The Clare Echo 11/02/21

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FEB 11 2021

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MIRACLE MAN FEAKLE’S DUN PURCELL OVERCOMES COVID-19 AT 98 PÁRAIC MCMAHON paraic@clareecho.ie

A

T 98 years young Feakle icon Dun Purcell has returned home after surviving COVID-19 and a week-long stint in hospital.

“Everything has worked out,” Dun reflected when talking to The Clare Echo about his continued recovery from the deadly virus which has claimed the lives of more than 3,750 people in the Republic of Ireland.

Last month he noticed that he was becoming weaker which later turned out to be as a result of the virus. His family admitted that he was “very sick” during his

time at Ennis Hospital but are grateful to see him come around the other side.

His strong immune system has been credited with aiding his ability to overcome COVID-19. When he was in early twenties, Purcell also managed to fight off TB with his doctor predicting he had “a very long life” ahead of him.

On Friday he returned home to Feakle and Dun’s health has been improving each day since with his family keeping a close eye on him. Word of Dun’s recovery and his ability to defy the odds has provided a timely lift in East Clare and further afield. Kate, his daughter has said the amazing recovery makes Dun “some sort of a miracle man”.

FULL STORY Page 8

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

l UP AND AWAY: Pictured at launch of Ireland’s first fixed wing air ambulance service at Shannon Airport are (L-R) Ray Mills, CEO

Gainjet Ireland, Suzanne O’Neill, Critical Care Flight Nurse from Newtown Nenagh Co Tipperary and Mary Considine, CEO Shannon Group. For full story, see pg 11

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Two vaccination centres on the way PÁRAIC MCMAHON

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paraic@clareecho.ie

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WO vaccination centres are to be set up in Co Clare over the coming weeks.

As of February 5, 230,776 people have received a COVID-19 vaccine. 151,212 people have received their first dose and 79,554 people have received their second dose. As the roll-out of the vaccine continues, centres are to be set up across the country including two in Clare to administer the jab.

It is expected that the Radisson Blu Hotel on the county boundary with Limerick will be operational as a major centre by the end of February. Treacy’s West County Hotel in Ennis is also to come on stream as a centre at a later date. No timelines for the opening of either centre has been confirmed.

Speaking on Sunday, CEO of the HSE, Paul Reid confirmed that up to 40 large vaccination centres would be set up across the State. He said that the facilities could have 40 to 50 lanes for people to be vaccinated, while others may have 10 to 20 bays. The plans for the new facilities are being developed alongside the immediate plan for vaccinating those over the age of 70 in the Republic through GP practices.

Those over 70 will receive their first vaccination by mid-April and their second by mid-May, Reid outlined. It had originally been planned that the first doses would

have been provided to those over 70 by the end of March.

HSE officials are to examine the Radisson this week to determine what needs to be done to ensure it successfully operates as a large vaccination centre. Plans for the West County are not as advanced, The Clare Echo understands.

Clare TD, Cathal Crowe (FF) believed the use of the Radisson was “a hugely significant step as this would be a large distribution centre where all those living in south and east Clare can be vaccinated in accordance with the government plans”. The Meelick native added, “I believe there will also be smaller centres where GPs will be able to administer the injections once we reach mass distribution too so I am confident that there will be plenty of options for people to get vaccinated in Clare”.

Mayor of Clare, Cllr Mary Howard (FG) had tabled a motion to the February meeting of Clare County Council urging the local authority to assist the HSE in identifying a suitable location in the county to be used as a vaccination centre, a call which was supported by Cllr Johnny Flynn (FG). “Ongoing dialogue” between the Council and the HSE Mid-West will lead to centres opening up in Limerick, Tipperary and Clare, Chief Executive Pat Dowling confirmed.

Speaking on Monday, Cllr Ann Norton (IND) revealed that she has written to the HSE offering the use of the Clare Crusaders Clinic as a vaccination centre and also for small GP practices to utilise if they need a bigger area. “Unfortunately we’re unable to provide therapy at the minute but we’d be delighted to support the roll-out”.

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THURSDAY, FEB 11 2021

Kilmurry McMahon woman appointed Deputy Garda Commissioner A KILMURRY McMahon woman has been appointed as a Deputy Commissioner of An Garda Síochána, writes Páraic McMahon.

Anne Marie McMahon’s appointment has been approved by the Government on Tuesday following her nomination by the Policing Authority. Dr Shawna Cox of the Toronto Police Service has also been announced as a new Deputy Commissioner. John Twomey will be retiring from his role as Deputy Commissioner in the near future.

Currently the acting Deputy Commissioner, Strategy, Governance & Performance, Anne Marie joined the Gardaí in 1986.

Among the key actions for which she is responsible is the continued roll-out of the new Operating Model. She has taken up the appointment with effect from Wednesday (February 10th) with Shawna starting duty on April 19th.

Previously she served as Assistant Commissioner Southern Region from 2016 to 2020. Prior to this appointment, she was Director of Training and Development, Garda College in Templemore.

She has held a number of other senior roles in An Garda Síochána including Chief Superintendent of the Garda Community Relations Bureau and Superintendent in both Roxboro Road and Bruff and Inspector in Henry Street and Newcastle West, Co Limerick. In her earlier career Anne Marie served in Coolock, Dublin, Henry Street, Limerick and with the United Nations in Cambodia.

She holds a MBS (Honours) Human Resource Management from the University of Limerick and a BA (Honours) in Police Management, Garda College. In 2014 she received a Diploma in Business and Executive Coaching (Distinction) Smurfit Business School.

McMahon became only the second wom-

lNEW ROLE: Anne Marie McMahon an in history to serve as Deputy Commissioner, she held the role in an acting capacity last year, following in the footsteps of Noirín O’Sullivan.

On Tuesday, Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee (FG) offered her “wholehearted congratulations” to both McMahon and Cox. “Both of these officers have solid records of achievement and delivery and bring deep skill, experience and huge personal commitment to policing to these important senior positions”.

Policing Authority Chairperson Bob Collins noted that both women came through a “demanding and thorough selection process” which involved the Government, Policing Authority and Public Appointments Service.

Garda Commissioner, Drew Harris said of the West Clare woman, “Anne Marie brings huge policing experience, competence in difficult senior command roles, and drive and determination in delivering change through the Policing Service for our Future reform agenda. Through the exercise of positive leadership and example she has earned the trust and respect of members and staff ”.

Victim of serious assault dies A WOMAN involved in a serious assault in Ennis late last month has died, writes Páraic McMahon.

Sharon Bennett was left unconscious following an assault in The Market, Ennis on Thursday January 28. After almost two weeks in hospital, she died on Wednesday with a post-mortem

conducted later that afternoon.

An Garda Síochána have confirmed to The Clare Echo that investigations are ongoing. At a special sitting of Ennis District Court, Det Noelle Bergin stated that the injured party was left in “an unconscious state since the alleged assault” and suf-

fered serious head injuries.

Last Wednesday, Patrick Ballard (34) appeared via video link at another sitting of Ennis District Court.

Judge Patrick Durcan further remanded Mr Ballard in custody to March 3rd for the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) to provide directions in the case.

Locals must benefit from wind farm PÁRAIC MCMAHON

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paraic@clareecho.ie

NE of East Clare’s biggest projects has moved a step closer with elected representatives of the local authority approving a planners report for the development of the Carrownagowan Wind Farm.

Construction of 19 wind turbines with an energy output of between 90 to 110MW, with a 30-year lifespan is currently being assessed by An Bord Pleánala. The relevant guidelines by which the wind farm must abide by are sixteen years old as the Draft Revised Wind Energy Development Guidelines have yet to be approved.

Numerous townlands are incorporated into the subject site. It is located on the northern slopes of the Slieve Bernagh mountain. The application site area amounts to almost 750ha of land which consists of conifer plantation, bogland, cutover bogland and improved grasslands. The site is located roughly 2.5km south of Bodyke village and 4km northeast of Broadford, Lough Derg is approximately 4km to the east of the site.

Permission was previously sought for a seven turbine windfarm development to the southeast of the subject site. This was refused by the Planning Authority and An Bord Pleánala on grounds of impact on visual amenities.

For the current application, an impact assessment has been completed. It is recognised that the proposal would significantly alter the character of the landscape in this area, and if permitted, would be the first such windfarm in East Clare.

Feakle and Bodyke will experience the main visual impact according to the planning authority as the communities will view the full expanse of all of the turbines. The proposal would be visible in views from Lough Derg, at Holy Island and Mountshannon, at scenic points across Lough Derg in Tipperary. The windfarm would not be visible from Killaloe or Ballina.

Public amenity trails throughout the site should be retained, the planning authority noted. It also advised that there may be a further planning gain by the development of additional walking trails within the site.

East Clare councillors have requested that a community fund be created to reflect the “huge impact” on the people of the area.

Speaking at Monday’s meeting of Clare County Council, Cllr Pat Hayes (FF) said Carrownagowan Wind Farm would be “one of the bigger projects that will happen in our side of the county in a long time”. He calculated that the development would be worth more than €50m. Public consultation was a concern for the Cathaoirleach of the Killaloe Municipal District who was disappointed the new wind energy guidelines were not in place.

Walking trails in East Clare could be enhanced by the wind farm, Cllr Tony O’Brien (FF) believed. He admitted that there is annoyance as “people weren’t allowed build two storey houses to raise their families in the area” due to visual impact but a wind farm will proceed.

Efforts had been made to have extensive public consultation but they were disrupted by the pandemic, Cllr Joe Cooney (FG) stated. He queried what process was in place for the removal and replacement of the turbines when their 30 year lifespan expires.

Deputy Mayor of the County Council, Cllr Pat Burke (FG) remarked that it was “by far the biggest development proposed for East Clare” since his election in 2009. “We don’t have a windfarm in any part of East Clare currently, some of us can see the Derrybrien wind farm in Galway and the ones in Templederry and the Silvermines”.

Council officials were praised for a detailed submission by Cllr Alan O’Callaghan (FF). “It is exciting times, there will be a visual impact but also a financial gain to a degree”.

Chief Executive, Pat Dowling acknowledged that it was a significant project.

“There is no excuse for not doing extensive consultation. We will have a conversation with promoters to ensure communities receive maximum benefit,” he said.

lEXTENSIVE: The application site area covers 750ha of land

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Minister for Travellers needed to ‘sort out’ recurring issues PÁRAIC MCMAHON

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paraic@clareecho.ie

ONSIDERATION needs to be given to the creation of a Minister for Travellers to sort out issues “once and for all,” a Clare councillor has stated.

Members of the Clare Joint Policing Committee discussed the draft anti-social behaviour strategy 2020 to 2026 on Monday with the discussion focusing on the Traveller community.

Deputy Cathal Crowe (FF) brought the subject of illegal encampments into the spotlight. He believed it was unacceptable for 5km restrictions to be breached by persons setting up such encampments. “their usual place of abode needs to ascertained and that is where they need to return to”. He recalled recent activity in Shannon which has now led to an encampment emerging in Sixmilebridge, he asked the housing authority to find room in Council owned halting sites “that would be safer and more appro-

priate than an encampment on the side of the road”.

Community activist Dermot Hayes responded by saying during Crowe’s 16 years on the Council the local authority “failed abysmally to house Travellers, they have sent millions back to the Government. The responsibility lays with the local authority.

Instead of condemning the Travellers at every whim on public airwaves, knuckle down and sort it”. Crowe disputed the comments and stated many instances have occurred where suitable accommodation was declined, he added that the Council “have gone above the call of duty” on the matter.

Successive Governments have “abdicated on their responsibility, they are good at passing the buck to the local authority,” Cllr Michael Begley (IND) maintained. Oireachtas members must put pressure on the Housing Minister, he felt. Questions were raised by Deputy Violet-Anne Wynne (SF) on whether a specific Travellers office has been sought from within the Housing Department by Clare County Council.

Senator Roisin Garvey (GP) explained that issues 22 years ago when she worked

with Travellers continue to the present day.

“It’s not black and white, some of them want to be on the side of the road and then want to be in houses and change their mind.

You could build all the houses and it still wouldn’t solve it”.

A single caravan is causing “immense stress” in Ennis presently, Cllr Paul Murphy

lSOLUTION: Cllr John Crowe

Photo by Martin Connolly

(FG) outlined.

Chairperson of the JPC, Cllr John Crowe said it was time to sort out the matter of illegal encampment. “There should be a Minister appointed to this to get this sorted once and for all”. McAleer observed that Traveller accommodation was the focus of a discussion on anti-social behaviour “which is the problem”.

Extensive engagement is carried out with the Traveller mediation service, McNulty stated. “It is in the individual’s choice to engage in mediation, we can’t force the person, on a number of times the person has refused, you can bring the horse to water but you can’t make it drink it”. She explained that there is a four stage approval process for the allocation of funding for Traveller accommodation with more than the allocation spent last year. Permanent accommodation for caravans at Ballaghboy on the Quin Rd is planned. 15 of the 59 Traveller accommodation units in Clare are vacant “with no current prospects for re-allocation,” McNulty confirmed. “There is quite a lot of inter-cultural feuding in the Traveller community in Clare which is causing a lot of issues”.

Children in encampments 'need more protection and support’

SUPPORT and protection for children living in illegal encampments is lacking according to a North Clare elected representative, writes Páraic McMahon.

A lengthy discussion on the subject of illegal encampments formed part of Monday's Clare County Council meeting with two motions tabled on the matter.

Establishment of a multi-agency taskforce "to deal with ongoing problems that arise as a result of illegal encampments" was sought

by Cllr Paul Murphy (FG).

Enforcement of "the laws of the land in relation to tackling the unauthorised occupation of public lands" plus the design of a mechanism "to protect all citizens in Ireland" from this formed a proposal from Cllr Gerry Flynn (IND) which was co-signed by Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF), Cllr Joe Garrihy (FG), Cllr Shane Talty (FF), Cllr Ann Norton (IND), Cllr Tony O'Brien (FF), Cllr John Crowe (FG), Cllr Joe Killeen (FF), Cllr Murphy and Cllr Joe Cooney (FG).

Representatives from the Council, Gardaí, HSE, Tusla, Probation Services, Department of Social Protection, Irish Traveller Movement, Traveller Mediation Service and North Clare Family Resource Centre are included on a recently established Housing High Level Steering Group, Director of Services Anne Haugh confirmed. One meeting of this group has taken place.

A new Tenancy Enforcement Team has been appointed and will commence work in the coming weeks. Their duty will be to "investigate fully any complaints relating to alleged failure of tenants to abide by the conditions of their letting agreements" which includes addressing illegal encampments, property and estate inspections. Bye laws already exist prohibiting overnight parking of caravans and motorhomes.

Projects such as Ennis 2040 will not suc-

ceed if illegal encampments aren't tackled, the Cllr Murphy stated. "We have people pulling up in a caravan on the side of the road as a means to bump them up the queue and get a house which is not right. The homeless situation needs to be addressed but people are also playing the system".

Unauthorised entry was a "growing problem," Cllr Flynn believed. Cllr Colleran Molloy stated "we know from empirical data that Gardaí are slow to remove the sites, one wonders if this would be the Gardaí approach to non Travellers. We know this is not just a Co Clare issue but the deafening silence from our national politicians is glaring". Cllr Crowe felt it had now reached "an epidemic state all over the county."

Cllr Killeen detailed that many sides exist for every story. "As a teacher, my concern is the impact to the education on the young in these situations, when families move from designated school providing support, the child is missing out on time from school which is a matter for Tusla but also the social and educational supports to which they are entitled. Children in these encampments need our protection and support".

"There are lots of Court cases going on which is moving the issue from place to place. They need proper provision," Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) maintained.

l IMPACT: A recent illegal encampment in Shannon

Photo by Joe Buckley

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'Untold anguish' through demand for second level places PÁRAIC MCMAHON

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paraic@clareecho.ie

ECONDARY level schools in Ennis are experiencing an "unprecedented demand" for first year places prompting one school to review its intake as a Clare TD urged the Minister for Education to intervene.

St Flannan's College received 476 applications for 216 places in its first year class, an increase of 76 applications.

Principal, Fr Ignatius McCormack told The Clare Echo, "Due to unprecedented demand for first year places in St Flannan's and in second level schools in Ennis, the Patron and board of management of St. Flannan's College has revisited our intake for this year".

He confirmed that St Flannan's will be offering a further 24 places in its first year class which will bring the total number to 240.

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

The matter was aided when Ennis Community College provided 42 additional places for the students.

Ten primary school principals have made contact with Clare Oireachtas members again as they shared their worry on the well-being of students who remain without placements.

Deputy Joe Carey (FG) outlined that "several distressed parents" have flagged the matter with him as their children have yet to receive a second level school place in Ennis. He appealed to the Minister of Education, Norma Foley (FF) to address the shortage of places as "a matter of urgency".

Carey believed that the problem has deteriorated in recent years creating "a most disturbing situation for pupils' mental health and well-being". He referenced the extension at Ennis Community College which is nearing completion and the extra capacity that will become available there to add more secondary school places in the coming years but admitted it will not be sufficient for students starting secondary school in September.

Minister Foley was informed by Deputy Carey that the issues must be recognised as he sought adequate resources to resolve the matter. "As in previous years, there seems to be many cases of pupils receiving multiple offers whilst other classmates have not received any. This has created a most disturbing situation for pupils' mental health and well-being".

"Untold anguish" has been caused for children and their families, the Clarecastle TD felt. "A fairer system needs to be devised in order to protect the wellbeing of pupils caught up in this broken system. I am asking as a matter of urgency that the Department of Education convenes a meeting involving all secondary school principals with a view to coming up with a workable plan to deal with these matters which are impacting upon a large number of students and their families."

Clare Echo THE

Nominate Your Lockdown Hero

Ennistymon residents 'up in arms' after burning of house RESIDENTS in Ennistymon are "up in arms" over instances of violence in the North Clare town, writes Páraic McMahon.

Gardaí are investigating a criminal damage incident by fire which occurred at a residence at Glen North in Ennistymon on January 26th. The investigation has been ongoing for the past two weeks.

A spokesperson for An Garda Síochána told The Clare Echo, "Extensive damage was caused to the property by the blaze. No injuries were reported and no arrests have been made".

Speaking at Monday's meeting of the Clare Joint

Policing Committee, former Fine Gael councillor Bill Slattery lamented the lack of resources within Clare County Council and An Garda Síochána impeding their ability to enforce legislation surrounding illegal encampments.

He said a second house in Ennistymon was "burnt to the ground" at what was regarded one of the best housing estates in the area up until recently "but certain people have ruined it".

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Bill said a previous fire in the past three or four years caused €80k worth of damage in the area.

Another encampment has

emerged in a residential area, Slattery flagged.

"Something has to be done with these people, I'm not a racist but we can't be burning houses, Ennistymon has three halting sites, something has to be done.

The residents are up in arms," he added.

Superintendent John Galvin stated: "Ennistymon is a very safe community where An Garda Síochána is well supported by the people. I would appeal to members of the general public who may have any information which they believe may be of assistance in this investigation to make contact with Gardaí".

Do you know someone who has gone above and beyond to help a person out during the pandemic?

If so, nominate them as your lockdown hero by emailing editor@clareecho.ie or by post to 36C Abbey St, Lifford, Ennis, Co. Clare and in less than 100 words explain why they should win.

Include where they are from and leave your own contact number.

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8 NEWS

THURSDAY, FEB 11 2021

Dun Purcell defies the odds to beat Covid-19 at 98 years old

l CHARACTER: Dun Purcell

Photo by John Mangan

PÁRAIC MCMAHON

N

paraic@clareecho.ie

INETY eight year old Dun Purcell is being hailed as "a miracle man" after overcoming COVID-19.

Diagnosed with the virus on January 20th, Dun made a remarkable recovery which resulted in his discharge from Ennis Hospital and subsequent return to his beloved Feakle on Friday.

Despite falling into the category of the very high risk groups and extremely vulnerable, Dun thankfully did not join the growing list of 3,750 plus persons that have died after contracting COVID-19 in the Republic of Ireland.

Regarded as one of the true great characters of East Clare, Purcell was honoured almost a decade ago by Bluebird Care as one of the finest examples of positive ageing. He has always expressed his pride at being from

Clare and the culture of music and song associated with the county.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Dun said that he was "feeling alright" but admitted that his energy levels took a dent and that he is sleeping longer. "God knows I have," he stated when reflecting on beating the virus, "everything has worked out".

He remains as sharp as ever with his ability to trace the genealogy of this writer successfully completed less than a minute after picking up the phone on Tuesday afternoon.

Indeed overcoming a deadly disease is nothing new to the retired farmer. When he was in his early twenties, Dun had tuberculosis.

"I had TB very early in life. When I had TB and got over it, the doctor told me I would have a very long life". More young Irish people were slain by TB than in warfare, in the 1930s and 1940s it was equated as the AIDS of its time. To have survived two fierce illnesses makes Dun even more unique. "He has always had a very good immune system.

He has been good at beating things, he always seems to come through, he has a very good immune system," his daughter Kate admired.

When it came to COVID-19, Dun revealed that he was not feeling particularly unwell but gradually became weaker and weaker. "To be quite honest I didn't know I was sick, that is the only way I know I could explain it. I didn't know I was sick and maybe I was getting sicker and sicker until I knew I was done up".

Kate told The Clare Echo that the timing of Dun's recovery has been a perfect lift.

"People have been telling me that they needed to hear it amidst all the doom and gloom.

Especially older people when you hear them getting it, everyone holds their breath and says 'oh dear me'.

“It's great to see how Dun came out of it, he spent a week in hospital, he was very sick and got very sick with it, he was very low for a while but within two or three days within the hospital giving him treatment he started to come round and really day by day he's been getting better and better".

She noted that this is the first time the family have really had to look after their independent father.

"Up to now he has been living on his own.

He is well able to fend for himself, he was

driving up until a few weeks ago, he has had great health so hopefully he will come back to himself within a short space of time".

Having lived through the second World War, surviving scarlet fever and TB, Dun pinpointed the lockdown measures and dealing with isolation as a very hard period in his life with the lack of social contact dramatically reduced.He added, "I'm not too badly off, I can sit here near the fire, I wouldn't like to be going out this evening because it is very cold but I'm going out for a walk every day".

Enjoying a nice cup of tea in Bauregegaun Cottage was something Dun was looking forward to during his time in hospital. "Before I go to bed tonight, I might have a cup of tea, my family will put me to bed and I feel very comfortable then when I go to bed".

In November, he was shortlisted as a nominee for Clare Older Person of the Year in recognition for running the Looking Forward Group for the past 15 years. He let out a hearty laugh when The Clare Echo said it was yet another feather in his cap, "Oh Holy God but it all adds up to something," he remarked.

‘Young people are dying because Siobhán hopeful of place in Miss Ireland 2021 final people aren’t there to listen’ A LACK of facilities to aid the treatment of mental health are increasing the amount of young people dying, a Clare councillor has claimed, writes Páraic McMahon.

Minister for Health, Stephen Donnelly (FF) and the HSE have been requested to ensure "sufficient resources" exist on a 24 hour basis for UL Hospitals facilities "to afford adequate protection to patients presenting with mental health difficulties" in need of support and protection.

"In particular, discharge should be delayed until consultation with the patients family, general practitioner or an appropriate community service has taken place," the proposal from Cllr Shane Talty (FF) read.

Speaking at Monday's meeting of the local authority, Cllr Talty detailed the events which led to the suicide of a man in Co Clare in December. "We all tend to say why didn't they talk to us or reach out, in this case this person rang the emergency services," he recalled. A "very speedy response" followed, the man voluntarily went

to University Hospital Limerick but was later transferred to Ennis Hospital.

Less than a day later, he was discharged and went home via private taxi, "by the next day he was found deceased on the family farm," Cllr Talty stated. "We would expect that if a person has sought help that we could be assured of some level of care and a discharge in an organised manner, clearly the distress he was under wouldn't have passed by the time he was discharged," the North Clare representative said in calling for stronger supports. "The timeline and how things played out shouldn't have happened".

Common sense needs to be brought into the equation on mental health, Cllr Ann Norton (IND) outlined as she criticised the inability to contact the man's family before his discharge. "Unfortunately this is not the first time I've heard something like this has happened, Ennis Hospital doesn't seem to have capacity or expertise when it comes to mental health. People are losing their lives because

there isn't people there to listen to them". She added, "Young people are dying because of a lack of facilities. This has happened too many times, people are losing their lives and the HSE need to start supporting people with mental health issues".

Existing community psychiatric services need to be developed and supported, Cllr Susan Crawford (GP) felt. She informed the meeting that staff want more services developed at Ennis Hospital.

"There is no reason whatsoever that we couldn't have 24 hour community nursing services on call. This is a huge gaping hole, it is this time in a COVID era that we need to start providing that support".

Patients are receiving medication when they are intoxicated and then getting discharged despite having mental health concerns Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) flagged.

"We are a first world country but in some respects the services are third world. The HSE in my opinion are unaccountable," Cllr Gerry Flynn (IND) believed.

SIOBHÁN Fitzpatrick (inset) is hoping luck will shine and that she will secure a place as a finalist in this year’s Miss Ireland.

The 21 year-old student teacher from Kilmaley was the first runner up at the 2020 Miss Clare selection, which secured her a place in the semi-final.

There was no Miss Ireland final selection in 2020 due to COVID so the semi-finalists will now get a chance to compete in a virtual event that could see them move forward to Miss Ireland 2021.

The ‘Miss Ireland semi-final’ sees all the runner up placements from the 2020 selections take part in a virtual TV format selection.

A top panel of judges will interview all 20 finalists and select eight women who will move forward to Miss Ireland 2021.

In addition to the judging panel, for the first time ever one additional semi-finalist

will secure a place as the People’s Choice Award, which is a public vote currently taking place on the new Miss Ireland app.

Brendan Marc Scully Miss Ireland owner and Creative Director says: “We are delighted to be able to produce a safe virtual event for our 2020 County runner ups and they will get their chance to compete for a place as a MI Finalists, we have also launched a new Miss Ireland app which is available for free to download and people can vote for their favourite contestant from anywhere in the world”.

The Miss Ireland Semi Final will take place in the first week of March and will be available online, for more details download the Miss Ireland APP or follow @missirelandorg on social media platforms.

NEWS 9

THURSDAY, FEB 11 2021

U-turn from Minister Ryan puts LNDR back on track PÁRAIC MCMAHON

C

paraic@clareecho.ie

ONFIRMATION has been issued that the first phase of the Limerick Northern Distributor Road (LNDR) will now proceed.

Concerns emerged in recent weeks regarding the future of the LNDR which would provide a transport link between the eastern and western fringes of Limerick City and a link to South Clare.

Word of a u-turn from the Minister for Transport, Eamon Ryan (GP) was confirmed on Wednesday morning.

He outlined that the final phase of the Coonagh to Knockalisheen road would proceed.

Approximately €17m has already been spent on developing part of this roadway, which will run from Coonagh to Meelick and Knockalisheen on the Co Clare side, into the Northern end of Moyross.

As part of this a 10km stretch of new footpath and cycleway will be incorporated. It is intended that the LNDR will open South-East Clare to new op-

portunities including the South Clare Strategic Development Zone (SDZ). A total cost of €58m is earmarked for the LNDR. The Clare Echo understands that Minister Ryan has insisted on the inclusion of a bus corridor as part of the LNDR’s development.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, Deputy Cathal Crowe (FF) commented, “This ends weeks of recent uncertainty and alarm in the locality that this road, despite 12 years of public consultation and preparatory works may not take place”.

Construction could begin “this side of the summer,” the Meelick native admitted, he said a contractor has been

l GO AHEAD: The first phase of LDNR will begin shortly

Flynn’s Pharmacy

put in place and it would have been wrong to pull the project at the eleventh hour. “I think people in South Clare will breathe a sigh of relief knowing that years of uncertainty will now end and this project will begin in earnest. The opportunities with this are endless”.

Deputy Joe Carey (FG) welcomed the turnaround in what he heralded as “great news for Clare, Limerick and the entire Mid-West region”. He believed the works would increase accessibility for Limerick Institute of Technology and lead to further investment in the Mid-West.

“Common sense has prevailed in providing a critical piece of infrastructure,” Carey told The Clare Echo.

He was hopeful sewerage issues in Meelick would be rectified as part of the works with the trunk main tipped to be linked towards the main system in Limerick as a result.

At a meeting of Clare County Council on Monday both Cllr Michael Begley (IND) and Cllr Johnny Flynn (FG) stressed the importance of the LNDR to the progression of the SDZ and Clare’s access tothe University of Limerick.

Chief Executive of the Council, Pat Dowling called the LNDR “a critical piece of infrastructure for the region”.

Call for referendum rejected by Council “ILL-TIMING” has been voiced by Clare councillors as they rejected a proposal to hold a referendum on Irish unity, writes Páraic McMahon.

In what was the only motion at Monday’s meeting of Clare County Council not to be passed, Cllr Donna McGettigan (SF) failed to secure sufficient support in her bid to put the wheels in motion for a referendum on Irish unity.

Referencing the centenary of the passing by the British Parliament at Westminster of Government of Ireland Act in December 1920, Cllr McGettigan stated that it caused “deep injustices, divisions and conflict”.

She proposed that Clare County Council call on the British Government to agree to set a date for the Irish Unity referendum and for the Irish Government to work towards it.

Speaking on Monday, Cllr McGettigan admitted that fellow councillors had contacted her to raise their concerns on the motion’s timing. She detailed that Brexit was also a factor that must be remembered, with it being “hugely damaging for our country with one part being inside in the

EU and another not included”. Sinn Féin’s representative on the Council said she was not looking for the referendum to be held “tomorrow or next week” but felt the discussion needed to begin.

Cllr Johnny Flynn (FG) requested Cllr McGettigan withdraw the motion. “We are in a volatile time,” he observed and believed individuals in the UK and Northern Ireland may find the timing offensive. He said Clare County Council had “no role” in the referendum as he shared his view that the wording of the motion was “completely inappropriate”. Flynn added, “For us to be trying to influence a foreign body, I think it is badly drafted and is ill-timed, I ask that it be withdrawn”.

Due to Level Five restrictions, Cllr Gerry Flynn (IND) felt the timing of the motion was off. He shared the opinion that a United Ireland would “happen at some stage but maybe not in my lifetime”.

Concluding the discussion, Cllr McGettigan thanked her colleagues for their contribution and said she would reword the proposal if bringing it back before the County Council.

10 NEWS

THURSDAY, FEB 11 2021

How have the Clare TDs performed in a crisis year?

PÁRAIC MCMAHON

T

paraic@clareecho.ie

HE General Election of February 2020 was regarded as a political earthquake in Co Clare.

Eyes from across the country were centred on The Falls Hotel with Clare dramatically not electing a TD until the tenth and final count when Michael McNamara (IND), Violet-Anne Wynne (SF), Cathal Crowe (FF) and Joe Carey (FG) prevailed.

It also marked the first election whereby Renua, People Before Profit and the Irish Freedom Party ran contested in the county while the defeats for sitting Junior Minister Pat Breen (FG) and 2007 poll-topper Timmy Dooley (FF) were big talking-points.

To assess the performances of Clare’s TDs to date, The Clare Echo spoke with former Independent TD James Breen, media consultant Peter O’Connell, Equality Officer of Clare Fine Gael Geraldine Gregan and Clare Ógra Fianna Fáil Chairman Fionn Sexton.

Still regarded as the shock winner, the performance of Deputy Wynne is not rated highly by Breen, “She is trying to make an

impact but I wouldn’t rate her performance too highly. In the next election, the candidate in Shannon might steal the seat from her”. Gregan surmised that the Kilrush woman had “populist ideas and opinions. It might get you elected once but it has been proven over and again that TDs like that come and go”.

Wynne has represented her base when it comes to housing and homelessness, O’Connell outlined, “the Sinn Féin TDs seem to be very tightly managed by the party, after a bit of a rocky start I think Violet-Anne has performed solidly, she has a huge mandate and we have to remember that”. Sexton criticised her West Clare presence, “She is purporting to be an opposition TD but really she is a Sinn Féin mouthpiece for sound bytes written by party apparatchik”.

Michael McNamara is viewed by Breen as the top performer to date, “he has been more vociferous on behalf of the people of Clare, the other three have been quite enough”. Sexton said McNamara has been “a great rural Independent voice”.

Gregan felt McNamara manipulated his role as Chairperson of the Oireachtas’ COVID-19 committee to voice his own views. His input as a dissenting voice was praised by UL lecturer O’Connell who ob-

served that many conspiracy theorists were engaging with the Scariff TD’s social media accounts, “A lot of what he says has validity but I wouldn’t agree with everything he says, I do think it is important to have a dissenting voice who knows what they are talking about”.

Joe Carey’s experience as the longest serv-

lOPINION: 2020 was a tough year for Clare TDs

ing Clare TD “hasn’t counted for much” according to Breen. However O’Connell referenced Carey’s swift actions to set up the Shannon Airport Oireachtas Group as significant and a move which will reflect well.

For Gregan, Carey has been the top performer, “You don’t get elected each time unless you’re a public representative that is a solid worker. He’s solid as a rock and always is. There is a lot of one-liners and PR stuff favoured now but Joe doesn’t go into that”.

The actions of his party in leading to “the destruction of rural Ireland” taints his performance, Miltown Malbay’s Sexton said.

Cathal Crowe has brought his work-ethic as a county councillor to the Dáil along with an element of parish-pump politics, Peter felt. According to Gregan, “He is new and it just shows a bit at times”.

Breen said Crowe wasn’t making enough of an impact, “we want people in Dublin that will fight for their county not for their parties”. Sexton predicted the Crowe would become a future Minister, “Cathal has made it very easy to engage during a difficult time, he is a positive force in the county and bypasses a lot of the more cynical moves made

by Fine Gael and the Green Party which are dragging Fianna Fáil down at the moment.

He has really outdone himself”.

Green light for construction of seven new houses in Lahinch CIAN O’BROIN

cianobroin@clareecho.ie

PLANNING permission has been granted for the development of seven residential houses at Attycristora, School Road, Lahinch.

Submitted at the beginning of June by Marram Properties Ltd, the application is for seven detached residential units, an entrance, ancillary services and all associated site works. Marram Ltd who have a registered address at Morrison House, Morrison's Island, Co. Cork, are applying under the care of Arnold Leahy Architects who are based on O' Connell Avenue in Limerick.

A further information (FI) request was issued by Clare County Council at the end of July last year. This addressed several issues including the lack of variety in design of the residential units, the necessity of front door access to all units, a comprehensive traffic management plan and a surface and storm water drain capacity assessment. It was also requested that the

designated location of a foul sewer be adjusted as the plans stated that this was on adjacent private property.

Following receipt of FI, the West Clare Municipal District requested a special contribution for a footpath and storm pipe to ensure adequate drainage as far as the bend on the Eastern Side of School Road.

The 950m storm pipe will cost €61,500 as well as a 950m concrete footpath costing €153,900. Following this senior executive engineer Enda MacNamara indicated that all FI provided was satisfactory.

Planning permission was officially granted by Clare County Council on at the end of January subject to 23 conditions. One condition outlined that "no house in the development shall be used for commercial overnight guest accommodation without a separate planning permission obtained".

This is in keeping with low density residential zoning of the land.

Conditions also state that Marram Ltd must also provide a contribution of €38,843 to Clare County Council Planning Authority in respect of public infrastructure and facilities benefitting the development.

lHOME FRONT: Marram Ltd must provide a contribution to Clare County Council for public infrastructure

NEWS 11

THURSDAY, FEB 11 2021

North America's largest air ambulance service establish critical care base at Shannon Airport PÁRAIC MCMAHON

N

paraic@clareecho.ie

ORTH America's largest air ambulance service have established a European base at Shannon Airport.

Five jobs are to be created as a result of Reva's decision to invest in the west of Ireland.

Final approvals were received by Reva for their new base on Thursday, the project was first proposed in 2020 and is fully operational since Friday.

Dr Adrian Murphy, a leader in pre-hospital medicine will lead the Ireland-based critical care crew.

The Shannon Ireland operation features, a company-owned Hawker 800XP, operated through a strategic partnership with Gainjet Ireland.

Headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the Ireland operation increases Reva's number of global bases to four with more than 350 employees worldwide.

Their air-ambulance team is comprised of

lAIR BED: Part of the Reva fleet of air ambulances

Appointment of Hynes successor ‘imminent’ AN APPOINTMENT for the new Chairperson of Shannon Group is to be made imminently, the Minister for Transport has stated while a review of Shannon Heritage's operations will also be conducted, writes Páraic McMahon.

Shannon Group has been without a Chairperson since Rose Hynes' twelve month contract extension expired in August 2020. The North Clare woman has gone on to be appointed the Chairperson of the Irish Aviation Authority.

Her successor is to be appointed imminently, Minister for Transport Eamon Ryan (GP) outlined on Friday at a meeting with Independent TDs from the West of Ireland including Clare TD, Michael McNamara (IND).

Minister Ryan who was joined

by Minister of State for Interna-

experienced specialists who have completed over 30,000 flights in 70 countries. Reva has a fleet of 16 aircraft and the company stated that its bases are strategically located.

Clare TD, Michael McNamara (IND) be-

tional and Road Transport and Logistics, Hildegarde Naughton (FG) also detailed plans to carry out a review on Shannon Heritage.

Deputy McNamara informed The Clare Echo that he was told "the appointment of a new Chair of Shannon Group is imminent".

"A commitment was given to me that a review the future of Shannon Heritage's position within that group will be undertaken in conjunction with the new Chair," McNamara stated.

Issues on the supports for Shannon Heritage staff was highlighted by the Scariff native during the meeting. "I also raised the precarious position of Shannon Heritage staff whose positions have been transformed into seasonal jobs yet can't avail of redundancy".

lieved Reva's decision to provide a European base at Shannon Airport "signals that aviation-based businesses are seriously looking at the Co Clare airport as an investment location".

In a statement to The Clare Echo, Deputy McNamara welcomed the addition of five jobs and the message it sends to the aviation sector "that Shannon is a viable location for investment".

He praised the role of the IDA and the Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council (PHECC) in securing the investment".

"Reva chose Shannon as its European base in order to establish a foothold in a part of the world with fewer air-ambulance and medical transport service options.

“Working with insurance and travel assistance companies, the company and its onboard medical staff can now transport ill or injured patients 365 days a year between Ireland and Europe, Asia, the Middle East and Africa," McNamara added.

DB Schenker begin work on €10m development in Shannon Free Zone PÁRAIC MCMAHON paraic@clareecho.ie

DB Schenker have started their €10m development at Shannon Free Zone East echoing further confidence in the Mid-West region, writes Páraic McMahon.

A 5.2 acre site has been secured by the logistics company from Shannon Commercial Properties for the development. DB Schenker plans to construct a 52,000 sq. ft. facility on site, built to the highest industry spec which will support their multinational customer base.

Last June, DB Schenker received planning permission for the €10m development. It is seen through-

out the logistics industry as DB Schenker issuing a strong signal throughout its European Network by investing in Shannon.

CEO of DB Schenker in UK and Ireland, Ray Hennessy believed the investment demonstrated their strong growth achieved with large multinational companies in recent years.

"Shannon has been a high-performing location for us for many years. We have strong confidence in the Mid-West Region, and the additional capacity that this building creates will allow us to expand our customer base and offer additional employment opportunities in the area. We look forward to seeing the building completed and operational within 12 months".

Its location close to Shannon

Airport and the M18 offers swift access to the western corridor of Ireland.

The site will offer customers all services, including air and ocean freight, land transport, and value-added logistics solutions.

Construction is expected to run until the first quarter of 2022, at this stage DB Schenker will intend to take occupancy of the new building.

Mary Considine, CEO of Shannon Group stated, "It is really encouraging to see a major development of this scale".

Over 8,000 persons are employed by a network of over 180 companies at the Shannon Free Zone ranging from manufacturing, aviation, logistics, bio-pharma, distribution, tech and more.

TAKE AWAY COCKTAILS

Each Cocktail Bottle Serves 4

12 COLUMNIST

THURSDAY, FEB 11 2021

R

ebecca O’Neill

Top lockdown reads

Clare Echo columnist Rebecca O’Neill shares her top three books that she has read during the lockdown

R

EADING is such a perfect way to take time to relax and unwind. It is a great excuse to stay off your phone too.

Reading really helps me relax and increase my vocabulary. All three books are available in Easons in Shannon and Ennis, Ennis Book Shop, Scéal Eile Books in Ennis and Banner Books in Ennistymon.

1 THE BOOK OF LOVE

2 BEYOND THE TAPE

BY DR. MARIE CASSIDY This memoir talks about the life and many deaths of a State Pathologist. This book is very educational, involving compelling aspects to what a pathologists job entails. Dr. Marie Cassidy expresses her motivation behind her job choice and how she got to where she was. This book brings us through her early life when starting her medical career, to then becoming one of the biggest state pathologists who truly made her mark. This book is a very important book to read as it gives an in-depth insight into a successful pathologist career, while showing respect and professionalism. I would recommend this book if you love watching crime documentaries/shows or find criminology interesting.

BY FIONNUALA KEARNEY This book is about 'one love, two people, twenty years', a very passionate storyline about two lovers who go through their ups and downs through their 20 years of being together. The story is told through alternating chapters that go back and forth in time.

This storyline brings you on a journey through 3 EMOTIONAL RESILIENCE - HOW TO SAFE GUARD YOUR how characters Erin and Dom first met, how it's MENTAL HEALTH BY DR. HARRY BARRY going, and how it went. This This book is written by best selling author and highly respected GP Dr. Harry book can bring you through Barry. He reveals how to really find emotional resilience a mixture of emotions. I in whatever life throws your way, giving you the tools to personally found it quite safeguard your mental health. This book mainly offers you emotional at times but very motivation and key solutions on how to deal with negative realistic and relatable. I parand positive aspects in your life. In this book, Dr. Harry ticularly loved the notes that Barry recommends using unique techniques such as floodthey wrote to each other and ing, pragmatism and mindfulness to help your self confihow much this helped their dence and improve your mental resilience. I would always relationship. I would highly recommend this book to absolutely anyone. The one thing recommend this book if you every human being can relate to is mental health and we all like passionate and romantic want to learn how to improve ourselves. Especially during storylines. our current pandemic, this book is a must read.

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Arts & Entertainment 13

THURSDAY, FEB 11 2021

Lahinch artist hopeful to continue tradition of painting US presidents TADHG HOLLAND

M

news@clareecho.ie

ICHAEL Hanrahan has been living and working in Lahinch as an artist during his 16 year career which has included producing paintings for the Queen, Barack Obama and Donald Trump.

Originally from Dublin, Michael moved to Lahinch in 2005 to begin his career as an artist having been a bank manager in AIB for nearly four decades. "I got very tired of working in an office for 38 years. I just said listen I've had enough of that I want to follow my interest and my passion for art," he told The Clare Echo this week.

Michael had a connection to Clare going back to his teenage years when his father worked in a bank in Ennistymon and described moving to Lahinch as "kind of like coming home".

In 2011 Michael became the official artist for Queen Elizabeth II's historic visit to Ireland. Michael had been working on the cruise ships of Cunard line teaching water colour painting to the passengers when on the way from India to Dubai, Michael saw

a Sky news Bulletin announcing the Queen would be coming Ireland.

"I knew it was going to be an important visit historically and politically and I wrote to Buckingham Palace putting myself forward as the artist for the visit," said Michael.

"Three days before she came Department of Foreign Affairs wrote to me and said 'listen we have 1,200 journalists and we have one artist and you're the artist so get up to Dublin quickly and start recording what you see'".

Michael produced a number of paintings of the event and after the visit he wrote to the Queen asking if she would like one of the artworks. Michael said he "couldn't believe his eyes" when the Queen wrote back asking him to bring one of the paintings to Buckingham Palace.

Aer Lingus flew Michael and his family to Heathrow where they were picked up in a Bentley and taken to Buckingham Place to deliver his painting of the Queen and President Mary McAleese laying a wreath at the garden of remembrance.

The Queen later requested two more paintings which Michael brought to her. He also received a letter from Edward Young the deputy private secretary to the Queen thanking him for his "most thoughtful gift".

His paintings now sit in the Royal Collec-

tion alongside the works of the likes of Rembrandt and Caravaggio.

"That changed my life" said the now 70 year old artist, "I'm the only Irish living artist in the Royal Collection. Seven of the paintings were put into an art auction in October 2011. There was a guide price of around €8,000 on the paintings but they made over €21,000. So people said wait a second he was the artist, the only official artist, so let's buy them and then Christie's in London auctioned another one and that sold very well also" When President Obama came to Ireland that same year Michael again got the opportunity to paint his visit. One of the paintings was sent to the White House and in return Michael received a letter signed by both Barack and Michelle Obama saying, "We would like to extend our deepest thanks for your kind gift. Your thoughtfulness and generosity are appreciated."

However, Obama wasn't the only US president to get one of Michael's paintings.

Donald Trump also received an artwork from Michael when he visited Clare in 2019, a painting of the 14th hole on the Doonbeg Golf Course with Trump's hotel in the background. Michael received no letter of thanks on that occasion.

Michael had still been working as an

Nationwide to feature Burren POPULAR RTÉ television show Nationwide is to broadcast a special programme about the Burren this Monday, February 15th.

The programme will feature members of the Burren Ecotourism Network, who recently won the Lonely Planet’s

‘Best in Travel 2021’ accolade for community tourism.

Presenter Anne Cassin visited Ailwee Cave and Birds of Prey Centre in Ballyvaughan, went foraging with Oonagh O’Dwyer from ‘Wild Kitchen’ and met Cathal and Bronagh O’Rourke on their farm in

lWILD: Foraging on the Flaggy Shore

Boston.

In Ennistymon the film crew met other local business people, including Jarlath O’Dwyer, CEO of the Burren Ecotourism Network who has an office in the ‘Digital Hub’ in Parliament Street.

He said: “We were delighted to welcome the Nationwide crew to North Clare. While many of the local tourism businesses look forward to opening again in 2021, the main questions that they all have are “when?” and “will we be able to stay open and avoid another lockdown?”.

We are all being realistic and know that we will be dependent on the Irish market again this summer.”

lROYAL VISIT: Michael Hanrahan outside Buckingham Palace

art teacher on cruises until recently when COVID-19 brought an end to that but he describes the paintings he has been doing over lockdown as "probably my best work."

As for what's next for Michael, he seems to have his eye on yet another US president "I would love to paint the visit of President Biden when he comes to Ireland and I have no doubt he will be in Ireland hopefully within the next 12 months," he predicted.

Kulczynski family progress to Fittest Family semi finals A CLARE family excelled once again with a blistering performance from the Kulczynskis seeing them take another step towards the €15k cash prize for the winners of Ireland's Fittest Family, writes Páraic McMahon.

'Hanging Tough' has become a firm favourite among viewers of the RTÉ show with Luca Kulczynski blitzing the challenge on Sunday evening. He managed to hang onto a bar suspended 20 feet in the air above freezing cold water for five minutes and thirty two seconds which was the third best time ever recorded in the eight series of the show.

As a result of winning both this challenge and Pontoon of Pain, Leroy, Nicola, Sabian and Luca flew into the semi-fi-

nals of the competition.

Fifteen year old Luca was regarded by viewers as one of the stars of Sunday's episode along with 20 year old Ruth Allen from Tipperary.

Such was his prowess that his school Rice College publicly lauded his performance expressing their pride at his leadership.

Derval O'Rourke is the mentor for the Clarecastle family who will be hoping to end the hoodoo of no Clare clan winning the show.

Indeed the concept for the programme was created by two Clare men, James Sexton of Shannon and Sixmilebridge's Davy Fitzgerald who has been a mentor on the show from the first episode.

14 COLUMNIST

THURSDAY, FEB 11 2021

Eoin Neylon

An inside look at Clare’s political spectrum With

With With

Transparency is still lacking in the beef industry while The Clare Echo’s farming columnist Joe Melody questions what achievements have been made by The Beef Plan in 2019

T

HE past few days have seen an at times exponential growth in the numbers of cows calving.

We are now at 28% of the dairy herd calved after a calving start date of February 1st.

So far so good with an almost 50:50 split in gender.

Our hectic spring schedule has been made all the more manageable by the addition of our neighbour and friend Jack Enright to the team. Jack is studying environmental science and agricultural management in GMIT. He is doing is placement with us and we are very lucky to have him. Hailing

from a dairy and beef farm, he has all the prerequisites of good stockman-ship and a strong work ethic.

After a wet start to our grazing plans, the cows are back to grazing full-time with one change this year.

We are offering them about one kg of haylage as they leave the parlour.

This is to help the transition for fresh calved cows from a diet of silage to a diet of predominantly grass.

It seems to be working okay.

We have a target to graze 40% of the farm before the start of March.

This is to stimulate the grass plant and enable it to replenish itself so there will be enough grass on these paddocks by the first of

HECTIC: Joe Melody shows off one of his spring calves

April for the second grazing round.

It is disappointing this week to see the beef factories ceasing their opportunity to cut beef prices. This comes against the backdrop of strong demand for beef in our key markets of the U.K. and the European Union.

The supermarket price for beef in the UK has risen in the past week alone.

It’s very disheartening from a farmer’s point of view to see these cuts coming at a time where cash flow is so important coming out of the winter period especially with the unsustainably high cost base a winter cattle finishing system incurs.

After numerous reports on the beef industry aiming at transparency over the years, we are still none the wiser as farmers as to what level of profit each animal is leaving the processor. With the establishment of a lobby group just a few short years ago whose main interest was beef farming, the question now has to be asked what has that group delivered for farmers apart from a lengthy disruption to trade in the autumn of 2019.

The beef industry is now made up of a few huge processors who run super efficient operations, it is not obvious that each animal they kill is leaving them a huge margin. When we as farmers don’t have transparency as to what they can afford to pay for cattle were left with a niggling feeling that we are being inadequately remunerated for our stock.

Suspicion abounds in this sector and rightly so because farmers are made feel as if their livelihood is constantly under existential threat. How can anyone plan for the future under these conditions, either to our great benefit or our great cost farmers are a resilient bunch so they will persevere.

How have TDs handled first year?

I

T’S a year this week since the people of Clare went to the polls and cast their vote in the General Election.

When the dust had settled, 3 of the outgoing TD’s were not returned, one by choice, two by the will of the people.

The only one left standing, Joe Carey, had been widely tipped as the TD most in danger of losing out.

However, the Clarecastle native proved his detractors wrong once more and himself as one of the great political survivors in modern Banner politics.

A year on, however, how do the 4 TD’s stack up in terms of performance?

With biases put as far aside as possible, here is how I see their report cards for their work over the past 12 months.

Michael McNamara: The Scariff man’s return to the Dáil was widely predicted ahead of the election but his elevation, with the aid of Government TD votes, to chair of the Oireachtas Covid committee soon after did catch some people off guard.

He has wasted little time in finding his voice in the chamber too, with some stinging criticisms of all and sundry around him, as well as fighting for several local causes like the status of Shannon Heritage.

His time has not been controversy free though, with McNamara being accused of pandering to the anti-mask/lockdown brigade with some of the rhetoric and questions he has used, as well as initially refusing to say whether he would get a vaccine once available.

He has since clarified his position, but he could have done with avoiding the

questions altogether by being more forthright.

Cathal Crowe: The then mayor of Clare shot to national prominence ahead of the election with his criticism of Fine Gael plans to commemorate the RIC, and with them, the Black and Tans.

The, now former, primary school teacher, and history aficionado, gleefully confirmed recently that the planned commemoration had now been indefinitely deferred. Crowe was rumoured to be in the running for a Junior Ministry until an alleged interjection saw Niall Collins of Limerick given the title.

Crowe has been widely outspoken, particularly on transport and education matters, and has proven himself savvy media operator since taking the Fianna Fáil seat from his colleague Timmy Dooley.

His appointment as FF spokesman on Tourism and Aviation will be seen as a boost for Clare and Shannon Airport in particular.

He has had to fend off sustained media attention and some “fake news” since taking office though, most recently surrounding a false accusation of a breach of Covid regulations.

This is something he will have to contend with more and more as time goes on.

Joe Carey: As mentioned above, Carey has proven his survival instinct time and again. His ground game is the secret to his success as he covers the ground, dealing effectively with constituency queries as well as lobby groups from c om mu n i ties across the county, whether the local cause may be. He is not known as a strong media performer, but that said, he

does well to avoid any major gaffs by knowing his limitations in this regard.

He is known within wider FG circles as a safe pair of hands, but given his media and legislative weaknesses, he was never in the running for a Junior Ministry.

That said, with the end of Pat Breen’s time in public office, this leaves Carey as the standard bearer for FG in the county.

As such, for the party’s sake, he will need to be more vocal in promoting FG to his constituents if they are to recover ground lost in Clare in recent years.

Violet-Anne Wynne (inset): Arguably the single worst start of any TD of the 33rd Dáil to their time in office, save perhaps two former Agriculture Ministers.

Her surprise success in taking Provisional Sinn Féin’s first ever Dáil seat in Clare, led to much celebration in SF circles, but those were short lived as revelations about her debts to a, since folded, housing charity hit the headlines.

This was further compounded by even more poor headlines as Wynne lashed out on social media at constituents who were demanding answers, accusing them of being agents of defeated TD’s who she also described in less than parliamentary terms.

This prompted SF HQ to lock her accounts and effectively ban the TD from social media temporarily as they tried to bunker the mess.

Since then, she has stayed out of the headlines, but too much so. She has failed to gain much traction for the work she has done since with the recent exception of co-sponsoring a bills on Equality, one of two she has co-sponsored since her election.

Being the only one new to political office means the learning curve has been steep but there remains a lot of ground to make up for Wynne.

FEATURES 15

THURSDAY, FEB 11 2021

GREEN CLARE

Michelin recognises sustainability efforts of two Clare restaurants CIAN O’BROIN

T

cianobroin@clareecho.ie

WO Clare restaurants have been recognised at the Michelin Star awards for their efforts in promoting and supporting sustainable practices.

Lisdoonvarna’s The Wild Honey Inn and Doolin’s Gregan’s Castle were commended for their efforts alongside three Galway restaurants who were awarded the brand new ‘Michelin Green Star.’

Kai and Loam restaurants in Galway city were selected, along with the Inis Meáin Restaurant and Suites on the Aran Islands.

They are the only Irish restaurants to be given the new accolade, out of a total of 23 businesses selected in Ireland and in the UK. The Michelin Green Star “highlights restaurants at the forefront of the industry when it comes to their sustainable practices and who act as role models to us all.” These restaurants hold themselves to ethical and environmental standards “and work with sustainable producers and suppliers to avoid waste and reduce or even remove plastic and other non-recyclable materials from their supply chain.”

The Michelin Guide outlines that 46 restaurants across the UK and Ireland have also been identified as taking positive steps to work in a greener way, and their listings come with one-line descriptions of some of their initiatives, with the Wild Honey Inn and Gregan’s Castle being listed here.

Commendation was offered to both restaurants in relation to their commitment to sustainable gastronomy. The initiative listed under Gregan’s Castle was being a “Founding member of The Burren Ecotourism Network,” which is a network of tourism enterprises with the objective of establishing the Burren as a premier internationally recognised sustainable tourism region.

Their environmental policy states that they “take the potential negative effects on the environment that the activities of our business can cause very seriously.” As members of The Green Hospitality Programme which is the only Irish developed environmental certification standard for the hospitality sector, Gregan’s Castle have taken several actions to minimize their environmental footprint.

These include: Food waste and waste office paper collected for composting, all garden waste is composted and then reused in the garden. All heating and hot water is generated by new and efficient combi condensing gas and oil boilers. An energy usage monitoring system, is in place as well as low energy led and halogen light bulbs and their timber is trimmed from their own trees for firewood.

“We bottle our own water from our own private mountain spring for use in our bedrooms and restaurant. All glass bottles are reused. The same mountain spring supplies the hotel. We use an onsite natural reed and willow bed treatment system which purifies all wastewater generated by the hotel. We have an established herb garden for use by our kitchen. In 2019 we established a vegetable garden. Each year we carry out a cleanup of litter from The Corkscrew Hill,” they added.

Under the Wild Honey Inn, Michelin Guide stated that the environmental initiative worthy of commendation was the fact that “Electricity is from wind farms and cooking gas is 100% renewable BioLPG.” This personally run inn that started life as an 1860s hotel is also a One Star Michelin Pub. Their environmental policy states: “Our aim is to positively impact the community in which we operate through energy-efficient practices and environmental education, while maintaining high-quality services to our guests.

“We acknowledge the need for responsible and sustainable environmental management at all levels and will strive to incorporate

lAWARD: (left) The Wild Honey Inn and (above) Gregan’s Castle

good environmental practices into all of our decisions and operations.”

The Wild Honey Inn also monitor and record their environmental impacts on a regular basis and set targets to continually improve their sustainability. This includes low energy lighting, water waste notices to guests, toiletries used in bathrooms are free from parabens, phthalates or artificial colours as well as working with suppliers to reduce and reuse packaging on all products supplied, to name a few.

Conservation also lies at the hear of their policy whereby “We have created a natu-

ral biodiverse garden free of chemicals and pesticides. To encourage birds, insects and wildlife into the garden we have installed birdfeeders, bug boxes and planted native flowers and shrubs. A portion of the proceeds from the purchase of toiletries we use in our guest bathrooms supports honeybee and sustainable pollination research.”

“We are committed to making our guests and staff aware of environmental issues and the responsibilities they have to the environment, through guest information and communication and by induction, meetings and training of our staff,” they added.

16 FEATURES

Power of love

RONAN SCULLY

Thought for the week

L

IKE many of our yearly special events and occasions, St.Valentine’s Day will be celebrated this year in lockdown because of the restrictions in place to alleviate the causes of the Coronavirus. Also in the past few years St. Valentine's day like many other special days has become commercialised. The focus on love and romance for couples can leave many people feeling left out and even lost.

According to history, St. Valentine’s Day which we celebrate on the 14th February was not associated with romantic love until the Middle Ages. If you are waiting for this day to come around so that you can show your love, you are missing a part of life that should be valued for more than once yearly.

So if you haven't already, instead of the emphasis on expensive displays of affection, why not take a more spiritual approach to St. Valentine’s Day and try and keep real love all the year around for real love really does set you free?

The expression of love to another should not be reserved for a single day or for a special event or occasion. The celebration of real love is more about how you live each day with the one you love and care for.

This St. Valentine’s Day you may well have probably either sent or received a valentine from someone.

But just like many of our special celebratory days, you don't have to be held hostage to commercial interests. A true celebration of love can be so much more than an obligatory sharing of chocolate, prosecco or if you're in the money maybe champagne, or candlelight dinners, and this celebration of love doesn't require anything more than the depths and richness of your own sweet beautiful heart and soul.

There’s a lot more behind it than just cards and gifts.There’s a truelife story. It’s a story that teaches us a lot about love, sacrifice, care, strength and commitment, the true meaning of St. Valentine’s Day and a meaning that we should aspire to keep all year around! Historians hopefully will be happy with me following these historic facts!!!

The Real Valentine

In the third century, the Roman Empire was ruled by Emperor Claudius II Gothicus. He was nicknamed Claudius the Cruel because of his harsh leadership and his tendency for getting into wars and abusing his people.

In fact, he was getting into so many wars during the third cen-

tury that he was having a difficult time recruiting enough soldiers.

Claudius believed that recruitment for the army was down because Roman men did not want to leave their loved one's or families behind, so he canceled all marriages and engagements in Rome.

Thousands of couples saw their hopes of matrimony dashed by the single act of a tyrant. And no one seemed interested in standing up to the emperor. But a simple Christian priest named Valentine did come forward and stood up for love. He began to secretly marry soldiers before they went off to war, despite the emperor’s orders.

In 269 A.D., Emperor Claudius found out about the secret ceremonies. He had Valentine thrown into prison and deemed that he would be put to death.

As Valentine was awaiting execution, he healed a blind girl who happened to be the jailer’s daughter. On the eve of his execution, with no writing instruments available, Valentine is said to have written her a sonnet in ink that he squeezed from violets. He supposedly finished the farewell note signed “from your Valentine.”

Legend has it that his words made the blind woman see again. The next day Valentine was clubbed to death by Roman executioners.

St. Valentine gave his life so that young couples could be bonded together in holy matrimony. They may have killed the man, but not his spirit.

Even centuries after his death, the story of Valentine’s self-sacrificing commitment to love was legendary in Rome and spread worldwide. Eventually, he was granted sainthood and the Catholic Church decided to create a feast in his honor. They picked February 14th as the day of celebration because of the ancient belief that birds (particularly lovebirds, but also owls and doves) began to mate on that very day.

Concept of Love

So in writing and researching this thought for the week, it’s surprising to know that St. Valentine’s Day is really founded on the concept of love in marriage and in relationships. On this St. Valentine’s Day, what are you doing to keep the love in your marriage and your relationship's burning not just on St. Valentine's day but all year around?

While giving a box of chocolates, a bouquet of flowers and cards, having a candlelight dinner, and sharing special words of love are all really important, the true spirit

of St. Valentine’s Day needs to last throughout the year.

So rather than focus on material gifts and exclusive relationships, why not examine the spiritual side?

Remember celebrating St. Valentine’s Day was meant to be shared by everyone without exclusions. Now is the time to bring real love for everyone especially those most in need in our world back into our life today. Examine your relationships to see if you’ve been excluding anyone lately, maybe a loved one, a family member or a friend. If so, this would be a good time to reconnect and express your care and concern.

Or perhaps you’ve had a falling out with someone. Let this day be a reminder to let go of past mistakes and resentments. Use your St. Valentine’s Day to symbolize real love, forgiveness, mercy, kindness and healing. In the course of a lifetime, it is the accumulation of all the little things that express that love whether that is verbally or with actions.

Thought for the week

As your thought for the week, seek out opportunities to think about those people who are often forgotten on these special days.

Those who are elderly, alone, abandoned, orphaned, ill, homeless or living on the edges of our society need our love too. Remember them in your giving, prayers, intentions and meditations.

If you have the chance to volunteer your time, money or resources to help those in need or good charities that help so many worthy causes please make the effort to do so and do so all the year around.

Express if you can more than anything for our country and world the love of real selfless charity!

So, remember your relationships will have more meaning if you celebrate Valentine's Day each and every day of the year by showing your love every day! Here is a prayer I love to say now and then when love is the only answer needed - THE LOVE PRAYER - Today I remove all boundaries and walls, Once used as a means of defence, I forgive those things from the darkened past, That in love’s divine realm make no spiritual sense. Releasing all worries, all burdens and doubt, I bring light to the shadows of fear. By centering myself with a loving thought, Harsh judgments I no longer hear.

The greatest experience that life has to give, Is love from an open heart, For it moves me to appreciate all there is, And I’m one with it all, not apart.

It’s love that brings me closer to God, And leads me according to God’s way, Love’s light warms my spirit, it nurtures my soul, And assures me everything is okay. I am one with God and never apart, As I live this day with an open loving heart. Amen.

THURSDAY, FEB 11 2021

Casey giving Childline a lift with pull-up challenge PÁRAIC MCMAHON

A

paraic@clareecho.ie

N ENNIS man is hoping his exercises of 100 pullups per day will give vulnerable children a needed lift.

Twenty seven year old, Michael Casey is completing 100 pull-ups every day for a period of 100 days to raise funds and awareness of ISPCC Childline.

To date, over €3,000 has been donated to his fundraiser.

Continued lockdowns have increased the need for financial support for Childline, Michael stated. An increase in calls and messages have been recorded by the charity with children and teenagers reaching out.

"Children have been neglected during this pandemic and they are not immune to mental health problems," he flagged and referenced how their day to day routine has been "completely uprooted".

"Childline is a fantastic charity that helps vulnerable children and teenagers who feel like they have no one else to turn to when times are tough.

Due to the pandemic, Childline are unable to raise funds in their normal manner and will rely on online donations to keep them going," Casey explained. On average, Childline is receiving 800 contacts per day with demand for the service increasing.

Daily videos are being posted by Michael on social media to keep supporters updated.

He was hopeful further donations would be made as his efforts continue. "We, as a nation, have always been strongest and most resilient when we have been together and I believe a cause like this will help people come together in doing something good for a wonderful charity".

Michael who works in Cahercalla Daycare Centre decided in November he wanted to do a fundraiser for Childline with the original intention to complete it at Spartan Fitness Gym on the Gort Rd in Ennis which would encourage more individuals to get involved.

As the gyms remain closed, he has done the first 42 days of the challenge at home and on the monkey bars at The Fair Green.

He has encouraged the people of Clare to do 100 pullups a day. Fellow Clare men, Jake O'Loughlin and Eoin Dobbin are among those to also take on the challenge along with groups in Cork. Exercise is vital for individuals struggling during the lockdown, Michael maintained. "It's so important not to let the days go by without doing something to be active. We will get through this lockdown, and exercise will ensure you will get through it in a much healthier and happier place".

Donate at: www.idonate.ie/ fundraiser/11395706_100-pullups-a-day-for-100-days.html

lHANGING AROUND: Michael Casey

Photo by Fiona McNamara

COMMUNITY 17

THURSDAY, FEB 11 2021

SPRING WATCH

Send your photos to editor@clareecho.ie

ONLINE CLARE ROOTS SOCIETY

THE Clare Roots Society will hold a meeting on February 18th at 8pm via Zoom.

Topic: The War of Independence in Clare - a broad overview by Dr Joe Power.

Dr Joe Power is a native of Clarecastle. He taught history and geography for 43 years at Kilrush CBS (1973-1992) and at Kilrush Community School (1992-2016).

He is keenly interesed in history and his publications include: A History of Clare Abbey and Killone (1987); The GAA in Clare Castle 18871987,(1987); A History of Clare Castle and its Environs, (2004); Clare and the Great War. (2015); Clare and the War of Independence (2020); and Clare and the Civil War (2020).

Besides these works, he has contributed many articles to local historical journals.

CRANNY ROAD SAFETY

lLOVE NEST: Birds of a feather in Shannon Photo by Richard Quinn

lFRESH CATCH: An otter fishes for his lunch in Aylevarroo, Kilrush

Photo by John Glynn

lSPRINGING ALONG: Lambs race by a fence in

Glencolumbkille in Carron Photo by Burren Eye Photography

KILRUSH SHANAKYLE LIGHTING

KILRUSH residents visiting the graves of their loved ones have put the need for additional street lighting in the West Clare town back into focus, writes Páraic McMahon.

Installation of additional street lighting along the Shanakyle Rd to St Senan's Graveyard has been sought in Kilrush.

Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) tabled a motion on the matter at the January meeting of the West Clare Municipal District and also sought an update on the upgrade of street lights in Kilrush town to LED lighting.

Executive engineer of Clare County Council's transportation department, Pat Lynch stated that no funding was available in the maintenance budget for the extra lighting along the Shanakyle Rd. The public lighting LED retrofit contract has been submitted with a proposed start in Cork this July, "as this contract requires the contractor to complete Cork before moving onto the next county it will be well into 2022 before they reach Clare and I am not in a position to give a date when the changing of lights in Kilrush

KILMIHIL will commence".

Costs associated with upgrading "can vary significantly" depending on the wattage of the light or the condition of the bracket, the engineer explained.

He was also unable to provide exact costs on the installation of new lights on an existing ESB poll compared with a new pole.

Cllr Lynch said he was contacted regarding a shortage of lighting on approach to St Senan's Graveyard.

With people feeling isolation a bit more during the third lockdown, he said it has resulted in visits to the graveyard as a source of comfort "but a couple of them have been caught out with the light".

He committed to spending some of his General Municipal Allocation on the lighting if a costing was forthcoming.

"I would love to have seen some bit of detail on the cost of the poles," Cllr Shane Talty (FF) stated.

He recalled a previous motion on new lighting which he felt was "dismissed" by the local authority. "Each pole is different but I'm pretty sure we could estimate within the nearest thousand euro," he concluded.

RESTORATION

PIER damage has occurred on multiple occasions to a Kilmihil homeowner due to the condition of the R484, a West Clare representative has claimed, writes Páraic McMahon.

Restoration works on the R484 from Knockalough Crossroads to Kilmihil were sought by Cllr Gabriel Keating (FG) at the January meeting of the West Clare Municipal District. He singled out the bend at the residence of Michael Ryan “where there have been many accidents and damage caused to the entrance wall and piers to his house”.

Senior executive engineer, Alan Kennelly detailed that the 2021 roadworks programme had yet to be finalised but said the addition of the R484 would be contem-

plated.

“It is in a bad state there is no doubt about that,” Cllr Keating outlined, “Michael Ryan has lost two or three piers and he has gone along and replaced them himself”.

He called the road the “gateway to Doonbeg Golf Club and Clean Ireland”.

According to the former chairman of the Clare Football Board, “most of the traffic going west on the road are damaged on the left-hand side because most of the trucks on the other side are empty and it’s not to do with Brexit”.

Kilrush representative, Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) admitted that the matter had been raised by Cllr Keating on several occasions.

He admitted that he thought it was included on last year’s programme.

AN AVERAGE of one accident a year has highlighted the need for safety measures to be implemented at Cranny Cross, an elected representative of Clare County Council has stated, writes Páraic McMahon.

Both Clare County Council and Transport Infrastructure Ireland were name-checked by Cllr PJ Kelly (FF) as the two main bodies that must put public safety first and address concerns at the junction at the intersection of the N68 and L2138 (Cranny Cross).

A road safety inspection programme completed by the TII has identified that Cranny Cross is in need of a road safety improvement measure, senior executive engineer with the road design section of the local authority, John Gannon confirmed.

"The Road Design office in conjunction with the TII have commenced the evaluation phase and will report back to the MD later this year once the initial design and approval phases have concluded".

"It is a problem we have had for a long time," Cllr Kelly told the most recent sitting of the West Clare Municipal District.

"The plans are one thing, carrying out the work is another thing. There is an average of an accident a year there".

Previous accidents at Cranny Cross have resulted in one fatality and another person being made "an invalid for life," the Lissycasey representative added.

He stated that a local farmer is willing to co-operate to complete the works.

Cllr Ian Lynch (IND) supported the proposal.

"He has been consistent and has come up with solutions. I hope we get it over the line".

SIXMILEBRIDGE ALLEYWAY WORKS

ASSESSMENTS on the need to complete a Sixmilebridge alleyway will be undertaken by the local authority, writes Páraic McMahon.

An assessment to determine the level of works required to the back alleyway at the rear of houses on the Lodge Road in Sixmilebridge is to be organised by staff within the Shannon Municipal District.

Senior executive engineer, Tom Mellett outlined, "Once complete an appropriate source of funding will need to be identified".

It followed a motion by Cllr Pat O'Gorman seeking the work be completed.

"There is not an awful amount of work left, I wouldn't have a problem allocating GMA if it was needed to get the job over the line," he commented.

"This is another motion see-sawing for a number of years. It needs a little bit to finish it off," Cllr PJ Ryan (IND) said in support of O'Gorman's proposal.

There has been an abundance of motions tabled relating to "this road," Cllr John Crowe (FG) noted. He informed the meeting trees had been cut in the vicinity in recent weeks and added his support for the works to be finished. "It would be great to get it over the line".

18 ADVERTISING

THURSDAY, FEB 11 2021

2020

ONLINE STATISTICS

6,123,178 pageviews in 2020

290,959 our most read article of 2020

1,393,970 new users visited our website in 2020

907,304 pageviews in the month of April

THURSDAY, FEB 11 2021

ONLINE SHOPPING

19

CLARE

Conroy keeps fun going online CIAN O’BROIN

news@clareecho.ie

F

ITNESS4FUN began in 2015 on a programme in conjunction with Clare Sports Partnership, HSE Health Promotion Unit and the North Clare Primary Team with the aim to roll out exercise throughout Clare for people over the age of 50.

Founder John Conroy is a native of North Clare and is an experienced and qualified fitness coach. John has 15 years of experience working as a GAA coach and has worked with various community, voluntary, state organisations and private companies in Ireland dealing with all age groups.

He divides his time between County Clare and assisting with charity work in Uganda.

Each summer, John uses the exercises taught in Fitness4Fun in a hospice called Hospice Jinja in the East African country.

Previously working as a horticulturist, John undertook a part-time course at the University in Limerick which specialised in Active Older Adults. Fitness4Fun offers fitness programmes tailored for groups of active adults and cancer survivors. John’s qualifications also allow for the incorporation of chair yoga, gentle yoga and corporate

yoga. He is currently studying yoga for the lower back.

In 2019, John qualified in a course conducted in California called ‘yoga for cancer’, being the sole Irish person with that practice and qualification, which is put to use at Fitness4Fun. “Classes are conducted either seated or standing. There are exercises modified to suit people of all ranges of ability. A lot of what I am doing is bone health and bone strength. It improves people’s posture and their alignment. Many of my clients can’t leave the house at the moment and with that comes a lack of bone strength, movement and flexibility. This makes people more independent and gives them more power to do everyday things like walking, shopping and gardening,” he stated.

John is now operating Fitness4Fun online, due to restrictions. Pre-COVID, he was running a total of 17 classes throughout County Clare. With the help of the Clare Enterprise Board, he has managed to get online classes up and running. Online fitness classes are currently running at 10am on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday morning for €6 each.

“On Fitness4fun Facebook page, I have a closed Facebook group with each of the 3 days listed below. Once payment is gone through you will be invited into the group.

“On Facebook, add me, John Conroy, as a friend and click on Fitness4fun,” he concludes.

More information can be obtained on www.fitness4fun.ie.

Discover The Joy Of Movement

Fitness programmes tailored to groups of Active Adults and groups of cancer survivors We concentrate on developing four main areas:

Contact

l Picture is Fitness4Fun founderJohn Conroy

John Conroy t: 087 6666927 e: info@fitness4fun.ie

20 THURSDAY, FEB 11 2021

Food, Drink and Valentines

VALENTINE’S DAY TREATS IN CLARE

W

ITH the most romantic day of the year falling this Sunday, we here at The Clare Echo would like to remind our readers that love is in the air. So with that in mind, we bring you some small ideas to help you make the most of this opportunity to enjoy a special day – after all, they’re few and far between at the moment!

FLOWERS, THE CLASSIC TOUCH The age-old classic of telling someone you love them with a big bunch of flowers will always be appreciated by the one you love. And there are plenty of local options when it comes to getting a beautiful arrangement to suit all budgets – but time is running out so pick up the phone today. Victorian Posy florists (065 5828762) based in Abbey Street Car Park, Vaughan Garden Centre (065 689 3408) on the Gort Rd, Ennis, and Blossoms On The Go (086 340 5236) in Hermitage, are al offering bouquets of roses in all colours and numerations.

A VIRTUAL NIGHT OUT If you want to go the extra mile and bring your favourite night out into your home, there are a number of local eateries offering Valen-

tine’s Day specials so you can gorge over some wonderful local produce in the comfort of your home – perfect to get you in the mood for some romance! SweetnGreen Café (065 6821734) in Ennis are offering a Valentines date night deal including a starter, two mains, one dessert and one bottle of red or white wine for €45. The Old Ground Hotel (065 6828127) are offering a Valentine’s gift box including a bottle of prosecco, a selection of canapes to begin, a Newbridge scented candle, Lily O’Brien chocolates, Old Ground white and dark chocolate mousse with chocolate cookies and shortbread for €49. If you’re based in the Shannon area, the four-star Shannon Springs Hotel (061 364 588) and the exquisite Carrygerry House Hotel (061 360 500) in Newmarket-on-Fergus are both offering their wonderful weekend takeaway offerings.

There are numerous local food producers and jewellers who have a wonderful range of products to make this the perfect Valentines Day, so please support local as you celebrate this weekend!

Valentines Weekend @ HOME

Love is......

Giving the gift of good food

Date Night Deal

CHOOsE: 1 starter 2 Mains (Choice of any) 1 Dessert 1 Bottle of Red or White Wine

Dry Aged Local Grass-Fed Beef OPEN 6 DAYS

Mon - Saturday 8am-6pm (late opening Fri & Sat till 6.30pm)

€45.00

1-2 Turnpike, Ennis, Co.Clare  065 6823906

Full menu available online/social media, order: www.sweetngreen.ie or Phone: 065 68 21 734 or 087 620 6080 PickuP (4 - 6Pm) : Friday 12th or saturday 13th February - book early!

A traditional butcher supplying fresh Locally Sourced Meats wtih a Friendly Neighbourhood Atmosphere for the past 25 years

Crab & Salmon Pot €3.00 SuPPlement

THURSDAY, FEB 11 2021

21

Food, Drink and Valentines

Producing Award Winning Pork for 46 Years CIAN O’BROIN

news@clareecho.ie

M

EERE’S has been providing the country with highly acclaimed pork products for 46 years now. A small family run business on the outskirts of Quinn, County Clare, Meere’s butchers was established in 1975 by Patrick and Oliver.

At the same time, Patrick’s interest lay in producing homemade pudding and sausages, for which a self-contained purpose-built unit was constructed in Quinn. Both businesses are thriving today.

Speaking to The Clare Echo on taking the reins, Barry Meere stated “I was born the year after it all began, 1976, so you could say, I was born into it. The unit dad built is alongside the family home. Family life ran hand in hand with the business, there was no such thing as having a job. My first job was learning to pack puddings, it was ideal for me as I had small hands

and could easily get them into the small vac bags.”

Barry noted that a big change came for the family when he joined the food academy with SuperValu. This involved implementing a fresh new marketing strategy. The family entered their first competition in 2015 as the business turned 40 years old. “It was a phenomenal success,” Barry stated. Three generations attended the Blas Food Awards that year, ranging in ages from four years old all the way up to 74.

Meere’s produce their own sausage and pudding, with their own unique recipes. All of their pork is of Irish origin and is sourced from Rosderra. In 2008, Meere’s products were brought to market in Tesco Ennis, Kilrush and Coonagh Cross in Limerick. At this point, the Quinn family run business were already supplying over 80 independent stores in Clare. Two years later, their products went live with Dunnes Stores in Clare, Limerick and Tipperary. A Gold Q Award for best black pudding, white pudding and gold for best small producer and a silver at Blas Na hEiranne meant that sales with SuperValu,

Tesco and Dunnes increased.

Barry concedes that Meere’s promote the company as much as they can despite having a small budget for advertising. “We mainly rely on the power of social media and events.” Some of the events attended by Meere’s include the Ennis Food Festival, Bia Fest in conjunction with Clare Local Enterprise Office and the Fleadh Ennis. A feature in the Irish Farmers Journal in 2017 helped increase the growing brand as well as a number of highly prestigious awards.

In 2017, Meere’s won two golds and one silver in the Blas na hÉireann Irish Food Awards. In the same year they won gold at the Irish Quality Food Awards (IQFA) as small producer of the year. The following year gold was won at the IQFA’s for ‘Best Gourmet Sausage Roll’ and ‘Best Black Pudding.

In 2018, Meere’s launched one of their most prominent products on the Irish market, the Simply Better Black and White pudding squares. This relationship continues to flourish as “we were Awarded Dunnes Small producer of the year for our contribution to their ‘Simply Better Range.’”

l Pictured is Orlaigh Meere, Poppy Rees, Barry Rees and Bearach Rees ( Dubh + Fudge the dogs) . Picture taken at home in Quin where production is today .

Producers of Award Winning Pork Products since 1975 Tel: 065 682 5679

Quinn, Co Clare

22 THURSDAY, FEB 11 2021

Food, Drink and Valentines Kearney Cooks

WILDE-LY GOOD CAKE

I

AM a massive fan of really good chocolate, and I am delighted to say that Clare has some excellent Chocolate makers within the county. One of my favourites is Wilde Irish Chocolates situated in Tuamgraney in the east of the county. So with Valentine’s Day coming up I thought I would use some of my favourite chocolate in one of my favourite desserts, and I would make a Wilde Irish Chocolate Cheesecake.

YOU WILL NEED: • 120g Wilde Irish milk chocolate • 120g Wilde Irish dark chocolate • 400g cream cheese • 250g cream • 120g caster sugar • 1 tsp of vanilla extract • 2 packs of oreo style biscuits • 50g butter

Step 1 Take two packets of oreo style biscuits and crush them into crumbs . Mix them with 50g of melted butter and combine until they are all coated. Tip them into a lined 9 inch springform tin

and set it in the fridge until its harder than a Junior C hurler.

Step 2 Melt 120 g Wilde Irish milk chocolate and 120g of Wilde Irish dark chocolate. Set it aside to cool slightly.

Step 3 Mix 400g of cream cheese , 120g of caster sugar and a drop of vanilla extract . Mix them for a minute with a beater attachment and then switch to a whisk attachment. Add 250ml of cream and whisk it hard until you have a right thick moussey mixture.

Step 4 Fold your melted chocolate through your mix and then spoon the cream mixture onto the biscuit base, starting from the edges and working inwards, making sure that there are no air bubbles. Smooth the top of the cheesecake down with the back of a dessert spoon.

Leave to set in the fridge for a few hours.

can be rich enough so I think it’s not a bad idea to keep the garnishes simple.

Serve it up with some cream and fruit coulis and enjoy.

This dish goes down very well in our house as it combines our favourite things, chocolate and cheesecake. Its great on its own, with a nice cuppa, or at the end of a romantic meal .

I’m loving working with the fantastic producers of Clare and if you have a product that you think I might like, please feel free to message me on Instagram. Just search KearneyCooks or @Stevekearney37.

Enjoy

Steve K

Step 5 Decorate your cake however you like.

I grated some Wilde Irish Chocolate salted caramel bar on top. This dessert

Carrygerry Country House Valentine Special

"Our Home to Your"

Treat that someone special this weekend with a delicious meal from Carrygerry.

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RECRUITMENT 23

THURSDAY, FEB 11 2021

Recruitment Ei Electronics make donation to Meals on Wheels STUART HOLLY

S

editor@clareecho.ie

OUTH Clare Meals on Wheels located in Newmarket-on-Fergus will be able to purchase a new delivery van following a donation from Ei Electronics.

A Christmas Jumper Day held

by Ei Electronics in Shannon prior to the Christmas break raised €3,000 with the company matching this to present a €6,000 donation to Meals on Wheels.

Meals on Wheels delivers a two course hot meal daily to older persons in Shannon, Ennis, Newmarket on Fergus, Sixmilebridge, Bunratty, Cratloe, Clarecastle, Ballyea, Doora, and Kilkishen. Each Thursday, service users receive a free copy of The Clare Echo.

The Clare Echo is hiring…

Sales Executive

The Clare Echo is looking to hire a Sales Executive. This key position will appeal to a highly ambitious individual who a) believes in their own ability to sell and b) understands the value of advertising in The Clare Echo.

Key responsibilities

selling newspaper and online advertising space  creating leads and building client portfolio  managing and maintaining strong client relationships  hitting monthly targets set by Sales Director  regularly liaising with The Clare Echo design and editorial teams to ensure client satisfaction 

Attributes desired

strong communication skills  self-motivated and confident  team player  must be highly organised  competent with computer programmes 

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TERMS & CONDITIONS ON APPLICATION with CV to

vehicletesting@pdore.com Digital Marketing Officer

The Clare Echo is looking to hire a Digital Marketing Officer. The ideal candidate will be at the forefront of The Clare Echo’s online strategy and will be expected to bring cutting edge ideas to the table which can be executed competently in a timely manner.

Key responsibilities

maintain daily digital marketing activity; manage website and social media content  develop and drive company’s online strategy  create innovative campaigns and execute same from start to finish  identify key areas where The Clare Echo can optimise and engage with its social media and website audience; generate engagement with all age demographics  devise campaigns to help maximise The Clare Echo’s ability to communicate with business community  produce reports for The Clare Echo sales and editorial teams and give feedback on where improvements can be made  manage online advertising content  explore and implement online subscriptions; develop email marketing campaigns in tandem with our online strategy  manage potential website revamp / upgrades using resources which will be made available to you 

Experience & Skills

Digital marketing degree or similar  Experience in a similar role desirable  Adobe suite literacy  Expertise in SEO 

Submit your CV to editor@clareecho.ie or post submissions to The Editor, The Clare Echo, 36c Abbey Street, Ennis, Co Clare

24 BUSINESS

BUSINESS

THURSDAY, FEB 11 2021

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

Gavin Transport share their 60 years of experience CIAN O’BROIN

E

cian@clareecho.ie

OIN Gavin Transport Limited are a national and international licenced haulier and transport goods to and from the UK and continental Europe.

The Gavin family have been involved in the haulage industry for more than 60 years, serving local industry, agriculture and connected businesses.

The Bunratty business are now an established customs agent due to the significant impact of Brexit and not only do they move the goods on their trucks now but also take care of all the customs formalities and declarations on behalf of their customers.

Since Brexit has come into effect on January 1, 2021 Denise Gavin noted that, "there has been an impact on trade to Europe" but that the company have supported their "customer base across the MidWest Region since January 1st to continue to provide efficient transport services."

Denise stated that engagement with the Local Enterprise Office (LEO) has been a big feature for the company over the past two years. "They have been rolling out supports and training courses for businesses in our area. Since the end of 2020 we have availed of the one-to-one mentoring programme on customs workshops. This has really validated what we are doing and ensured that we were fully prepared come January 1st."

The routes from Ireland to the UK have been challenging as cus-

tomers become more familiar with customs formalities, she admitted.

"There has been an impact on trade to Europe also, but we continue to import and export utilising new direct ferries. The ultimate aim is that there is a continued flow of goods," she stated.

Eoin Gavin Transport Limited are now in a mentoring role and sharing their expertise with other businesses in the Mid-West that trade with the UK and Europe and are happy to share that expertise to ensure the continued supply of goods and support trade.

"I would advise other SME's to engage with LEO if they are experiencing any difficulties now that Brexit is a reality. Once they have that knowledge, it will get easier for businesses. The LEO are an excellent support service," she concluded.

l IBREXIT: Eoin Gavin Transport are Brexit ready

Brexit is here and it will affect small businesses in Clare. If the UK is part of your supply chain, you need to prepare.

Local Enterprise Office Clare provides dedicated advice and range of supports to help you manage your Brexit response

Checkers and Checklists Use the checklists & think about how your business may be impacted.

Customs & Lean Training Prepare your Business for Customs, learn practical skills from expert consultants at various interactive workshops or participate in a LEAN Programme to deliver efficiencies in your business.

FREE Brexit Mentoring Clients work with an experienced mentor on a one-to-one basis to identify key areas of business exposure and devleop strategies around Brexit.

Financial Assistance Businesses can avail of a range of grants including:  LEO Financial Grants  TAME Grant  Website Grant

Local Enterprise Clare can help you manage your Brexit response today!

Visit www.localenterprise.ie/brexit or email localenterprise@leo.clarecoco.ie

Sport Clare Echo THE

11-02-21

pg 25

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

VISION FOR THE FUTURE Finance, underage and structures form basis of workings of newly-established Clare GAA committees

PÁRAIC MCMAHON paraic@clareecho.ie

EXCLUSIVE

A

NUMBER of new sub-committees are to be launched within Clare GAA as part of attempts to drive the organisation forward.

The Clare Echo has learned that plans are afoot to establish sub-commit-

tees focused on finance, hurling and gaelic football.

Development of underage, the implementation of new structures and a bigger push to increase the amount of revenue obtained by Clare GAA will form the ethos of the respective groups.

Approximately half a dozen individuals will form the membership of each respective sub-committee; the individuals involved have yet to be named but are understood to include business

personnel from a range of industries, ex county players and former managers. One Clare GAA source told The Clare Echo they are now looking at “the big picture” by designing “a vision for going forward”.

Efforts to secure funding to carry out additional drainage works at Caherlohan are also ongoing. Clare GAA officials are confident that an allocation of funding will be forthcoming for the facility.

Outgoing Chairperson,

Joe Cooney previously expressed his confidence that State funding would be granted for the facility.

Close to €5m had been spent on the facility up to November 2019. Criticism of Caherlohan’s standard has been voiced with Tulla tabling a motion to County Convention urging Clare GAA to complete necessary works at the facility, “It does require a lot of work. We need to bite the bullet and get the work done,” Brian Torpey stated.

The Clare senior hurlers did not use the facility when preparing for the 2020 in-

ter-county championship while Colm Collins insisted they were content with the offering at Caherlohan.

Pat Fitzgerald in his report to Convention outlined his “ambition and intention” to have the Centre of Excellence “capable of facilitating all players playing our games both football and hurling from development squad stage right up to our adult teams within the next two years”.

Work on the establishment of the committees has been ongoing for recent months with Fitzgerald and later Chaplin leading the process.

A meeting of Clare GAA officers is to be held later this week where details on the personnel involved will become known. The functions and responsibilities of the groups is also to be outlined.

Since becoming Chairman, Chaplin’s message to fellow officers has been on the importance of togetherness with the need to put aside divisions and work cohesively highlighted.

11-02-21

Clare Echo THE

pg 26

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

THE CUTTING EDGE

WITH MICHEÁL DUFFY

What makes the GAA so special to me

C

lare GAA GDM, Micheál Duffy gets to the heart of what the GAA is about in this week’s coaching column.

What makes the GAA so special? It’s a meeting place for the entire community when U8 training is held on a Saturday morning to discuss local matters. There’s the electricity of Croke Park on All-Ireland final day.

It’s the creation of lifelong friendships, the pride of the parish and the clash of the counties. It’s the draw of men and women back to their local club instead of a travelling to a nearer counterpart and there’s

the constant efforts of clubs to produce a country star.

All these reasons are why the GAA is so special.

Where else would you find an organisation that sees people give freely of their time to the place they grew up in. People who don’t understand may say that it’s only a game, but it’s so much more than that It’s a part of who we are as Irish people. The inter-county championship brought light in one our darkest winters with the hype before and the analysis after a game shortening our weeks.

For me, nothing beats playing. The thrill of coming out on top in a tight match is a feeling

that I know many people have felt. The buzz of a winning dressing room afterwards is a great place to be while character is built from the enclosure of a broken-hearted dressing room picking up the pieces from a knockout defeat. The closest I think you can get to playing is when you try and help out and coach within your club when you see the joy on a boy or girls face after scoring a goal or a point or the satisfaction you get from helping a 7-year-old to strike the ball from their hand for the first time or their first kick off their second foot.

So what is the GAA all about? When I was growing up, my father who

Micheál Duffy.

Photograph: Burren

Eye Photography

is from Dublin told me a story about an undertaker company whose line was “we will be the last ones to let you down”. It’s true to this day and I’ve seen the GAA at its best in communities when it comes to funerals. Past players, ex teammates and the current crop all assemble to pay their respects when we witness just how big the GAA family is and that it is something bigger than ourselves. The GAA at its core is about where you’re from and the community you grew up in. Just like the days where ye battled on the field together in championship, it’s your clubmates that will be the last ones to let you down.

Bling Bling Paul shines

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AS TIPPED in The Clare Echo last week, Bling Bling Paul bounced back from defeat to win the Epic Hero Leger A4 525 Sweepstake Final at the Limerick Track on Saturday night last when wins were also recorded by former Clare hurler Sean Stack and current panellist Gary Cooney.

It was a deserved win for owner John Meehan of Newmarket-on-Fergus as this young greyhound had shown plenty of class with two wins in earlier rounds of this Stake worth €2,000 to the winner.

Clare owners and trainers had a successful night with Donal Cooney registering a nice double with Full Flight and Runontheinside landing their respective contests.

The fastest of the kennel companions was Runontheinside and he was flawless in running out a comprehensive winner. Owned by Darren and Ciaran Cooney, Runontheinside was quickest into stride to dictate the pace heading into the opening bend. From here, it was a formality for the son of Ballymac Vic - Glenlee as he raced to a two length win over Gunboat Showman in a swift 28.88.

Prior to that, Full Flight landed the spoils to make it back to back wins. Owned by Clare hurler Gary Cooney,

James Murray making the presentation to John Meehan, owner of Bling Bling Paul who landed the final of the Epic Hero Leger Winner 2020 A3 525

Full Flight ran a lovely opening corner to take charge heading into the back straight. It was a closely run affair thereafter but Full Flight held firm to seal a half length victory in 29.04.

The fastest time over the standard on the night came in race 11 as Rallying Joy ran out a most impressive winner for trainer Sean Stack of Sixmilebridge. Owned by the Rallying-Racing syndicate, the talented brindle was paw perfect last night as she pinged the lids from trap one to dominate from the outset.

Never under threat, she won by eight lengths, in a fast time of 28.69.

Two semi-finals of the Paul McKenna Memorial A5 575 yards stake formed part of Saturday’s card in Galway.

In the first semi-final, all eyes were in the Mullins-Curtin Syndictate owned Kiss An Angel who delivered by four and three-quarter lengths in 31.71 after a good tussle with Port West Salmon.

The second semi-final saw the Colm Fitzgerald and Cathal Meaney of Kilrush owned Flyers Job take command leaving the back straight after an early tussle with Rosshill Holly. The daughter of Secreto and Confey Eve eased away to defeat Creevy Fire by three and a half lengths with Dreenan Bobby in third place in 32.12.

Kiss An Angel will go to traps at short odds and should win this final on Saturday night next for the Mullins-Curtin Syndicate of Gort.

pg 27

11-02-21

Clare Echo THE

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

Frehill stays with Parish as Ryan retained by Lissycasey

Managing dual-players conby SEAMUS HAYES tinues to be a tricky task for and PÁRAIC McMAHON clubs such as St Josephs Doora/

N

EWLY promoted St. Josephs, Doora-Barefield have re-appointed the management team which led them to the intermediate football title last season.

Kevin Frehill (manager), Mikey Millane, Donagh Vaughan and Morgan Rowland took charge of the side which defeated Corofin, 1-16 to 2-8 in the 2020 final played at Cusack Park at the end of September.

“We are setting ambitious targets. We have a very young squad and coming off the back of some good wins at intermediate level, we are hoping to advance tso the next stage”, manager Kevin Frehill explained to The Clare Echo.

He is hopeful further improvement will be evident in their campaign this year. “We have improved a lot in the past two years and we are expect further improvement and to be very competitive. The age profile of the squad is good. We have added a lot of players in the past two years and there are three or four more coming in this year that we hope will bring something to the group”.

Barefield. “Managing a team in a dual club brings a lot of challenges although we had less of a crossover last year. It’s a lot to ask of players to commit to two sports. We try to look after the players and make sure that they are not over trained”, Kevin stated.

Meanwhile, John Ryan is to continue in the hotseat as Lissycasey senior football manager.

Having come within a point of last year’s senior championship winners Kilmurry Ibrickane by reaching the semi-final stage, Lissycasey will be determined to build on that progress in 2021.

To do that, they have opted to maintain their outgoing management team which is headed

by Limerick native John Ryan.

Living in Cratloe since 2006, Ryan was in charge of the Treaty County side which won the All-Ireland Junior ladies football title in 2018.

Selectors David Pyne and Noel Finnucane along with coach Liam O’Connell and strength and conditioning coach Darragh Kennedy have all committed to the cause

Kevin Frehill is raised aloft by St Josephs Doora/Barefield’s footballers Photo by Burren Eye Photography

while Jimmy Collins a two-time Junior medallist with Lissycasey in 1979 and 1981 has been added to the management team and will retain his equivalent role with the club’s junior team.

Lissycasey advanced to last year’s semi-finals following wins over Cratloe and Kilmihil, their displays were commended by the limited amount of spectators that could attend

their games in Cusack Park and Kilrush. The displays of centre-back Seamus Collins earned him a place on the team of the year as selected by contributors to the Eoin Brennan presented podcast ‘Talking Balls’ on Clare FM while Aaron Griffin was rewarded with a call-up to Colm Collins’ county panel.

Cullinan succeeds Hego Feakle appoint

by SEAMUS HAYES Bodyke’s Kelleher INAGH/KILNAMONA will have a new management for 2021 with Eugene Cullinan taking over from Fergal Hegarty.

A former player with the club, Eugene helped manage club sides to victory at minor A and B and junior A levels.

As a player he represented the club at all levels and he lined out at full forward when the club played its first game at senior level after Inagh and Kilnamona joined forces. In that tie in 2008 he scored two goals when they faced Tulla, county champions in 2007.

Eugene will be joined by Tomás Kelly who will be the team coach, Alan Griffin and Noel Hehir with Stephen Cusack in charge of strength and conditioning.

Tomás Kelly has been part of the panel over the past decade but will be concentrating on coaching the side in 2021. A member of the teaching staff at St Josephs secondary school in Tulla, he has guided

a number of school teams to Clare and Munster colleges successes in recent years.

“Everyone is in a difficult situation.

We are trying to run programmes and operate through Zoom calls. Every team is just worrying about winning one of their first two games so as to ensure being involved at senior level again next year. The Clare championship is such a competitive championship, anyone of a number of teams can win the title. O’Callaghans Mills were in the final last year while the year before they were in the relegation battle”, explained team manager Eugene Cullinan.

Speaking to The Clare Echo, he outlined, “We will be targetting the first game in the championship. We don’t know if we will have a league or not”. He acknowledged that “there are good young players coming through and we will be trying to marry these young lads with the more established players but, as a lot of clubs will tell you, that’s easier said than done”.

FEAKLE will have a new management of their senior hurlers for 2021 while their outgoing manager has been appointed St Josephs Doora/Barefield boss.

Bodyke man PJ Kelleher will manage neighbours Feakle taking over from Michael Guilfoyle. He will be joined by Feakle’s Henry Hayes and Raymond Nelson with Limerick man Tomás Downes from the Na Piarsaigh will share the coaching duties with the manager. PJ played at all grades for Bodyke before taking charge of the club’s adult team for a spell.

Speaking to The Clare Echo this week, Kelleher outlined that he was hopeful to add members of the Feakle/Killanena minor panel which contested the Minor A final last year to the senior squad. “Two of the players are recovering from injuries which saw them miss out on last season. We hope that Con Smith and Fiachra Donnellan will be available at some stage of the season. There are some good players coming through from the minor ranks which will be a good addition”.

Winners of the 2018 intermediate championship, Feakle reached the quarter-finals of the Clare SHC last season where they exited at the hands of Éire Óg. Having stepped down as Feakle manager, Michael Guilfoyle has now taken on the role in charge of St Josephs Doora/Barefield whom he had been heavily involved with at underage level. They were relegated to the intermediate ranks in 2018.

Guilfoyle succeeds Seánie McMahon and is joined by 2018 All-Ireland winner Shane Dowling in his management.

Enright stays at Clondegad

by PÁRAIC McMAHON and SEAMUS HAYES CLONDEGAD will continue with the same senior football management for 2021 while changes have been made to the Club’s Executive.

Flan Enright has been appointed as senior team manager at Clondegad for a second season and he will again be joined by Kevin Walsh (coach and strength and conditioning), Mark Quinn and Bernie Gavin.

Enright has played all grades of football with the club and was part of the senior team until two years ago while he continued to play at junior level since then.

Speaking to The Clare Echo this week Flan said that he is not looking past the opening round of the senior championship. “We don’t know what the season will bring or what format competitions will take so we are not looking past round one of the championship”.

Last year Clondegad suffered a shock one point loss to Kilmihil in the opening round and then bowed out of the championship when going under to Cratloe in round two.

On Friday, Clondegad held their 72nd Annual General Meeting, the first to be held virtually. Highlights of the year included winning the U14B football championship, an award for the club’s promotion of the Irish language and to mark the 100 year anniversary of the birth of Michael O’Hehir a commemorative jersey was designed and is available to purchase for €35.

Joe Hehir stepped down as Chairman of the club ending his three year tenure, outgoing secretary Keith McNamara was elected as his successor. McNamara in his report paid tribute to club members who put a focus on the community during COVID-19.

Phillippa O’Shea continues a family legacy by taking on the role of secretary following in the footsteps of her father George and sister Georgina.

Tributes to Gary Brennan were voiced by members following his recent retirement from inter-county football. The hope was expressed by Clondegad supporters that the former All-Star nominee would taste success at club level in the coming years.

Patron: Fr Coyne President: Raymond O’Shea Vice Presidents: TJ Scanlan, Michael Callinan, George Quinn, Vincent O’Shea Chairman: Keith McNamara Vice Chairman: Dermot Gavin Secretary: Phillippa O’Shea Assistant Secretary: Maire Slattery Treasurer: Paul Flynn Asst Treasurer: Flan King Oifigeach Gaeilge: Gearóid Ó Braonáin Field Development Officer: Josie Gavin Registrar: Niall Gavin Child Protection Officer: Benny Duggan Co Board Delegate / PRO: Seamus O’Reilly Social Media Officer: Eoin Reidy Bord na nÓg Delegate: Fintan Meaney County Convention Delegates: Bernie Gavin, Josie Gavin, Seamus O’Reilly

28

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The Clare Echo Planning

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PLANNING

THURSDAY, FEB 11 2021

PLANNING NOTICES Clare County Council Further Information / Revised Plans Planning Reference: P 20 / 704 D e v e l o p m e n t Description: Retention permission for alterations to an existing office building and planning permission to construct a new equipment storage building containing office space at Kilkee Road, Kilrush, Co. Clare along with all associated works at the above address.

Location: Kilkee Road, Kilrush, Co. Clare.

Take notice that Ed Danaher Limited has lodged significant further information in respect of planning application P 20 / 704. This information and planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at

the offices of the Planning Authority of Clare County Council, Planning Department, Áras Chontae an Chláir, 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 2 weeks after the receipt of the newspaper notice and site notice by the planning authority or in the case of a planning application accompanied by an EIS within 5 weeks of receipt of such notices by the planning authority.

Clare County Council Unit 2 Quin Road Business Park, Ennis, Co. Clare Take notice that Fazammy Ltd intends to apply to the

Planning Authority for permission for change of use of part of the existing retail unit to a coffee shop and 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, New Road, Ennis, during its public opening hours (9am to 4pm). A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the planning authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee of €20.00, within the period of 5 weeks, beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application.

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29

THANKSGIVING

THANKSGIVING. ST. JUDE. Most Holy Apostle St. Jude faithful servant & friend of Jesus. The Church honours & invokes you universally as the patron of hopeless cases, of matters almost despaired of. Pray for me I am so helpless & alone. Make use I implore you of that particular privilege given to you, to bring speedy help where help is almost despaired of. Come to my assistance in this great need that I may receive the consolation & help of Heaven in all my necessities, tribulations & sufferings & that I may praise God with you & all the Elect forever. I promise O Blessed St. Jude to be ever mindful of this great favour to always honour you as my special & powerful patron & to gratefully encourage devotion to you. Amen.

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

P,J.

30 PUZZLEPAGE

THURSDAY, FEB 11 2019

THIS WEEKS PUZZLES FEB 11

WORD SEARCH

SUDOKU

7/23/2020

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salami

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HOW TO PLAY

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.

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.

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OFFER ENDS FEB 28 2021

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QUIZ 31

THURSDAY, FEB 11 2021

The Clare Echo Quiz

KILKEE QUIZ 1 Kilkee is located on what bay?

• •

•

Moore Bay The Bay of Bengal Guantánamo Bay

Kilkee is home to the last remain2 ing church of what religion in county Clare.

• • •

Baptist Born again Methodist

Kilkee was once named the 3 premier bathing spot in what was then The United Kingdom of Great

Alfred, Lord Tennyson is another 6 famous visitor to Kilkee. What is Alfred, Lord Tennyson famous for?

• • •

Writing poetry Acting Boxing

famous revolutionary visited 7What Kilkee in 1962 • • •

Leon Trotsky Mahatma Gandhi Che Guevara

Britain and Ireland on the front page of what London based magazine?

Kilkee is home to a statue of what 8 former academy award nominated actor

In 1836 a ship on its way from 4 Liverpool to what US city sank drowning everyone aboard after

That statue was unveiled in Kil9 kee in 2006 by what famous actor who once called the cliff walk in

• • •

The Illustrated London News The London Magazine Time Out

being blown into a bay near Bishops Island, Kilkee?

• • •

New York New Orleans Boston

• • •

Richard Harris Stephen Rea Liam Neeson

Kilkee “The finest public walk in the world” • • •

Matt Damon Russel Crowe George Clooney

Kilkee was once the honeymoon 5 destination of famous English What famous 20th century 10 explorer and filmmaker called writer Charlotte Brontë and her husband and poet Aubrey Thomas Kilkee the best place in Europe for

lQUESTION 8: Kilkee is home to a statue of what former academy award

nominated actor

ANSWERS

.

10 Jacques Cousteau 9. Russel Crowe

diving and one of the top five in the world?

6. Writing poetry

1. Moore Bay

Can you spot the difference? Spot the 7 differences.

The answers will be revealed in next weeks edition.

7. Che Guevara

Spot the Difference

2. Methodiste

Jacques Cousteau David Attenborough Bear Grylls

8. Richard Harris s

• • •

3. The Illustrated London News

Jane Eyre Wuthering Heights Middlemarch

4. New Orleans

• • •

5. Jane Eyre

de Vere. Charlotte Brontë is best known for writing what classic novel?

Quiz by Tadhg Holland

Last weeks Answers . S missing on stop sign . Bag on railing ifferent colour . Downpipe missing from house . Garda text missing on the back of the garda

. Buttons missing on mans jacket . Part of arrow missing on sign . logo missing on van

Jarlath O’Dwyer talking to Anne Cassin in Ennistymon.