The Clare Echo 11/07/19

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INSIDE MOTORING

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editor@clareecho.ie

19-30

ENTERTAINMENT

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11 July 2019

LAHINCH’S MOMENT IN THE SUN Irish Open a worldwide hit l

192 MOTORING

First sell-out since 2012 l

I need a rest after that...

Clare economy on a high l

JOHN O’ DONOVAN

15

LOVE CLARE

AOIBHÍN GARRIHY

12

Praise for local organisers l

FULL IRISH OPEN COVERAGE PAGES 6-7

WELL EARNED REST: Tyrrell Hatton takes a break on the 18th fairway on Sunday Photo by Brian Arthur

2 NEWS

THURSDAY, JUL 11 2019

Index NEWS

2-11

AOIBHIN GARRIHY

12-13

ENTERTAINMENT

14-15

RONAN SCULLY

16

MOTORING

19-30

PROPERTY

31-33

SPORT

34-35

CLASSIFIEDS

36-37

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

NEWSDESK

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

SALES

Email: ger.naughton@clareecho.ie or niall@clareecho.ie

l YOUR TIME TO SHINE: Lyle Conroy, Killaloe talking to Ray Darcy as he broadcasts live from the Lakeside Hotel, Killaloe, on Monday, as part of a series called ‘Uncovering Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands’

Photo by Eamon Ward

Urgent appeal for disability parking spaces STUART HOLLY

A

editor@clareecho.ie

T THIS weeks’ Ennis Municipal District meeting, Mayor of Ennis, Cllr Johnny Flynn, made an urgent appeal to add two extra disability car parking spaces in the Friday Car Park in Ennis Town Centre.

“There is the Friary Church, Health Service Executive Office and a doctor’s Surgery within a short distance of that car park. All of these services should be equally accessible to everyone.

“By adding two more disabled spaces in this car park, will help those with mobility restrictions get closer parking,” Cllr Flynn commented.

As part of this appeal, he has also suggested the possibility of using the vacant corner site to the HSE office as “Mobility Hub.” This would provide a service where people with mobility issues could park their cars and be loaned the use of mobility scooters to access the town, he argued.

Cllr Flynn continued, “Mobility Hubs for shared commuter transport [exist] in other cities in Ireland but a Mobility Hub to serve people with limited mobility would make a significant difference for accessing Ennis Town Centre.”

Along with concerns over equal accessibility, Cllr Flynn has requested an update on the long-term traffic problems at major junctions around the town.

Cllr Flynn has asked for adequate traffic control measures to be implemented in areas such as Corrovorin Junction, Ballymachill Cross, Shanaway Junction and Ballybeg Road numerous times over the years.

“Residents of these areas are concerned for their family and neighbour’s safety, as road users in cars, on bikes and walking. Inspections and recommendations have been made for some of these junctions, and I would like to get an update on scheduled works for these residents,” Cllr Flynn concluded.

4

NEWS

ESB 'very aware' of uncertainty for staff PÁRAIC McMAHON

L

paraic@clareecho.ie

ESS than one month after ESB refuted claims that redundancies would be sought at Moneypoint, over 100 jobs are to go at Ireland’s biggest electricity generator.

By October, more than 100 jobs will be lost at Moneypoint with ESB citing market pressures, carbon prices and increases in renewable energy for the drop in demand for resources.

As reported by The Clare Echo last month, redundancies are to follow at the plant where all contractors have already ceased employment. ESB briefed staff on Monday with dialogue commencing on a lower running regime which is expected to take time to develop and finalise.

Ireland’s biggest electricity generator currently employs 194 people but the figure is set to significantly decrease over the coming weeks and months. It is

the second largest employer in West Clare, behind Trump International Golf Links and Hotel Ireland based in Doonbeg.

An ESB spokesperson said an increasingly competitive energy market, the growing volume of renewables and the impact of carbon prices on Moneypoint output “has meant that Moneypoint is now running far less than previously and given these market fundamentals, a low running regime is likely to persist into the future. The impact of these factors is that Moneypoint’s income has been significantly reduced”.

“Consequently, ESB needs to realign Moneypoint’s operation and resources with the new lower running regime. Local station management briefed staff and their union representatives on these challenges and set out proposals for a reconfigured option for running Moneypoint.

The consultation now in train will focus on the staffing levels required for the lower running

lJOB LOSSES: Moneypoint as seen from the Shannon Estuary

Photo by Pat Kelly

regime, including discussions on how this can be achieved”.

Technology options for Moneypoint post 2025 as it moves away from coal are being examined that aims to deliver large-scale electricity generation and fuel diversity. “The development of replacement generation for Moneypoint, however, is contingent on a project winning an open auction for a capacity contract and on being commercially viable”.

ESB will not comment on the amount of jobs to go as it develops and finalises plans of its lower running regime. “ESB is very aware of the uncertainty this creates for all our staff and ESB is committed to supporting them through this process”.

Meanwhile, Minister Pat Breen has called on the ESB to publish a five year strategy for the future of Moneypoint as soon as consultation with staff is complete.

THURSDAY, JUL 11 2019

Ennis 'safe' for online meetings ENNIS is a safe location for potential couples who come across each other online to meet up, one local representative has said.

Fine Gael’s Mary Howard concluded her term as Chairperson of Clare’s Joint Policing Committee on Monday. She praised An Gardaí Síochána's “open relationship and dialogue” which allowed members of the JPC raise matters of concern to the local community which were swiftly dealt with.

Among Howard’s highlights was the roll-out of the Ask for Angela campaign which was first piloted by Lincolnshire County Council in 2016 and Waterford earlier this year.

Hospitality providers across Clare including bar, restaurant, café and hotel owners all signed up with the aim of making the county a safer destination to socialise. As part of the code-word campaign patrons at participating venues are given a simple way to seek assistance from a member of staff if they feel at risk.

Cllr Howard confirmed she is not using any dating websites but according to personnel on them, Ennis is being recommended as a safe place for first dates. “I’m very proud of the Ask for Angela initiative, it has really taken off in Ennis. It is now being advertised on dating websites that Ennis is a very safe place to go, I’m being told this as I’m not on any of them”.

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6

NEWS

THURSDAY, JUL 11 2019

Twitter talk...

#LAHINCH An Garda Siochana @GardaTraffic Our newest member of the Garda Dog Unit keeping a watchful eye for any Birdies, Eagles, or Albatross at the Dubai Irish Open in Lahinch today l FESTIVAL ATMOSPHERE: Crowds pack Lahinch Main Street on Friday of the Irish Open last week

Photos by Brian Arthur

Marty Morrissey @MartyM_RTE Never seen Lahinch like this before ! Streets full with people, great atmosphere & a fireworks display over the Atlantic that was watched by thousands. The Irish Open has been fantastic for Lahinch & Clare.

Nathan Murphy @nathanmurf They should just let Paul McGinley host the Irish Open at Lahinch for the next few years. Stunning course, proper festival town and a quality champion, what more could you want?

Henrys Bistro & Wine Bar @HenrysEnnis Amazing work by @ClareCoCo @LEOCountyClare and the people of Lahinch, such a huge credit to everyone involved, the whole town looked amazing and the welcoming atmosphere fantastic.

PÁRAIC McMAHON

W paraic@clareecho.ie

Dermot Gilleece @DermotGilleece The confidence of a brilliantly administered golf club was evident in everything about a memorable Irish Open. Take a bow Paddy Keane and your colleagues at Lahinch.

Jon Rahm Rodriquez @JonRahmpga WOW, what an amazing week!! I love this tournament, the country and the people. Thank you for making me feel at home.

John Duggan @JohndDugganSports One thing Padraig Harrington’s magical round of golf at magical Lahinch in magical Clare did. It made us forget Rory McIlroy’s absence. McIlroy brings that X factor in all ways. Padraig is a national treasure though, and he reminded us of why today.

Lahinch Golf Club @LahinchGolfClub Without a doubt the unsung heroes of the week are the 970 Volunteers who contributed greatly to the successful running of the tournament. Without them generously giving up their spare time, an event like the @DDFIrishOpen wouldn’t be possible

Sell-out crowds cap Irish Open

EEKEND crowds attending the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open at Lahinch Golf Club reached maximum capacity emulating the 2012 event at Royal Portrush Golf Club by selling out on Saturday and Sunday.

Sold-out signs were placed in front of the box office on Sunday afternoon prior to the closing concert by Hermitage Green.

When the final ticket was sold, Spaniard Rafa Cabrera Bello was leading the way but his countryman, Jon Rahm had other ideas as he went on to win his second Irish Open in three years.

11,083 fans turned up for Wednesday’s Pro-Am followed 16,228 for Thursday’s opening round. Crowds of 18,841 passed the gates on Friday at the sun-drenched links with 20,097 and 20,477 spectators ensuring Saturday and Sunday were both sell-outs.

Warmth and hospitality provided by the locals helped the make the 2019 Irish Open a success in the eyes of Executive Vice Chairman and CEO of Dubai Duty Free, Colm McLoughlin. “That was another fantastic edition of the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open. I would like to thank the people of Co Clare for their warmth, hospitality and engagement in this tournament which we are delighted to call The Dubai Duty Free Irish Open.

“This has been a wonderful week of sport, festivity and fun, there were sell-out crowds and a fantastic atmosphere both at the golf and in the village. Coming to this part of the world is like a homecoming for our operation as Shannon Duty Free was the very first Duty Free in the world, so County Clare has a very special place in our hearts.

“I would like to thank and congratulate Paul McGinley, Lahinch Golf Club, the European Tour, Clare County Council, the local community and all who worked so hard and partnered with us to make this tournament so special.”

‘If a dog sat still, he would have been painted’

PAUL McGinley made the statement on Tuesday, “if a dog sat down for five minutes he l MAN OF THE would have got painted”. Though County Dog Warden Frankie Coote may not like to hear MOMENT: Irish it, there is truth in what McGinley said such was the amount of work undertaken by Clare Open Host Paul County Council in preparation of the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open, writes Páraic McMahon.

McGinley meets Accurate figures on the amount of money spent by Clare County Council for The Irish with the Irish Open are not yet available. Lahinch hotelier, Michael Vaughan has claimed €10m has Special Olympics been invested in Lahinch over the past year in both the public and private sector. team on the 1st tee Short tourism film features were broadcast on Sky Sports across Europe as well as on at the 1st Round of the Golf Channel in USA to more than half a billion people, commissioned by the local the Irish Open in authority with the objective of enticing viewers to visit the county, while those who were Lahinch

present through the weekend enjoyed live music from acts including Sharon Shannon, Hermitage Green and Chasing Abbey and fireworks, also organised by the local authority.

In advance of the weekend, numerous infrastructural improvements were made in the

Lahinch area, including the promenade walk being extended, the car park being resurfaced and disability and age friendly pedestrian crossings being installed.

Council Chief Executive, Pat Dowling who has been praised by tournament host Paul McGinley in preparing Lahinch is hopeful Clare will benefit from the large TV audience and stated they were proud to be associated with such a prestigious event. “The number of golf visitors to the island of Ireland continues to grow year on year and this event offers the local tourism sector the opportunity to showcase the County to an international telePhoto by Brian Arthur vision audience of more than 500 million people.”

NEWS

THURSDAY, JUL 11 2019

Irish Open buzz to benefit Lahinch for years to come PÁRAIC McMAHON

F

paraic@clareecho.ie

OR a new business, having your location broadcast across the world months after re-opening plus welcoming 100,000 visitors to the area is the stuff of dreams. For Brid and John O’Meara of Lahinch Coast Hotel, it was the reality.

In March, the wife and husband opened the doors following a rebrand and redesign of the entire ground floor. They became involved in the refurbishment of the premises last summer before it was announced The Dubai Duty Free Irish Open was coming to Lahinch. “It’s completely coincidental, genuinely. It was really nicely timed, it’s also really motivating for the staff. We’re a four star hotel and we’re trying to push the boundaries from a service point of view in every aspect of the hotel, we’re trying to create a nicer experience for people staying with

us and up our game to push ourselves as hard as we can,” Brid told The Clare Echo.

The pair first met at Sheen Falls in Kenmare, later going on to manage Moy House and the Red Cliff Lodge. Welcoming guests of a European Tour event is a new experience for the pair, tournament organisers, competing golfers and media personnel were among their residents in their 144 bedrooms.

Last week was not the first time Lahinch Coast Hotel has been at full occupancy since the O’Meara’s took the reigns but they are confident the knockon effect will be very positive for their business. “It’s bringing business to the hotel and getting full occupancy and having an influx in people where you would hopefully have your food and beverage outlets busy, it’s also showcasing Lahinch domestically and internationally. John and I would like to think it’s such a high profile event that it showcases Clare and Lahinch so it should have a knock-on effect either from the people already

Official Cliffs of Moher Shuttle Bus Serving Ennistymon, Lahinch, Liscannor, Doolin, Lisdoonvarna and the coastal walk

Of the new-look Lahinch, she said, “The town is looking great so it’s nice to be beside properties and across from properties that are freshly painted, it’s lovely, it looks fabulous. That’s not just a benefit to us right now or the guests staying for the event but we’ve had tourists booking in for the next couple of weeks and the rest of the summer, it’s so nice that they are arriving into a town that is looking it’s best. There is a lovely atmosphere, driving in your met with the large golfballs, the footpaths are done, there’s flowers, the Council have done great work and money has been spent, some of lNEW BUSINESS: Brid O'Meara what’s spent is here to stay”.

Photo by Martin Connolly Today FM’s Dermot and Dave broadcast live from the hotel for here for the event that may come three days, both Brid and John are back on holidays, a lot of people confident there will be benefits in staying with us at the moment years to come for Lahinch because are in single occupancy rooms so of the DDF Irish Open. “This will they are on work mode so they bring business to Lahinch and might come back with their fam- Clare. With the exposure we’ve ilies and holiday in Lahinch, but already received with the likes of also with the limelight of the TV Nationwide broadcasting from media that it might plant the seed the hotel, people are talking about of the thought for someone to it. We would be quietly confident that it will bring business.” come and stay”.

Tickets available ONLINE ONLY at

www.cliffsofmoher.ie

Pence set for West Clare visit

US Vice President, Mike Pence has declared “his wish” to visit Ireland later this year which is expected to include a trip to Clare.

Both the White House and the Department of Foreign Affairs have been in contact regarding the possibility of what would be Pence’s first official visit to Ireland with early September the anticipated time of his arrival.

No confirmation has been provided from the White House regarding the possibility of the former Indiana Governor travelling to Ireland this year. However, a spokesperson for the Department of Foreign Affairs revealed, “The US Vice President has indicated his wish to visit Ireland this year”.

Doonbeg’s connection to US President Donald Trump has been well documented but his Vice President is the one with ancestry to the Long Village.

On Thursday night last week, the VP tweeted, "On April 11, 1923 an Irish immigrant named Richard Michael Cawley stepped onto Ellis Island and began our family’s story in America. Because he had the courage and faith in America that is displayed in all of you, that’s how Michael Richard Pence became Vice President of the US".

Shannon, Cork and Dublin are the destinations the sixty year old is expected to travel to as part of the reported visit.

OUTWARD 1A Ennistymon to Cliffs

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Ennistymon Church Lahinch Bus Stop Liscannor Main Street Hags Head Kilconnel Cliffs of Moher Visitor Exp

8.15 8.25 8.30 8.35 8.45

9.45 9.55 10.00 10.05 10.15

11.40 11.50 12.00 12.05 12.15

13.30 13.35 13.45 13.50 14.00

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16.50 16.55 17.05 17.10 17.20

18.05 18.10 18.20 18.25 18.35

19.35 19.40 19.50 19.55 20.05

RETURN TIMETABLE 1B Cliffs to Ennistymon

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Cliffs of Moher Visitor Exp Hags Head Kilconnel Liscannor Main Street Lahinch Bus Stop Ennistymon Church

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17.30 17.40 17.45 17.55 18.05

19.00 19.10 19.15 19.25 19.35

21.05 21.15 21.25 21.40

Lisdoonvarna to Cliffs

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Lisdoonvarna Failte Car Park Doolin Hotel Fisher Street House Cliffs of Moher Visitor Exp

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RETURN TIMETABLE 2B Cliffs to Lisdoonvarna 2B

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Cliffs of Moher Visitor Exp Fisher Street House Doolin Hotel Lisdoonvarna Failte Car Park

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17.30 17.40 17.45 17.55

19.00 19.10 19.15 19.25

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OUTWARD2A

8.35 8.45 8.50 9.00

Go green, stay local, enjoy for longer, walk more and leave no trace

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HomeGallery-SummerSale-CC-DPG.qxp_Layout 1 02/07/2019 14:19 Page 1

SUMMER SALE CHOICE OF COLOURS CHOICE OF COLOURS Robyn 4 seater, was €1,495 NOW €999

CARRARA CORNER GROUP WAS €2195 NOW €1495

CHOICE OF COLOURS

1 ONLY

HAVEN 4 SEATER WAS €1295, NOW €895

BILLIE CORNER GROUP, WAS €1995, NOW €1195 2M SOLID OAK TABLE WAS €1395

NOW

€749 SOLID OAK BENCH WAS €499

DINING CHAIR WAS €189

NOW

€119

DINING CHAIR WAS €219 NOW €139

NOW

€299

120CM NEW ENGLAND DINING TABLE WAS €825 NOW €399

1.6M OSLO SOLID OAK DINING TABLE WAS €1,395 NOW €695

1 ONLY NICOLE 3 SEATER SOFA WAS €1495, NOW €749

SWIVEL WAS €795 NOW €595

CHOICE OF COLOURS

Lusso Corner Sofa was €1895 NOW €1195

OVER 100 COLOURS TO CHOOSE FROM

KELVIN CHAIR AND FOOTSTOOL NOW €399

SARAH CHAIR WAS €525 NOW €349

SOFA BED WAS €1095 NOW €695

QUEEN ANN CHAIR WAS €999 NOW €499

10 NEWS

THURSDAY, JUL 11 2019

Electric cars for traffic wardens?

PÁRAIC McMAHON

"T news@clareecho.ie

ECHN OL O GY has not advanced to a stage” where Clare County Council can switch their outdoor crew vehicles away from diesel engines however the local authority is looking into the option of electric cars for traffic wardens.

Independent councillor Ian Lynch asked the local authority at it’s adjourned June meeting to “request the ESB to reconnect all electric charging points that have been removed”, “commence a programme of purchasing electric vehicles to replace the existing outdoor maintenance crew diesel vehicles” and to make “special provision” in annual budgets

going forward for “environmental initiatives”.

In her reply, Director of Service, Carmel Kirby confirmed the Council would engage with ESB “to see if they can reconnect all electric charging points that have been removed”. She also outlined that a review carried out by their machinery yard on electric vehicles found that “technology has not advanced to a stage where we can change from diesel engines to electric for the outdoor maintenance crew vehicles”.

“We are looking into the option of electric vehicles for other plant that will require replacement in the future where the technology has advanced sufficiently such as the diesel vans being used by the Traffic Wardens and Environmental Patrol vans. Presently the

Ennistymon Municipal District Office is currently looking at procuring an electric gator to collect the rubbish from the street litter bins along the narrow streets and promenade in Lahinch”.

Kirby confirmed the Council is “committed to commencing a programme of upgrading its fleet to electric vehicles where possible”.

Investigation the possibility of electric cars for traffic wardens pleased Cllr Lynch. “The biggest pollutant we have is the transport and ESB have removed charging points which is a bit ironic”.

The Kilrush representative said his motion was aimed to get councillors and the public body to start “thinking outside the box”. His motion was seconded by Cllr Clare Colleran Molloy (FF).

NEW CAFÉ AT THE CLIFFS

ONE of Ireland’s leading catering providers, Brambles has been appointed as the operator of the Cliffs View Café at the world-famous Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience.

The Irish family-owned and operated company has secured a 10-year lease for the operation of the 140-seater facility on the first floor of the Clare County Council owned Visitor Centre, which attracted almost 1.6 million visitors in 2018.

Brambles employs more than 300 people in its catering operation, Bistro Restaurant and 27 cafés at locations such as the National Gallery of Ireland, Kilmainham Gaol, Dundrum Town Centre and Céide Fields in County Mayo.

Geraldine Enright, Director of the Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience, commented, “We are delighted to welcome Brambles to the Cliffs of Moher where visitors will now be able to enjoy a fantastic dining experience overlooking the cliffs.”

She continued, “We particularly welcome the operator’s farm to fork ethos through its use of Irish products whenever possible. Local suppliers include Celtic Salads, Burren Smokehouse Salmon and St. Tola’s Goats Cheese with the company seeking to explore other local opportunities as it develops a menu incorporating a strong Clare influence.”

Ms Enright says the Cliffs View Café “fits in perfectly with Brambles’ existing business”. “The company has a strong track record of providing a world-class dining experience at other well known tourist attractions,” she added.

Pictured left to right are Leonard Cleary, Director of Rural Development, Clare County Council; Cillian Reid, Brambles; Bobby Kerr, Chair of Cliffs of Moher Ltd., Kaspars Pastuhovs, Brambles; and Geraldine Enright, Director, Cliffs of Moher Visitor Experience.

Photo by Eamon Ward. Visit www.cliffsofmoher.ie for more.

€10.5m paid out by Council on insurance

€10.5m has been paid out by Clare County Council on insurance costs since 2014, writes Páraic McMahon.

The bill paid by the local authority has been over €1.7m in the last five years hitting €2.5m in 2017. Since the start of the decade €18m has been paid out. The figures were released on foot of a motion from Cllr Pat McMahon who sought their “plans to reduce the Council’s liability and costs for the next five years”.

Last year the bill decreased, breaking a trend of year on year rises in the amount paid out. €1,705,191 (2014), €1,788,720 (2015), €2,188,929 (2016), €2,514,622 (2017), €2,364,107 (2018) are the declared insurance premia for Clare County Council. According to Director of Physical Development, Carmel Kirby, the local authority has a number of strategies in place orientated towards risk riduction in an attempt to reduce the costs.

A comprehensive ‘risk register’ is to be compiled and subsequently updated every six months “to raise awareness of the risks associated with implementation of programmes and objectives and the development of ancillary mitigation measures”. Similarly a ‘Safety Management System’ is to be drawn up with the view of reducing risks for staff and the general public across the services the Council is engaged in. €1.6m was included in the Schedule of Municipal District Works for 2018 to “facilitate the remediation of an extensive schedule of defective footpaths throughout the county. The criteria used to determine the content of the programme focused on locations where footpath conditions posed a risk to users or where there was a history of occurrence of mishaps or accidents or the submission of public liability claims”. This funding was financed by a dividend from IPB. “By far the most significant driver of fluctuation in insurance costs is the public liability claims component. IPB have introduced a fraud team to its staff in recent years to rigorously pursue fraudulent claims to help reduce the financial burden of such claims on Local Authorities,” Kirby stated.

Fianna Fáil’s McMahon felt the system was wrong where people who were found to have submitted false claims were not punished. “I have no problem when there is a genuine trip or slip, pothole damage to vehicles are the biggest source of claims for local authority.

“I know people who have injured themselves and not claimed because they would ‘have no luck for it’, the vast majority of people believe that. The Government have made a major mistake in disbanding the Garda unit to investigate false claims, we have seen people who should not avail of claims try to in recent weeks, it sends out a totally wrong message. At the moment, we’re in a situation where a person makes a claim and when it turns out to be false nothing happens,” the Newmarket-on-Fergus representative added.

ON YOUR BIKE!

Zimmer Biomet Employees Take to the Road to Raise Funds for The Saoirse Foundation – BUMBLEance Children’s National Ambulance Service IMMER Biomet, a global of BUMBLEance Ireland said, “BUMleader in musculoskeletal BLEance is thrilled to partner once healthcare, has organised its again with Zimmer Biomet, a company second charity cycle between aligned with our charity values and misits two plants at Shannon and sion to deliver positive impacts for sick Galway, a distance of 83km. Over 40 children. This continued support will alemployee volunteers took to the road low us to initiate a new Mid-West based recently to raise funds for Irish charity, BUMBLEance in the coming months.

The Saoirse Foundation, BUMBLEance We would like to express our sincere Children’s National Ambulance service. thanks to the team at Zimmer Biomet Last year, the Zimmer Biomet team and to those who are supporting this raised over €10,000 for the charity with event.” the funds assigned to support services Congratulating the group, Claude in Clare, Limerick and Galway, allow- Costelloe, General Manager of Zimmer ing sick children in the region to travel Biomet’s Ireland manufacturing facilisafely and comfortably to and from their ties commented, “We are inspired by the homes to hospitals, hospices, treatment dedication of The Saoirse Foundation centres and respite centres nationwide. and BUMBLEance and are delighted According to local families, BUM- to support this worthy charity. Its work BLEance makes a huge difference to aligns with our mission to improve the their children’s quality of life and relieves quality of life for people around the the pressure on parents and other family world and give back to communities in members, who are already experiencing need. I would like to pay warm tribute to stress and worry. Michael Gibbons and our employees, who have given freely of Nadine Gibbons from the Dublin Road, their time to train and participate in our Limerick, grandparents to Nicola said, plant-to-plant event. They are true am“What can we say about BUMBLEance bassadors for our company’s values and only that the team is absolutely fantas- I am proud of their civic spirit.” tic! BUMBLEance has taken away all the A leading employer in Shannon and stress and the strain of travelling up and Oranmore, Galway, Zimmer Biomet’s down to Crumlin for appointments with footprint in Ireland features two stateNicola. The staff members are wonder- of-the-art manufacturing facilities plus ful and make you smile even on a bad a professional education centre that day.” attracts healthcare professionals from Tony Heffernan, Founder and CEO around the world.

Z

ON YOUR BIKE: Pictured in Shannon at the starting line of the recent Zimmer Biomet charity cycle are members of the Gibbons family from the Dublin Road in Limerick, who use the BUMBLEance service, Deirdre Lennon and her son, Ben Herbert, representing the Saoirse Foundation, and staff volunteers from Zimmer Biomet, who serve on the company’s CSR Committee, responsible for organising the charity cycle.

SHANNON AIRPORT IS CELEBRATING THE 80TH ANNIVERSARY Shannon Group’s international airport, Shannon Airport is celebrating the 80th anniversary of the landing of the first passenger aircraft.

S

HANNON Airport, a Shannon Group company, will on Thursday celebrate 80 years as the centre piece and driver of the regional economy as it marks the landing of its first passenger aircraft way back on July 11th, 1939.

Some 80 years ago to the day a Belgian airliner - tri-motor Sabena Davoia Marchetti S-73 – landed on the newly opened and then named Rineanna airfield and gave lift-off to what would soon after become known as Shannon Airport and an economic transformation of a region.

Fast forward the 80 years and Shannon Airport is today Ireland’s second-largest long-haul airport, the only one outside the capital offering direct flights to all key Irish markets – the UK, European mainland and US. It plays a critical role in facilitating and driving economic growth, with over 40% of US FDI companies in Ireland within the airport’s catchment.

Shannon Group’s economic impact sees it generate €3.6 billion in GVA for the Irish economy each year and contributes €1.15 billion annually in tax revenue to the Exchequer. Over 46,000 jobs are supported by the activities of Shannon Group.

All of this grew from what is by today’s standards a very modest arrival of eight passengers and crew on board the Belgian airliner but by 1930’s standards a moment of wonder in rural west of Ireland.

The passengers were greeted with cheers from the assembled staff of the fledgling airport before they were whisked to Foynes to board the Pan American’s ‘Yankee Clipper’ Boeing 314 flight bound for New York.

The news spread quickly of the presence of the Belgian airliner at Rineanna and by the time the crew returned later that night for their return trip, up to 500 people had gathered to watch its take-off on the return journey to Croydon in the south of England and then onto Brussels.

By 1942, a serviceable airport had been achieved and was named Shannon Airport. By 1945 the existing runways at Shannon were extended to allow transatlantic flights.

The world leading pioneering spirit of Shannon was further emboldened in

1947 with the establishment of the world’s first Duty Free shop. It began as a small kiosk staffed by one woman and grew into a multi-billion dollar global retail industry.

Today Shannon International Airport has the longest runway in Ireland at 3,200 metres and is the only Irish airport that can accommodate the world’s largest jet, the Antonov AN 225. Other major milestones included it becoming, in 2009, the first airport in the world, outside of the Americas, to provide full US Preclearance facilities, while in 2017, Shannon become the first airport in the world to open a sensory room for passengers with autism or special needs.

Shannon Group continues to invest in the airport, having completed a €45 million investment programme to enhance its customer offering. New and upgraded dining and shopping options are now available, as well as enhancements to the airport’s VIP lounges, transit and boarding gate areas.

Mary Considine, Acting CEO, Shannon Group said that celebrating the 80th anniversary cannot be passed without acknowledging all who worked across the decades to make Shannon such a pivotal asset for the region.

“We are hugely proud of history here at Shannon, and our pioneering reputation is recognised and respected across the world of aviation. Shannon Airport was the first European gateway for transatlantic flights and over the past eight decades we have welcomed every serving US President, royalty, famous actors and musicians along with tens of millions of international travellers.

“We are very proud of the place we have earned, through our commitment to innovation, in global aviation. Today we are remembering not just the 80 years but everyone who helped build this special airport and worked with pride and dedication across those decades to make it such a storied and central part of this region.

“Above all, we are an airport that is imbedded in our community, we would like to thank our customers for their loyalty and support over the years and ask them for their continued support in the years ahead, “said Ms. Considine.

13 COLUMNIST

THURSDAY, JULY 11 2019

Aoibhín Garrihy

LOVE

CLARE

An Amazing Irish Open THE NOTEBOOK

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HERE’S no doubt about it...The Banner is alive and kicking at the moment! It’s the place to be and with all eyes on the county over the past few days she certainly brought her A Game!

The sun shone, the people came in their droves and Shane Lowry described it as “the best Irish Open he’s ever encountered”. I’m referring of course to the epic few days in Lahinch which saw thousands of people flock to the stunning west Clare coast and enjoy the epic carnival that was the Dubai Duty Free Irish Open. The dust won’t have time to settle in West Clare though as the set dancers take to the floor for Willie Clancy week over the next few

days and with the weather promised to continue fine for the remaining days it’ll be another memorable one ahead.

Not forgetting the opposite side of the county, earlier in the week I joined Ray Darcy along with some champions of the County, namely Marty Morrissey to celebrate Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands and the beauty of the stunning Killaloe. Ray broadcast live for RTE Radio One from the roof of The Lakeside Hotel and to say the scenes were breathtaking was putting it mildly. There’s something so tranquil and serene about Lough Derg and it’s only by being there that you can really appreciate it’s beauty.

We are still buzzing after an epic BEO Bites at the Championship Village in Lahinch at the weekend and it was wonderful to see some familiar faces like Clare natives The Heathers and Lauren Guilfoyle stop

COVET IN

CLARE

SCRUB A DUB DUB The new Shnuggle baby bath with Foam Back rest available at Cribs has been carefully crafted to make a safe and secure place to bath your baby, making it more comfortable and enjoyable for baby and less stressful for you. Win/Win!

I SCREAM, YOU SCREAM...

We all scream for Ice Cream! For a unique, irresistible taste of Clare try Bo&Bainne at the Armada Hotel. The Caramel and Dooliner Brown Bread flavor is to die for and you simply will NOT regret it! Delish!

by. The only complaint...we needed a bigger tent!! Thank you to everyone who came and joined us. Stay tuned for more exciting BEO Bites news very soon...hint: We will be celebrating 100 years of female empowerment and participation at a very exciting sporting event next month.

Finally, I’ve been joining a movement of like minded happy swimmers aka Snámhaí Snásta who take to the water at Spanish Point beach every morning at 9am for a refreshing dip and an even more refreshing chin wag! Get on down if this sounds right up your alley, you won’t regret it!

IRISH OPEN: (top) epic few days in Lahinch which saw thousands of people flock to the stunning west Clare coast (below) Breathtaking scenes with Ray D’Arcy on RTE Radio1 (left) an epic BEO Bites at the championship village in Lahinch

PERFECT PICNIC Francis Brennan knows how to pack a picnic and this gorgeous traditional basket complete with cooling bag is both a dash of luxury and also very practical. Available exclusively at Dunnes Stores.

HAPPENINGS COUNTY CLARE AGRICULTURAL SHOW SOCIETY LIMITED

There is so much to experience at the County Clare Agricultural Show with lots of family fun activities and stalls. The show takes place at the showgrounds Ennis on July 14th.

FRESH AS A DAISY Nothing sings summer like a freshwhite tailored blazer and this long Ally from Willow comes complete with this season’s must have double lapel and four button detail. At just €55 it’s a steal too!

DIVE IN Sunday 14th July sees some fantastic outdoor activity wear up for grabs at Aldo and this Children’s Full length wetsuit is available for just €19.99. Make the most of summer and equip yourself with some bargain buys!

WILLIE CLANCY

Willie Clancy concludes this Sunday 14th July with a performance from the Jonny Reidy Céilí Band at the Armada Hotel.

COLUMNIST 13

THURSDAY, JULY 11 2019

Top 5 B each Safety Tips thanks to the RNLI

There is nothing like Clare on a Sunny Day in particular our beautiful Clare coastline but as the crowds flock to the beach it’s important to be mindful and vigilant and the RNLI have compiled some very helpful tips so we are all tuned in to potential hazards:

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CHOOSE A LIFEGUARDED BEACH:

When you’re heading to a beach, respect the water and visit a lifeguarded beach. On a lifeguarded beach there are trained professionals to help keep you safe – they’ll be on hand if something goes wrong, in or out of the water. It’s easy to search for lifeguarded beaches to make sure you and your family have a safe and fun trip to the coast. You will find all info on Lifeguarded Beaches near you on the Irish Water Safety website.

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LOOK OUT FOR BEACH FLAGS AND SIGNS:

When you arrive at the beach the first thing you might see is a sign giving you all the information about the beach you’re visiting. This includes important safety info on the hazards specific to the area. The signs generally use two different types of warning symbols. You will find all info on beach flags and signs on the RNLI website and it’s a good idea to brief yourself before you visit.

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PREPARE YOURSELF PRE-DIP:

Before you get in the water it’s important to consider your personal fitness as the sea can be a very demanding environment. Swimming is one of the best year-round activities to help prepare your body so it is recommended you get in the pool and start practising straight away! Just be aware that sea swimming can be more challenging than the pool so before you start a watersport it’s worth jumping in between the red and yellow beach flags and familiarising yourself with the conditions.

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KNOW HOW TO CALL FOR HELP:

GET SUN SMART:

Sunburn can ruin your holiday and increase the risk of skin cancer in later life. According to research we experience over half our lifetime’s exposure to the sun before we reach the age of 21. So in order to keep safe this Summer follow the Ss of sun safety: - Sunscreen – slop on SPF 30+ broad-spectrum waterproof sunscreen every 2 hours - Sun hat – slap on a broad-brimmed hat that shades your face, neck and ears - Sunglasses – wear wrap-around sunglasses with UV protection to shield your eyes - Shoulders – slip on a T-shirt or UV protective suit for children and remember to keep your shoulders covered - Shade – seek shade, particularly during the hottest time of the day between 11am and 3pm when UV penetration is at its strongest - Slurp – drink lots of water so that you stay hydrated during your time in the sun.

If you get into difficulty a whistle is a simple and effective method of calling for help when close to shore. When venturing further offshore carry a suitable means of calling for help, such as a waterproof and fully charged VHF radio, phone in a waterproof pouch or flares. Don’t forget the international distress signal of hand waving and shouting for help.

Entertainment

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE IFI FAMILY FESTIVAL

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LÓR is delighted to welcome the Irish Film Institute to present highlights of its 2019 IFI Family Festival, on Saturday 7th September. As always, this fantastic festival will include a mix of new and varied feature films from across the globe, along with a selection of great shorts. glór’s highlight programme includes the Festival’s perennially popular shorts programmes – Short Tales 1 at 12pm features a mostly dialogue-free selection of thrilling animated and live-action shorts suitable for children ages 4+, while Short Tales 2 at 2.30pm will allow audiences aged 8+ to peek at life in the Colombian rainforest, and share a girl’s passion for space exploration.

Also screening on Saturday at 4.30pm is the brilliant and empowering Indian drama Chuskit, which focuses on a young girl determined to attend school despite her disability and the local traditions.

The Irish Film Institute is Ireland’s national cultural institution for film. It provides audiences throughout Ireland with access to the finest independent, Irish and international cinema. It preserves and promotes Ireland’s moving image heritage through the IFI Irish Film Archive; and provides opportunities for audiences of all ages and backgrounds to learn and critically engage with film.

Individual tickets for all films cost €4 or €12 for a family of four.

Tickets are available from glór Box Office on 065 6843103 and from www.glor.ie

OH, THE STARLINGS

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IERAN Goss and Annie Kinsella return to Kilkee with songs from their debut duo album ‘Oh, The Starlings’...... songs, stories and harmonies that transport the listener to another world, this is music from the heart, for the heart... A show to make you laugh and cry... A show to move you with its honest beauty... A show not to be missed.

Recorded in New York with eight time Grammy winning engineer and mixer Kevin Killen at the helm (David Bowie, Peter Gabriel, U2, Elvis Costello), ‘Oh,The Starlings’ has been described by songwriter Rodney Crowell as: “So good, it’s heartbreaking... the record itself feels like an old friend.”

Having already won the kinds of re-

views that signal their elevation onto the international stage, Kieran Goss and Annie Kinsella’s ‘Oh, The Starlings’ is a work of art with poetry and melody at its heart. While at times reminiscent of the great music of the 70s – Joan Baez, Joni Mitchell or Leonard Cohen – Goss and Kinsella have undeniably succeeded in creating something magnificently, uniquely theirs: an album that is both classic and modern, simple and multi-layered, quiet and dynamic Kieran Goss and Anne Kinsella An Culturlann Sweeney July 27th @ 8pm Tickets €25 Booking on 065 9060769 or online at www.culturlannsweeney.ie

Treesy does it at Scariff Festival GETTING out and about, taking in the freshest of fresh air and finding a new perspective on local natural heritage, are opportunities to be savoured in the walks and talks during the upcoming Scariff Harbour Festival.

Raheen Woods, once part of the ‘Great Forest of Aughty’, has been home to the 1,000-year old oak tree long associated with the last high king of Ireland. Still bearing fruit, thousands of its acorns have generated many more oak trees across the length and breadth of Ireland. Although the pièce de résistance of the woods, the 100 ft high Brian Boru tree with a girth of 26ft below its branches, is only part of the wonderful story that is Raheen.

Native wood specialist, Andrew St. Ledger will tell that story. He will lead a tour through Raheen Wood Estate on August bank-holiday Saturday. Involved in creating the Community Woodland Project, made possible through the kind donation of 4 acres of the estate by its current owner William McLysaght, it doubles as a local nature reserve and an ecological enclave and resource for environmental sustainability within the community.

On the Festival walking tour, the Dublin-born forest activist, will look mainly at native species, like the oak, holly, ash, wild cherry and others while high-lighting the importance of native trees for biodiversity.

Another inclusion in the Harbour Festival Programme is a separate walk discovering Local Native Plants. Botanist and former model, Phoebe O’Brien will take her tour along the banks of the Grainey River in search of aquatic plants and hedgerow plants on the roadside bank. Participants will learn how to use a hand lens, some tips on using floral keys and most of all what plants tell us about the environment and its management.

Scariff Harbour Festival 2019 in association with Waterways Ireland runs from Thursday 1st August – Sunday 4th August. The only requirement for all festival activities (except the Christie Hennessy Tribute Concert) is one €5 wristband for the entire week-end.

ENTERTAINMENT

THURSDAY, JULY 11 2019

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CLARECASTLE PLAYWRIGHT THROWS KITCHEN SINK AT NEW PRODUCTION CIAN O’BROIN news@clareecho.ie

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LARECASTLE native and playwright John O’ Donovan’s work effuses both sagacity and wit.

Despite leaving for London over ten years ago, Irish sentiments are deeply embroiled in John’s characters.

Speaking with the Clare Echo, Johns talks about his authorial pilgrimage from humble beginnings to the illustrious but not always glamourous life of an Irish playwright living in London.

John’s writing began to shape itself from a tender age, “Writing was always something I did but I didn’t start writing plays until I was in UCD. I used to write short stories as well as music and poetry before that. The music scene was always great in Ennis.” A rich and vibrant academic setting provided the baseline for John to showcase his talent, “There was a chance at university to adapt a short story I had written. The drama society there showcased two plays each day and if it wasn’t for that I wouldn’t have had much of an opportunity.” On his transition to writing for theatre John recalls attending his first play ‘Philadelphia Here I Come’ for his leaving cert. “glór itself wasn’t open very long when I

was living in Ennis and it hadn’t occurred to me how to get involved in local drama clubs at the time. It wasn’t as obvious when I was a teenager, either you played sports or you played music whereas now it seems there’s a greater variety of things to do.”

John was recently nominated for a Stuart Parker Writers Trust award, a prestigious accolade he acknowledges as something, “I’m really proud of and it’s great that the play got some recognition. For something that started out small and worked by its own momentum most of the way, rather than something that came from a big commission. I’m proud of it being something that’s up there being recognised nationally.” John’s nomination ‘If We Got Some More Cocaine I Could Show You How I Love You’ was something evinced in the spur of the moment, a slender opening of fate capitalised on “when someone dropped out of a short play night in London that I often write for, they asked me last minute would I write something. The play itself wasn’t something I planned on writing. I had a week to put the whole thing together.

It all happened very fast but it was good to get out of my head. Luckily those characters came to me quite vividly and the situation the characters were in set its own rules early on which made it easier to write.”

On the life of a budding playwright, looking to get their work out there to a wider audience John admits, “I don’t think any artist

wants to start out being a producer. Sitting around waiting for that big commission and it won’t happen. I think there’s a lot of great artists out there and theatres want to represent as many people as possible. I don’t think it’s a closed shop but the funding for the arts in Ireland has really taken a toll. For all the promises Leo Varadkar has made it still hasn’t happened.” Relating to this personally, John tells of how the cutbacks inadvertently led him to where he is now, “the cuts that happened ten or eleven years ago that led to people like me emigrating haven’t been restored and I think it will remain tricky until governments realise the arts need central funding in order to trickle down onto the ordinary citizens. In the meantime, we will all be independent producers and jacks of all trades.”

Getting into the nuances of his craft, John draws contrasts between writing a novel and writing for theatre, “I try to understand point by point what my story is going to be before I start writing. I see it more as shaping a sculpture than I do going out for a walk.”

On the technical aspects of writing John admonished that it took him a long time to free up his schedule in order to craft his plays, working his way up in other careers in order to generate some time to write. “There was nobody sponsoring me on writers retreats, I had to find that time whether it was in the evenings after or before work whereas now

I get to write a lot more during the week, which is really valuable as you can give yourself time and space to think those bigger thoughts. The people that can write the best nowadays are those that can tune out of the world we live in and tune into the thing that they’re interested in at the time. That’s something I’m still working on.”

John’s upcoming play Sink is delivered as a one-person show. An actress plays two characters, with both of them heading west set at the backdrop to a large archaeological site. The play will premiere in Dublin in the middle of September and will be produced

by One Duck. John is bound by contract not to disclose all the details but nonetheless he is looking forward to finishing the final draft. A GoFundMe page has been set up in order to sponsor the production costs and can be found online at GoFundMe.com/ sink-by-JohnODonovan.

CONCERTS IN GLÓR Clare Youth Trad Orchestra Thur 18th @ 8pm Shaskeen Fri 19th @ 8pm Shaskeen in Concert

Martin Hayes & Tulla Céilí Band Sat 20th @ 8pm Kilfenora Céilí Band Sun 21st @ 8pm

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THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK

THURSDAY, JULY 11 2019

Ronan Scully

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK Author spreading the word of positivity

LOVE LIFE AND LIVE A LIFE OF LOVE

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HIS week I am reflecting and celebrating on my Love of Life and watching my fellow Clara man and genuine legend, Shane Lowry play in The Irish Golf Open in Lahinch Co. Clare. What a brilliant golfer and sport man he is, but what an even more awesome person and genuine caring person he is and who does so much especially privately for so many good causes and charities.

The thought that I am just over half a century old and maybe I now have fewer days in front of me than behind me is quite mellowing and humbling. But now after some prayerful reflection on my life this last week I have stormed my brain these last few days to think of my top 30 life lessons that I have learned so far that have helped me get to this day and time.

30 Top Love Life Lessons learned so far...

1. Life can be so unfair and heartbreaking at times. But life can be good and joyful too. I have a loving and caring family and also some great and genuine friends that have and are helping me on my life’s journey.

2./3. Time and experience heals pain. Even if you are going through an overwhelmingly sad and sorrowful event in your life right now. One day it will be part of your past and not nearly as significant as it seems. We spend way too much of our lives looking for outside support and approval. Go within, meditate, pray and truly love yourself because in truly loving yourself you can then truly love others. Friends come and go, the real ones stay around or are part of your life when you really need them. Nurture and keep the good ones but show kindness always to all.

4. Kindness matters a lot. Being kind is more important than being right at times. Wherever there is a human being, there’s an opportunity for kindness. Being kind, caring and loving really matters in life.

5. My parents were right!! Everything does seem worse at night so never let the sun set on your anger.

6. Forgiving yourself is far harder than forgiving someone else. Forgiveness is not so much about the other person. It’s about you and for you so that you can gain the peace and freedom you deserve.

7. Our background and circumstances may have influenced who we are, but we are responsible for who we become. Always remember that no matter what you do in life that there is no greater thing that you can do than to love someone or care for someone or be there for someone. Be that someone!

8. Don’t compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about. Don’t take life too seriously! Nobody gets out alive anyway. Smile. Hug. Pray.

Read. Listen to Music, Walk, Run, Be you. Take chances. Have fun.

9. Be grateful for everything. Light candles in Thanksgiving. Our entire life is a precious gift. The pleasure, joy, sadness and the pain. It’s all part of our life journey.

10. Stop worrying and start loving and living! Make everyone of your days here on earth count for the good of yourself and for others. Choose life and love, for something can be lost and gained in living life everyday.

11. Addiction is no respecter of people no matter who or what you are. It will seek to destroy anyone who gets caught in its web. Pray the Serenity Prayer as I do everyday not because I want to its because I need and have too!! Try not to let your brain be hacked by addiction!!!

12./13. No one gets through this life without some trials, tribulations or setbacks. Everyone is fighting a battle or trial of some kind. Be kind always. Don’t be jealous of others, always try to be thankful for the blessings you have in your life and cherish them for you have no idea what it’s like to walk in another’s shoes.

14. Don’t worry about what people think of you. Love you and then you will be able to love oth-

ers. If you want something ask for it because if you don’t the answer will always be no.

15. You can’t change people. You can only change yourself, but only if you truly want too. You either have to accept people for who they are or not at all. There is very little grey areas here.

16. Giving is better than receiving. If you continually give, you will continually have. Giving is the secret to receiving. Share your wisdom, your love, your talents and abilities. Share freely and be amazed at how much beauty in life flows back to you.

17. Learn the art of empathy and practice it. Never underestimate the power of a smile, a hug, a kind word, a prayer, a candle lighting or a listening ear.

18. Love and care for your children with all your heart and soul and always try to be a good example of love and care for them.

19. Live in the now. Don’t let yesterday use up today. The present moment is where it’s at. It’s the only one promised to any of us.

Learn from your past & enjoy the beautiful memories, but don’t cling or let them worry you.

20. You can’t buy happiness. Everything that is wonderful about life doesn’t cost a penny. A long walk, a sunrise and sunset, a flower, nature,a prayer, a lighted candle for someone in need, a hug, a smile, a kiss, spending time with a good friend are all free.

21. No matter how lonely you might feel, there is always someone who can relate to you. Perhaps you can’t talk to them right now, but they are out there. Its Ok not to be Ok but its also Ok to talk!!

22. Nature, flowers and gardening are medicine for the heart, mind and soul. A walk in nature cures a lot.

23. Your job won’t take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and family will. Stay close.

Our bodies are our vehicle to our dreams. Treat them with love and fuel them with the best health to feel vibrant and energized. But, never obsess over image. Looks are subjective and will fade in

time, anyway. Feeling good, healthy, and comfortable in our own skin is what matters most. Be you always!

24. Trust your gut instinct. Let your heart and soul shine! Be you and be authentic. There is nobody else on this earth just like you.

Step into your truth wholeheartedly and live and breathe your purpose. Dare to dream and go after those dreams!

25. Sometimes all you can do is Breathe!! Never give up or give in and always give it especially in life, your best shot. Don’t put pressure on yourself. It’s okay to say No!!

Dwell, Pray, Breathe and Listen to what your life is saying to you.

Enjoy nature and the fresh air as much as you can. Walk or run or do both. Be active physically and mentally if you can.

26. This wise prayer which I love and need to say daily is one that always keeps me going in the right direction, “God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference.” The world is our mirror. What we love in others is a reflection of what we love about ourselves. What upsets us about others is a strong indication of what we need to look at more closely within ourselves.

27. Tell your loved ones you love them every time you get the chance and love them with everything you have. Also, remember if something is making you miserable, you do have the power to change it - in work or love or whatever it may be. Have the guts to change.

28. No one is in charge of your happiness except you. Not your parents, not your spouse, not your children, not your friends. You and only you are in charge of your happiness.

29./30. Find your passion. Discovering something you love to do has an amazing effect on your entire life. In being true to yourself, you can’t possibly make everybody else happy. Still, it’s better to risk being disliked for living your truth than to be loved for

what you are pretending to be.

I have a lot left to learn. Life still has many lessons left to teach me, and I’m looking forward to them all. To the people who tell me that I’m too nice, I may not worry about what people think of me as much as I’ve grown older, but you will never catch me being unkind.

Another is pray and pray often for yourself and for one another and especially for anyone in need.

To Celebrate Loving Life....

I’m planning on making this year the best year ever actually I try to do that every year. I am filled with anticipation of what this next phase of my life will bring and I welcome it all. One of my big plans this year is to over a few weeks from now on the 17th of August to the 24th of August, “Walk 350 KM’s from Waterford/ Ardmore Bay to Galway Bay - An Irish Camino - “Bay to Bay charity walk” - walking to give people and children life!” in thanksgiving and prayerfulness for reaching my 52nd year and for also reaching my 27th year of working in the developing world with the poorest of the poor and to raise much needed funds for the following 3 charities that are close to my heart, Self Help Africa, The Rape Crisis Centre and Rosabel’s Rooms in-partnership with the Irish Hospice Foundation.

If anyone would like to walk with me for any amount of distance along the route or all of the route over 7/8 days and raise funds for these charities or to make a donation to the charities and for further information please contact me at ronan.scully@selfhelpafrica.org.

Thought for the week As your thought for the week, look at your life’s experiences over the years and see what lessons you have learned and see what you are doing about them and as the saying goes, go after your dreams, for happy are those that dream dreams but even more happier are those who try to achieve them. Go achieve them. Life is short! Love Life and Love your Life and Live a Life of Love!!!!

THURSDAY, JUL 11 2019

Community

COMMUNITY 17 CONTACT NEWSDESK

065 671 9021 news@clareecho.ie

EAST CLARE

GORT

€43K RAISED BY ENNIS DARKNESS INTO LIGHT Saturday 10th August 2019, the 38th Annual Gort Agricultural Show will take place at the Community Centre & Community School Grounds, Ennis Road, Gort. Horse Show in Stanford’s Field, Loughrea Road, Gort. With over 230 competitive classes and programme of events guaranteed to give young and old a great day out Gort is the place to be on August 10. Gort Show are delighted that Marcus Motors have agreed to be main sponsor for 2019 show.

Gort Show appreciate all those who donate, promote, exhibit, help out before and after the show. Copies of the Schedule and Entry forms are available at Gort Credit Union, Family Resurce Centre and The Tourist Office The Square Gort. Show Secretary can be contacted at gortshow@gmail.com or 087 2622332.

Pictured above at the Gort Show launch is Fidelma Larkin, Mary Forde, Padraic Giblin, Maura Leonard, Henry Marcus, Main Sponsor, Deirdre O Donnell, Fiona Curley, Seamus Killeen, Mary Moloney, and Ollie Connolly.

WEST / NORTH CLARE COLLEEN BAN COMMEMORATION The Killimer parish will commemorate the Bi-Centenary , of the death of Ellen Hanley ,better known as the Colleen Ban, on Friday , July 12th at 8pm in Burrane graveyard, Killimer. Ellen Hanley had a short and tragic life. Born in Parkaree, just outside Croom, Limerick in 1803. She married a naval officer, Captain John Scanlan in 1819.

Not long after their marriage, John Scanlan contrived a plan,with the help of Stephen Sullivan to murder his young wife. This was carried out by Stephen Sullivan with great savagery, ending up with her body being thrown overboard. Her body was discovered in Poulnadaree, Killimer, by two locals, Patrick O Connell and John O Driscoll.

They found the body of a lady,with a rope still around her neck and some fingers missing. She was named locally as the Colleen Ban,as she was of fair complexion and also had fair hair. No one had an idea who she was until later on, and this is the name she will always be remembered by. A collection was made locally to defray burial expenses. Peter O Connell,the Lexicographer, offered his recently purchased burial plot in Burrane as her final resting spot. Their now lies a bronze statue,that was erected in her memory.

70TH NORTH CLARE SHOW Preparations are stepping up for this year’s North Clare Agricultural Show, in Corofin. This years Show will be the 70th Show in North Clare Agricultural Shows illustrious history and will take place on Saturday 27th of July. The committee which is led by Chairperson Thomas Holmes, Secretary Marian Darcy and long serving Treasurer, Gerry Hanrahan are expecting it to be one of the most successful in the Shows long history. Both the pony jumping and horse jumping will get things underway at 9.30am.

Exhibits must be placed in the hall before 9am with judging taking place in the morning. The hall will open for viewing around 1pm.

As part of the 70th Anniversary celebrations a whole host of activities are planned. Visitors to this years Show will be able to step back in time with the Vintage Tea Room located in St Patricks Hall.

The Vintage Tea Room will be serving delicious homemade cakes and snacks throughout.

St Patricks Hall will also be home to a fascinating exhibition of photographs and memorabilia from the Shows 70 years.

The Show is also very excited to announce the Garda Mounted Support Unit will be present on the day of the Show.

More information, including the full Prize List, is available via the North Clare Corofin Agricultural Show Facebook page.

FÉILE BRIAN BORÚ tours, Traditional Family Fun Day with Archery, The beauty of the picturesque twin towns of Traditional Carnival Games & Mini-Zoo; FuinKillaloe and Ballina, await you during the 27th neamh Drum, Brass Band, Emergency Services Annual “Féile Brian Ború Festival”. As it is the Open Day, RSA Shuttle and Roll Over Simulator, birthplace of Brian Ború, we like to commemoA range of workshops for all ages; Film Club; rate Ireland’s Greatest High King in style! Féile Kiddies Beat on the Street; Pond Dipping; Strut Brian Ború 2019 promises to be a great four your Mutt Dog Show; Children’s Art Competition, days of unrivaled fun and entertainment.

Photographic exhibitions & displays, Shannon From Wednesday 17th to Sunday 21st July, Swim, Farmers Market and Craft Fair and much, experience a variety of fun activities including: A much more! We hope you will come along and stunning Fireworks display over the River Shanhelp us commemorate Brian Ború in style - Fun non, Fly-Boarding displays on the River Shannon, and entertainment for all the family guaranteed!

Water Zorbing, Kayaking, Sailing, Canoe Races, For further info contact: info@feilebrianboru.com; Shannon Swim, historical lectures and guided www.feilebrianboru.com; or find us on Facebook.

PAT FOWLER MCINERNEY CUP O'Callaghan's Mills Senior team will play Smith O'Brien’s, Killaloe in the final of the Pa Fowler McInerney Cup to be played in Kilkishen next Sunday at 7pm. The final did not take place last year and so will be contested on Sunday. The minor club are running an U 17 hurling tournament next weekend in honour of the late Liam Chunky O'Brien. The final is to be played at 5.30 pm in Kilkishen before the senior final. Teams in the U17 Tournament include O'Callaghan's Mills, Bodyke, Feakle Kilennina, Tulla and Broadford. The semi-finals will take place on Thursday in Kilkishen and O'Callaghan's Mills.

ENNIS

GAEILGE THIS WEEKEND The Irish language group Caint agus Comhrá in Ennis facilitates members of the public come together and practice their Irish in informal social settings. At these gatherings, language lovers can meet other Irish speakers and strike

up new friendships. This evening (Thurs) Caint agus Comhrá is to be found in Temple Gate Hotel (Preachers) at 8pm.

The morning Caint agus Comhrá meet-ups, held regularly in cafes around the town from 11am, are at the following venues: Friday, Sweetngreen; Saturday, Glór; Monday, Zest. Speakers at all levels and nationalities welcome.

18

OPINION / BRIEFS

THURSDAY, JUL 11 2019

Eoin Neylon

An inside look at Clare’s political spectrum

Anti 5G campaigners making false claims

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NE thing that sets some politicians apart is being ahead of the curve. The public representative that’s seen to be proactive on an issue is the one that gets the limelight, the media coverage and, they hope, the votes that usually come with such attention. As such, politicians meet community groups, lobby groups and charitable causes regularly in order to try stay abreast of the all the issues in their constituency and further afield.

They can’t be experts in all fields, however.

At local level, this is increasingly difficult as, unlike TDs and Senators, there is no research office at the disposal of a local councillor to examine issues and try get independent views on a given topic prior to a meeting. Instead, the local politician must rely on their own reading, and whatever material a given lobby group comes to their door with, in order to try form their own opinion on what can be complicated issues.

This is all well and good when it comes to funding for sports clubs, the arts, matters of transportation and other things almost every member of the public can relate to. But what about technical matters for which, frankly, most public representatives are not qualified to have an informed opinion about? We are all aware of the misinformation put out by anti-vaccines advocates, all based on pseudo-science and outright lies. However, to those without a scientific grounding, this pseudo-science mumbo jumbo that the anti-vaxx lobby propagate would seem to have merit, given the way it’s framed. It’s from these uncertainties, especially in the unregulated minefield of social media, that dangerous and false ideas are allowed fester.

Nevertheless, Clare County Council seem to have fallen victim to something similar at one of their first meetings since the recent election. I write of their decision to seek to halt the roll out of 5G mobile infrastructure in Clare.

Before I get into it, I will give our councillors credit for one thing. Their decision was born form a place of genuine concern for the people of Clare.

Nevertheless, the ‘information’ their decision was based on appears inaccurate.

First off, 5G is the latest generation of mobile communication technology. The latest smart phones operating are 4G and our current telecoms infrastructure is geared towards that technology.

The main difference between 4G and 5G is that 5G is reporting to be up to 100 times faster as well as more efficient than its predecessor.

Many in the tech industry see it as a solution to slow broadband speeds without the need for laying expensive fibre in the ground. It is also seen as the basis behind the advent of driverless cars, automated drone deliveries and other such technology. Groups opposed to 5G though, claim that it poses significant health risks, citing unproven allegations of cancer risks. For clarity, I should point out that the frequency range for the new proposed technology will be the existing 600MHz to 6GHz as well as the 30GHz to 300GHz range of the electromagnetic spectrum. By comparison, visible light takes in the range of frequencies in the order of 430 trillion Hz to 750 trillion Hz, frequencies in the order of 1,000 times higher than those in question with 5G. Claiming that the 5G range is “high-frequency” is simply wrong but, when not given in context, would look potentially alarming. Cancer causing electromagnetic radiation typically comes in the form of x-rays and gamma rays which are many order of magnitude higher than visible light again.

Anti 5G campaigners also falsely claim that in order for the technology to work, huge numbers of trees will need to be felled. This again is highly inaccurate. I’ve been presented online with graphs and extracts from studies from conspiracy theorists who are trying to claim that Governments are felling trees on the behest of mobile phone companies. When investigated, the studies appear mis-quoted and information taken out of context.

So where is all this “fake news” surrounding 5G coming from? Ironically, from the United States Government apparently. The reason being, the Chinese technology firm Huawei have raced ahead of their US rivals and are ready to roll out the technology. In an attempt to catch up, it appears that certain US officials are more than happy to talk up public health as well as security concerns around 5G technology. It’s reported that these tactics are contributing to the growing trade war between the two states and as such, it’s going to be a messy one to sort out as long as Trump continues to do business in his adversarial manner.

So, spare a thought for our local representatives.

In their part-time role, they cannot possibly be experts on medial matters as well as be expected to have university level grasp of physics. Their vote against 5G was based out of concern, but with better facts, I hope that they reconsider and vote to allow progress and connectivity that the Banner county so desperately needs.

St Francis Credit Union joins up with Metamo

ST FRANCIS Credit Union is one of 16 of Ireland’s largest credit unions who have announced a €10 million collaboration with Irish based, international financial technology company Fexco in the formation of a new joint venture to be named Metamo.

Metamo is a 50-50 joint venture between the 16 investing credit unions incorporated under the name MetaCU and Fexco, one of Ireland’s largest financial services companies. MetaCU credit unions represent over 480,000 members from across the country – including 38,000 from St Francis Credit Union - and combined assets of over €3billion (c.19% of the sector). The primary objective of Metamo is to support credit union viability through the provision of a more complete and modernised suite of financial products.

Louis Fay, CEO of St Francis Credit Union said: “This is an exciting day for St Francis Credit Union which I am convinced will allow us to provide an improved service and set of products to our members. St Francis Credit Union is an integral part of several communities around Clare and becoming part of the Metamo joint venture will mean we can modernise to keep pace with other financial service providers.”

More information is available at www.metamo.ie.

AIB pop up at County Show

AIB will be installing a pop-up bank at the Clare County Show as the bank brings its mortgage lounge and team of specialist advisors to the show this Sunday 14th July. On the day, attendees will be able to pop into AIB’s on site bank for a chat about agricultural financing, mortgages, finance and leasing and much more.

AIB will also be offering discounts for home and car insurance on the day and one lucky attendee will also be in with a chance of winning a luxury food hamper.

Speaking about the Clare Show, Michael Earley, Branch Manager at AIB Ennis said “AIB have supported Clare Show for many years and we are delighted to sponsor the event again this year. This is such an important date in the calendar for the local community and economy of Clare and we’re excited to be bringing our pop-up bank to the show this year for the first time ever. Attendees will be able to pop into our mobile mortgage lounge and ask our advisors any questions they might have about buying a home.

“We will also have our local agricultural advisors and finance and leasing specialists on hand to speak to anybody looking for advice. We’re encouraging everyone to pop down to our tent as we will also have a competition where one lucky person will win a hamper.”

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MOTORING

192

MOTORING EXPERT NEIL BRISCOE GIVES HIS VIEWS

BMW’S I3 ELECTRIC CAR IS TRULY INTER-CITY BMW’S QUIRKY BATTERY CAR GETS LONGER RANGE BMW I3S

I

T’S finally happened! I’ve finally been able to do it! Do what? Why drive an electric car on the long motorway schlep between my house and Dublin, and not need to stop along the way for a quick charge.

I’ll grant you that this doesn’t sound all that spectacular, but you know what? It’s one of those baby steps along the way from here to the future in which we’re all driving electric cars, all the time. And it’s a bigger deal than it sounds, too. You see, motorway mileage is a killer for electric cars — which is why fast-charging points tend to be located on motorways, as that’s where they’re needed most — so an EV that can tackle long journeys in a single bound is a big step forward.

Technically, there are already cars on the market that should be able to cover the 190km I need to regularly drive between my personal A and Dublin B. Any Tesla you care to mention should be able to do it, as will the likes of Jaguar’s I-Pace, Audi’s e-Tron quattro, and even Hyundai’s humble Kona Electric.

The thing is, though, that I hadn’t been able to do it before now. I’ve tried in a few cars — Hyundai’s Ioniq, Nissan’s Leaf — but they didn’t have quite the range nor efficiency to do the job. One car had to be the first, though, and so it fell to this one — the BMW i3S. The good thing is that, unlike the Tesla, the Jag, or the Audi, the BMW i3 is a car

that can at least see an affordable price tag, somewhere in the distance. In fact, once you factor in the VRT rebate and the SEAI grant, you can get a basic i3 for around €35,000 which while not chump change is at least within the bounds of possibility for many drivers.

This, my test car, is actually an i3S, which means it has more power than the standard i3. Not a lot more power, admittedly. 184hp against the standard model’s 170hp. It is a bit quicker, though, sprinting from 0-100km/h in 6.9secs . The standard car takes an aged and decrepit… er, 7.4secs, which is hardly tardy. Worth the upgrade? Probably not, to be honest, not least because the motor’s extra power means that the claimed range of 255km on one charge for the i3 falls to 245km for the i3S. Again, not much of an advantage, but there are days when it may be crucial.

The S model does come with rather toofirm suspension, too. Normally, we like and appreciate a bit of sportiness, but the i3S has a habit of clattering over bumps like someone’s put bricks in the springs, which is a bit of a shame.

Still, there’s no doubting that the i3 is fun to drive, either in standard or S form, and that makes it pretty much the only electric car in this price bracket of which you can say that. The steering is nice — light but incisive — and the usual insta-surge of electric torque from step-off. That makes the i3S feel exceptionally fleet on its feet around town, but the one big benefit to the S model is the additional, sustained, shove you feel at higher speeds. Here is an electric car that can go toe-to-toe, blow-forblow, with big diesels on the motorway, which is its own special kind of fun.

Of course, hitherto, motorways have

been happy hunting grounds for electric cars for only the briefest, and slowest, of journeys. Unlike city streets or rural roads, where traffic and corners offer you regular opportunities to replenish your batteries through regenerative braking, motorways are all-drain, all the time. Which means that your radius of operations shrinks rapidly, as does your range to recharge.

The i3S copes, though. On that fateful (yes, alright, fateful for me) long haul run, what kept me from giving into my range anxiety and pulling in for a quick top-up of electrons was the i3’s sat-nav, which overlays a visual sweep of range onto the map. Even cruising at the legal limit, and with the cabin heating on for much of the time, the i3S reassured me I’d make it. It helped that this was early morning, and so heavy traffic approaching the city allowed me to temporarily switch the drive mode select to the most frugal Eco Pro Plus setting, which limits the top speed to 90km/h and shuts down aircon and heating.

Still, even given that it feels kind of impressive that, 188km after I set out from home, I arrived at my destination with an indicated 39km of range left in the battery. A long way short of what a good diesel or petrol car could manage, it’s true, but pretty good by the current electric state of the art.

FACTS & FIGURES

Model tested: BMW i3S 120Ah Pricing: €44,613 as tested; i3 starts at €34,995 Engine: 135kW electric motor Transmission: singlespeed reduction gear, rear-wheel drive Body style: Five-door compact hatchback CO2 emissions: 0g/km (Band A0 €120 per annum) Claimed range: 245km Top speed: 160km/h 0-100km/h: 6.9 seconds Power: 184hp Torque: 270Nm Boot space: 260-1,100 litres

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Total Hire Purchase Price €25,450. APR 0%. €0 cost of credit. Minimum deposit 10%. Volkswagen Bank GmbH Branch Ireland is authorised by the federal financial Supervisory authority (BaFIN) in Germany and is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland for conduct of business rules. Lending criteria, fees and terms and conditions apply. Subject to lending criteria. Hire Purchase agreement. *Offer available on all orders taken & registered before 31st July 2019. This offer does not apply to fleet sales. Prices include delivery charges but exclude metallic paint. Contact your local dealer for further information. WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure) combined fuel consumption for OCTAVIA in l/100km range from 4.3 to 8.5. WLTP combined CO2 emissions in g/km range from 113 to 196.

MOTORING

192

MOTORING EXPERT NEIL BRISCOE GIVES HIS VIEWS

SKODA IRELAND SETS SALES RECORD

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KODA Ireland has today announced record sales results for the first half of 2019. Skoda registered 6,449 vehicles for the period; an increase of 2.4 per cent. This is a notable achievement considering the Irish car market contracted 7.3 per cent over the same period. Skoda’s increased sales have pushed them into the top-5 bestselling car brands for the first time with record market share of 7.9 per cent.

In a challenging financial half year for the motor industry, Skoda Ireland also improved new vehicle turnover by 8.2 per cent and profitability by 12.5 per cent compared to 2018.

More customers are availing of financial prod-

CZECH BRAND IS NOW THE FIFTH-BIGGEST SELLER IN THE COUNTRY

ucts such as PCPs (personal contract plans) through Skoda Finance. A total of €65.8 million was loaned to customers to the end of May to fund both new and used Skoda vehicles representing an increase of 24.8 per cent on the same period in 2018.

The brand’s best-selling model was the Octavia, with 2,209 units sold. The Skoda Kodiaq enjoyed further success with 1,229 units delivered to customers in the same period. Remarkably Skoda has experienced increased demand for their Diesel vehicles with 15 per cent more Diesel powered cars delivered year on year!

Commenting today, John Donegan, Brand Director at Skoda Ireland said:

“Our record performance is down to the hard work of our dealer network and the investments they have made over the last 5 years.

With the recent launch of the new Scala hatchback and the arrival of the new Kamiq SUV in autumn we expect to cement our 5th bestselling car brand position for 2019. Looking more closely at the data, Skoda has delivered 15 per cent more Diesel vehicles than the same period last year. Our customers trust our quality Diesel engines and value their efficiency, reliability and low emissions. This is evident in our increased sales figures. Assuming there is no radical vehicle taxation change we expect the demand for Diesel to hold steady for the

foreseeable future. Donegan added: “Electric vehicles are unfairly dominating the conversation of late. With pricing out of reach of the average driver and limited range unsuitable for many commuters we believe our modern Diesel and Petrol vehicles should be acknowledged more for their efficiency. Timing is ev-

erything! Skoda will launch its first electric vehicle later in 2020 in line with improvements in the charging network. Throughout the next decade we will be offering our customers a choice of Petrol, Diesel, Hybrid and Fully Electric vehicles.”

MOTORING

192

MOTORING EXPERT NEIL BRISCOE GIVES HIS VIEWS

NISSAN OPENS ONLINE FOR CAR SALES

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NISSAN’S IRISH CUSTOMERS CAN NOW COMPLETE THE BUYING PROCESS ONLINE, IF THEY LIKE

ISSAN has become the first car distributor in Ireland to make it possible for motorists to buy their entire passenger car range online.

Nissan relaunched the www.nissan.ie website this week and it now features a “Buy Now” button which enables motorists to buy any new Nissan car whenever and from wherever they choose, including from the comfort of their home.

The new feature is great news for Irish car buyers who have already made up their mind on which new car to buy and who want to complete the sales process online.

The move comes after

Nissan successfully trialled the online sales model with the 2018 launch of the 40kWh zero emissions Nissan LEAF. Over 200 customers put down online deposits for the car without visiting a showroom to see or test drive the car, while 2,500 online users registered their interest in the car.

“We were selling the car before it hit the showroom floor. It proved how the market has changed and we have built upon that.

We are expecting a similar experience ahead of the launch of the new 62kWh Nissan LEAF in June and we are certain that customers will fully embrace the option to buy from the full range of Nissan cars online,” said James McCarthy,

CEO of Nissan Ireland. to complete a finance application before en- plete the process of securing finance approval “Buying a new Nissan gaging with their local Nissan dealer to com- for their new Nissan,” said Mr. McCarthy. is now only a click away.

Car buyers are already researching which car to buy online and can now take the next step and buy any The Nissan LEAF is Ireland’s best-selling electric vehicle and the undisputed leader in its new Nissan passenger car segment, with the 192 model now available at Dulick Motors in Ennis. from any location at www.

Figures from the first quarter of 2019 shows 532 new car buyers making it their car of nissan.ie,” he explained. choice.

Online payment is proThe result underlines a massive surge in demand for the Nissan LEAF at a time when cessed through Stripe and the number of electric car registrations in Ireland this year have already surpassed the total number of EVs registered for the whole of 2018. car buyers are only required The popularity of the Nissan LEAF is also underscored by the fact that is now the to pay a fully refundable best-selling electric vehicle across sixteen counties including Clare. deposit of €200 once they “The demand for the Nissan LEAF throughout the first three have selected the specificamonths of the year has been astonishing. Motorists are making tion and the model of the the switch to zero emissions EV driving and the Nissan LEAF new Nissan passenger car is clearly their car of choice,” said James McCarthy, CEO of that they want to buy.

Nissan Ireland.

“That is enough to secure “Nissan dealers sold 789 Nissan LEAFs in 2018. They are on track their new car online and to to eclipse that record over the coming months because the Nissan LEAF is an all-round winner for families who want to reduce their carbon footprint and to save the environment automatically place an orby making the switch to electric driving,” he added. der with their nearest NisThe soon to be launched new 62kWh Nissan LEAF is certain to attract even more attensan dealer. Online buyers tion from consumers with the new model delivering up to 385 kilometres of zero emissions can also use the new webdriving on a single charge. site to book a test drive and

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MOTORING

192

MOTORING EXPERT NEIL BRISCOE GIVES HIS VIEWS

NISSAN LAUNCHES NEW NV250 VAN NEW COMPACT VAN CAN HAUL UP TO 800KG

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ISSAN has today unveiled the latest addition to its Light Commercial Vehicle line-up: the new NV250 compact van. Featuring enhanced safety and reliability thanks to on-board Nissan Intelligent Mobility technologies and an industry-leading five year / 160,000km warranty, the NV250 ensures today’s business owners are ready for anything.

Customers will benefit from multiple engine and interior configurations and two body lengths and a comprehensive range of conversions. for optimum practicality and functionality.

The NV250 will be on sale across Europe from September 2019.

Additional key features include: an 800kg payload and two body lengths, enhancing cargo-carrying capabilities for seamless deliveries; Euro6D-Temp compliant for reduced CO2 emissions and optimised fuel efficiency translating into lower overall running costs; Numerous on-board Nissan Intelligent Mobility technologies, including Hill Start Assist and Extended Grip; Nissan’s industry-lead-

ing five-year or 160,000 km warranty comes as standard.

Paolo D’Ettore, Light Commercial Vechicles Director for Nissan Europe, said “The new Nissan NV250 is the perfect compact van for small businesses with big aspirations.

By enabling customers to choose the version that is just right for them, the NV250 encourages more agile business deliveries and greater leisure freedom.”

The panel version is offered in two body lengths (L1 / L2) and comes with several seating configurations, These features mean the NV250 can handle everything from quick urban deliveries to transporting larger materials for construction sites.

The NV250 incorporates a proven and efficient 1.5-litre diesel engine, with three different powertrain options available.

The NV250 will also be offered alongside the e-NV200, Nissan’s pioneering and class-leading zero emissions compact van which has sold more than 20,000 units across Europe since launch. It is now upgraded with a 40 kWh battery, offering a range of up to 200 km (WLTP Combined Cycle).

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MOTORING

192

JAMES BARRY MOTORS AWARDED SEAT IRELAND’S DEALER OF THE YEAR

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IMERICK-based dealership James Barry Motors has today been announced as SEAT Ireland’s Dealer of the Year 2018.

One of the newest additions to SEAT Ireland’s 24-strong dealer network, James Barry Motors, which has been in business for just four years now, has exceeded all expectations delivering phenomenal results for 2018.

Performance areas for which the dealership was commended for include an exceptional sales performance, particularly in new car sales with a high penetration of those sales financed via SEAT Financial Services.

Customer satisfaction from both a sales and aftersales perspective was also singled out for praise, along with a high percentage of customers purchasing their car also bought service plans from James Barry Motors and genuine parts performance was another area of excellence which demonstrates the level of customer loyalty associated with James Barry Motors.

James Barry Motors has been retailing the SEAT brand for two and a half years and is comprised of a core team of nine, includ-

ing; Dealer Principal James Barry, General Manager Diane Barry, SEAT Brand Manager Larry Keogh, Aftersales Manager James Casey, Senior Technicians Billy Lane and Richard Murray, Sales Executive Ger Sheehan, Service Advisor Bistra Peric and Technicians Rachel Cahill and Scott O’Gorman.

Commenting on the recognition, James Barry said: “We are honoured to have won this prestigious award from SEAT Ireland. I am incredibly proud of my dedicated team who work relentlessly to provide customers with the very best advice and knowledge empowering them to choose a car that suits their every need, at the very best possible value. I have no doubt this achievement will help fuel our motivation for the future.

We are delighted to have won this national award and are grateful to SEAT Ireland for the support they have afforded us.”

Niall Phillips, Brand Director at SEAT Ireland commented: “I would like to congratulate James and all of his team on demonstrating core values to the SEAT brand and customer focus across all areas of the business. We have awarded James Barry Motors with this title to show our appreciation for

all the hard work they have put in over the past twelve months. At SEAT Ireland, we are privileged to work with fantastic dealers right across the country and this is crucial at a time when the SEAT brand is ,growing in terms of volume, market share, and con-

sumers desire equipped with the youngest and most dynamic product range in the Irish market. 2019 is a fantastic year for the brand with our entire dealer network playing a pivotal role in delivering that success.”

31 PROPERTY

THURSDAY, JULY 11 2019

9 MOYARD, SHANBALLA, LAHINCH ROAD, ENNIS, CO CLARE V95 X2X5 OPEN VIEWING: SATURDAY, JULY 13TH: 10.00AM TO 10.30AM SHARP.

B

€269,000

49 DUN NA MANACH QUIN, CO CLARE V95 N880

68 CREGAUN TOBARTEASCAIN, ENNIS, CO. CLARE V95 CA2W

OPEN VIEWING: SATURDAY, JULY 13TH: 10.00AM TO 10.30AM SHARP.

3

T

€209,000

EAUTIFULLY finished 4 bed semi-detached home situated in the popular Moyard development on the Lahinch road in Ennis.

Moyard is 1.5km approx. from the town centre and approximately 500m from the N85 Link road that connects with the M18 Limerick-Galway motorway. This stunning home is finished to a very high standard and is situated in a cul de sac, overlooking a large green area.

Viewing of this stunning property is highly recommended.

HIS immaculately presented 3 bedroom semi detached residence comes to the market in excellent condition throughout.

Ideally located within walking distance of Quin village and all local amenities. Situated in an established residential development, this would make a fabulous family home.

The property has been extensively refurbished in recent times and is ready to walk into!

Viewings are highly recommended.

Contact: Tiernan O’Malley Sherry FitzGerald McMahon Phone: 065 6867866

Contact: Danielle Kavanagh Sherry FitzGerald McMahon Phone: 065 6867866

3

T

€199,000

WALTONS QUARRY WEST END, KILKEE, CO. CLARE V15 DK58

5

T

€850,000

HIS property is superbly located within minutes of St Flannans College and within walking distance of Ennis Town Centre.

Accommodation on the ground floor comprises an entrance hall, living room, kitchen/dining area and a separate utility room. On the first floor there is a landing, three spacious double bedrooms (one with ensuite) and a bathroom.

Externally there is a cobble-locked driveway to the front with a lawn. To the rear of the house there is a paved patio area with gravelled shrubbery beds.

Viewing of this fine home is highly recommended.

HIS remarkable residence is situated on an unrivalled, elevated c. 0.75 acre site in Kilkee’s famous West End on the Wild Atlantic Way (http://www.wildatlanticway. com/home), 15 minutes drive from Doonbeg Golf Course and 1 hour from Shannon Airport. The breath-taking sea views on offer over Moore Bay and the broader Atlantic Ocean are second to none and must be viewed to be truly appreciated.

Architecturally designed and constructed in 2001, this unique home is the epitome of luxury living. The property comprises 375 sq. m. (3,929 sq. ft.), laid out over 3 floors. Internally, the house has been completed to a very high standard and every opportunity to take advantage of the panoramic views on offer has certainly been taken.

Viewings are highly recommended.

Contact: Tiernan O’Malley Sherry FitzGerald McMahon Phone: 065 6867866

Contact: Danielle Kavanagh Sherry FitzGerald McMahon Phone: 065 6867866

Beautiful homes all over the County

Property

DNG O’SULLIVAN HURLEY CALL FOR EXTENSION OF HELP TO BUY SCHEME

T

HE DNG Half-Year Residential Market Review highlights the continuing moderation in the rate of house price growth across the country during the first half of the year, and in Dublin the slowdown has been even more evident during the first six months of 2019, with virtually no change in values according to the report.

The report also reveals the importance of the Government’s Help To Buy (HTB) Incentive initiative since its inception in 2016, and calls for the ending of uncertainty surrounding the scheme’s continuation as well as an extension of the deadline for a further two years. Analysis by the firm shows that since the initiative was launched, 44% of all new homes sales to private individuals in the market have been supported by the government initiative.

The Initiative provides for a refund of income tax and DIRT paid over the previous four tax years up to a maximum refund of 5% of the purchase value of €400,000. For a property to qualify under the scheme it must be purchased from a qualifying contractor and must be used as the first-time

buyer’s home. The maximum property value associated with the scheme is €500,000, having being reduced from €600,000 following the Initiative’s implementation.

• The scheme has been a key driver in new housing output since inception in 2016.

Since July 2016, 44% of all new homes sales to private individuals (i.e. not just to first time buyers) have used Help To Buy. This excludes ‘block sales’ of multiple units to one buyer also.

• 1/3 of HTB claims were made against properties valued €226,000 - €300,000, a further 1/3 €310,000 - €375,000. So scheme is targeting and being availed of by the people who need it most.

• Almost 60% of HTB claims were on properties with a Loan -to-Value of 85% or greater • First Time Buyers increasingly choosing new builds. In 2016 first time buyers bought an average of 170 new homes per month each month. In 2017 (1st full year of

HTB) this rocketed to 268 (+58%). In 2018 it went up to 339 per month (+26%)

The report highlights how prices at the entry level to the market continue to show the strongest rates of growth, driven primarily by first time buyer demand. In the capital, homes valued at up to €300,000 increased by 2.3% on average over the last twelve months as those looking for their first home competed for the most affordable stock in the marketplace. Meanwhile the DNG HPG( House Price Gauge) recorded a decline of -0.2% in the value of an average resale property in south Dublin during the second quarter.

Commenting on the latest results, Cormac O’Sullivan of DNG O’Sullivan Hurley said, “we have seen a dramatic increase in the number of proposed developments in the Clare area in the past twelve months.

We are currently marketing two hugely popular schemes and consulting on several more proposed developments due for release in 2020.” He continued, “Our current buyer dynamic is comprised of in excess of

90% First Time Buyers and all of which are availing of the Help To Buy Scheme”.

Speaking about the report, Chief Executive of DNG Keith Lowe stated “the current trend of price stabilisation is positive news for buyers; furthermore, the Help to Buy Incentive scheme is vital for first time buyers in the market, a high proportion of who are in rented accommodation. He further added, “We all want to see increased levels of new housing output in the shortest timeframe possible however, delivering new units is a lengthy and complex process and certainty around future demand needs to be maintained. In this regard it is important that first time buyers continue to be supported over the next number of years through the Help To Buy Initiative.”

Contact DNG O’Sullivan Hurley today to discuss their fully Help To Buy approved schemes that are selling fast!

PROPERTY 33

THURSDAY, JULY 11 2019

FEIGHROE, CONNOLLY, ENNIS, CO. CLARE

A

BILLOWS ANNEX, SPANISH POINT, CLARE

substantial detached 5 bedroom family home located within walking distance of Connolly village.

Presented in excellent decorative order throughout on an elevated landscaped 0.54 acre site.

Contact: DNG O’Sullivan Hurley, 74 O’Connell Street, Ennis Tel: (065)6840200

PSL 002295

11 SILVERGROVE, BALLYBEG, ENNIS

P

Contact: DNG O’Sullivan Hurley, 74 O’Connell Street, Ennis Tel: (065)6840200

PSL 002295

O

PSL 002295

N

Contact: DNG O’Sullivan Hurley, 74 O’Connell Street, Ennis Tel: (065)6840200

U

€230,000

PSL 002295

M

AHONBURGH is situated in a quiet leafy suburb in Inch Village. Built in 1984, the accommodation overall extends to a very comfortable 135.72 sqm (1461 sq ft), the spacious interior is well appointed throughout.

Contact: Location Location, Unit 2, Summerhill, Market Place, Ennis Tel: 065 68 23718 PSL 003928

L

€189,000

OCATION LOCATION are delighted to present this contemporary property to the market, extending to 106 sqm (1141 sq ft) this home offers stylish and modern living quarters and presents an ideal opportunity for anyone seeking a home or investment property.

Contact: Location Location, Unit 2, Summerhill, Market Place, Ennis Tel: 065 68 23718 PSL 003928

PSL 002295

4

OPEN VIEWING SATURDAY 1.15PM TO 1.45PM

14 BRODAGH VIEW, CRUSHEEN, CO. CLARE

PSL 002295

NIQUE property, New England style finish, set on beautifully elevated site, overlooking the bay and the Atlantic Ocean. This house has to be viewed to fully appreciated its style and standard of finish.

Contact: DNG O’Sullivan Hurley, 74 O’Connell Street, Ennis Tel: (065)6840200

3

OPEN VIEWING SATURDAY 10AM TO 10.30AM

ESTLED on a large corner site in the much sought after cul de sac estate of Glenoir, positioned just off St. Senan’s Road within walking distance of Ennis Town and its many surrounding amenities.

BUNKER LODGE, DOONMORE, KILRUSH

N the banks of the Fergus with cut stone boundary and mature landscaped gardens, Ardilaun is truly one of the finest homes to be offered for sale.

Contact: DNG O’Sullivan Hurley, 74 O’Connell Street, Ennis Tel: (065)6840200

4 MAHONBURGH, INCH ENNIS COUNTY CLARE

HIS house was built in 2000 and stands on the site of part of an old house which was used as a summer retreat for wealthy landowners in the 19th century.

ARDILAUN GUESTHOUSE, GORT ROAD, ENNIS, CLARE

OSITIONED on a stunning corner site and boundaried on three sides by mature forestry this stunning property is located to the rear of the Silvergrove exclusive development of detached homes.

Contact: DNG O’Sullivan Hurley, 74 O’Connell Street, Ennis Tel: (065)6840200

T

9 GLENOIR, ST. SENAN`S ROAD, ENNIS, CLARE

VIEWING BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

DRUMCONORA HOUSE, BAREFIELD

L

€355,000

OCATION LOCATION are pleased to offer to the market this stunning detached family home set on incredible mature landscaped gardens (approx 0.5 Ac) in this prime location, this property will not disappoint.

Contact: Location Location, Unit 2, Summerhill, Market Place, Ennis Tel: 065 68 23718 PSL 003928

EchoSport

Clare one year from Super 8s Martin Daly GAA ANALYSIS

W

HEN I sit down to pen a column for The Clare Echo, a defeat is usually handled with a critical look at where the side has gone wrong. However on this occasion I can offer nothing but praise for this Clare team, whose 2019 Championship journey came to a heartbreaking end on Sunday at the hands of Meath.

As the old saying goes, Clare died with their boots on in Portlaoise.

Leaving aside that they certainly weren’t going up there for a moral victory, you have to take your hat off to Colm Collins and his team. From 1 to 20, the workrate was unbelievable and the tactics were well executed. This all resulted in Clare putting 1-18 on the scoreboard, a number you’d fully expect would be enough to buy a victory.

But it didn’t on this occasion. I know it’s a hard defeat to take but as a Clare supporter, you can give nothing but credit for the performance. The Super 8s was just a step too far, and while I take no pleasure in saying it, maybe that’s for the best because another three weeks of physical endurance against to pclass opposition could have potentially flattened this side.

By way of getting the constructive criticisms out of the way, obviously Meath pintpointed the centre of Clare’s defence and sliced through it with ease an awful lot. As our half forward line drifted back, as they often do, Meath built momentum from their half-back line and that’s where most of the damage came from, with those impressive overlapping moves. Most of their scores and particularly their two goals came right through the middle, which was disappointing to see. It’s an area I pointed out prior to the game, and one which Clare had difficulty in addressing. However, this criticism is overshadowed by just how impressed I’ve been with Clare in recent weeks.

Colm Collins got the best out of all of them on Sunday, with men bursting off the shoulder to break down the Meath defence. When Dermot Coughlan kicked our last point when a goal was needed, you couldn’t but feel sorry for them.

I’d like to highlight one passage of play that summed up perfectly Clare’s level of effort and determination.

Trailing Clare by a point as half time beckoned, Meath’s Donal Keogan rounded Stephen Ryan to fire home into a seemingly empty net but for a last ditch, goal-line clearance by Kevin Hartnett. Unfortunately, Bryan Menton was on hand to net the rebound,

but it was Hartnett’s attempt to block this rebound which really caught my eye. Kevin has just come back from a broken cheekbone two weeks ahead of schedule so he could face Meath on Sunday. He shouldn’t even have been on the field and yet he had the bravery to dive, face first, in a bid to stop that goal. If only Kevin had a bigger face, he would have stopped the effort but as things stood, it was advantage Meath

to see why; a willing student, huge workrate, good under a high ball and comfortable in possession, Stephen Ryan has impressed. I would be surprised if he hasn’t done enough to earn the Number 1 shirt on merit heading into 2020.

As sights turn to club football again, we can reflect on Clare’s 2019 as yet another step in the right direction. Their fitness levels look absolutely savage

l TIGHT BATTLE: Meath’s Conor McGill and David Tubridy

going into halftime. However Clare kept their foot on the pedal and two points from the excellent Gordon Kelly and Jamie Malone brought the sides level again.

And that was the story of the game - time and time again, Clare looked like they were in a position where they could have thrown in the towel but they refused to do that and the fight stayed within them to the final whistle. It was performance-of-the-year stuff for many of them; Sean Collins, Cian O’Dea, Dean Ryan, all excellent. Dermot Coughlan’s return was akin to finding a new player after coming back from a horrific injury. Goalkeeper Stephen Ryan has turned out to be our success story of the year. It’s funny how things go; Stephen was well down the pecking order earlier this year but following a series of injuries, he was the last man standing and in some respects, our default goalie for the championship.

Clare’s goalkeeping coach Declan O’Keefe has nothing but praise for the Kilrush Shamrocks man and it’s easy

Photo by Martin Connolly

right now. Clawing onto their place in Division 2 was the luck they deserved earlier in the year, as they fought tooth and nail for everything else they got as the season progressed. They also learned to tactically adapt following a benign performance against Waterford in the first round of Munster, which set them on their way to four impressive performances and an intriguing journey from a spectator’s point of view. To get to the last 12 in Ireland, and just one point away from the Super 8s, we have to be so proud of the players, management and backroom team.

We have mentioned numerous times, they fight above their weight and this year they’ve done it again. The Super 8s would have been an unbelievable achievable.

However huge steps forward have been made, and if Colm Collins remains at the helm and keeps this group together while continuing to develop the younger players in Clare, the target of Super 8 football for next year can be an absolutely realistic one.

Collins taking time to decide on future

By PÁRAIC McMAHON CLARE senior football manager Colm Collins is to take time out before deciding if he will seek to remain in charge for a seventh year.

On Sunday, Collins watched as Clare came agonisingly close to qualifying for the Super 8s, coming up short against Andy McEntee’s Meath who became the first team this decade to lose the provincial final and still qualify for the quarter-finals.

In the 27 games he has been manager of the senior side for, Clare have won 14, lost 12 and drawn one.

He confirmed on Sunday he will set time aside over the coming weeks to see if he will continue in the position for another campaign. “What we’re going to do now is keep our powder dry. I don’t think that making decisions on the back of a Championship defeat is the right thing to do. I’ll just see, we’ll give it a bit of time.”

Since succeeding Mick O’Dwyer, the Cratloe clubman has overseen Clare’s promotion from Division 4 and later Division 3 of the Allianz National Football League. They have maintained their status in Division 2 since 2017, despite a relegation scare earlier this year.

This year was not the first in which they strung together multiple wins in the qualifiers, their 2016 run brought them to Croke Park where Kerry proved too strong in the All-Ireland quarter-finals.

Although Collins has been ever-present, there have been several alterations to the make-up of his management. Ger Keane provided some continuity from O’Dwyer’s year in charge, staying on as a selector for two years, ex Cork footballer Paudie Kissane was coach in 2014 and succeeded by fellow Rebel, Ephie Fitzgerald. Mick Bohan as coach was key to Clare’s progression in 2016 but only had a one year involvement with the senior squad. David O’Brien replaced Keane as selector that year and also spent two years in the post.

New additions were made to the 2017 selection team, Galway coach Alan Flynn came on board in Bohan’s absence with Evan Shanahan and Declan Downes joining as selectors. They all remained in situ for 2018 but Flynn later departed having been snapped up

by Kildare boss Cian O’Neill, Downes would also step down last year with Shanahan still a part of the setup.

A senior player from 2004 until 2016, Enda Coughlan joined the management following O’Brien’s departure and has now done two seasons. UL lecturer Brian Carson became the fifth coach in Collins’ six years. Coughlan and Shanahan would complete the management alongside goalkeeper coach Declan O’Keeffe who took on the role in 2019.

SPORT

THURSDAY, JUL 11 2019

35

‘Missed opportunity’ Tipp pile on the pressure

I

N THE days prior to Clare’s clash versus Meath for a place in the Super 8s, the county’s only All-Star Seamus Clancy said in The Irish Examiner of Gary Brennan, “I would say he is the greatest player that Clare has ever produced”. However, Gary was self-critical when speaking to reporters mentioning two wides as opposed to an incredible first half which included a turnover that led to a super Jamie’s Malone score, his own point, assists and leadership.

“It was there for us. The immediate reaction is a missed opportunity, I’ll be haunted by two wides in the first half, I was through on goal and fisted over the bar, today was a day to rattle the net with that I think. We battled, we dug in and we gave it everything as we always

do, ultimately we’ve come up short again”.

Their inability to keep the scoreboard ticking in the second half proved damaging according to the Clondegad man player. “We got a bit of fortune with our own goal and then let them straight back down for another one, that was a killer but we were back in the game, we kept plugging away we just weren’t creating as many scoring opportunities in the second half ”.

Missing out on the Super 8s was not the cause of the heartbreak but rather losing out in a tie that was there for the taking. “Regardless of the Super 8s it would be just winning the game. It’s another game that we had and let slip”.

7-point defeat for minor hurlers CLARE’S minor hurlers have suffered back to back defeats for the first time this year after losing our to Kilkenny on a scoreline of 2-14 to 0-13 at Semple Stadium, Thurles.

A draw next weekend would now suffice for Kilkenny in their bid to qualify for the All-Ireland MHC semi-finals. Clare will be back in action in two weeks when they face off with Galway.

Clare: Aaron Shanahan (Tulla); Storm Devanney (Sixmilebridge), Adam Hogan (Feakle), Cillian McGroary (Corofin); Jarlath Collins (Éire Óg), Cian Galvin (0-03 3f Clarecastle), Tony Butler (St Josephs Doora/Barefield); Colm O’Meara (0-01 Clonlara), Oisin Clune (Feakle); Killian O’Connor (0-01 Corofin), Conner Hegarty (0-04, Inagh/Kilnamona),Oisin O’Donnell (0-01 Crusheen); Dylan Downes (Sixmilebridge), Shane Meehan (0-03 2f Banner), Diarmaid Cahill (Corofin).

Subs: Shane Punch (Ruan) for Cahill (45), Cormac Murphy (O’Callaghans Mills) for Clune (45), Sean Ronan (Kilmaley) for Downes (48), Keith Smyth (Killanena) for Collins (55), Callum Beirne (Clooney/Quin) for Butler (59)

Munster Championship Round 3 Tipperary 2-12 Clare 1-07 @ O’Garney Park, Sixmilebridge PÁRAIC McMAHON

C

LARE fell to their second defeat in three games losing by eight points to Tipperary in the Liberty Insurance All-Ireland Senior Camogie Championship on Saturday evening.

A goal from Eilibhis McDonnell in the opening ten minutes assisted Tipperary in getting an early foothold on proceedings in Sixmilebridge. During this spell, the visitors had 1-04 on the board with Clare’s account consisting of a Fiona Lafferty point from play and a Chloe Morey free.

Liz Dempsey awarded Clare a penalty and a glimmer of hope on twenty minutes when Lafferty was brought down, the subsequent shot was expertly dispatched to the net by Morey to reduce the deficit to two points.

Two Orlaith Duggan points on either side of a Cait Devane white flag left Clare within a point of Tipperary at the break.

Five points in succession saw the Premier County regain their dominance and undo the hosts’ hard work at the conclusion of the opening half.

Morey would convert two frees

Understanding your club path

T

HE most important key to hitting more consistent straighter golf shots is understanding what your current club path is.

The two main club paths are known as in-to-out when the path of your club is travelling to the right of the target and also outto-in when the path of your club is travelling to the left of the target for a right handed golfer. To hit more fairways and greens you need to try keep your clubpath within 2° of either of the two main clubpaths out-to-in or in-to-out. If you manage to keep the majority of your swing paths more neutral, like in the centre club path inside-square-inside or within a path of only 2° with a fairly neutral face, then regardless of which path you are swinging on you will hit shots closer to your target with little or no curvature.

Today I brought my Flightscope to the driving range to see what my current clubpath is with every club in my bag and I discovered with every

shot I hit my clubpath was out-to-in somewhere between 1.0°L - 1.5°L (club swinging to the left of target). Once I understood this then I worked on trying to get my clubpath to travel more to the right (in-to-out) until I got it to around 1.0°R (club travelling to the right of target) and immediately I started to notice my divots were not as deep. I also noticed my strike at impact felt much more solid and my ball flight was lower and more penetrating as well as having less curvature.

Obviously in order to find a neutral clubpath you must also work on your alignment, both your clubface and your body alignment (feet and shoulder alignment). Your clubpath mainly follows the same path your shoulders are aligned on, therefore aiming your shoulders too far to the left or right of your target at address will really effect the path of your golf club.

Working on your body alignment is as important if not more important than hitting thousands of golf swings trying to perfect your clubpath. Imagine your swinging your golf club on a perfect plane in relation to your shoulder alignment, but on the golf course your shoulders are aiming 5° off line, then although you are swinging really well, simply because of your poor shoulder alignment you will not hit many fairways or greens.

Generally golfers blame their swings for every poor shot they hit, but the majority of the time it is poor alignment that is the cause for these inconsistent shots. So don’t ignore working on your alignment get yourself a set of alignment sticks and play a few holes using these alignment sticks for every shot and you will begin to learn if it is in fact poor alignment that is causing your clubpath to constantly travel to the right or to the left of your target.

Work on improving your alignment and neutralising your clubpath and you will hit a lot more fairways and greens in regulation for the remainder of the golfing season.

in the second half but Tipperary upped the ante with Devane firing over several frees and McDonnell raided for another green flag in the closing stages to give them their second win of the campaign.

For Clare the defeat is of concern and not just because of the result. Tipperary’s preparation for the game was questionable at best, just last week Bill Mullaney was forced to step down as manager for health reasons. His departure came as a shock sending ripples through the squad, fortunately for them selectors Niamh Lillis, Dinny Ferncombe, Carmel Bradshaw, Eddie Costello and Cian Treacy are able to remain in situ for the senior and intermediate sides.

The run-in to this game was far smoother for the Banner but it did not show on the field. They finished the game with only three scorers and just three points from play in sixty minutes. Despite the months of work invested in the setup, it is both baffling and distressing how the Clare management are unable to put their players in their best positions.

Ger O’Connell’s side have two

PGA Golf Professional

l TOP SCORER: Chloe Morey

Photo by Caroline O’Keeffe more games to play, travelling to both Waterford and Dublin needing a win in both outings to keep their hopes of making the knockout stages alive.

Earlier in the day, Clare’s Junior side lost their opening game by a point against Roscommon. FT: Roscommon 2-08 Clare 0-13.

Clare Scorers: Chloe Morey (1-4, 4f 1’Pen), Orlaith Duggan (0-2), Fiona Lafferty (0-1).

Clare: Sarah Loughnane (Sixmilebridge); Laura McMahon (Newmarket-on-Fergus), Clare Hehir (Inagh/Kilnamona), Ciara Doyle (Scariff/Ogonnelloe); Michelle Caulfield (Truagh/Clonlara), Alannah Ryan (Kilkishen), Teresa O’Keeffe (Inagh/Kilnamona); Amy Barrett (Scariff/Ogonnelloe), Roisin Begley (Truagh/Clonlara); Orlaith Duggan (Clooney/Quin), Andrea O’Keeffe (Inagh/ Kilnamona), Niamh Corry (Sixmilebridge); Fiona Lafferty (Inagh/Kilnamona), Eimear Kelly (Truagh/Clonlara), Chloe Morey (Sixmilebridge).

Referee: Liz Dempsey (Kilkenny) Referee: Alan Kelly (Galway).

#PadraigKnowsGolf

Padraig McGrath

GOLF ANALYSIS

The Scorecard in association with

EAST CLARE GOLF CLUB Ladies Singles 1st Bernie Cox 39pts 2nd Joan Kinsella 37pts 3rd Noreen Doyle 36pts Men’s Seniors V Ballinasloe 1st Nick Ryan/Jackie McHugh 2nd Jim Bradley / Aline McDonnell 3rd Joe Moloney/ Michael Drew Ladies Wednesday Open Team of Three 1st Mary Hogan ,Breda O Loughlin, Helen Downey 59pts 2nd Mary Beatty, Terry Mulvihill, Heather Cullen 55 pts Friday Scramble 1st Willie Roche, Bridget Minogue,Nuala. O Brien 2nd Jim Greene, Nancy Starr,Geraldine Macnamara, 3rd Tony McNulty, William McLysaght,Mary Jo Minogue ENNIS GOLF CLUB Ladies Results Seniors Tuesday July 2nd 1st Carmel Verling, Nuala D’Auria & Liz Kelly 51.16 2nd Phil Butler, Anne White & Mary Rowe 52.3 3rd Mary Murray, Kate O’Ceallaigh &

Jean Moloney 53.16 Eileen Murphy Trophy 2019 1st Rose Enright & Geraldine O’Rourke 38pts 2nd Mary Walshe & Bridie Keane 36pts 3rd Ethna Murphy & Betty O’Reilly 35pts 4th Maeve Hoey & Kate Keohane 35pts KILRUSH GOLF & SPORTS CLUB Joe Whelan Singles 02/07/19 Shane Lillis (3) 43 Pts PW Glynn (35) 42 Pts Michael McNamara (18) 40 CSS = 69, 37 pts Stapleford Saint Gobain 03/07/19 1 Noel Kilkenny (18) 67 2 Tom O’Dea (35) 67 (Back 9) 3 Pat 68 (Back 9) Thu 04 July 2019 Ladies Open Singles, AMR 1 Olivia McCarthy (21) 40 pts 2 Maureen Sweeney (24) 39 pts 3 Nicola O’Leary (26) 38 pts 4 Joan O’Malley (20) 37 pts 5 Miriam Saunders (25) 37 pts (Back 6) Cat 1 Geraldine Burke (17) 36 pts Cat 2 Mary McNamara (19) 34 pts Cat 3 Anne Hogan (32) 34 pts

36 www.clareecho.ie Months Mind Mass Duff. Conor

(1 Fitzhaven, South Circular Road, Limerick formerly of Tullyglass Court Shannon ) - 8th June 2019 Conor’s months mind will be celebrated at mass on Sunday July 14th in St Joseph’s church, O’Connell Ave, Limerick.

At 5.30 pm all are welcome.

THURSDAY, JULY 11 2019

Classifieds ACCOUNTANCY

CAR REPAIRS

CLEANING

We hold you close within our hearts and there you shall remain, to walk with us throughout our lives until we meet again.

So Rest In Peace Conor.

Always remembered

FOR SALE Good quality topsoil for sale in Ennis area Contact 087-6723362

CARS

CLEANING

THURSDAY, JULY 11 2019

Classifieds The Clare Echo Classifieds

PAINTING

STORAGE

Contact 065 671 9021 PAINTING

The Clare Echo Classifieds Contact 065 671 9021

SUMMER CAMPS

ROOFING

TYRES

CLASSIFIEDS 37 CONTACT SALES

065 671 9021 sales@clareecho.ie

TARMACADAM

Game (http://puzzles.bestforpuzzles.com)

› Word › Best Daily Word Se… (http://puzzles.bestforpuzzles.com/category/word/)

38 PUZZLEPAGE Best Daily Word Search

THURSDAY, JULY 11 2019

THIS WEEKS PUZZLES JULY 11

Best Daily Word Search: 5 July 2019

WORD SEARCH

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CROSSWORD ANSWERS S

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31

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QUIZ 39

THURSDAY, JULY 11 2019

The Clare Echo Quiz WILLIE CLANCY

2

Which instrument did Clancy pick 7 up at the age of five? a.

The flute

3

Which county did Willie Clancy 8 pass away in? a. Galway

In Which coastal town was Willie Clancy born? a. Lahnich b. Ennistymon c.

Miltown Malbay

Willie Clancy was most renowned for his mastery of which traditional instrument? a.

Uillean Pipes b.

The Banjo c.

The Fiddle

4

Which city did Willie Clancy emigrate to due to lack of work? a. Dublin b. Manchester c. London

Whilst abroad Clancy worked at 5 what trade before returning to Ireland? a. Carpenter b. Bricklayer c. Electrician

Clancy won the national 6Willie Oireachtas competition in which

b. c.

The tin whistle The fiddle

b. Clare c. Limerick

The name Miltown Malbay de9 rives from which meaning? a.

Small bay b. c.

year?

Small pool Treacherous coast

Which of the following teams is 10 not home to Miltown Malbay? a.

Clonbony GAA b. c.

l QUESTION 1: The Willie Clancy Summer School was established in which

Moy GAA Doonbeg GAA

ANSWERS 6. 1947 7. The tin whistle 8. Galway 9. Treacherous coast 10. Doonbeg GAA

b. 1973 c. 1975

year? a. 1937 b. 1947 c. 1957

1. 1973 2. Miltown Malbay 3.Uillean Pipes 4.London 5. Carpenter

The Willie Clancy Summer School 1a. 1968 was established in which year?

by Cian O’Broin

OLD IMAGES OF COUNTY CLARE

Eviction scene, Co. Clare

Image NLI.ie / Collection: The Lawrence Photograph Collection