

If you are struggling with your mental health, you can find lots of free videos with tips and advice from Sheila on her YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/c/ SheilasYouTubeChannel. If you need to speak to someone you can call the Samaritans on 116 123.

lROLE MODEL: Author John Dunne reflects on living life his own way

lWORTHY CAUSE: A cheque is presented to the Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association at Ennis Golf Club

in association with

‘We need to do more to promote the good work ongoing in Shannon’

GREATER efforts need to be made to promote work undertaken across the Shannon Municipal District, writes Páraic McMahon.

Such was the view expressed by Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) when she asked that a dedicated space be given on Clare County Council’s website or social media channels to detail the positive work ongoing in the Shannon MD.

She suggested, “the monthly management report is a great way of seeing works so maybe publish that

on social media websites”.

Acting senior executive officer in the Shannon MD, Anne Griffin acknowledged, “effective communications is a key element in delivering important messages and information to our communities and stakeholders within the Municipal District of Shannon. We will continue to strategically and actively use the various channels of communication available to promote the positive work within the MD and build on the strong and open relationships currently in place with the media”.

She recognised the importance of promoting the

positives of the towns, villages and settlements within the Shannon MD.

“The monthly management report is published on a monthly basis on Clare County Council’s website and this will continue to be vigorously promoted with a direct link now being made available from the Shannon MD section of the website”.

“People are finding it hard to navigate what is going on in Shannon and I want to highlight the positive stuff that is happening in the Shannon MD,” Cllr McGettigan explained. Her motion was seconded by Cllr Gerry Flynn (IND).

Town ‘looking a bit tired’ - more investment sought

MORE money needs to be invested in the appearance of Shannon Town which has been described as “looking a bit tired”, writes Páraic McMahon

Speaking at a meeting of the Shannon Municipal District, Cllr Gerry Flynn (IND) appealed for greater investment from the local authority across the county’s second largest town.

He flagged that flooding and the regular presence of surface water across the roads of Shannon is becoming far too common.

“The storm drain infrastructure in Shannon which previously came under the remit of Shannon Development and they maintained it to high degree, over the last 10 years the network hasn’t the capability and that is down to lack of maintenance, it needs more than bringing a suction machine and cleaning out gullies, it is a big town, it is very noticeable when you get a bit of rain that every place is flooding”.

An additional pot of funding is also needed to improve footpaths across Shannon, he maintained.

“Some people have a green agenda but my agen-

da is to keep people safe and we have too many overgrown trees in Shannon.

“If you take down one tree there are four or five replacing it, Shannon is looking a bit tired at the moment and needs new money invested,”

Cllr Flynn remarked.

His views were supported by Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF), “Trees are definitely an issue, some people are complaining it is now interfering with their solar panels, they are so high that it is now interfering with their solar panels”.

lTIDY UP: Residents have compained that overgrown trees are interfering with their solar panels

lCOMMUNICATIONS: Shannon Town Hall Photo by Joe Buckley

Clare Credit Unions supporting families as the new school year approachesas approaches

Credit Union Back to School Tracker 2023 shows significant increase in parents feeling the financial burden of children going back to schoolparents school

CLARE Credit Unions urge families struggling in the Clare region to come and talk to their local credit union.

Findings from the Irish League of Credit Unions annual School Costs survey are released, tracking the costs and impacts of children returning to school. With 72% of parents saying that covering the costs of back to school is a financial burden, and parents spending €1,152 per primary school child and €1,288 per secondary school child, the summer months can be an extremely challenging time of year.

Clare Credit Union are aware that covering the costs of back to school can be a big struggle for parents. We are aware that back to school costs can place huge financial pressure on families. Clare Credit Union want to reassure parents that the Credit Union is here, for anyone who needs help, be it with budgeting for the back-to-

school spend or taking out a loan to help cover the costs. Your local credit union understands that these costs can be financial burden, particularly at a time when other costs of living are so high.

The 2023 survey shows that parents continue to feel a considerable financial burden educating their children. While we have seen a slight reduction in the amount being spent per child on back-toschool costs compared to 2022, general cost of living increases are impacting on households. So while the reduction in back-to-school costs are welcome, it is partly due to parents cutting back on extra-curricular activities and we still have parents getting into debt to cover back-to-school costs.

David Malone, CEO of the Irish League of Credit Unions said: “The average level of debt is €306 with 17% of parents having debts of over €500. We are also seeing the same number of parents getting into debt

compared to last year (29% both years). Thankfully, the message on getting a credit union loan rather than using Payday or money lenders for help with back-to-school expenses seems to be getting through. For back-to-school supplies, 4% will seek a credit union loan and no respondent said they would go to a bank or moneylender. This is the type of community need which Credit Unions meet every day”.

Mr Malone said that more generally, cost of living increases are impacting all households and 40% of parents of school children have cancelled or reduced non-essential services / activities to cover rising costs. More concerning is that 18% of parents of school children are trying to earn additional income and the potential impact this might have on family life.

“13% of parents said they were seeking a loan to cover additional household costs with 2% saying they would go to a money lender to

do so. Again, we would urge anyone needing help with household costs, particularly those who feel they have no option but to use a money lender to talk their local credit union”.

Back to School Costs

The impact of the cost-of-living crisis is very evident this year with a significant increase in the number of parents saying they are under financial pressure with the costs of children returning to school. 72% of parents say that covering the costs of back to school is a financial burden compared to 66% in 2022. Despite this, the amount being spent per child on back-to-school costs has fallen compared to last year and the average debt burden has also fallen.

Despite schools being responsible for informing parents of the Free Primary School Books Scheme nearly half of parents surveyed did not know about it. The scheme re-

Education Loans Available at your local Credit Union ..!

moves the costs of schoolbooks, including workbooks and copybooks for children attending recognized primary schools and special schools.

Cost of Living Impacts

A majority of households (88%) are experiencing cost of living increases. Of parents with school going children, 88% said they have been affected by cost of living increases. Many parents are using savings to cover these costs, while 13% are seeking loans. Slightly more parents (40% compared to 38% of general respondents) are cutting back on activities to save money.

Your back-to-school checklist

STUDENTS could be heading back to the classroom in the next few weeks and parents will want to be sure that they are ready.

The thought of getting prepared to go back to the classroom might seem like a hard task, but it doesn’t have to be. The traditional list is a good place to start, but there are a few items add.

Uniforms

It’s time to check and see if the uniform still fits. This is number one on the school checklist.

Kids grow so quickly and their old school clothes may be just a little too short or tight by now. Parents will also want double check that they have all the items their little one needs.

Mums and dads should be sure they have the full uniform which you can pick up in shops such as the Family Store in Kil-

rush.

School books

A student may already have all the schoolbooks from the start of the academic year, but it’s good to go through and make sure they don’t need more. Notebooks should be labelled for each subject to prevent and mix ups.

Once all the items are together, place them in the child’s school bag to avoid things getting lost. If they are missing anything, remember it may need to be ordered.

Supplies

Kids may already have most of their supplies, but it’s good to check the pencil case. Some of the items they may need are: -pens -pencils -ruler -eraser -calculator Nutrition

This may be the most im-

portant thing on the back to school checklist. Making meals over the last few months may have been simple, but now it’s time to get back to making packed lunches.

Parents should work with the kids to have easy lunches that they will enjoy. Remember to choose healthier options to help fuel children through the day.

Routine

Parents may have already been sticking to a routine throughout the year and it’s a good practice to keep. In the lead up to schools reopening, mums and dads should get pupils to wake up at a set time every morning. Parents will also need to consider their own routines. For example, who will be doing drop off and pick up? What time will they need to be there?

Thought for the week: A heart of gold

RONAN SCULLY

AHEART of gold, out of love for God, longs to do good for others. It seeks God’s blessing more than human approval, and it humbly submits to God’s preservation manual through holy scripture and prayer so that it can go on serving and doing good for others for longer.

Some people are divinely gifted. They possess colossal hearts, capable of uplifting the spirits of even the most battered souls.

LOVE FOR ANOTHER

In one of his most popular songs and a big favourite of mine, Neil Young tells us he is a “searcher” and a “miner” for a “heart of gold.” I love this song, “Heart of Gold,” because it resonates with my own experience. At its core, the song is an exploration of the human condition and the search for meaning and purpose in life.

The lyrics speak of the narrator’s desire to find a heart of gold, a metaphor for the elusive state of spiritual and emotional contentment that we all seek. The song’s famous opening lyrics, “I want to live, I want to give, I’ve been a miner for a heart of gold,” captures this longing for something more.

It is a powerful reminder that we are all searching for something that gives our lives meaning and

John Conroy leads mission to Uganda

purpose. ‘Heart of Gold’ is more than just a song. It is a powerful and moving tribute to the human experience and a reminder of the importance of hope, love, charity and connection. I am also a searcher and miner for a heart of gold for a heart of goodness gifted by God.

Amidst the fleeting fancies of popular culture, there are things worth pursuing, things worth striving after and something definitely worth searching for. A heart of gold, infused by God I think, is one of them. For a heart of gold is a heart weighted with concern for others, a heart invaluable because what it values is something eternal, something in God’s own heart: love for another, for God is love (1 John 4:8).

DEEPLY CHERISH

A heart of gold means different things to different people. For many it represents what we most deeply cherish or long for in life. We may not always be sure exactly what this is, yet we have the sense that we will recognize it when we find it, especially when we are infused by God through his holy word in scripture and in prayer. And so, we keep searching and keep praying. I recently was praying on a pilgrimage and wrote down in my journal these words about having a heart of Gold, an expectation I have personally struggled and fought with across multiple chapters of my life.

Sometimes we want to be the best person we can be, but we end up not at our best. A bit like what

St. Paul said in Romans 7:19-20, “For I do not do the good I want to do, but the evil I do not want to do—this I keep on doing.”

It’s at times like this as my confessore said to me recently that we need to stay with Jesus’ heart on the cross. You see a heart of gold isn’t grasped, it’s granted, and only by God himself.

God, you see, as the heart of personal communion and love, is the giver of gold hearts, the giver of hearts that resemble his own.

If and when you get a heart of gold, I can guarantee you this, it won’t be because you did anything to get it. It will be a result of God doing things inside of you to make you more others-focused, to make you more like himself, to make your heart like His.

So, if you want a heart of gold, start praying and spending valuable time with God and be only all for Jesus and stay with Him through the good times and the bad times.

You can even use Neil Young’s lyrics, “Heavenly Father, keep me searchin’ for a heart of gold.” And He will. But in the end, He’ll be the one who gives it to you. My prayer for us all is that, “May we all continue to seek a heart of gold from the giver of gold hearts, Our Lord.”

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

As your thought for the week, always remember that someone with a heart of gold will love you in sunshine and rain. They will love you in drought and abundance.

They will love you in pain and in comfort. They will love you in sickness and in health. They will love you in laughter and tears. They will love you when things get rough and you don’t know what to do anymore. They will love you and still see the goodness in you even if you hurt them. They will love you even if there’s only silence between you and them. They will love you when the only thing left to say is “sorry.” They will love you even if they have to embrace sudden change. They will love you whatever it takes, whenever you need it without asking for it, how much they have to pay for it, wherever they have to go, and whoever they have to deal with. They will love you until words are never enough to describe how much they’re willing to love you. All because through prayer and searching they have been infused with the gifts of the heart of God. Praying now for everyone that they will let God, create in us all a clean heart and renew a right spirit within us. Refine us, just as one would refine gold. Make our hearts so shiny that when we spend time with others, God’s reflection is undeniable. Please transform our deepest desires until we want you, Jesus more than anything. Amen. Ps...Congrats to everyone involved with the Clare Camogie Junior team in winning this year’s All-Ireland Junior Camogie Final - Yippee!!

Sean-nós ag Féile na Fiacaile!

Sean-nós singing at Feakle Festival!

BÍGÍ liom fhéin agus le ‘’Banríon an tSean-Nóis’’, Sarah Ghriallais, ag an Seisiún Amhránaíochta an Dé Sathairn beag seo ag Féile na Fiacaile i dTigh Moloney ag 3.30pm. Cead isteach in aisce. Chomh maith linn fhéin as Gaeltacht na Gaillimhe beidh amhránaithe eile den scoth i láthair freisin.

Agus roimhe sin uilig, ag 2pm, tá Spraoi le Gaeilge ag eagrú Preab-Ghaeltacht na Féile i dTigh Moloney freisin, mar sin beidh neart

deis agaibh Gaeilge a chleachtadh an deireadh seachtaine seo! Ach ní shin an méid. Le titim na hoíche beidh amhránaithe Ghaeltacht Chiarraí ag tosaigh ar na hamhráin! Beidh

CLARE native John Conroy has been leading a group of seven volunteers on a humanitarian mission to Uganda this summer, where they have been volunteering with two charities concentrating on health and education, writes Elaine Tubridy

“Prior to departure, we have been actively involved in fundraising with a total of €54,000 being raised through a number of fundraising ventures around the county. Whilst in Uganda we presented the sum of money to two charities Sopftpowereducation and Hospice Jinja. The support generosity and goodwill we have received from the people of Clare has been humbling,” John said.

John first began volunteer-

ing in Africa in 2007 and since 2017 he has been joined by over 40 volunteers from around Clare and beyond with a total of €207,000 fundraised for two local charities in Jinja, Uganda.

This time he is joined by Maire Corbett from Clarecastle, Aine Meehan from Newmarket, Michelle McNamara from Scariff, Enda Collins from Killanena, Colm Hayes from Barefield and Donegal woman Aine Heward.

“There are many needs in Uganda with most people struggling to survive on a daily basis, its population is currently at 50 million and by 2050 its expected to increase up to 100 million, the average age is 16 years old making it the second youngest population in the world,” John added.

coirmcheoil in ómós Shéamuis Begley i Séipéal Mhuire ag 7.30pm le hamhránaithe Muireann Nic Amhlaoibh, Éilís Ní Chinnéide agus go leor eile. Agus níos deireanaí aríst ag 10.30pm sa Marquee beidh craic agus ceol le Pádraig Ó Sé agus Pólca 4! Bainigí sás as sin uilig!

Please join myself and fellow Galway Gaeltacht native and The Queen of Sean-nós singing, Sarah Ghriallais, as well as other fantastic singers for a singing session at this year’s Feakle Festival, Saturday the 12th of August, in Moloney’s Pub at 3.30pm. Sarah is the real deal and will make the hairs on your arms stand up straight. Enchanting and otherworldly. Not to be missed!

Imeachtaí/Events:

• INIS - Scéalaíocht do pháistí / Story time i nGaeilge le MacDara, Dé Máirt 15ú Lúnasa / 15th August, Leabharlann De Valera, 3pm, in aisce / FREE

• INIS – CAINT AGUS COMHRÁ, chuile Dé Luain ag 11am sa gCopper Jug, Dé Céadaoin ag 11am in O’Brien’s, oíche Déardaoin sa Temple Gate (8pm), agus Dé Sathairn i nGlór, 11am-12pm

• RAIDIÓ CLARE FM - ‘’Cúl-chaint’’ le Domhnall Ó Loingsigh chuile mhaidin Dé Sathairn, 9am. Seol nuacht chuig: Donal@clare.fm

• INIS - Rith le Ruairí, chuile Dé Máirt ag 7.30pm, ag Local Motion, Sráid Uí Chonaill

• CILL INÍNE BAOITH - Ciorcal Comhrá san XPO, chuile Dé Céadaoin ag 7.30pm

The session will be preceeded by a Pop-up Gaeltacht at 2pm, also in Moloney’s, so there’ll be plenty of opportunities to practice your cúpla focal throughout the afternoon, and evening, as the Kerry Gaeltacht posse take over with a tribute concert

for Séamus Begley at 7.30pm and a show by the fantastic Pólca 4 at 10.30pm. Plenty of craic agus ceol! Hup!

Tuilleadh Eolais/More Information: www.feaklefestival.ie

lSarah Ghriallais

Macalla an Chláir

lHUMANITARIAN: John with and his team have been volunteering in Uganda this summer

Work of Clare Arts Office ‘touches all our lives’

by Stuart Holly editor@clareecho.ie

IN 1986, County Clare broke ground by becoming the first county in Ireland to employ a county arts officer. First established to support the development of fine art, the Clare Arts Office has drastically evolved over the ensuing 37 years. The Arts Office continues to facilitate artists across a wide spectrum of expertise today while also supporting the creativity of people in the community from children to the elderly, and by extension, the community’s health and wellbeing.

The impact of The Clare Arts Office on our county is challenging to convey. The office runs the Riches of Clare series, is in charge of programming at Culturlann Sweeney in Kilkee, is heavily involved in Culture nights in September, and it regularly commissions public realm projects across the county. But perhaps, more importantly, it brings artists and people together to spark creativity amongst the people of Clare and thereby developing the potential in youngsters, or serving as a therapeutic outlet for others facing challenges in their lives.

Clare was the first county in Ireland to have a county arts officer in 1986 when Kay Sheehy - now a producer on RTE Radio – undertook the role. Current Clare Arts Officer Siobhán Mulcahy notes that the role has changed “immeasurably” since then.

“In 2003 there was a new art act which broadened the definition of the arts considerably, so things like circus and spectacle now fall under the arts, things like technology, film, all things that wouldn’t have been thought of as artistic content back in the ‘80s. That has broadened significantly and over the years we’ve worked across all those artforms, like contemporary dance theatre, so it’s been wonderful to see how

it’s broadened out to support artists.”

Siobhán took over the role coinciding with the opening of glór Theatre which “changed the landscape completely” for artists in Clare.

“Around that time, we also looked at supporting artists in terms of developing workspaces for them, we developed studios in the Tulla stables and we have studios in Ennis too. So, the role has developed from just commissioning to create artwork, to supporting artists in the creating of them not just through funding but also providing professional development supports.”

Siobhán tells The Clare Echo that projects such as the Arts & Disability programme, Artists in Schools, Youth Theatre, and the Music and Healthcare projects are having a profound impact on the people of Clare.

“We would be very conscious of the wellbeing impact that creativity has for individuals, whether it’s individuals with additional needs or health needs, and we would devise specific projects to address those needs and to encourage those people to engage in creative activity,” explains Siobhán.

“Certainly in recent times, and unfortunately it may have taken a pandemic to realise it, but the benefits of social interaction that comes from participating in the arts – and also the inherent creativity that lies within us all –is absolutely huge and I think that sometimes people don’t appreciate how important it is for general wellbeing, for mental health, for physical activity as well.

“It actually touches all our lives in ways that may not be very obvious until it’s taken away from us, and often that’s when the importance of it is apparent. It really is something as simple as seeing people enjoy themselves at a variety of festivals that may be happening around the county or some of the artwork that’s going up around

the county, how people engage with them, and how it might visually stimulate them in terms of storytelling or in terms of memories.”

Youth Theatre, which has been running in Clare for almost 20 years, is an excellent example of the Arts Office’s impact on our communities. Children from the age of nine upwards meet twice a week in glór and Siobhán explains. “What’s really lovely about that project is the young people who come, while some of them are interested in acting and developing theatre skills, we also work with them to look at script writing, devising, producing, stage lighting, sound, music. It’s a really holistic approach to all that goes into producing theatre and it’s lovely to see the children rise to that as well. Anyone from age of nine in-

terested in not only theatre, but creativity and expressing themselves are welcome to come along.”

The Clare Arts Officer stresses that music isn’t just for young people and in conjunction with Creative Ireland and their colleagues in Tipperary and Limerick, the Arts Offices delivers a “gorgeous” music and healthcare project to people in residential care centres.

She adds that Creative Ireland has supported a number of wellbeing projects such as Mindfulness and Crafting with the Irish Weavers in Ennistymon; and a wellbeing workshop for women in Kilkee which included yoga and meditation.

“The individual impact of arts on wellbeing can be quite transformative for people and having been in the role

so long, I’ve heard those stories come back not just from the initial impact something might have on someone, but someone saying to you 10 or 15 years later ‘when I was a young person I did this’, or ‘my daughter attended youth theatre and the difference it made at that time in her life’ so it’s obviously very heart-warming to hear that but it also shows that, it can be tough for people to find

a place in this world and the arts can be a way of assisting people to do that and find their way.”

To learn more about the work of the Clare Arts Office or to get involved in a programme, visit www.clarearts. ie.

glór

GREEN CLARE

Damaged and ageing water mains in Clonlara to be replaced

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

AGED and damaged water mains along the main street of Clonlara are to be upgraded. Works are to commence next week and are set to be completed by mid-September with an approximate 300m of damaged water mains to be improved. The has been prioritised as part of Uisce Éireann’s national Leakage Reduction Programme.

Ageing pipes can, over time, significantly impact water quality, leakage levels, and pressure. Replacing the pipes will greatly reduce the levels of leakage and bursts resulting in service interruptions affecting customers and local businesses.

Gerry O’Donnell of Uisce Éireann explained, “Securing Clare’s water supply remains a priority for Uisce Éireann and it is great to see this work commencing which will reduce the risk of outages from bursts now and into the future”.

He said the section of water mains were prioritised for investment and replacement due to their age and deteriorating condition which had resulted in supply interruptions to homes and businesses.

“When completed, this project will improve water quality, significantly reduce leakage and provide local residents with a sustainable and more reliable water supply for generations to come”.

Shareridge Ltd will carry out the works on behalf of Uisce Éireann, they are expected to be completed by mid-September.

Areas of work will be limited to short sections to minimise impact on customers.

Traffic management will be in place to allow the works to be delivered safely and efficiently.

Local and emergency traffic will be maintained at all times.

Clare TD, Cathal Crowe (FF) said it was “very welcome work and will be of significant relief to a great many residents in Clonlara”.

He added, “Clonlara village has grown quite over the past two decades – particularly with the development of the Church Fields housing estate and new social housing developments adjacent to Derryvinna but the water infrastructure hasn’t been upgraded to meet these new developments, and indeed developments that’ll hopefully happen into the future.

“Approximately 10 years ago, there was a major water upgrade from O’Connor’s Cross, Parteen to Decourcy’s Bridge, Clonlara.

“This was to deal with frequent outages experienced by people in Clonlara but the works now planned will help to further improve supply and deal with any outage problems people in the village have,” Crowe stated.

Deputy Crowe said he is engaging with Uisce Éireann to try get the old asbestos pipes between Larkin’s Cross, and O’Con-

nor’s Cross in Parteen replaced.

“Residents here have endured more than a dozen water outages in the past 12 months. Also, I’ve asked them to upgrade water pipes in the Kildoorus area of Clonlara and the nearby village of Bridgetown.

“Residents here have ongoing issues with water pressure and when there are outages in the locality it can often take them several days to have their own domestic supplies replenished”.

Art jam brings life to Gort

A FIRST ever mural art jam was held in Gort during the August Bank Holiday weekend, writes Páraic McMahon.

Commissioned by Gort Tidy Towns, the event saw a select crew of local artists paint along Kelly’s Lane (Courtney’s Lane) in Gort on the back of garden walls, brightening up a dull grey corner of the town.

Esther Blodau, Victoria De Angelis, Flor, Kept, Noreen Scully, and Brian Twomey were the artists that played their part in brightening up Gort.

Gort Tidy Towns aims to rejuvenate neglected parts of our town with colour, fresh paint, and vibrant creative expression. The commitment from property owners is for one year, with the aim of painting some again

next year and allowing the project to grow. Hours were variable, the artists keeping different schedules and dodging the rain. As opposed to a single collaborative mural, each wall was assigned to one artist, allowing for a wider variety of styles and ideas. Members of the public dropped by at regular intervals over the weekend to see the artists at work and to applaud their endeavours.

Bernice Forde Carolan of Gort Tidy Towns told The Clare Echo that they were sincerely grateful to all of the businesses and homes that have given use of their walls, especially PJ Hawkins, and to TJ O’Mahony for paints, and to Gillane’s Feeds for their donations, and of course to all of the artists.

lArtists painted individual murals, allowing for a wide variety of styles

Quin Tidy Towns plan better future

QUIN Tidy Towns will be holding a clean-up on Monday evening, writes Páraic McMahon

Assembling at 6pm, members of Quin Tidy Towns plan to tidy up the village and are encouraging willing volunteers to lend a hand.

“Bring the children and the teens if you can and let's showcase Quin Village at its very best. We'll meet at the hall and supplies will be available there,” said Colette Colleran of Quin Tidy Towns.

A three year plan has been developed by Quin Village Tidy Towns with a view to improving the social, historical, cultural lived experiences of all living in and around the environs of Quin village.

An online fundraiser has been launched to try meet the funding shortfall for the redevelopment of the Picnic/Fountain Area and for the installation of two murals and three sculptures in the village. To date, over €5,000 has been raised.

Step into the past this Heritage Week

THE cultural, built and natural heritage of Craggaunowen, Bunratty Castle & Folk Park and County Clare will be celebrated during Heritage Week 2023, which gets underway this Saturday (August 12th) and continues until August 20th, writes Páraic

McMahon

‘Living Heritage’ is the theme of this year's programme of events during which members of the public will be invited to the popular visitor attractions of Bunratty and Craggaunowen to explore the traditions and practices, knowledge and skills passed down through generations.

At Bunratty, the 2023 Summer Carnival on August 12-13th will feature old style carnival and traditional novelty games like smash a can, coconut shy and giant checkers, as well as train rides through the Folk Park. Animators will showcase life in times past through storytelling and roleplaying as visitors learn about life as a doctor in early 20th century Ireland, a Royal Irish Constabulary (RIC) Policeman, a musician in the 1900s and as a blacksmith. Meanwhile, there will be a traditional thatching demonstration, woodworking with TikTok sensation Eoin Reardon, talks on animal husbandry, Sean Nós singing, step dancing, a tour of the 19th century Bunratty House, and an introduction to the Regency Plant Collection at the Victorian Walled Garden.

Craggaunowen will host reenactors and tradespeople from across Clare who will demonstrate the crafts and traditions of old, including spinning and weaving, bread and

butter making, candle making, and wool dyeing, while stories of mythology and the history of the Ogham stones will be recounted. The green in front of the 16th century Craggaunowen Castle will host The Age of the Vikings, a celebration of Viking culture, crafts, customs and creativity.

Cllr. Joe Cooney, Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council, commented, “The Heritage Council first began coordinating the week in 2005 and since then it has gone from strength to strength with over 1000 events and projects organised across the country each year. The initiative serves as a reminder to the people of Clare of the wonderful heritage and history that surrounds them. The events at Craggaunowen and Bunratty Castle & Folk Park are always a highlight as they allow visitors to step back in time.”

Visit www.craggaunowen.ie and www. bunrattycastle.ie for booking details and for new events added to the Heritage Week programme at Craggaunowen and Bunratty.

I.C.T. JOB OPENINGS IN COUNTY CLARE

Clare Tourism DAC is a subsidiary company of Clare County Council that will oversee the management, development, and promotion of a portfolio of signature visitor attraction sites throughout County Clare. Clare Tourism is now seeking to hire the following experienced professionals with skills in I.C.T. systems.

Assistant ICT System Manager

Full Time Permanent

The position of Assistant ICT Systems Manager is an exciting opportunity for an individual interested in playing a significant role within Clare Tourism. The successful applicant will report to the Project Lead with Clare Tourism and provide ICT support to Clare County Council tourism sites and support digital programme. The Assistant ICT systems Manager will provide line management for the ICT Team and manage third-party contractors.

HOW TO APPLY / FURTHER INFORMATION:

I.S Technical Officer

Full Time Permanent

The position of I.S Technical Officer is an exciting opportunity. The successful applicant will report to the Assistant I.C.T Systems Manager and provide ICT support to Clare County Council tourism sites and support digital programme.

If you are interested in applying, or want to know more about an individual position, contact Katie in The HR Suite on 066 7102887 or email your CV to jobs@thehrsuite.com

Closing date for applications Wed, 30th August 2023 at 5pm.

l Bunratty Castle and Folk Park

Half-time team talk set tone for victory

ALL-IRELAND JUNIOR CAMOGIE FINAL

Clare 3-07 Tipperary 1-08

Venue: Croke Park, Dublin

Compiled by Páraic McMahon

STORY OF THE GAME

CLARE

Frees for: 20 (14/6)

Wides: 6 (4/2)

Spread of scorers: 5

Scores from play: 3-04

Top scorer: Sarah Loughnane (1-03 3f)

Bookings: E Casey (1)

Own puckouts won: 10 from 15 (67%)

TIPPERARY

Frees for: 13 (7/6)

Wides: 6 (4/2)

Spread of scorers: 5

Scores from play: 1-05

Top scorer: Jean Kelly (0-04

3f)

Bookings: C Ryan (20)

Red Card: C Brennan (42)

Own puckouts won: 11 from 16 (69%)

REFEREE: Brendan Heaney (Meath)

AT HALF-TIME in Croke Park, the message from Clare’s junior camogie panel was simply, they were not leaving Dublin without the Kathleen Mills Cup.

Freetaker Sarah Loughnane finished as top scorer for Clare as they recorded a 3-07 1-08 win over Tipperary on Sunday in Croke Park.

An emotional Loughnane held back tears when reflecting on what their breakthrough meant. “It’s absolutely unreal, it’s emotion here now talking after the game, it’s everything you

dream of, playing in Croke Park and to go out there and win behind that team is absolutely unreal, it’s a feeling that I don’t know if anything in life will ever top it”. With 16 minutes on the clock, Clare had yet to score while they had conceded 1-03 to Tipperary. A chance of another Tipp goal went abegging with corner back Sinead Hogg making a vital block, it prompted a long-distance run from Jennifer Daly, the sliotar ended up in Sarah’s hands and she planted it in the back of the net to get Clare off the mark.

Once the green flag was raised, Sarah knew there would be no stopping Clare. “This team, we’ve known we can go back six or seven points and we will creep back, it happened in the semi-final against Armagh when we were six points down with ten minutes to go and we came back to win by two points.

"We know the belief is within the team and that is massive, to be down that far and to know we could creep back, the minute I got the goal I knew we would drive

on and that Clare had arrived in Croke Park”. By the interval, they were level with Michelle McMahon equalising on the stroke of half-time. Inside in the dressing room, Sarah said the message was simple, “I don’t know what happened in the first half that we weren’t really blazing at all, we looked each other in the eye at half time and said 'let’s put the foot down because we’re not leaving it behind us' and that is what we did, two goals later and here we are as All-Ireland champions”.

On the restart, they struck for two goals inside the first seven minutes via Caoimhe Cahill and Labhaoise O’Donnell. “We’ve been head down going for goal the whole time at training and even at matches, we didn’t get any goal against Armagh and we knew we had to get goals to win the game, we took our goal chances when they were on, I’m delighted for Caoimhe Cahill as well, what a player, she’s playing in the football next weekend, she is a credit to play alongside and is everything you want in a player, you can have a chat with her, we really link up well together so it is a pity we’re not with the same club!”.

Sixmilebridge’s Loughnane confessed that it wasn’t until she was substituted with fifty five minutes played that she became aware Tipperary’s Ciara Brennan was sent off twelve minutes previously. “When I came off with five minutes to go, I asked Grainne Travers beside me if they had a player sent off because of the red beside Tipperary on the big screen, I hadn’t noticed, it passed me by”.

A past pupil of St Caimin’s

Community School in Shannon, Sarah admitted that the task of hitting the frees was a nervous one, she missed the first two placed balls but with finish the encounter by hitting three frees. “I was quite nervous, the first two didn’t go my way as Sinead Hogg said ‘if you miss one or two, we know you’ll be on form after that’, I was nervous enough and delighted to get my shot to take over the frees”.

Celebrations will be enjoyed, she confirmed. “It’s going to be unbelievable, it won’t just be tonight, it’ll be the week or a month to celebrate, I’m a proud Bridge woman and very delighted for my family”.

Dreams become reality for captain O'Keeffe

by Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

SINEAD O’KEEFFE, Clare’s All-Ireland winning Junior camogie captain is confident their success will lead to more Croke Park days out. When delivering a fine speech from the steps of the Hogan Stand, Sinead referenced the success of Clare’s U16 All-Ireland winning side driving them on for glory.

Moments after leading Clare to their fifth Junior All-Ireland, Sinead was already looking to the future. “We want to push on for the next five, 10 or 15 years, we want more days out in Croke Park. We don’t get them very often but we know we have the standard and the quality players in the county, that was shown by the U16s who set the bar for us last weekend getting over the line in the U16 final. They are the stepping stone to go forward and step into the junior and senior teams, there’s so much talent that we want these days out for many years”.

Alongside Broadford’s Niamh Mulqueen, Sinead had been part of the Clare Junior side who suffered semi-final defeats to Kerry (2019) and Antrim (2022). It made the magnitude of their breakthrough all the sweeter. “Me and Niamh Mulqueen have been struggling on this team for a long time trying to get over the line and she was right beside me, as soon as that whistle went the two of us started bawling crying, that is what it means, that is how special it us and how much it means to us to get over the line. We dream of these days, we made it a bit difficult for ourselves and maybe panicked our supporters a little bit”.

She added, “We dream of these days in Croke Park, we said during the week that we dream of them but we also have to get over the line, we’ve done that so we will make the most of the next week”.

Given the manner in which they bounced back in the semi-final win over Armagh with points from Sarah Loughnane and Grace Carmody securing their victory on that occa-

sion, Sinead stated that the previous tests of their self-belief ensured they stayed composed after a poor opening quarter which saw them fail to score and Tipperary dominated with 1-02 on the board. By halftime, the teams were level.

“We did the same thing in the semi-final, at half-time we were quite relaxed because we knew we had a second half performance,

that hasn’t just come from the two years under John Carmody’s management but it’s been building for a long time, players involved have brought experience and hurt from losing semi-finals, we also have the younger players like Caoimhe Cahill who stood up at 18 years of age with a player of the match performance, that is phenomenal and it is why we got over the line, all 30

people on the panel”.

Part of a formidable half-back line which included Newmarket-on-Fergus duo Laura McMahon and Ellen Casey, the tackles in this sector were invaluable when Clare exerted their authority on proceedings in the third quarter. “It’s great to have Ellen bringing the age-gap down for us. Laura Mc brings the experience and Ellen has so much experience from Newmarket-on-Fergus and UL, we do work well together and stay level headed most of the time”.

Kilmaley’s O’Keeffe added, “We set our targets for our tackles per game, we had a really high tackle count and that is a result of not meeting it against Armagh, it comes from every player on the field. Caoimhe Cahill tracked every ball but our backs worked really hard in not giving away the ball, we knew the threat, pace and power Tipp had which showed in the first 20 minutes when they drove at us, it was really lucky that we had the strength in our defence to work from that”.

A holder of multiple senior ladies football championships with Banner Ladies, Sinead was confident Clare would not be out of their depth when it comes to the intermediate grade in 2024. “We played some intermediate teams this year and we were quite close to them even the likes of Galway who won the intermediate championship last year, we played them in challenge games and maybe you could say that challenge games aren’t representative, we really put it up to Kerry in the Munster semi-final, that is where we want to be at, we want to be pushing players onto the senior panel”.

l Goal scorer, Caoimhe Cahill runs at the Tipperary defence

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

l Clare players celebrate their side’s memorable All-Ireland victory after the final whistle Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Heroes welcome for All-Ireland champs

Injury rules out Roche for final

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

LIZZY ROCHE will be the only Clare player to miss out on Sunday’s TG4 All-Ireland intermediate ladies football final.

Burren Gaels attacker Lizzy had been a first choice starter on the Clare team, lining out in the full-forward line for all three of their group encounters in the championship and had hit 0-05 from play in these three outings.

Forced off with 27 minutes gone in final group game versus Tyrone at the end of June with an injury that was later confirmed to be an anterior cruciate ligament injury, Lizzy will not get the opportunity to take to the field for All-Ireland final day.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Wayne Freeman confirmed that the Carron

Harvey sisters: We're going to do it for Dad

native was the only player that they would be without for the final against Kildare.

“Lizzie is the only one, I’m devastated for her, she has been great for us, I was really raging for her when it happened, she was even unlucky with how it happened, she scored doing it and to be fair to her in the opening twenty minutes of the Tyrone game, she was one of our better players and really driving at them hard, tackling and turning the ball over, I felt bad for her but we still have a full thirty.

“We’ve no injury concerns at the moment and please God it stays that way. We’ve a few niggles and knocks like every team, if you don’t have niggles or knocks at this stage of the year then I think you’re doing something wrong but we’re ready to go”.

by

FEW links remain between the Clare ladies football team which contested the 2016 All-Ireland and this year’s set-up - but as ever the involvement of the Harveys is to the fore.

Back in 2016, Caoimhe Harvey was the youngest player to line out in Croke Park aged 17 when Clare lost to Kildare by a single point. She was introduced as a half-time substitute for her sister Grainne who will line out at corner back this weekend while Shauna wore number four in 2016 but is not expected to get a starting role on Sunday.

Seven years on, Caoimhe is instead the one that will lead them into battle as captain. “I’ve done a 360 since to be honest, I know I’m not the oldest now but I’ve gone from being the youngest to the captain.”

Caoimhe admits she has "huge regrets" around her 2016 performance, something she is hoping to rectify this weekend. “When I came on I was so poor and I let the day get to me, I would look back and said if I ever got back how I’d change it but I didn’t think it would take seven years, I don’t think anybody did to be honest."

After such a wait, Grainne (27) is determined to make their return to Croke Park count. “This year it was just belief, we didn’t think about it and just took it game by game, it is amazing to think that we are there. As one of the experienced players now I just want to win.

"I’m so ready for it, we will be nervous, we’ve won nothing so we have to get a win”.

For Shauna the turning point this year was the manner in which they fought back to secure a draw with Tyrone which also gave them top spot in the group and a home quarter-final. “It was tough going and the girls showed real character,

from then on, I’ve had no doubt that we can go all the way”.

In November 2019, the Harvey family from Querrin were rocked by the sudden death of their father Kieran who at the time was Chairman of Clare LGFA and was a hugely influential figure for the sport. He also managed girls at club level with West Clare Gaels.

No more was his impact more visible than on the exploits of his four daughters. “It is a bit hard at times because in 2016 he was so involved, then this year he is not here but we are going to do it for him,” Grainne admits.

When preparing for the big and small days, their father is at the forefront of their minds, Caoimhe said. “Everyone looks at the big days but if it’s a small day and we’re playing a challenge game with West Clare Gaels we think about him as much, we’d think about what we’d be told going out the door, I’d be told not to be going down the wings with the ball or the centre, Shauna would be told not to foul,

we have all these things and memories that come into our heads, the big days are extremely tough but so are the little ones, we just plough on and keep his memory alive”.

Older sister Ciara has taken over when giving the nuggets of advice. Shauna quipped, “As Seán Lenihan said ‘the loud one isn’t here’. Grainne is looking for a muzzle for the club championships”. Grainne remains living in Querrin with their mother Mary while Caoimhe (Miltown Malbay) and Shauna (Cooraclare) are slightly further afield.

Another big change for the Harvey girls has been the arrival of Caoimhe’s son, Rían on August 13 of last year, he’ll celebrate his first birthday while supporting his mother in Croke Park alongside her partner, Cormac Murray a prominent footballer with St Joseph’s Miltown.

Choosing a godmother wasn’t the most difficult of tasks as Shauna pointed out, “Ciara has two children which narrowed it for her”.

Caoimhe confessed, “Ciara was left which made it eas-

ier! It’s great to be able to bring Rían up to Croke Park, for me. I might never play there again so I’ll definitely savour every moment”.

Rían won’t get caught up in the build-up anytime soon with the younger Harvey generation tough acts to please according to Grainne, “We could get barely get Ciara’s boy Bobby to put on his jersey the last day when TG4 came on, he was saying no”.

Although Caoimhe (24) works in AIB’s Kilrush branch, she has rarely penned as many signatures as when giving autographs for supporters at their recent open training session in Cusack Park. Both Shauna and Grainne are in agreement as to which Harvey supporters could identify as the scariest, “The one in the centre back position,” teacher Shauna (28) said while looking in the direction of the captain. The importance of such an event was acknowledged by Grainne, “It’s great to see all the young girls and it’s mad to think that we are their idols as ladies footballers”.

Of the different captains she has played with in the county colours, Grainne who works for the Brothers of Charity in Ennis was complimentary towards her younger sibling. “She is no different, even though I’m her sister she treats me as one of the other players, she’ll tell me as much as I should know. I’ll respect her and I think she is brilliant and drives us on, it is great to have her as captain”.

Focusing on what she says does not form part of Caoimhe’s approach, she admitted. “I don’t have much of a filter, it’s not who I am, the girls have understood, I was captain in 2021 too, now it’s about getting over the line and that is what I would reiterate constantly, enjoy the build-up but get the work done because at the end of the day we have won nothing yet”.

l Lizzy Roche

Burren Eye Photography

l The Harvey sisters, Grainne, Caoimhe and Shauna Burren Eye Photography

Páraic McMahon paraic@clareecho.ie

It is the girls' turn this year, says All-Ireland finalist Griffin

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

WING-BACK roles are likely to be occupied by Lousie Griffin and Orla Devitt when Clare take to the field in Sunday’s All-Ireland intermediate ladies football final.

A more balanced squad has led them to the a first All-Ireland decider in seven years, according to Louise. “We lost an awful lot of girls last year from the starting team, this year we had no pressure on us and it came naturally to us. The lads [management] have been excellent coming from Kildare and have brought fresh ideas which have really worked for us. We have no fear of Kildare, we have met them twice and there has been nothing in it”.

Orla who joined the panel in 2016 will relish the chance to line out in Croke Park, “Only the Harveys and Laurie have played in the All-Ireland final in Croke Park so for the rest of us it is a new experience, I can’t wait to get up and have a run about in Croke Park”.

All-Ireland final days are to be treasured, Griffin observed. “With the camogie getting up there too it

is the turn of the girls this year, the lads have had great success over the years so it is a great to have a feel for what it is like, it’s not often we get these days so we’ll cherish them".

While Devitt may have soldiered on the panel during unsuccessful campaigns, Louise’s timing has been ideal. She rejoined the squad last year and she hasn’t looked back since by nailing a starting position.

“I tore my achilles in 2020 and that put a bit of perspective on it, I thought I wouldn’t get to play again but I did a lot of rehab and got back in shape so I got the call-up”.

A PE and Irish teacher at St Joseph’s in Tulla, Louise admitted that the school days can make things easier when preparing for matches as opposed to the holidays. “Personally I prefer a bit of structure in the days leading into games by having Monday to Friday working and then knowing you have a game whereas during the week you can spend too much time thinking about it and not knowing really. It is nice to have a break too because you’re fresher going into games”.

Orla, who recently completed a

PME in Belfast, is on the lookout for a post as a home economics teacher. Her studies at Ulster University have ensured that she has clocked up more miles than most panellists in her pursuit for glory. Last year, the Éire Óg clubwoman was captain of the side, a role that “was a change” but didn’t see her become more vocal on the pitch, “She does her talking on the field”, Louise remarks of her teammate. School holidays have been a damp squib this year with Clare recording its wettest July in 77 years. The duo are hoping to lift the spirits of the county this weekend. Speaking to The Clare Echo at the open training session in Cusack Park in advance of the final where young supporters got autographs from the Clare players, Louise added, “We’re not used to this and having all these young girls following us, they’ve been very good all year coming to our matches and stuff, seeing them in-person today is excellent and gives us a lift going towards the final”.

l Louise Griffin and (right) Orla Devitt

Photo by Gerard O'Neill

Soccer league support plan to set up new company

by Seamus Hayes news@clareecho.ie

AN EGM of the Clare soccer league decided by a big majority on Tuesday in favour of setting up a jointly owned company with the CSSL (schoolboys league) to own and run Frank Healy Park in Doora.

The vote was 21 to 4 in favour of the proposal which will now be debated by the schoolboys league.

Cathal Jones, an accountant, outlined the proposal to the delegates stressing that both leagues would have to support the proposal before the process would proceed.

“Both leagues [CDSL and CSSL] are basically run by the same group of people and everything is fundraised through the clubs. There is no joined-up thinking and this has hindered progress. The concept is to set up a company and make decisions jointly. This is not being done to take anything away. The clubs will have the final say on whatever is done. The members of the proposed CLG will be the member clubs at any given time”, Mr Jones told the meeting.

He said the proposal was for seven directors, two each from the CDSL and the CSSL with the remaining three being put in place with the help of the Clare Volunteer Centre.

Philip Cahill from the league executive

stressed, “there is no risk with the first step. The clubs will have the final say”.

Michael Guilfoyle welcomed the proposal as did Avenue Utd delegate Gearoid Mannion. Some delegates questioned if the trustees of Healy Park had been consulted about this proposal to which Philip Cahill replied “we can’t do anything until the clubs here decide on whether or not to support the proposal”.

League cup to begin new season

The league cup will be the first competition for Clare soccer clubs in the new season.

Delegates voted 21 to 4 in favour of having the league cup before the premier league gets underway. Denis Collins told the meeting that six clubs had contacted him suggesting that this happen. Opposition to the change came from Avenue and Newmrket. Avenue United’s Gearoid Mannion spoke of the importance for clubs to have good competition in preparation for the FAI and Munster Junior Cup competitions.

Shannon Hibs in danger of folding

Shannon Hibs are in danger of folding their chairman Andy O’Mahoney told the meeting. He explained that a majority of their first team players have left the club and that the league was ruling that their B team must go up to the Premier Division, “the players are not prepared to do this”.

CLARE SFC GROUP 1, ROUND 1 Kilmurry-Ibrickane 2-10 St Breckans 2-09 Venue: Cusack Park, Ennis

Liam Tierney controls the ball with his feet and pulls onto Andrew Shannon’s jersey Burren Eye Photography

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PRAYER

O most beautiful Flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendour of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me this my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother.

O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succour me in this necessity; there are none that can withstand your power.

O, show me herein you are my Mother, O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. (3 times)

Sweet Mother, I place this cause in your hands.

(3 times)

Say this prayer for 3 consecutive days, and then you must publish it and it will be granted to you.

O most beautiful Flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendour of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me this my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother.

O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succour me in this necessity; there are none that can withstand your power.

O, show me herein you are my Mother, O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. (3 times)

Sweet Mother, I place this cause in your hands.

(3 times)

Say this prayer for 3 consecutive days, and then you must publish it and it will be granted to you. A

Lord Jesus, I come before you, just as I am, I am sorry for my sins, I repent of my sins, please forgive me. In your Name, I forgive all others for what they have done against me. I renounce Satan, the evil spirits and all their works. I give you my entire self, Lord Jesus, now and forever. I invite you into my life, Jesus. I accept you as my Lord, God and Savior. Heal me, change me, strengthen me in body, soul, and spirit. Come Lord Jesus, cover me with your Precious Blood, and fill me with your Holy Spirit. I love you Lord Jesus. I praise you Jesus. I thank you Jesus. I shall follow you every day of my life. Amen.

Mary, My Mother, Queen of Peace, St. Peregrine, the cancer saint, all the Angels and Saints, please help me. Amen.

For Jennifer

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL. SHRAGH, KILRUSH, CO. CLARE,

Take notice that Diarmuid Keane + Associates Ltd. (065-9083667, www.diarmuidkeane.ie) intends to apply to Clare County Council on behalf of Caroline Lernihan & Eoin Finn for planning permission to renovate and extend the existing dwelling house and to provide a new private on-site wastewater treatment system and all associated site 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 planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the 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.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL. QUERRIN, KILKEE, CO. CLARE

, Take notice that Diarmuid Keane + Associates Ltd. (065-9083667, www.diarmuidkeane.ie) intends to apply to Clare County Council on behalf of Eimear Fitzpatrick and John Hennessy for planning permission to renovate and extend the existing dwelling house and to provide a new private onsite wastewater treatment system and all associated site 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 planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the 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.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL.

6 SCHOOL ROAD, LAHINCH, CO. CLARE, V95 N9T2

Take notice that Diarmuid Keane + Associates Ltd.

(065-9083667, www.diarmuidkeane.ie) intends to apply to Clare County Council on behalf of Una Fitzgerald for planning permission to construct an extension to the existing dwelling house along with all associated site 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 planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the 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.

MAIGH DARA & BALLYHANNON NORTH, QUIN, CO. CLARE CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL

Planning Ref: P22 /1039

Further Information / Revised Plans

a) Construct 8 No. Semi-detached Dwelling Houses (16 houses in total)

b) Amend access road and ancillary services permitted under ref. PI 6/630

c) Provide temporary access road from the public road at Ballyhannon North (Road ref. No. L 7194) for building purposes only in order to prevent machinery and builder providers accessing the site via the existing Maigh Dara housing estate Maigh Dara & Ballyhannon North, Quin, Co. Clare

Take notice that Abbey View Quin Property Development Limited has lodged significant further information in respect of planning application P22 / 1039. This information and planning application may be inspected or purchased, at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority of Clare County Council, Planning Department, Aras Contae an Chlåir, New Road, Ennis, Co. Clare during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, not later than 5 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL, SHANDRUM, MULLAGH, CO. CLARE

Take notice that M. O’Brien intends to apply to

the Planning Authority for permission to construct a new living accommodation unit with connections to existing site services along with ancillary site works at the above address.

That 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 that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL 11 COTTAGE GARDENS, STATION ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

I, Helen Brooks, intend to apply to the above authority for permission for development at 11 Cottage Gardens, Station Road, Ennis, Co. Clare.

The development will consist of the construction of a new dwelling house, access road and connections to existing services along with all associated works at the above address.

The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of Clare County Council during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL CULLEEN, NEWMARKET-ONFERGUS, CO. CLARE

Take notice that Michael Keating Dip. Arch. (phone 085-8421780, www.michaelkeating.ie), on behalf of Pat O’Brien, intend to apply to Clare County Council for full permission to renovate and extend existing dwelling house, connect to new wastewater treatment system and carry out all ancillary site works at Culleen, Newmarket-on-Fergus, Co. Clare. 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 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 FORMOYLE

INAGH, CO. CLAREL

Take notice that Brian Foudy & Associates Ltd of Osprey House, Carmody Street, Ennis, Co. Clare 065 6893565 www.foudyconsulting.ie.

intend to apply to the planning authority on behalf of Tracey Wynne for permission to construct a dwellinghouse, detached domestic garage, wastewater treatment system and soil polishing filter together with all associated site development works and services 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 planning authority 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 QUERRIN, KILKEE, CO. CLARE

Take notice that Orla Hassett & Seamus McCarthy are applying to Clare County Council for planning permission to restore, refurbish & extend an existing vacant house along with all associated works at the above address. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of Clare County Council during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

CLARE COUNTY COUNCIL UNIT 7, GORT ROAD INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, GORT ROAD, ENNIS, CO. CLARE.

Take notice that Minds Applied Ltd are applying to Clare County Council for planning permission to install a first floor to accommodate office space and storage space which will be used as ancillary to the production facility granted under P22-287. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of Clare County Council during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

THE DISTRICT COURT NO. 86.3

PUBLIC DANCE HALLS ACT, 1935

NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR A PUBLIC DANCING LICENCE

District Court Area of Ennis District No. 12 Kasterwell Limited, Applicant

TAKE NOTICE that the above-named Applicant Kasterwell Limited of 13-18 City Quay, Dublin, intends to apply to Annual District Court sitting at the Courthouse Ennis, Co. Clare on the 27 September 2023 at 10:30 for the grant of an Annual Dance Licence a Licence to use a particular place, to wit: The Woodstock Hotel Shanaway Road, Ennis, Co. Clare in court area and district aforesaid, for public dancing.

Signed McMahon O’Brien Tynan Solicitor for Applicant Mill House, Henry Street Limerick

PRAYER

THE MIRACLE PRAYER

Dear Heart of Jesus, In the past, I have asked for many favours. This time, I ask you This special favour.

(Mention Favour)

Take it dear Heart of Jesus, And place it within

Your own broken heart

Where your Father sees it, Then in His Merciful Eyes

It will become your favour Not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer for 3 days.

Promise publication.

O.M

Recent Deaths

Blake, Sean Clare

Murray, Patrick (Paddy) Kilkee Clare

Blake (née Kennedy), Theresa Kilkee Clare

ENGLISH (née Henchy), Thérèse (Terry) Clare

O’Kelly, Marie Kinvara Clare

Daly, Mary Kilmihil Clare

Foley, Tom-Joe Kilkee Clare

Dexter, Kathryn Lisdoonvarna Clare

Foley (née Kelly), Christina (Dina) Ardnacrusha Clare

Hehir, James (J.J.) Inch Clare

Purcell, Michael Kilkee Clare

Keane, Patrick (Paddy) Killaloe Clare

O’Connor (née Browne), Mary Ennis Clare

Gavin (née Minogue), Joan Ogonnelloe Clare

Griffin, Maurice Ennis Clare

Hickey (née Moloney), Mary Ennis Clare

THE MIRACLE PRAYER

Dear Heart of Jesus, In the past, I have asked for many favours. This time, I ask you This special favour.

(Mention Favour)

Take it dear Heart of Jesus, And place it within

Your own broken heart

Where your Father sees it, Then in His Merciful Eyes

It will become your favour Not mine. Amen.

Say this prayer for 3 days. Promise publication.

O.M

THIS WEEKS PUZZLES Aug 3rd

Best Daily Word Search: 8 August 2023

WORD SEARCH

HOW TO PLAY

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.

The Clare Echo Crossword

2023

that's not too your coffee

ACROSS

1. Distinguish(7)

5. Revolves(5)

8. Wooden shoes(5)

9. Lingered(7)

10. Endangered(2,5)

11. Wingless parasitic insect(5)

12. Portuguese currency unit(6)

14. Foreigners(6)

18. Father Christmas(5)

20. Loss of memory(7)

22. Place of shelter for ships(7)

23. Maladroit(5)

24. Large, unwieldy(5)

DOWN

1. Mislead(7)

2. Exclusive news story(5)

3. Guaranteed(7)

4. Stinging plant(6)

5. Of the country(5)

6. Free time(7)

7. Move furtively(5)

13. Restraint(7)

15. Yearning(7)

16. Began(7)

17. Infertile(6)

18. Term of respect in India(5)

19. Great pain(5)

CROSSWORD ANSWERS

25. Nullified(7) Aug

21. Perfume(5)